IMCD NV (IMCDY) Q3 2024 Earnings Call Highlights: Strong EBITA Growth Amid Market Volatility

In This Article:

  • Revenue: EUR3.6 billion for the first nine months of 2024.

  • Operating EBITA: EUR403 million, a 3% increase on a constant currency basis.

  • Gross Profit: EUR303 million in Q3, a 13% growth on a constant currency basis.

  • Gross Margin: Increased to 25.4% of revenue.

  • Free Cash Flow: EUR65 million decrease compared to last year.

  • Cash Conversion Margin: 73%, lower than the previous year.

  • Working Capital Days: Increased from 66 to 68 days.

  • Full-Time Employees: 7% increase, primarily due to acquisitions.

  • EMEA Operating EBITA: EUR186 million, a 1% increase.

  • Americas Gross Margin: Increased from 24.1% to 24.7%.

  • Asia Pacific Gross Margin: Decreased from 23.3% to 22.3% due to acquisitions.

  • Net Debt: Increased by EUR300 million.

  • Leverage Ratio: 2.8 times EBITA, below the maximum level of 4.25.

Release Date: November 08, 2024

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.

Positive Points

  • IMCD NV (IMCDY) reported a 13% EBITA growth on a constant currency basis in Q3 2024, driven by both acquisitions and organic growth.

  • The company strengthened its position across all operating segments and regions through 12 acquisitions year-to-date.

  • IMCD NV (IMCDY) achieved organic gross margin and EBITA growth in all three regions, with notable growth in the Americas and Asia.

  • The company maintained a healthy M&A pipeline and continued its digital investments and sustainability programs.

  • IMCD NV (IMCDY) reported a 7% increase in ForEx adjusted revenue and an 8% increase in gross profit compared to the previous year.

Negative Points

  • The company faces ongoing market volatility with limited visibility beyond six weeks due to low inventory levels and just-in-time orders from customers.

  • Free cash flow decreased by EUR65 million compared to last year, with a lower cash conversion margin of 73%.

  • The working capital investment increased, primarily driven by higher business activity, leading to a slight increase in working capital days.

  • The conversion margin decreased to 44.3%, which is 2.5% below the previous year.

  • IMCD NV (IMCDY) remains cautious with predictions due to the volatile environment and changing geopolitical landscape.

Q & A Highlights

Q: Typically, Q4 is weaker than Q3 due to seasonality. Do you see any reason for a different trend this year? A: Hans Kooijmans, CFO: Q4 is indeed usually lighter and difficult to predict due to factors like factory closings and stock replenishment timing. Currently, customers are cautious, preferring just-in-time deliveries. Historically, December is weaker, but it helps reduce working capital. We are positive about October but remain cautious for the rest of the year.