Titan International(TWI) - 2025 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Titan International reported revenues of $461 million for Q2 2025, with adjusted EBITDA of $30 million, and positive cash flow of $4 million [20][27] - Gross margins improved by 100 basis points sequentially to 15%, driven by product mix [20][21] - Year-over-year gross margins decreased from 16% to 15% when adjusting for the previous year's inventory step-up [21][24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Agricultural segment gross margin increased to 14.6% from 12.4% in Q1 [21] - EMC segment gross margin rose to 11.5% from 10.4% in Q1 [21] - Consumer segment gross margin improved to 20.4% from 19.6% in Q1 [21] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Demand in Europe remained flat, while Brazil showed better performance due to localized manufacturing [16][19] - The consumer segment was significantly impacted by tariffs, leading to cautious purchasing behavior [17][18] - Farmers expressed concerns over high financing costs, which hindered large equipment purchases [14][13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Titan is focusing on a one-stop-shop strategy, enhancing customer service through a broad product portfolio [10][12] - The company is actively pursuing partnerships, including a minority investment in Brazilian wheel manufacturer Roderos to penetrate the Brazilian market [12][72] - Titan aims to leverage its U.S.-based production to benefit from tariffs on imports, enhancing its competitive position [8][9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the macro environment remains challenging, with cautious behavior from OEMs and consumers due to interest rates and trade policies [6][7] - There is optimism for a rebound in demand as inventory levels have dropped too low, particularly in the consumer segment [35][36] - Management expects an uptick in market conditions in 2026, contingent on interest rate reductions and tariff resolutions [67][68] Other Important Information - The company is managing costs effectively while preparing to ramp up production when demand increases [15][19] - Titan's net debt decreased by $10 million to $401 million, with expectations to exit the year with a debt ratio closer to three times adjusted EBITDA [23][24] - The effective tax rate for Q2 was over 100%, influenced by geographic profit distribution [24] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on Q3 sales and EBITDA expectations - Management indicated that Q3 sales could be similar to Q2, but EBITDA might decline by 10% to 15% due to seasonal shutdowns and product mix changes [28][29] Question: Outlook for the agricultural sector in the U.S. - Management noted a cautious tone in the U.S. agricultural sector, with OEMs waiting for improved farmer orders before increasing production [32][33] Question: Impact of tax and NOLs on valuation - Management confirmed the presence of NOLs that could affect valuation allowances if market conditions do not improve, but cash taxes have remained stable [38][39] Question: Details on the investment in Roderos - The initial investment in Roderos is $4 million for a 20% stake, with potential for future increases [72][109] Question: Customer inquiries about capacity for 2026 - Customers have begun asking about Titan's capacity for 2026, indicating confidence in Titan's position for future demand [111][112]