Australian Agricultural Co Ltd (ASAGF) (FY 2025) Earnings Call Highlights: Record Cash Flow ...

Yahoo

22-05-2025

Release Date: May 21, 2025
For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.
Australian Agricultural Co Ltd (ASAGF) achieved its highest operating cash flow and second highest operating profit since 2017.
The company reported a 15% increase in total sales revenue, driven by higher meat and cattle sales volumes.
ASAGF's strategic refresh and focus on sustainability initiatives, such as the solarable program and soil carbon project, are expected to provide long-term benefits.
The company maintained a stable herd size with improved productivity, contributing to increased revenue.
ASAGF's brands, including West Home and Darling Downs, showed significant sales growth and market expansion.
The company reported a statutory net loss of $1.1 million, impacted by the unrealized mark-to-market value of the herd.
Inflationary pressures led to a 5% increase in the cost of production per kilo.
Price pressures in some regions resulted in an overall reduction in the weighted average meat sales price per kilogram.
The company faced challenges from dynamic markets, evolving trade conditions, and supply and demand constraints.
An unfortunate animal welfare incident occurred earlier in the year, highlighting the need for improved procedures to prevent future occurrences.
Warning! GuruFocus has detected 7 Warning Signs with ASAGF.
Q: With gearing levels at the lower end of the company's target range and the stock trading at a 43.5% discount to NTA, has a buyback been considered? A: Dave Harris, MD and CEO: The decision regarding a share buyback is for the board to make. Currently, the focus is on reinvesting in the business to develop the three strategic business areas, which we believe will provide long-term benefits for shareholders.
Q: What is the strategy for debt reduction and future dividend payments? A: Glenn Steadman, CFO: With the strategic refresh, we have identified areas requiring future investment. Therefore, debt reduction is unlikely as we pursue these investment opportunities.
Q: Can you please advise how many franking credits AAC has? How much possible fully franked dividend per share does this represent? Why does AAC have a policy of not paying dividends, and when is it likely a dividend may be paid? A: Dave Harris, MD and CEO: Currently, there are zero franking credits. The decision on dividends is for the board. Regarding the unfortunate incident where cattle died due to a water supply failure, we have conducted an investigation and developed procedures to minimize the likelihood of such an event occurring again.
Q: What were the impacts, if any, of the heavy rain and Northern Queensland floods in March? How is the pasture since the floods? A: Dave Harris, MD and CEO: The property most affected was South Galway, experiencing significant flooding. Fortunately, there were minimal cattle losses, and the rain was beneficial overall, putting us in good shape for the season ahead.
Q: Post-liberation Day, what have you witnessed with respect to trade flows and pricing, and how is AAC positioning itself given likely ongoing volatility? A: Dave Harris, MD and CEO: We focus on controllable factors, working with distributors and customers in each region. Our broad marketing opportunities allow us to move products through different markets as conditions change, ensuring the best outcomes for both customers and the business.
For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.
This article first appeared on GuruFocus.