FreightCar America, Inc. Celebrates Strong 2024 Financial Performance
Financial Growth Highlights of FreightCar America, Inc.
Achieves significant yearly revenue increase of 56%.
Projected growth across multiple financial categories for upcoming year.
Fourth Quarter Achievements
FreightCar America, Inc. (NASDAQ: RAIL), a prominent manufacturer and supplier of railroad freight cars and components, reported impressive results for the fourth quarter of 2024. The company reported revenues totaling $137.7 million, marking an 8.8% increase from $126.6 million in the same quarter of the previous year.
Key Highlights from Q4 2024
- Stable railcar deliveries reached 1,019 units.
- Gross margin expanded to 15.3%, with a gross profit of $21.0 million.
- Net income soared to $34.6 million, equating to $1.01 per share, primarily influenced by a $26.1 million non-cash adjustment related to warrant liabilities.
- Adjusted EBITDA surged by 113.8% to $13.9 million compared to $6.5 million from the previous year.
- Concluded the quarter with a backlog of 2,797 units, valued at approximately $266.5 million.
Full Year 2024 Summary
The fiscal year 2024 brought substantial growth for FreightCar America. Total revenues reached $559.4 million, reflecting a remarkable year-over-year increase of 56.2%. This growth is attributed to the delivery of 4,362 railcars, a notable 44.3% year-over-year rise.
Yearly Performance Insights
- Gross margin improved to 12.0%, resulting in a gross profit of $67.0 million.
- Despite reporting a net loss of $75.8 million or ($3.12) per share, adjusted net income stood at $24.5 million or $0.15 per share.
- Adjusted EBITDA for the year skyrocketed by 113.9% to $43.0 million compared to $20.1 million in 2023.
- Positive free cash flow was achieved, alongside significant balance sheet optimization through more affordable refinancing strategies, anticipated to yield $9.2 million in savings in the first year.
- Marked entry into the tank car segment with a significant multi-year conversion contract.
Strategic Comments from Leadership
Nick Randall, President and CEO, expressed, "The year displayed exceptional operational performance as we executed on our strategic initiatives aimed at driving sustainable growth and profitability. Our efforts have been rewarded with a 114% increase in Adjusted EBITDA, showcasing our market development strategy and robust capital management."
Looking Ahead: Fiscal Year 2025 Projections
FreightCar America has shared a promising outlook for the fiscal year 2025, aiming for:
- Between 4,500 and 4,900 railcar deliveries.
- Revenue expectations ranging from $530 million to $595 million.
- Target Adjusted EBITDA between $43 million and $49 million.
Mike Riordan, CFO, elaborated, "With an enhanced capital structure and unwavering commitment to operational excellence, we are well-positioned to create long-term value while consistently generating free cash flow, enabling us to pursue strategic capital allocation priorities."
Conference Participation
The Company will conduct a conference call on March 13 to discuss its financial outcomes for the fourth quarter and full year 2024.
About FreightCar America
FreightCar America, Inc., renowned for designing and producing railroad freight cars, has established itself as a vital contributor to the North American supply chain since 1901. The company specializes in railcar repairs and revitalization initiatives for dormant rail assets, ensuring their return to revenue-generating service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the main financial highlights for Q4 2024?
FreightCar America reported revenues of $137.7 million, a gross profit of $21 million, and net income of $34.6 million.
How did the company perform over the fiscal year 2024?
For the full year, the company achieved revenues of $559.4 million with an adjusted EBITDA of $43 million, despite a net loss reported.
What are the projections for 2025?
Total revenue projections for 2025 range between $530 million and $595 million, with planned railcar deliveries between 4,500 and 4,900 units.
Who is the CEO of FreightCar America?
Nick Randall is the President and Chief Executive Officer of FreightCar America, Inc.
What markets does FreightCar America serve?
FreightCar America serves the North American railcar manufacturing market, focusing on freight cars, railcar components, and repair services.
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