Latest news with #ThomasSchulz
CNBC
4 days ago
- Business
- CNBC
Low productivity needs to be addressed in Germany, says Bilfinger CEO
Thomas Schulz, CEO of Bilfinger, discusses Q2 results and how he sees the current state of the German economy.
Yahoo
05-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Bilfinger SE (BFLBF) (Q4 2024) Earnings Call Highlights: Strong Revenue Growth and Improved ...
Revenue: Increased by 12% to more than EUR5 billion for 2024. EBITDA Margin: Improved from 4.3% to 5.2%, a 39% increase. Free Cash Flow: Increased by 55% to EUR189 million. Earnings Per Share: EUR4.79 for the full year 2024. Dividend Proposal: EUR2.40 per share for 2024. Orders Received: Up by 13% to EUR5.3 billion. Order Backlog: Reported a 22% improvement. Net Profit: Adjusted net profit increased to EUR169 million. Cash Conversion Rate: 71%, with an adjusted rate of 88%. Net Debt/EBITDA: 0.54%, well below the 2.00 upper ceiling. Warning! GuruFocus has detected 4 Warning Signs with BBY. Release Date: March 04, 2025 For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript. Bilfinger SE (BFLBF) achieved all financial targets for 2024, with orders received up by 13% and revenue up by 12%. EBITDA margin improved from 4.3% to 5.2%, indicating a solid financial performance. The company reported a significant increase in free cash flow, from EUR122 million to EUR189 million, marking a 55% improvement. Bilfinger SE (BFLBF) maintained a positive cash flow for six consecutive quarters, showcasing effective working capital management. The company proposed a dividend of EUR2.40 for 2024, reflecting a payout ratio of 53% in line with its dividend policy. The LTIF (Lost Time Injury Frequency) indicator showed a negative trend, highlighting a deterioration in occupational safety. EBITDA margin in the international segment decreased from 5.4% to 1.6% in Q4 due to risk provisioning for discontinued projects in North America. Orders received in the international segment dropped by 22%, partly due to slowed decision-making in the US following a new administration. The company faces challenges in the chemical and petrochemical industries, particularly in Germany, due to regional differences and market conditions. The guidance for 2025 includes a broad range for revenue and EBITDA, reflecting uncertainties in economic scenarios and political decisions. Q: Can you provide more details on the broad range of guidance for 2025, especially concerning the segment Europe? A: Thomas Schulz, CEO: The range is influenced by various factors, including political decisions and economic scenarios. In the US, delays in government approvals could impact the lower end of our guidance. The Middle East is performing as expected, with opportunities for growth. In Europe, the outcome of the German election and subsequent infrastructure investments will significantly affect our performance. If these investments materialize, we could see growth towards the higher end of our guidance. Q: Is the high cash conversion rate of around 90% sustainable going forward? A: Matti Jaekel, CFO: While achieving a 90% cash conversion rate is favorable, we are targeting an 80% rate as a sustainable midterm goal. The recent high rates were supported by favorable order intake and advance payments, which may not be consistent every year. We aim to maintain an 80% rate as a realistic target. Q: Regarding the US market, are there any remaining financial risks with the last construction projects? A: Thomas Schulz, CEO: We are finalizing the last remaining construction project, and it is properly provisioned. There are no new developments regarding the Sapelo Island incident in Georgia. Q: Why is there only a moderate margin increase expected for this year compared to last year? A: Thomas Schulz, CEO: This year is unique due to the US election and the German government's slow activity, impacting market dynamics. We aim for sustainable, profitable growth and expect margin expansion as political and economic conditions stabilize, particularly in the second half of 2025. Q: How is the order intake progressing in Europe and the US, considering the current economic conditions? A: Thomas Schulz, CEO: In the US, despite a temporary slowdown due to government activities, demand remains strong, particularly in energy-related industries. In Europe, while the chemical industry faces challenges, we continue to receive orders. Political decisions on infrastructure and energy costs will influence future order volumes. For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript. This article first appeared on GuruFocus. Sign in to access your portfolio
Bloomberg
04-03-2025
- Business
- Bloomberg
Bilfinger CEO Thomas Schulz: German Competitiveness Needs to Improve
It is 'highly necessary' that Germany improves its competitiveness after suffering from 'weak decisions' made by politicians says Thomas Schulz, CEO of Bilfinger. To do this, there needs to be far more investment in infrastructure, he says. Thomas spoke to Lizzy Burden, Anna Edwards, and Guy Johnson on 'Bloomberg: The Opening Trade'. (Source: Bloomberg)
Zawya
10-02-2025
- Automotive
- Zawya
Gargash Mercedes-Benz Service Center in Deira embarks on a new era of excellence, innovation, and legacy
DUBAI: Gargash Enterprises, the official distributor of Mercedes-Benz in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, proudly announces the refurbishment of its iconic Deira Service Centre, a facility that has been central to its legacy since the 1960s. At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Thomas Schulz, General Manager of Mercedes-Benz Passenger Cars, stated, 'This service centre is more than just a facility—it represents our commitment to excellence and customer trust. The refurbishment reflects our dedication to innovation, sustainability, and an enhanced customer experience.' The upgraded facility aligns with the latest Mercedes-Benz Corporate Identity (CI) MAR20X, integrating state-of-the-art digital tools, interactive screens, and ergonomic design to improve service efficiency. With 48 working bays, the service centre can handle a higher volume of vehicles while maintaining precision and care. The three active receptions ensure smoother customer intake and reduced waiting times. Additionally, the 11,000-item parts inventory guarantees that genuine Mercedes-Benz parts are always available, minimizing delays in repairs and maintenance. The refurbishment also incorporates advanced technology and ergonomic design, enabling a team of eight Service Advisors and 35 Parts professionals to work more effectively, ensuring faster turnaround times and superior service quality. To further enhance convenience, the facility features a 24/7 Express Self Check-in service, allowing customers to drop off their vehicle keys at a check-in kiosk for regular service at any time, with minimal waiting times. Beyond infrastructure improvements, the customer journey has been redefined to reflect the luxury and sophistication of Mercedes-Benz. Enhanced waiting lounges, dedicated Service Advisors, and streamlined operations offer a premium and stress-free experience. Gargash Enterprises extends its gratitude to its loyal customers, dedicated team, and partners at Mercedes-Benz Cars Middle East for their continued support. As the Gargash Mercedes-Benz Service Centre in Deira embarks on its next chapter, it remains a trusted destination for Mercedes-Benz owners, ensuring their vehicles are in the best hands. About Gargash Group Established in 1918, Gargash Group is one of the UAE's leading business enterprises. Today, the group comprises a family of internationally renowned brands operating across four verticals: automotive, real estate, financial services and F&B. It is recognized for its global expertise and deep understanding of local markets, which has enabled the group to deliver integrated, innovative and competitive services. The group has introduced leading global automotive brands into the UAE, including Mercedes-Benz, Alfa Romeo, GAC MOTOR, SIXT Rent Car, SIXT Leasing & SIXT Limousine. Since 1998, Gargash Group's financial services arm, Daman Investments, has provided advisory, asset management, brokerage, and wealth management services in the UAE. Gargash Real Estate develops and manages high-quality residential, commercial, and industrial properties across the country. The group also includes several leading brands in the Restaurant and Hotel industry.
Bloomberg
06-02-2025
- Business
- Bloomberg
German CEOs Say It's Time to Act on a Sagging Economy
German CEOs have a clear message for the country's next government: The moribund economy needs urgent attention. With an election coming on Feb. 23, growth is stuck. Speaking on a panel hosted by Bloomberg, the CEO of engineering firm Bilfinger, Thomas Schulz, said the falling investment seen during Angela Merkel's 16 years in power worsened under Olaf Scholz, adding that politicians failed to take the action needed to boost corporate spending on new staff and equipment. On the added concerns about US tariffs being imposed by President Donald Trump, Commerzbank CEO Bettina Orlopp said those should be seen less as a threat than a call to action. 'I think it's all about deals, so to parties that need to sit together and strike a deal,' she said.
