Suzano S.A.(US:SUZ)2025-08-07 13:30Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported that sales, operational cash generation, and EBITDA were in line with expectations for the quarter [10][11] - Net debt remained stable at $13 billion, with net leverage increasing to 3.1 times due to a reduction in last twelve month EBITDA to $4.2 billion [28][29] - Cash costs declined compared to the first quarter, driven by stronger operational performance and lower fixed costs [25][26] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Brazilian operations saw stronger sales volumes and lower costs compared to Q1, with EBITDA growth year-over-year [12][13] - U.S. operations experienced a 3% price increase quarter-over-quarter, driven by product mix and better commercial location [13] - The paper and packaging business in the U.S. is expected to deliver positive EBITDA in Q3, with lower costs and higher production volumes anticipated [16][58] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Brazil, print and write demand rose 6% year-over-year, with domestic sales also increasing by 6% [14] - Uncoated wood free paper demand remained stable in North America and Latin America but declined by 10% in Europe [14] - The U.S. market for boxboard demand was stable, while demand for SBS boards increased by 1% [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on competitiveness and cost reduction, with an emphasis on executing existing deals rather than pursuing new M&A initiatives [10][11] - A deal with Eldorado is expected to provide an internal return of around 20%, allowing for increased production at the Ribba's mill without significant investment [6][42] - The company plans to maintain a focus on deleveraging and improving operational competitiveness [10][88] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the cash cost trend is expected to continue decreasing in the upcoming quarters [10][25] - The company is monitoring market dynamics closely, particularly in light of recent price corrections and supply-demand imbalances [22][72] - Management expressed confidence in the recovery of order intake in China and the potential for price increases due to supply constraints [22][23] Other Important Information - The company has built inventories in the U.S. to mitigate the impact of 50% import duties imposed by the U.S. government [17] - The company is planning to redirect the majority of its exports from the U.S. to other regions [17] - The company maintains a healthy amortization schedule with more than six years of average maturity [28] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the changing dynamics in the pulp scenario that allowed for the $20 price increase for Asia? - Management noted high order intake levels in China since June, indicating a supportive market environment for price increases [32][34] Question: Can you elaborate on the internal rate of return of the deal with Eldorado? - The internal rate of return is expected to be around 20%, driven by optimized harvesting and reduced operational costs [40][42] Question: What is the expected normalized production level if pulp prices remain below $550 per ton? - The company has a detailed analysis on production costs and has decided to reduce production to maintain profitability [46][47] Question: What are the main opportunities identified in the U.S. packaging market? - The company is expanding its market reach and has seen significant growth in cup stock sales, indicating strong opportunities for profitability [60] Question: How are negotiations regarding the 10% tariff on U.S. exports going? - The company successfully negotiated that customers will bear the 10% tariff, ensuring that Suzano will not absorb this cost [97] Question: What is the status of the Kimberly Clark acquisition? - Dedicated teams have been established to plan the carve-out of the new joint venture, with the project progressing as planned [98]