10-Q/APeriod: Q1 FY2019

CURTISS WRIGHT CORP Quarterly Report (Amendment) for Q1 Ended Mar 31, 2019

Filed May 24, 2019For Securities:CW

Summary

Curtiss-Wright Corporation reported strong performance for the first quarter of 2019, with total net sales increasing by 6% to $578.3 million compared to the prior year period. This growth was driven by a significant 24% increase in the Power segment, largely attributable to the acquisition of Dresser-Rand Government Business (DRG) and increased naval defense sales. The Defense segment also saw a modest 2% sales increase, while the Commercial/Industrial segment experienced a slight 1% decrease. Operating income saw a robust 12% increase to $72.0 million, with operating margins improving to 12.5%. This improvement was bolstered by the DRG acquisition and favorable overhead absorption in the Power segment, partially offset by an unfavorable mix shift in the Defense segment. Net earnings rose by a significant 27% to $55.6 million, or $1.29 per diluted share, reflecting improved operational performance and a lower effective tax rate.

Financial Statements
Beta

Key Highlights

  • 1Total net sales increased by 6% to $578.3 million, driven by growth in the Power segment (+24%) and Defense segment (+2%), partially offset by a slight decrease in Commercial/Industrial (-1%).
  • 2Operating income grew by 12% to $72.0 million, with an improved operating margin of 12.5% from 11.8% in the prior year.
  • 3Net earnings surged by 27% to $55.6 million, resulting in diluted EPS of $1.29, up from $0.98 in the prior year.
  • 4The acquisition of Tactical Communications Group (TCG) for $49 million in March 2019, adding to the Defense segment and contributing $21.1 million in goodwill.
  • 5New orders increased by 23% to $746.7 million, indicating strong future demand, particularly in naval defense.
  • 6The effective tax rate decreased to 20.9% from 28.4% in the prior year, positively impacting net earnings.
  • 7The company adopted ASC 842, Leases, effective January 1, 2019, resulting in an increase of approximately $151 million in both total assets and total liabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Revenue growth was primarily driven by a significant increase in the Power segment, up 24%, fueled by the acquisition of Dresser-Rand Government Business (DRG) and higher naval defense sales. The Defense segment also contributed positively with a 2% increase in sales.

Profitability improved significantly. Operating income increased by 12% to $72.0 million, and operating margins expanded by 70 basis points to 12.5%. This was supported by the DRG acquisition, favorable overhead absorption, and ongoing margin improvement initiatives.

Curtiss-Wright continues to evaluate potential acquisitions that strategically fit its existing portfolio or expand into new markets. In Q1 2019, they acquired Tactical Communications Group (TCG) for $49 million, which operates within the Defense segment. This demonstrates an ongoing strategy of targeted growth through acquisitions.

The company is involved in asbestos litigation and a significant claim from Canadian Natural Resources Limited (CNRL) related to a refinery fire. While the company believes it has adequate legal defenses and insurance, it notes that unfavorable developments in the CNRL case could materially affect its financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows. Management believes other legal actions, individually or in aggregate, will not have a material effect.