Emerson(US:EMR)2026-02-03 22:32Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Emerson's underlying sales growth was 2% year-over-year, with adjusted segment EBITDA margin at 27.7% and adjusted earnings per share at $1.46, reflecting a 6% increase year-over-year [10][19][24] - The backlog ended the quarter at $7.9 billion, up 9% year-over-year, with a book-to-bill ratio of 1.13 [19][63] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Software and systems reported a 3% underlying sales growth, driven by test and measurement, which grew 11% [19][23] - Intelligent devices grew 2%, while safety and productivity increased by 1% [19][24] - Ovation business saw a significant increase of 74% in orders, driven by large project wins [14][40] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America orders were up 18%, with strong performance in power and LNG sectors [38][97] - The Middle East and Africa experienced a 9% growth, while Europe and China showed ongoing softness [14][38][75] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Emerson aims to return $10 billion to shareholders through share repurchase and dividends, with a focus on organic growth and operational excellence [7][11] - The company is aligned with secular tailwinds such as electrification, energy security, and nearshoring, expecting these to drive growth over the next three years [5][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving 2026 targets, supported by a good start to the year and operational excellence [10][11] - The company anticipates continued strong demand in North America, India, and the Middle East, while acknowledging challenges in Europe and China [14][75] Other Important Information - Emerson was named the 2026 Industrial IoT Company of the Year, highlighting its leadership in industrial IoT technology [11] - The company released DeltaV version 16, enhancing its software-defined automation vision [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you break down the 9% order growth in Q1 between process and hybrid? - Management noted that power orders were driven by modernization and behind-the-meter power generating capacity at data centers, with significant growth in test and measurement orders [34][36][40] Question: What is the expected impact of AI on software growth? - Management believes AI capabilities will accelerate growth in software offerings, with minimal disruption expected [41][43] Question: Are the orders in power pushing beyond this year into multi-year phases? - Management confirmed confidence in backlog timing supporting sales into 2027, particularly in power and LNG sectors [46][47] Question: What is the outlook for weak verticals like chemicals? - Management indicated continued flat activity in Europe, particularly in chemicals, with a bearish outlook for China [75][76] Question: What is the opportunity in Venezuela? - Management acknowledged a long-established history in Venezuela and plans to mobilize for potential growth, particularly in power generation [104][106] Question: Any updates on tariffs and mitigation activity? - Management reported some positive developments regarding tariffs, particularly with China, while noting challenges with Mexico [115] Question: What are the green shoots in China? - Management highlighted good activity in the test and measurement space and broad portfolio business, despite overall softness [117]