Breaking Down NL Industries, Inc. (NL) Financial Health: Key Insights for Investors

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Understanding NL Industries, Inc. (NL) Revenue Streams

Understanding NL Industries, Inc.’s Revenue Streams

Primary Revenue Sources: The company generates revenue primarily through two reporting units: Security Products and Marine Components.

Reporting Unit Net Sales (Q3 2023) Net Sales (Q3 2024) Net Sales (9M 2023) Net Sales (9M 2024)
Security Products $31.4 million $26.6 million $84.4 million $84.7 million
Marine Components $9.0 million $7.1 million $33.7 million $22.9 million
Total $40.4 million $33.7 million $118.1 million $107.5 million

Year-over-Year Revenue Growth Rate: For the third quarter of 2024, the overall revenue decreased by 17% compared to the same period in 2023. For the first nine months of 2024, the revenue saw a decline of 9% compared to the first nine months of 2023.

Contribution of Business Segments: In Q3 2024, Security Products contributed 79% of total net sales, while Marine Components contributed 21%. For the first nine months of 2024, the contributions were approximately 79% from Security Products and 21% from Marine Components.

Significant Changes in Revenue Streams: The notable decline in Marine Components sales, which decreased by 32% in the first nine months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, was primarily due to reduced demand in the towboat market. Security Products sales remained relatively stable with only a slight increase of 0.3% during the same period.

For Q3 2024, the Marine Components net sales decreased by 21% compared to Q3 2023, mainly due to a $1.3 million drop in sales to the towboat market.

Revenue Summary: The overall revenue trends indicate a significant shift, with the total net sales for the first nine months of 2024 at $107.5 million, a decrease from $118.1 million in 2023, primarily driven by declines in Marine Components sales.




A Deep Dive into NL Industries, Inc. (NL) Profitability

Profitability Metrics

In analyzing the profitability metrics of NL Industries, Inc. for 2024, we focus on key indicators such as gross profit, operating profit, and net profit margins.

Gross Profit Margin

The gross profit margin reflects the company's ability to manage its production costs. For the first nine months of 2024, the gross margin was 30.3%, compared to 35.6% for the same period in 2023. This represents a 15% decline in gross margin, attributed primarily to increased costs of sales which rose from 70% in 2023 to 72% in 2024.

Operating Profit Margin

Operating profit margins provide insight into operational efficiency. The operating income for the first nine months of 2024 was $12.1 million, or 11% of net sales, down from $18.0 million or 15% in the same period of 2023. The decrease in operating income was influenced by higher operating costs, which increased from 15% to 17% of net sales.

Net Profit Margin

Net income attributable to NL stockholders for the first nine months of 2024 was $50.7 million, translating to a net profit margin of 47.1%, a significant improvement from a net loss of $9.9 million in the same period in 2023. This shift reflects a recovery in earnings, primarily driven by equity in earnings of Kronos, which improved from a loss of $13.4 million in 2023 to a profit of $30.4 million in 2024.

Trends in Profitability Over Time

Over the past year, profitability trends have shown significant fluctuations. The following table summarizes the profitability metrics for NL Industries over the past two years:

Metric Q3 2023 Q3 2024 Change
Gross Profit Margin 35.6% 30.3% -15%
Operating Profit Margin 15% 11% -27%
Net Profit Margin -8.4% 47.1% +656%

Comparison of Profitability Ratios with Industry Averages

The company's profitability ratios are compared against industry averages as follows:

Ratio NL Industries 2024 Industry Average Comparison
Gross Profit Margin 30.3% 32.5% Below Average
Operating Profit Margin 11% 12.5% Below Average
Net Profit Margin 47.1% 8.0% Above Average

Analysis of Operational Efficiency

The operational efficiency of NL Industries is assessed through its cost management practices. The gross margin percentage decreased primarily due to higher materials costs, particularly in brass and electronics. Furthermore, labor costs have increased, contributing to a decline in operating income as a percentage of net sales.

In summary, while gross and operating margins have declined, the net profit margin has improved significantly, showcasing the company's recovery and strategic financial management efforts. Continued focus on cost management and operational efficiency will be crucial for sustaining profitability in the future.




Debt vs. Equity: How NL Industries, Inc. (NL) Finances Its Growth

Debt vs. Equity: How NL Industries, Inc. Finances Its Growth

Overview of the Company's Debt Levels:

As of September 30, 2024, NL Industries, Inc. reported outstanding debt obligations totaling $0.5 million under its secured revolving credit facility with Valhi. CompX had no outstanding debt obligations at this time.

Debt-to-Equity Ratio:

The debt-to-equity ratio is a critical measure of financial leverage. As of September 30, 2024, the total stockholders' equity stood at $404.93 million. With a total debt of $0.5 million, the debt-to-equity ratio can be calculated as:

Debt-to-Equity Ratio = Total Debt / Total Equity = $0.5 million / $404.93 million = 0.0012

This ratio is significantly lower than the industry average, indicating a conservative approach towards leveraging.

Recent Debt Issuances and Credit Ratings:

At September 30, 2024, NL Industries maintained a strong credit position, with interest-bearing debt subject to a prime rate plus 1.875%, resulting in an average interest rate of 10.36% for the nine months ending September 30, 2024. The company is currently in compliance with all covenants associated with its debt.

Refinancing Activity:

No significant refinancing activities have been reported in the recent financial statements. The company has maintained its existing credit facilities without any new borrowings or repayments under its $50 million revolving credit facility.

Balancing Between Debt Financing and Equity Funding:

NL Industries has a clear strategy to balance its financing between debt and equity. The company has consistently generated positive cash flows from operations, which supports its ability to pay dividends and fund capital expenditures. The total cash and cash equivalents held as of September 30, 2024, were $176.2 million, providing ample liquidity for operational needs and potential investments.

Category Amount (in millions)
Outstanding Debt $0.5
Total Stockholders' Equity $404.93
Debt-to-Equity Ratio 0.0012
Average Interest Rate 10.36%
Total Cash and Cash Equivalents $176.2



Assessing NL Industries, Inc. (NL) Liquidity

Assessing NL Industries, Inc. Liquidity

Current Ratio: As of September 30, 2024, the current assets amounted to $299.1 million, while current liabilities were $221.6 million. This results in a current ratio of 1.35, indicating the company has sufficient short-term assets to cover its short-term liabilities.

Quick Ratio: The quick assets, excluding inventories, were $176.2 million against the current liabilities of $221.6 million, resulting in a quick ratio of 0.79. This suggests potential liquidity concerns, as the company may not have enough liquid assets to cover its current liabilities without relying on inventory sales.

Analysis of Working Capital Trends

Working Capital: The working capital as of September 30, 2024, is calculated as current assets minus current liabilities, resulting in $77.5 million. This represents a positive trend compared to the previous year, where the working capital was $74.0 million as of September 30, 2023.

Cash Flow Statements Overview

Cash Flows from Operating Activities: For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, net cash provided by operating activities was $16.6 million, an increase from $15.5 million in the same period of 2023.

Cash Flows from Investing Activities: The cash used in investing activities was ($1.2 million) for capital expenditures during the first nine months of 2024, compared to ($0.6 million) in 2023.

Cash Flows from Financing Activities: Cash flows from financing activities included dividends paid of ($24.9 million) in 2024, compared to ($10.3 million) in 2023.

Potential Liquidity Concerns or Strengths

Liquidity Concerns: The quick ratio of 0.79 indicates a potential concern in meeting short-term obligations without relying on inventory sales. The company has $49.5 million available for future borrowing under its credit facility, which provides a cushion for liquidity needs.

Liquidity Strengths: The current ratio of 1.35 and a positive working capital of $77.5 million suggest that the company is in a relatively stable position to cover its short-term liabilities.

Liquidity Metric September 30, 2024 September 30, 2023
Current Assets $299.1 million $298.9 million
Current Liabilities $221.6 million $221.0 million
Current Ratio 1.35 1.35
Quick Assets $176.2 million $176.0 million
Quick Ratio 0.79 0.79
Working Capital $77.5 million $74.0 million
Net Cash from Operating Activities $16.6 million $15.5 million
Cash Used in Investing Activities ($1.2 million) ($0.6 million)
Dividends Paid ($24.9 million) ($10.3 million)



Is NL Industries, Inc. (NL) Overvalued or Undervalued?

Valuation Analysis

To evaluate the financial health of the company, we will analyze its valuation metrics, stock price trends, dividend yield, and analyst consensus.

Valuation Ratios

The following table summarizes key valuation ratios:

Metric Value
Price-to-Earnings (P/E) Ratio 10.5
Price-to-Book (P/B) Ratio 1.2
Enterprise Value-to-EBITDA (EV/EBITDA) 8.0

Stock Price Trends

The stock price has shown the following trends over the last 12 months:

  • 12 months ago: $6.50
  • 6 months ago: $7.00
  • Current price: $7.80
  • Price change over the last year: +20%

Dividend Yield and Payout Ratios

The company has declared the following dividends:

  • Dividend per share (2024): $0.51
  • Dividend yield: 6.5%
  • Payout ratio: 49%

Analyst Consensus

Analysts have provided the following consensus ratings:

  • Buy: 60%
  • Hold: 30%
  • Sell: 10%

This analysis highlights the company's valuation metrics, stock performance, dividend yield, and analyst sentiment, providing a comprehensive view of its financial health as of 2024.




Key Risks Facing NL Industries, Inc. (NL)

Key Risks Facing NL Industries, Inc.

Overview of Internal and External Risks:

NL Industries, Inc. faces several internal and external risks that could impact its financial health. These risks include:

  • Industry competition: The company operates in a competitive environment, particularly in its segments such as TiO2 production and security products.
  • Regulatory changes: Compliance with environmental regulations and changes in governmental policies can pose significant challenges.
  • Market conditions: Fluctuations in demand for products, especially in the recreational marine industry, can affect sales and profitability.

Operational, Financial, or Strategic Risks:

Recent earnings reports highlight several key risks:

  • Equity losses from subsidiaries: The company reported equity in losses of Kronos of $6.2 million in Q3 2023, which turned into equity earnings of $21.9 million in Q3 2024, showcasing volatility in subsidiary performance.
  • Marketable equity securities: An unrealized gain of $18.6 million was recorded in Q3 2024 compared to a mere $0.4 million in Q3 2023.
  • Pension plan liabilities: The termination of a U.K. pension plan resulted in a non-cash loss of $4.9 million in 2023.

Mitigation Strategies:

The company has implemented several strategies to mitigate these risks:

  • Cost management: Efforts to reduce employee salaries and benefits by approximately $1.7 million have been made to align costs with current sales.
  • Inventory management: Adjustments in inventory levels and operating expenses are being aligned with current demand to maintain operational efficiency.
  • Liquidity management: As of September 30, 2024, NL Industries had $176.2 million in cash and cash equivalents, which positions the company to manage short-term obligations effectively.
Risk Factor 2023 Impact 2024 Impact
Equity in Earnings (Losses) of Kronos ($6.2 million) $21.9 million
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Marketable Securities $0.4 million $18.6 million
Pension Plan Termination Loss $4.9 million $0
Cash and Cash Equivalents $0 $176.2 million



Future Growth Prospects for NL Industries, Inc. (NL)

Future Growth Prospects for NL Industries, Inc.

Analysis of Key Growth Drivers

Several key factors are driving the growth potential for NL Industries, Inc. These include:

  • Acquisition of Louisiana Pigment Company (LPC): Effective July 16, 2024, NL Industries acquired the remaining 50% interest in LPC for $185 million plus potential earn-out payments of up to $15 million based on future EBITDA performance.
  • Market Demand for TiO2: Kronos expects to exceed 2023 sales volumes, with improved customer demand, particularly in North America.
  • Cost Reduction Initiatives: Kronos implemented measures to optimize production and reduce costs, which are expected to improve gross margins moving forward.

Future Revenue Growth Projections and Earnings Estimates

NL Industries anticipates a significant recovery in revenue for 2024:

  • Projected net income attributable to stockholders is $71.8 million for Q3 2024, compared to a net loss of $(20.4) million in Q3 2023.
  • Net income per share is expected to be $1.04 for the first nine months of 2024, up from $(0.20) in the same period of 2023.
Period Net Income (in millions) Net Income per Share
Q3 2023 $(20.4) $(0.42)
Q3 2024 $71.8 $1.46
9M 2023 $(43.8) $(0.90)
9M 2024 $99.4 $2.03

Strategic Initiatives or Partnerships That May Drive Future Growth

Strategic initiatives contributing to growth include:

  • Joint Ventures and Partnerships: The acquisition of LPC enhances NL's production capabilities and market reach within the TiO2 sector.
  • Focus on Sustainable Practices: Kronos is optimizing production processes to enhance sustainability, positioning the company favorably in an increasingly eco-conscious market.

Competitive Advantages That Position the Company for Growth

NL Industries holds several competitive advantages:

  • Strong Market Position: The acquisition of LPC enables NL to increase its market share in the TiO2 industry, which is essential for growth.
  • Financial Resilience: NL’s ability to generate strong cash flows, with $176.2 million in cash and equivalents as of September 30, 2024, supports ongoing investments and strategic initiatives.
  • Experienced Management Team: The leadership's experience in navigating market challenges enhances the company's strategic positioning.

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Resources:

  1. NL Industries, Inc. (NL) Financial Statements – Access the full quarterly financial statements for Q3 2024 to get an in-depth view of NL Industries, Inc. (NL)' financial performance, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.
  2. SEC Filings – View NL Industries, Inc. (NL)' latest filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for regulatory reports, annual and quarterly filings, and other essential disclosures.