Agco reports Q4 EPS $3.78, consensus $4.02

Reports Q4 revenue $3.8B, consensus $4.03B. “AGCO delivered record results in 2023 highlighted by significantly higher net sales and operating margins due to the continued execution of our Farmer-First strategy and healthy global industry demand,” said Eric Hansotia, AGCO’s Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer. “Driven by our high margin growth initiatives of globalizing a full-line of our Fendt branded products, precision ag business and expanding our parts and service business, net sales outgrew the market and full year adjusted operating margins reached a record high at 12.0% of net sales. We also continued to increase our technology development efforts with engineering expense up over 23% in 2023 compared to 2022 and up over 60% compared to 2020. These levels of higher investments are producing increased technology patents for AGCO, award-winning value-enhancing products for our farmers and record financial results for our shareholders.” Mr. Hansotia continued, “For 2024, we will remain focused on our primary growth initiatives as well as driving further operational efficiencies. We expect these efforts to mitigate some of the softening industry demand. More challenging global market conditions are expected in 2024 due to reduced commodity prices and modestly lower farm income expectations. Despite a lower sales forecast, we expect higher and more resilient margins compared to past cycles due to structural improvements in our business. We will continue to accelerate investments in premium technology, smart farming solutions and enhanced digital capabilities to support our Farmer-First strategy while helping to sustainably feed the world.”