The chart below shows how DOLE performed 10 days before and after its earnings report, based on data from the past quarters. Typically, DOLE sees a -2.01% change in stock price 10 days leading up to the earnings, and a +0.85% change 10 days following the report. On the earnings day itself, the stock moves by +1.27%. This data can give you a slight idea of what to expect for the next quarter's release.
Positive
Strong Financial Performance: Dole plc delivered a strong financial performance in 2024, exceeding adjusted EBITDA guidance by $12 million, indicating solid growth trends.
Revenue and EBITDA Growth: Group revenue increased by 6.7% to $8.5 billion, with adjusted EBITDA also rising by 6.7% to $392 million, driven by growth in core business areas.
Fresh Fruit EBITDA Growth: The Fresh Fruit segment achieved $31.9 million in adjusted EBITDA for Q4, totaling $214.8 million for the year, reflecting a $5.9 million increase from 2023.
Banana and Plantain Growth: In North America, there was good volume growth in bananas and plantains, supported by increased shipping capacity from recent investments.
Stable EMEA Performance: The Diversified EMEA segment delivered stable performance with adjusted EBITDA of $131.5 million for the year, and revenue growth of 4.4%.
Diversified Americas EBITDA Growth: The Diversified Americas segment saw a $22.3 million increase in adjusted EBITDA for the full year, showcasing strong performance in exports and North American markets.
Debt Reduction Achievement: Dole plc reduced net debt by over $180 million in 2024, ending the year with net debt of $637 million and net leverage of 1.6 times, indicating a strong financial position.
Free Cash Flow Performance: Free cash flow from continuing operations was $180.3 million for the full year, benefiting from strong adjusted EBITDA performance and good working capital management.
Dividend Declaration: Dole plc declared a dividend of $0.08 for Q4, demonstrating a commitment to returning cash to shareholders.
Negative
Increased Shipping Costs: Higher shipping costs into the U.S. due to planned dry dockings of two vessels and logistical issues at ports in Latin America and the U.S.
Storm Impact on Operations: Tropical Storm Sara impacted Honduran operations, expected to have a notable short-term financial impact in early 2025.
Margin Growth Challenges: Diversified Fresh Produce EMEA faced headwinds from supply challenges, weather events, and entity-specific issues that mitigated growth at the margin level.
EBITDA Decline Amid Revenue Growth: Fourth quarter adjusted EBITDA decreased 2.9%, indicating potential operational challenges despite overall revenue growth.
Net Income Decline: Net income decreased by $12.3 million compared to the prior year, primarily due to a non-cash write-down of the Fresh Vegetables division and higher tax expenses.
Vegetable Division Write-Down: The Fresh Vegetables division recorded a significant non-cash write-down of $78.2 million, affecting overall financial performance.
Geopolitical and Trade Challenges: The company anticipates headwinds in 2025 from geopolitical uncertainties, foreign exchange rates, and potential changes to international trade structures.
Dole plc (DOLE) Q4 2024 Earnings Call Transcript
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