Release Date: March 17, 2025

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.

Positive Points

• Eastman Kodak Co (NYSE:KODK) reported a gross profit increase to 19% for the fourth quarter of 2024, up from 17% in the same quarter of 2023, indicating improved profitability.
• The company successfully maintained its gross profit percentage at 19% for the full year 2024 despite challenges such as inflation and increased transportation costs.
• Eastman Kodak Co (NYSE:KODK) is investing in growth initiatives, including expanding its Advanced Materials and Chemicals (AMC) business, which is showing continued profit and revenue growth.
• The company has made significant investments in its film plant, increasing capacity and efficiency, which is expected to support future growth.
• Eastman Kodak Co (NYSE:KODK) achieved a favorable outcome in the tariff petition process with the US International Trade Commission, establishing a level playing field for its commercial print division in the US market.

Negative Points

• Eastman Kodak Co (NYSE:KODK) experienced a revenue decline of 3% in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, reflecting ongoing challenges in its core business.
• The company's full-year revenue for 2024 decreased by 7% compared to 2023, partly due to strategic decisions to shed non-core businesses.
• Operational EBITDA for 2024 declined by 42% compared to 2023, impacted by lower volumes, higher aluminum costs, and inventory reserve adjustments.
• Cash provided by operating activities decreased by $13 million in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to the prior year, reflecting challenges in cash flow management.
• Eastman Kodak Co (NYSE:KODK) ended 2024 with a cash balance of $201 million, a decrease of $54 million from the previous year, driven by capital expenditures and lower profitability from operations.

Q & A Highlights

• Warning! GuruFocus has detected 2 Warning Signs with KODK.

Q: Can you provide an update on Kodak's US pension plan and its impact on the company's financials? A: Jim Continenza, Executive Chairman and CEO, explained that the board has approved the termination of the Kodak Retirement Income Plan (CRIP) effective March 30, 2025. The process is underway to settle pension obligations, and any reverted assets are expected to be used to reduce long-term debt, thereby decreasing the annual cost of servicing that debt.

Q: How did Kodak's revenue and profitability perform in the fourth quarter of 2024? A: David Bullwinkle, CFO, reported that Kodak's revenue for Q4 2024 was $266 million, a decrease of 3% compared to the prior year. However, gross profit improved by 9% to 19%, reflecting the company's focus on smart revenue and operational efficiencies.

Q: What are the key growth initiatives for Kodak's Advanced Materials and Chemicals (AMC) business? A: Jim Continenza highlighted that AMC is a critical investment for Kodak's future. The company has increased capacity through the sensitizing line and invested in growth initiatives like the CGMPharma facility, which will start production this year. Demand for various types of film continues to grow, and Kodak is expanding its capabilities and capacity in this area.

Q: What was the outcome of the tariff petition process with the US International Trade Commission? A: Jim Continenza stated that Kodak concluded the tariff petition process, resulting in a level playing field for the plates business in the United States. This outcome is a significant win for US manufacturing and helps protect domestic jobs against unfair foreign competition.

Q: How is Kodak addressing the decline in its print business? A: Jim Continenza acknowledged the decline in the print business but noted that it has been partially offset by growth in AMC revenues. The company is focusing on innovation and operational efficiencies to maintain profitability despite challenges like inflation and supply chain issues.

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.