Mark Reichman, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Natural Resources, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
Second quarter financial results. For the fiscal year (FY) 2025, AZZ reported second quarter adjusted net income of $41.3 million or $1.37 per share compared to $37.2 million or $1.27 per share during the prior year period and our estimate of $40.8 million or $1.35 per share. AZZ maintained its FY 2025 sales guidance range of $1.525 billion to $1.625 billion, lifted the lower end of adjusted EBITDA to a range of $320 million (from $310 million) to $360 million, and increased adjusted diluted EPS expectations to a range of $4.70 to $5.10 from $4.50 to $5.00.
Updating estimates. We have lowered our 2025 EBITDA and EPS estimates to $343.0 million and $4.95, respectively, from $350.3 million and $5.00. Our estimates reflect seasonality in the second half of the year. Our 2026 EBITDA and EPS estimates have been reduced to $361.2 million and $5.45, respectively, from $366.8 million and $5.70. Our 2026 estimates reflect a slower ramp in revenue from the new facility under construction in Washington, Missouri.
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*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision.
Joe Gomes, CFA, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Generalist , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Joshua Zoepfel, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
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A New Plan. Yesterday, after the market closed, Steelcase filed an 8-k with the Securities & Exchange Commission reporting the Company has entered into a stock repurchase agreement with an independent third party broker. The agreement was established in accordance with Rule 10b5-1 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. We believe share repurchases are a good use of excess cash on the balance sheet at current prices.
Details. The broker is authorized to repurchase up to 1.5 million shares of the Company’s common stock on behalf of the Company during the period from October 11, 2024 through December 20, 2024, subject to certain price, market and volume constraints specified in the agreement. At yesterday’s closing price, acquiring the shares would cost approximately $19 million and the 1.5 million shares represent approximately 1.6% of the outstanding Class A shares. The Company has $79.9 million remaining under its $100 million share repurchase plan authorization.
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Key Points: – Upstream Bio raised $255 million to fund advanced trials for its respiratory disease drug verekitug, achieving a valuation of $830 million. – Ceribell raised $180 million to further develop its AI-powered EEG platform, focusing on diagnosing serious neurological conditions. – CAMP4 Therapeutics raised $75 million to continue its work in gene expression therapies, pricing its IPO below expectations at $11 per share.
Three biotech companies priced their initial public offerings (IPOs) on Thursday, securing substantial funding to advance their innovative therapies and technologies. The companies—Upstream Bio, Ceribell, and CAMP4 Therapeutics—collectively raised millions, with plans to use the proceeds for various clinical trials and product developments.
Upstream Bio: Raising $255 Million for Respiratory Therapies Upstream Bio led the day by raising $255 million, with its shares priced at the higher end of the expected range. Initially planning to sell 12.5 million shares between $15 and $17 each, the company increased the offering to 15 million shares due to high demand, pricing them near $17. This could further rise if underwriters exercise their option to purchase an additional 2.25 million shares. The company, which now has a valuation of around $830 million, will trade on the NASDAQ under the ticker symbol UPB.
Upstream Bio is using the capital to advance clinical trials for its lead drug, verekitug, which is being tested for severe asthma and chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps. The drug targets a receptor for thymic stromal lymphopoietin, a key player in inflammatory diseases. Proceeds will also help initiate a phase 3 trial for severe asthma.
Ceribell: Secures $180 Million for AI-Powered Neurological Diagnostics Ceribell, a commercial-stage medical technology company, raised $180 million through its IPO, with 10.6 million shares priced at $17 each, giving the company a valuation of $578 million. Like Upstream, Ceribell also granted underwriters the option to purchase additional shares—up to 1.6 million more. The company will trade on the NASDAQ under the symbol CBLL.
Ceribell specializes in AI-powered neurological diagnostic tools, notably its point-of-care electroencephalography (EEG) platform, designed to help in the diagnosis and management of critical neurological conditions. The technology is expected to revolutionize the way healthcare providers address neurological emergencies.
CAMP4 Therapeutics: Raises $75 Million Despite Pricing Below Expectations CAMP4 Therapeutics saw its IPO priced below expectations, at $11 per share, compared to an initial range of $14 to $16. Despite this, the company managed to sell 6.8 million shares, surpassing its original goal of 5 million, for total gross proceeds of $75 million. CAMP4 will begin trading on the NASDAQ under the ticker symbol CAMP.
CAMP4 focuses on regulatory RNA-targeting therapeutics, aiming to upregulate gene expression in genetic diseases. The proceeds will be used to further develop its drug pipeline, including its recent collaboration with BioMarin to target RNA sequences for therapeutic applications.
Key Points: – TD Bank has agreed to a $3 billion settlement with the DOJ after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering, the largest such plea by a U.S. bank. – The bank allowed $670 million in laundered funds to flow through its accounts over multiple years due to lapses in its anti-money laundering program. – TD is undergoing major reforms, with federal monitoring and restrictions in place, alongside additional penalties from the Federal Reserve Board and CFPB.
TD Bank has agreed to a $3 billion settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering, marking the largest such plea from a U.S. bank in history. The charges stem from TD’s failure to adequately address issues in its anti-money laundering program over multiple years, allowing significant illegal financial activity to take place. The Canadian-based bank, the 10th largest in the U.S., has committed to a series of reforms as part of the settlement, including a complete restructuring of its compliance operations.
Major Failures in Anti-Money Laundering Program
According to U.S. officials, TD Bank allowed $670 million in laundered funds to pass through its accounts from three separate networks. One case involved a single individual moving over $470 million in drug-related and other illegal proceeds. Another involved TD employees allegedly collaborating with criminal organizations to launder $39 million to Colombia. These significant failures in TD’s oversight system included transactions exceeding daily limits by over 50 times, without proper scrutiny.
Attorney General Merrick Garland emphasized that TD executives were warned of these issues but did not take corrective action in time. As a result, TD will undergo three years of federal monitoring and five years of probation to ensure the bank’s compliance improvements.
Reforms and Response from TD Bank
TD’s CEO Bharat Masrani expressed regret, stating that the bank accepts full responsibility for the lapses and is committed to fixing its anti-money laundering program. As part of its remediation efforts, TD has appointed new leadership and hired hundreds of specialists to address the compliance shortfalls. The bank has also admitted to failing to monitor $18.3 trillion in customer transactions over six years.
In addition to the settlement, the Federal Reserve Board imposed $124 million in fines earlier this week for violations related to anti-money laundering regulations. The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) will restrict TD’s growth until further notice, and the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) has imposed a four-year independent monitorship to oversee the bank’s efforts to prevent future violations.
Further Legal Consequences
Beyond corporate penalties, two TD employees have been prosecuted, along with two dozen other individuals involved in the laundering schemes. More prosecutions are expected as investigations continue. TD’s legal troubles extend beyond this case, as the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) recently fined the bank $28 million for providing inaccurate customer information to reporting agencies and failing to address these errors.
Brendan Shanahan Appointed Chief Financial Officer of GoHealth, Bringing Decades of Leadership in Healthcare and Financial Strategy
CHICAGO, October 10, 2024 /Globe Newswire/ — GoHealth, Inc. (NASDAQ: GOCO), a leading health insurance marketplace and Medicare-focused digital health company, today announced the appointment of Brendan Shanahan as Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective October 14, following a comprehensive search process. Mr. Shanahan, a seasoned executive with over 30 years of financial leadership experience and over 20 years of expertise in the Medicare Advantage space, will oversee GoHealth’s financial strategy and operations, contributing to the company’s profitable growth and innovation efforts.
“Brendan’s extensive expertise in financial strategy, M&A, operational leadership, and deep knowledge of the Medicare Advantage market makes him the ideal choice to lead GoHealth’s financial organization,” said Vijay Kotte, CEO of GoHealth. “His track record of driving financial performance, operational efficiency, and long-term value aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver outstanding results for shareholders.”
Mr Shanahan, who was also a licensed insurance agent, will manage all financial aspects of GoHealth, including financial planning, analysis, reporting, investor relations, and capital structure optimization. Additionally, he will provide leadership in financial risk management, business analytics, budgeting, audit, and tax compliance, to ensure GoHealth achieves both its short- and long-term financial goals.
Throughout his career, Mr. Shanahan has built high-performing finance teams, implemented systems to streamline financial operations, and played key roles in mergers and acquisitions. His leadership in financial strategy, including P&L oversight, cost containment, and capital management, has consistently delivered tangible results.
Mr. Shanahan holds an MBA in Banking and Finance from Hofstra University and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from The Citadel. He is also a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) (inactive) and a Chartered Global Management Accountant.
Mr. Shanahan expressed his excitement to join GoHealth, stating, “I’m thrilled to join GoHealth at such a pivotal time for the Medicare Advantage industry and the brokerage space. Having spent much of my career working to help individuals navigate their healthcare options, I am excited to continue that journey with GoHealth. The combination of GoHealth’s technology, deep expertise in Medicare, and commitment to empowering consumers is unparalleled. I look forward to working with Vijay and the team to capitalize on the significant opportunities ahead as we navigate this dynamic market and drive long-term value for shareholders.”
Katherine O’Halloran will remain as a key leader in the finance organization, continuing to serve as Chief Accounting Officer and reporting to the CFO. “We want to thank Katie for embracing with diligence her interim role as CFO and her commitment to managing GoHealth and the financial team through this transition. Katie is an extraordinary example of living our GoHealth values,” said Kotte.
About GoHealth, Inc.
GoHealth is a leading health insurance marketplace and Medicare-focused digital health company. Enrolling in a health insurance plan can be confusing for customers, and the seemingly small differences between plans can lead to significant out-of-pocket costs or lack of access to critical medicines and even providers. GoHealth combines cutting-edge technology, data science and deep industry expertise to build trusted relationships with consumers and match them with the healthcare policy and carrier that is right for them. Since its inception, GoHealth has enrolled millions of people in Medicare plans and individual and family plans. For more information, visit https://www.gohealth.com.
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, (the “Securities Act”) and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). These forward-looking statements are made in reliance upon the safe harbor provision of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release may be forward-looking statements. Statements regarding our future results of operations and financial position, business strategy and plans and objectives of management for future operations, including, among others, statements regarding our expected growth, future capital expenditures, debt service obligations and adoption and use of artificial intelligence technologies are forward-looking statements.
In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terms such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “aims,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “could,” “intends,” “targets,” “projects,” “contemplates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential,” “likely,” “future” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions. The forward-looking statements in this press release are only predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions. Accordingly, we caution you that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, assumptions and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable as of the date made, actual results may prove to be materially different from the results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements.
These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release and are subject to a number of important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements, including the factors described in the sections titled “Summary Risk Factors,” “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 (“2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K”) and in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The factors described in our 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read together with the other cautionary statements included in this press release, as well as the cautionary statements and other risk factors set forth in the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the first fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2024, the forthcoming Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the second quarter ended June 30, 2024 and in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
You should read this press release and the documents that we reference in this press release completely and with the understanding that our actual future results may be materially different from what we expect. We qualify all of our forward-looking statements by these cautionary statements. Except as required by applicable law, we do not plan to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements contained herein, whether as a result of any new information, future events, changed circumstances or otherwise
Robert LeBoyer, Senior Vice President, Equity Research Analyst, Biotechnology, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
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Phase 1 Trial Tested Safety, Tolerability, and Pharmacokinetics At Multiple Doses. Unicycive announced completion of the Phase 1 trial testing UNI-494, its product in development for protecting against acute kidney injury. The study was designed to determine tolerability, safety, and pharmacokinetic data for the design of Phase 2. Unicycive plans to present the study at an upcoming scientific meeting.
UNI-494 Is In Development For Preventing Acute Kidney Injury. UNI-494 is a proprietary formulation of nicorandil to protect against the mitochondrial dysfunction and prevent pathways that lead to cell death in acute kidney injury. The proprietary formulation increases the half-life and makes it practical for administration, while maintaining its properties as a nicotinamide ester derivative and selective activator of the ATP-sensitive mitochondrial potassium channel.
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Patrick McCann, CFA, Research Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Equity Research Analyst, Digital, Media & Technology , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
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Scores additional funding. This week, the company announced that it secured $11 million in additional funding through the issuance of convertible preferred shares. At $2 per share, the company raised the funds at a premium to the current share price, which has fluctuated around $1 per share in recent months. The shares will pay an 8% annualized dividend (quarterly installments) and are convertible to common shares at $2 per share.
Strategic relationship. Lance Shaner is the leading investor in the preferred share offering, which includes several other company insiders. Notably, Mr. Shaner, who chairs SKYX’s Hotel Advisory Board, is the CEO of Shaner Hotel Group, a leading developer of Marriot hotels. In our view, the vote of confidence given by Mr. Shaner could signal potential hotel partnerships for the company in the future and serves as continued validation of the company’s technology by industry insiders.
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Mark Reichman, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Natural Resources, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
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Second quarter financial results. For the fiscal year (FY) 2025, AZZ reported second quarter adjusted net income of $41.3 million or $1.37 per share compared to $37.2 million or $1.27 per share during the prior year period and our estimate of $40.8 million or $1.35 per share. Adjusted EBITDA increased 4.4% to $91.9 million, roughly in line with our estimate, representing 22.5% of sales versus 22.1% of sales during the second quarter of FY 2024. While sales of $409.0 million were modestly below our $410.5 million estimate, AZZ generated a 25.3% gross margin as a percentage of sales compared to 24.4% during the prior year period and our estimate of 24.4%. AZZ maintained its FY 2025 sales guidance range of $1.525 billion to $1.625 billion, lifted the lower end of adjusted EBITDA to a range of $320 million (from $310 million) to $360 million, and increased adjusted diluted EPS expectations to a range of $4.70 to $5.10 from $4.50 to $5.00.
Debt reduction. During the first half of FY25, AZZ generated operating cash flow of $119.4 million and reduced debt by $45 million. Management expects to reduce debt by at least $100 million during the fiscal year compared to prior expectations of $60 million to $90 million. At quarter end, the company’s net leverage was 2.7x trailing twelve months EBITDA and cash and cash equivalents amounted to $2.2 million.
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Key Points: – NexGold and Signal Gold merge to create a leading near-term gold developer, aiming for over 200,000 ounces of annual production. – Combined company holds 4.7 million ounces of measured and indicated gold resources and 1.3 million ounces of inferred resources. – The merger will eliminate single-asset risk for both companies and advance growth, subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals.
NexGold and Signal Gold have announced a merger, aiming to establish a top-tier near-term gold developer. The combined company will focus on advancing NexGold’s Goliath Gold Complex Project and Signal’s Goldboro Gold Project, with both already having Environmental Assessment Approvals in place. The company aims to produce over 200,000 ounces of gold annually from these projects.
The merger brings together significant assets, with a combined 4.7 million ounces of measured and indicated gold resources and 1.3 million ounces of inferred resources between the two companies. Both projects show strong potential for growth. By merging, NexGold and Signal also eliminate the risks associated with being single-asset companies.
The leadership team of the newly merged company will bring together complementary expertise in geology, engineering, finance, and sustainability. Jim Gowans will lead the board as Chairman, with Kevin Bullock serving as CEO, Jeremy Wyeth as COO, and Orin Baranowsky as CFO.
The merger will see NexGold acquire all of Signal Gold’s outstanding shares, with Signal shareholders receiving 0.1244 NexGold shares for each Signal share. Post-merger, NexGold shareholders will own approximately 71% of the company, with Signal shareholders holding the remaining 29%. The merger is still subject to shareholder approval, as well as approvals from the Toronto Venture Exchange and the Toronto Stock Exchange.
Additionally, the companies are planning a non-brokered private placement financing of up to $11.5 million, with NexGold’s board and management expected to subscribe for up to $1.0 million. This financing will provide significant funding to advance both projects toward construction decisions while helping the combined entity deleverage.
Key Points: – CPI rose by 0.2% in September, bringing annual inflation to 2.4%, slightly above expectations. – Weekly jobless claims surged to 258,000, the highest in 14 months, influenced by hurricanes and strikes. – The Federal Reserve is expected to continue lowering interest rates, with an 87.1% chance of a 25-basis-point cut in November.
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by 0.2% in September, slightly higher than expected, bringing the annual inflation rate to 2.4%. This increase was 0.1 percentage point above both August’s reading and market expectations. Over the past 12 months, CPI has increased by 2.4%, outpacing the forecasted 2.3%. Core prices, which exclude food and energy, rose by 0.3% for the month.
Despite this increase, inflation continues to trend down from its peak earlier this year, hitting its lowest level since February 2021. Key price shifts included a 1.9% drop in energy prices, a 0.4% increase in food prices, and a 0.2% rise in shelter costs. These changes, while modest, reflect some external pressures, including the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and the lingering effects of natural disasters.
In labor market news, weekly jobless claims surged to a 14-month high, reaching 258,000 for the week ending October 5, an increase of 33,000 from the previous week. The rise in claims is partly attributed to hurricane and strike activity. Florida and North Carolina, impacted by Hurricane Helene, saw a combined increase of 12,376 jobless claims. Michigan, affected by the Boeing strike, reported an additional 9,490 claims.
Despite the uptick in unemployment claims, nonfarm payrolls rose significantly in September. The Federal Reserve remains focused on reaching its inflation target of 2% and has begun lowering benchmark interest rates, including a half-point reduction in September. Further rate cuts are anticipated, with futures markets pricing in an 87.1% chance of a 25-basis-point cut in November, according to the CME’s FedWatch Tool.
While inflation was slightly higher than expected, external factors like hurricanes, strikes, and global tensions continue to influence economic dynamics. The Fed remains optimistic that inflation will continue its downward trend, though unforeseen events and upcoming political changes could impact future economic stability.
ATLANTA, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gray Media (NYSE: GTN) today announced that it will release its earnings results for the quarter ended September 30, 2024 on Friday, November 8, 2024.
Earnings Conference Call Information
Gray Media will host a conference call to discuss its operating results for the quarter ended September 30, 2024 on Friday, November 8, 2024. The call will begin at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time. The live dial-in number is 1-800-285-6670. The call will be webcast live and available for replay at www.graymedia.com. The taped replay of the conference call will be available at 1-888-556-3470 Passcode: 898476# until December 8, 2024.
About Gray Media:
Gray Media, or Gray, is a multimedia company headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, formally known as Gray Television, Inc. The company is the nation’s largest owner of top-rated local television stations and digital assets serving 113 television markets that collectively reach approximately 36 percent of US television households. The portfolio includes 77 markets with the top-rated television station and 100 markets with the first and/or second highest rated television station, as well as the largest Telemundo Affiliate group with 43 markets totaling nearly 1.5 million Hispanic TV Households. The company also owns Gray Digital Media, a full-service digital agency offering national and local clients digital marketing strategies with the most advanced digital products and services. Gray’s additional media properties include video production companies Raycom Sports, Tupelo Media Group, and PowerNation Studios, and studio production facilities Assembly Atlanta and Third Rail Studios. Gray owns a majority interest in Swirl Films. For more information, please visit www.graymedia.com.
Gray Contacts:
Jeff Gignac, Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, 404-504-9828 Kevin P. Latek, Executive Vice President, Chief Legal and Development Officer, 404-266-8333
MIAMI, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SKYX (NASDAQ: SKYX) (d/b/a “SKYX Technologies”), a highly disruptive smart platform technology company with over 97 issued and pending patents in the U.S. and globally, and which owns over 60 lighting and home décor websites with a mission to make homes and buildings become smart, safe, and advanced as the new standard, provides today a corporate update including significant insider buying.
SKYX Secures $11 million equity preferred stock investment representing $2.00 per share of common stock with NO warrants, led by global Marriott Hotel chain developer/owner of over 60 hotels.
Significant insider investing in this equity preferred round at $2.00 includes SKYX’s President Steve Schmidt, who invested $500,000, Co-CEO Lenny Sokolow, who invested $250,000, and Co-CEO John Campi, who also invested $250,000
Management emphasizes that it has sufficient cash to achieve its goals including being cash flow positive in 2025
2023 Sales of $58 million / 2024 Q-2 Record Sales of $21.4 million
Company’s total addressable market (TAM) in the U.S. of $500 billion with over 4.2 billion ceiling applications in the U.S. alone
Expected revenue streams from retail and professional segments include product sales, royalties/licensing/subscription/monitoring/sale of global country rights
Recent Collaborations:
Announced a Collaboration with Home Depot for the retail and professional markets. Company started shipping and products are already in 100 stores. Company has also started to sell product on Home Depot website and expects to have hundreds of advanced smart plug & play products on Home Depot’s website.
Signed with General Electric / GE Licensing a 5-year global licensing agreement to license its advanced and smart technologies with a goal to create an advanced smart global ceiling standard
Collaboration with world leading Chinese lighting distributor and manufacturer Ruee Appliances for the U.S., China and European markets, including financial backing
Collaboration with world leading lighting company Kichler for online and builder segments
Collaboration with U.S. leading lighting company Quoizel including for online and builder segments
Collaboration European leading lighting company EGLO for online and builder segments
Future Collaborations: Management is in the process of working on additional collaborations with leading strategic companies
Companies collaborating with SKYX are expected to leverage the fast and easy interchangeability capabilities of the technology to enhance sales of smart fixtures and fixture replacements for seasonality, energy savings, holidays, smart capabilities and renovations for both retail and professional segments
SKYX smart home technology wins 7 CES Awards (Consumer Electronics Show)
Safety Standardization Code: Based on the safety applications of the technology it was voted into 10 segments the National Electrical Code (NEC) Book and has filed for a mandatory safety standardization for its ceiling outlet receptacle for ceilings in homes and buildings
Leadership: Management, Board members, and Senior Advisors include former CEO’s and executives from Fortune 100 companies including Nielsen, Microsoft, Disney, GE, Home Depot, Office Depot, Chrysler, among others
As electricity is a standard in every home and building, our mission is to make homes and buildings become safe-advanced and smart as the new standard. SKYX has a series of highly disruptive advanced-safe-smart platform technologies, with over 94 U.S. and global patents and patent pending applications. Additionally, the Company owns over 60 lighting and home decor websites for both retail and commercial segments. Our technologies place an emphasis on high quality and ease of use, while significantly enhancing both safety and lifestyle in homes and buildings. We believe that our products are a necessity in every room in both homes and other buildings in the U.S. and globally. For more information, please visit our website at https://skyplug.com/ or follow us on LinkedIn.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements made in this press release are not based on historical facts, but are forward-looking statements. These statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “aim,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “can,” “could,” “continue,” “estimate,” “expect,” “evaluate,” “forecast,” “guidance,” “intend,” “likely,” “may,” “might,” “objective,” “ongoing,” “outlook,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “probable,” “project,” “seek,” “should,” “target” “view,” “will,” or “would,” or the negative thereof or other variations thereon or comparable terminology, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. These statements reflect the Company’s reasonable judgment with respect to future events and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which have outcomes difficult to predict and may be outside our control, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include statements relating to the Company’s ability to successfully launch, commercialize, develop additional features and achieve market acceptance of its products and technologies and integrate its products and technologies with third-party platforms or technologies; the Company’s efforts and ability to drive the adoption of its products and technologies as a standard feature, including their use in homes, hotels, offices and cruise ships; the Company’s ability to capture market share; the Company’s estimates of its potential addressable market and demand for its products and technologies; the Company’s ability to raise additional capital to support its operations as needed, which may not be available on acceptable terms or at all; the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern; the Company’s ability to execute on any sales and licensing or other strategic opportunities; the possibility that any of the Company’s products will become National Electrical Code (NEC)-code or otherwise code mandatory in any jurisdiction, or that any of the Company’s current or future products or technologies will be adopted by any state, country, or municipality, within any specific timeframe or at all; risks arising from mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures and other collaborations; the Company’s ability to attract and retain key executives and qualified personnel; guidance provided by management, which may differ from the Company’s actual operating results; the potential impact of unstable market and economic conditions on the Company’s business, financial condition, and stock price; and other risks and uncertainties described in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its periodic reports on Form 10-K and Form 10-Q. There can be no assurance as to any of the foregoing matters. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this press release, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by U.S. federal securities laws.
Reports Fiscal Year 2024 Revenue of $1.83 Billion and a Net Loss of $6.1 Million, which Includes a Non-Cash Impairment Charge of $19.8 million Recorded in the Second Quarter
Fiscal Year 2024 Gross Profit Margin Increased 260 Basis Points to 40.1%
Fiscal Year 2024 Adjusted EBITDA1 Increased to $93.1 million
Issues Fiscal Year 2025 Outlook
(1) Refer to “Definitions of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” and the tables attached at the end of this press release for reconciliation of non-GAAP results to applicable GAAP results.)
JERICHO, N.Y.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. (NASDAQ: FLWS), a leading provider of gifts designed to help inspire customers to give more, connect more, and build more and better relationships, today reported results for its Fiscal 2024 fourth quarter and year ended June 30, 2024.
“In a dynamic consumer environment that impacted discretionary consumer spending, especially amongst lower income households, our organization was able to grow year-over-year adjusted EBITDA, which benefitted from our significant gross margin recovery and our expense optimization efforts that more than offset the top line decline,” said Jim McCann, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. “During Fiscal 2024, through our Relationship Innovation initiatives, we significantly enhanced our gifting platform, including category expansion, broadening our price points, increasing our assortment of gifts available for same-day delivery, and enhancing the user experience. We also experienced a significant recovery in our gross profit margin, which benefitted from a reversion to the mean on a number of commodity costs combined with our Work Smarter initiatives to operate more efficiently.”
“As we turn to Fiscal 2025, with our gross margin recovery well underway, our organization continues to be keenly focused on improving our sales trends by leveraging our Relationship Innovation initiatives. Acknowledging the uncertain consumer environment, we anticipate revenue trends improving as the fiscal year progresses as consumers respond to our newer offerings and services. We are confident in our strategic direction to be the gifting destination of choice for thoughtful and expressive gift-giving occasions and remain focused on delivering long-term value to our shareholders,” Mr. McCann continued.
Fiscal 2024 Fourth Quarter Highlights
Total consolidated revenues decreased 9.5% to $360.9 million, compared with total consolidated revenues of $398.8 million in the prior year period.
Gross profit margin increased 130 basis points to 38.4%, compared with 37.1% in the prior year period. The gross profit margin improved on lower freight costs, a decline in certain commodity costs, and the Company’s logistics optimization efforts.
Operating expenses declined $5.8 million to $166.2 million, as compared with the prior year period.
Net loss for the quarter was $20.9 million, or ($0.32) per share, as compared to a net loss of $22.5 million, or ($0.35) per share in the prior year period.
Adjusted Net Loss1 was $21.8 million, or ($0.34) per share, compared with an Adjusted Net Loss1 of $17.8 million, or ($0.28) per share, in the prior year period.
Adjusted EBITDA1 loss for the quarter was $8.8 million, as compared with an Adjusted EBITDA1 loss of $6.6 million in the prior year period.
Acquired Scharffen Berger Chocolate Maker, a high-end producer of extraordinary craft chocolates, that enhances and expands the Company’s chocolate offerings within its gourmet food and gift basket business. The acquisition closed after the fourth quarter ended.
Fiscal Year 2024 Highlights
Total consolidated revenues decreased 9.2% to $1.83 billion, compared with total consolidated revenues of $2.02 billion in the prior year period.
Gross profit margin increased 260 basis points to 40.1%, compared with 37.5% in the prior year period. The gross profit margin improved on lower freight costs, improved commodity costs, and the Company’s logistics optimization efforts.
Operating expenses declined $55.7 million to $736.8 million, as compared with the prior year period. Excluding impairment and other non-recurring charges in both periods, as well as the impact of the Company’s non-qualified deferred compensation plan in both periods, operating expenses declined by $22.2 million to $706.1 million, as compared with the prior year.
Net loss for the fiscal year was $6.1 million, or ($0.09) per share, compared with $44.7 million, or ($0.69) per share, in the prior year period. Both periods include impairment charges as outlined in the financial tables.
Adjusted Net Income1 was $11.6 million, or $0.18 per share, compared with Adjusted Net Income1 of $13.4 million, or $0.21 per share, in the prior year period.
Adjusted EBITDA1 for the fiscal year was $93.1 million, as compared with $91.2 million in the prior year period.
Net cash provided by operating activities was $95.0 million.
Generated Free Cash Flow1 of $56.4 million.
Segment Results
The Company provides Fiscal 2024 fourth quarter and full year selected financial results for its Gourmet Foods and Gift Baskets, Consumer Floral and Gifts, and BloomNet segments in the tables attached to this release and as follows:
Gourmet Foods and Gift Baskets: Revenues for the quarter declined 12.8% to $105.2 million, as compared with the prior year period. Gross profit margin increased 190 basis points from the prior year period to 30.0%, benefiting from lower freight costs, the Company’s inventory and labor optimization efforts, as well as a decline in certain commodity costs. Segment contribution margin1 loss was $14.4 million, compared with a loss of $13.4 million in the prior year period.
For the full fiscal year, revenue decreased 9.4% to $874.3 million. Gross profit margin increased 340 basis points to 38.3%, benefiting from lower freight costs, the Company’s inventory and labor optimization efforts, as well as a decline in certain commodity costs. Excluding the impact of the severance charge in the current year and the impairment charge a year ago, segment contribution margin1 for the year was $85.0 million, compared with $77.5 million in the prior year.
Consumer Floral & Gifts: Revenues for the quarter declined 6.7% to $231.6 million, as compared with the prior year period. Gross profit margin increased 20 basis points from the prior year period to 40.8%. Segment contribution margin1 was $25.7 million, compared with $30.7 million in the prior year period.
For the full fiscal year, revenues decreased 7.7% to $849.8 million, as compared with the prior year period. Gross profit margin increased 130 basis points from the prior year period to 40.8%, improving on lower fulfillment costs and the Company’s logistics optimization efforts. Excluding the impact of the severance and impairment charges in the current year, segment contribution margin1 was $87.7 million, compared with $95.5 million in the prior year.
BloomNet: Revenues for the quarter declined 18.7% to $24.4 million, as compared with the prior year period. Revenue and gross margin were impacted by the lower volume of lower margin orders processed by BloomNet. Gross profit margin increased 710 basis points from the prior year period to 49.7%, also benefitting from lower ocean freight costs as well as product mix. Segment contribution margin1 was $7.8 million, compared with $7.4 million in the prior year period.
For the year, revenues decreased 19.1% to $107.8 million, as compared with the prior year period. Gross profit margin increased 550 basis points from the prior year period to 48.2% due to lower volume of lower margin orders, lower ocean freight costs, as well as product mix. Excluding the impact of the severance charge in the current year, segment contribution margin1 for the year was $33.8 million, compared with $37.2 million in the prior year.
Company Guidance
For Fiscal 2025, with a sustained challenging consumer environment, the Company expects revenue trends to improve as the fiscal year progresses benefitting from the company’s Relationship Innovation initiatives that have expanded the Company’s product offerings, broadened price points, and enhanced the user experience, combined with increased marketing spend. Additionally, the guidance assumes increased incentive compensation expense.
As a result, for Fiscal Year 2025 the Company expects:
total revenues on a percentage basis to be in a range of flat to a decrease in the low-single digits, as compared with the prior year;
Adjusted EBITDA1 to be in a range of $85 million to $95 million; and
Free Cash Flow1 to be in a range of $45 million to $55 million.
Conference Call
The Company will conduct a conference call to discuss the above details and attached financial results today, August 29, 2024, at 8:00 a.m. (ET). The conference call will be webcast from the Investors section of the Company’s website at www.1800flowersinc.com. A recording of the call will be posted on the Investors section of the Company’s website within two hours of the call’s completion. A telephonic replay of the call can be accessed beginning at 2:00 p.m. (ET) today through September 5, 2024, at: (US) 1-877-344-7529; (Canada) 855-669-9658; (International) 1-412-317-0088; enter conference ID #: 5141252.
Definitions of non-GAAP Financial Measures:
We sometimes use financial measures derived from consolidated financial information, but not presented in our financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). Certain of these are considered “non-GAAP financial measures” under the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission rules. Non-GAAP financial measures referred to in this document are either labeled as “non-GAAP” or designated as such with a “1”. See below for definitions and the reasons why we use these non-GAAP financial measures. Where applicable, see the Selected Financial Information below for reconciliations of these non-GAAP measures to their most directly comparable GAAP financial measures. Reconciliations for forward-looking figures would require unreasonable efforts at this time because of the uncertainty and variability of the nature and amount of certain components of various necessary GAAP components, including, for example, those related to compensation, tax items, amortization or others that may arise during the year, and the Company’s management believes such reconciliations would imply a degree of precision that would be confusing or misleading to investors. For the same reasons, the Company is unable to address the probable significance of the unavailable information. The lack of such reconciling information should be considered when assessing the impact of such disclosures.
EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA:
We define EBITDA as net income (loss) before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as EBITDA adjusted for the impact of stock-based compensation, Non-Qualified Plan Investment appreciation/depreciation, and for certain items affecting period-to-period comparability. See Selected Financial Information for details on how EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA were calculated for each period presented. The Company presents EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA because it considers such information meaningful supplemental measures of its performance and believes such information is frequently used by the investment community in the evaluation of similarly situated companies. The Company uses EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA as factors to determine the total amount of incentive compensation available to be awarded to executive officers and other employees. The Company’s credit agreement uses EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to determine its interest rate and to measure compliance with certain covenants. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are also used by the Company to evaluate and price potential acquisition candidates. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA have limitations as analytical tools and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of the Company’s results as reported under GAAP. Some of the limitations are: (a) EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA do not reflect changes in, or cash requirements for, the Company’s working capital needs; (b) EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA do not reflect the significant interest expense, or the cash requirements necessary to service interest or principal payments, on the Company’s debts; and (c) although depreciation and amortization are non-cash charges, the assets being depreciated and amortized may have to be replaced in the future and EBITDA does not reflect any cash requirements for such capital expenditures. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA should only be used on a supplemental basis combined with GAAP results when evaluating the Company’s performance.
Segment Contribution Margin and Adjusted Segment Contribution Margin
We define Segment Contribution Margin as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization, before the allocation of corporate overhead expenses. Adjusted Segment Contribution Margin is defined as Segment Contribution Margin adjusted for certain items affecting period-to-period comparability. See Selected Financial Information for details on how Segment Contribution Margin and Adjusted Segment Contribution Margin were calculated for each period presented. When viewed together with our GAAP results, we believe Segment Contribution Margin and Adjusted Segment Contribution Margin provide management and users of the financial statements meaningful information about the performance of our business segments. Segment Contribution Margin and Adjusted Segment Contribution Margin are used in addition to and in conjunction with results presented in accordance with GAAP and should not be relied upon to the exclusion of GAAP financial measures. The material limitation associated with the use of Segment Contribution Margin and Adjusted Segment Contribution Margin is that they are an incomplete measure of profitability as they do not include all operating expenses or non-operating income and expenses. Management compensates for this limitation when using these measures by looking at other GAAP measures, such as Operating Income and Net Income.
Adjusted Net Income (Loss) and Adjusted or Comparable Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share:
We define Adjusted Net Income (Loss) and Adjusted or Comparable Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share as Net Income (Loss) and Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share adjusted for certain items affecting period-to-period comparability. See Selected Financial Information below for details on how Adjusted Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share and Adjusted or Comparable Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share were calculated for each period presented. We believe that Adjusted Net Income (Loss) and Adjusted or Comparable Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share are meaningful measures because they increase the comparability of period-to-period results. Since these are not measures of performance calculated in accordance with GAAP, they should not be considered in isolation of, or as a substitute for, GAAP Net Income (Loss) and Net Income (Loss) Per Common share, as indicators of operating performance and they may not be comparable to similarly titled measures employed by other companies.
Free Cash Flow:
We define Free Cash Flow as net cash provided by operating activities less capital expenditures. The Company considers Free Cash Flow to be a liquidity measure that provides useful information to management and investors about the amount of cash generated by the business after the purchases of fixed assets, which can then be used to, among other things, invest in the Company’s business, make strategic acquisitions, strengthen the balance sheet, and repurchase stock or retire debt. Free Cash Flow is a liquidity measure that is frequently used by the investment community in the evaluation of similarly situated companies. Since Free Cash Flow is not a measure of performance calculated in accordance with GAAP, it should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of the Company’s results as reported under GAAP. A limitation of the utility of Free Cash Flow as a measure of financial performance is that it does not represent the total increase or decrease in the Company’s cash balance for the period.
About 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc.
1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. is a leading provider of gifts designed to help inspire customers to give more, connect more, and build more and better relationships. The Company’s e-commerce business platform features an all-star family of brands, including: 1-800-Flowers.com®, 1-800-Baskets.com®, Cheryl’s Cookies®, Harry & David®, PersonalizationMall.com®, Shari’s Berries®, FruitBouquets.com®, Things Remembered®, Moose Munch®, The Popcorn Factory®, Wolferman’s Bakery®, Vital Choice®, and Simply Chocolate®. Through the Celebrations Passport® loyalty program, which provides members with free standard shipping and no service charge on eligible products across our portfolio of brands, 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. strives to deepen relationships with customers. The Company also operates BloomNet®, an international floral and gift industry service provider offering a broad-range of products and services designed to help members grow their businesses profitably; Napco℠, a resource for floral gifts and seasonal décor; DesignPac Gifts, LLC, a manufacturer of gift baskets and towers; and Alice’s Table®, a lifestyle business offering fully digital livestreaming and on demand floral, culinary and other experiences to guests across the country. 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. was recognized among America’s Most Trustworthy Companies by Newsweek. 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. was also recognized among the top 5 on the National Retail Federation’s 2021 Hot 25 Retailers list, which ranks the nation’s fastest-growing retail companies, and was named to the Fortune 1000 list in 2022. Shares in 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. are traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market, ticker symbol: FLWS. For more information, visit 1800flowersinc.com or follow @1800FLOWERSInc on Twitter.
FLWS–COMP FLWS-FN
Special Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements:
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements represent the Company’s current expectations or beliefs concerning future events and can generally be identified using statements that include words such as “estimate,” “expects,” “project,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “foresee,” “forecast,” “likely,” “should,” “will,” “target” or similar words or phrases. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are outside of the Company’s control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, statements regarding the Company’s ability to achieve its guidance for the full Fiscal year; the Company’s ability to leverage its operating platform and reduce its operating expense ratio; its ability to successfully integrate acquired businesses and assets; its ability to successfully execute its strategic initiatives; its ability to cost effectively acquire and retain customers; the outcome of contingencies, including legal proceedings in the normal course of business; its ability to compete against existing and new competitors; its ability to manage expenses associated with sales and marketing and necessary general and administrative and technology investments; its ability to reduce promotional activities and achieve more efficient marketing programs; and general consumer sentiment and industry and economic conditions that may affect levels of discretionary customer purchases of the Company’s products. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any of the forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise, made in this release or in any of its SEC filings. Consequently, you should not consider any such list to be a complete set of all potential risks and uncertainties. For a more detailed description of these and other risk factors, refer to the Company’s SEC filings, including the Company’s Annual Reports on Form 10-K and its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q.
Note: The following tables are an integral part of this press release without which the information presented in this press release should be considered incomplete.
