Technology

Waters Corporation (NYSE: WAT) Reports Third Quarter 2024 Financial Results

Published

1 year ago

November 1, 2024

Highlights

Sales of $740 million exceeded guidance, grew 4% as reported and 4% in constant currencyInstruments returned to growth; recurring revenue grew high single-digits in constant currencyAll reported regions returned to growth in the quarter; sales grew across all end markets, led by Pharma & IndustrialGAAP EPS of $2.71 and non-GAAP EPS of $2.93 significantly exceeded guidance, led by strong operational performance and better-than-expected market conditionsRaised full-year sales and EPS guidance, with 5% to 7% constant currency growth expected in the fourth quarter

Third Quarter 2024

MILFORD, Mass., Nov. 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Waters Corporation (NYSE: WAT) today announced its financial results for the third quarter of 2024.

Sales for the third quarter of 2024 were $740 million, an increase of 4% as reported, compared to sales of $712 million for the third quarter of 2023. Currency translation had minimal impact on sales.

On a GAAP basis, diluted earnings per share (EPS) for the third quarter of 2024 was $2.71, compared to $2.27 for the third quarter of 2023. On a non-GAAP basis, EPS was $2.93, compared to $2.84 for the third quarter of 2023. This includes a headwind of approximately 2% due to unfavorable foreign exchange.

“We delivered exceptional third quarter results, fueled by new product adoption and improved customer spending trends,” said Dr. Udit Batra, President & CEO, Waters Corporation. “Instruments returned to growth sooner than expected, as liquid chromatography sales to pharma and industrial customers turned positive.”

Dr. Batra continued, “Looking ahead, our strong commercial execution, competitive product portfolio, and excellent operational performance give us confidence in the long-term outlook for Waters.”

Other Highlights

During the third quarter of 2024, sales into the pharmaceutical market increased 2% as reported and 3% in constant currency. Sales into the industrial market increased 9% as reported and 7% in constant currency. Sales into the academic and government market increased 2% as reported and were flat in constant currency.

During the quarter, instrument system sales increased 1% as reported and in constant currency. Recurring revenues, which represent the combination of service and precision chemistries, increased 6% as reported and 7% in constant currency.

Geographically, sales in Asia during the quarter increased 5% as reported and 6% in constant currency. Sales in the Americas increased 1% as reported and in constant currency. Sales in Europe increased 6% as reported and 4% in constant currency.

Unless otherwise noted, sales growth and decline percentages are presented on an as-reported basis. A description and reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP results appear in the tables below and can be found on the Company’s website www.waters.com in the Investor Relations section.

Full-Year and Fourth Quarter 2024 Financial Guidance

Full-Year 2024 Financial Guidance

The Company is raising its full-year 2024 sales guidance, and now expects organic constant currency sales growth to be in the range of -0.9% to -0.3%. Currency translation is expected to decrease full-year sales growth by 1.2%. M&A contribution from the Wyatt transaction covering the first four-and-a-half months of the year has added 1.3% to full-year reported sales. The resulting full-year 2024 reported sales growth is expected in the range of -0.8% to -0.2%.

The Company is also raising its full-year 2024 non-GAAP EPS guidance to now be in the range of $11.67 to $11.87, which includes an estimated headwind of approximately 3% due to unfavorable foreign exchange.

Please refer to the tables below for a reconciliation of the projected GAAP to non-GAAP financial outlook for the full year.

Fourth Quarter 2024 Financial Guidance

The Company expects fourth quarter 2024 constant currency sales growth to be in the range of +5.0% to +7.0%. Currency translation is expected to decrease fourth quarter sales growth by 1.7%. The resulting fourth quarter 2024 reported sales growth is expected in the range of +3.3% to +5.3%.

The Company expects fourth quarter 2024 non-GAAP EPS to be in the range of $3.90 to $4.10, which includes an estimated headwind of approximately 3% due to unfavorable foreign exchange.

Please refer to the tables below for a reconciliation of the projected GAAP to non-GAAP financial outlook for the fourth quarter.

Conference Call Details

Waters Corporation will webcast its third quarter 2024 financial results conference call today, November 1, 2024, at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time. To listen to the call and see the accompanying slide presentation, please visit www.waters.com, select “Investor Relations” under the “About Waters” section, navigate to “Events & Presentations,” and click on the “Webcast.” A replay will be available through November 29, 2024, on the same website by webcast and also by phone at (888) 282-0031.

About Waters Corporation

Waters Corporation (NYSE:WAT), a global leader in analytical instruments and software, has pioneered chromatography, mass spectrometry, and thermal analysis innovations serving the life, materials, food, and environmental sciences for more than 65 years. With approximately 7,500 employees worldwide, Waters operates directly in 35 countries, including 15 manufacturing facilities, and with products available in more than 100 countries. For more information, visit www.waters.com.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

This press release contains financial measures, such as organic constant currency growth rates, adjusted operating income, adjusted net income, adjusted earnings per diluted share and free cash flow, among others, which are considered “non-GAAP” financial measures under applicable U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission rules and regulations. These non-GAAP financial measures should be considered supplemental to, and not a substitute for, financial information prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). The Company’s definitions of these non-GAAP measures may differ from similarly titled measures used by others. The non-GAAP financial measures used in this press release adjust for specified items that can be highly variable or difficult to predict. The Company generally uses these non-GAAP financial measures to facilitate management’s financial and operational decision-making, including evaluation of the Company’s historical operating results, comparison to competitors’ operating results and determination of management incentive compensation. These non-GAAP financial measures reflect an additional way of viewing aspects of the Company’s operations that, when viewed with GAAP results and the reconciliations to corresponding GAAP financial measures, may provide a more complete understanding of factors and trends affecting the Company’s business. Because non-GAAP financial measures exclude the effect of items that will increase or decrease the Company’s reported results of operations, management strongly encourages investors to review the Company’s consolidated financial statements and publicly filed reports in their entirety. Reconciliations of the non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures are included in the tables accompanying this release.

Cautionary Statement

This release contains “forward-looking” statements regarding future results and events. For this purpose, any statements that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed forward-looking statements. Without limiting the foregoing, the words “feels”, “believes”, “anticipates”, “plans”, “expects”, “intends”, “suggests”, “appears”, “estimates”, “projects” and similar expressions, whether in the negative or affirmative, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. The Company’s actual future results may differ significantly from the results discussed in the forward- looking statements within this release for a variety of reasons, including and without limitation, risks related to, and expectations or ability to realize commercial success of the Wyatt transaction; the impact of this transaction on the Company’s business, anticipated progress on Waters’ research programs, development of new analytical instruments and associated software or consumables, manufacturing development and capabilities; the increased indebtedness of the Company as a result of the Wyatt transaction, the repayment of which could impact the Company’s future results, market prospects for its products and sales and earnings guidance; foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations potentially affecting translation of the Company’s future non-U.S. operating results, particularly when a foreign currency weakens against the U.S. dollar; current global economic, sovereign and political conditions and uncertainties, including the effect of new or proposed tariff or trade regulations as well as other new or changed domestic and foreign laws, regulations and policies; changes in inflation and interest rates; the impacts and costs of war, in particular as a result of the ongoing conflicts between Russia and Ukraine and in the Middle East, and the possibility of further escalation resulting in new geopolitical and regulatory instability; the Chinese government’s ongoing tightening of restrictions on procurement by government-funded customers; the Company’s ability to access capital, maintain liquidity and service the Company’s debt in volatile market conditions; risks related to the effects of any pandemic on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects; changes in timing and demand for the Company’s products among the Company’s customers and various market sectors, particularly as a result of fluctuations in their expenditures or ability to obtain funding; the ability to realize the expected benefits related to the Company’s various cost-saving initiatives, including workforce reductions and organizational restructurings; the introduction of competing products by other companies and loss of market share, as well as pressures on prices from competitors and/or customers; changes in the competitive landscape as a result of changes in ownership, mergers and continued consolidation among the Company’s competitors; regulatory, economic and competitive obstacles to new product introductions; lack of acceptance of new products and inability to grow organically through innovation; rapidly changing technology and product obsolescence; risks associated with previous or future acquisitions, strategic investments, joint ventures and divestitures, including risks associated with achieving the anticipated financial results and operational synergies; contingent purchase price payments and expansion of our business into new or developing markets; risks associated with unexpected disruptions in operations; failure to adequately protect the Company’s intellectual property, infringement of intellectual property rights of third parties and inability to obtain licenses on commercially reasonable terms; the Company’s ability to acquire adequate sources of supply and its reliance on outside contractors for certain components and modules, as well as disruptions to its supply chain; risks associated with third-party sales intermediaries and resellers; the impact and costs of changes in statutory or contractual tax rates in jurisdictions in which the Company operates as well as shifts in taxable income among jurisdictions with different effective tax rates, the outcome of ongoing and future tax examinations and changes in legislation affecting the Company’s effective tax rate; the Company’s ability to attract and retain qualified employees and management personnel; risks associated with cybersecurity and technology, including attempts by third parties to defeat the security measures of the Company and its third-party partners; increased regulatory burdens as the Company’s business evolves, especially with respect to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, among others, and in connection with government contracts; regulatory, environmental and logistical obstacles affecting the distribution of the Company’s products, completion of purchase order documentation and the ability of customers to obtain letters of credit or other financing alternatives; risks associated with litigation and other legal and regulatory proceedings; and the impact and costs incurred from changes in accounting principles and practices. Such factors and others are discussed more fully in the sections entitled “Forward-Looking Statements” and “Risk Factors” of the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, as well as in the sections entitled “Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” and “Risk Factors” of the Company’s quarterly reports on Form 10-Q for the quarterly periods ended March 30, 2024 and June 29, 2024, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), which discussions are incorporated by reference in this release, as updated by the Company’s future filings with the SEC. The forward-looking statements included in this release represent the Company’s estimates or views as of the date of this release and should not be relied upon as representing the Company’s estimates or views as of any date subsequent to the date of this release. Except as required by law, the Company does not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

Waters Corporation and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Operations

(In thousands, except per share data)

(Unaudited)

Three Months Ended

Nine Months Ended

September 28,
2024

September 30,
2023

September 28,
2024

September 30,
2023

Net sales

$ 740,305

$ 711,692

$ 2,085,673

$ 2,136,942

Costs and operating expenses:

Cost of sales

301,655

291,407

851,685

876,863

Selling and administrative expenses

169,097

186,748

516,880

555,657

Research and development expenses

45,336

41,995

136,113

130,559

Purchased intangibles amortization

11,759

12,116

35,337

20,410

Litigation provision

1,326

–

11,568

–

Operating income

211,132

179,426

534,090

553,453

Other (expense) income, net

(338)

328

1,619

1,364

Interest expense, net

(17,177)

(26,559)

(57,824)

(56,174)

Income from operations before income taxes

193,617

153,195

477,885

498,643

Provision for income taxes

32,114

18,643

71,449

72,614

Net income

$ 161,503

$ 134,552

$ 406,436

$ 426,029

Net income per basic common share

$ 2.72

$ 2.28

$ 6.85

$ 7.21

Weighted-average number of basic common shares

59,367

59,093

59,314

59,061

Net income per diluted common share

$ 2.71

$ 2.27

$ 6.83

$ 7.19

Weighted-average number of diluted common shares and equivalents

59,504

59,255

59,471

59,262

Waters Corporation and Subsidiaries

Reconciliation of GAAP to Adjusted Non-GAAP

Net Sales by Operating Segments, Products & Services, Geography and Markets

Three Months Ended September 28, 2024 and September 30, 2023

(In thousands)

Constant

Three Months Ended

Percent

Impact of

Currency

September 28, 2024

September 30, 2023

Change

Currency

Growth Rate (a)

NET SALES – OPERATING SEGMENTS

Waters

655,652

629,348

4 %

0 %

4 %

84,653

82,344

3 %

1 %

2 %

Total

740,305

711,692

4 %

0 %

4 %

NET SALES – PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Instruments

323,076

319,431

1 %

0 %

1 %

Service

278,294

263,611

6 %

0 %

6 %

Chemistry

138,935

128,650

8 %

0 %

8 %

Total Recurring

417,229

392,261

6 %

(1 %)

7 %

Total

740,305

711,692

4 %

0 %

4 %

NET SALES – GEOGRAPHY

Asia

251,329

238,228

5 %

(1 %)

6 %

Americas

279,136

275,479

1 %

0 %

1 %

Europe

209,840

197,985

6 %

2 %

4 %

Total

740,305

711,692

4 %

0 %

4 %

NET SALES – MARKETS

Pharmaceutical

430,138

421,535

2 %

(1 %)

3 %

Industrial

227,740

209,449

9 %

2 %

7 %

Academic & Government

82,427

80,708

2 %

0 %

Total

740,305

711,692

4 %

0 %

4 %

(a)

The Company believes that referring to comparable constant currency growth rates is a useful way to evaluate the underlying performance of Waters Corporation’s net sales. Constant currency growth, a non-GAAP financial measure, measures the change in net sales between current and prior year periods, excluding the impact of foreign currency exchange rates during the current period. See description of non-GAAP financial measures contained in this release.

Waters Corporation and Subsidiaries

Reconciliation of GAAP to Adjusted Non-GAAP

Net Sales by Operating Segments, Products & Services, Geography and Markets

Nine Months Ended September 28, 2024 and September 30, 2023

(In thousands)

Organic

Constant

Nine Months Ended

Percent

Impact of

Currency

September 28, 2024

September 30, 2023

Change

Currency

Acquisitions

Growth Rate (a)

NET SALES – OPERATING SEGMENTS

Waters

1,840,112

1,884,658

(2 %)

(1 %)

2 %

(3 %)

245,561

252,284

(3 %)

(1 %)

0 %

(2 %)

Total

2,085,673

2,136,942

(2 %)

(1 %)

2 %

(3 %)

NET SALES – PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Instruments

859,079

964,380

(11 %)

0 %

3 %

(14 %)

Service

812,367

774,478

5 %

(1 %)

1 %

5 %

Chemistry

414,227

398,084

4 %

(1 %)

0 %

5 %

Total Recurring

1,226,594

1,172,562

5 %

(1 %)

1 %

5 %

Total

2,085,673

2,136,942

(2 %)

(1 %)

2 %

(3 %)

NET SALES – GEOGRAPHY

Asia

696,319

745,932

(7 %)

(3 %)

1 %

(5 %)

Americas

794,775

804,827

(1 %)

0 %

3 %

(4 %)

Europe

594,579

586,183

1 %

2 %

(3 %)

Total

2,085,673

2,136,942

(2 %)

(1 %)

2 %

(3 %)

NET SALES – MARKETS

Pharmaceutical

1,220,092

1,233,177

(1 %)

2 %

(2 %)

Industrial

644,459

648,754

(1 %)

0 %

1 %

(2 %)

Academic & Government

221,122

255,011

(13 %)

1 %

2 %

(16 %)

Total

2,085,673

2,136,942

(2 %)

(1 %)

2 %

(3 %)

(a)

The Company believes that referring to comparable organic constant currency growth rates is a useful way to evaluate the underlying performance of Waters Corporation’s net sales. Organic constant currency growth, a non-GAAP financial measure, measures the change in net sales between current and prior year periods, excluding the impact of foreign currency exchange rates during the current period and excluding the impact of acquisitions made within twelve months of the acquisition close date. See description of non-GAAP financial measures contained in this release.

Waters Corporation and Subsidiaries

Reconciliation of GAAP to Adjusted Non-GAAP Financials

Three and Nine Months Ended September 28, 2024 and September 30, 2023

(In thousands, except per share data)

Income from

Operations

Selling &

Research &

Operating

Other

before

Provision for

Diluted

Administrative

Development

Operating

Income

(Expense)

Income

Net

Earnings

Expenses(a)

Expenses

Income

Percentage

Income

Taxes

Income

per Share

Three Months Ended September 28, 2024

GAAP

182,182

45,336

211,132

28.5 %

(338)

193,617

32,114

161,503

2.71

Adjustments:

Purchased intangibles amortization (b)

(11,759)

–

11,759

1.6 %

–

11,759

2,814

8,945

0.15

Litigation provision (c)

(1,326)

–

1,326

0.2 %

–

1,326

318

1,008

0.02

Restructuring costs and certain other items (d)

(1,194)

–

1,194

0.2 %

–

1,194

282

912

0.02

Retention bonus obligation (f)

(1,909)

(636)

2,545

0.3 %

–

2,545

611

1,934

0.03

Adjusted Non-GAAP

165,994

44,700

227,956

30.8 %

(338)

210,441

36,139

174,302

2.93

Three Months Ended September 30, 2023

GAAP

198,864

41,995

179,426

25.2 %

328

153,195

18,643

134,552

2.27

Adjustments:

Purchased intangibles amortization (b)

(12,116)

–

12,116

1.7 %

–

12,116

2,901

9,215

0.16

Restructuring costs and certain other items (d)

(24,057)

–

24,057

3.4 %

(651)

23,406

5,387

18,019

0.30

Acquisition related costs (e)

(1,263)

–

1,263

0.2 %

–

1,263

303

960

0.02

Retention bonus obligation (f)

(5,725)

(1,909)

7,634

1.1 %

–

7,634

1,832

5,802

0.10

Adjusted Non-GAAP

155,703

40,086

224,496

31.5 %

(323)

197,614

29,066

168,548

2.84

Nine Months Ended September 28, 2024

GAAP

563,785

136,113

534,090

25.6 %

1,619

477,885

71,449

406,436

6.83

Adjustments:

Purchased intangibles amortization (b)

(35,337)

–

35,337

1.7 %

–

35,337

8,456

26,881

0.45

Litigation provision and settlement (c)

(11,568)

–

11,568

0.6 %

–

11,568

2,776

8,792

0.15

Restructuring costs and certain other items (d)

(10,680)

–

10,680

0.5 %

–

10,680

2,617

8,063

0.14

Retention bonus obligation (f)

(11,451)

(3,817)

15,268

0.7 %

–

15,268

3,664

11,604

0.20

Adjusted Non-GAAP

494,749

132,296

606,943

29.1 %

1,619

550,738

88,962

461,776

7.76

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023

GAAP

576,067

130,559

553,453

25.9 %

1,364

498,643

72,614

426,029

7.19

Adjustments:

Purchased intangibles amortization (b)

(20,410)

–

20,410

1.0 %

–

20,410

4,852

15,558

0.26

Restructuring costs and certain other items (d)

(28,881)

–

28,881

1.4 %

(651)

28,230

6,860

21,370

0.36

Acquisition related costs (e)

(13,298)

–

13,298

0.6 %

–

13,298

3,191

10,107

0.17

Retention bonus obligation (f)

(8,368)

(2,790)

11,158

0.5 %

–

11,158

2,678

8,480

0.14

Adjusted Non-GAAP

505,110

127,769

627,200

29.4 %

713

571,739

90,195

481,544

8.13

________________________________

(a)

Selling & administrative expenses include purchased intangibles amortization and litigation provisions and settlements.

(b)

The purchased intangibles amortization, a non-cash expense, was excluded to be consistent with how management evaluates the performance of its core business against historical operating results and the operating results of competitors over periods of time.

(c)

Litigation provisions and settlement gains were excluded as these items are isolated, unpredictable and not expected to recur regularly.

(d)

Restructuring costs and certain other items were excluded as the Company believes that the cost to consolidate operations, reduce overhead, and certain other income or expense items are not normal and do not represent future ongoing business expenses of a specific function or geographic location of the Company.

(e)

Acquisition related costs include all incremental expenses incurred, such as advisory, legal, accounting, tax, valuation, and other professional fees. The Company believes that these costs are not normal and do not represent future ongoing business expenses.

(f)

In connection with the Wyatt acquisition, the Company started to recognize a two-year retention bonus obligation that is contingent upon the employee’s providing future service and continued employment with Waters. The Company believes that these costs are not normal and do not represent future ongoing business expenses.

Waters Corporation and Subsidiaries

Preliminary Condensed Unclassified Consolidated Balance Sheets

(In thousands and unaudited)

September 28, 2024

December 31, 2023

Cash, cash equivalents and investments

$ 331,458

$ 395,974

Accounts receivable

669,534

702,168

Inventories

518,994

516,236

Property, plant and equipment, net

642,627

639,073

Intangible assets, net

591,883

629,187

Goodwill

1,306,593

1,305,446

Other assets

450,531

438,770

Total assets

$ 4,511,620

$ 4,626,854

Notes payable and debt

$ 1,826,248

$ 2,355,513

Other liabilities

1,082,273

1,121,000

Total liabilities

2,908,521

3,476,513

Total stockholders’ equity

1,603,099

1,150,341

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

$ 4,511,620

$ 4,626,854

Waters Corporation and Subsidiaries

Preliminary Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

Three and Nine Months Ended September 28, 2024 and September 30, 2023

(In thousands and unaudited)

Three Months Ended

Nine Months Ended

September 28, 2024

September 30, 2023

September 28, 2024

September 30, 2023

Cash flows from operating activities:

Net income

$ 161,503

$ 134,552

$ 406,436

$ 426,029

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net

cash provided by operating activities:

Stock-based compensation

10,647

8,490

32,993

32,224

Depreciation and amortization

47,507

47,807

143,250

117,845

Change in operating assets and liabilities and other, net

(15,077)

(33,031)

(60,695)

(203,411)

Net cash provided by operating activities

204,580

157,818

521,984

372,687

Cash flows from investing activities:

Additions to property, plant, equipment

and software capitalization

(25,618)

(38,047)

(90,377)

(119,044)

Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired

–

(1,285,907)

(Investments in) proceeds from unaffiliated companies

(425)

651

(1,489)

651

Net change in investments

(8)

(5)

(44)

(21)

Net cash used in investing activities

(26,051)

(37,401)

(91,910)

(1,404,321)

Cash flows from financing activities:

Net change in debt

(180,000)

(125,181)

(530,000)

929,601

Proceeds from stock plans

3,237

9,464

25,073

18,092

Purchases of treasury shares

(141)

(692)

(13,475)

(70,433)

Other cash flow from financing activities, net

2,884

15,305

8,178

Net cash used in financing activities

(176,884)

(113,525)

(503,097)

885,438

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

2,442

(171)

8,461

2,081

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

4,087

6,721

(64,562)

(144,115)

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

326,427

329,693

395,076

480,529

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

$ 330,514

$ 336,414

$ 330,514

$ 336,414

Reconciliation of GAAP Cash Flows from Operating Activities to Free Cash Flow (a)

Net cash provided by operating activities – GAAP

$ 204,580

$ 157,818

$ 521,984

$ 372,687

Adjustments:

Additions to property, plant, equipment

and software capitalization

(25,618)

(38,047)

(90,377)

(119,044)

Tax reform payments

–

95,645

72,101

Litigation settlements (received) paid, net

–

(375)

9,250

(1,125)

Major facility renovations

–

3,291

–

12,151

Payment of acquired Wyatt liabilities (b)

–

25,617

Payment of Wyatt retention bonus obligation (c)

–

19,770

–

Free Cash Flow – Adjusted Non-GAAP

$ 178,962

$ 122,687

$ 556,272

$ 362,387

(a)

The Company defines free cash flow as net cash flow from operations accounted for under GAAP less capital expenditures and software capitalizations plus or minus any unusual and non recurring items. Free cash flow is not a GAAP measurement and may not be comparable to free cash flow reported by other companies.

(b)

In connection with the Wyatt acquisition, the Company assumed certain obligations of Wyatt and paid those obligations immediately upon closing the transaction. The Company believes that the assumed obligations do not represent future ongoing business expenses.

(c)

During the nine months ended September 28, 2024, the Company made its first retention payment under the Wyatt retention bonus program. The Company believes that these payments are not normal and do not represent future ongoing business expenses.

Waters Corporation and Subsidiaries

Reconciliation of Projected GAAP to Adjusted Non-GAAP Financial Outlook

Twelve Months Ended

Three Months Ended

December 31, 2024

Range

Projected Sales

Organic constant currency sales growth rate (a)

(0.9 %)

–

(0.3 %)

5.0 %

–

7.0 %

Impact of:

Currency translation

(1.2 %)

–

(1.2 %)

(1.7 %)

–

(1.7 %)

Acquisitions

1.3 %

–

1.3 %

‒

–

‒

Sales growth rate as reported

(0.8 %)

–

(0.2 %)

3.3 %

–

5.3 %

Range

Projected Earnings Per Diluted Share

GAAP earnings per diluted share

$ 10.55

–

$ 10.75

$ 3.72

–

$ 3.92

Adjustments:

Purchased intangibles amortization

$ 0.60

–

$ 0.60

$ 0.15

–

$ 0.15

Litigation settlement

$ 0.15

–

$ 0.15

$ –

–

$ –

Restructuring costs and certain other items

$ 0.14

–

$ 0.14

$ –

–

$ –

Retention bonus obligation

$ 0.23

–

$ 0.23

$ 0.03

–

$ 0.03

Adjusted non-GAAP earnings per diluted share

$ 11.67

–

$ 11.87

$ 3.90

–

$ 4.10

(a) Organic constant currency growth rates are a non-GAAP financial measure that measures the change in net sales between current and prior year periods, excluding the impact of foreign currency exchange rates during the current period and excluding the impact of acquisitions made within twelve months of the acquisition close date. These amounts are estimated at the current foreign currency exchange rates and based on the forecasted geographical sales in local currency, as well as an assessment of market conditions as of today, and may differ significantly from actual results.

These forward-looking adjustment estimates do not reflect future gains and charges that are inherently difficult to predict and estimate due to their unknown timing, effect and/or significance.

Contact: Caspar Tudor, Head of Investor Relations – (508) 482-2429

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SOURCE Waters Corporation

Technology

DEKRA Korea to Acquire Global Product Service, Strengthening Consumer Electronics Testing and Certification Capabilities in Korea

Published

24 minutes ago

April 20, 2026

GIMHAE-SI, South Korea, April 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — DEKRA, a leading global provider of testing, inspection, and certification services, today announced it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Global Product Service Co., Ltd (GPS), a prominent South Korean company renowned for its expertise in consumer electronics product testing and certification.

This strategic acquisition will significantly enhance DEKRA Korea’s capabilities within the rapidly growing consumer electronics sector, bringing together DEKRA’s global network and comprehensive service portfolio with GPS’s deep-rooted local knowledge and decades of experience serving South Korea’s leading manufacturers.

GPS has established a strong reputation for its in-depth technical expertise and unwavering commitment to quality, particularly within the consumer electronics market. For many years, GPS has been a trusted partner to major South Korean electronics companies, providing testing and certification services that ensure product safety, performance, and compliance with international standards.

The successful acquisition is a result of the strong collaboration and commitment from both DEKRA and GPS. Key representatives who participated in the signing, embodying this collaboration, were Dr. Kilian Aviles, Executive Vice President of DEKRA Group and Head of Asia Pacific Region; Ming Sheng, Vice President of Automotive Testing, DEKRA China; Young Seok Lee, CEO of Global Product Service Co., Ltd; and Seong Su Kim, Director of Global Product Service Co., Ltd.

“We are thrilled to welcome Global Product Service Co., Ltd to the DEKRA family,” said Dr. Kilian Aviles, Executive Vice President of DEKRA Group and Head of Asia Pacific Region. “This acquisition represents a significant milestone in our growth strategy in South Korea. GPS’s deep understanding of the local market, combined with their specialized expertise in consumer electronics, perfectly complements DEKRA’s global strengths. Together, we will offer unparalleled testing and certification solutions to our clients, empowering them to bring innovative and reliable products to market with greater speed and confidence.”

The integration of GPS into DEKRA Korea will leverage synergies in technology, talent, and market reach. This will enable DEKRA to further support South Korean manufacturers as they navigate complex global regulatory landscapes and strive for excellence in product development and quality assurance. Clients can expect a seamless transition and continued access to the high-quality services they have come to rely on from both organizations.

Young Seok Lee, CEO of Global Product Service Co., Ltd commented, “Joining forces with DEKRA is an exciting opportunity for GPS. DEKRA’s global reach and extensive resources will allow us to expand our service offerings and better serve our existing and future clients. We are confident that this partnership will create significant value for the South Korean consumer electronics industry, providing enhanced support and innovation.”

About DEKRA

For more than 100 years, DEKRA has been a trusted name in safety. Founded in 1925 with the original goal of improving road safety through vehicle inspections, DEKRA has grown to become the world’s largest independent, non-listed expert organization in the field of testing, inspection, and certification. Today, as a global partner, the company supports its customers with comprehensive services and solutions to drive safety and sustainability forward—fully aligned with DEKRA’s anniversary motto, “Securing the Future.” In 2024, DEKRA generated revenue of 4.3 billion euros. Around 48,000 employees are providing qualified and independent expert services in approximately 60 countries across five continents. DEKRA holds a Platinum rating from EcoVadis, placing it among the top 1% of the world’s most sustainable companies.

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SOURCE DEKRA Asia Pacific

Technology

BLUETTI Showcases Integrated PAYGO Energy Solution at Canton Fair, Expanding Partnership Opportunities in Africa

Published

24 minutes ago

April 20, 2026

GUANGZHOU, China, April 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — From April 15-19, 2026, at the 139th Canton Fair, clean energy innovator BLUETTI presented an integrated Pay-As-You-Go (PAYGO) solution that combines digital distribution tools with off-grid energy products, as the company expands its presence in emerging markets, particularly across Africa.

The solution brings together BLUETTI’s proprietary BLUETTI GO platform and a range of PAYGO-enabled solar home systems, reflecting a broader shift in the industry from standalone hardware sales to more structured distribution and financing models.

PAYGO has gained traction in regions where upfront costs remain a key barrier to energy access. By enabling installment-based payments and remote device management, the model allows consumers to access electricity services with lower initial investment, while offering distributors greater visibility into repayment and asset performance.

BLUETTI GO serves as a centralized platform for distributors, integrating sales tracking, inventory control, credit profiling, payment overdue tracking, risk monitoring, and operational analysis. These features are designed to help partners operate more efficiently and support long-term business planning in PAYGO-driven markets.

The company’s product lineup includes entry-level solar home systems such as the P80(battery capacity 76.8Wh), to African Star (battery capacity 1728Wh), designed for basic electricity needs, as well as the higher-capacity Home Star (battery capacity 2kWh-5kWh) series for off-grid household energy storage. These systems can be deployed independently or bundled with appliances such as televisions, fans, and lighting equipment.

As demand for decentralized energy solutions grows across Africa, supported by both public and private investment in renewable infrastructure, PAYGO models are playing a larger role in bridging the gap between energy access and affordability.

Driven by product breakthroughs and innovative business practices, BLUETTI has been enlarging its footprint in the region in recent years. The company operates across more than 40 African countries, supported by local teams and pilot programs, including a Nigerian initiative launched in 2020 that has expanded into a network of branded retail outlets.

About BLUETTI

Founded in 2013, BLUETTI is a leading global provider of energy storage solutions, specializing in home solar batteries, portable power stations, and solar generators. Through initiatives like the LAAF (Lighting Africa Affordable Financing program), BLUETTI aims to power 1 million African families in off-grid areas. Today, it serves over 3.5 million users in 140+ countries and regions. Learn more: https://bluetti.com/

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2960004/paygo_leads_______1.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/bluetti-showcases-integrated-paygo-energy-solution-at-canton-fair-expanding-partnership-opportunities-in-africa-302746811.html

Technology

Moomoo Pioneers the Era of Agentic Investing with Launch of Moomoo API Skills

Published

24 minutes ago

April 20, 2026

The first AI-powered API Skills that turn trading ideas into execution — no coding required

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia and SINGAPORE, April 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Moomoo today announced the launch of Moomoo API Skills, its AI-powered capability that enables investors to execute sophisticated trading strategies using natural language — marking a major leap in making institutional-grade tools accessible to all.

This breakthrough positions Moomoo at the forefront of a new era of investing, where anyone with an idea can turn it into action — without writing a single line of code.

A First-of-Its-Kind Breakthrough in Investor Accessibility

For years, advanced trading capabilities such as algorithmic strategies, real-time automation, and multi-market data access have long been limited to professional traders.

Moomoo API Skills removes this barrier.

Investors can now describe their strategy in plain language, from technical signals to execution conditions, and have it translated into live or simulated trades instantly.

“This is the first time Wall Street-level trading capability is made truly accessible through everyday language,” said Robin Xu, Group Senior Partner & Senior Vice President, Futu Holdings. “We are not just simplifying trading tools — we are redefining who gets to use them.”

From Tools to Trading Assistants

Moomoo API Skills introduces a new paradigm of agentic investing, where AI acts as an execution partner rather than a passive tool.

Instead of navigating complex systems, investors can:

Describe their strategyLet AI translate it into execution logicMonitor and respond to markets in real time

This effectively creates an always on trading assistant, enabling faster and more structured decision making.

Institutional Capabilities Made Accessible

Built on Moomoo’s Open API ecosystem, the capability provides:

Zero code strategy executionGlobal market access across US, Singapore, Hong Kong SAR, Japan, and moreReal time monitoring and automated triggers

At the same time, Moomoo maintains strong control and security through its local-first architecture powered by Moomoo OpenD, where:

Data remains on the user’s local environmentExecution requires user confirmationExposure to third party risks is reduced

Closing the Execution Gap

Today’s investors are not short of information, but often face challenges in executing consistently and efficiently. Moomoo API Skills is designed to close this gap by simplifying how strategies are expressed and carried through. It also strengthens Moomoo’s ecosystem, including Moo Academy, MooveNetwork and the Option Playbook, enabling a seamless journey from learning to execution.

“The challenge today is no longer access to information, but the ability to act on it effectively,” said Xu.
“Moomoo API Skills helps investors translate intent into structured action while keeping them fully in control.”

Pioneering the Next Phase of Investing

The launch reflects a broader shift in investing, from tool based platforms to intent driven systems. With Moomoo API Skills, investors can define what they want to achieve, while intelligent systems handle how it is executed. This creates a more direct and structured path from idea to action, allowing investors to focus on strategy rather than operational complexity.

“We believe the next phase of investing is agentic — where investors define their intent and intelligent systems help carry out strategies. With Moomoo API Skills, investors can turn their ideas into structured strategies that can be tested and executed seamlessly within a single environment. Our focus is on enabling this in a way that enhances decision-making while keeping investors fully in control, bringing a more intuitive and accessible approach to strategy-driven investing,” said Xu.

About Moomoo

Moomoo is a leading global investment and trading platform dedicated to empowering investors with user-friendly tools, data, and insights. Our platform is designed to provide essential information and technology, enabling users to make well-informed investment decisions. With advanced charting tools, pro-level analytical features, Moomoo evolves alongside our users, fostering a dynamic community where investors can share, learn, and grow together.

Founded in the US, Moomoo has expanded its global presence to serve investors across multiple markets, including Singapore, Australia, Japan, Canada, Malaysia, and New Zealand. As a subsidiary of a Nasdaq-listed company, Moomoo is trusted by more than 29 million investors worldwide and has earned recognition from leading financial institutions and publications for its innovation and reliability.

For more information, please visit Moomoo’s official website at www.moomoo.com

Disclaimers

The contents herein do not constitute an offer, solicitation or recommendation to invest in any capital market products. Investors should understand the risks involved in relation to the products and services, conduct their own risk assessment and seek professional advice, where necessary. Investors should compare and consider the fee, charges and costs involved. Past performance is not indicative of future performance.

This document has not been reviewed by the Securities Commission Malaysia. Please refer to the Advertisement Disclaimer on our website.

Investments in capital market products involve risk. Full disclaimers at www.moomoo.com/sg/support/topic5_510. This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.

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SOURCE Moomoo