Johnson Matthey Faces Setback with Disappointing H1 Performance

Johnson Matthey Faces Setback with Disappointing H1 Performance

Shares of Johnson Matthey (LON:JMAT) took a notable plunge following the release of the company's results for the first half of fiscal 2025. A decline of 4.5% was observed, raising concerns among investors about the company's financial health as it fell short of market expectations.

Weaker Than Anticipated Results

Johnson Matthey reported an underlying EBIT of £156 million, marking a significant 13% decrease year-over-year. This figure was not only below the company's previous year performance but also 13% less than the consensus estimate of £179 million, indicating a tough environment for their operations.

Sales Performance

Total sales, excluding metal, registered at £1,722 million. This represents a 3% drop compared to the previous year and is 7% lower than what analysts had projected, which was set at £1,860 million. This sales shortfall signals potential difficulties in demand within the company's markets.

Division Performance Insights

Breaking down the figures revealed that the PGM Services and Value Businesses divisions bore the brunt of the earnings miss. The PGM Services division, in particular, experienced an alarming 35% drop in EBIT, landing at £51 million—far from the £74 million expected. Contributing factors included reduced auto scrap volumes and lower metal recovery rates.

Value Business Challenges

In the Value Businesses division, EBIT fell sharply to just £2 million, an 86% decrease from the prior year. The closure of the Medical Device Components business has clearly impacted this sector.

Some Positive Highlights

In contrast to the struggles faced in other areas, the Clean Air division delivered EBIT of £121 million, only 2% lower than last year and very close to expectations. This slight underperformance was mitigated by stringent cost-saving efforts. Additionally, Catalyst Technologies stood out, with EBIT increasing by 43% to £50 million—significantly over the anticipated £40 million—driven by higher average prices and strong demand, particularly in China.

Challenges in Hydrogen Technologies

The Hydrogen Technologies division reported an EBIT loss of £26 million, aligning with projections but exceeding expectations of a £21 million deficit. The confidence in the division remains, as the company anticipates reaching a break-even point by FY26, despite ongoing hurdles.

Financial Health Review

The cash flow situation raised eyebrows, with free cash flow showing an outflow of £149 million, compared to the previous year’s £97 million. This worsening situation was attributed to declining profitability, a substantial working capital outflow, and increased capital expenditures.

Dividend Announcement and Future Guidance

Despite these challenges, Johnson Matthey announced an interim dividend of 22p per share, consistent with the previous year’s payout. Additionally, the company reaffirmed its fiscal 2025 guidance, anticipating at least mid-single-digit EBIT growth, excluding the Value Businesses. However, they acknowledged the potential impact of foreign exchange fluctuations and metal prices, which could reduce earnings by around £13 million.

Path Forward

Johnson Matthey indicated that their cost-saving initiatives are progressing well, with £155 million of the targeted £200 million already achieved. With collective strategies in place, management expressed optimism for stronger profitability in the latter part of the fiscal year. They expect to benefit from increased volumes, improved metal recoveries, and ongoing transformation projects.

Outlook for FY25

For the second half of FY25, the company suggested an EBIT of approximately £255 million, which would indicate a 12% increase from the previous year and surpass the consensus estimate of £235 million. While this projection reflects management’s confidence in recovery, analysts highlight that realizing these expectations will depend on improvements in the PGM Services division and effective implementation of cost-saving measures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main reasons for Johnson Matthey's share drop?

The share drop can be attributed to weaker-than-expected results, particularly in the PGM Services and Value Businesses divisions, leading to lower EBIT and sales.

What is the current EBIT for Johnson Matthey?

Johnson Matthey reported an underlying EBIT of £156 million for the first half of fiscal 2025, which is a 13% decline from the previous year.

What challenges is Johnson Matthey facing?

The company is facing challenges such as reduced scrap volumes, lower metal recovery rates, and declining profitability which has impacted cash flow.

How does the company plan to improve its financial position?

They plan to improve their financial position through cost-saving initiatives, with £155 million already achieved, and by aiming for stronger profitability in the second half of the year.

What is the outlook for the second half of FY25?

Johnson Matthey anticipates an EBIT of approximately £255 million for the second half of FY25, indicating a 12% year-over-year increase and exceeding pre-results consensus expectations.

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