01—Abstract
Summary
Summary of the 10-Q filed May 2, 2024. Cited figures are marked; the original filing is the authoritative source.
Curtiss-Wright Corporation (CW) reported a strong first quarter for 2024, with a significant 13% increase in total net sales to $713.2 milliona, driven by broad-based growth across its key segments, particularly Defense Electronics.
Net earnings rose a robust 35% to $76.5 millionb, translating to diluted earnings per share of $1.99, up from $1.48 in the prior year period. This performance reflects effective operational execution and favorable market dynamics, especially within the aerospace and defense sectors. The company's strategic focus on its core markets is yielding positive results, with substantial growth in new orders, up 26% to over $900 million.
This strong order book provides good visibility into future revenue. While the company experienced a decrease in comprehensive income due to foreign currency translation adjustments, the underlying profitability and sales growth indicate a healthy operational trajectory. Management's focus on disciplined capital allocation, including share repurchases, and its solid liquidity position, further underscore the company's financial strength.
02—Key points
Key Highlights
- Total net sales increased by 13% year-over-year to $713.2 million, indicating robust top-line growth.
- Net earnings surged by 35% to $76.5 million, demonstrating strong profitability improvements.
- Diluted earnings per share (EPS) grew to $1.99 from $1.48 in the prior year, a significant increase for shareholders.
- New orders saw a substantial increase of 26% to $901.3 million, providing a strong pipeline for future revenue.
- The Defense Electronics segment was a standout performer, with sales up 31% and operating income more than doubling, driven by demand for tactical communications and embedded computing.
- Operating income increased by 27% to $100 million, with an improved operating margin of 14.0%.
- The company completed the acquisition of WSC, Inc. for approximately $34 million, strengthening its position in the commercial nuclear power and process plant simulation technology market within the Naval & Power segment.
03—One dollar
Follow one dollar
Of each $1.00 of revenue in Q1 FY2024, Curtiss Wright Corp kept $0.11.
- Revenue$713.2M100.0%
- Cost of revenue−$459.4M64.4%
- Gross profit$253.8M35.6%
- Operating costs−$153.8M21.6%
- Operating income$100.0M14.0%
- Interest, other & tax−$23.5M3.3%
- Net income$76.5M10.7%
04—Financials
Financial Highlights
Figures from 10-QQ1 FY2024filed May 2, 2024Financial Statements
Q1 FY2024 against Q1 FY2023
| Line item | Q1 FY2024Q1 FY2023 | Change |
|---|---|---|
| Revenue | $713.17M$630.86M | +13.0% |
| Cost of Revenue | $459.41M$409.45M | +12.2% |
| Gross Profit | $253.75M$221.41M | +14.6% |
| R&D Expenses | $22.98M$22.02M | +4.3% |
| Operating Income | $99.96M$78.61M | +27.2% |
| Interest Expense | $10.57M$12.94M | −18.3% |
| Net Income | $76.50M$56.85M | +34.6% |
| EPS (Basic) | $2.00$1.48 | +35.1% |
| EPS (Diluted) | $1.99$1.48 | +34.5% |
| Shares Outstanding (Basic) | 38.25M38.30M | −0.1% |
| Shares Outstanding (Diluted) | 38.43M38.52M | −0.2% |
05—Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the main drivers of Curtiss-Wright's revenue growth in Q1 2024?
Revenue growth was primarily driven by strong performance across all segments, with a particular surge in the Defense Electronics segment (+31%). Key contributing factors include increased demand for tactical battlefield communications equipment, embedded computing for various defense platforms, and commercial aerospace products. Aerospace & Defense markets as a whole grew by 20%.
How did the company's profitability change compared to the previous year?
Profitability saw a significant improvement. Net earnings increased by 35% to $76.5 million, and operating income rose by 27% to $100 million. This was supported by favorable absorption on higher sales, a better product mix in Defense Electronics, and disciplined cost management, leading to an improved operating margin of 14.0%.
What is the outlook for future revenue based on new orders?
The company received new orders totaling $901.3 million in Q1 2024, a 26% increase year-over-year. This strong order book, particularly in naval defense and defense electronics, provides significant visibility and a positive outlook for future revenue streams.
Did Curtiss-Wright make any acquisitions during the quarter?
Yes, on April 1, 2024, Curtiss-Wright completed the acquisition of WSC, Inc. for approximately $34 million. WSC is a provider of simulation technology for commercial nuclear power generation and process plants and will operate within the Naval & Power segment.
06—Continue