The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
8
Howmet Aerospace Inc. and subsidiaries
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)
(U.S. dollars in millions, except share and per-share amounts)
A. Basis of Presentation
The interim Consolidated Financial Statements of Howmet Aerospace Inc. and its subsidiaries (“Howmet” or the “Company” or “we” or “our”) are unaudited. These Consolidated Financial Statements include all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, considered necessary by management to fairly state the Company’s results of operations, financial position, and cash flows. The results reported in these Consolidated Financial Statements are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the entire year. The 2023 year-end balance sheet data was derived from audited financial statements but does not include all disclosures required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). This Form 10-Q report should be read in conjunction with the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 (the “Form 10-K”), which includes all disclosures required by GAAP. Certain amounts in previously issued financial statements were reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.
In the nine months ended September 30, 2024, the Company derived approximately 52% of its revenue from products sold to the commercial aerospace market which is less than the pre-pandemic 2019 annual rate of approximately 60%. Aircraft production in the commercial aerospace industry continues to recover based on increases in demand for narrow body and wide body aircraft. We expect our commercial aerospace wide body and narrow body demand, including engine spares, also to continue to grow. Quality control issues at The Boeing Company (“Boeing”) are expected to negatively impact narrow body and wide body production rates in the near term. For instance, the Federal Aviation Administration stated that it will not approve production rate increases or additional production lines for the Boeing 737 MAX until it is satisfied that Boeing is in full compliance with required quality control procedures. In addition, a labor union work stoppage at Boeing has negatively impacted results. Boeing production levels have a material impact on the financial performance of Howmet. The timing and level of future aircraft builds by original equipment manufacturers are subject to changes and uncertainties, which may cause our future results to differ from prior periods due to changes in product mix in certain segments.
The preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company in conformity with GAAP requires management to make certain judgments, estimates, and assumptions. These estimates are based on historical experience and, in some cases, assumptions based on current and future market expectations, including considerations relating to changes in the aerospace industry. The impact of these changes, including the macroeconomic considerations, remains highly uncertain. Management has made its best estimates using all relevant information available at the time, but it is possible that our estimates will differ from our actual results and affect the Consolidated Financial Statements in future periods and potentially require adverse adjustments to the recoverability of goodwill, intangible and long-lived assets, the realizability of deferred tax assets and other judgments and estimations and assumptions.
B. Recently Adopted and Recently Issued Accounting Guidance
Adopted
In September 2022, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued guidance to enhance the transparency of disclosures regarding supplier finance programs (See Note Q). These changes became effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022, including interim periods within those fiscal years, except for the amendment on rollforward information, which is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023.
Issued
In November 2024, the FASB issued guidance to improve disclosures about an entity’s expenses including more detailed information about the components of expenses in commonly presented expense captions. These changes become effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2026, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2027. Management is currently evaluating the impact of these changes on the Consolidated Financial Statements.
In December 2023, the FASB issued guidance to enhance the transparency of income tax disclosures including additional details on the rate reconciliation and taxes paid by jurisdiction. These changes become effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024. Management is currently evaluating the impact of these changes on the Consolidated Financial Statements.
In November 2023, the FASB issued guidance to enhance disclosures related to significant segment expenses and other matters related to reportable segments. These changes become effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024. Management is currently evaluating the impact of these changes on the Consolidated Financial Statements.
9
C. Segment Information
Howmet is a global leader in lightweight metals engineering and manufacturing. Howmet’s innovative, multi-material products, which include nickel, titanium, aluminum, and cobalt, are used worldwide in the aerospace (commercial and defense), commercial transportation, and industrial and other markets. Segment performance under Howmet’s management reporting system is evaluated based on a number of factors; however, the primary measure of performance is Segment Adjusted EBITDA. Howmet’s definition of Segment Adjusted EBITDA (Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) is net margin plus an add-back for depreciation and amortization. Net margin is equivalent to Sales minus the following items: Cost of goods sold; Selling, general administrative, and other expenses; Research and development expenses; and Provision for depreciation and amortization. Special items, including Restructuring and other (credits) charges, are excluded from net margin and Segment Adjusted EBITDA. Segment Adjusted EBITDA may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies. Differences between the total segment and consolidated totals are in Corporate.
Howmet’s operations consist of four worldwide reportable segments as follows:
Engine Products
Engine Products produces investment castings, including airfoils, and seamless rolled rings primarily for aircraft engines and industrial gas turbine applications. Engine Products produces rotating parts as well as structural parts.
Fastening Systems
Fastening Systems produces aerospace fastening systems, as well as commercial transportation, industrial and other fasteners. The business’s high-tech, multi-material fastening systems are found nose to tail on aircraft and aero engines. Fastening Systems’ products are also critical components of commercial transportation vehicles, and construction, industrial, and renewable energy equipment.
Engineered Structures
Engineered Structures produces titanium ingots and mill products for aerospace and defense applications and is vertically integrated to produce titanium forgings, extrusions, forming and machining services for airframe, wing, aero-engine, and landing gear components. Engineered Structures also produces aluminum forgings, nickel forgings, and aluminum machined components and assemblies for aerospace and defense applications.
Forged Wheels
Forged Wheels provides forged aluminum wheels and related products for heavy-duty trucks and the commercial transportation market.
10
The operating results of the Company’s reportable segments were as follows:
Engine Products
Fastening Systems
Engineered Structures
Forged Wheels
Total Segment
Third quarter ended September 30, 2024
Sales:
Third-party sales
$
945
$
392
$
253
$
245
$
1,835
Inter-segment sales
3
—
3
—
6
Total sales
$
948
$
392
$
256
$
245
$
1,841
Profit and loss:
Provision for depreciation and amortization
$
34
$
12
$
10
$
10
$
66
Segment Adjusted EBITDA
307
102
38
64
511
Restructuring and other charges
1
1
1
1
4
Capital expenditures
55
5
5
14
79
Third quarter ended September 30, 2023
Sales:
Third-party sales
$
798
$
348
$
227
$
285
$
1,658
Inter-segment sales
5
—
—
—
5
Total sales
$
803
$
348
$
227
$
285
$
1,663
Profit and loss:
Provision for depreciation and amortization
$
33
$
12
$
12
$
10
$
67
Segment Adjusted EBITDA
219
76
30
77
402
Restructuring and other charges
—
1
1
—
2
Capital expenditures
30
9
6
9
54
Engine Products
Fastening Systems
Engineered Structures
Forged Wheels
Total Segment
Nine months ended September 30, 2024
Sales:
Third-party sales
$
2,763
$
1,175
$
790
$
811
$
5,539
Inter-segment sales
6
—
7
—
13
Total sales
$
2,769
$
1,175
$
797
$
811
$
5,552
Profit and loss:
Provision for depreciation and amortization
$
100
$
36
$
32
$
30
$
198
Segment Adjusted EBITDA
848
295
115
221
1,479
Restructuring and other charges
—
3
15
1
19
Capital expenditures
143
17
16
35
211
Nine months ended September 30, 2023
Sales:
Third-party sales
$
2,414
$
989
$
634
$
872
$
4,909
Inter-segment sales
12
—
1
—
13
Total sales
$
2,426
$
989
$
635
$
872
$
4,922
Profit and loss:
Provision for depreciation and amortization
$
97
$
35
$
36
$
29
$
197
Segment Adjusted EBITDA
654
198
80
237
1,169
Restructuring and other (credits) charges
(1)
1
7
—
7
Capital expenditures
84
23
21
25
153
11
The following table reconciles Total Segment Adjusted EBITDA to Income before income taxes. Differences between the total segment and consolidated totals are in Corporate.
Third quarter ended
Nine months ended
September 30,
September 30,
2024
2023
2024
2023
Total Segment Adjusted EBITDA
$
511
$
402
$
1,479
$
1,169
Segment provision for depreciation and amortization
(66)
(67)
(198)
(197)
Unallocated amounts:
Restructuring and other credits (charges)
1
(4)
(21)
(8)
Corporate expense
(25)
(24)
(72)
(87)
Operating income
$
421
$
307
$
1,188
$
877
Loss on debt redemption
(6)
—
(6)
(1)
Interest expense, net
(44)
(54)
(142)
(166)
Other expense, net
(17)
(11)
(49)
(5)
Income before income taxes
$
354
$
242
$
991
$
705
The following table reconciles total segment capital expenditures with Capital expenditures as presented in the Statement of Consolidated Cash Flows.
Third quarter ended
Nine months ended
September 30,
September 30,
2024
2023
2024
2023
Total segment capital expenditures
$
79
$
54
$
211
$
153
Corporate
3
5
8
11
Capital expenditures
$
82
$
59
$
219
$
164
12
The following table disaggregates segment revenue by major market served. Differences between the total segment and consolidated totals are in Corporate.
Engine Products
Fastening Systems
Engineered Structures
Forged Wheels
Total Segment
Third quarter ended September 30, 2024
Aerospace - Commercial
$
534
$
245
$
183
$
—
$
962
Aerospace - Defense
189
43
57
—
289
Commercial Transportation
—
65
—
245
310
Industrial and Other
222
39
13
—
274
Total end-market revenue
$
945
$
392
$
253
$
245
$
1,835
Third quarter ended September 30, 2023
Aerospace - Commercial
$
446
$
209
$
165
$
—
$
820
Aerospace - Defense
165
41
45
—
251
Commercial Transportation
—
67
—
285
352
Industrial and Other
187
31
17
—
235
Total end-market revenue
$
798
$
348
$
227
$
285
$
1,658
Nine months ended September 30, 2024
Aerospace - Commercial
$
1,554
$
740
$
575
$
—
$
2,869
Aerospace - Defense
566
119
174
—
859
Commercial Transportation
—
199
—
811
1,010
Industrial and Other
643
117
41
—
801
Total end-market revenue
$
2,763
$
1,175
$
790
$
811
$
5,539
Nine months ended September 30, 2023
Aerospace - Commercial
$
1,324
$
563
$
458
$
—
$
2,345
Aerospace - Defense
502
131
131
—
764
Commercial Transportation
—
192
—
872
1,064
Industrial and Other
588
103
45
—
736
Total end-market revenue
$
2,414
$
989
$
634
$
872
$
4,909
The Company derived 67% and 63% of its revenue from the aerospace (commercial and defense) markets for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
On April 2, 2024, General Electric Company, one of our largest customers, completed the spin-off of its energy-focused business into GE Vernova, a new publicly traded company. Since then, General Electric Company operates as GE Aerospace. GE Aerospace and RTX Corporation each represented approximately 10% of the Company’s third-party sales in the nine months ended September 30, 2024. General Electric Company and RTX Corporation represented approximately 13% and 10%, respectively, of the Company’s third-party sales in the nine months ended September 30, 2023. These sales were primarily from the Engine Products segment.
13
D. Restructuring and Other (Credits) Charges
Third quarter ended
Nine months ended
September 30,
September 30,
2024
2023
2024
2023
Layoff costs
$
1
$
1
$
8
$
1
Reversals of previously recorded layoff reserves
(1)
—
(1)
(1)
Pension and Other post-retirement benefits - net settlements (E)
—
2
—
5
Net (gain) loss related to divestitures of assets and businesses (P)
(1)
—
12
—
Other
—
1
2
3
Total restructuring and other (credits) charges
$
(1)
$
4
$
21
$
8
In the third quarter of 2024, the Company recorded Restructuring and other credits of $1, which were primarily due to a $1 gain related to the resolution of post-closing adjustments from the May 2024 sale of a small U.K. manufacturing facility in Engineered Structures and a reversal of $1 for a layoff reserve related to a prior period, partially offset by a $1 charge for layoff costs.
In the nine months ended September 30, 2024, the Company recorded Restructuring and other (credits) charges of $21, which were primarily due to a net loss on the sale of a small U.K. manufacturing facility in Engineered Structures of $13, an $8 charge for layoff costs, including the separation of 293 employees (144 in Fastening Systems, 111 in Engineered Structures and 38 in Forged Wheels), and exit related costs, including accelerated depreciation, of $2, partially offset by a gain on the sale of assets at a small U.K. manufacturing facility in Engine Products of $1 and a reversal of $1 for a layoff reserve related to a prior period.
In the third quarter of 2023, the Company recorded Restructuring and other (credits) charges of $4, which were primarily due to charges for a Canadian pension plan settlement of $2, layoff charges of $1, and exit related costs, including accelerated depreciation of $1.
In thenine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company recorded Restructuring and other (credits) charges of $8, which were primarily due to charges for a U.S. and Canadian pension plan settlements of $5, exit related costs, including accelerated depreciation of $3, and layoff charges of $1, partially offset by a reversal of $1 for a layoff reserve related to a prior period.
Layoff costs
Other exit costs
Total
Reserve balances at December 31, 2023
$
5
$
2
$
7
Cash payments
(6)
(1)
(7)
Restructuring charges
7
14
21
Other(1)
—
(14)
(14)
Reserve balances at September 30, 2024
$
6
$
1
$
7
(1)In the nine months ended September 30, 2024, other for other exit costs included a net loss of $13 on the sale of a small U.K. manufacturing facility and a charge of $2 for accelerated depreciation, partially offset by a gain on the sale of assets at a small U.K. manufacturing facility in Engine Products of $1.
The remaining reserves as of September 30, 2024 are expected to be paid in cash during the remainder of 2024 and 2025.
14
E. Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits
The components of net periodic cost (benefit) were as follows:
Third quarter ended
Nine months ended
September 30,
September 30,
2024
2023
2024
2023
Pension benefits
Service cost
$
1
$
—
$
2
$
2
Interest cost
18
20
56
60
Expected return on plan assets
(17)
(18)
(52)
(55)
Recognized net actuarial loss
9
7
25
21
Settlements
—
2
—
5
Net periodic cost(1)
$
11
$
11
$
31
$
33
Other postretirement benefits
Service cost
$
—
$
1
$
—
$
1
Interest cost
1
2
4
5
Recognized net actuarial gain
(1)
(1)
(2)
(2)
Amortization of prior service benefit
(2)
(3)
(7)
(7)
Net periodic benefit(1)
$
(2)
$
(1)
$
(5)
$
(3)
(1)Service cost was included within Cost of goods sold and Selling, general administrative, and other expenses; settlements were included in Restructuring and other (credits) charges; all other cost components were recorded in Other expense, net in the Statement of Consolidated Operations.
Pension benefits
In the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company applied settlement accounting to its Canadian pension plan due to lump sum payments made to participants, reducing gross pension obligations by $12. In June 2023, the Company also undertook additional actions to reduce gross pension obligations by $19 by purchasing group annuity contracts from a third-party carrier to pay and administer future annuity payments of a U.S. pension plan. Settlement charges of $2 and $5 were recognized in the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2023, respectively. All settlement charges were recorded in Restructuring and other (credits) charges in the Statement of Consolidated Operations.
For the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2024, Howmet’s combined pension contributions and other postretirement benefit payments were approximately $19 and $41, respectively. For the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2023, Howmet’s combined pension contributions and other postretirement benefit payments were approximately $9 and $28, respectively.
F. Other Expense, Net
Third quarter ended
Nine months ended
September 30,
September 30,
2024
2023
2024
2023
Non-service costs - pension and other postretirement benefits (E)
$
8
$
7
$
24
$
22
Interest income
(4)
(5)
(15)
(15)
Foreign currency losses, net
2
5
9
3
Net realized and unrealized losses
5
6
18
17
Deferred compensation
6
(1)
14
5
Other, net
—
(1)
(1)
(27)
Total other expense, net
$
17
$
11
$
49
$
5
In the nine months ended September 30, 2023, Other, net primarily includes the reversal of $25, net of legal fees of $1, of the $65 pre-tax charge taken in the third quarter of 2022 related to the Lehman Brothers International (Europe) legal proceeding (See Note Q) due to the final settlement of such proceeding in June 2023.
15
G. Income Taxes
The Company’s year-to-date tax provision is comprised of the most recent estimated annual effective tax rate applied to year-to-date pre-tax ordinary income. The tax impacts of unusual or infrequently occurring items, including changes in judgment about valuation allowances and effects of changes in tax laws or rates, are recorded discretely in the interim period in which they occur. In addition, the tax provision is adjusted for the interim period impact of non-benefited pre-tax losses.
The estimated annual effective tax rate, before discrete items, applied to ordinary income was 20.9% in both the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2024, and 23.0% in both the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2023. The 2024 rate was lower than the 2023 rate and the U.S. federal statutory rate of 21% primarily due to a net benefit related to U.S. federal and state research and development (“R&D”) credits, a U.S. deduction on Foreign Derived Intangible Income (“FDII”), and a U.S. tax benefit recognized for foreign tax credits, partially offset by additional U.S. tax on Global Intangible Low-Taxed Income (“GILTI”), incremental state tax, nondeductible expenses, and foreign earnings subject to tax in jurisdictions with tax rates higher than the U.S. federal statutory rate of 21%. The 2023 rate was higher than the U.S. federal statutory rate of 21% primarily due to additional U.S. tax on GILTI and other foreign earnings, incremental state tax and foreign taxes on earnings also subject to U.S. federal income tax, nondeductible expenses, and foreign earnings subject to tax in jurisdictions with tax rates higher than the U.S. federal statutory rate of 21%.
For the third quarter of 2024 and 2023, the tax rate including discrete items was 6.2% and 22.3%, respectively. In the third quarter of 2024, the Company recorded a discrete net tax benefit of $46 primarily attributable to a $44 net benefit related to additional U.S. federal and state R&D credits claimed for prior years upon completion of the Company’s R&D study, the substantial portion of which are U.S. federal credits which have been approved under audit by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, and a $2 excess tax benefit for stock compensation. In the third quarter of 2023, the Company recorded a discrete net tax benefit of $1 for other small items.
For the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, the tax rate including discrete items was 15.1% and 25.0%, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, the Company recorded a discrete net tax benefit of $58 primarily attributable to a $44 net benefit related to additional U.S. federal and state R&D credits claimed for prior years upon completion of the Company’s R&D study, the substantial portion of which are U.S. federal credits which have been approved under audit by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, a $9 excess tax benefit for stock compensation, a $6 benefit to release a valuation allowance related to U.S. foreign tax credits, and a net tax charge of $1 for other small items. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company recorded a discrete net tax charge of $13 attributable to a $20 charge for a tax reserve established in France (See Note Q) and a net tax charge of $1 for other small items, reduced by an $8 excess tax benefit for stock compensation.
The tax provision was comprised of the following:
Third quarter ended
Nine months ended
September 30,
September 30,
2024
2023
2024
2023
Pre-tax income at estimated annual effective income tax rate before discrete items
$
74
$
55
$
207
$
162
Impact of change in estimated annual effective tax rate on previous quarter’s pre-tax income
(5)
—
—
—
Interim period treatment of operational losses in foreign jurisdictions for which no tax benefit is recognized
Basic earnings per share (“EPS”) amounts are computed by dividing earnings, after the deduction of preferred stock dividends declared, by the average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted EPS amounts assume the issuance of common stock for all potentially dilutive share equivalents outstanding.
The information used to compute basic and diluted EPS attributable to Howmet common shareholders was as follows (shares in millions in the table below):
Third quarter ended
Nine months ended
September 30,
September 30,
2024
2023
2024
2023
Net income
$
332
$
188
$
841
$
529
Less: preferred stock dividends declared
1
1
2
2
Net income available to Howmet Aerospace common shareholders - basic and diluted
$
331
$
187
$
839
$
527
Average shares outstanding - basic
408
412
408
412
Effect of dilutive securities:
Stock and performance awards
2
3
3
5
Average shares outstanding - diluted
410
415
411
417
Common stock outstanding as of September 30, 2024 and 2023 was 407,129,690 and 411,742,755, respectively.
The following table provides details for share repurchases made for the periods presented:
Number of shares
Average price per share(1)
Total
Q1 2024 open market repurchase
2,243,259
$
66.87
$
150
Q2 2024 open market repurchase
734,737
$
81.66
$
60
Q3 2024 open market repurchase
1,061,323
$
94.22
$
100
2024 Share repurchases as of September 30, 2024
4,039,319
$
76.75
$
310
Q1 2023 open market repurchase
576,629
$
43.36
$
25
Q2 2023 open market repurchase
2,246,294
$
44.52
$
100
Q3 2023 open market repurchase
506,800
$
49.32
$
25
2023 Share repurchases as of September 30, 2023
3,329,723
$
45.05
$
150
(1)Excludes commissions cost.
The Company has a share repurchase program (the “Share Repurchase Program”) that, after giving effect to the additional $90 share repurchases made in October 2024 at an average price per share of $103.15, retiring approximately 0.9 million shares, has approximately $2,297 in Board authorization remaining available as of October 31, 2024. The current Share Repurchase Program was authorized by the Company’s Board of Directors on August 18, 2021 at $1,500, which was increased by the Board by $2,000 on July 30, 2024. Under the Company’s Share Repurchase Program, the Company may repurchase shares by means of trading plans established from time to time in accordance with Rule 10b5-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, block trades, private transactions, open market repurchases and/or accelerated share repurchase agreements, or other derivative transactions. There is no stated expiration for the Share Repurchase Program. Under its Share Repurchase Program, the Company may repurchase shares from time to time, in amounts, at prices, and at such times as the Company deems appropriate, subject to market conditions, legal requirements and other considerations. The Company is not obligated to repurchase any specific number of shares or to do so at any particular time, and the Share Repurchase Program may be suspended, modified, or terminated at any time without prior notice.
As average shares outstanding are used in the calculation for both basic and diluted EPS, the full impact of share repurchases and issuances was not fully realized in EPS in the period of repurchase or issuance since share activity may occur at varying points during a period.
17
There were no shares relating to outstanding stock options excluded from the calculation of average shares outstanding - diluted for the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023.
Common stock dividends declared were $0.16 per share in the third quarter of 2024 (of which $0.08 per share were paid) and $0.26 per share in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 (of which $0.18 per share were paid). Common stock dividends declared were $0.09 per share in the third quarter of 2023 (of which $0.04 per share were paid) and $0.17 per share in the nine months ended September 30, 2023 (of which $0.12 per share were paid).
I. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
The following table details the activity of the three components that comprise Accumulated other comprehensive loss:
Unrecognized net actuarial gain and prior service benefit
4
7
3
7
Tax expense
(1)
(1)
(1)
(1)
Total Other comprehensive income before reclassifications, net of tax
3
6
2
6
Amortization of net actuarial loss and prior service benefit(1)
6
5
16
17
Tax expense(2)
(1)
(1)
(3)
(4)
Total amount reclassified from Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax(3)
5
4
13
13
Total Other comprehensive income
8
10
15
19
Balance at end of period
$
(674)
$
(634)
$
(674)
$
(634)
Foreign currency translation
Balance at beginning of period
$
(1,177)
$
(1,155)
$
(1,136)
$
(1,193)
Other comprehensive income (loss)(4)
71
(56)
30
(18)
Balance at end of period
$
(1,106)
$
(1,211)
$
(1,106)
$
(1,211)
Cash flow hedges
Balance at beginning of period
$
1
$
(9)
$
(5)
$
5
Other comprehensive (loss) income:
Net change from periodic revaluations
(25)
1
(22)
(13)
Tax benefit
6
—
5
3
Total Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, net of tax
(19)
1
(17)
(10)
Net amount reclassified to earnings
1
4
6
—
Tax expense(2)
(1)
(1)
(2)
—
Total amount reclassified from Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax(3)
—
3
4
—
Total Other comprehensive (loss) income
(19)
4
(13)
(10)
Balance at end of period
$
(18)
$
(5)
$
(18)
$
(5)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
$
(1,798)
$
(1,850)
$
(1,798)
$
(1,850)
(1)These amounts were recorded in Restructuring and other (credits) charges (See Note D) and Other expense, net (See Note F) in the Statement of Consolidated Operations.
(2)These amounts were included in Provision for income taxes (See Note G) in the Statement of Consolidated Operations.
(3)A positive amount indicates a corresponding charge to earnings and a negative amount indicates a corresponding benefit to earnings.
(4)In all periods presented, no amounts were reclassified to earnings.
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J. Receivables
Sale of Receivables Programs
The Company maintains an accounts receivables securitization arrangement through a wholly-owned special purpose entity (“SPE”). The net cash funding from the sale of accounts receivable was neither a use of cash nor a source of cash for the third quarter or nine months ended September 30, 2024 or September 30, 2023.
The accounts receivables securitization arrangement is one in which the Company, through an SPE, has a receivables purchase agreement (the “Receivables Purchase Agreement”) pursuant to which the SPE may sell certain receivables to financial institutions until the earlier of January 2, 2026 or a termination event. The Receivables Purchase Agreement contains customary representations and warranties, as well as affirmative and negative covenants. Pursuant to the Receivables Purchase Agreement, the Company does not maintain effective control over the transferred receivables, and therefore accounts for these transfers as sales of receivables. The Receivables Purchase Agreement also contains a provision that allows the Company to increase the limit to $325.
The facility limit under the Receivables Purchase Agreement was $250 as of both September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, of which $250 was drawn as of both September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023. As collateral against the sold receivables, the SPE maintains a certain level of unsold receivables, which were $231 and $197 as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.
The Company sold $503 and $1,233 of its receivables without recourse and received cash funding under this program during thethird quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2024, respectively, resulting in derecognition of the receivables from the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheet. The Company sold $439 and $1,158 of its receivables without recourse and received cash funding under the program during the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2023, respectively, resulting in derecognition of the receivables from the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheet. Costs associated with the sales of receivables are reflected in the Company’s Statement of Consolidated Operations for the periods in which the sales occur. Cash receipts from sold receivables under the Receivables Purchase Agreement are presented within operating activities in the Statement of Consolidated Cash Flows.
Other Customer Receivable Sales
In the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2024, the Company sold $172 and $517, respectively, of certain customers’ receivables in exchange for cash ($167 was outstanding from customers as of September 30, 2024), the proceeds from which are presented in changes in receivables within operating activities in the Statement of Consolidated Cash Flows. In the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company sold $140 and $429, respectively, of certain customers’ receivables in exchange for cash ($134 was outstanding from customers as of September 30, 2023), the proceeds from which are presented in changes in receivables within operating activities in the Statement of Consolidated Cash Flows.
K. Inventories
September 30, 2024
December 31, 2023
Finished goods
$
475
$
451
Work-in-process
923
891
Purchased raw materials
433
355
Operating supplies
71
68
Total inventories
$
1,902
$
1,765
As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the portion of inventories valued on a last-in, first-out (“LIFO”) basis was $505 and $446, respectively. If valued on an average-cost basis, total inventories would have been $265 and $236 higher as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.
19
L. Properties, Plants, and Equipment, net
September 30, 2024
December 31, 2023
Land and land rights
$
84
$
88
Structures
1,031
1,018
Machinery and equipment
4,173
4,079
5,288
5,185
Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization
3,193
3,081
2,095
2,104
Construction work-in-progress
263
224
Properties, plants, and equipment, net
$
2,358
$
2,328
The Company incurred capital expenditures which remained unpaid as of September 30, 2024 and September 30, 2023 of $71 and $44, respectively, which will result in cash outflows within investing activities in the Statement of Consolidated Cash Flows in subsequent periods.
M. Leases
Operating lease cost, which includes short-term leases and variable lease payments and approximates cash paid, was $18 and $16 in the third quarter of 2024 and 2023, respectively, and $50 and $48 in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
Operating lease right-of-use assets and lease liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheet were as follows:
September 30, 2024
December 31, 2023
Right-of-use assets classified in Other noncurrent assets
$
159
$
128
Current portion of lease liabilitiesclassified in Other current liabilities
$
38
$
32
Long-term portion of lease liabilities classified in Other noncurrent liabilities and deferred credits
122
97
Total lease liabilities
$
160
$
129
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N. Debt
September 30, 2024
December 31, 2023
5.125% Notes, due 2024
$
—
$
205
6.875% Notes, due 2025
—
600
USD Term Loan Facility, due 2026
200
200
JPY Term Loan Facility, due 2026
208
211
5.900% Notes, due 2027
625
625
6.750% Bonds, due 2028
300
300
3.000% Notes, due 2029
700
700
4.850% Notes, due 2031(1)
500
—
5.950% Notes, due 2037
625
625
4.750% Iowa Finance Authority Loan, due 2042
250
250
Other, net(2)
(14)
(10)
3,394
3,706
Less: amount due within one year
1
206
Total long-term debt
$
3,393
$
3,500
(1)The Company entered into a cross-currency swap to synthetically convert the 2031 Notes into a Euro liability of approximately €458 million with a fixed annual interest rate of 3.720%.
(2)Includes unamortized debt discounts and unamortized debt issuance costs related to outstanding notes and bonds listed in the table above and various financing arrangements related to subsidiaries.
Public Debt
In January 2023, the Company repurchased approximately $26 aggregate principal amount of the 5.125% Notes due October 2024 (the “2024 Notes”) through an open market repurchase (“OMR”). The OMR was settled at slightly less than par value.
On March 29, 2023, the Company completed the early partial redemption of an additional $150 aggregate principal amount of the 2024 Notes in accordance with the terms of the notes, and paid an aggregate of $155, including accrued interest and an early termination premium of approximately $4 and $1, respectively, which were recorded in Interest expense, net, and Loss on debt redemption, respectively, in the Statement of Consolidated Operations.
On September 28, 2023, the Company completed an early redemption of its outstanding 2024 Notes in the aggregate principal amount of $200. Such 2024 Notes were redeemed at par with cash on hand at an aggregate redemption price of approximately $205, including accrued interest of approximately $5.
In the second quarter of 2024, the Company repurchased approximately $23 aggregate principal amount of the 6.875% Notes due May 2025 (the “2025 Notes”) through an OMR. The OMR was settled at slightly more than par value.
On July 1, 2024, the Company completed the early redemption of all of the remaining outstanding principal amount of $205 of the 2024 Notes. The Company redeemed the 2024 Notes at par value plus accrued interest. The 2024 Notes were redeemed with cash on hand at an aggregate redemption price of approximately $208, including accrued interest of approximately $3.
On August 22, 2024, the Company completed an offering of $500 aggregate principal amount of the 4.850% Notes due October 2031 (the “2031 Notes”). The Company entered into a cross-currency swap to synthetically convert the 2031 Notes into a Euro liability of approximately €458 million. The fixed interest rate on the Euro liability is approximately 3.720% per annum.
On August 23, 2024, the Company completed the early redemption of all of the remaining outstanding principal amount of approximately $577 of its 2025 Notes in accordance with the terms of the notes. The Company completed the redemption with the net proceeds from the aforementioned offering of its 2031 Notes and cash on hand at an aggregate redemption price of approximately $594, including accrued interest and an early termination premium of approximately $12 and $5, respectively, which were recorded in Interest expense, net, and Loss on debt redemption, respectively, in the Statement of Consolidated Operations.
21
Term Loan Facilities
The Company maintains (i) a U.S. dollar-denominated, senior unsecured term loan facility (the “USD Term Loan Facility”) and (ii) a Japanese yen-denominated, senior unsecured term loan facility (the “JPY Term Loan Facility”), each of which matures on November 22, 2026 unless earlier terminated in accordance with the provisions of the applicable term loan agreement. The term loan agreements relating to these facilities contain respective covenants, including, among others, a limitation requiring the ratio of Consolidated Net Debt to Consolidated EBITDA (as defined in the agreements) as of the end of each fiscal quarter for the period of the four fiscal quarters most recently ended, to be less than or equal to 3.75 to 1.00. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the Company was in compliance with all covenants under the USD Term Loan Facility and JPY Term Loan Facility.
The amounts outstanding under the USD Term Loan Facility were $200 as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023. The amounts outstanding under the JPY Term Loan Facility were ¥29,702 million ($208) and ¥29,702 million ($211) as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. The Company has entered into interest rate swaps to exchange the floating interest rates of the USD Term Loan Facility and JPY Term Loan Facility to fixed annual interest rates of 5.795% and 2.044%, respectively.
Credit Facility
The Company has entered into a Five-Year Revolving Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) that provides a $1,000 senior unsecured revolving credit facility that matures on July 27, 2028. The Credit Agreement contains covenants, including, among others, a limitation requiring the ratio of Consolidated Net Debt to Consolidated EBITDA (as defined in the Credit Agreement) as of the end of each fiscal quarter for the period of the four fiscal quarters most recently ended, to be less than or equal to 3.75 to 1.00. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the Company was in compliance with all covenants under the Credit Agreement.
There were no amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement as of September 30, 2024 or December 31, 2023, and no amounts were borrowed during 2024 or 2023 under the Credit Agreement.
Commercial Paper
On April 4, 2024, the Company established a commercial paper program under which the Company may issue unsecured commercial paper notes (“commercial paper”) from time to time up to a maximum aggregate face amount of $1,000 outstanding at any time. The maturities of the commercial paper may vary but will not exceed 397 days from the date of issue and will rank equal in right of payment with all other unsecured senior indebtedness of the Company. The proceeds of the commercial paper will be used for general corporate purposes.
There were no amounts outstanding under the commercial paper program as of September 30, 2024.
O. Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The carrying values of Cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, derivatives, noncurrent receivables and Long-term debt due within one year included in the Consolidated Balance Sheet approximate their fair value. The aforementioned derivatives are included in Prepaid expenses and other current assets, Other noncurrent assets, Other current liabilities and Other noncurrent liabilities and deferred credits in the Consolidated Balance sheet, as applicable. The Company holds exchange-traded fixed income securities which are considered available-for-sale securities and are carried at fair value based on quoted market prices. The aforementioned securities are classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy and are included in Other noncurrent assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The fair value of Long-term debt, less amount due within one year, was based on quoted market prices for public debt and on interest rates that are currently available to Howmet for issuance of debt with similar terms and maturities for non-public debt. The fair value amounts for all Long-term debt were classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
September 30, 2024
December 31, 2023
Carrying value
Fair value
Carrying value
Fair value
Long-term debt
$
3,393
$
3,470
$
3,500
$
3,504
Restricted cash, which is included in Prepaid expenses and other current assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheet, was less than $1 as of both September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023.
22
P. Divestiture
2024 Divestiture
On May 31, 2024, the Company completed the sale of a small manufacturing facility in the U.K. within the Engineered Structures segment. The sale, including post-close adjustments, resulted in a year-to-date charge of $13 that was recorded in Restructuring and other (credits) charges in the Statement of Consolidated Operations.
Q. Contingencies, Commitments and Other Liabilities
Contingencies
The following information supplements and, as applicable, updates the discussion of the contingencies and commitments in Note U to the Consolidated Financial Statements in our Form 10-K, and should be read in conjunction with the complete descriptions provided in the Form 10-K.
Environmental Matters. Howmet participates in environmental assessments and/or cleanups at more than 30 locations. These include owned or operating facilities and adjoining properties, previously owned or operated facilities and adjoining properties, and waste sites, including Superfund (Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (“CERCLA”)) sites.
A liability is recorded for environmental remediation when a cleanup program becomes probable and the costs can be reasonably estimated. As assessments and cleanups proceed, the liability is adjusted based on progress made in determining the extent of remedial actions and related costs. The liability can change substantially due to factors such as the nature and extent of contamination, changes in remedial requirements, and technological changes, among others.
The Company’s remediation reserve balance was $19 and $17 as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively, and was recorded in Other noncurrent liabilities and deferred credits in the Consolidated Balance Sheet (of which $10 and $7, respectively, was classified as a current liability), and reflects the most probable costs to remediate identified environmental conditions for which costs can be reasonably estimated. Payments related to remediation expenses applied against the reserve were less than $1 and $2 in the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2024, respectively, and included expenditures currently mandated, as well as those not required by any regulatory authority or third party.
Included in annual operating expenses are the recurring costs of managing hazardous substances and environmental programs. These costs are estimated to be less than 1% of Cost of goods sold.
Tax. In December 2013 and 2014, the Company received audit assessment notices from the French Tax Authority (“FTA”) for the 2010 through 2012 tax years. In 2016, the Company appealed to the Committee of the Abuse of Tax Law, where it received a favorable nonbinding decision. The FTA disagreed with the Committee of the Abuse of Tax Law’s opinion, and the Company appealed to the Montreuil Administrative Court, where in 2020 the Company prevailed on the merits. The FTA appealed this decision to the Paris Administrative Court of Appeal in 2021. On March 31, 2023, the Company received an adverse decision from the Paris Administrative Court of Appeal. The Company appealed this decision to the French Administrative Supreme Court. The assessment amount was $17 (€16 million), including $10 (€9 million) of tax and interest up through 2017 and $7 (€7 million) of penalties. The Company estimates additional interest to be $2 (€2 million). On July 23, 2024, the Company received the French Administrative Supreme Court’s decision. That decision upheld the assessment of $10 (€9 million) of tax and interest, while cancelling the penalties of $7 (€7 million) and remanding the penalty assessment issue to the Paris Administrative Court of Appeal for reexamination. As a result, the Company has no further right to appeal the assessment of tax and interest but will continue to protest the penalties.
In 2023, the Company recorded an income tax reserve in Provision for income taxes in the Statement of Consolidated Operations of $21 (€19 million), which includes tax, estimated interest and penalties, for the 2010 through 2012 tax years, as well as the remaining tax years open for reassessment (2020-2023). In accordance with FTA dispute resolution practices, the Company paid the assessment amount including tax, interest, and penalties, to the FTA in December 2023. The Company is expecting to pay the additional interest related to the assessment in 2024. The Company also paid the estimated tax related to the 2020-2023 tax years during 2023. No changes were made to the income tax reserve as of June 30, 2024 as a result of the French Administrative Supreme Court’s decision. As of the start of the third quarter of 2024, the Company no longer records an uncertain tax position related to the tax and interest assessed. In October 2024, the Company received a refund of the penalties that were remanded. We will continue to record an income tax reserve for penalties determined more than likely to be upheld, until the uncertain tax position is settled.
23
Indemnified Matters. The Separation and Distribution Agreement, dated October 31, 2016, that the Company entered into with Alcoa Corporation in connection with its separation from Alcoa Corporation, provides for cross-indemnities between the Company and Alcoa Corporation for claims subject to indemnification. The Separation and Distribution Agreement, dated March 31, 2020, that the Company entered into with Arconic Corporation in connection with its separation from Arconic Corporation, provides for cross-indemnities between the Company and Arconic Corporation for claims subject to indemnification. To date, Alcoa Corporation and Arconic Corporation have fulfilled their respective indemnification obligations, and claims subject to indemnification by Alcoa Corporation or Arconic Corporation have not impacted the Company financially. Among other claims that are covered by these indemnities, Arconic Corporation indemnifies the Company (previously named Arconic Inc. and, prior to that, Alcoa Inc.) for all potential liabilities associated with the fire that occurred at the Grenfell Tower in London, U.K. on June 14, 2017, including the following legal proceedings, as updated from the Form 10-K:
Regulatory Investigations in the U.K.On September 4, 2024, the Public Inquiry ordered by the British government published its Phase 2 report on the Grenfell fire.
Raul v. Albaugh, et al.(derivative related claim). On October 22, 2024, the parties executed a settlement term sheet that set forth the material terms and conditions associated with the resolution of this derivative action. On October 28, 2024, the parties filed a joint status report regarding this development. On October 30, 2024, the court ordered that the parties file a joint status report or a stipulation of dismissal on or before November 28, 2024. The parties plan to enter into a formal, final Stipulation and Agreement of Settlement, Compromise, and Release in the near term, which will be presented to the court for approval.
With respect to the United Kingdom Litigation (various claims on behalf of survivors and estates of decedents) described in the Form 10-K, there are no updates.
Lehman Brothers International (Europe) Legal Proceeding. On June 26, 2020, Lehman Brothers International (Europe) (“LBIE”) filed proceedings in the High Court of Justice, Business and Property Courts of England and Wales against two subsidiaries of the Company, FR Acquisitions Corporation (Europe) Ltd and JFB Firth Rixson Inc. (collectively, the “Firth Rixson Entities”). The proceedings concerned two interest rate swap transactions that the Firth Rixson Entities entered into with LBIE in 2007 and 2008. On June 15, 2023, the Company, the Firth Rixson Entities, and LBIE reached a full and final settlement of all claims arising out of the LBIE legal proceeding. The settlement provided for a payment of $40: $15 paid in July 2023 and $25 paid in July 2024.
Lockheed Martin Corp v. Howmet Aerospace Inc. On November 30, 2023, Lockheed Martin Corporation (“Lockheed Martin”) filed a complaint in federal district court in the Northern District of Texas against the Company and its subsidiary RTI Advanced Forming, Inc. (“RTI”) as defendants. The complaint alleged that the Company and RTI breached a Master Purchase Order between Lockheed Martin and RTI related to the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter production program between Lockheed Martin and the United States government (the “F-35 Program”) by seeking a fair market price adjustment for the provision of titanium mill products under RTI’s separate agreements with Lockheed Martin’s subcontractors for the F-35 Program. Following various claims and counterclaims and court-ordered mediation, the parties reached a confidential settlement agreement on April 2, 2024, to supply until December 31, 2026 subject to revised terms mutually agreed to by the parties. The settlement had no material impact on the results of operations in the current year. The parties stipulated to the dismissal of all claims and counterclaims with prejudice on April 2, 2024.
Other. In addition to the matters discussed above, various other lawsuits, claims, and proceedings have been or may be instituted or asserted against theCompany, including those pertaining to environmental, product liability, safety and health, employment, tax and antitrust matters. While the amounts claimed in these other matters may be substantial, the ultimate liability cannot currently be determined because of the considerable uncertainties that exist. Therefore, it is possible that the Company’s liquidity or results of operations in a period could be materially affected by one or more of these other matters. However, based on facts currently available, management believes that the disposition of these other matters that are pending or asserted will not have a material adverse effect, individually or in the aggregate, on the results of operations, financial position or cash flows of the Company.
Commitments
Guarantees. As of September 30, 2024, Howmet had outstanding bank guarantees related to energy contracts, tax matters, customs duties and environmental obligations, among others. The total amount committed under these guarantees, which expire at various dates between 2024 and 2027, was $23 as of September 30, 2024.
Pursuant to the Separation and Distribution Agreement, dated as of October 31, 2016, between Howmet and Alcoa Corporation, Howmet was required to provide certain guarantees for Alcoa Corporation, which were included in Other noncurrent liabilities and deferred credits in the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The remaining guarantee which had a fair value of $6 as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, for which the Company and Arconic Corporation are secondarily liable in the event of a payment default by Alcoa Corporation, relates to a long-term energy supply agreement that expires in 2047 at an
24
Alcoa Corporation facility. The Company currently views the risk of an Alcoa Corporation payment default on its obligations under the contract to be remote. The Company and Arconic Corporation are required to provide a guarantee up to an estimated present value amount of approximately $1,131 as of both September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023 in the event of an Alcoa Corporation default. In December 2023, a surety bond with a limit of $80 relating to this guarantee was obtained by Alcoa Corporation to protect Howmet’s obligation. This surety bond will be renewed on an annual basis by Alcoa Corporation.
Letters of Credit. The Company has outstanding letters of credit primarily related to environmental obligations, insurance obligations and workers’ compensation, among others. The total amount committed under these letters of credit, which automatically renew or expire at various dates, primarily in 2024 and 2025, was $91 as of September 30, 2024.
Pursuant to the Separation and Distribution Agreements between the Company and Arconic Corporation and between the Company and Alcoa Corporation, the Company is required to retain letters of credit of $48, which are included in the $91 in the above paragraph, that had previously been provided related to the Company, Arconic Corporation, and Alcoa Corporation workers’ compensation claims that occurred prior to the respective separation transactions of April 1, 2020 and November 1, 2016. Arconic Corporation and Alcoa Corporation workers’ compensation and letters of credit fees paid by the Company are proportionally billed to, and are reimbursed by, Arconic Corporation and Alcoa Corporation, respectively. Also, the Company was required to provide letters of credit for certain Arconic Corporation environmental obligations and, as a result, the Company has $17 of outstanding letters of credit relating to such liabilities, which are also included in the $91 in the above paragraph.
Surety Bonds. The Company has outstanding surety bonds primarily related to workers’ compensation, customs duties, environmental-related matters, and contract performance. The total amount committed under these annual surety bonds, which automatically renew or expire at various dates, primarily in 2024 and 2025, was $43 as of September 30, 2024.
Pursuant to the Separation and Distribution Agreements between the Company and Arconic Corporation and between the Company and Alcoa Corporation, the Company is required to provide surety bonds of $21, which are included in the $43 in the above paragraph, that had previously been provided related to the Company, Arconic Corporation, and Alcoa Corporation workers’ compensation claims that occurred prior to the respective separation transactions of April 1, 2020 and November 1, 2016. Arconic Corporation and Alcoa Corporation workers’ compensation claims and surety bond fees paid by the Company are proportionately billed to, and are reimbursed by, Arconic Corporation and Alcoa Corporation, respectively.
Other Liabilities
Supplier Financing Arrangements. On January 1, 2023, the Company adopted the changes issued by the FASB related to disclosure requirements of supplier finance program obligations. We offer voluntary supplier finance programs to suppliers who may elect to sell their receivables to third parties at the sole discretion of both the suppliers and the third parties. The program is at no cost to the Company and provides additional liquidity to our suppliers, if they desire, at their cost. Under these programs, the Company pays the third-party bank rather than the supplier, the stated amount of the confirmed invoices on the original maturity date of the invoices. The Company or the third-party bank may terminate a program upon at least 30 days’ notice. Supplier invoices under the program require payment in full no more than 120 days of the invoice date. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, supplier invoices that are subject to future payment under these programs were $251 and $258, respectively, and are included in Accounts payable, trade in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.
R. Subsequent Events
Management evaluated all activity of Howmet and concluded that no subsequent events have occurred that would require recognition in the Consolidated Financial Statements or disclosure in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, except as noted below:
See Note H regarding share repurchases made in October 2024.
25
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
(U.S. dollars in millions, except per share amounts)
The following Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”) is intended to help the reader understand our results of operations and financial condition. The MD&A is provided as a supplement to, and should be read in conjunction with, our consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in Part I, Item 1 (Financial Statements and Supplementary Data) of this Form 10-Q.
Overview
Howmet is a global leader in lightweight metals engineering and manufacturing. Howmet’s innovative, multi-material products, which include nickel, titanium, aluminum, and cobalt, are used worldwide in the aerospace (commercial and defense), commercial transportation, and industrial and other markets.
In the nine months ended September 30, 2024, the Company derived approximately 52% of its revenue from products sold to the commercial aerospace market which is less than the pre-pandemic 2019 annual rate of approximately 60%. Aircraft production in the commercial aerospace industry continues to recover based on increases in demand for narrow body and wide body aircraft. We expect our commercial aerospace wide body and narrow body demand, including engine spares, also to continue to grow. Quality control issues at The Boeing Company (“Boeing”) are expected to negatively impact narrow body and wide body production rates in the near term. For instance, the Federal Aviation Administration stated that it will not approve production rate increases or additional production lines for the Boeing 737 MAX until it is satisfied that Boeing is in full compliance with required quality control procedures. In addition, a labor union work stoppage at Boeing has negatively impacted results. Boeing production levels have a material impact on the financial performance of Howmet. The timing and level of future aircraft builds by original equipment manufacturers (“OEM”) are subject to changes and uncertainties, which may cause our future results to differ from prior periods due to changes in product mix in certain segments.
For additional information regarding the ongoing risks related to our business, see section Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Results of Operations
Earnings Summary:
Sales. Sales were $1,835 in the third quarter of 2024 compared to $1,658 in the third quarter of 2023 and $5,539 in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $4,909 in the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The increase of $177, or 11%, in the third quarter of 2024 and the increase of $630, or 13%, in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was primarily due to higher volumes in the commercial aerospace, defense aerospace, and industrial and other markets, and favorable product pricing, partially offset by lower volumes in the commercial transportation market.
Cost of goods sold (“COGS”). COGS as a percentage of Sales was 68.3% in the third quarter of 2024 compared to 71.4% in the third quarter of 2023 and 69.1% in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to 72.2% in the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The decrease in the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2024 was primarily due to higher volumes and favorable product pricing, partially offset by increased net headcount, primarily in the Engine Products segment, in support of expected revenue increases. There were no COGS net reimbursements in the third quarter and $6 in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 due to the final settlement of the insurance claim related to a prior year mechanical failure resulting in substantial heat and fire-related damage to equipment at the Forged Wheels’ cast house in Barberton, Ohio (the “Barberton Cast House Incident”) in the second quarter of 2024, compared to total COGS net charges of $1 in both the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2023, related to the fire that occurred at a Fastening Systems plant in France in 2019 (the “France Plant Fire”) and Barberton Cast House Incident. The Company is negotiating resolution of the insurance claim related to the France Plant Fire.
Selling, general administrative, and other expenses (“SG&A”). SG&A expenses were $85 in the third quarter of 2024 compared to $87 in the third quarter of 2023 and $270 in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $250 in the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The decrease of $2, or 2%, in the third quarter of 2024 was primarily due to lower costs associated with closures, supply chain disruptions, and other items. The increase of $20, or 8% in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was primarily due to higher employment costs.
Restructuring and other (credits) charges. Restructuring and other (credits) charges were $(1) in the third quarter of 2024 compared to $4 in the third quarter of 2023 or a decrease of $5. Restructuring and other (credits) charges were $21 in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $8 in the nine months ended September 30, 2023 or an increase of $13. Restructuring and other (credits) charges for the third quarter of 2024 were primarily due to a $1 gain related to the resolution of post-closing adjustments from the May 2024 sale of a small U.K. manufacturing facility in Engineered Structures. Restructuring and other (credits) charges for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 were primarily due to a net loss on the sale of a small U.K. manufacturing facility in Engineered Structures of $13 and layoff costs of $8. Restructuring and other
26
(credits) charges for the third quarter of 2023 were primarily due to charges for a Canadian pension plan settlement of $2. Restructuring and other (credits) charges for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 were primarily due to charges for U.S. and Canadian pension plan settlements of $5 and exit related costs, including accelerated depreciation, of $3.
See Note D to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I, Item I of this Form 10-Q for additional detail.
Interest expense, net. Interest expense, net was $44 in the third quarter of 2024 compared to $54 in the third quarter of 2023 and $142 in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $166 in the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The decrease of $10, or 19%, in the third quarter of 2024 and $24, or 14%, in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was primarily due to the early redemptions of the 6.875% Notes due May 2025 (the “2025 Notes”) during various periods in 2024, the early redemptions of the 5.125% Notes due October 2024 (the “2024 Notes”)during various periods during 2023 and 2024, partially offset by the August 2024 issuance of $500 aggregate principal amount of 4.850% Notes due October 2031 (the “2031 Notes”), net of the cross-currency swap that synthetically converted the 2031 Notes into a lower fixed-interest-rate Euro liability. Long-term debt, including long-term debt due within one year, has been reduced by $768 from December 31, 2022 to September 30, 2024.
See Note N to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I, Item I of this Form 10-Q for additional detail related to the Company’s debt.
Loss on debt redemption. Debt redemption or tender premiums include the cost to redeem or repurchase certain of the Company’s notes at a price which may be equal to the greater of the principal amount or the sum of the present values of the remaining scheduled payments, discounted using a defined treasury rate plus a spread, or a price based on the market price of its notes. Loss on debt redemption was $6 in the third quarter of 2024 compared to less than $1 in the third quarter of 2023 and $6 in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $1 in the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The increase in both the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2024 was primarily due to the debt premiums paid on the early redemption of the 2025 Notes in the third quarter of 2024.
See Note N to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I, Item I of this Form 10-Q for additional detail related to the Company’s debt.
Other expense, net. Other expense, net was $17 in the third quarter of 2024 compared to Other expense, net of $11 in the third quarter of 2023 and Other expense, net was $49 in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to Other expense, net of $5 in the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The increase in expense of $6 in the third quarter of 2024 was primarily due to an increase in deferred compensation of $7. The increase in expense of $44 in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was primarily due to the reversal in the second quarter ended June 30, 2023 of $25, net of legal fees of $1, of the $65 pre-tax charge taken in the third quarter of 2022 related to the Lehman Brothers International (Europe) legal proceeding as a result of the final settlement of such proceeding in June 2023 (See Note Q to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I, Item I of this Form 10-Q for reference), an increase in deferred compensation of $9, and increases in foreign currency losses, net, of $6. Non-service related net periodic benefit costs related to defined benefit plans and other postretirement benefit plans is expected to be relatively flat for the full year 2024 versus 2023.
See Note F to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I, Item I of this Form 10-Q for additional detail.
Provision for income taxes. The estimated annual effective tax rate, before discrete items, applied to ordinary income was 20.9% in both the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to 23.0% in both the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2023. The tax rate including discrete items was 6.2% in the third quarter of 2024 compared to 22.3% in the third quarter of 2023. A discrete net tax benefit of $46 primarily attributable to additional U.S. federal and state R&D credits claimed for prior years upon completion of the Company’s R&D study was recorded in the third quarter of 2024 compared to a discrete net tax benefit of $1 in the third quarter of 2023. The tax rate including discrete items was 15.1% in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to 25.0% in the nine months ended September 30, 2023. A discrete net tax benefit of $58 primarily attributable to additional U.S. federal and state R&D credits claimed for prior years upon completion of the Company’s R&D study and approved under audit by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service was recorded in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to a discrete net tax charge of $13, which included the income tax reserve recorded as a result of the French tax litigation (See Note Q to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I, Item I of this Form 10-Q for reference), recorded in the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The 2024 estimated annual effective tax rate is lower than the 2023 rate primarily due to a net benefit related to U.S. federal and state R&D credits, a higher U.S. deduction on Foreign Derived Intangible Income (“FDII”), and a U.S. tax benefit recognized for foreign tax credits.
See Note G to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I, Item I of this Form 10-Q for additional detail.
27
Net income. Net income was $332, or $0.81 per diluted share, in the third quarter of 2024 compared to $188, or $0.45 per diluted share, in the third quarter of 2023 and $841, or $2.04 per diluted share, in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $529, or $1.27 per diluted share, in the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The increase of $144 in the third quarter of 2024 and $312 in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was primarily due to higher volumes in the commercial aerospace, defense aerospace, and industrial and other markets, including engines spares, favorable product pricing, and a reduction in interest expense due to lower long-term debt levels, partially offset by lower volumes in the commercial transportation market.
Segment Information
The Company’s operations consist of four worldwide reportable segments: Engine Products, Fastening Systems, Engineered Structures, and Forged Wheels. Segment performance under Howmet’s management reporting system is evaluated based on a number of factors; however, the primary measure of performance is Segment Adjusted EBITDA. Howmet’s definition of Segment Adjusted EBITDA (Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) is net margin plus an add-back for depreciation and amortization. Net margin is equivalent to Sales minus the following items: Cost of goods sold; Selling, general administrative, and other expenses; Research and development expenses; and Provision for depreciation and amortization. Special items, including Restructuring and other (credits) charges, are excluded from Net margin and Segment Adjusted EBITDA. Segment Adjusted EBITDA may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies. Differences between the total segment and consolidated totals are in Corporate (See Note C to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q for a description of each segment).
The Company has aligned its operations consistent with how the Chief Executive Officer assesses operating performance and allocates capital.
On March 3, 2024, Howmet and the United Autoworkers at our Cleveland, Ohio location approved a new five-year collective bargaining agreement, covering approximately 750 employees within our Engineered Structures and Forged Wheels segments. The agreement positions our Cleveland location to continue to offer market competitive wages and benefits. The new agreement expires on February 28, 2029. The Company’s next significant plant collective bargaining agreement in the U.S. expires in 2027.
Engine Products
Third quarter ended
Nine months ended
September 30,
September 30,
2024
2023
2024
2023
Third-party sales
$
945
$
798
$
2,763
$
2,414
Segment Adjusted EBITDA
307
219
848
654
Segment Adjusted EBITDA Margin
32.5
%
27.4
%
30.7
%
27.1
%
Third-party sales for the Engine Products segment increased $147, or 18%, in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the third quarter of 2023, primarily due to growth in the commercial aerospace, defense aerospace, industrial gas turbine, and oil and gas markets, including engine spares.
Third-party sales for the Engine Products segment increased $349, or 14%, in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2023, primarily due to growth in the commercial aerospace, defense aerospace, industrial gas turbine, and oil and gas markets, including engine spares.
Segment Adjusted EBITDA for the Engine Products segment increased $88, or 40%, in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the third quarter of 2023, primarily due to growth in the commercial aerospace, defense aerospace, industrial gas turbine, and oil and gas markets. The segment absorbed approximately 235 net headcount in the third quarter of 2024, in support of expected revenue increases.
Segment Adjusted EBITDA for the Engine Products segment increased $194, or 30%, in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2023, primarily due to growth in the commercial aerospace, defense aerospace, industrial gas turbine, and oil and gas markets. The segment absorbed approximately 985 net headcount in the nine months ended September 30, 2024, in support of expected revenue increases, resulting in unfavorable near-term recruiting, training and operational costs.
Segment Adjusted EBITDA Margin for the Engine Products segment increased approximately 510 basis points in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the third quarter of 2023, primarily due to growth in the commercial aerospace, defense aerospace, industrial gas turbine, and oil and gas markets.
28
Segment Adjusted EBITDA Margin for the Engine Products segment increased approximately 360 basis points in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2023 primarily due to growth in the commercial aerospace, defense aerospace, industrial gas turbine, and oil and gas markets.
In 2024, as compared to 2023, demand in the commercial aerospace, defense aerospace, industrial gas turbine, and oil and gas markets is expected to increase. However, quality control issues and a labor union work stoppage at Boeing are expected to negatively impact narrow body and wide body production rates in the near term.
In October 2024, Howmet acquired Camcraft LTD for approximately $5. This U.K. facility manufactures tooling used in the investment casting process and will be part of the Engine Products segment.
Fastening Systems
Third quarter ended
Nine months ended
September 30,
September 30,
2024
2023
2024
2023
Third-party sales
$
392
$
348
$
1,175
$
989
Segment Adjusted EBITDA
102
76
295
198
Segment Adjusted EBITDA Margin
26.0
%
21.8
%
25.1
%
20.0
%
Third-party sales for the Fastening Systems segment increased $44, or 13%, in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the third quarter of 2023, primarily due to growth in the commercial aerospace market, including wide body recovery.
Third-party sales for the Fastening Systems segment increased $186 or 19% in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2023, primarily due to growth in the commercial aerospace market, including wide body recovery.
Segment Adjusted EBITDA for the Fastening Systems segment increased $26, or 34%, in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the third quarter of 2023, primarily due to growth in the commercial aerospace market.
Segment Adjusted EBITDA for the Fastening Systems segment increased $97, or 49%, in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2023, primarily due to growth in the commercial aerospace market as well as productivity gains.
Segment Adjusted EBITDA Margin for the Fastening Systems segment increased approximately 420 basis points in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the third quarter of 2023, primarily due to growth in the commercial aerospace market.
Segment Adjusted EBITDA Margin for the Fastening Systems segment increased approximately 510 basis points in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2023, primarily due to growth in the commercial aerospace market as well as productivity gains.
In 2024, as compared to 2023, demand in the commercial aerospace and industrial markets is expected to increase. However, quality control issues and a labor union work stoppage at Boeing are expected to negatively impact narrow body and wide body production rates in the near term. In addition, demand in the commercial transportation markets is expected to decrease in the second half of 2024 due to lower OEM builds.
Engineered Structures
Third quarter ended
Nine months ended
September 30,
September 30,
2024
2023
2024
2023
Third-party sales
$
253
$
227
$
790
$
634
Segment Adjusted EBITDA
38
30
115
80
Segment Adjusted EBITDA Margin
15.0
%
13.2
%
14.6
%
12.6
%
Third-party sales for the Engineered Structures segment increased $26, or 11%, in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the third quarter of 2023, primarily due to growth in the commercial aerospace and defense aerospace markets. The Engineered Structures segment is focusing on the optimization of its manufacturing footprint and rationalization of product mix in order to maximize profitability.
Third-party sales for the Engineered Structures segment increased $156, or 25%, in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2023, primarily due to growth in the commercial aerospace and defense aerospace markets.
29
Segment Adjusted EBITDA for the Engineered Structuressegment increased $8, or 27%, in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the third quarter of 2023, primarily due to growth in the commercial aerospace and defense aerospace markets.
Segment Adjusted EBITDA for the Engineered Structuressegment increased $35, or 44%, in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2023, primarily due to growth in the commercial aerospace and defense aerospace markets.
Segment Adjusted EBITDA Margin for the Engineered Structuressegment increased approximately 180 basis points in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the third quarter of 2023, primarily due to growth in the commercial aerospace and defense aerospace markets.
Segment Adjusted EBITDA Margin for the Engineered Structuressegment increased approximately 200 basis points in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2023, primarily due to growth in the commercial aerospace and defense aerospace markets, partially offset by an increase in headcount and inflationary costs.
In 2024, as compared to 2023, demand in the commercial aerospace and defense aerospace markets is expected to increase. However, quality control issues and a labor union work stoppage at Boeing are expected to negatively impact narrow body and wide body production rates in the near term.
Forged Wheels
Third quarter ended
Nine months ended
September 30,
September 30,
2024
2023
2024
2023
Third-party sales
$
245
$
285
$
811
$
872
Segment Adjusted EBITDA
64
77
221
237
Segment Adjusted EBITDA Margin
26.1
%
27.0
%
27.3
%
27.2
%
Third-party sales for the Forged Wheels segment decreased $40, or 14%, in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the third quarter of 2023, primarily due to lower volumes in the commercial transportation market as well as a decrease in aluminum cost pass through.
Third-party sales for the Forged Wheels segment decreased $61, or 7%, in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2023, primarily due to lower volumes in the commercial transportation market as well as a decrease in aluminum and other inflationary cost pass through.
Segment Adjusted EBITDA for the Forged Wheels segment decreased $13, or 17%, in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the third quarter of 2023, primarily due to lower volumes in the commercial transportation market.
Segment Adjusted EBITDA for the Forged Wheels segment decreased $16, or 7%, in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2023, primarily due to lower volumes in the commercial transportation market.
Segment Adjusted EBITDA Margin for the Forged Wheels segment decreased approximately 90 basis points in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the third quarter of 2023, primarily due to lower volumes in the commercial transportation market, partially offset by lower aluminum cost pass through.
Segment Adjusted EBITDA Margin for the Forged Wheels segment increased approximately 10 basis points in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2023, primarily due to lower aluminum and other inflationary cost pass through, partially offset by lower volumes in the commercial transportation market.
In 2024, as compared to 2023, demand in the commercial transportation markets served by Forged Wheels is expected to decrease in the second half of 2024 in most regions due to lower OEM builds.
30
Reconciliation of Total Segment Adjusted EBITDA to Income before income taxes
Third quarter ended
Nine months ended
September 30,
September 30,
2024
2023
2024
2023
Income before income taxes
$
354
$
242
$
991
$
705
Loss on debt redemption
6
—
6
1
Interest expense, net
44
54
142
166
Other expense, net
17
11
49
5
Operating income
$
421
$
307
$
1,188
$
877
Segment provision for depreciation and amortization
66
67
198
197
Unallocated amounts:
Restructuring and other (credits) charges
(1)
4
21
8
Corporate expense
25
24
72
87
Total Segment Adjusted EBITDA
$
511
$
402
$
1,479
$
1,169
Total Segment Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure. Management believes that this measure is meaningful to investors because it provides additional information with respect to the Company’s operating performance and the Company’s ability to meet its financial obligations. Differences between the total segment and consolidated totals are in Corporate.
See Restructuring and other (credits) charges, Interest expense, net, Loss on debt redemption, and Other expense, net discussions above, under “Results of Operations” for reference.
Corporate expense increased $1, or 4%, in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the third quarter of 2023, primarily due to higher employment costs in 2024, partially offset by lower costs associated with closures, supply chain disruptions, and other items of $2, lower costs related to the collective bargaining agreement negotiations of $1, and higher net reimbursements related to the France Plant Fire and the Barberton Cast House Incident of $1.
Corporate expense decreased $15, or 17%, in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2023, primarily due to lower costs associated with closures, supply chain disruptions, and other items of $12, lower costs related to the collective bargaining agreement negotiations of $8, and higher net reimbursements related to the France Plant Fire and the Barberton Cast House Incident of $7, partially offset by higher employment and legal costs in 2024.
Environmental Matters
See the Environmental Matters section of Note Q to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q.
Subsequent Events
See Note R to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q for subsequent events.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Operating Activities
Cash provided from operations was $818 in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $443 in the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The increase of $375 was primarily due to higher operating results of $298 and lower working capital of $88, partially offset by higher pension contributions of $14. The components of the change in working capital primarily included favorable changes in receivables of $114, prepaid expenses and other current assets of $21, inventories of $9, partially offset by compensation related payments and other accrued expenses of $24, taxes, including income taxes of $22, and accounts payable of $10.
Management expects Howmet’s estimated pension contributions and other postretirement benefit payments in 2024 to be approximately $65.
Financing Activities
Cash used for financing activities was $742 in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $646 in the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The increase of $96, or 15%, was primarily due to long-term debt payments made in 2024 of $433 (See Note N to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q for reference), an increase in common stock repurchases of $160, increased dividends paid to common stock shareholders of $24 due to a $0.04 increase in dividends per common share, from $0.04 to $0.08 per share from the third quarter of 2023 to the third quarter of 2024, respectively, and $5 related to debt issuance costs for the 2031 Notes, partially offset by proceeds from the 2031 Notes debt issuance of $500 and
31
a decrease in taxes paid for the net share settlement of equity awards of $29. On an annual basis, the current year debt actions are expected to reduce Interest expense, net by approximately $33.
On July 30, 2024, the Board of Directors of Howmet Aerospace approved the establishment of a 2025 dividend policy to pay cash dividends on the Company’s common stock in 2025 at a rate of 15% plus or minus 5% of net income excluding special items. The declaration of future common stock dividends is subject to the discretion and approval of the Board of Directors of Howmet after the Board’s consideration of all factors it deems relevant and subject to applicable law. The Company may modify, suspend, or cancel the dividend policy in any manner and at any time that it may deem necessary or appropriate.
The Company maintains a credit facility (the “Credit Facility) pursuant to its Five-Year Revolving Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) with a syndicate of lenders and issuers named therein (See Note N to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q for reference). There were no amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement as of September 30, 2024 or December 31, 2023, and no amounts were borrowed during 2024 or 2023 under the Credit Agreement.
On April 4, 2024, the Company established a commercial paper program under which the Company may issue unsecured commercial paper from time to time up to a maximum aggregate face amount of $1,000. The Company’s commercial paper will be sold on customary terms in the U.S. commercial paper market on a private placement basis. The proceeds of the commercial paper will be used for general corporate purposes. In conjunction with the commercial paper program, the Company was assigned short-term credit ratings by Moody’s Investors Service, Inc., S&P Global Ratings, and Fitch Ratings, Inc.
The Company has an effective shelf registration statement on Form S-3, filed with the SEC, which allows for offerings of debt securities from time to time. The Company may opportunistically issue new debt securities in accordance with securities laws or utilize commercial paper in order to, but not limited to, refinance existing indebtedness.
In the future, the Company may, from time to time, redeem portions of its debt securities or repurchase portions of its debt or equity securities, in either the open market or through privately negotiated transactions, in accordance with applicable SEC and other legal requirements. The timing, prices, and sizes of purchases depend upon prevailing trading prices, general economic and market conditions, and other factors, including applicable securities laws. Such purchases may be completed by means of trading plans established from time to time in accordance with Rule 10b5-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, block trades, private transactions, open market repurchases, tender offers, and/or accelerated share repurchase agreements or other derivative transactions.
The Company’s costs of borrowing and ability to access the capital markets are affected not only by market conditions but also by the short-term and long-term debt ratings assigned to the Company by the major credit rating agencies. The Company believes that its cash on hand, cash provided from operations and availability of its Credit Facility, its commercial paper program, and its accounts receivables securitization program will continue to be sufficient to fund our operating and capital allocation activities.
The three major credit rating agencies have rated Howmet’s debt with investment grade ratings. The Company’s most recent short-term and long-term credit ratings from the three major credit rating agencies are as follows:
Short-Term
Long-Term
Outlook
Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. (“Moody’s”)
P-2
Baa1
Stable
S&P Global Ratings (“S&P”)
A-3
BBB-
Stable
Fitch Ratings, Inc. (“Fitch”)
F2
BBB
Positive
On August 6, 2024, Moody’s upgraded Howmet’s short-term debt rating from P-3 to P-2, further upgraded Howmet’s long-term debt rating two notches from Baa3 to Baa1, which was previously upgraded to Baa3 from Ba1 on February 29, 2024 citing demand in the markets served by Howmet along with the Company’s improved financial leverage and updated the current outlook from positive to stable.
On August 6, 2024, Fitch affirmed Howmet’s short-term debt rating at F2 and long-term debt rating at BBB and updated the current outlook from stable to positive.
On December 15, 2023, S&P upgraded Howmet’s long-term debt rating to BBB- and updated the current outlook from positive to stable, citing strong demand in the commercial aerospace market and the Company’s improved financial leverage.
Investing Activities
Cash used for investing activities was $209 in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $163 in the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The increase of $46, or 28%, was primarily due to an increase in capital expenditures of $55 primarily related to capacity expansion projects in Engine Products and Forged Wheels and various automation projects, partially offset by proceeds primarily from the sale of assets at a small U.K. manufacturing facility in Engine Products of $8.
32
Recently Adopted and Recently Issued Accounting Guidance
See Note B to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q.
Forward-Looking Statements
This report contains (and oral communications made by Howmet may contain) statements that relate to future events and expectations and as such constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include those containing such words as “anticipates”, “believes”, “could”, “estimates”, “expects”, “forecasts”, “goal”, “guidance”, “intends”, “may”, “outlook”, “plans”, “projects”, “seeks”, “sees”, “should”, “targets”, “will”, “would”, or other words of similar meaning. All statements that reflect Howmet’s expectations, assumptions or projections about the future, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements, forecasts and outlook relating to the condition of end markets; future financial results or operating performance; future strategic actions; Howmet’s strategies, outlook, and business and financial prospects; and any future dividends, debt issuances, debt reduction and repurchases of its common stock. These statements reflect beliefs and assumptions that are based on Howmet’s perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors Howmet believes are appropriate in the circumstances. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties, and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by these statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: (a) deterioration in global economic and financial market conditions generally; (b) adverse changes in the markets served by Howmet; (c) the impact of potential cyber attacks and information technology or data security breaches; (d) the loss of significant customers or adverse changes in customers’ business or financial conditions; (e) manufacturing difficulties or other issues that impact product performance, quality or safety; (f) inability of suppliers to meet obligations due to supply chain disruptions or otherwise; (g) failure to attract and retain a qualified workforce and key personnel, labor disputes or other employee relations issues; (h) the inability to achieve anticipated or targeted revenue growth, cash generation, restructuring plans, cost reductions, improvement in profitability, or strengthening of competitiveness and operations; (i) inability to meet increased demand, production targets or commitments; (j) competition from new product offerings, disruptive technologies or other developments; (k) geopolitical, economic, and regulatory risks relating to Howmet’s global operations, including geopolitical and diplomatic tensions, instabilities, conflicts and wars, as well as compliance with U.S. and foreign trade and tax laws, sanctions, embargoes and other regulations; (l) the outcome of contingencies, including legal proceedings, government or regulatory investigations, and environmental remediation, which can expose Howmet to substantial costs and liabilities; (m) failure to comply with government contracting regulations; (n) adverse changes in discount rates or investment returns on pension assets; and (o) the other risk factors summarized in Howmet’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and other reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Market projections are subject to the risks discussed above and other risks in the market. Credit ratings are not a recommendation to buy or hold any Howmet securities, and they may be revised or revoked at any time at the sole discretion of the credit rating organizations. The statements in this report are made as of the date of the filing of this report. Howmet disclaims any intention or obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements, whether in response to new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk.
Not material.
Item 4. Controls and Procedures.
(a) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
The Company's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have evaluated the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, as of the end of the period covered by this report, and they have concluded that these controls and procedures are effective.
(b) Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
There have been no changes in internal control over financial reporting during the third quarter of 2024 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
33
PART II – OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings.
See Note Q to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q.
Item 1A. Risk Factors.
There have been no material changes from the risk factors previously disclosed in Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds.
The following table presents information with respect to the Company’s repurchases of its common stock during the quarter ended September 30, 2024:
Period
Total Number of Shares Purchased
Average Price Paid Per Share(1)
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Repurchase Plans or Programs
Approximate Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs (in millions)(1)(2)
July 1 - July 31, 2024
—
$
—
—
$
2,487
August 1 - August 31, 2024
1,061,323
$
94.22
1,061,323
$
2,387
September 1 - September 30, 2024
—
$
—
—
$
2,387
Total for quarter ended September 30, 2024
1,061,323
$
94.22
1,061,323
(1)Excludes commissions cost.
(2)The Company has a share repurchase program (the “Share Repurchase Program”) that, after giving effect to the additional $90 million share repurchases made in October 2024 at an average price per share of $103.15, retiring approximately 0.9 million shares, has approximately $2,297 million in Board authorization remaining available as of October 31, 2024. The current Share Repurchase Program was authorized by the Company’s Board of Directors on August 18, 2021 at $1,500 million, which was increased by the Board by $2,000 million on July 30, 2024. Under the Company’s Share Repurchase Program, the Company may repurchase shares by means of trading plans established from time to time in accordance with Rule 10b5-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, block trades, private transactions, open market repurchases and/or accelerated share repurchase agreements, or other derivative transactions. There is no stated expiration for the Share Repurchase Program. Under its Share Repurchase Program, the Company may repurchase shares from time to time, in amounts, at prices, and at such times as the Company deems appropriate, subject to market conditions, legal requirements and other considerations. The Company is not obligated to repurchase any specific number of shares or to do so at any particular time, and the Share Repurchase Program may be suspended, modified, or terminated at any time without prior notice.
Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
101.INS
Inline XBRL Instance Document - the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document.
Cover Page Interactive Data File - the cover page from this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2024, formatted in Inline XBRL (included within the Exhibit 101 attachments).
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.