Howmet Aerospace(US:HWM)2025-10-30 15:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Q3 2025 revenue growth accelerated to 14%, up from 8% in the first half of the year [6] - EBITDA increased by 26%, and operating income rose by 29% [6] - Cash flow was strong at $423 million after capital expenditures of $108 million [6] - Earnings per share increased by over 34% to $0.95 [7] - Net leverage improved to 1.1 times net debt to EBITDA [7] - Free cash flow guidance for 2025 was raised to $1.3 billion [22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Commercial Aerospace revenue grew by 15%, with parts sales up 38% and total spares increasing by 31% [6][9] - Defense Aerospace revenue rose by 24%, driven by a 33% increase in engine spares [9] - Commercial Transportation faced challenges, with revenue down 3% and wheels volume down 16% [10] - Industrial and other markets saw an 18% increase, with oil and gas up 33% and IGT up 23% [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue from end markets was up 14% [9] - The backlog for new, more fuel-efficient aircraft remains strong, contributing to commercial aerospace growth [9] - Demand for defense sales is steady, particularly for F-35 aircraft and legacy fighter jets [18] - The industrial gas turbine market is experiencing strong growth, particularly in the context of data center buildouts [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on expanding its manufacturing footprint with new plants and extensions, particularly in the engines business [20] - Investments in technology and automation are expected to enhance productivity and margins [68] - The company aims to convert 90% of net income into free cash flow while maintaining high capital expenditures for growth [34] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The outlook for air travel and aircraft demand remains positive, with expectations for continued growth in aftermarket parts [18] - The company anticipates revenue of approximately $9 billion for 2026, reflecting a 10% year-on-year increase [21] - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate challenges related to tariffs and raw material costs [60] Other Important Information - The company repurchased $200 million of common stock in Q3, with a total of $600 million year-to-date [6][14] - A 20% increase in quarterly dividends was announced, reflecting strong cash generation [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on technology investments and competitive landscape in turbines and industrial gas turbines - Management highlighted the extraordinary demand for electricity due to data center buildouts and the need for reliable power supply [29][31] - The company is investing in advanced turbine technologies to meet growing demand and improve efficiency [36][38] Question: Expectations for end market growth and margin incrementals - Management indicated that commercial aerospace is expected to see stronger growth in 2026, with a mid-single-digit increase in defense sales [45][46] - Incremental margins were reported to be healthy, with expectations for continued strong performance [78] Question: Impact of tariffs and raw material pricing on guidance - Management noted that the net effect of tariffs remains minimal, around $5 million, and is not expected to significantly impact operations [60] Question: Future outlook for Howmet and its growth trajectory - Management expressed optimism about the company's growth potential, driven by technology investments and operational improvements [67][70]