10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2014

CURTISS WRIGHT CORP Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Sep 30, 2014

Filed October 30, 2014For Securities:CW

Summary

Curtiss-Wright Corporation (CW) reported solid top-line growth for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, with total net sales increasing by 9% to $1.67 billion compared to the same period in 2013. This growth was driven by strong performance in the Commercial/Industrial and Energy segments. The company also saw a significant increase in operating income, up 25% to $207 million, indicating effective cost management and margin improvement initiatives. Despite a notable increase in earnings from continuing operations, net earnings were lower than the prior year due to a substantial loss from discontinued operations, largely driven by impairments on assets held for sale. Financially, the company maintained a strong liquidity position, with cash and cash equivalents increasing to $222 million. The company reduced its debt levels and strengthened its balance sheet, with total liabilities decreasing. A key strategic move during the period was the divestiture of non-core businesses and the classification of others as held for sale, streamlining the company's operations and focusing on core markets. The company also announced a new share repurchase program, signaling confidence in its future prospects and commitment to returning value to shareholders.

Financial Statements
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Key Highlights

  • 1Total net sales increased by 9% to $1.67 billion for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, driven by strong performance in Commercial/Industrial and Energy segments.
  • 2Operating income grew by 25% to $207 million, reflecting effective cost management and margin improvement initiatives.
  • 3Net earnings were impacted by a significant loss from discontinued operations ($27 million), largely due to impairment charges on assets held for sale.
  • 4Cash from operating activities increased to $153 million, supporting overall liquidity, with cash and cash equivalents ending at $222 million.
  • 5The company actively managed its portfolio by divesting non-core businesses and classifying others as held for sale.
  • 6Debt levels were reduced, and the company maintained compliance with debt covenants.
  • 7A new share repurchase program authorizing up to $300 million was announced, indicating positive future outlook and commitment to shareholder returns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Curtiss-Wright showed robust growth in the first nine months of 2014, with total net sales increasing by 9% to $1.67 billion. Operating income saw a substantial 25% increase to $207 million. While earnings from continuing operations improved significantly, net earnings were negatively impacted by losses from discontinued operations, primarily due to impairments related to assets held for sale.

The company has been strategically divesting non-core businesses and classifying others as 'assets held for sale.' This includes businesses within the Defense and Energy segments, aimed at focusing on core markets and improving operational efficiency. These divestitures and classifications contributed to the reported losses from discontinued operations.

Curtiss-Wright generated strong cash flow from operations, increasing to $153 million in the first nine months of 2014, which boosted cash and cash equivalents to $222 million. The company has also been reducing its debt and stated it is in compliance with all debt agreements and covenants. The strong financial position, coupled with a new $300 million share repurchase authorization, suggests confidence in future performance and a commitment to shareholder value.

The Commercial/Industrial segment was a significant growth driver, with sales up 16% for the nine-month period, boosted by acquisitions and strong demand in commercial aerospace and general industrial markets. The Energy segment also showed healthy growth of 8% in sales, driven by the oil and gas market.