Ternium(TX) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Ternium's EBITDA margin reached 10% in 2025, supported by a cost reduction program that generated $250 million in savings compared to 2024 [4] - Net income for the fourth quarter totaled $171 million, impacted by one-time charges related to an impairment in one of its mining operations [13][14] - Cash generated by operations reached $2.3 billion in 2025, allowing the company to finance capital expenditures [18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The steel segment experienced a decline in shipments due to weaker volumes in the US and Brazil, but higher volumes in Mexico partially offset this decline [15] - Mining cash operating income increased sequentially, driven by stronger shipments and higher realized iron ore prices [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Apparent consumption of steel in Mexico decreased by 10% in 2025, with flat products consumption down 14% compared to 2024 [23] - The Mexican government raised import tariffs on steel from 25% to 35%, aiming to protect local producers [5][9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Ternium is focusing on enhancing operational efficiency and reducing costs while expanding its footprint in Mexico with new facilities [8][11] - The company is optimistic about profitability improvements in 2026, driven by cost reductions and favorable trade policies [10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted the importance of ongoing trade negotiations in North America and expressed confidence in reaching a mutually beneficial agreement [10][11] - The company is cautious about the timing of the USMCA renewal, projecting it may not significantly impact 2026 but could be more relevant in 2027 [24][25] Other Important Information - Ternium secured a $1.25 billion loan through a green financing facility to support its new projects, which received several awards for sustainability [8][9] - The company proposed an annual dividend of $2.7 per ADS for fiscal year 2025, maintaining the same level as 2024, reflecting confidence in future prospects [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Outlook for the Mexican market and demand recovery - Management noted that demand in Mexico was significantly low in 2025, with expectations for a 4% market growth in 2026, driven by local steel mills gaining market share [23][24] Question: Impact of anti-dumping measures in Brazil - Management indicated that the impact of anti-dumping measures would be gradual, with expectations for a moderate increase in domestic prices [22][26] Question: Ternium's plan if USMCA is not renewed - Management stated that they operated in 2025 without a renewed USMCA and would continue to adapt to the environment, focusing on market share gains [30][34] Question: Volume expectations for 2026 - Management expects volume increases in Mexico, with a recovery in Argentina anticipated in the second half of the year, while Brazil is expected to maintain healthy volume levels [35][36] Question: Margin potential without USMCA changes - Management expressed that they expect to enhance margins in 2026, aiming for a return to the 15%-20% range, but acknowledged that this would depend on market conditions [40][44] Question: Capital allocation priorities - Management confirmed that both increasing dividends and exploring growth opportunities in key markets are priorities, with no immediate plans for share buybacks [87]