ESCO Technologies(US:ESE)2025-08-07 22:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - ESCO Technologies reported a strong quarter with nearly 27% sales growth on a reported basis and 11% organic growth, excluding the Maritime acquisition [17] - Adjusted EBIT margins increased from 19.3% last year to 21.1% in this year's third quarter, while adjusted earnings per share rose by 25% to $1.6 per share [17][18] - The company ended Q3 with a record backlog of nearly $1,200 million, reflecting a significant increase in orders [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Aerospace and Defense segment saw revenue up almost 20% in the quarter and 15% year-to-date, with a reported growth of 56% and 14% organically, driven by significant orders for Virginia and Columbia class submarines [10][19] - The Utility Solutions Group experienced flat sales growth but strong order momentum, with a 5.5% increase in orders during the quarter [20][21] - The Test business achieved a 21% revenue growth over the prior year, with year-to-date revenue up by 15% [12][23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The macroeconomic environment remains complicated due to evolving trade policies and geopolitical uncertainties, but the company has managed to mitigate impacts and deliver strong operating results [8] - The US renewables market is recalibrating post-legislation, but long-term demand drivers for electricity remain intact, including data centers and electrification of transportation [11][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The completion of the Maritime acquisition and VACCO divestiture marks a significant step in executing the company's portfolio strategy, focusing on the navy and aircraft markets [5][6] - The company is optimistic about long-term growth in the aerospace and navy markets, expecting increased production rates to drive future growth [9][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the ability to manage potential future risks associated with tariffs and highlighted the strong performance of the core business [8][31] - The company raised its full-year guidance, projecting over 20% adjusted EPS growth compared to the prior year [13][29] Other Important Information - The company noted that the integration of Maritime into the ESCO portfolio is ongoing and requires considerable focus from the organization [6][7] - Strong operating cash flow results were reported, with favorable working capital performance compared to the previous year [26] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on A&D orders for Globe - Management indicated no significant changes in the order pipeline for Globe and requested patience for future details [36][37] Question: Margin progression in A&D - Management reported strong margins driven by good price flow through and favorable material costs, with a positive outlook for future quarters [39][40][41] Question: Increase in outlook for revenue and earnings - Management attributed the increase to strong performance in the Test business and incremental volume in A&D, offset by some weakness in the NRG business [48][50] Question: Impact of VACCO in 2026 - Management discussed the transition to discontinued operations for VACCO and expressed optimism about growth in A&D and Maritime segments [53][54] Question: Pace of naval deliveries - Management expects an increase in the pace of deliveries, influenced by both US and UK naval dynamics [55][56] Question: USG margins and Doble performance - Management acknowledged a temporary dip in margins due to timing of sales but remains positive about the long-term outlook [65][66] Question: Impact of recent treaty on nuclear subs - Management viewed the treaty as a positive development for the business and expressed confidence in the investments made in the Royal Navy and UK shipbuilding [71][73]