Hexcel Q4 2020 Earnings Report
Key Takeaways
Hexcel Corporation reported a significant decrease in sales and a negative EPS for Q4 2020, impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the challenges, the company maintained a strong liquidity position and generated positive free cash flow for the year.
Q4 2020 sales decreased to $295.8 million compared to $564.3 million in Q4 2019.
GAAP diluted EPS for Q4 2020 was ($0.23), and adjusted diluted EPS was ($0.18).
The company generated $104 million in free cash flow during the fourth quarter and $214 million for the full year 2020.
Hexcel maintained a strong liquidity position of $875 million, including $103 million in cash and an undrawn revolver balance of $772 million as of December 31, 2020.
Hexcel
Hexcel
Forward Guidance
Hexcel forecasts stabilizing demand moving into the second quarter of 2021, with potential for some narrowbody build rate recovery in the second half of the year. The company will continue to manage cash and costs tightly, focusing on delivering performance targets.
Positive Outlook
- Stabilizing demand is expected as we move into the second quarter of 2021.
- Inventory de-stocking process is expected to be largely winding down.
- Potential for some narrowbody build rate recovery as we progress into the second half of the year.
- Overall long-term demand for aircraft and advanced composites technology remains robust.
- Potential for a significant upturn in 2022 and beyond continues to look positive.
Challenges Ahead
- The third and fourth quarters of 2020, along with the first quarter of 2021, have been and are expected to be the most challenging during this market downturn.
- Sales mix and reduced overhead absorption continue to be significant headwinds.
- There is no room for complacency during this pandemic.
- A quick and successful rollout of the vaccines is crucial to a significant increase in airline passenger traffic.
- The Company continues to withhold financial guidance due to the market uncertainties arising from the global pandemic.