Flowserve(FLS) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported bookings of $1.2 billion for the quarter, representing a sequential increase of over $130 million and a 1% growth compared to the prior year [4] - Adjusted gross margins increased by 240 basis points to 34.8%, while adjusted operating margins rose to 14.8%, driven by incremental margins of 115% during the quarter [3][16] - Adjusted earnings per share was $0.90, marking a 45% increase compared to the same period last year [3] - The company raised its adjusted EPS guidance range for the second time this year to $3.40 to $3.50, reflecting a 31% increase from last year and over 60% from 2023 [2][25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The aftermarket segment continued to perform strongly, with bookings exceeding $600 million for the sixth consecutive quarter, and two of the last three quarters seeing bookings above $650 million [4][29] - The FTD segment experienced a 24% growth in bookings and a 7% increase in sales, with adjusted operating margins expanding by 230 basis points [18] - Excluding engineered pump original equipment bookings, the remaining portfolio saw an impressive 9% growth in bookings [6] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The power market, particularly nuclear, showed strong growth, with over $140 million in nuclear bookings, a record for the company [5] - Mining project activity increased over 60% compared to last year, indicating a positive trend in that sector [8] - The chemical market remains the lowest growth area, although there were signs of improvement in North America [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on driving sustainable growth, expanding margins, and enhancing cash flow, with a commitment to delivering superior value for shareholders [14][25] - The Flowserve business system is being leveraged to drive margin expansion and operational excellence, with the 80/20 complexity reduction program showing early benefits [20][25] - The company is strategically positioned to capitalize on the growing nuclear market, with expectations of significant growth opportunities in the next decade [12][51] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the aftermarket business, citing strong refinery and chemical plant utilization as key growth drivers [29] - The project environment is seen as constructive, with expectations for growth in power and nuclear markets, despite some delays in larger engineered projects [31] - The geopolitical and macro environment needs to stabilize for operators to gain confidence in project investments, but overall sentiment for 2026 and beyond is positive [32] Other Important Information - The company announced a divestment of legacy asbestos liabilities, which is expected to simplify capital structure and improve annual cash flow by $15 million to $20 million [24][56] - Cash from operations for the quarter was $402 million, with a free cash flow conversion rate of 174% when excluding the merger termination payment [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide context on the operating environment and pipeline? - Management noted strong aftermarket performance and a shift in focus from large engineered projects to a more resilient business model, with expectations for continued growth in power and nuclear sectors [29][31] Question: How is pricing in the marketplace? - Pricing has remained sticky, with successful price increases implemented in the U.S. market, and the company is focused on maintaining a positive price-cost balance [34][37] Question: Can you elaborate on the margin improvements in FTD? - The integration of MOGAS has been successful, contributing positively to margins, and the company is optimistic about future growth opportunities in the FTD segment [41][45] Question: What is the expected market share for the nuclear flow control opportunity? - The company has a strong position in the nuclear market, with content in 75% of existing reactors and expectations to maintain or grow market share in upcoming projects [49][85] Question: What are the cash flow implications of the asbestos transaction? - The transaction is expected to enhance cash flow by $15 million to $20 million annually, simplifying capital allocation and reducing volatility [56][72]