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Stoneridge Reports Second Quarter 2024 Results

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Q2 Operating Performance Significantly Outperforms Previously Provided Expectations Driven by Strong Margin Expansion

2024 Second Quarter Results

Sales of $237.1 millionGross profit of $53.7 million (22.7% of sales)Operating income of $3.4 million Adjusted operating income of $5.4 million (2.3% of sales)Adjusted EBITDA of $16.1 million (6.8% of sales)Earnings per share (“EPS”) of $0.10Adjusted EPS of $0.17

 2024 Full-Year Guidance Update

Reducing full-year 2024 revenue midpoint guidance by $45 million to reflect updated FX rates (~$12 million impact), updated OEM production volumes (~$18 million impact) and potential volatility in non-OEM and customer demand-based products (~$15 million impact)Revenue guidance of $940 million$970 million (midpoint of $955 million)Increasing gross margin midpoint guidance by 50 basis points to reflect continued material cost improvement and operational excellenceGross margin guidance of 22.75% – 23.0%Reducing adjusted operating margin and EBITDA margin expectations to reflect lower contribution from reduced revenue expectations, offset by improved gross margin performance and continued operating cost controlAdjusted operating margin guidance of ~2.75%Adjusted EBITDA guidance of $58 million$64 million (adjusted EBITDA margin of 6.2% – 6.6%)Adjusted EPS guidance of $0.18$0.28 (midpoint of $0.23)

NOVI, Mich., July 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Stoneridge, Inc. (NYSE: SRI) today announced financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2024, with sales of $237.1 million and earnings per share of $0.10. Adjusted EPS was $0.17.

For the second quarter of 2024, Stoneridge reported gross profit of $53.7 million (22.7% of sales), an increase of 250 basis points relative to the first quarter of 2024. Operating income of $3.4 million resulted in adjusted operating income of $5.4 million (2.3% of sales), an increase of 210 basis points relative to the first quarter of 2024.  Adjusted EBITDA was $16.1 million (6.8% of sales), an increase of 410 basis points relative to the first quarter of 2024.  Second quarter results were favorably impacted by non-operating foreign currency of approximately $2.3 million.

The exhibits attached hereto provide reconciliation detail on normalizing adjustments of non-GAAP financial measures used in this press release. 

Jim Zizelman, president and chief executive officer, commented, “Our second quarter performance highlights our continued focus on improving the fundamentals of our business leading to significantly improved margins and significant outperformance relative to our prior expectations. This was primarily driven by continued material cost reductions, improved operational excellence, including reduced quality-related costs, and operating cost control as we continue to execute on the key initiatives we set at the beginning of the year. Our efforts to reduce material costs and control operating costs contributed to a 250 basis point improvement in gross margin and a 210 basis point improvement in adjusted operating margin over the first quarter. Including the benefit of non-operating FX income, adjusted EBITDA margin improved by 410 basis points over the first quarter to 6.8% of sales. We continue to improve the financial performance of the business while maintaining our robust approach to technology innovation and growth.”

Zizelman continued, “While we continue to drive operational performance improvement, we remain focused on flawless execution of the program launches that will drive strong growth going-forward. We are excited to announce that during the second quarter we began shipping our first MirrorEye OEM systems to Volvo for the launch of their FH Aero model in Europe. Similarly, our MirrorEye program with Peterbilt launched on Models 579 and 567 in North America in July.  Both customers are focusing significant marketing efforts on MirrorEye as a differentiating product in the market. Initial customer feedback has been excellent. For example, Volvo recently announced one of their largest deals ever, in which they have received an order for 1,500 vehicles all of which will be equipped with MirrorEye to be delivered throughout 2024 and 2025. While we have experienced some volatility as new truck production and our programs ramp up, we expect volumes to continue to accelerate for the remainder of the year bringing take rates at least inline with our original expectations. We continue to expect MirrorEye to gain momentum in the second half of this year, as our first OEM program in Europe maintains its strong take rates and the two recently launched programs continue to ramp up in production.”

Zizelman concluded, “Our robust backlog continues to provide a strong foundation for our strategy focused on technologies and capabilities that will drive continued long-term growth. Last month, Volvo Bus announced they have selected Stoneridge to provide connected services and digital solutions using our artificial intelligence-based fuel advice system in a pilot program this year. This partnership is aligned with our ongoing focus on data services, software and AI to drive advanced system capabilities and expansion of our existing technology platforms and products to drive long-term profitable growth.”

Second Quarter in Review

Electronics sales of $153.5 million decreased by 6.4% relative to adjusted sales of the second quarter of 2023. This decrease was primarily driven by lower sales in both the European and North American commercial vehicle end markets and the impact of retroactive pricing recognized in the second quarter of 2023 of approximately $3.3 million. This is partially offset by higher sales in the European off-highway vehicle end market. Second quarter adjusted operating margin of 7.6% improved by 230 basis points relative to the adjusted operating margin of the second quarter of 2023, primarily due to lower direct material costs as a percentage of sales, as well as lower D&D and SG&A costs. 

Control Devices sales of $80.9 million decreased by 13.1% relative to sales of the second quarter of 2023. This decrease was primarily due to lower sales in the North American passenger vehicle end market due to lower customer volumes and the expected wind-down of end-of-life programs as well as lower China automotive sales. Second quarter operating margin of 4.6% decreased by 130 basis points relative to the adjusted operating margin of the second quarter of 2023, primarily due to lower contribution from lower sales, partially offset by lower direct material costs as a percentage of sales and lower D&D costs.

Stoneridge Brazil sales of $11.8 million decreased by $3.1 million relative to sales in the second quarter of 2023. This decrease was primarily due to lower sales in local OEM products, tracking devices and monitoring service fees. Second quarter operating performance of approximately break-even decreased by approximately $0.9 million relative to the second quarter of 2023, primarily due to lower contribution from lower sales volumes partially offset by lower direct material costs.

Relative to the first quarter of 2024, Electronics adjusted sales of $153.5 million, decreased by $2.6 million, or 1.7%. This slight decrease was driven primarily by the unfavorable impact of foreign currency of approximately $2.2 million. Second quarter adjusted operating margin increased by 310 basis points relative to the first quarter of 2024, primarily due to material cost improvements, lower quality-related costs and lower engineering costs.

Relative to the first quarter of 2024, Control Devices sales increased by 3.7%. This increase was primarily due to higher sales in the North American passenger vehicle end market as well as higher commercial vehicle sales in China. Second quarter adjusted operating margin increased by 180 basis points relative to the first quarter of 2024, primarily due to benefits recognized from completed negotiations related to price and volume, improved operational execution and lower SG&A and D&D costs as a result of operating cost control efforts.

Relative to the first quarter of 2024, Stoneridge Brazil sales decreased by $0.4 million. This was primarily the result of the unfavorable foreign currency impact of approximately $0.6 million. Second quarter operating performance decreased by $0.2 million relative to the first quarter of 2024, primarily due to unfavorable foreign currency impact of approximately $0.2 million.

Cash and Debt Balances

As of June 30, 2024, Stoneridge had compliance net debt of $161.4 million resulting in a net debt to trailing twelve-month EBITDA compliance leverage ratio of 2.89x, an improvement of 0.24x compared to December 31, 2023.

The Company continues to focus on both operating performance and working capital improvement to drive cash performance, particularly related to inventory reduction. During the first half of the year, inventory balances declined by $9.0 million. The Company expects to continue to reduce inventory balances throughout the year. The Company expects a net debt to EBITDA ratio for compliance purposes of approximately 2.5x by the end of 2024.

2024 Outlook

The Company is updating its previously provided full-year 2024 guidance ranges including sales guidance of $940 million to $970 million, gross margin guidance of 22.75% to 23.0%, adjusted operating margin guidance of approximately 2.75%, adjusted earnings per share guidance of $0.18 to $0.28 and adjusted EBITDA guidance of $58 million to $64 million, or 6.2% to 6.6% of sales.

Matt Horvath, chief financial officer, commented, “We are updating our full-year 2024 revenue guidance to reflect updated foreign currency rates, updated OEM production volumes and current expectations for non-OEM and customer demand-based products. This results in a midpoint of $955 million for the year. Due primarily to our year-to-date performance, expectation of continued reduction in material costs and a continued focus on operational excellence, we are increasing our full-year gross margin expectations by 50 basis points. We are expecting improved gross margin and operating cost control to significantly offset the decremental impact of reduced revenue. As a result, we are reducing our adjusted EBITDA margin midpoint guidance by 30 basis points, or $61 million of adjusted EBITDA. This results in a 130 basis point margin improvement and 27% growth in adjusted EBITDA over 2023. Finally, we are reducing our full-year adjusted EPS guidance to a midpoint of $0.23 to reflect the lower contribution from reduced sales partially offset by improved operating performance.”

Horvath, concluded, “By continuing to focus on improving the fundamentals of our business, we drove significant margin expansion across our business in the second quarter. Additionally, we continue to focus on inventory reduction to improve our cash position and reduce our leverage profile. We expect to continue those efforts in the second half of the year to help drive financial performance. Stoneridge remains well positioned to outpace our underlying end market growth and drive significant earnings expansion going forward.”

Conference Call on the Web
A live Internet broadcast of Stoneridge’s conference call regarding 2024 second quarter results can be accessed at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time on Thursday, August 1, 2024, at www.stoneridge.com, which will also offer a webcast replay.

About Stoneridge, Inc.
Stoneridge, Inc., headquartered in Novi, Michigan, is a global designer and manufacturer of highly engineered electrical and electronic systems, components and modules for the automotive, commercial, off-highway and agricultural vehicle markets. Additional information about Stoneridge can be found at www.stoneridge.com.

Forward-Looking Statements
Statements in this press release contain “forward-looking statements” under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements appear in a number of places in this report and may include statements regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of the Company, with respect to, among other things, our (i) future product and facility expansion, (ii) acquisition strategy, (iii) investments and new product development, (iv) growth opportunities related to awarded business, and (v) operational expectations. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the words “will,” “may,” “should,” “designed to,” “believes,” “plans,” “projects,” “intends,” “expects,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” “continue,” and similar words and expressions. The forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by the statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include, among other factors:

the ability of our suppliers to supply us with parts and components at competitive prices on a timely basis, including the impact of potential tariffs and trade considerations on their operations and output;fluctuations in the cost and availability of key materials and components (including semiconductors, printed circuit boards, resin, aluminum, steel and copper) and our ability to offset cost increases through negotiated price increases with our customers or other cost reduction actions, as necessary;global economic trends, competition and geopolitical risks, including impacts from ongoing or potential global conflicts and any related sanctions and other measures, or an escalation of sanctions, tariffs or other trade tensions between the U.S. and other countries;our ability to achieve cost reductions that offset or exceed customer-mandated selling price reductions;the reduced purchases, loss or bankruptcy of a major customer or supplier;the costs and timing of business realignment, facility closures or similar actions;a significant change in automotive, commercial, off-highway or agricultural vehicle production;competitive market conditions and resulting effects on sales and pricing;foreign currency fluctuations and our ability to manage those impacts;customer acceptance of new products;our ability to successfully launch/produce products for awarded business;adverse changes in laws, government regulations or market conditions affecting our products, our suppliers, or our customers’ products;our ability to protect our intellectual property and successfully defend against assertions made against us;liabilities arising from warranty claims, product recall or field actions, product liability and legal proceedings to which we are or may become a party, or the impact of product recall or field actions on our customers;labor disruptions at our facilities, or at any of our significant customers or suppliers;business disruptions due to natural disasters or other disasters outside of our control;the amount of our indebtedness and the restrictive covenants contained in the agreements governing our indebtedness, including our revolving Credit Facility;capital availability or costs, including changes in interest rates;the failure to achieve the successful integration of any acquired company or business;risks related to a failure of our information technology systems and networks, and risks associated with current and emerging technology threats and damage from computer viruses, unauthorized access, cyber-attack and other similar disruptions; andthe items described in Part I, Item IA (“Risk Factors”) in our Form 10-K filed with the SEC.

The forward-looking statements contained herein represent our estimates only as of the date of this release and should not be relied upon as representing our estimates as of any subsequent date. While we may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, we specifically disclaim any obligation to do so, whether to reflect actual results, changes in assumptions, changes in other factors affecting such forward-looking statements or otherwise.

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information
This press release contains information about the Company’s financial results that is not presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”). Such non-GAAP financial measures are reconciled to their closest GAAP financial measures at the end of this press release. The provision of these non-GAAP financial measures for 2024 and 2023 is not intended to indicate that Stoneridge is explicitly or implicitly providing projections on those non-GAAP financial measures, and actual results for such measures are likely to vary from those presented. The reconciliations include all information reasonably available to the Company at the date of this press release and the adjustments that management can reasonably predict.

Management believes the non-GAAP financial measures used in this press release are useful to both management and investors in their analysis of the Company’s financial position and results of operations. In particular, management believes that adjusted sales, adjusted operating income and margin, adjusted income (loss) before tax, adjusted income tax expense (benefit), adjusted net income, adjusted EPS, EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net debt, adjusted debt and adjusted cash are useful measures in assessing the Company’s financial performance by excluding certain items that are not indicative of the Company’s core operating performance or that may obscure trends useful in evaluating the Company’s continuing operating activities. Management also believes that these measures are useful to both management and investors in their analysis of the Company’s results of operations and provide improved comparability between fiscal periods.

Adjusted sales, adjusted operating income and margin, adjusted income (loss) before tax, adjusted income tax expense (benefit), adjusted net income, adjusted EPS, EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net debt, adjusted debt and adjusted cash should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for sales, operating income, income (loss) before tax, income tax expense (benefit), net income, EPS, debt, cash and cash equivalents, cash provided by operating activities or other income statement or cash flow statement data prepared in accordance with GAAP.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(in thousands)

June 30,
2024

December 31,
2023

(Unaudited)

ASSETS

Current assets:

Cash and cash equivalents

$            42,112

$            40,841

Accounts receivable, less reserves of $620 and $1,058, respectively

168,215

166,545

Inventories, net

178,749

187,758

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

32,882

34,246

Total current assets

421,958

429,390

Long-term assets:

Property, plant and equipment, net

103,061

110,126

Intangible assets, net

43,586

47,314

Goodwill

34,244

35,295

Operating lease right-of-use asset

8,722

10,795

Investments and other long-term assets, net

55,080

46,980

Total long-term assets

244,693

250,510

Total assets

$         666,651

$         679,900

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Current liabilities:

Current portion of debt

$              2,064

$              2,113

Accounts payable

108,085

111,925

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

76,098

64,203

Total current liabilities

186,247

178,241

Long-term liabilities:

Revolving credit facility

187,417

189,346

Deferred income taxes

6,276

7,224

Operating lease long-term liability

5,814

7,684

Other long-term liabilities

10,446

9,688

Total long-term liabilities

209,953

213,942

Shareholders’ equity:

Preferred Shares, without par value, 5,000 shares authorized, none issued

Common Shares, without par value, 60,000 shares authorized, 28,966 and

28,966 shares issued and 27,679 and 27,549 
shares outstanding at June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively,

with no stated value

Additional paid-in capital

224,599

227,340

Common Shares held in treasury, 1,287 and 1,417 shares at June 30, 2024

and December 31, 2023, respectively, at cost

(39,066)

(43,344)

Retained earnings

193,169

196,509

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

(108,251)

(92,788)

Total shareholders’ equity

270,451

287,717

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

$         666,651

$         679,900

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

Three months ended
June 30,

Six months ended
June 30,

(in thousands, except per share data)

2024

2023

2024

2023

Net sales

$         237,059

$         266,814

$         476,216

$         508,139

Costs and expenses:

Cost of goods sold

183,319

206,326

374,119

404,849

Selling, general and administrative

31,876

33,491

62,299

63,354

Design and development

18,457

22,666

36,060

39,634

Operating income

3,407

4,331

3,738

302

Interest expense, net

3,801

3,120

7,435

5,866

Equity in loss of investee

52

329

329

500

Other (income) expense, net

(2,296)

2,387

(260)

3,535

Income (loss) before income taxes

1,850

(1,505)

(3,766)

(9,599)

(Benefit) provision for income taxes

(936)

1,487

(426)

779

Net income (loss)

$              2,786

$            (2,992)

$            (3,340)

$          (10,378)

Income (loss) per share:

Basic

$                0.10

$              (0.11)

$              (0.12)

$              (0.38)

Diluted

$                0.10

$              (0.11)

$              (0.12)

$              (0.38)

Weighted-average shares outstanding:

Basic

27,611

27,452

27,570

27,400

Diluted

27,853

27,452

27,570

27,400

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

Six months ended June 30, (in thousands)

2024

2023

OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

Net loss

$              (3,340)

$            (10,378)

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by (used for) operating activities:

Depreciation

13,054

13,161

Amortization, including accretion and write-off of deferred financing costs

4,440

4,004

Deferred income taxes

(7,004)

(3,782)

Loss of equity method investee

329

500

Loss (gain) on sale of fixed assets

258

(854)

Share-based compensation expense

2,207

1,271

Excess tax deficiency related to share-based compensation expense

238

66

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

Accounts receivable, net

(6,094)

(28,100)

Inventories, net

3,438

(23,142)

Prepaid expenses and other assets

(1,038)

3,313

Accounts payable

(849)

27,069

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

12,123

12,184

Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities

17,762

(4,688)

INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

Capital expenditures, including intangibles

(12,920)

(18,025)

Proceeds from sale of fixed assets

222

1,729

Investment in venture capital fund, net

(260)

Net cash used for investing activities

(12,958)

(16,296)

FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

Revolving credit facility borrowings

57,000

42,000

Revolving credit facility payments

(58,000)

(38,068)

Proceeds from issuance of debt

17,677

16,402

Repayments of debt

(17,690)

(18,086)

Repurchase of Common Shares to satisfy employee tax withholding

(666)

(1,325)

Net cash (used for) provided by financing activities

(1,679)

923

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

(1,854)

(32)

Net change in cash and cash equivalents

1,271

(20,093)

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

40,841

54,798

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

$             42,112

$             34,705

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:

Cash paid for interest, net

$               8,003

$               5,622

Cash paid for income taxes, net

$               4,372

$               5,927

 

Regulation G Non-GAAP Financial Measure Reconciliations

Exhibit 1 – Reconciliation of Adjusted EPS

Reconciliation of Q2 2024 Adjusted EPS

(USD in millions, except EPS)

Q2 2024

Q2 2024 EPS

Net Income

$               2.8

$             0.10

Add: After-Tax Business Realignment Costs

1.9

0.07

Adjusted Net Income

$               4.7

$             0.17

 

Exhibit 2 – Reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA

(USD in millions)

Q1 2023

Q2 2023

Q3 2023

Q4 2023

Q1 2024

Q2 2024

Income (Loss) Before Tax

$     (8.1)

$     (1.5)

$       4.4

$       3.2

$      (5.6)

$      1.9

Interest expense, net

2.7

3.1

3.3

3.8

3.6

3.8

Depreciation and amortization

8.3

8.4

8.5

8.4

8.6

8.5

EBITDA

$       3.0

$     10.0

$     16.2

$     15.5

$       6.6

$    14.2

Add: Pre-Tax Business Realignment Costs

1.3

1.9

1.2

0.1

1.9

Less: Pre-Tax Gain on Disposal of Fixed Assets

(0.8)

Add: Pre-Tax Environmental Remediation Costs

0.1

Add: Pre-Tax Brazilian Indirect Tax Credits, Net

(0.5)

Adjusted EBITDA

$       3.6

$     11.9

$     17.0

$     15.6

$       6.6

$    16.1

 

Exhibit 3 – Reconciliation of Adjusted Operating Income

(USD in millions)

Q1 2024

Q2 2024

Operating Income

$           0.3

$           3.4

Add: Pre-Tax Business Realignment Costs

1.9

Adjusted Operating Income

$           0.3

$           5.4

 

Exhibit 4 – Segment Adjusted Operating Income

 

Reconciliation of Control Devices Adjusted Operating Income

(USD in millions)

Q2 2023

Q1 2024

Q2 2024

Control Devices Operating Income

$       5.1

$       2.2

$       3.7

Add: Pre-Tax Business Realignment Costs

0.4

Control Devices Adjusted Operating Income

$       5.5

$       2.2

$       3.7

Reconciliation of Electronics Adjusted Operating Income

(USD in millions)

Q2 2023

Q1 2024

Q2 2024

Electronics Operating Income

$       7.4

$       7.1

$       9.8

Add: Pre-Tax Business Realignment Costs

1.3

1.9

Electronics Adjusted Operating Income

$       8.8

$       7.1

$     11.7

 

Exhibit 5 – Reconciliation of Electronics Adjusted Sales

(USD in millions)

Q2 2023

Q1 2024

Q2 2024

Electronics Sales

$   168.3

$   156.1

$   153.5

Less: Sales from Spot Purchases Recoveries

(4.4)

Electronics Adjusted Sales

$   163.9

$   156.1

$   153.5

 

Exhibit 6 – Reconciliation of Adjusted Tax Rate

Reconciliation of Q2 2024 Adjusted Tax Rate

(USD in millions)

Q2 2024

Tax Rate

Income Before Tax

$             1.9

Add: Pre-Tax Business Realignment Costs

1.9

Adjusted Income Before Tax

$             3.8

Income Tax Benefit

(0.9)

(50.6) %

Add: Tax Impact from Pre-Tax Adjustments

Adjusted Income Tax Benefit on Adjusted Income Before Tax

$            (0.9)

(24.3) %

 

Exhibit 7 – Reconciliation of Compliance Leverage Ratio

Reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA for Compliance Calculation

(USD in millions)

Q1 2023

Q2 2023

Q3 2023

Q4 2023

Q1 2024

Q2 2024

Income (Loss) Before Tax

$     (8.1)

$     (1.5)

$       4.4

3.2

(5.6)

1.9

Interest Expense, net

2.7

3.1

3.3

3.8

3.6

3.8

Depreciation and Amortization

8.3

8.4

8.5

8.4

8.6

8.5

EBITDA

$       3.0

$     10.0

$     16.2

$     15.5

$       6.6

$     14.2

Compliance adjustments:

Add: Non-Cash Impairment Charges and Write-offs or Write Downs

0.2

Add: Adjustments from Foreign Currency Impact

1.4

3.1

0.4

(0.7)

2.2

(2.4)

Add: Extraordinary, Non-recurring or Unusual Items

0.2

0.5

Add: Cash Restructuring Charges

1.4

0.5

0.1

0.3

1.6

0.5

Add: Charges for Transactions, Amendments, and Refinances

0.3

Add: Adjustment to Autotech Fund II Investment

0.2

0.3

0.1

(0.1)

0.3

0.1

Adjusted EBITDA (Compliance)

$       6.1

$     13.9

$     17.4

$     15.3

$     10.9

$     12.3

Adjusted TTM EBITDA (Compliance)

$     52.7

$     57.5

$     55.9

 

Reconciliation of Adjusted Cash for Compliance Calculation

(USD in millions)

Q4 2023

Q1 2024

Q2 2024

Total Cash and Cash Equivalents

$       40.8

$       48.4

$      42.1

Less: 35% of Cash in Foreign Locations

(12.8)

(14.8)

(12.5)

Total Adjusted Cash (Compliance)

$       28.0

$       33.6

$      29.6

Reconciliation of Adjusted Debt for Compliance Calculation

(USD in millions)

Q4 2023

Q1 2024

Q2 2024

Total Debt

$     191.5

$     196.5

$     189.5

Outstanding Letters of Credit

1.6

1.6

1.6

Total Adjusted Debt (Compliance)

$     193.0

$     198.1

$     191.1

Adjusted Net Debt (Compliance)

$     165.0

$     164.5

$     161.4

Compliance Leverage Ratio (Net Debt / TTM EBITDA)

3.13x

2.86x

2.89x

 

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SOURCE Stoneridge, Inc.

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The New Standard for One-to-Many On-Set Transmission

In today’s production landscape, the video village is no longer confined to a single monitor. Directors, assistants, clients, and multiple departments require simultaneous, high-fidelity access to the live image across different positions on set.

While existing systems often force a choice between costly, over-engineered solutions and entry-level gear that struggles in demanding environments, Pyro Ultra offers a third approach. As one-to-many transmission becomes increasingly common across productions, it can introduce practical limits on device count and system stability in larger setups. Pyro Ultra’s Broadcast Mode addresses the issue by enabling a single transmitter to connect with an unlimited number of receivers, creating a fluid workflow. Every department, from lighting to hair and makeup, can monitor independently, which helps eliminate bottlenecks and accelerate decision-making.

Cinematic 4K60 Clarity Without Compromise

Image integrity is central to Pyro Ultra. With support for 4K60 transmission, the system delivers the detail and color accuracy required for high-end videography work. It also supports fractional frame rates, including 23.98 and 59.94 fps, commonly used in broadcast and professional pipelines. Its native compatibility enables direct connection to switchers and monitors without external converters, simplifying the signal path and reducing potential points of failure.

20ms Latency for Precise Focus Pulling

For first assistant camera operators and focus pullers, every millisecond counts. Pyro Ultra’s dedicated Focus Mode cuts latency to just 20ms, ensuring the real-time responsiveness needed for razor-sharp adjustments at any distance. The technical edge provides the freedom to navigate tight spaces or complex choreography with absolute confidence.

Powered by TWiFi Technology

At the core of Pyro Ultra is Hollyland’s TWiFi (dual-band wireless) technology. It leverages intelligent frequency management across the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands to enable automatic hopping, ensuring a stable, high-bitrate connection even in congested RF environments. Pyro Ultra’s robust link supports a 1.5 km (4,900 ft) range and is fully DFS-ready, providing professional crews with reliable, globally compliant operation

Engineered for Modern Workflows & Seamless Integration

Pyro Ultra is built for today’s hybrid production workflows. With UVC (USB Video Class) support, it can connect directly to a computer for instant webcam functionality, removing the need for a capture card. Its RTMP support enables direct streaming to web platforms, simplifying remote collaboration. As part of the Pyro ecosystem, Ultra integrates seamlessly with existing Pyro devices. The modular design allows production teams to scale their setups based on project requirements, ensuring consistent performance across different production scenarios.

Pricing and Availability

Launched on April 18, 2026, Hollyland’s Pyro Ultra is now available through local distributors, the official Hollyland online store, and the Hollyland Amazon store.

The 1TX/1RX kit is priced at $1,199, and the 1TX/2RX kit at $1,699. Individual units can also be purchased separately, with transmitters starting at $699 and receivers at $579.

For more information, visit https://www.hollyland.com/product/pyro-ultra

About Hollyland

Hollyland is a leading provider of wireless products, specializing in wireless intercom systems, video transmission systems, monitors, wireless microphones, and live streaming cameras. Since 2013, Hollyland has been serving millions of users around the world in various sectors, including filmmaking, telecasting, video production, live events, exhibitions, theaters, houses of worship, and individual content creators. It has built a sales network covering approximately 150 countries and regions with support from dozens of localized operation offices worldwide. For more information, please visit https://www.hollyland.com/, Hollyland Facebook, and Hollyland Instagram.

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Three Papers Published Consecutively in Nature Energy: JinkoSolar’s Breakthroughs in TOPCon/Perovskite Tandem Technology Receive Authoritative Recognition

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SHANGHAI, April 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — JinkoSolar, the global leading PV and ESS supplier, recently published three research papers in succession within a single month in Nature Energy, one of the premier journals in the field of energy research. This series of papers showcases JinkoSolar’s multiple major breakthroughs in TOPCon and perovskite tandem cell technologies.

26.66%! Setting a New Record for Industrial-Scale TOPCon Cell Conversion Efficiency

JinkoSolar, in collaboration with the research team from the Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, successfully developed a dual-sided electrical synergy optimization strategy. This approach achieved a certified efficiency of up to 26.66% on M10-sized silicon wafers, setting a new efficiency record for industrial-scale TOPCon cells and significantly narrowing the gap between industrial-scale TOPCon cells and the theoretical efficiency of 29.4%.

Additionally, the research reduced carrier transport losses through a high-resistance boron emitter on the front side and an optimized fine-line grid design, while the back side employs an innovative double-layer tunneling silicon oxide/polysilicon structure on the rear side to effectively suppress performance degradation caused by silver paste puncture. Furthermore, by utilizing localized polysilicon thinning technology, the research achieved outstanding performance metrics, including an open-circuit voltage of 744.6 mV, a fill factor of 85.57%, and a bifaciality of 88.3%. This achievement provides a feasible and comprehensive solution for narrowing the efficiency gap between TOPCon cells and the theoretical limit, significantly enhancing the core competitiveness of TOPCon technology in the future photovoltaic market.

Reference link: Dual-side electrical refinement enables efficient industrial tunnel oxide passivating contact silicon solar cells:
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41560-026-01982-2

Certified Efficiency of 32.73%! Paving the Way for Scalable Compatibility of Perovskite/TOPCon Tandem Cells

JinkoSolar, in collaboration with the research team from Soochow University, has successfully developed a full-size bifacial TOPCon crystalline silicon solar cell with a certified photoconversion efficiency of 26.34%. This research abandons the traditional TOPCon cell design featuring a boron-diffused emitter on the front surface. Instead, it innovatively introduces patterned n-type TOPCon finger contacts on the front surface while retaining the full-area p-type TOPCon contact on the back. By localizing the polycrystalline silicon contact area, this structure significantly reduces parasitic absorption and recombination losses on the front surface, achieving a certified efficiency of 26.34% and significantly improving the open-circuit voltage.

Furthermore, to address the issues of poor contact performance and susceptibility to metal paste corrosion in P-type TOPCon, a “polysilicon/silicon dioxide/polysilicon” double-layer composite structure was designed. Combined with optimized rear-side polishing and a specially formulated silver paste, this structure not only achieves extremely low contact resistance and recombination current but, more importantly, the ultra-thin oxide layer in the middle effectively prevents silver crystal spikes from penetrating the silicon substrate, significantly enhancing the device’s reliability and high-temperature resistance. In the future, by improving the precision of laser patterning to further narrow the finger width and introducing localized contacts on the back side to reduce the polycrystalline silicon layer thickness, parasitic absorption can be reduced, and mass production efficiency is expected to approach 27%.

Using a high-efficiency bifacial TOPCon cell with a textured front surface as the bottom cell, the research team fabricated a monolithic perovskite/TOPCon tandem cell, achieving a certified efficiency of 32.73% and a high open-circuit voltage of 1.961 V. These results not only set a new performance record for this class of tandem cells but also demonstrated excellent long-term operational stability (maintaining 80% of the initial efficiency after 2,000 hours), proving the immense potential of this TOPCon technology route in tandem applications. They also provide a scalable and industrially compatible technical pathway for the development of higher-efficiency TOPCon and perovskite/TOPCon tandem photovoltaic modules.

Reference link: Bifacial tunnel oxide passivating contacts for silicon and perovskitesilicon tandem solar cells with improved efficiency: 
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41560-026-02007-8

32.76%! Breaking Through the Efficiency Barrier for Industrial TOPCon Silicon-Based Perovskite Tandem Cells

To address the critical challenge of rapid perovskite crystallization and film quality degradation caused by the high thermal conductivity of industrial thin silicon substrates, JinkoSolar, in collaboration with the National University of Singapore and other research institutions, innovatively proposed a strategy to regulate the major organic cation (FA⁺) using a dual-mode-coupled ligand (MBT), successfully achieving effective control over crystallization kinetics. A perovskite/TOPCon tandem solar cell fabricated using this strategy was certified by the National Photovoltaic Industry Metrology and Testing Center (NPVM) with a conversion efficiency of 32.76%, approaching the current efficiency record for tandem photovoltaic cells. Additionally, the cell maintained 91% of its initial efficiency after 1,700 hours of continuous operation, demonstrating excellent long-term operational reliability.

This research is of significant importance as it achieves high efficiency (certified at 32.76%) in TOPCon silicon-back-contact cells, which hold the greatest potential for market dominance. Not only does it elevate the efficiency of perovskite/TOPCon tandem cells to new heights, but more importantly, it provides critical scientific insights and a practical pathway for integrating high-performance perovskite materials from the laboratory with market-dominant TOPCon silicon technology, marking a solid step toward the mainstream industrialization of perovskite/ crystalline silicon tandem technology toward mainstream industrialization. In the future, this strategy is expected to be combined with solution-based production processes — which offer the potential for large-scale fabrication and low costs — to drive the industrial application of these research findings.

Reference link: Additive-assisted perovskite crystallization on industrial TOPCon silicon for tandem solar cells with improved efficiency: 
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41560-026-02010-z

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JinkoSolar Officially Launches “Light Diamond” Lightweight, High-Strength Module

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SHANGHAI, April 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — JinkoSolar, the global leading PV and ESS supplier, has officially launched a lightweight module solution specifically designed for low-load-bearing roofs—the Jinko “Light Diamond” lightweight, high-strength module, based on its Tiger Neo 3.0 technology platform.

Module weight: 16.2 kg
Module dimensions: 1980 × 1134 × 30 mm
Weight density: 7 kg/m²— 40% weight reduction compared with conventional double-glass modules (12.2 kg/m²);
Maximum power: 560 W;
Maximum module efficiency: 24.94%
Applications: Suitable for older factory buildings, temporary structures, light-gauge steel roofs, power plant coal sheds, and buildings with load restrictions.

Five Key Advantages:

Advantage 1: Ultra-Lightweight with Guaranteed Strength

JinkoSolar’s “Light Diamond” lightweight, high-strength modules weigh only 7 kg per square meter, representing a weight reduction of over 40% compared to conventional double-glass modules. The total module weight for a 1 MW project is only 28.6 tons, a reduction of approximately 20 tons compared to BC double-glass modules. This means that a large number of roofs that previously required reinforcement or were unsuitable for installation can now be directly fitted with solar panels without any structural modifications.

Advantage 2: 24.94% High Efficiency—Lightweight and High-Performance

A common flaw among most lightweight modules on the market is that they prioritize weight reduction at the expense of power generation efficiency. JinkoSolar’s “Light Diamond” lightweight, high-strength modules break this trade-off.

JinkoSolar’s “Light Diamond” lightweight, high-strength modules deliver a maximum power output of 560 watts and an ultra-high efficiency of 24.94%, whereas flexible modules or BC composite modules only reach 450 to 460 watts—a single-module power increase of over 100 watts. This means a higher-capacity solar power plant can be installed on the same roof area. More importantly, the higher power output directly leads to optimized system costs: fewer modules are required, reducing Balance of System (BOS) costs for mounting structures, cables, combiner boxes, and other components; installation time is shortened, lowering labor costs; and overall BOS costs are further reduced by 3% to 5% compared to conventional lightweight solutions.

This is not a lightweight module born of compromise, but a high-efficiency module that takes performance to the next level.

 Advantage 3: Reduced Weight Without Compromising Quality—Backed by a 30-Year Power Warranty

The key concern with lightweight modules is whether their reduced weight compromises reliability. JinkoSolar’s “Light Diamond” lightweight, high-strength modules address this concern with technology and data.

In terms of structural reinforcement, the modules utilize 1.6mm lightweight glass to reduce weight while maintaining light transmittance; the frame features reinforced channel design with increased thickness, enhancing overall mechanical strength; and the encapsulation process uses reinforced adhesive film, significantly improving sealing performance, resistance to humidity and heat, and resistance to micro-cracks.

In terms of load certification, the maximum front-side load capacity is 3,600 Pa—equivalent to withstanding 3.6 meters of snow accumulation—and the module can withstand impacts from 25mm hailstones without damage. The maximum back-side load capacity is 2,400 Pa, equivalent to withstanding Category 12 winds. In the face of extreme weather, it provides a robust safety barrier.

In terms of long-term reliability metrics, the temperature coefficient is -0.26%/°C, resulting in lower power generation losses at high temperatures; the power output warranty spans 30 years, which is 12–15 years longer than that of flexible or composite modules; first-year degradation does not exceed 1%, with annual degradation of 0.35%, both of which outperform industry averages.

Advantage 4: Save Money, Time, and Effort

The lightweight design of JinkoSolar’s “Light Diamond” lightweight, high-strength modules not only reduces physical weight but also systematically optimizes total lifecycle costs.

Compared to conventional module reinforcement solutions, JinkoSolar’s “Light Diamond” lightweight, high-strength modules save approximately 0.5 yuan per watt in reinforcement costs, equivalent to a savings of about 500,000 yuan per MW. The construction period is reduced from over 40 days to 8–10 days—a 75% reduction. There is no need to halt production, thereby avoiding operational losses, and the approval process is simplified, eliminating the need for structural modification approvals.

Taking a 1 MW project as an example, the savings on reinforcement costs amount to approximately 500,000 yuan, the construction period is shortened by more than 30 days, and the avoided production downtime losses—which can reach hundreds of thousands of yuan depending on the company’s scale—significantly boost the project’s internal rate of return (IRR) and markedly shorten the payback period. For retrofit projects involving older factory buildings, the greatest advantage of Jinko’s “Light Diamond” lightweight, high-strength modules is that installation can proceed without halting production; companies can maintain normal operations while the solar power plant is installed on the roof simultaneously, ensuring both objectives are met.

Advantage 5: Strong Demand, a Blue Ocean Market

According to industry statistics, China has over 6 billion square meters of existing commercial and industrial rooftop space, with load-restricted roofs accounting for more than 30% of this total—representing a potential market of nearly 2 billion square meters. Based on an installation density of 100 watts per square meter and a system cost of 1.5 yuan per watt, the theoretical installation capacity exceeds 200 GW, with a market size surpassing 300 billion yuan.

The renovation of old factory buildings, the upgrading of cultural and creative parks, and distributed solar systems on light-gauge steel roofs—these scenarios that were previously unsuitable for installation are now becoming a new blue ocean for PV growth. Whoever can be the first to deliver truly reliable products will be able to capture this market.

Application Scenarios

1) Renovation of Old Industrial Buildings: This is the primary application scenario. Industrial buildings constructed in the last century, as well as power plant coal sheds, carports, and simple rural supermarkets, often have limited roof load-bearing capacity and structurally deteriorated roofs that cannot safely support additional weight. Jinko’s “Light Diamond” lightweight, high-strength modules can be installed without structural reinforcement and do not disrupt production during renovation, making them the preferred solution for the green retrofitting of old industrial buildings.

2) Cultural and Creative Parks and Commercial Complexes: With insufficient roof load-bearing capacity, the need to maintain operations, and aesthetic requirements, Jinko’s “Light Diamond” lightweight, high-strength modules—which are lightweight, efficient, and reliable—are a perfect fit for these scenarios.

3) Light-Gauge Steel Roofs and Color-Coated Steel Sheet Roofs: Light-gauge steel roofs, commonly used in modern industrial facilities, inherently lack sufficient load-bearing capacity. Jinko’s “Light Diamond” lightweight, high-strength modules, weighing just 7 kg per square meter, enable the installation of solar panels on these roofs.

4) Special buildings with load restrictions: Such as space frame structures, arched roofs, and agricultural greenhouses, Jinko’s “Light Diamond” lightweight, high-strength modules can easily adapt to these structures.

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