Crane Co Earnings: Core growth of 8% with margin expansion of 320bps demonstrates operational excellence
CR Financial Analysis
Analysis Date: 1/30/2025
Business Model
Crane Company generates revenue through two main segments: Aerospace & Electronics and Process Flow Technologies
Revenue Sources
- Aerospace & Electronics (44% of Q4 2024 revenue): OE Sales (63%) and Aftermarket Sales (37%)
- Process Flow Technologies (56% of Q4 2024 revenue)
Revenue Distribution by Channel
- OE Sales: 63% of Aerospace & Electronics revenue
- Aftermarket Sales: 37% of Aerospace & Electronics revenue
Income Statement Analysis
- Strong revenue growth of 12.3% driven by 8% core growth and 4% from acquisitions
- Operating profit increased 38.1% with margin expansion of 290 basis points to 15.8%
- Net income from continuing operations grew 61.2% reflecting strong operational execution
Balance Sheet Analysis
- Strong balance sheet with over $300M in cash and minimal leverage
- Total assets grew 11.4% while liabilities declined slightly
- Equity increased 20.6% reflecting strong earnings retention
Cash Flow Analysis
- Strong operating cash flow growth of 42.4% year-over-year
- Free cash flow increased 44.4% to $188.2M
- High cash flow conversion demonstrating quality of earnings
Capital Allocation
Company maintains strong balance sheet with $307M cash and $800M undrawn revolver. Management expects $1B+ immediate M&A capacity expanding to $4B through 2028. Declared 12% dividend increase to $0.92 annually.
Management Commentary
Exceptional year with both segments executing at high level delivering 8% core growth and 28% adjusted EPS growth
Strong momentum continuing into 2025 with high-single digit growth expected in Aerospace & Electronics
Successful portfolio reshaping through strategic acquisitions and Engineered Materials divestiture
Overall Sentiment: Highly confident in continued strong execution and growth opportunities
Recommendation
Rating: Buy
Reason for Rating: Strong operational execution, margin expansion trajectory, and significant M&A optionality support continued outperformance
Disclaimer: This analysis is based on company filings and public information. It is for informational purposes only and not financial advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Generated on: 1/30/2025, 8:38:45 AM