Leidos Reports Strong Results in Q3 and Raises Guidance

image

Leidos Reports Strong Results in Q3 and Raises Guidance

Leidos Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: LDOS), a leading science and technology solutions company, showcased strong financial performance in the third quarter of 2024, marking its sixth consecutive quarter of growth. CEO Tom Bell and CFO Chris Cage announced that the company raised its full-year guidance following a record adjusted EBITDA margin of 14.2% and a 44% increase in adjusted diluted earnings per share.

Leidos also reported a significant free cash flow conversion rate of 159% and is approaching its $500 million share repurchase target for the year. The company announced that its quarterly dividend will be increased to $0.40 per share for registered shareholders, effective December 16.

Key Highlights:

  • Leidos reported a record adjusted EBITDA margin of 14.2% and a 44% increase in adjusted diluted earnings per share.
  • Free cash flow conversion rate was 159%, and the company executed a $200 million share repurchase.
  • The quarterly dividend is set to increase to $0.40 per share for shareholders effective December 16.
  • The company received $8.1 billion in net orders, bringing the total backlog to $40.6 billion.
  • Third-quarter revenue reached $4.19 billion, reflecting a 7% increase compared to the previous year.
  • Leidos raised its 2024 revenue guidance to a range of $16.35 billion to $16.45 billion and lifted its adjusted EBITDA guidance to a high single-digit range.

Company Outlook: Leidos raised its 2024 revenue guidance to $16.35 billion - $16.45 billion and adjusted EBITDA guidance to a high single-digit range. GAAP net diluted earnings per share guidance has been increased to $9.80 - $10.00, with low single-digit revenue growth projected for 2025. The Investor Day in March 2025 will focus on the company’s strategic direction and growth opportunities.

Challenges: The National Security and Digital segment is facing challenges due to budgetary changes and personnel issues. A modest decline in revenue is expected in the fourth quarter due to seasonal factors and potential funding cuts.

Positive Developments: The Health & Civil segment is performing strongly in managed healthcare, particularly due to increased demand stemming from the PACT Act. The Defense Systems segment benefited from the IFPC Enduring Shield program and anticipates growth from new programs such as the small caliber munitions and Black Arrow.

Shortcomings: The National Security and Digital segment showed only a 1% revenue increase while refocusing to leverage digital modernization.

Q&A Highlights: The company is investing in innovation within VBA and expects future competitions to drive innovation. Leidos is optimistic about the long-term contribution of the CHS-6 program and future multiyear contracts with the VA. Strategic investments in the fourth quarter will focus on innovation, technology, and employee engagement, with strong margins expected to remain around 12%.

Leidos Holdings, Inc. demonstrated robust financial performance in the third quarter of 2024, with significant growth in its key financial metrics and a solid strategy for future growth. The company’s emphasis on operational efficiency, high-quality contracts, and its North Star growth strategy positions it well for sustainable growth and profitability. With a strong backlog and strategic focus on key segments, Leidos is well-positioned to maintain its competitive advantage in the science and technology solutions industry.

InvestingPro Insights: Leidos Holdings' impressive third-quarter performance is further highlighted by several key metrics and forecasts from InvestingPro. The company's market capitalization stands at a strong $24.92 billion, reflecting its robust position in the Professional Services sector, consistent with the reported growth and raised guidance for 2024.

InvestingPro data indicate that Leidos generated a notable $16.01 billion in revenue over the past twelve months leading up to Q2 2024, achieving a healthy 7.86% revenue growth. This growth trend aligns with the reported 7% revenue increase reaching $4.19 billion in the third quarter.

One of the relevant InvestingPro insights emphasizes that Leidos has raised its dividend for six consecutive years, aligning with the company’s announcement to increase its quarterly dividend to $0.40 per share. This reflects Leidos’s commitment to creating shareholder value and is a positive signal for investors.

Another pertinent InvestingPro Tip shows that Leidos' net income is expected to rise this year. This expectation is consistent with the company’s reported 44% increase in adjusted diluted earnings per share and the upward revision of GAAP net diluted earnings per share guidance to $9.80 - $10.00.

It is worth noting that Leidos is trading near its 52-week high and has provided a significant return of 104.83% over the past year. This performance reflects the market’s positive reaction to the company’s strong financial results and optimistic outlook.

For investors looking for comprehensive forecasts, InvestingPro offers 18 additional insights into Leidos Holdings, providing a deeper understanding of the company's financial health and market position.