Latest news with #SMT
India Today
5 days ago
- Business
- India Today
Stock market opening: Sensex, Nifty likely to open higher today. Here's why
The stock market is expected to open higher on Friday, supported by strong buying from foreign investors and hopes of faster growth in the economy. This comes ahead of the release of the GDP data, which is due later in the 8:14 am, Gift Nifty futures were trading at 24,950, suggesting a positive start above Thursday's Nifty50 close of 24,833.6. This indicates that markets may open with gains in early expert VLA Ambala, Co-Founder of Stock Market Today (SMT), said that if the Nifty 50 index moves above 24,900, it may show bullish momentum as several stocks are expected to be in focus. She added, 'If the Nifty 50 breaks its immediate support level at 24,690 during the next intraday trading session, a sell-off could push prices down to 24,600 and possibly 24,470. If there is a breakout above 24,820, it could create an opportunity for intraday long positions. A gap opening of 0.75% to 1% will create immediate buying opportunities at support levels. On the other hand, a selling opportunity will arise if the market opens at a resistance level.'In recent sessions, markets have been quite volatile, swinging between gains and losses. However, on Thursday, both Sensex and Nifty managed to close higher, with gains of nearly 0.5%.STRONG FOREIGN INFLOWS CONTINUEForeign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought Indian shares worth Rs 884 crore on Thursday. This was the fifth day in a row that FPIs remained net buyers. So far in May, net foreign inflows have touched nearly Rs 21,700 crore or around $2.6 billion. If this trend continues, May could turn out to be the best month for foreign inflows since September 2024, a time when benchmark indices had hit record institutional investors (DIIs) have also supported the market. They have been net buyers for eight straight trading sessions. This steady buying by both foreign and domestic investors has helped improve market GAINS FOR NIFTYSo far this month, the Nifty 50 has risen around 2%, and if gains hold, the index is set for a third straight month of growth. This rise has been helped by strong earnings reported by many companies for the March quarter, as well as reduced worries over global trade are also hopeful that the Reserve Bank of India may consider reducing interest rates in the upcoming policy meeting next week, especially as inflation appears to be ON GDP DATALater today, the Indian government will release its GDP figures for the January–March quarter. Many experts believe the economy grew faster during this growth is expected to have been driven by increased rural demand and higher government spending. However, private investment is still low due to uncertainty in global the United States, stock markets ended higher overnight after a court ruling brought back former President Donald Trump's tariffs, which had been blocked earlier. This created some unease in global trade circles, but U.S. markets held up Asia, broader markets opened on a weaker note. The MSCI Asia ex-Japan index was down 0.5% in early trade, after rising 0.6% in the previous session. This shows that global markets are still reacting to trade-related The views, opinions, recommendations, and suggestions expressed by experts/brokerages in this article are their own and do not reflect the views of the India Today Group. It is advisable to consult a qualified broker or financial advisor before making any actual investment or trading choices.)Must Watch
National Post
07-05-2025
- Business
- National Post
Sierra Metals Reports First Quarter 2025 Consolidated Financial Results
Article content Article content Revenues of $86.1 million, 36% higher than in Q1 2024 Adjusted EBITDA (1) of $33.9 million, 114% higher than in Q1 2024 Operating cash flows before changes in working capital of $31.7 million, 122% higher than Q1 2024 Higher copper, zinc and silver production than in Q1 2024 Article content All dollar figures are in USD. Article content TORONTO — Sierra Metals Inc. (TSX: SMT | OTCQX: SMTSF | BVL: SMT) ('Sierra Metals' or the 'Company') reports consolidated financial results for the three months ending March 31, 2025 ('Q1 2025'). The information provided below are excerpts from the Company's Q1 2025 financial statements and Management's Discussion and Analysis ('MD&A'), which are available on the Company's website ( and on SEDAR+ ( under the Company's profile. Consolidated results include results from the Company's Yauricocha Mine ('Yauricocha') in Peru and the Bolivar Mine ('Bolivar') in Mexico. Article content (In thousands of dollars, except per share and cash cost amounts, consolidated figures unless noted otherwise) Q1 2025 Q4 2024 Q1 2024 Operating Ore Processed / Tonnes Milled 752,771 797,774 638,916 Copper Pounds Produced (000's) 12,783 13,533 11,247 Zinc Pounds Produced (000's) 10,831 12,301 10,132 Silver Ounces Produced (000's) 548 544 427 Gold Ounces Produced 4,014 4,009 4,505 Lead Pounds Produced (000's) 2,787 2,381 3,049 Cash Cost per CuEqLb (Yauricocha) 1,2,3 $ 2.32 $ 3.17 $ 3.55 AISC per CuEqLb (Yauricocha) 1,2,3 $ 2.82 $ 3.57 $ 3.97 Cash Cost per CuEqLb (Bolivar) 1,2 $ 2.51 $ 2.43 $ 2.34 AISC per CuEqLb (Bolivar) 1,2 $ 3.16 $ 3.06 $ 3.02 Financial Revenues $ 86,078 $ 81,036 $ 63,140 Net income (loss) – Continuing operations 3 $ 10,370 $ 8,153 $ 82 – Discontinued Operations $ – $ 1,351 $ (865 ) Net income (loss) attributable to shareholders, including discontinued operations 3 $ 7,942 $ 6,740 $ (389 ) Adjusted EBITDA 1,2 from continuing operations $ 33,911 $ 26,563 $ 15,826 Operating cash flows before movements in working capital $ 31,655 $ 16,004 $ 14,275 Adjusted net income (loss) attributable to shareholders 1 – Continuing operations 3 $ 10,808 $ 23,537 $ 3,750 – Discontinued Operations $ – $ 1,351 $ (865 ) Cash and cash equivalents $ 22,363 $ 19,826 $ 11,220 (1) This is a non-IFRS performance measure, see Non-IFRS Performance Measures section of this press release (2) Copper equivalent payable pounds used for the cash cost and AISC calculations were calculated at the following prices: Q1 2025 – $4.25/lb Cu, $1.29/lb Zn, $31.86/oz Ag, $0.90/lb Pb, $2,868/oz Au. Q4 2024 – $4.14/lb Cu, $1.38/lb Zn, $31.32/oz Ag, $0.91/lb Pb, $2,654/oz Au. Q1 2024 – $3.84/lb Cu, $1.12/lb Zn, $23.41/oz Ag, $0.94/lb Pb, $2,069/oz Au. (3) During Q4 2024, management identified certain inventory transactions that were incorrectly recorded starting in Q4 2023 and the previous quarters of 2024. Previously reported Q1 2024 results have been adjusted accordingly to correct these errors. The revised inventory balances impacted the related cost of sales and net income. Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted net income (loss) attributable to shareholders are also revised to reflect the corresponding impacts. Article content Q1 2025 Consolidated Operating Highlights Consolidated ore throughput increased by 18% in Q1 2025 compared to Q1 2024, reflecting stronger performance at both Yauricocha and Bolivar. When compared to Q4 2024, consolidated throughput was lower due to adverse weather conditions and a planned two-day mill shutdown, which impacted Q1 2025 production at Bolivar. Article content Consolidated copper production rose by 14% year-over-year, driven primarily by higher output at Yauricocha. Article content Q1 2025 Consolidated Financial Highlights Article content Consolidated revenue from metals payable amounted to $86.1 million in Q1 2025, which is a 36% increase from the $63.1 million recorded in Q1 2024, mainly driven by the increased metal production in Yauricocha and higher metal prices. Adjusted EBITDA(1) of $33.9 million for Q1 2025 was a 114% increase over Q1 2024 and a 28% increase over Q4 2024, mainly driven by the higher revenue and increased gross margins. Adjusted net income attributable to shareholders (1) of $10.8 million, or $0.05 per share, for Q1 2025 as compared to the adjusted net income of $3.8 million, or $0.01 per share for Q1 2024. Adjusted net income attributable to shareholders was lower than Q4 2024, as there was recognition of a deferred tax recovery of $22.5 million related to the loss of sale of discontinued operations in Q4 2024. Cash flow generated from operations before movements in working capital of $31.7 million for Q1 2025 increased compared to $14.3 million in Q1 2024. Cash and cash equivalents of $22.4 million as at March 31, 2025 compared to $19.8 million at the end of 2024. Cash and cash equivalents increased during Q1 2025 as a result of cash generated from operating activities of $27.2 million offset by cash used in investing activities of $20.1 million and cash used in financing activities of $4.6 million. Article content NON-IFRS PERFORMANCE MEASURES The non-IFRS performance measures presented do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and are therefore unlikely to be directly comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. Article content Non-IFRS reconciliation of adjusted EBITDA EBITDA is a non-IFRS measure that represents an indication of the Company's continuing capacity to generate earnings from operations before taking into account management's financing decisions and costs of consuming capital assets, which vary according to their vintage, technological currency, and management's estimate of their useful life. EBITDA comprises revenue less operating expenses before interest expense (income), property, plant and equipment amortization and depletion, and income taxes. Adjusted EBITDA has been included in this document. Under IFRS, entities must reflect in compensation expense the cost of share-based payments. In the Company's circumstances, share-based payments involve a significant accrual of amounts that will not be settled in cash but are settled by the issuance of shares in exchange for cash. As such, the Company has made an entity specific adjustment to EBITDA for these expenses. The Company has also made an entity-specific adjustment to the foreign currency exchange (gain)/loss. The Company considers cash flow before movements in working capital to be the IFRS performance measure that is most closely comparable to adjusted EBITDA. Article content The following table provides a reconciliation of adjusted EBITDA to the condensed interim consolidated financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024: Article content Three months ended March 31, 2025 2024 (revised) (1) Net income (loss) $ 10,370 $ (783 ) Adjusted for: Depletion and depreciation 13,010 9,634 Interest expense and other finance costs 3,704 2,405 Reorganizational and other non-recurring expenses 355 124 Share-based payments 158 634 Foreign currency exchange and other provisions 1,831 2,164 Income taxes 4,483 783 Adjusted EBITDA $ 33,911 $ 14,961 Less: Adjusted EBITDA from discontinued operations – (865 ) Adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations 33,911 15,826 (1) During Q4 2024, management identified certain inventory transactions that were incorrectly recorded starting in Q4 2023 and the previous quarters of 2024. Previously reported Q1 2024 Adjusted EBITDA has been adjusted accordingly to correct this error. Article content Non-IFRS reconciliation of adjusted net income The Company has included the non-IFRS financial performance measure of adjusted net income, defined by management as the net income attributable to shareholders shown in the statement of earnings plus the non-cash depletion charge due to the acquisition of Corona and the corresponding deferred tax recovery and certain non-recurring or non-cash items such as share-based compensation and foreign currency exchange (gains) losses. The Company believes that, in addition to conventional measures prepared in accordance with IFRS, certain investors may want to use this information to evaluate the Company's performance and ability to generate cash flows. Accordingly, it is intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance in accordance with IFRS. Article content The following table provides a reconciliation of adjusted net income to the condensed interim consolidated financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024: Article content Three months ended March 31, (In thousands of United States dollars) 2025 2024 (revised) (1) Net income (loss) attributable to shareholders $ 7,942 $ (389 ) Non-cash depletion charge on Corona's acquisition 804 1,045 Deferred tax recovery on Corona's acquisition depletion charge (282 ) (693 ) Reorganizational and other non-recurring expenses 355 124 Share-based compensation 158 634 Foreign currency exchange loss (gain) 1,831 2,164 Adjusted net income attributable to shareholders $ 10,808 $ 2,885 Less: Adjusted net loss from discontinued operations – (865 ) Adjusted net income from continuing operations 10,808 3,750 (1) During Q4 2024, management identified certain inventory transactions that were incorrectly recorded starting in Q4 2023 and the previous quarters of 2024. Previously reported Q1 2024 Adjusted net income has been adjusted accordingly to correct this error. Article content Cash cost per copper equivalent payable pound The Company uses the non-IFRS measure of cash cost per copper equivalent payable pound to manage and evaluate operating performance. The Company believes that, in addition to conventional measures prepared in accordance with IFRS, certain investors use this information to evaluate the Company's performance and ability to generate cash flows. Accordingly, it is intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. The Company considers cost of sales per copper equivalent payable pound to be the most comparable IFRS measure to cash cost per copper equivalent payable pound and has included calculations of this metric in the reconciliations within the applicable tables to follow. Article content All-in sustaining cost per copper equivalent payable pound All‐In Sustaining Cost ('AISC') is a non‐IFRS measure and is calculated based on guidance provided by the World Gold Council ('WGC'). WGC is not a regulatory industry organization and does not have the authority to develop accounting standards for disclosure requirements. Other mining companies may calculate AISC differently as a result of differences in underlying accounting principles and policies applied, as well as differences in definitions of sustaining versus development capital expenditures. Article content AISC is a more comprehensive measure than cash cost per pound for the Company's consolidated operating performance by providing greater visibility, comparability and representation of the total costs associated with producing copper from its current operations. Article content The Company defines sustaining capital expenditures as, 'costs incurred to sustain and maintain existing assets at current productive capacity and constant planned levels of productive output without resulting in an increase in the life of assets, future earnings, or improvements in recovery or grade. Sustaining capital includes costs required to improve/enhance assets to minimum standards for reliability, environmental or safety requirements. Sustaining capital expenditures excludes all expenditures at the Company's new projects and certain expenditures at current operations which are deemed expansionary in nature.' Article content Consolidated AISC includes total production cash costs incurred at the Company's mining operations, including treatment and refining charges and selling costs, which forms the basis of the Company's total cash costs. Additionally, the Company includes sustaining capital expenditures and corporate general and administrative expenses. AISC by mine does not include certain corporate and non‐cash items such as general and administrative expense and share-based payments. The Company believes that this measure represents the total sustainable costs of producing silver and copper from current operations and provides the Company and other stakeholders of the Company with additional information of the Company's operational performance and ability to generate cash flows. As the measure seeks to reflect the full cost of silver and copper production from current operations, new project capital and expansionary capital at current operations are not included. Certain other cash expenditures, including tax payments, dividends and financing costs are also not included. Article content The following table provides detailed information on Yauricocha's cash cost and all-in sustaining cost per copper equivalent payable pound for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024: Article content YAURICOCHA Three months ended (In thousand of US dollars, unless stated) March 31, 2025 March 31, 2024 (revised) (2) Cash Cost per copper equivalent payable pound Total Cash Cost 22,618 18,178 Variation in Finished inventory 1,041 1,906 Treatment and Refining Charges 2,831 5,625 Selling Costs 930 640 G&A Costs 2,049 1,520 Total Cash Cost of Sales 29,469 27,869 Sustaining Capital Expenditures 6,365 3,318 All-In Sustaining Cash Costs 35,834 31,187 Copper Equivalent Payable Pounds (000's) (1) 12,701 7,856 Cash Cost per Copper Equivalent Payable Pound (US$) 2.32 3.55 All-In Sustaining Cash Cost per Copper Equivalent Payable Pound (US$) 2.82 3.97 (1) Copper equivalent payable pounds were calculated at the following prices: Q1 2025 – $4.25/lb Cu, $1.29/lb Zn, $31.86/oz Ag, $0.90/lb Pb, $2,868/oz Au. Q1 2024 – $3.84/lb Cu, $1.12/lb Zn, $23.41/oz Ag, $0.94/lb Pb, $2,069/oz Au. (2) During Q4 2024, management identified certain inventory transactions that were incorrectly recorded starting in Q4 2023 and the previous quarters of 2024. Previously reported Q1 2024 cost of sales has been adjusted accordingly to correct this error. Article content The following table provides detailed information on Bolivar's cash cost, and all-in sustaining cost per copper equivalent payable pound for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024: Article content BOLIVAR Three months ended (In thousand of US dollars, unless stated) March 31, 2025 March 31, 2024 (revised) (2) Cash Cost per copper equivalent payable pound Total Cash Cost 17,335 18,765 Variation in Finished inventory (661 ) (326 ) Treatment and Refining Charges 1,925 2,854 Selling Costs 2,180 2,639 G&A Costs 1,538 1,557 Total Cash Cost of Sales 22,317 25,489 Sustaining Capital Expenditures 5,855 7,383 All-In Sustaining Cash Costs 28,172 32,872 Copper Equivalent Payable Pounds (000's) (1) 8,908 10,880 Cash Cost per Copper Equivalent Payable Pound (US$) 2.51 2.34 All-In Sustaining Cash Cost per Copper Equivalent Payable Pound (US$) 3.16 3.02 (1) Copper equivalent payable pounds were calculated at the following prices: Q1 2025 – $4.25/lb Cu, $1.29/lb Zn, $31.86/oz Ag, $0.90/lb Pb, $2,868/oz Au. Q1 2024 – $3.84/lb Cu, $1.12/lb Zn, $23.41/oz Ag, $0.94/lb Pb, $2,069/oz Au. (2) G&A costs updated to exclude corporate allocations for consistency with Yauricocha calculations. Article content Additional non-IFRS measures The Company uses other financial measures, the presentation of which is not meant to be a substitute for other subtotals or totals presented in accordance with IFRS, but rather should be evaluated in conjunction with such IFRS measures. The following other financial measures are used: Article content Operating cash flows before movements in working capital – excludes the movement from period-to-period in working capital items including trade and other receivables, prepaid expenses, deposits, inventories, trade and other payables and the effects of foreign exchange rates on these items. Article content The terms described above do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS, and therefore the Company's definitions are unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. The Company's management believes that their presentation provides useful information to investors because cash flows generated from operations before changes in working capital excludes the movement in working capital items. This, in management's view, provides useful information of the Company's cash flows from operations and are considered to be meaningful in evaluating the Company's past financial performance or its future prospects. The most comparable IFRS measure is cash flows from operating activities. Article content About Sierra Metals Sierra Metals is a Canadian mining company focused on copper production with additional base and precious metals by-product credits at its Yauricocha Mine in Peru and Bolivar Mine in Mexico. The Company is intent on safely increasing production volume and growing mineral resources. Sierra Metals has recently had several new key discoveries and still has many more exciting brownfield exploration opportunities in Peru and Mexico that are within close proximity to the existing mines. Additionally, the Company has large land packages at each of its mines with several prospective regional targets providing longer-term exploration upside and mineral resource growth potential. For further information regarding Sierra Metals, please visit Article content Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information relates to future events or the anticipated performance of Sierra and reflect management's expectations or beliefs regarding such future events and anticipated performance based on an assumed set of economic conditions and courses of action. In certain cases, statements that contain forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words such as 'plans', 'expects', 'is expected', 'budget', 'scheduled', 'estimates', 'forecasts', 'intends', 'anticipates', 'believes' or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results 'may', 'could', 'would', 'might', or 'will be taken', 'occur' or 'be achieved' or the negative of these words or comparable terminology. By its very nature forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual performance of Sierra to be materially different from any anticipated performance expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Article content Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking information, including, without limitation, the risks described under the heading 'Risk Factors' in the Company's annual information form dated March 26, 2025 for its fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 and other risks identified in the Company's filings with Canadian securities regulators, which are available at Article content The risk factors referred to above are not an exhaustive list of the factors that may affect any of the Company's forward-looking information. Forward-looking information includes statements about the future and is inherently uncertain, and the Company's actual achievements or other future events or conditions may differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking information due to a variety of risks, uncertainties and other factors. The Company's statements containing forward-looking information are based on the beliefs, expectations, and opinions of management on the date the statements are made, and the Company does not assume any obligation to update such forward-looking information if circumstances or management's beliefs, expectations or opinions should change, other than as required by applicable law. For the reasons set forth above, one should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content
Associated Press
09-04-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Aegis Software and Hanwha Partner to Deliver SaaS-Based SMT Programming for Increased Efficiency and Accuracy
Aegis Software, a global provider of Manufacturing Operations Management Software (MOM/MES) software, today announced a partnership with Hanwha Semitech Americas, a leader in Surface Mount Technology (SMT) and electronics assembly solutions. Through this partnership, Hanwha SMT customers in the U.S. will have the option to leverage Aegis' FactoryLogix® Machine Programmer solution, available as a cloud-based SaaS offering—enabling automated machine programming, faster new product introduction (NPI), and improved production efficiency without the need for on-premises infrastructure. FactoryLogix Machine Programmer automates the conversion of CAD and BOM data into machine programs in seconds, with support for Gerber data and virtually all EDA CAD file types and versions spanning decades. By automating part number assignment, board rotation, and panelization, manufacturers can eliminate manual errors, reduce setup times, and ensure accurate component placement—accelerating time-to-market. As part of this partnership, FactoryLogix Machine Programmer will be available as a SaaS-based option specifically for Hanwha SMT customers in the U.S. This cloud-based model eliminates IT infrastructure burdens while ensuring seamless, automated machine programming. With automatic updates, manufacturers always have access to the latest features and optimizations without manual intervention. The fully managed cloud environment removes the need for costly on-premises maintenance, while its scalable nature allows businesses to easily adjust to changing production demands—whether for high-mix or high-volume environments. 'At Hanwha, we are committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions that simplify and optimize the SMT programming process,' said Tim Kang, CEO of Hanwha Semitech Americas. 'By offering Aegis' FactoryLogix Machine Programmer as a SaaS solution, we enable our customers to streamline machine programming, reduce complexity, and accelerate production—all while leveraging the power of cloud-based automation.' Key Benefits of the Aegis-Hanwha Solution Automated CAD, BOM, and Gerber file conversion for rapid, error-free programming. Advanced placement accuracy and optimization for smoother production ramp-ups. Reduction in manual setup time with automated part number addition, board origin adjustments, and panelization. Cloud-based access and scalability for a future-ready manufacturing environment. Seamless expansion path to broader digital manufacturing initiatives with FactoryLogix Manufacturing Operations platform. 'We are excited to collaborate with Hanwha to provide a SaaS-enabled machine programming solution that eliminates complexity and accelerates production readiness,' said Jason Spera, CEO and Co-Founder of Aegis Software. 'This partnership reflects the growing demand for scalable, cloud-based solutions that provide manufacturers with greater flexibility, automation, and efficiency—ensuring they stay competitive in a fast-moving industry.' About Aegis Software Aegis Software delivers a comprehensive and flexible end-to-end manufacturing operations management platform giving manufacturers the speed, control, and visibility they require. Aegis has international sales and support offices in Germany, UK, and China, and partners with more than 37 manufacturing equipment suppliers. Since its inception, Aegis has been helping more than 2,200 factories across the military, aerospace, electronics, medical, and automotive industries, drive rapid and continuous innovation with the highest quality while reducing operational costs. Learn more by visiting Speed, Control and Visibility for Manufacturing. Note: FactoryLogix is a registered trademark of Aegis Industrial Software. All other company and product names contained herein are trademarks of the respective holders. About Hanwha Semitech Hanwha Semitech is a leading provider of high-performance SMT and semiconductor assembly solutions, known for cutting-edge automation, precision placement, and advanced production technologies. With a strong legacy in industrial innovation and smart manufacturing, Hanwha delivers solutions that empower manufacturers to achieve scalability, flexibility, and competitive advantage. For more information, visit CONTACT: Aegis Software Debbie Geiger Vice President, Global Marketing +1 215-773-3571 SOURCE: Aegis Software Copyright Business Wire 2025. PUB: 04/09/2025 08:15 AM/DISC: 04/09/2025 08:15 AM
Japan Times
04-04-2025
- Automotive
- Japan Times
Veteran driver Denny Hamlin showing no signs of slowing down
Denny Hamlin is the self-proclaimed "king of irrational confidence," but after a dominant performance at Martinsville Speedway this past Sunday, it's hard to say that confidence is misplaced. At 44 years old, Hamlin is around the age where drivers tend to slow down. The trips to victory lane become few and far between, and top-10 runs become the new standard for success. For Hamlin, however, that doesn't appear to be the case. Hamlin brought a 31-race winless streak into Martinsville and left with a grandfather clock after leading 274 of 400 laps. It was a performance that showed Hamlin still has plenty of gas in the tank, and one that should inspire confidence in Hamlin as the season rolls on. According to those around him, Hamlin has had to ramp up his training and preparation as the years have stacked up. "He's probably in the simulator more than anyone," car owner Joe Gibbs said of Hamlin. "I think it says a lot about him. He works his rear end off." "I'm surprised at how hard he does work," crew chief Chris Gayle said. "Like (Gibbs) is talking about, we (Gayle and Hamlin) were texting last night; he was watching 2022 SMT data from here. He's had to ramp up the amount of work he's done where he may have gotten by earlier (in his career) without doing that. I think he still has a drive and determination to win." That drive comes from a part of Hamlin that is still goal-oriented. On Sunday, Hamlin tied 1989 Cup Series champion Rusty Wallace for 11th on the all-time wins list with 55 Cup Series victories. "There are still goals left for him at this age," Gayle said. "I think it's no secret he wants to get 60 wins. It's one thing to talk about it, but I'm starting to see the amount of effort he puts in. He's with us in the simulator six or seven days a week. He does it to help the team. I think that speaks to where his head is at this age." As Hamlin climbed atop his Toyota to celebrate the win, his crew members handed him a flag that was given to the No. 11 team by a group of Hamlin's fans. Amidst a light-blue background were the words, "11 AGAINST THE WORLD." If you know anything about Hamlin, however, the flag was more than a funny slogan. It encapsulates an athlete that has embraced his role as one of NASCAR's most controversial drivers, and done so while still being near the top of his game. "Why not?" Hamlin said when asked why he held up the flag in front of the Martinsville crowd. "That's me. Go shoot hoops with me, go play pickleball with me, go play golf with me — if I can't (trash)-talk, it takes my superpower away. It really does. I'm not nearly as good." Hamlin's methods of motivation and celebration have earned him plenty of detractors over the years, but it's that same mentality that has carried the future Hall of Famer to victory lane 55 times. After winning the 2023 Bristol night race, Hamlin quipped to the crowd that he had "just beat their favorite driver" — a quote that earned a sequel after Hamlin won the Clash at the LA Coliseum in February 2024. The fiery, competitive side of Hamlin could be credited with keeping the 20-year veteran of NASCAR's top echelon motivated as he approaches the twilight of his career. And while his victory at Martinsville was important in the moment, it also paints a picture of a No. 11 team poised for another deep playoff run. While Hamlin hasn't made the Championship 4 since 2021, he hasn't missed the Round of 8 since 2018. He may not be in his prime anymore, but he is a perennial threat to make the penultimate round of the playoffs at the least — and with NASCAR's current playoff format, anything is possible if you can make that far. In the short-term, upcoming races at Darlington (April 6) and Bristol (April 13) play right into Hamlin's strengths. Hamlin is the defending winner of the Bristol spring race, and has led 256 laps over six Next-Gen races at Darlington. There's no reason to think his performance at Martinsville was a fluky one-off, especially considering how many tracks there are on the schedule where he could be considered the odds-on favorite to win. Hamlin may not be at his statistical or physical peak anymore, but he's doing what many drivers before him failed to do as they aged — consistently win races and be in championship contention, all while becoming more motivated with every passing year.
Reuters
04-04-2025
- Automotive
- Reuters
Fiery Denny Hamlin is walking the walk
April 4 - Denny Hamlin is the self-proclaimed "king of irrational confidence," but after a dominant performance at Martinsville Speedway this past Sunday, it's hard to say that confidence is misplaced. At 44 years old, Hamlin is around the age where drivers tend to slow down. The trips to victory lane become few and far between, and top-10 runs become the new standard for success. For Hamlin, however, that doesn't appear to be the case. Hamlin brought a 31-race winless streak into Martinsville and left with a grandfather clock after leading 274 of 400 laps. It was a performance that showed Hamlin still has plenty of gas in the tank, and one that should inspire confidence in Hamlin as the season rolls on. According to those around him, Hamlin has had to ramp up his training and preparation as the years have stacked up. "He's probably in the simulator more than anyone," car owner Joe Gibbs said of Hamlin. "I think it says a lot about him. He works his rear end off." "I'm surprised at how hard he does work," crew chief Chris Gayle said. "Like (Gibbs) is talking about, we (Gayle and Hamlin) were texting last night; he was watching 2022 SMT data from here. He's had to ramp up the amount of work he's done where he may have gotten by earlier (in his career) without doing that. I think he still has a drive and determination to win." That drive comes from a part of Hamlin that is still goal-oriented. On Sunday, Hamlin tied 1989 Cup Series champion Rusty Wallace for 11th on the all-time wins list with 55 Cup Series victories. "There are still goals left for him at this age," Gayle said. "I think it's no secret he wants to get 60 wins. It's one thing to talk about it, but I'm starting to see the amount of effort he puts in. He's with us in the simulator six or seven days a week. He does it to help the team. I think that speaks to where his head is at this age." As Hamlin climbed atop his Toyota to celebrate the win, his crew members handed him a flag that was given to the No. 11 team by a group of Hamlin's fans. Amidst a light-blue background were the words, "11 AGAINST THE WORLD." If you know anything about Hamlin, however, the flag was more than a funny slogan. It encapsulates an athlete that has embraced his role as one of NASCAR's most controversial drivers, and done so while still being near the top of his game. "Why not?" Hamlin said when asked why he held up the flag in front of the Martinsville crowd. "That's me. Go shoot hoops with me, go play pickleball with me, go play golf with me -- if I can't (trash)-talk, it takes my superpower away. It really does. I'm not nearly as good." Hamlin's methods of motivation and celebration have earned him plenty of detractors over the years, but it's that same mentality that has carried the future Hall of Famer to victory lane 55 times. After winning the 2023 Bristol night race, Hamlin quipped to the crowd that he had "just beat their favorite driver" -- a quote that earned a sequel after Hamlin won the Clash at the LA Coliseum in February 2024. The fiery, competitive side of Hamlin could be credited with keeping the 20-year veteran of NASCAR's top echelon motivated as he approaches the twilight of his career. And while his victory at Martinsville was important in the moment, it also paints a picture of a No. 11 team poised for another deep playoff run. While Hamlin hasn't made the Championship 4 since 2021, he hasn't missed the Round of 8 since 2018. He may not be in his prime anymore, but he is a perennial threat to make the penultimate round of the playoffs at the least -- and with NASCAR's current playoff format, anything is possible if you can make that far. In the short-term, upcoming races at Darlington (April 6) and Bristol (April 13) play right into Hamlin's strengths. Hamlin is the defending winner of the Bristol spring race, and has led 256 laps over six Next-Gen races at Darlington. There's no reason to think his performance at Martinsville was a fluky one-off, especially considering how many tracks there are on the schedule where he could be considered the odds-on favorite to win. Hamlin may not be at his statistical or physical peak anymore, but he's doing what many drivers before him failed to do as they aged -- consistently win races and be in championship contention, all while becoming more motivated with every passing year. --Samuel Stubbs, Field Level Media
