Oshkosh Surpasses Q4 Earnings Estimates, Hikes Dividend

Core Insights - Oshkosh Corporation (OSK) reported fourth-quarter 2024 adjusted earnings of $2.58 per share, exceeding the Zacks Consensus Estimate of$2.18, and slightly up from $2.56 in the same period last year [1] - Consolidated net sales increased by 6.3$2.62 billion, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.42 billion [1] Segmental Performance - **Access Segment**: Net sales remained flat at$1.16 billion, with lower international sales offsetting acquisition-related sales. Operating income fell 11.9% to $142.9 million, accounting for 12.4$141 million [2] - Defense Segment: Net revenues were relatively flat at $559.1 million, with operating income dropping 75.8$15 million due to cumulative catch-up adjustments and unfavorable product mix, although it surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $11.16 million [3] - **Vocational Segment**: Net sales rose 19.8$880.6 million, driven by improved sales volume and pricing. Operating income surged 149.8% to $110.9 million, accounting for 12.6$103 million [4] Financial Overview - As of December 31, 2024, Oshkosh had cash and cash equivalents of $204.9 million, up from$125.4 million a year earlier. Long-term debt increased slightly to $599.5 million from$597.5 million [5] - The company announced an 11% increase in its quarterly cash dividend to 51 cents per share, payable on March 3, 2025 [5] Future Guidance - For full-year 2025, Oshkosh anticipates sales of approximately $10.6 billion, a decrease from$10.76 billion in 2024. Adjusted earnings per share are expected to be $11, down from$11.74 in 2024 [6] Market Position - Oshkosh currently holds a Zacks Rank 4 (Sell). In comparison, Geely Automobile Holdings Limited (GELYY) has a Zacks Rank 1 (Strong Buy), while Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (YMHAY) and Allison Transmission Holdings, Inc. (ALSN) both hold a Zacks Rank 2 (Buy) [7]