Summary
Emerson Electric Co. (EMR) filed an 8-K on August 26, 2003, providing an update on its GAAP Underlying Orders for the three months ending July 2003. The report indicates a gradual but consistent improvement in order trends, with the total Emerson orders for the trailing three-month average remaining flat year-over-year, but showing an upward trend within the quarter. Favorable currency exchange rates provided a modest boost to July orders, contributing approximately 3-4 percent. The company noted underlying trends, excluding currency, acquisitions, and divestitures, were flat for the period, signaling stability despite some segment-specific challenges. Key segment performance shows mixed results. Process Control experienced a slowdown, particularly in North America, while Industrial Automation saw steady international demand tempered by North American weakness. Electronics and Telecommunications showed a positive turn, driven by OEM and systems business strength. HVAC orders were boosted by North American activity and continued Asian growth, while Appliance and Tools faced softness in commercial and mixed consumer business results. Overall, the filing suggests a period of stabilization with emerging strengths in specific sectors, indicating a potentially positive, albeit gradual, recovery.
Key Highlights
- 1Emerson Electric Co. reported GAAP Underlying Orders for the three months ending July 2003.
- 2Total Emerson orders for the trailing 3-month average were flat year-over-year, but underlying trends improved within the quarter.
- 3Favorable currency exchange rates positively impacted July orders by approximately 3-4%.
- 4Process Control orders were affected by softness in North America and short-cycle business.
- 5Electronics and Telecommunications orders turned positive, benefiting from OEM and systems business strength.
- 6HVAC orders showed increases in North America and continued strength in China and Asia.
- 7Appliance and Tools orders experienced softness in commercial businesses and mixed consumer results.