Latest news with #costefficiency
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Amazon's AI-Powered Cost Cuts, Labor Gains And Record Prime Day Drive Analyst's Bullish Outlook
(NASDAQ:AMZN) continued focus on innovation and cost-efficiency is driving significant shifts in its operational strategy, positioning the company for long-term growth. As the integration of advanced technologies like AI becomes more prevalent, Amazon's ability to capitalize on these developments is increasingly seen as a critical factor in its financial performance. Needham analyst Laura Martin maintained a Buy rating on Amazon and increased the price forecast from $220 to $265 on raised their estimates and price target on Amazon, citing several key catalysts that signal further upside for the stock. She pointed to strong AWS revenue growth, margin expansion in second-quarter 2025, and record-breaking Prime Day sales in third-quarter that are expected to boost the company's outlook. Martin noted that Amazon has moved past peak-tariff pressures and is now structurally lowering costs through the integration of generative AI into its logistics infrastructure. According to the analyst, these advancements improve automation efficiency across its fulfillment network. She noted that another key driver is Amazon's notable progress in labor productivity. Martin noted this as a critical leading indicator of stock performance and highlighted it as a core metric that links employee quality directly to financial returns—absolute, trending, and relative—per employee. From a valuation standpoint, the analyst noted Amazon as attractively priced. She said it trades at the lowest EV/Revenue and second-lowest EV/EBITDA multiples among major Big Tech peers. As a result, Martin lifted her estimates across the board. For second-quarter 2025, Martin forecasted net sales of $162 billion (+2% Y/Y), EBITDA of $38.1 billion (+7% Y/Y), and EPS of $1.30, up 9% from prior estimates despite being down 9% Y/Y. For the full year 2025, the analyst's estimates rose to $694.9 billion in net sales (+9% Y/Y), $161.8 billion in EBITDA (+15% Y/Y), and $6.20 in EPS (+12% Y/Y). For 2026, she forecasted $763.3 billion in net sales (+10% Y/Y), $195.1 billion in EBITDA (+21% Y/Y), and EPS of $7.43, reflecting 20% Y/Y growth. The bullish revisions reflect growing confidence that Amazon's AI investments, operating leverage, and productivity improvements set the stage for sustained earnings momentum. Price Action: AMZN stock is down 1.06% at $226.87 at last check Tuesday. Image via Shutterstock Up Next: Transform your trading with Benzinga Edge's one-of-a-kind market trade ideas and tools. Click now to access unique insights that can set you ahead in today's competitive market. Get the latest stock analysis from Benzinga? (AMZN): Free Stock Analysis Report This article Amazon's AI-Powered Cost Cuts, Labor Gains And Record Prime Day Drive Analyst's Bullish Outlook originally appeared on © 2025 Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved. Error while retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data
Yahoo
15-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Alarm.com Launches the ADC-T25 Smart Thermostat: Advanced HVAC Control at an Accessible Price
The newest smart thermostat from combines cost-efficiency with advanced features to deliver comfort and control to more customers than ever TYSONS, Va., July 15, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- (Nasdaq: ALRM) announces the release of its latest Smart Thermostat—the ADC-T25. Building on the proven reliability of suite of thermostats, the T25 is compatible with most common HVAC systems, offering the easiest installation yet, a streamlined design, and advanced sensing capabilities, all at a market-expanding, affordable price point. Designed by Building36 with easy installation in mind, the T25 has flexible wiring options that allow it to operate on battery power if no C-wire is present. This eliminates the need to run wires or use a retrofit kit. It also includes auto-configuration with wire detection. Full integration with the platform enables remote control of the thermostat and customizable automation options. Enrolled customers receive monthly reports featuring personalized efficiency tips, key metrics like overall run time, and updates on any system issues. "Our goal is to provide an advanced smart thermostat that's accessible to more homeowners than ever before," said Dan Kerzner, President, Platforms Business at "The ADC-T25 combines the advanced features and reliability of our premium thermostats with affordability and streamlined installation, making it available to a broader market. It's a powerful, entry-level thermostat that balances simplicity with smart technology." The T25 additionally supports participation in demand response programs, giving customers incentives if they allow temporary adjustments to their thermostat settings during periods of peak demand. The T25 also enables Pro HVAC Monitoring, connecting customers with local service providers when the system detects anomalies. Both customers and their preferred HVAC professionals are notified instantly, and service appointments can be requested directly from the mobile app. Service providers also benefit from these programs by receiving recurring revenue for every customer enrolled. systems are professionally installed and monitored across the US and Canada as well as select international markets. For more information on the ADC-T25 and the broader ecosystem of products and services, visit About is the leading platform for the intelligently connected property. Millions of consumers and businesses depend on technology to manage and control their property from anywhere. Our platform integrates with a growing variety of Internet of Things (IoT) devices through our apps and interfaces. Our security, video, access control, intelligent automation, energy management, and wellness solutions are available through our network of thousands of professional service providers in North America and around the globe. common stock is traded on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol ALRM. For more information, please visit View source version on Contacts Rachel Public Relationsrasmith@ Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
03-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Dustin Group AB (STU:9DG) Q3 2025 Earnings Call Highlights: Navigating Challenges with ...
Revenue: SEK5,089 million, with an organic growth of 2.9%. Gross Profit: SEK680 million, down from last year's SEK821 million. Gross Margin: 13.4%, compared to last year's 15.0%. Adjusted EBITA: SEK72 million, down from SEK130 million last year. EBITA Margin: 1.4%, compared to last year's 2.4%. Cash Flow from Operating Activities: SEK139 million, compared to last year's SEK454 million. Leverage: Reduced to 4.3% from 6.0% last quarter. SGA Expenses: Decreased by 14%, excluding Forex impact decreased by 11%. Number of FTEs: Reduced by 150 or 7% compared to the same quarter last year. Net Proceeds from Rights Issue: Approximately SEK1,240 million. Inventory Levels: SEK1,098 million, above preferred levels. Net Working Capital: SEK261 million, higher than last year's minus SEK205 million. Warning! GuruFocus has detected 6 Warning Signs with STU:9DG. Release Date: July 02, 2025 For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript. Dustin Group AB (STU:9DG) achieved an organic sales growth of 2.9% in Q3, with stabilization observed in the SMB market. The company successfully completed a rights issue, reducing leverage from 6.0% to 4.3%, which strengthens its financial position. Cost efficiency measures have been effective, with SGA expenses decreasing by 14% and a reduction of 150 full-time employees, contributing to improved cost structure. The strategic decision to exit the consumer market and focus on B2B is expected to enhance strategic focus and operational efficiency. Standardization of services in the Nordics has shown clear margin support, with plans to extend this initiative to other regions for further benefits. Gross profit decreased to SEK680 million from SEK821 million last year, primarily due to lower gross margins. Adjusted EBITA fell to SEK72 million from SEK130 million, with a reduced EBITA margin of 1.4% compared to 2.4% last year. The Netherlands market faced significant challenges, with price competition leading to a 20% year-over-year sales drop. Cash flow from operating activities decreased significantly to SEK139 million from SEK454 million last year, impacted by increased inventory and delayed payments. The Benelux region experienced a negative margin effect of 1.7%, driven by low-margin new contracts and price competition in the Netherlands. Q: On the agreement and lower profitability in the Netherlands, are these entirely new contracts, or are they contracts being renewed with lower pricing points? A: Johan Karlsson, CEO: They are a combination of new and renewed contracts, primarily linked to frame agreements with mini tenders. The market's small volumes have led to high price competition. Q: Do you see any gap from the refresh cycle on the LCP side, and when might this trend pick up? A: Johan Karlsson, CEO: We see signs of renewal, but market uncertainty blurs the picture. Some customers are delaying investments, but we expect increased activity from Microsoft and PC vendors to drive changes. Q: Are there any temporary headwinds for margins due to Microsoft license agreements renewal? A: Johan Karlsson, CEO: While we lose on enterprise agreements, moving to cloud-based licenses offers better compensation. It's a trade-off, but overall, we expect it to be relatively neutral in the coming quarters. Q: What is driving the 10% year-over-year increase in Swedish sales in Q3? A: Julia Lagerqvist, CFO: The main driver is activities within the defense sector on the public side, although there are positive signs in larger SMB segments as well. Q: What is your turnaround plan for the Dutch market, and are you considering structural changes in Benelux? A: Johan Karlsson, CEO: We are building the SMB online business in the Netherlands and adding value through product life cycle services. In Belgium, we aim to grow market share through public tenders, improving the overall Benelux situation. For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript. This article first appeared on GuruFocus.
Globe and Mail
01-07-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
4 Miscellaneous Food Stocks to Keep an Eye on Amid Market Challenges
The Zacks Food-Miscellaneous industry continues to face a tough macroeconomic backdrop, with persistent inflation weighing on consumer spending and accelerating the shift toward private-label alternatives. At the same time, rising input costs and increased operational expenses are squeezing profit margins across the sector. To navigate these pressures, food companies are embracing strategic initiatives centered on cost efficiency, product innovation and portfolio diversification. Industry leaders such as Mondelez International, Inc. MDLZ, Sysco Corporation SYY, McCormick & Company MKC and Celsius Holdings, Inc. CELH are leveraging these efforts to drive growth in an evolving marketplace. About the Industry The Zacks Food-Miscellaneous industry consists of companies that manufacture and sell a wide range of food and packaged food items, such as cereals, flour, sauces, bakery items, spices and condiments, natural and organic food items and frozen products. Some companies also provide comfort food items, such as chocolates and ready-to-serve meals, soups and snacks. A few players are engaged in providing pet food products and supplements. Several food companies also offer organic and natural products. Companies operating in this space sell their products mainly through wholesalers, distributors, large retail organizations, grocery chains, mass merchandisers, drug stores and e-commerce service providers. Some also cater to foodservice channels, including restaurants, cafes and hotels. Others offer services to schools, hospitals and industry caterers. Major Trends Shaping the Future of the Food Industry Challenging Market Landscape: The food industry is facing a tough macroeconomic landscape, with persistent inflation and shrinking consumer spending power reshaping buying habits. Shoppers are increasingly opting for lower-cost alternatives, with private-label products gaining ground over traditional national brands. At the same time, reduced foot traffic in quick-service restaurants is contributing to weaker foodservice performance, putting pressure on sales in key markets. As a result, many leading food brands are reporting softer sales volumes. To combat these challenges, food companies are shifting strategies — emphasizing value-focused marketing, launching targeted promotional campaigns and expanding their portfolios with affordable, budget-friendly product lines to better meet evolving consumer demand. Cost Pressure: Food companies are under growing pressure as rising costs weigh heavily on margins. Elevated key input prices — such as raw ingredients, labor, packaging and transportation — are tightening profitability. On top of that, businesses are absorbing additional operational expenses tied to essential long-term investments in efficiency, performance upgrades, and capacity expansion. While necessary for future growth, these initiatives are creating short-term financial strain. Compounding the issue, global trade tensions and tariffs have further escalated input costs, especially for imported materials. In response, companies across the food sector are aggressively pursuing cost-control strategies — streamlining supply chains, optimizing sourcing, and implementing operational efficiencies — to protect margins and navigate this inflationary environment. Strengthening Brands and Revamping Portfolio: Established brands continue to provide a competitive edge, fueling strong customer loyalty and supporting business growth. This advantage, combined with a commitment to innovation, has helped companies maintain their market position. As demand for healthier and more nutritious products rises, companies are introducing innovative organic options and expanding their wellness-focused offerings. Beyond product development, efforts to modernize production capabilities and diversify product portfolios have delivered meaningful results. These initiatives have reinforced market positioning while paving the way for future expansion by ensuring adaptability to shifting consumer preferences and industry trends. The ability to stay aligned with evolving customer demands has become a crucial driver of success. Zacks Industry Rank Indicates Dull Prospects The Zacks Food-Miscellaneous industry is housed within the broader Zacks Consumer Staples sector. The industry currently carries a Zacks Industry Rank #187, which places it in the bottom 24% of more than 250 Zacks industries. The group's Zacks Industry Rank, which is the average of the Zacks Rank of all the member stocks, indicates dull near-term prospects. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1. Looking at the aggregate earnings estimate revisions, it appears that analysts are gradually losing confidence about this group's earnings growth potential. Since the beginning of April 2025, the industry's consensus earnings estimate for the current financial year has declined 3.1%. Let's take a look at the industry's performance and current valuation. Industry vs. Broader Market The Zacks Food-Miscellaneous industry has underperformed the S&P 500 and the broader Zacks Consumer Staples sector over the past year. The industry has declined 6.9% over this period against the S&P 500's growth of 12.5%. Meanwhile, the broader sector has gained 3.9% in the said time frame. One-Year Price Performance Industry's Current Valuation On the basis of forward 12-month price-to-earnings (P/E), which is commonly used for valuing consumer staples stocks, the industry is currently trading at 15.85X compared with the S&P 500's 22.43X and the sector's 17.39X. Over the past five years, the industry has traded as high as 20.75X and as low as 14.47X, with the median being at 17.53X, as the chart below shows. Price-to-Earnings Ratio (Past 5 Years) 4 Food Stocks to Keep a Close Eye On Mondelez: This Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) company is a global powerhouse in the confectionery, food, beverage, and snack food industry. With a strong portfolio of iconic brands such as Oreo, Ritz, LU, Clif Bar, and Tate's Bake Shop — as well as premium chocolates like Cadbury Dairy Milk, Milka, and Toblerone — Mondelez continues to shape the future of snacking. The company is delivering consistent growth by focusing on its core categories, including chocolate, biscuits, and baked snacks. Strategic portfolio reshaping, ongoing investment in product innovation, and impactful brand activations are key drivers of Mondelez's long-term success. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. By enhancing brand relevance, optimizing operational efficiency, and maintaining disciplined cost management, Mondelez is well-positioned to sustain financial performance. Additionally, the company is investing in healthier snacking options to meet rising consumer demand for well-being and active lifestyle choices. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Mondelez's current financial-year earnings per share (EPS) has remained unchanged at $3.02 in the last 30 days. Shares of MDLZ have gained 2.2% in the past year. Price and Consensus: MDLZ Sysco: This Zacks Rank #3 company continues to capitalize on growth opportunities within the expanding food-away-from-home market, supported by its diversified operations and strategic initiatives. The company's "Recipe for Growth" framework is central to its long-term success, enhancing capabilities across sales, supply chain, and customer engagement. Sysco's five strategic pillars include elevating the customer experience through advanced digital tools, optimizing supply chain operations for greater efficiency and consistency, and delivering customer-focused merchandising and marketing solutions to drive sales. In addition, the company is strengthening its performance through team-based selling strategies and expanding into new channels, segments, and capabilities. Cost-efficiency remains a key focus, with Sysco making targeted investments backed by savings initiatives. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for SYY's current fiscal-year EPS has remained unchanged at $4.38 in the past 30 days. Shares of Sysco have gained 7.3% in a year. Price and Consensus: SYY McCormick: This Zacks Rank #3 company is a global leader in flavor, known for manufacturing, marketing, and distributing herbs, spices, seasonings, condiments, and flavor solutions. The company's continued focus on innovation and expansion of its distribution footprint has reinforced its leadership across core product categories and key global markets. McCormick is leveraging several growth drivers — including robust brand marketing, cutting-edge product and packaging innovation, effective category management, and proprietary technology. The company's ability to drive revenues through increased volume, rather than relying solely on pricing strategies, underscores the strength and broad consumer appeal of its diverse brand portfolio. McCormick's Comprehensive Continuous Improvement (CCI) program plays a vital role in fueling strategic investments and enhancing operating margins. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for MKC's current financial-year EPS has moved down by a couple of cents to $3.02 in the past 30 days. Shares of McCormick have gained 8% in the past year. Price and Consensus: MKC Celsius Holdings: This Zacks Rank #3 company has rapidly become one of the fastest-growing names in the beverage industry by positioning itself as a clean, health-conscious alternative to traditional energy drinks. Celsius Holdings' zero-sugar, clean-label offerings have gained strong traction among Gen Z and millennial consumers who value wellness, performance, and transparency. Product innovation continues to be a core growth engine for Celsius Holdings, enabling the brand to stay ahead of evolving consumer preferences. The company further strengthened its market position with the strategic acquisition of Alani Nu, completed on April 1, 2025. CELH has also made significant strides in expanding its retail distribution footprint, securing increased shelf space across major national and regional retailers. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Celsius Holdings' current financial-year EPS has moved down by almost 9% to 81 cents in the last 30 days. Shares of CELH have declined 18.9% in the past year. Price and Consensus: CELH Only $1 to See All Zacks' Buys and Sells We're not kidding. Several years ago, we shocked our members by offering them 30-day access to all our picks for the total sum of only $1. No obligation to spend another cent. Thousands have taken advantage of this opportunity. Thousands did not - they thought there must be a catch. Yes, we do have a reason. We want you to get acquainted with our portfolio services like Surprise Trader, Stocks Under $10, Technology Innovators, and more, that closed 256 positions with double- and triple-digit gains in 2024 alone. See Stocks Now >> Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Mondelez International, Inc. (MDLZ): Free Stock Analysis Report McCormick & Company, Incorporated (MKC): Free Stock Analysis Report Sysco Corporation (SYY): Free Stock Analysis Report Celsius Holdings Inc. (CELH): Free Stock Analysis Report
Irish Times
27-06-2025
- Business
- Irish Times
Chambers to focus on costs over design for big projects and how Trump could hit the economy
The Government will prioritise 'cost and efficiency over design standards and aesthetics,' when it comes to future infrastructure spending after the cost overruns and delays of the €2.24 billion National Children's Hospital, according to Jack Chambers, the Minister for Public Expenditure. Mark Paul spoke to the Minister in London. Sales of Irish-made green transport fuel tumbled last year, despite sharp rises in consumption spurred by a Government scheme, figures show. Barry O'Halloran reports. US confectionery giant Hershey has bought the Irish founder of Fulfil Nutrition out of their joint venture selling the protein bars in North America. As Dominic Coyle reports, when updating investors recently on its quarterly figures, Hershey said that it had taken the opportunity to acquire the Fulfil brand in North America where it has operated a joint venture with Barry Connolly since 2020. Golf is directly worth about €717 million to Ireland's economy each year following significant growth fuelled by increased participation , strong club membership, and a recovery in golf tourism following the Covid-19 pandemic, according to new research. Colin Gleeson reports. READ MORE When it comes to working and having children, it's more difficult for women to climb to the top of their profession. From the gender pay and promotions gap, the childcare and domestic juggle and the women's health gap, many structural and societal barriers are put in the way. We all know some parents who've both made it professionally and seem to have it all figured out. But have they really or are they stressed out of their minds? Margaret E Ward explores the issue. Mortgage approvals reached record levels in the past 12 months, rising to €14.1 billion driven by a 17.8 per cent year-on-year increase in mortgage values. Hugh Dooley has the story. As the world reels from US president Donald Trump's bombing of Iran and whipsawing trade policies, Eoin Burke-Kennedy looks at the risks it may pose to the Irish economy. Eoin also explores in his column what Trump is trying to achieve with his moves that are driving down the value of the dollar , and whether his plan can work. Datalex, the retail software provider for airlines, has said it is continuing to weigh fresh funding options as it comes within days of relying on another backstop loan facility from businessman Dermot Desmond. Joe Brennan reports. Joe also reports that Krake, the crypto exchange , has secured authorisation from the Central Bank of Ireland under new EU regulations, which the company said would allow it to expand more quickly across the Europe. William Fitzgerald left a career in Google to set up a firm aimed at helping workers secure their rights in Caliornia, and is now looking to expand The Workers Agency. He sat down with Ian Curran. The White House has said a decision on nominating the next US Federal Reserve chief is not 'imminent' after a report that Donald Trump could nominate a new chair as soon as this summer knocked the dollar. As we start to count down to the budget , what next for child benefit? Cliff Taylor breaks down what to expect in Smart Money. If you'd like to read more about the issues that affect your finances try signing up to On the Money , the weekly newsletter from our personal finance team, which will be issued every Friday to Irish Times subscribers.
