Chipmaker Wolfspeed Secures $750 Million Grant to Boost Silicon Carbide Manufacturing

Key Points:
– Wolfspeed is set to receive a $750 million grant from the U.S. government, boosting its shares over 30%.
– The chipmaker plans a nearly 30% production capacity increase as part of a $6 billion investment strategy.
– The funding aims to strengthen the U.S. semiconductor industry amid rising demand for energy-efficient technologies.

Wolfspeed, a leading manufacturer of electric vehicle (EV) chips, has announced that it will receive $750 million in government grants to support its new silicon carbide wafer manufacturing plant in North Carolina. This funding is part of the U.S. Commerce Department’s initiative to bolster domestic semiconductor production, a critical sector for the nation’s economy and technological security. Following the announcement, Wolfspeed’s stock price surged by over 30%, reflecting investor optimism about the company’s future prospects.

The Commerce Department emphasized that the preliminary funding agreement requires Wolfspeed to take steps to strengthen its balance sheet to safeguard taxpayer funds. In addition to the government grant, Wolfspeed has secured $750 million in new financing from a consortium of investment funds led by Apollo Global Management, the Baupost Group, Fidelity Management & Research Company, and Capital Group. This dual approach to funding will provide a solid financial foundation for the company’s ambitious expansion plans.

Wolfspeed specializes in producing silicon carbide chips, a more energy-efficient alternative to traditional silicon-based components. These chips are crucial for a variety of applications, including the transmission of power from electric vehicle batteries to motors, making them particularly important in the rapidly growing EV market. The company counts major automotive manufacturers such as General Motors and Mercedes-Benz among its customers, highlighting the increasing demand for advanced semiconductor technologies in the automotive sector.

As part of its strategy to enhance production capabilities, Wolfspeed is also expanding its silicon carbide device manufacturing facility in Marcy, New York, aiming to increase production capacity by nearly 30%. This expansion is a key component of its previously announced $6 billion capacity growth plan, which is designed to position Wolfspeed as a market leader in the semiconductor industry.

The recent funding announcement underscores the strategic significance of Wolfspeed’s technology, especially as the U.S. government intensifies efforts to revitalize its semiconductor industry. The company’s devices are used not only in the automotive sector but also in renewable energy systems and artificial intelligence applications. This diverse application range positions Wolfspeed well to benefit from ongoing investments in clean energy and technological innovation.

In addition to the grant and new financing, Wolfspeed anticipates receiving $1 billion in cash tax refunds from the “48D” advanced manufacturing tax credit under the Chips and Science Act. This further financial incentive underscores the government’s commitment to supporting domestic semiconductor production, especially as competition with global players intensifies.

However, despite these positive developments, Wolfspeed’s stock has faced significant challenges this year, with its value plummeting nearly 75% due to a sharp slowdown in electric vehicle demand. The company’s new 2 million-square-foot silicon carbide wafer factory in Chatham County, North Carolina, which was announced in 2022, is expected to deliver wafers by summer 2025 to meet its own chip manufacturing needs.

As Wolfspeed moves forward with these strategic initiatives, the company is poised to play a critical role in shaping the future of the semiconductor industry in the U.S., driving innovations in electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies.

Apollo Global to Take Barnes Group Private in $3.6 Billion Deal

Key Points:
– Apollo Global Management is acquiring Barnes Group in a $3.6 billion all-cash deal, providing shareholders with $47.50 per share, a 22% premium over the June 25, 2024 share price.
– The transaction is expected to close by Q1 2025, after which Barnes will be delisted from the NYSE and become a privately held company.
– Apollo plans to support Barnes in its continued innovation and long-term growth across its aerospace and industrial sectors.

Barnes Group Inc. (NYSE: B) announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by funds managed by Apollo Global Management, Inc. (NYSE: APO) in an all-cash transaction valued at approximately $3.6 billion. Under the terms of the agreement, Barnes shareholders will receive $47.50 per share, representing a 22% premium over the company’s undisturbed closing share price on June 25, 2024.

A Strategic Move for Growth

The deal delivers immediate and certain cash value to Barnes shareholders while positioning the company to continue serving its customers in the aerospace and industrial sectors. Apollo Global Management, a global alternative asset manager with over 35 years of investment experience, is committed to helping companies like Barnes achieve long-term sustainable growth. Apollo has a proven track record of investing in leading businesses and positioning them for future success.

“This transaction will enable Barnes to continue meeting and exceeding our customers’ needs with innovative aerospace and industrial products, systems, and solutions,” a Barnes spokesperson stated.

Barnes to Be Delisted and Taken Private

Upon completion of the transaction, which is expected by the end of Q1 2025, Barnes will be delisted from the New York Stock Exchange and become a privately held company. The deal is subject to customary closing conditions, including approval by Barnes shareholders and regulatory approval.

About Barnes Group

Founded in 1857 and headquartered in Bristol, Connecticut, Barnes Group Inc. has built a reputation for pioneering excellence in advanced manufacturing processes, automation solutions, and applied technologies across various industries. Barnes Aerospace specializes in producing and servicing complex components for commercial and military turbine engines, while Barnes Industrial focuses on engineered plastics and industrial automation solutions.

About Apollo Global Management

Apollo Global Management is a high-growth, global asset manager with approximately $696 billion in assets under management as of June 30, 2024. Apollo’s investment strategies span a wide spectrum, from investment-grade to private equity, focusing on delivering excess returns for its clients. The company has a long history of providing capital solutions to businesses, helping them grow and achieve financial security.

Fed’s Rate Cut Offers Limited Relief for U.S. Factories Amid China Competition

Key Points:
– The Federal Reserve’s recent rate cut provides only marginal benefits to U.S. manufacturers.
– Rising raw material costs and competition from Chinese imports continue to challenge the U.S. manufacturing sector.
– Energy price hikes and potential port strikes add to the pressures faced by U.S. factories.

The Federal Reserve’s recent decision to cut interest rates by half a percentage point has sparked hope among some U.S. manufacturers. However, for many factory owners, the benefits of the rate reduction are overshadowed by ongoing challenges, including competition from China, high raw material prices, and labor disruptions.

Drew Greenblatt, president of Marlin Steel, a small manufacturer of wire baskets in Baltimore, represents one such case. His business had seen a surge in demand during the COVID-19 pandemic when a major client shifted orders from China to the U.S. However, this boost was short-lived, as the customer reverted back to cheaper Chinese suppliers, leaving Greenblatt grappling with surplus capacity and excess workers.

“The rate cut is welcome, but it doesn’t solve the real issue,” Greenblatt said. “We need more aggressive trade actions to level the playing field.”

The Federal Reserve’s rate cut is the first in several years, aimed at stimulating economic growth by making borrowing more affordable for businesses. In theory, lower interest rates should spur investment and expansion, but for manufacturers like Greenblatt, the rate reduction doesn’t alleviate the more significant issues plaguing the sector.

U.S. manufacturers continue to face heightened competition from low-cost Chinese imports. Despite tariffs and trade restrictions, companies often find themselves losing business to Chinese firms that offer more affordable products. In many cases, even with lower interest rates, the cost advantage of Chinese imports is too great for U.S. factories to overcome.

“The rate cut doesn’t fix supply chain issues or lower raw material costs,” said Cliff Waldman, CEO of New World Economics. “These are the real concerns U.S. manufacturers are dealing with, and lower borrowing costs won’t solve those problems.”

While competition from overseas remains a significant concern, domestic challenges also compound the difficulties faced by U.S. manufacturers. Rising electricity costs, particularly in states like California, are taking a toll on energy-intensive industries. Kevin Kelly, CEO of Emerald Packaging, shared how his family-run business, which produces plastic bags for produce companies, saw a steep rise in electricity costs over the summer.

“We just didn’t anticipate such a sharp increase in our power bill,” Kelly said. “We’ve had to adjust our production schedule and shut down some operations during peak hours, but it’s still eating into our profitability.”

The specter of labor unrest and potential port strikes further exacerbates the challenges. With a possible strike looming at major East Coast and Gulf of Mexico ports in October, manufacturers fear disruptions in supply chains, which could cause delays and drive up costs. This would be another setback for U.S. factories that are already navigating supply chain bottlenecks and inflationary pressures on inputs.

For many manufacturers, the Fed’s interest rate cut, while beneficial, offers only limited relief. Supply chain disruptions, rising raw material and energy costs, and stiff competition from Chinese imports present much more significant hurdles.

As Greenblatt noted, “The rate cut helps, but it’s just a small piece of a much bigger puzzle. We need stronger trade policies and measures that address the root causes of our struggles.”

The U.S. manufacturing sector, once a cornerstone of economic growth, now finds itself in a precarious position. While the rate cuts may provide a short-term boost, longer-term solutions are required to address the structural challenges the industry faces. Without significant reforms in trade policies and support for domestic production, manufacturers will continue to struggle despite favorable interest rates.

Hammond Power Solutions Acquires Micron Industries Corporation, Expanding U.S. Operations

Key Points:
– Hammond Power Solutions (HPS) signs a $16 million agreement to acquire Micron Industries Corporation.
– The acquisition strengthens HPS’ presence in the U.S. electrical transformer market and complements its global operations.
– HPS plans to maintain Micron’s branding and continue its well-established product lines.

Hammond Power Solutions (HPS), a major player in the power transformer and quality solutions industry, has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the assets of Micron Industries Corporation. This acquisition is structured as an asset purchase through HPS’ U.S. subsidiary and is set to close by mid-October 2024, pending standard closing conditions. The deal is valued at $16 million USD and signals HPS’ ongoing expansion strategy in the power solutions market.

Micron Industries, based in Sterling, Illinois, is a well-established provider of control transformers and other electrical products. The company generated approximately $23 million in revenue in 2023, demonstrating its strength and presence in the electrical products market. Following the acquisition, HPS plans to continue operating Micron’s assets under its original branding, retaining the valuable brand equity that Micron Industries has built over the years.

The acquisition of Micron aligns with HPS’ goal of expanding its reach in the U.S. and growing its portfolio in the electrical distribution sector. This deal also reflects HPS’ broader strategy of acquiring assets that enhance its capabilities in essential power infrastructure, a critical component of its business model. By acquiring Micron’s assets, HPS not only expands its operational capacity but also boosts its ability to serve a wide range of end-user applications across industries like manufacturing, oil and gas, and infrastructure projects.

HPS’ acquisition of Micron Industries comes at a pivotal time as global demand for efficient, reliable electrical power solutions continues to grow, driven by trends like renewable energy, electrification of transportation, and the increasing need for infrastructure development. With manufacturing facilities in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and India, HPS is well-positioned to capitalize on these growing market opportunities, further strengthening its competitive edge.

Micron Industries, which has been serving original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and control system builders since 1971, is renowned for its control transformers, low-voltage transformers, and DC power supplies. The company’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility is known for delivering high-quality, defect-free products with short lead times. This level of service and commitment to quality aligns with HPS’ operational standards, making the acquisition a natural fit.

For HPS, this acquisition is about more than just expanding its asset base. It’s about leveraging the synergies between the two companies to enhance product offerings, increase operational efficiency, and provide superior value to its customers. The continuation of Micron’s product lines will enable HPS to cater to a wider array of customer needs while maintaining the quality and reliability that both brands are known for.

As HPS integrates Micron’s operations, the market will be closely watching how the company harnesses the strengths of this acquisition to drive growth and innovation in the power solutions sector. By bolstering its U.S. presence and expanding its product portfolio, HPS is set to solidify its position as a leader in the dry-type transformer and power quality solutions market.

U.S. to Award $3 Billion to 25 Battery Manufacturing Projects, Boosting Domestic Production

Key Points:
– U.S. DOE to award $3 billion to 25 battery manufacturing projects.
– Projects will create 12,000 jobs and reduce reliance on China for critical minerals.
– Funding will enhance domestic production, innovation, and recycling of advanced battery technologies.

The U.S. is making another strategic move to bolster its battery manufacturing sector by awarding $3 billion to 25 projects across 14 states. This comes as part of the Biden administration’s larger effort to reduce reliance on China for critical minerals and battery production. The projects, aimed at expanding domestic production of advanced batteries and recycling capabilities, are expected to create 12,000 new jobs and generate $16 billion in total investment.

These awards represent a critical step in strengthening U.S. leadership in the clean energy space, particularly as demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems accelerates. This initiative follows recent changes to U.S. EV tax credits, which are designed to shift battery production and the sourcing of critical minerals away from China.

Albemarle, a key player in lithium production, will receive $67 million for a North Carolina-based project to produce anode material for next-generation lithium-ion batteries. Meanwhile, Honeywell will get $126.6 million to build a large-scale facility in Louisiana, where it will produce a critical electrolyte salt for lithium batteries. These investments demonstrate how U.S. companies are gearing up to meet the future needs of the EV market and beyond.

Other notable projects include a $225 million award to TerraVolta Resources to produce lithium using Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) technology, and a $150 million investment in Clarios Circular Solutions to recycle lithium-ion battery production scrap in South Carolina. These efforts are crucial as most U.S. production scrap is currently exported to China for processing, a gap the Biden administration is determined to close.

The announcement further highlights the U.S. government’s increasing focus on battery manufacturing as a key area of growth for both the economy and the clean energy transition. Revex Technologies, for example, is set to receive $145 million to turn waste from a U.S. nickel mine into enough domestic nickel production to power at least 462,000 EV batteries annually. Such investments emphasize the U.S.’s commitment to securing a reliable domestic supply of critical materials for clean energy technologies.

“Mineral security is essential for climate security,” said White House climate adviser Ali Zaidi, adding that these projects will position the U.S. to lead in next-generation battery technologies, from solid-state batteries to new chemistries.

In addition to strengthening the EV supply chain, these projects also emphasize the importance of creating sustainable, domestic sources for battery materials. The DOE’s planned $225 million award to SWA Lithium for producing lithium carbonate from brine, using DLE technology, showcases how innovative methods are being supported to minimize environmental impacts while boosting U.S. production.

With growing bipartisan support, the battery manufacturing sector is poised to play a pivotal role in both U.S. energy independence and the country’s green energy goals. These awards further underscore the importance of developing domestic infrastructure to meet the needs of a rapidly changing global energy landscape.

Wall Street Stumbles into September: Key Economic Data Looms Over Markets

Wall Street started September on a sour note as major indexes fell more than 1%, driven by concerns over the latest U.S. manufacturing data and the anticipation of key labor market reports due later this week. The decline highlights growing investor unease about the direction of the U.S. economy and the potential actions of the Federal Reserve in the coming months.

The U.S. manufacturing sector showed modest improvement in August, rising slightly from an eight-month low in July. However, the overall trend remained weak, pointing to continued challenges within the sector. The S&P 500 industrials sector, which includes industry giants like Caterpillar and 3M, dropped over 1.6% as market participants digested the mixed signals from the manufacturing data. This decline in industrial stocks was mirrored by a significant drop in rate-sensitive technology stocks, with Nvidia leading the losses, falling 5.4%. The Philadelphia SE Semiconductor Index followed suit, losing 4.1%. Other tech heavyweights, including Apple and Alphabet, also felt the pressure, with each company’s stock declining by more than 1.6%.

Investors are now turning their attention to the labor market, with a series of reports scheduled throughout the week, culminating in Friday’s non-farm payrolls data for August. The labor market has been under increased scrutiny since July’s report suggested a sharper-than-expected slowdown, which contributed to a global selloff in riskier assets. This week’s labor data will be closely watched, as it could influence the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy decisions later this month. The Fed’s meeting is expected to provide more clarity on potential policy adjustments, especially after Chair Jerome Powell recently expressed support for forthcoming changes. According to the CME Group’s FedWatch Tool, the probability of a 25-basis point interest rate cut stands at 63%, while the likelihood of a larger 50-basis point reduction is at 37%.

Amid the broader market downturn, defensive sectors such as consumer staples and healthcare managed to post marginal gains, offering some relief to investors. In contrast, energy stocks were the worst performers, with the sector falling 3% due to declining crude prices. The drop in energy stocks underscores the volatility in commodity markets and the broader uncertainty facing investors as they navigate the current economic environment. Despite the recent setbacks, the Dow and S&P 500 have shown resilience, recovering from early August’s losses to end the month on a positive note. Both indexes are near record highs, though September has historically been a challenging month for equities.

Among individual stocks, Tesla managed to gain 0.5% following reports that the company plans to produce a six-seat version of its Model Y car in China starting in late 2025. Conversely, Boeing shares plummeted 8% after Wells Fargo downgraded the stock from “equal weight” to “underweight,” citing concerns about the company’s near-term outlook.

As the week progresses, the market will be closely monitoring labor market data and any signals from the Federal Reserve regarding future monetary policy. With the economic outlook still uncertain, investors are likely to remain cautious, weighing hopes for a soft landing against fears of a more pronounced economic slowdown.

Nano Dimension to Acquire Desktop Metal: A Game-Changer in Additive Manufacturing

The additive manufacturing landscape is set for a seismic shift as Nano Dimension Ltd. (Nasdaq: NNDM) announces its plans to acquire Desktop Metal, Inc. (NYSE: DM) in an all-cash transaction. This merger, expected to close in Q4 2024, promises to create a powerhouse in the 3D printing industry, offering investors a unique opportunity to capitalize on the burgeoning trend of digital manufacturing.

Under the terms of the agreement, Nano Dimension will purchase all outstanding shares of Desktop Metal for $5.50 per share, valuing the company at approximately $183 million. This represents a 27.3% premium to Desktop Metal’s closing price on July 2, 2024. However, investors should be aware that the final price could potentially decrease to $4.07 per share, reducing the total consideration to $135 million, depending on transaction expenses and other factors outlined in the agreement.

The strategic rationale behind this merger is compelling. By combining two complementary product portfolios, the new entity aims to create a comprehensive offering across metal, electronics, casting, polymer, micro-polymer, and ceramics applications. This broader product range is expected to accelerate the industry’s transition from prototyping to mass production, a key growth driver in the additive manufacturing sector.

The merger will also deepen the companies’ penetration in key end markets such as automotive, aerospace/defense, industrial, and medical. The combined entity will serve an impressive roster of blue-chip customers, including Amazon, Tesla, NASA, and the US Army, positioning it at the forefront of industry innovation and adoption.

From a financial perspective, the merged company is projected to have 2023 combined revenue of $246 million, with a notable 28% generated from recurring revenue streams. This recurring revenue component is particularly attractive to investors, as it provides more stable and predictable cash flows. Moreover, the deal is expected to generate over $30 million in run-rate synergies over the next few years, in addition to previously announced cost savings from each organization.

Post-merger, the combined entity is expected to boast a strong cash position of approximately $665 million (or $680 million at the reduced price scenario), providing ample resources for future growth initiatives and R&D investments. This financial strength, coupled with an installed base of over 8,000 systems, positions the new company to capitalize on significant opportunities in services and consumables, further enhancing its recurring revenue potential.

The merger positions the new company as a leader in the rapidly evolving additive manufacturing industry, particularly in the transition from prototyping to high-volume production. Investors should take note of the company’s focus on high-tech, premium margin solutions, which could lead to improved profitability in the long term. The diverse product portfolio and expanded customer base also provide some insulation against industry-specific risks.

However, potential investors should be aware of the challenges that come with such a significant merger. Integration risks, including the consolidation of operations across multiple geographies, could impact short-term performance. Additionally, the transaction is subject to approval by Desktop Metal’s stockholders and regulatory authorities, which introduces some uncertainty. The additive manufacturing industry is also highly competitive and rapidly evolving, which may require continuous innovation and investment to maintain market position.

For investors interested in the additive manufacturing sector and M&A activity, this deal offers an attractive entry point into a potentially transformative merger. The combined company’s strong financial position, diverse product offering, and focus on high-growth areas of digital manufacturing make it a compelling investment proposition. However, as with any merger, investors should closely monitor the integration process and the company’s ability to realize projected synergies. The potential for price adjustments also warrants attention, as it could impact the overall value of the deal.

In conclusion, the Nano Dimension-Desktop Metal merger represents a significant consolidation in the additive manufacturing industry, creating a well-capitalized leader with a comprehensive product portfolio. For investors willing to navigate the inherent risks of M&A transactions, this deal could offer substantial long-term value as the additive manufacturing industry continues its growth trajectory, potentially reshaping the future of manufacturing across multiple sectors.

Release – CVG Announces Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2023 Earnings Call

Research News and Market Data on CVGI

February 23, 2024

NEW ALBANY, Ohio, Feb. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Commercial Vehicle Group (the “Company” or “CVG”) (NASDAQ: CVGI) will hold its quarterly conference call on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. ET, to discuss fourth quarter and full year 2023 financial results. CVG will issue a press release and presentation prior to the conference call.

Toll-free participants dial (888) 259-6580 using conference code 88986985. International participants dial (416) 764-8624 using conference code 88986985. This call is being webcast and can be accessed through the “Investors” section of CVG’s website at ir.cvgrp.com where it will be archived for one year.

A telephonic replay of the conference call will be available until March 19, 2024. To access the replay, toll-free callers can dial (877) 674-7070 using access code 986985.

About CVG

At CVG, we deliver real solutions to complex design, engineering and manufacturing problems while creating positive change for our customers, industries, and communities we serve. Information about the Company and its products is available on the internet at www.cvgrp.com.

Investor Relations Contact:
Ross Collins or Stephen Poe
Alpha IR Group
CVGI@alpha-ir.com

Source: Commercial Vehicle Group, Inc.

Haynes International to be Acquired by Acerinox Subsidiary

In a significant development within the metallurgical industry, Acerinox’s wholly owned U.S. subsidiary, North American Stainless, is set to acquire Haynes International (HAYN), a leading developer, manufacturer, and marketer of technologically advanced high-performance alloys. The all-cash transaction, valued at $798 million, positions Acerinox to fortify its global leadership in the high-performance alloy segment.

Under the definitive agreement, Acerinox will acquire all outstanding shares of Haynes for $61.00 per share in cash, reflecting a premium of approximately 22% to Haynes’s six-month volume-weighted average share price ending February 2, 2024. The enterprise value of the deal stands at approximately $970 million. The transaction has received unanimous approval from the Boards of Directors of both Haynes and Acerinox.

Strategic Benefits for Acerinox:

  • Global Leadership: Strengthens Acerinox’s global leadership in the high-performance alloy segment.
  • U.S. Market Expansion: Expands Acerinox’s presence in the U.S. market, creating new opportunities in the aerospace sector.
  • Strategic Investment: Haynes to reinvest around $200 million over the next four years, particularly in Haynes’s Kokomo operations, to establish an integrated HPA and stainless steel platform.
  • Synergies and Growth: Anticipates annual synergies of $71 million, primarily unlocked through the $200 million investment, fostering growth and margin enhancements.
  • Complementary Businesses: Creates additional value through the combination of complementary businesses, expanding U.S. operating capabilities and establishing a worldwide sales and distribution network.
  • Accelerated Growth: Provides a strong platform to accelerate growth in high-performance alloys and specialty stainless in North America.
  • R&D Capabilities: Adds extensive R&D capabilities and a significant patent portfolio, reinforcing Acerinox’s innovation potential.

Haynes’s Perspective:

  • Significant Premium: Delivers substantial value to Haynes stockholders, offering a premium of approximately 22% to the six-month volume-weighted average share price.
  • Long-Term Success: Ensures the long-term success of Haynes by validating the strength of the business and providing access to Acerinox’s financial strength and expertise.
  • Strategic Investment: The $170 million investment in Haynes’ operations supports continued growth in both flat and round products for the global market.
  • Enhanced Capacity: Positions Haynes to meet dynamic customer demands by increasing manufacturing capacity and offering more differentiated products, applications, and services with faster lead times.
  • Rich Heritage: Merges Haynes’ 112-year-strong foundation and leadership in high-performance alloys with the largest fully integrated stainless-steel company in the U.S.

Regarding the transaction, Noble Capital Markets Senior Research Analyst Mark Reichman stated, “In our opinion, the transaction provides a fair return for Haynes’ shareholders. Additionally, Acerinox has committed to investing $170 million into Haynes’ operations which will support the modernization and growth of the company’s global business in both flat and round products.” Mark initiated research coverage on Haynes International on February 16, 2023.

The information contained in this article, other than Mark’s quote, was derived from the individual press releases issued by the companies involved in this transaction. This press releases can be found here:

https://www.acerinox.com/en/comunicacion/noticias/Acerinox-to-Acquire-Haynes-International/

https://www.haynesintl.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/02.05.2024-Transaction-Press-Release.pdf

Haynes International (HAYN) is currently covered by Noble Capital Markets Senior Analyst Mark Reichman. Noble Capital Markets, Inc. is a subsidiary of Noble Financial Group, Inc., the parent company of Channelchek. All equity research on Channelchek is provided by Noble Capital Markets. No part of this article was prepared by Noble’s analysts. Please view Mark’s most recent research report on Haynes International for any applicable disclosures.

Release – Commercial Vehicle Group Completes Sale of FinishTEK Business to Rowmark LLC

Research News and Market Data on CVGI

February 1, 2024

NEW ALBANY, Ohio, Feb. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Commercial Vehicle Group (CVG) (NASDAQ: CVGI), a global leader in the design and manufacturing of electrical systems, vehicle components and accessories, plastic products and robotic assemblies, today announced that it has sold its FinishTEK business to Rowmark LLC, effective January 31, 2024.

Based in Dalton, Ga., FinishTEK, is a hydrographic and paint decorator with 95,000 square feet of specialized manufacturing and warehouse space and 30 employees. FinishTEK was part of CVG’s Vehicle Solutions segment serving Tier 1 suppliers and OEM manufacturers in a wide variety of industries, including powersports, heavy-duty truck, appliance, automotive, turf, construction, and agriculture. Rowmark, based in Findlay, Ohio, is a leading manufacturer of engravable sheet plastic for the awards, engraving and signage markets.

James Ray, President and CEO of CVG, stated, “As part of our strategy to drive revenue growth, primarily in our electrical systems business and improve our margins, we continually evaluate our portfolio of businesses and product lines for strategic fit and continued investment. This is a positive transaction for both companies and continues to optimize CVG’s portfolio toward its core growth businesses.”

CVG and Rowmark are committed to a smooth transition for our customers, suppliers, and the employees. The terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

About FinishTEK

FinishTEK was founded in 1993 as Daltek Inc. It was acquired by Commercial Vehicle Group in 2012 and renamed FinishTEK. FinishTEK is a hydrographic and paint decorator specializing in plastics decorating and finishing. It offers customers a wide variety of cost-effective finishes in hydrographics, paint, and UV hard coating.

About CVG

At CVG, we deliver real solutions to complex design, engineering and manufacturing problems while creating positive change for our customers, industries, and communities we serve. Information about CVG and its products is available at www.cvgrp.com.

Investor Relations Contact:
Ross Collins or Stephen Poe
Alpha IR Group
CVGI@alpha-ir.com

Media Contact:
Patrick Woolford
Director, Communications
Patrick.Woolford@cvgrp.com

Source: Commercial Vehicle Group, Inc.

Commercial Vehicle Group (CVGI) – NobleCon19 Presentation Notes


Tuesday, December 12, 2023

Joe Gomes, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Generalist , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Joshua Zoepfel, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

NobleCon19. Commercial Vehicle Group CFO Andy Cheung presented at NobleCon19. Highlights included are the expansion of its Electrical Systems segment, optimizing costs, and the outlook for truck builds. A rebroadcast is available at https://www.channelchek.com/videos/commercial-vehicle-group-noblecon19-replay.

Electrical Systems. Management highlighted the focus on growth for its higher margin Electrical Systems segment through new business wins, volume growth, and market diversification. The Company expects the segment to become its biggest in a few years. Today, the segment is about 25% of total revenue. It is also strategically adding new plant locations, with two new plants in Morocco and Mexico.


Get the Full Report

Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.

This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).

*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. 

Commercial Vehicle Group (CVGI) – Appoints New CEO


Tuesday, December 12, 2023

Joe Gomes, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Generalist , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Joshua Zoepfel, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

New CEO. After an extensive search, Commercial Vehicle Group appointed James Ray as the Company’s next President and Chief Executive Officer. On December 20, 2023, he will replace Interim CEO Robert Griffin, who will continue in his role as Chairman of the Board of Directors for CVG.

Strong Background. Mr. Ray brings extensive global and broad-based experience in many of CVG’s key end markets, including electrical systems. Prior to joining CVG’s Board, Mr. Ray served as President, Engineered Fastening at Stanley Black & Decker, Inc. where he held various global industrial P&L and operational leadership roles from 2013 through 2020. Prior to Stanley Black & Decker, he spent more than 25 years in global P&L and engineering leadership roles at TE Connectivity, Delphi, and General Motors.


Get the Full Report

Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.

This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).

*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. 

Release – Commercial Vehicle Group Appoints James Ray as President and Chief Executive Officer

December 11, 2023

NEW ALBANY, Ohio, Dec. 11, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Commercial Vehicle Group (“CVG” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: CVGI), a global leader in the design and manufacturing of electrical systems, vehicle components and accessories, plastic products and robotic assemblies, today announced that its Board of Directors has appointed James Ray as the Company’s next President and Chief Executive Officer. On December 20, 2023, he will replace Interim CEO Robert Griffin, who will continue in his role as Chairman of the Board of Directors for CVG.

The appointment of Mr. Ray follows an extensive, global search process led by international, executive search firm Heidrick & Struggles. The Board thanked Mr. Griffin for leading the Company during the search for the permanent President and CEO.

Mr. Ray has served as an Independent Director on CVG’s Board since March 2020 and will remain on the Board as a non-independent director following his appointment as President and CEO. He also currently serves as an Independent Director on the Boards of Leslie’s, Inc. and Spirit AeroSystems, Inc. In addition to his Board roles, Mr. Ray has provided consulting services to Fortune 100 companies and private equity portfolio companies. He brings extensive global and broad-based experience in many of CVG’s key end markets, including electrical systems. Prior to joining CVG’s Board, Mr. Ray served as President, Engineered Fastening at Stanley Black & Decker, Inc. where he held various global industrial P&L and operational leadership roles from 2013 through 2020. Prior to Stanley Black & Decker, he spent more than 25 years in global P&L and engineering leadership roles at TE Connectivity, Delphi, and General Motors.

Mr. Ray earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical and electronics engineering from Howard University and a master’s degree in manufacturing management from Kettering University.

“We have selected a world-class executive with exceptional experience and leadership skills, and he is extraordinarily well-suited to advance our long-term strategy and accelerate growth,” said Mr. Griffin. “James is a trusted and growth-oriented leader with extensive management experience in global industries. He is the ideal candidate to lead CVG through its next stage of growth, and we expect a very smooth leadership transition.”

Mr. Ray said, “I am honored to be named President and CEO and appreciate the Board’s trust and support. I look forward to working with our approximately 8,000 outstanding employees as we execute our strategy to deliver value to our customers and shareholders. I am excited and energized to lead this diverse organization, a business with an impressive global footprint and diversified product portfolio. In my time on the Board, I have only become more convinced by the strength of CVG’s fundamentals, the transformative strategy and our clear growth potential.”

About CVG

At CVG, we deliver real solutions to complex design, engineering and manufacturing problems while creating positive change for our customers, industries, and communities we serve. Information about the Company and its products is available on the internet at www.cvgrp.com.

Investor Relations Contact:
Ross Collins or Stephen Poe
Alpha IR Group
CVGI@alpha-ir.com

Media Contact:
Patrick Woolford
Director, Communications
Patrick.Woolford@cvgrp.com