Universal Corp 10-Q for FY2025 Q1
Universal Corp /Va/ (UVV)
10-Q
2024-08-07
For: 2024-06-30
View Original
Added on
April 10, 2026
About this 10-Q
Universal Corp filed this 10-Q on August 7, 2024, covering the quarter ended June 30, 2024 (FY2025 Q1).
Headline figures
Quarter ended June 30, 2024, as reported in this filing, compared with the same period a year earlier where the filing states it.
- Revenue
- $596.4M
- up 15.5% from $516.37M a year earlier
- Net income
- $130K
- compared with a net loss of $2.06M a year earlier
- Diluted EPS
- $0.01
- compared with -$0.08 a year earlier
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 | |||||||||||
| FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED | |||||||||||
| OR | |||||||||||
| TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 | |||||||||||
| FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM ______________TO_______________ | |||||||||||
Commission File Number: 001-00652
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
| (State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) | (I.R.S. Employer Identification Number) | ||||||||||
| (Address of principal executive offices) | (Zip Code) | ||||||||||
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act:
| Title of each class | Trading Symbol(s) | Name of Exchange on which registered | ||||||
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes þ No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes þ No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
| þ | Accelerated filer | ☐ | Non-accelerated filer | ☐ | |||||||||||||
| Smaller reporting company | Emerging growth company | ||||||||||||||||
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐ No ☑
As of August 5, 2024, the total number of shares of common stock outstanding was 24,692,747 .
UNIVERSAL CORPORATION
FORM 10-Q
TABLE OF CONTENTS
| Item No. | Page | |||||||
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION | ||||||||
| 1. | ||||||||
| 2. | ||||||||
| 3. | ||||||||
| 4. | ||||||||
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION | ||||||||
| 1. | ||||||||
| 2. | Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds | |||||||
| 5. | ||||||||
6. | ||||||||
2
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
UNIVERSAL CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(in thousands, except share and per share data)
| Three Months Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2024 | 2023 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (Unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sales and other operating revenues | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Costs and expenses | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cost of goods sold | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Selling, general and administrative expenses | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Operating income | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Equity in pretax earnings (loss) of unconsolidated affiliates | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other non-operating income (expense) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Interest income | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Interest expense | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Income (loss) before income taxes and other items | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Income taxes | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net income (loss) | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Less: net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests in subsidiaries | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net income (loss) attributable to Universal Corporation | $ | $ | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Earnings per share: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic | $ | $ | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Diluted | $ | $ | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Weighted average common shares outstanding: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Diluted | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes | $ | ( | $ | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Less: comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Universal Corporation | $ | ( | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends declared per common share | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
See accompanying notes.
3
UNIVERSAL CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands of dollars)
| June 30, | June 30, | March 31, | ||||||||||||||||||
| 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | ||||||||||||||||||
| (Unaudited) | (Unaudited) | |||||||||||||||||||
| ASSETS | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Current assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||
| Accounts receivable, net | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Advances to suppliers, net | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Accounts receivable—unconsolidated affiliates | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Inventories—at lower of cost or net realizable value: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Tobacco | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Other | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Prepaid income taxes | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Other current assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Total current assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Property, plant and equipment | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Land | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Buildings | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Machinery and equipment | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Less accumulated depreciation | ( | ( | ( | |||||||||||||||||
| Other assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Operating lease right-of-use assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Goodwill, net | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Other intangibles, net | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Investments in unconsolidated affiliates | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Deferred income taxes | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Pension asset | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Other noncurrent assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Total assets | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||
See accompanying notes.
4
UNIVERSAL CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands of dollars)
| June 30, | June 30, | March 31, | ||||||||||||||||||
| 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | ||||||||||||||||||
| (Unaudited) | (Unaudited) | |||||||||||||||||||
| LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Current liabilities | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Notes payable and overdrafts | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||
| Accounts payable | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Accounts payable—unconsolidated affiliates | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Customer advances and deposits | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Accrued compensation | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Income taxes payable | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Current portion of operating lease liabilities | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Accrued expenses and other current liabilities | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Current portion of long-term debt | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Total current liabilities | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Long-term debt | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Pensions and other postretirement benefits | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Long-term operating lease liabilities | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Other long-term liabilities | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Deferred income taxes | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Total liabilities | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Shareholders’ equity | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Universal Corporation: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Preferred stock: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, no par value, | ||||||||||||||||||||
Common stock, no par value, | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Retained earnings | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Accumulated other comprehensive loss | ( | ( | ( | |||||||||||||||||
| Total Universal Corporation shareholders' equity | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Noncontrolling interests in subsidiaries | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Total shareholders' equity | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Total liabilities and shareholders' equity | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||
See accompanying notes.
5
UNIVERSAL CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands of dollars)
| Three Months Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||||
| 2024 | 2023 | |||||||||||||
| (Unaudited) | ||||||||||||||
| CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||||||||
| Net income (loss) | $ | ( | $ | ( | ||||||||||
| Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash used by operating activities: | ||||||||||||||
| Depreciation and amortization | ||||||||||||||
| Net provision for losses (recoveries) on advances to suppliers | ( | |||||||||||||
| Inventory writedowns | ||||||||||||||
| Stock-based compensation expense | ||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency remeasurement (gain) loss, net | ||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency exchange contracts | ( | |||||||||||||
| Deferred income taxes | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Equity in net loss (income) of unconsolidated affiliates, net of dividends | ( | |||||||||||||
| Restructuring payments | ( | |||||||||||||
| Other, net | ||||||||||||||
| Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net: | ||||||||||||||
| Accounts and notes receivable | ||||||||||||||
| Inventories | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Other assets | ||||||||||||||
| Accounts payable | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Accrued expenses and other current liabilities | ( | |||||||||||||
| Income taxes | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Customer advances and deposits | ( | |||||||||||||
| Net cash provided (used) by operating activities | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||||||||
| Purchase of property, plant and equipment | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment | ||||||||||||||
| Net cash used by investing activities | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | ||||||||||||||
| Issuance of short-term debt, net | ||||||||||||||
| Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Dividends paid on common stock | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Other | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Net cash provided (used) by financing activities | ||||||||||||||
| Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, restricted cash and cash equivalents | ( | |||||||||||||
| Net increase (decrease) in cash, restricted cash and cash equivalents | ||||||||||||||
| Cash, restricted cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year | ||||||||||||||
| Cash, restricted cash and cash equivalents at end of period | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
See accompanying notes.
6
UNIVERSAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION
Universal Corporation, which together with its subsidiaries is referred to herein as “Universal” or the “Company,” is a global business-to-business agri-products supplier to consumer product manufacturers. The Company is the leading global leaf tobacco supplier and provides high-quality plant-based ingredients to food and beverage end markets. Because of the seasonal nature of the Company’s business, the results of operations for any fiscal quarter will not necessarily be indicative of results to be expected for other quarters or a full fiscal year. All adjustments necessary to state fairly the results for the period have been included and were of a normal recurring nature. This Form 10-Q should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024 (the “2024 Annual Report on Form 10-K”).
Accounting Pronouncements to be Adopted in Future Years
In November 2023, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2023-07, “Segment Reporting (Topic 280) - Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures” (“ASU 2023-07”). ASU 2023-07 requires additional disclosures about profitability measures utilized by the chief operating decision maker and significant segment expenses. ASU 2023-07 also requires all annual disclosures regarding profit or loss and assets to be included in interim disclosures. ASU 2023-07 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023 and for interim periods in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, although early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting this standard on its segment disclosures.
In December 2023, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2023-09, “Income Taxes (Topic 740) - Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures” (“ASU 2023-09”). ASU 2023-09 requires additional disclosures reconciling the rates of different categories of income tax (i.e. federal, state, foreign, etc.) and a disaggregation of taxes paid and refunded. ASU 2023-09 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024 and for interim periods in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2025, although early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting this standard on its income tax disclosures.
NOTE 2. REVENUE FROM CONTRACTS WITH CUSTOMERS
The majority of the Company’s consolidated revenue consists of sales of processed leaf tobacco to customers. The Company also earns revenue from processing leaf tobacco owned by customers and from various other services provided to customers. Additionally, the Company has fruit and vegetable processing operations, as well as flavor and extract services that provide customers with a range of ingredient products. Payment terms with customers vary depending on customer creditworthiness, product types, services provided, and other factors. Contract durations and payment terms for all revenue categories generally do not exceed one year. Therefore, the Company has applied a practical expedient to not adjust the transaction price for the effects of financing components, as the Company expects that the period from the time the revenue for a transaction is recognized to the time the customer pays for the related good or service transferred will be one year or less. Below is a description of the major revenue-generating categories from contracts with customers.
Tobacco Sales
The majority of the Company’s business involves purchasing leaf tobacco from farmers in the origins where it is grown, processing and packing the tobacco in its factories, and then transferring ownership and control of the tobacco to customers. On a much smaller basis, the Company also sources processed tobacco from third-party suppliers for resale to customers. The contracts for tobacco sales with customers create a performance obligation to transfer tobacco to the customer. Transaction prices for the sale of tobaccos are primarily based on negotiated fixed prices, but the Company does have a small number of cost-plus contracts with certain customers. Cost-plus arrangements provide the Company reimbursement of the cost to purchase and process the tobacco, plus a contractually agreed-upon profit margin. The Company utilizes the most likely amount methodology under the accounting guidance to recognize revenue for cost-plus arrangements with customers. Shipping and handling costs under tobacco sales contracts with customers are treated as fulfillment costs and included in the transaction price. Taxes assessed by government authorities on the sale of leaf tobacco products are excluded from the transaction price. At the point in time that the customer obtains control over the tobacco, which is typically aligned with physical shipment under the contractual terms with the customer, the Company completes its performance obligation and recognizes the revenue for the sale.
7
Ingredients Sales
The Company has diversified operations through the acquisition of established companies that offer customers a wide range of both liquid and dehydrated fruit and vegetable ingredient products, flavors, and extracts. These operations procure raw materials from domestic and international growers and suppliers and through a variety of processing steps including sorting, cleaning, pressing, mixing, extracting, and blending to manufacture finished goods utilized in beverages and both human and pet food. The contracts for ingredients with customers create a performance obligation to transfer the manufactured finished goods to the customer. Transaction prices for the sale of ingredients are primarily based on negotiated fixed prices, but the Company does have a small number of cost-plus contracts with certain customers.. At the point in time that the customer obtains control over the finished product, which is typically aligned with physical shipment under the contractual terms with the customer, the Company completes its performance obligation and recognizes the revenue for the sale.
Processing Revenue
Processing and packing of customer-owned tobacco and ingredients is a short-duration process. Processing charges are primarily based on negotiated fixed prices per unit of weight processed. Under normal operating conditions, customer-owned raw materials that are placed into the production line exits as processed and packed product and is then later transported to customer-designated transfer locations. The revenue for these services is recognized when the performance obligation is satisfied, which is generally when processing is completed. The Company’s operating history and contract analyses indicate that customer requirements for processed tobacco and food ingredients products are consistently met upon completion of processing.
Other Sales and Revenue from Contracts with Customers
From time to time, the Company enters into various arrangements with customers to provide other value-added services that may include blending, chemical and physical testing of products, storage, logistics, sorting, and tobacco cutting services for select manufacturers. These other arrangements and operations are a much smaller portion of the Company’s business, and are separate and distinct contractual agreements from the Company’s tobacco and food ingredients sales or third-party processing arrangements with customers. The transaction prices and timing of revenue recognition of these items are determined by the specifics of each contract.
Disaggregation of Revenue from Contracts with Customers
The following table disaggregates the Company’s revenue by significant revenue-generating category:
| Three Months Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (in thousands of dollars) | 2024 | 2023 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Tobacco sales | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Ingredients sales | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Processing revenue | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other sales and revenue from contracts with customers | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total revenue from contracts with customers | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other operating sales and revenues | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Consolidated sales and other operating revenues | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other operating sales and revenues consists principally of interest on advances to suppliers and dividend payments from deconsolidated affiliates.
NOTE 3. OTHER CONTINGENT LIABILITIES AND OTHER MATTERS
Other Contingent Liabilities
Other Contingent Liabilities (Letters of credit)
The Company had other contingent liabilities totaling approximately $1 million at June 30, 2024, primarily related to outstanding letters of credit.
8
Value-Added Tax Assessments in Brazil
As further discussed below, the Company’s local operating subsidiaries pay significant amounts of value-added tax (“VAT”) in connection with their operations, which generate tax credits that they normally are entitled to recover through offset, refund, or sale to third parties. In Brazil, VAT is assessed at the state level when green tobacco is transferred between states. The Company’s operating subsidiary there pays VAT when tobaccos grown outside the state of Rio Grande do Sul are transferred to the factory for processing. The subsidiary has received assessments for additional VAT plus interest and penalties from tax authorities for the state of Parana based on audits of the subsidiary’s VAT filings for specified periods. In September 2014, tax authorities for the state of Parana issued an assessment for tax, interest, and penalties for periods from 2009 through 2014 totaling approximately $10 million. Those amounts are based on the exchange rate for the Brazilian currency at June 30, 2024. Management of the operating subsidiary and outside counsel believe that errors were made by the tax authorities in determining all or significant portions of this assessment and that various defenses support the subsidiary’s positions.
Management of the subsidiary and outside counsel challenged the full amount of the Parana assessment claim. A significant portion of the Parana assessment was based on positions taken by the tax authorities that management and outside counsel believe deviate significantly from the underlying statutes and relevant case law. In addition, under the law, the subsidiary’s tax filings for certain periods covered in the assessment were no longer open to any challenge by the tax authorities. In December 2015, the Parana tax authorities withdrew the initial claim and subsequently issued a new assessment covering the same tax periods, reflecting a substantial reduction from the original assessment. In fiscal year 2020, the Parana tax authorities acknowledged the statute of limitations related to claims prior to December 2010 had expired and reduced the assessment to $3 million (at the June 30, 2024 exchange rate). Notwithstanding the reduced assessment, management and outside counsel continue to believe that the new assessment is not supported by the underlying statutes and relevant case law and have challenged the full amount of the claim. The range of reasonably possible loss is considered to be zero up to the full $3 million assessment. However, based on the strength of the subsidiary's defenses, no loss within that range is considered probable at this time and no liability has been recorded at June 30, 2024.
The process for reaching a final resolution to the assessment is expected to be lengthy, and management is not currently able to predict when the case will be concluded. Should the subsidiary ultimately be required to pay any tax, interest, or penalties in the case, the portion paid for tax would generate VAT credits that the subsidiary may be able to recover.
Other Legal and Tax Matters
Various subsidiaries of the Company are involved in litigation and tax examinations incidental to their business activities. While the outcome of these matters cannot be predicted with certainty, management is vigorously defending the matters and does not currently expect that any of them will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business or financial position. However, should one or more of these matters be resolved in a manner adverse to management’s current expectation, the effect on the Company’s results of operations for a particular fiscal reporting period could be material.
Advances to Suppliers
In many sourcing origins where the Company operates, it provides agronomy services and seasonal advances of seed, seedlings, fertilizer, and other supplies to tobacco farmers for crop production, or makes seasonal cash advances to farmers for the procurement of those inputs. These advances are short term, are repaid upon delivery of tobacco to the Company, and are reported in advances to suppliers in the consolidated balance sheets. In several origins, the Company has made long-term advances to tobacco farmers to finance curing barns and other farm infrastructure. In some years, due to low crop yields and other factors, individual farmers may not deliver sufficient volumes of tobacco to fully repay their seasonal advances, and the Company may extend repayment of those advances into future crop years. The long-term portion of advances is included in other noncurrent assets in the consolidated balance sheets. Both the current and the long-term portions of advances to suppliers are reported net of allowances recorded when the Company determines that amounts outstanding are not likely to be collected. Short-term and long-term advances to suppliers totaled $120 million at June 30, 2024, $138 million at June 30, 2023, and $162 million at March 31, 2024. The related valuation allowances totaled $19 million at June 30, 2024, $26 million at June 30, 2023, and $20 million at March 31, 2024, and were estimated based on the Company’s historical loss information and crop projections. The allowances were decreased by net recoveries of $0.8 million in the three-month period ended June 30, 2024 and increased by net provisions of approximately $1.4 million in the three-month period ended June 30, 2023. These net recoveries and provisions are included in selling, general, and administrative expenses in the consolidated statements of income. Interest on advances is recognized in earnings upon the farmers’ delivery of tobacco in payment of principal and interest.
Recoverable Value-Added Tax Credits
In many foreign countries, the Company’s local operating subsidiaries pay significant amounts of VAT on purchases of unprocessed and processed tobacco, crop inputs, packing materials, and various other goods and services. In some countries, VAT
9
is a national tax, and in other countries it is assessed at the state level. Items subject to VAT vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, as do the rates at which the tax is assessed. When tobacco is sold to customers in the country of origin, the operating subsidiaries generally collect VAT on those sales. The subsidiaries are normally permitted to offset their VAT payments against the collections and remit only the incremental VAT collections to the tax authorities. When tobacco is sold for export, VAT is normally not assessed. In countries where tobacco sales are predominately for export markets, VAT collections generated on downstream sales are often not sufficient to fully offset the subsidiaries’ VAT payments. In those situations, unused VAT credits can accumulate. Some jurisdictions have procedures that allow companies to apply for refunds of unused VAT credits from the tax authorities, but the refund process often takes an extended period of time and it is not uncommon for refund applications to be challenged or rejected in part on technical grounds. Other jurisdictions may permit companies to sell or transfer unused VAT credits to third parties in private transactions, although approval for such transactions must normally be obtained from the tax authorities, limits on the amounts that can be transferred may be imposed, and the proceeds realized may be heavily discounted from the face value of the credits. Due to these factors, local operating subsidiaries in some countries can accumulate significant balances of VAT credits over time. The Company reviews these balances on a regular basis and records valuation allowances on the credits to reflect amounts that are not expected to be recovered, as well as discounts anticipated on credits that are expected to be sold or transferred. At June 30, 2024, the aggregate balance of recoverable tax credits held by the Company’s subsidiaries totaled approximately $68 million ($76 million at June 30, 2023, and $72 million at March 31, 2024), and the related valuation allowances totaled approximately $21 million ($22 million at June 30, 2023, and $21 million at March 31, 2024). The net balances are reported in other current assets and other noncurrent assets in the consolidated balance sheets.
Shelf Registration and Stock Repurchase Plan
In November 2023, the Company filed an undenominated automatic universal shelf registration statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission to provide for the future issuance of an undefined amount of securities as determined by the Company and offered in one or more prospectus supplements prior to issuance.
10
NOTE 4. EARNINGS PER SHARE
| Three Months Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (in thousands, except share and per share data) | 2024 | 2023 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Basic Earnings (Loss) Per Share | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Numerator for basic earnings (loss) per share | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net income (loss) attributable to Universal Corporation | $ | $ | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Denominator for basic earnings (loss) per share | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Weighted average shares outstanding | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Basic earnings (loss) per share | $ | $ | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Numerator for diluted earnings (loss) per share | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net income (loss) attributable to Universal Corporation | $ | $ | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Denominator for diluted earnings (loss) per share: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Weighted average shares outstanding | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Effect of dilutive securities | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Employee and outside director share-based awards | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Denominator for diluted earnings (loss) per share | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Diluted earnings (loss) per share | $ | $ | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||
NOTE 5. INCOME TAXES
The Company operates in the United States and many foreign countries and is subject to the tax laws of many jurisdictions. Changes in tax laws or the interpretation of tax laws can affect the Company’s earnings, as can the resolution of pending and contested tax issues. The Company's consolidated effective income tax rate is affected by various factors, including the mix and timing of domestic and foreign earnings, discrete items, and the effect of exchange rate changes on taxes.
Numerous countries in which Company operates have enacted or are in the process of enacting legislation to adopt a global minimum effective tax rate described in the Global Anti-Base Erosion framework rules, or Pillar Two, issued by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (“OECD”). The Pillar Two legislation includes establishing a 15 % global minimum tax rate on a country-by-country basis and is effective for the Company's fiscal year 2025. The Company performed an assessment of the potential impact on income taxes from enactment of the Pillar Two legislation. Based on the assessment, the Company does not anticipate a material impact to the consolidated financial statements from the Pillar Two legislation in fiscal year 2025.
Three months ended June 30, 2024
The Company's consolidated effective income tax rate for the three months ended June 30, 2024 was 34.7 %.
Three months ended June 30, 2023
11
NOTE 6. GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLES
The Company's changes in goodwill at June 30, 2024 and 2023 consisted of the following:
| (in thousands of dollars) | Three Months Ended June 30, | ||||||||||
| 2024 | 2023 | ||||||||||
| Balance at beginning of fiscal year | $ | $ | |||||||||
Foreign currency translation adjustment | ( | ( | |||||||||
| Balance at end of period | $ | $ | |||||||||
The Company's intangible assets primarily consist of capitalized customer-related intangibles, trade names, proprietary developed technology and noncompetition agreements. The Company's intangible assets subject to amortization consisted of the following at June 30, 2024 and 2023 and at March 31, 2024:
| (in thousands, except useful life) | June 30, 2024 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Useful Life (years) | Gross Carrying Value | Accumulated Amortization | Net Carrying Value | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Customer relationships | — | $ | $ | ( | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Trade names | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed technology | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Noncompetition agreements | — | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total intangible assets | $ | $ | ( | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| June 30, 2023 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Useful Life (years) | Gross Carrying Value | Accumulated Amortization | Net Carrying Value | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Customer relationships | — | $ | $ | ( | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Trade names | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed technology | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Noncompetition agreements | — | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total intangible assets | $ | $ | ( | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| March 31, 2024 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Useful Life (years) | Gross Carrying Value | Accumulated Amortization | Net Carrying Value | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Customer relationships | — | $ | $ | ( | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Trade names | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed technology | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Noncompetition agreements | — | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total intangible assets | $ | $ | ( | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over the asset's estimated useful economic life, as noted above.
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The Company's amortization expense for intangible assets for the three months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023 was:
| (in thousands of dollars) | Three Months Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2024 | 2023 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Amortization Expense | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||
As of June 30, 2024, the expected future amortization expense for intangible assets is as follows:
| Fiscal Year (in thousands of dollars) | |||||
2025 (excluding the three months ended June 30, 2024) | $ | ||||
| 2026 | |||||
| 2027 | |||||
| 2028 | |||||
| 2029 and thereafter | |||||
| Total expected future amortization expense | $ | ||||
NOTE 7. DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES
Universal is exposed to various risks in its worldwide operations and uses derivative financial instruments to manage two specific types of risks – interest rate risk and foreign currency exchange rate risk. Interest rate risk has been managed by entering into interest rate swap agreements, and foreign currency exchange rate risk has been managed by entering into forward and option foreign currency exchange contracts. However, the Company’s policy also permits other types of derivative instruments. In addition, foreign currency exchange rate risk is also managed through strategies that do not involve derivative instruments, such as using local borrowings and other approaches to minimize net monetary positions in non-functional currencies. The disclosures below provide additional information about the Company’s hedging strategies, the derivative instruments used, and the effects of these activities on the consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income and the consolidated balance sheets. In the consolidated statements of cash flows, the cash flows associated with all of these activities are reported in net cash provided by operating activities.
Cash Flow Hedging Strategy for Interest Rate Risk
In December 2022, the Company entered into receive-floating/pay-fixed interest rate swap agreements that were designated and qualify as hedges of the exposure to changes in interest payment cash flows created by fluctuations in variable interest rates on two outstanding non-amortizing bank term loans that were funded as part of a new bank credit facility in December 2022. Although no significant ineffectiveness is expected with this hedging strategy, the effectiveness of the interest rate swaps is evaluated on a quarterly basis. At June 30, 2024, the total notional amount of the interest rate swaps was $310 million, which corresponded to a portion of the aggregate outstanding balance of the term loans.
Previously, the Company had receive-floating/pay-fixed interest rate swap agreements that were designated and qualified as cash flow hedges for two non-amortizing bank loans that were repaid concurrent with closing on the new bank credit facility in December 2022. Those swap agreements, which had an aggregate notional amount of $370 million corresponding to a portion of the principal balance on the repaid loans, were terminated concurrent with the inception of the new swap agreements. The fair value of the previous swap agreements, approximately $11.8 million, was received from the counterparties in December 2022 upon termination and is being amortized from accumulated other comprehensive loss into earnings as a reduction of interest expense through the original maturity dates of those agreements.
Cash Flow Hedging Strategy for Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk Related to Sales of Crop Inputs, Forecast Purchases of Tobacco, and Related Processing Costs
The majority of the tobacco production in most countries outside the United States where Universal operates is sold in export markets at prices denominated in U.S. dollars. However, sales of crop inputs (such as seeds and fertilizers) to farmers, purchases of tobacco from farmers, and most processing costs (such as labor and energy) in those countries are usually denominated in the local currency. Changes in exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and the local currencies where tobacco is grown and processed affect the ultimate U.S. dollar sales of crop inputs and cost of processed tobacco. From time to time, the Company enters into forward and option contracts to buy U.S. dollars and sell the local currency at future dates that coincide with
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the sale of crop inputs to farmers. In the case of forecast purchases of tobacco and the related processing costs, the Company enters into forward and option contracts to sell U.S. dollars and buy the local currency at future dates that coincide with the expected timing of a portion of the tobacco purchases and processing costs. These strategies offset the variability of future U.S. dollar cash flows for sales of crop inputs, tobacco purchases, and processing costs for the foreign currency notional amount hedged. These hedging strategies have been used mainly for tobacco purchases, processing costs, and sales of crop inputs in Brazil, although the Company periodically enters into hedges for a portion of tobacco purchases in Africa.
The aggregate U.S. dollar notional amount of forward and option contracts entered into for these purposes during the three-month periods in fiscal years 2025 and 2024 was as follows:
| Three Months Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||||
| (in millions of dollars) | 2024 | 2023 | ||||||||||||
| Tobacco purchases | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
| Processing costs | ||||||||||||||
Total | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
Fluctuations in exchange rates and in the amount and timing of fixed-price orders from customers for their purchases from individual crop years routinely cause variations in the U.S. dollar notional amount of forward contracts entered into from one year to the next. All contracts related to tobacco purchases and crop input sales were initially designated and qualified as hedges of the future cash flows associated with the forecast purchases of tobacco. As a result, changes in fair values of the forward contracts have been recognized in comprehensive income as they occurred, but only recognized in earnings as a component of cost of goods sold upon sale of the related tobacco to third-party customers. The Company de-designates ineffective tobacco purchases and crop input sales hedges to selling, general, and administrative expense when the forecasted tobacco purchases or crop input sales are no longer expected to occur.
The table below presents the expected timing of when the remaining accumulated other comprehensive gains and losses as of June 30, 2024 for cash flows hedges of tobacco purchases and crop input sales are expected to be recognized in earnings.
| Hedging Program | Crop Year | Geographic Location(s) | Fiscal Year Earnings | ||||||||
| Tobacco purchases | 2023 | Brazil | 2025 | ||||||||
| Tobacco purchases | 2025 | Brazil | 2026 | ||||||||
| Crop input sales | 2024 | Brazil | 2025 | ||||||||
| Crop input sales | 2025 | Brazil | 2026 | ||||||||
Forward contracts related to processing costs have not been designated as hedges, and gains and losses on those contracts have been recognized in earnings on a mark-to-market basis.
Hedging Strategy for Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk Related to Net Local Currency Monetary Assets and Liabilities of Foreign Subsidiaries
Most of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries transact the majority of their sales in U.S. dollars and finance the majority of their operating requirements with U.S. dollar borrowings, and therefore use the U.S. dollar as their functional currency. These subsidiaries normally have certain monetary assets and liabilities on their balance sheets that are denominated in the local currency. Those assets and liabilities can include cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable, advances to farmers and suppliers, deferred income tax assets and liabilities, recoverable value-added taxes, operating lease liabilities, and other items. Net monetary assets and liabilities denominated in the local currency are remeasured into U.S. dollars each reporting period, generating gains and losses that the Company records in earnings as a component of selling, general, and administrative expenses. The level of net monetary assets or liabilities denominated in the local currency normally fluctuates throughout the year based on the operating cycle, but it is most common for monetary assets to exceed monetary liabilities, sometimes by a significant amount. When this situation exists and the local currency weakens against the U.S. dollar, remeasurement losses are generated. Conversely, remeasurement gains are generated on a net monetary asset position when the local currency strengthens against the U.S. dollar. To manage a portion of its exposure to currency remeasurement gains and losses, the Company enters into forward contracts to buy or sell the local currency at future dates coinciding with expected changes in the overall net local currency monetary asset position of the subsidiary. Gains and losses on the forward contracts are recorded in earnings as a component of selling, general, and administrative expenses for each reporting period as they occur, and thus directly offset the related remeasurement losses or gains in the consolidated statements of income for the notional amount hedged. The Company does not designate these contracts as hedges for accounting purposes. The contracts are generally arranged to hedge the subsidiary's
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projected exposure to currency remeasurement risk for specified periods of time, and new contracts are entered as necessary throughout the year to replace previous contracts as they mature. The Company is currently using forward currency contracts to manage its exposure to currency remeasurement risk in Brazil. The total notional amounts of contracts outstanding at June 30, 2024 and 2023, and March 31, 2024, were approximately $75.4 million, $83.0 million, and $20.9 million, respectively. To further mitigate currency remeasurement exposure, the Company’s foreign subsidiaries may utilize short-term local currency financing during certain periods. This strategy, while not involving the use of derivative instruments, is intended to minimize the subsidiary’s net monetary position by financing a portion of the local currency monetary assets with local currency monetary liabilities, thus hedging a portion of the overall position.
Several of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries transact the majority of their sales and finance the majority of their operating requirements in their local currency, and therefore use their respective local currencies as the functional currency for reporting purposes. From time to time, these subsidiaries sell tobacco to customers in transactions that are not denominated in the functional currency. In those situations, the subsidiaries routinely enter into forward exchange contracts to offset currency risk for the period of time that a fixed-price order and the related trade account receivable are outstanding with the customer. The contracts are not designated as hedges for accounting purposes.
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Effect of Derivative Financial Instruments on the Consolidated Statements of Income
The table below outlines the effects of the Company’s use of derivative financial instruments on the consolidated statements of income:
| Three Months Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (in thousands of dollars) | 2024 | 2023 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash Flow Hedges - Interest Rate Swap Agreements | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Derivative | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Effective Portion of Hedge | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gain (loss) recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Gain (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into earnings | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Gain on terminated interest rate swaps amortized from accumulated other comprehensive loss into earnings | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Location of gain (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into earnings | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Ineffective Portion of Hedge | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gain (loss) recognized in earnings | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Location of gain (loss) recognized in earnings | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Hedged Item | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Description of hedged item | Floating rate interest payments on term loans | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash Flow Hedges - Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Derivative | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Effective Portion of Hedge | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gain (loss) recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss | $ | ( | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Gain (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into earnings | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Location of gain (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into earnings | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Ineffective Portion and Early De-designation of Hedges | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gain (loss) recognized in earnings | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Location of gain (loss) recognized in earnings | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Hedged Item | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Description of hedged item | Forecast purchases of tobacco in Brazil | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Derivatives Not Designated as Hedges - Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gain (loss) recognized in earnings | $ | $ | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Location of gain (loss) recognized in earnings | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
For the interest rate swap agreements, the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss and any ineffective portion is recorded in selling, general and administrative expenses.
For the forward foreign currency exchange contracts designated as cash flow hedges of tobacco purchases and the crop input sales in Brazil, a net hedge loss of approximately $5.9 million remained in accumulated other comprehensive loss at June 30, 2024. That balance reflects gains and losses on contracts related to the 2025 and 2023 Brazil crops, and the 2025 and 2024 Brazil crop input sales, less the amounts reclassified to earnings related to tobacco sold through June 30, 2024. Based on the hedging strategy, as the gain or loss is recognized in earnings, it is expected to be offset by a change in the direct cost for the
16
tobacco or by a change in sales prices if the strategy has been mandated by the customer. Generally, margins on the sale of the tobacco will not be significantly affected.
Effect of Derivative Financial Instruments on the Consolidated Balance Sheets
The table below outlines the effects of the Company’s derivative financial instruments on the consolidated balance sheets at June 30, 2024 and 2023, and March 31, 2024:
| Derivatives in a Fair Value Asset Position | Derivatives in a Fair Value Liability Position | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance Sheet Location | Fair Value as of | Balance Sheet Location | Fair Value as of | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (in thousands of dollars) | June 30, 2024 | June 30, 2023 | March 31, 2024 | June 30, 2024 | June 30, 2023 | March 31, 2024 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Interest rate swap agreements | Other non-current assets | $ | $ | $ | Other long-term liabilities | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency exchange contracts | Other current assets | Accounts payable and accrued expenses | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency exchange contracts | Other current assets | $ | $ | $ | Accounts payable and accrued expenses | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Substantially all of the Company's foreign exchange derivative instruments are subject to master netting arrangements whereby the right to offset occurs in the event of default by a participating party. The Company has elected to present these contracts on a gross basis in the consolidated balance sheets.
NOTE 8. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
Universal measures certain financial and nonfinancial assets and liabilities at fair value based on applicable accounting guidance. The financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value include money market funds, trading securities associated with deferred compensation plans, interest rate swap agreements and forward foreign currency exchange contracts. The application of the fair value guidance to nonfinancial assets and liabilities primarily includes the determination of fair values for goodwill and long-lived assets when indicators of potential impairment are present.
Under the accounting guidance, fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The framework for measuring fair value is based on a fair value hierarchy that distinguishes between observable inputs and unobservable inputs. Observable inputs are based on market data obtained from independent sources. Unobservable inputs require the Company to make its own assumptions about the value placed on an asset or liability by market participants because little or no market data exists.
There are three levels within the fair value hierarchy:
| Level | Description | |||||||
| 1 | quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access as of the reporting date; | |||||||
| 2 | quoted prices in active markets for similar assets or liabilities, or quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, or inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability; and | |||||||
| 3 | unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. | |||||||
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As permitted under the accounting guidance, the Company uses net asset value per share ("NAV") as a practical expedient to measure the fair value of its money market funds. The fair values for those funds are presented under the heading "NAV" in the tables that follow in this disclosure. In measuring the fair value of liabilities, the Company considers the risk of non-performance in determining fair value. Universal has not elected to report at fair value any financial instruments or any other assets or liabilities that are not required to be reported at fair value under current accounting guidance.
Recurring Fair Value Measurements
At June 30, 2024 and 2023, and at March 31, 2024, the Company had certain financial assets and financial liabilities that were required to be measured and reported at fair value on a recurring basis. These assets and liabilities are listed in the tables below and are classified based on how their values were determined under the fair value hierarchy or the NAV practical expedient:
| June 30, 2024 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fair Value Hierarchy | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (in thousands of dollars) | NAV | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Assets | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Money market funds | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Trading securities associated with deferred compensation plans | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Interest rate swap agreements | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Foreign currency exchange contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total financial assets measured and reported at fair value | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total financial liabilities measured and reported at fair value | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| June 30, 2023 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fair Value Hierarchy | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (in thousands of dollars) | NAV | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Assets | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Money market funds | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Trading securities associated with deferred compensation plans | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Interest rate swap agreements | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Foreign currency exchange contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total financial assets measured and reported at fair value | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total financial liabilities measured and reported at fair value | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| March 31, 2024 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fair Value Hierarchy | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (in thousands of dollars) | NAV | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Assets | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Money market funds | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Trading securities associated with deferred compensation plans | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Interest rate swap agreements | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Foreign currency exchange contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total financial assets measured and reported at fair value | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Liabilities | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Foreign currency exchange contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total financial liabilities measured and reported at fair value | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Money market funds
The fair value of money market funds, which are reported in cash and cash equivalents in the consolidated balance sheets, is based on NAV, which is the amount at which the funds are redeemable and is used as a practical expedient for fair value. These funds are not classified in the fair value hierarchy, but are disclosed as part of the fair value table above.
Trading securities associated with deferred compensation plans
Trading securities represent mutual fund investments that are matched to employee deferred compensation obligations. These investments are bought and sold as employees defer compensation, receive distributions, or make changes in the funds underlying their accounts. Quoted market prices (Level 1) are used to determine the fair values of the mutual funds.
Interest rate swap agreements
The fair values of interest rate swap agreements are determined based on dealer quotes using a discounted cash flow model matched to the contractual terms of each instrument. Since inputs to the model are observable and significant judgment is not required in determining the fair values, interest rate swaps are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
Foreign currency exchange contracts
The fair values of forward and option foreign currency exchange contracts are also determined based on dealer quotes using a discounted cash flow model matched to the contractual terms of each instrument. Since inputs to the model are observable and significant judgment is not required in determining the fair values, forward and option foreign currency exchange contracts are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
Long-term Debt
The following table summarizes the fair and carrying value of the Company’s long-term debt, and if applicable any current portion, at each of the balance sheet dates June 30, 2024, and 2023 and March 31, 2024:
| (in millions of dollars) | June 30, 2024 | June 30, 2023 | March 31, 2024 | ||||||||||||||
| Fair market value of long term obligations | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||
| Carrying value of long term obligations | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||
The Company estimates the fair value of its long-term debt using Level 2 inputs which are based upon quoted market prices for the same or similar obligations or on calculations that are based on the current interest rates available to the Company for debt of similar terms and maturities.
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Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements
Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis primarily relate to long-lived assets, right-of-use operating lease assets and liabilities, goodwill and intangibles, and other current and noncurrent assets. These assets and liabilities fair values are also evaluated for impairment when potential indicators of impairment exist. Accordingly, the nonrecurring measurement of the fair value of these assets and liabilities are classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
Long-Lived Assets
NOTE 9. PENSION AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT PLANS
The Company sponsors several defined benefit pension plans covering eligible U.S. salaried employees and certain foreign and other employee groups. These plans provide retirement benefits based primarily on employee compensation and years of service. The Company also sponsors defined benefit plans that provide postretirement health and life insurance benefits for eligible U.S. employees attaining specific age and service levels, although postretirement life insurance is no longer provided for active employees.
The components of the Company’s net periodic benefit cost were as follows:
| Pension Benefits | Other Postretirement Benefits | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Three Months Ended June 30, | Three Months Ended June 30, | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (in thousands of dollars) | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Service cost | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Interest cost | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Expected return on plan assets | ( | ( | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net amortization and deferral | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net periodic benefit cost | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||
During the three months ended June 30, 2024, the Company made contributions of approximately $0.2 million to its pension plans. Additional contributions of $2.5 million are expected during the remaining nine months of fiscal year 2025.
NOTE 10. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
The Company's shareholders approved the Universal Corporation 2023 Stock Incentive Plan (“Plan”) under which officers, directors, and employees of the Company may receive grants and awards of common stock, restricted stock, restricted stock units (“RSUs”), performance share units (“PSUs”), stock appreciation rights, incentive stock options, and non-qualified stock options. The Company’s practice is to award grants of stock-based compensation to officers on an annual basis at the first regularly-scheduled meeting of the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors (the “Compensation Committee”) in the fiscal year following the public release of the Company’s financial results for the prior year. The Compensation Committee administers the Company’s Plan consistently, following previously defined guidelines. In recent years, the Compensation Committee has awarded only grants of RSUs and PSUs. Awards of restricted stock, RSUs, and PSUs are currently outstanding.
RSUs awarded prior to fiscal year 2022 vest 5 years after the grant date and those awarded beginning with fiscal year 2022 vest 3 years after the grant date. After vesting RSUs are paid out in shares of common stock. Under the terms of the RSU awards, grantees receive dividend equivalents in the form of additional RSUs that vest and are paid out on the same date as the original RSU grant. The PSUs vest at the end of a performance period of three years that begins with the year of the grant, are paid out in shares of common stock shortly after the vesting date, and do not carry rights to dividends or dividend equivalents prior to vesting. Shares ultimately paid out under PSU grants are dependent on the achievement of predetermined performance measures established by the Compensation Committee and can range from zero to 150 % of the stated award. The Company’s outside directors receive RSUs following the annual meeting of shareholders. RSUs awarded to outside directors vest 1 year after the grant date. Restricted shares vest upon the individual’s retirement from service as a director.
20
During the three-month periods ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, the Company issued the following stock-based awards, representing the regular annual grants to officers and outside directors of the Company:
| Three Months Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||||
| 2024 | 2023 | |||||||||||||
| RSUs: | ||||||||||||||
| Number granted | ||||||||||||||
| Grant date fair value | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
| PSUs: | ||||||||||||||
| Number granted | ||||||||||||||
| Grant date fair value | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
Fair value expense for stock-based compensation is recognized ratably over the period from grant date to the earlier of (1) the vesting date of the award, or (2) the date the grantee is eligible to retire without forfeiting the award. For employees who are already eligible to retire at the date an award is granted, the total fair value of the award is recognized as expense at the date of grant. The Company accounts for forfeitures of stock-based awards as they occur. For the three-month periods ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, the Company recorded total stock-based compensation expense of approximately $4.6 million and $3.9 million, respectively. The Company expects to recognize stock-based compensation expense of approximately $1.6 million during the remaining nine months of fiscal year 2025.
NOTE 11. OPERATING SEGMENTS
The Company conducts operations across two reportable operating segments, Tobacco Operations and Ingredients Operations.
The Tobacco Operations segment activities involve contracting, procuring, processing, packing, storing, and shipping leaf tobacco for sale to, or for the account of, manufacturers of consumer tobacco products throughout the world. Through various operating subsidiaries located in tobacco-growing countries around the world and significant ownership interests in unconsolidated affiliates, the Company processes and/or sells flue-cured and burley tobaccos, dark air-cured tobaccos, and oriental tobaccos. Flue-cured, burley, and oriental tobaccos are used principally in the manufacture of cigarettes, and dark air-cured tobaccos are used mainly in the manufacture of cigars, pipe tobacco, and smokeless tobacco products. Some of these tobacco types are also increasingly used in the manufacture of next generation tobacco products that are intended to provide consumers with an alternative to traditional combustible products. The Tobacco Operations segment also provides physical and chemical product testing for tobacco customers. A substantial portion of the Company’s Tobacco Operations' revenues are derived from sales to a limited number of large, multinational cigarette and cigar manufacturers.
The Ingredients Operations segment provides its customers with a broad variety of plant-based ingredients for both human and pet consumption. The Ingredients Operations segment utilizes a variety of value-added manufacturing processes converting raw materials into a wide spectrum of fruit and vegetable juices, concentrates, dehydrated products, botanical extracts, and flavorings. Customers for the Ingredients Operations segment include large multinational food and beverage companies, smaller independent manufacturers, and retail organizations. FruitSmart, Silva, and Shank's are the primary operations for the Ingredients Operations segment. FruitSmart supplies a broad set of juices, concentrates, pomaces, purees, fruit fibers, seeds, seed powders, and other value-added products to food, beverage, and flavor companies throughout the United States and internationally. Silva procures dehydrated vegetables, fruits, and herbs from around the world and specializes in processing natural materials into custom designed dehydrated vegetable and fruit-based ingredients for a variety of end products. Shank's offers a diversified portfolio of botanical extracts, distillates, natural flavors, and color for industrial and private label customers worldwide, and is known for their significant vanilla expertise. Shank's is also equipped to offer customers custom bottling and packaging for their products.
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The Company currently evaluates the performance of its segments based on operating income after allocated overhead expenses, plus equity in the pretax earnings (loss) of unconsolidated affiliates. Operating results for the Company’s reportable segments for each period presented in the consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income were as follows.
| Three Months Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (in thousands of dollars) | 2024 | 2023 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SALES AND OTHER OPERATING REVENUES | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Tobacco Operations | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Ingredients Operations | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Consolidated sales and other operating revenues | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| OPERATING INCOME (LOSS) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Tobacco Operations | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Ingredients Operations | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Segment operating income | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Deduct: Equity in pretax (earnings) loss of unconsolidated affiliates (1) | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Consolidated operating income | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
(1)Equity in pretax earnings (loss) of unconsolidated affiliates is included in segment operating income (Tobacco Operations), but is reported below consolidated operating income and excluded from that total in the consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.
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NOTE 12. ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
| Three Months Ended June 30, | ||||||||||||||
| (in thousands of dollars) | 2024 | 2023 | ||||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation: | ||||||||||||||
| Balance at beginning of year | $ | ( | $ | ( | ||||||||||
| Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Universal Corporation: | ||||||||||||||
| Net gain (loss) on foreign currency translation | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Less: Net (gain) loss on foreign currency translation attributable to noncontrolling interests | ||||||||||||||
| Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Universal Corporation, net of income taxes | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Balance at end of period | $ | ( | $ | ( | ||||||||||
| Foreign currency hedge: | ||||||||||||||
| Balance at beginning of year | $ | ( | $ | |||||||||||
| Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Universal Corporation: | ||||||||||||||
Net gain (loss) on derivative instruments (net of tax (expense) benefit of $ | ( | |||||||||||||
Reclassification of (gain) loss to earnings (net of tax expense (benefit) of $ | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Universal Corporation, net of income taxes | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Balance at end of period | $ | ( | $ | |||||||||||
| Interest rate hedge: | ||||||||||||||
| Balance at beginning of year | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
| Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Universal Corporation: | ||||||||||||||
Net gain (loss) on derivative instruments (net of tax (expense) benefit of $( | ||||||||||||||
Reclassification of (gain) loss to earnings (net of tax expense (benefit) of $ | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Universal Corporation, net of income taxes | ||||||||||||||
| Balance at end of period | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
| Pension and other postretirement benefit plans: | ||||||||||||||
| Balance at beginning of year | $ | ( | $ | ( | ||||||||||
| Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Universal Corporation: | ||||||||||||||
Amortization included in earnings (net of tax expense (benefit) of $( | ( | |||||||||||||
| Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Universal Corporation, net of income taxes | ( | |||||||||||||
| Balance at end of period | $ | ( | $ | ( | ||||||||||
| Total accumulated other comprehensive loss at end of period | $ | ( | $ | ( | ||||||||||
(1) Gain (loss) on foreign currency cash flow hedges related to forecast purchases of tobacco and crop input sales is reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) to cost of goods sold when the tobacco is sold to customers. See Note 7 for additional information.
(2) Gain (loss) on interest rate cash flow hedges is reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) to interest expense when the related interest payments are made on the underlying debt, or as amortized to interest expense over the period to original maturity for terminated swap agreements. See Note 7 for additional information.
(3) This accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) component is included in the computation of net periodic benefit cost. See Note 9 for additional information.
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NOTE 13. CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY AND NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS IN SUBSIDIARIES
A reconciliation of the changes in Universal Corporation shareholders’ equity and noncontrolling interests in subsidiaries for the three months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023 is as follows:
| Three Months Ended June 30, 2024 | Three Months Ended June 30, 2023 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (in thousands of dollars) | Universal Corporation | Non-controlling Interests | Total | Universal Corporation | Non-controlling Interests | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance at beginning of three-month period | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Changes in common stock | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Accrual of stock-based compensation | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Withholding of shares from stock-based compensation for grantee income taxes | ( | ( | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividend equivalents on RSUs | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Changes in retained earnings | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net income (loss) | ( | ( | ( | ( | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash dividends declared | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Common stock | ( | ( | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividend equivalents on RSUs | ( | ( | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other comprehensive income (loss) | ( | ( | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other changes in noncontrolling interests | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Dividends paid to noncontrolling shareholders | ( | ( | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance at end of period | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
NOTE 14. SUBSEQUENT EVENT
In July 2024, management initiated a restructuring plan to consolidate our European sheet tobacco operations into our facility in the Netherlands. The plan involves the closure of the tobacco sheet operations in Germany in fiscal year 2025. We expect to recognize between a total of $10 million to $15 million of restructuring and impairment costs during fiscal years 2025 and 2026 as a result of the consolidation of operations.
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ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Unless the context otherwise requires, the terms “we,” “our,” “us” or “Universal” or the “Company” refer to Universal Corporation together with its subsidiaries. This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and the following “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Among other things, these statements relate to the Company’s financial condition, results of operation, and future business plans, operations, opportunities, and prospects. In addition, the Company and its representatives may from time to time make written or oral forward-looking statements, including statements contained in other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and in reports to shareholders. These forward-looking statements are generally identified by the use of words such as we “expect,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “could,” “should,” “may,” “plan,” “will,” “predict,” “estimate,” and similar expressions or words of similar import. These forward-looking statements are based upon management’s current knowledge and assumptions about future events and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from any anticipated results, prospects, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: success in pursuing strategic investments or acquisitions and integration of new businesses and the impact of these new businesses on future results; product purchased not meeting quality and quantity requirements; our reliance on a few large customers; our ability to maintain effective information systems and safeguard confidential information; anticipated levels of demand for and supply of our products and services; costs incurred in providing these products and services including increased transportation costs and delays attributed to global supply chain challenges; timing of shipments to customers; higher inflation rates; changes in market structure; government regulation and other stakeholder expectations; economic and political conditions in the countries in which we and our customers operate, including the ongoing impacts from international conflicts; product taxation; industry consolidation and evolution; changes in exchange rates and interest rates; impacts of regulation and litigation on our customers; industry-specific risks related to our plant-based ingredients businesses; exposure to certain regulatory and financial risks related to climate change; changes in estimates and assumptions underlying our critical accounting policies; the promulgation and adoption of new accounting standards; new government regulations and interpretation of existing standards and regulations; and general economic, political, market, and weather conditions. For a further description of factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking statements, see Item 1A, “Risk Factors” of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024. We caution investors not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements as these statements speak only as of the date when made, and we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements made in this report. This Form 10-Q should be read in conjunction with our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024.
Results of Operations
Amounts described as net income (loss) and earnings (loss) per diluted share in the following discussion are attributable to Universal Corporation and exclude earnings related to non-controlling interests in subsidiaries. Any references to adjusted operating income (loss), adjusted net income (loss) attributable to Universal Corporation, adjusted diluted earnings (loss) per share, and the total for segment operating income (loss) are references to non-GAAP financial measures. These measures are not financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP and should not be considered as substitutes for operating income (loss), net income (loss) attributable to Universal Corporation, diluted earnings (loss) per share, cash from operating activities or any other operating or financial performance measure calculated in accordance with GAAP, and may not be comparable to similarly-titled measures reported by other companies. A reconciliation of adjusted operating income (loss) to consolidated operating (income), adjusted net income (loss) attributable to Universal Corporation to consolidated net income (loss) attributable to Universal Corporation and adjusted diluted earnings (loss) per share to diluted earnings (loss) per share are provided in Other Items below to the extent these non-GAAP financial measures are referenced. In addition, we have provided a reconciliation of the total for segment operating income (loss) to consolidated operating income (loss) in Note 11. "Operating Segments" to the consolidated financial statements. Management evaluates the consolidated Company and segment performance excluding certain significant charges or credits. We believe these non-GAAP financial measures, which exclude items that we believe are not indicative of our core operating results, can provide investors with important information that is useful in understanding our business results and trends.
Overview
Universal Corporation is off to a strong start for our fiscal year 2025. For the quarter ended June 30, 2024, revenue was $597.1 million, up by approximately 15% for both our Tobacco and Ingredients Operations segments, while operating income was $17.2 million, up $6.2 million, or 56%, compared to the same quarter last fiscal year.
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Our revenue increase in the Tobacco Operations segment was driven by higher sales volumes and prices. Coming out of an exceptional fiscal year 2024, we benefited from continued strong demand from our tobacco customers. We believe this demand will continue to support solid results for the segment for fiscal year 2025. Our strategic decisions to accelerate tobacco crop purchasing allowed us to secure our contracted tobacco in certain dynamic markets, which has positioned us well to meet customer demand. As in previous fiscal years, we expect that tobacco shipment timing and related revenue recognition will be more heavily weighted towards the second half of our fiscal year 2025.
Our uncommitted tobacco inventory levels at June 30, 2024, remained low at about 13%, and we believe that global leaf tobacco remains in an undersupply position. Looking ahead, we expect that recent elevated green tobacco prices will incentivize farmers to increase planting for the next season, potentially leading to more balanced markets in the coming years. We work closely with our contract farmers to provide guidance and support to promote increased production.
During the quarter ended June 30, 2024, our Ingredients Operations segment also delivered improved performance primarily based on increased sales volumes. New product sales have increased across our ingredients platform, contributing to positive results. These increased sales, combined with general improvement in certain markets and recovery of demand for our core products, drove the 15% increase in sales revenue for the segment as compared to the same quarter last fiscal year.
Test runs and certifications of the processing lines for our Lancaster, Pennsylvania expansion project are progressing well, and the facility is on track to become fully operational in the second half of this fiscal year. Along with the expansion project, we continue to focus on our commercial and research and development teams to enhance the capabilities and specialized products we are able to offer Universal Ingredients’ customers. We continue to expect the project to meaningfully contribute to our Ingredients Operations segment results in fiscal year 2026.
As expected, our debt level remained elevated at June 30, 2024. As our committed tobacco inventories, which represented 87% of total tobacco inventories at June 30, 2024, are processed and delivered to customers, we anticipate working capital to unwind during fiscal year 2025.
Reducing our environmental impacts remains a key business goal for Universal. Setting scope 1, 2 and 3 greenhouse gas emissions targets with the Science Based Target initiative (SBTi) in 2021 and committing to publicly disclosing our progress towards meeting those targets by 2030 are some of the ways we demonstrate our commitment to sustainability. The credibility of our disclosures is contingent on the accuracy of our emissions data and the methods we use to calculate them. We are pleased to announce that we received independent third-party verification of our scope 1 and 2 emissions data, as well as our scope 3 emissions data associated with tobacco purchased through our supply chain, and the methods we use to calculate our emissions. These important milestones reinforce our dedication to the public and transparent disclosure of our progress towards our goals, and the importance of sustainability to Universal.
For over 100 years, Universal has successfully managed our business and generated strong cash flows over time under a wide range of market conditions. We continue to leverage our global footprint to alleviate the impact of localized disruptions, such as adverse weather. Our proactive approach to understanding and responding to the changing world in which we operate and our deep understanding of our customers’ needs will serve us well as we continue our endeavor to deliver consistent results year-over-year.
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| FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Three Months Ended June 30, | Change | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| (in millions of dollars, except per share data) | 2024 | 2023 | $ | % | |||||||||||||||||||
| Consolidated Results | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sales and other operating revenue | $ | 597.1 | $ | 517.7 | $ | 79.3 | 15 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Cost of goods sold | $ | 501.1 | $ | 431.2 | $ | 69.9 | 16 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Gross profit margin percentage | 16.1 | % | 16.7 | % | -60 bps | ||||||||||||||||||
| Selling, general and administrative expenses | $ | 78.7 | $ | 75.5 | $ | 3.2 | 4 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 17.2 | $ | 11.0 | $ | 6.2 | 56 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Diluted earnings (loss) per share | $ | 0.01 | $ | (0.08) | $ | 0.09 | 113 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Segment Results | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Tobacco operations sales and other operating revenues | $ | 512.0 | $ | 443.9 | $ | 68.0 | 15 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Tobacco operations operating income | $ | 14.5 | $ | 8.9 | $ | 5.6 | 63 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ingredients operations sales and other operating revenues | $ | 85.1 | $ | 73.8 | $ | 11.3 | 15 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ingredients operations operating income (loss) | $ | 2.9 | $ | (2.0) | $ | 4.9 | 245 | % | |||||||||||||||
Net income for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, was $0.1 million, or $0.01 per diluted share, compared with a net loss of $(2.1) million, or $(0.08) per diluted share, for the quarter ended June 30, 2023. Net income and diluted earnings per share increased by $2.2 million and $0.09, respectively, for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, compared to the quarter ended June 30, 2023. Operating income for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, was $17.2 million, an increase of $6.2 million, compared to operating income of $11.0 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2023. Consolidated revenues increased by $79.3 million to $597.1 million for the first quarter of fiscal year 2025, compared to first quarter of fiscal year 2024. The increase was largely due to higher tobacco sales prices and volumes as well as increased sales of new ingredients products.
Tobacco Operations
The first fiscal quarter is historically a slow quarter for our tobacco businesses. Revenues for the Tobacco Operations segment were $512.0 million for the first quarter of fiscal year 2025, up $68.0 million or 15%, compared to the first quarter of fiscal year 2024, on higher tobacco sales prices and volumes. Operating income for the Tobacco Operations segment increased by $5.6 million to $14.5 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, compared to the quarter ended June 30, 2023. Tobacco Operations segment operating income was up largely on higher carryover crop shipments as well as higher earnings from our oriental tobacco joint venture. Our operations in several origins saw increased shipments of carryover tobacco in the quarter ended June 30, 2024, compared to the quarter ended June 30, 2023. Results for our oriental joint venture were up in the quarter ended June 30, 2024, on a better product mix as well as favorable foreign currency comparisons, compared to the quarter ended June 30, 2023. Selling, general, and administrative expenses for the Tobacco Operations segment were modestly higher in the first quarter of fiscal year 2025, compared to first quarter of fiscal year 2024, primarily due to unfavorable foreign currency comparisons.
Ingredients Operations
For the Ingredients Operations segment, revenues of $85.1 million and operating income of $2.9 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, were up $11.3 million and $4.9 million, respectively, compared to the quarter ended June 30, 2023. These increases were primarily due to increased sales volumes which included higher sales of new products as well as some increases in sales of core products, notably fruit juices. Accelerated purchasing by certain customers and lower inventory write-downs also increased results for the segment in the first quarter of fiscal year 2025, compared to the same period last fiscal year. Selling, general, and administrative expenses were flat in the quarter ended June 30, 2024, compared to the same period in fiscal year 2024.
Other Items
Cost of goods sold in the quarter ended June 30, 2024, increased by 16% to $501.1 million, compared with the quarter ended June 30, 2023, largely due to higher green tobacco costs. Selling, general, and administrative costs for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, increased by $3.2 million to $78.7 million, compared to the quarter ended June 30, 2023, primarily due to
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unfavorable foreign currency comparisons. Interest expense for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, increased by $5.2 million, compared to the quarter ended June 30, 2023, largely on higher interest rates and higher debt balances resulting from higher green tobacco prices and accelerated tobacco purchases.
For the three months ended June 30, 2024, our consolidated effective income tax rate was 34.7%. For the three months ended June 30, 2023, our consolidated effective income tax rate was 21.6%.
As part of our ongoing efforts to promote efficiency in our operations, we initiated a plan in the second quarter of fiscal year 2025 to consolidate our European sheet tobacco operations into our facility in the Netherlands. As part of this plan, we will wind down our sheet operations in Germany in fiscal year 2025. We believe that this consolidation, which will bring together two operations that are in close proximity to one another, will optimize our sheet operations and generate efficiencies. We expect to recognize between a total of $10 million to $15 million of restructuring and impairment costs during fiscal years 2025 and 2026 as a result of the consolidation of operations.
Sustainability
In 2019, Universal committed to setting science-based goals for reducing our global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Our target of reducing scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions by 30% by 2030 was approved by the Science Based Target initiative (SBTi) in 2021. GHG emissions are inherently difficult to calculate, particularly scope 3 emissions because they are indirect emissions by our supply chain partners that require collection and analysis of data from third parties. We previously received independent third-party verification of our scope 1 and 2 emissions data and how we calculate such data. We are proud to have recently received independent third-party verification related to our scope 3 emissions as well. These important milestones reinforce the credibility of our commitment to reducing our scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions, as well as ensuring the methods and data we use to calculate emissions are accurate and comply with established standards. The need for companies to accurately calculate and disclose their environmental impacts has never been greater, which is why we continue to publicly and transparently share our progress towards meeting our GHG emissions goals each year in our annual Sustainability Report, which is available on our website.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Overview
Our first fiscal quarter is usually a period of significant working capital investment in both Africa and South America as tobacco crops are delivered by farmers. Due to market conditions in Brazil, we made the strategic decision in the quarter ended March 31, 2024, to accelerate tobacco purchases there. Therefore, some of our working capital investments for the Brazil crop that typically would have been made in the quarter ended June 30, 2024, were made in the quarter ended March 31, 2024. We also accelerated some African tobacco crop purchases in the quarter ended June 30, 2024. We funded our working capital needs in the quarter ended June 30, 2024, using a combination of cash on hand, short-term borrowings, customer advances, and operating cash flows. Tobacco sales are expected to be more heavily weighted to the second half of fiscal year 2025.
Our liquidity and operating capital resource requirements are predominantly short term in nature and primarily relate to working capital for tobacco crop purchases. Working capital needs are seasonal within each geographic region. The geographic dispersion and the timing of working capital needs permit us to predict our general level of cash requirements, although tobacco crop sizes, prices paid to farmers, shipment and delivery timing, and currency fluctuations affect requirements each year. Peak working capital requirements are generally reached during the first and second fiscal quarters. Each geographic area follows a cycle of buying, processing, and shipping tobacco to customers, and in many regions, we also provide agricultural materials to farmers during the growing season. The timing of the elements of each cycle is influenced by such factors as local weather conditions and individual customer shipping requirements, which may change the level or the duration of crop financing. Despite a predominance of short-term needs, we maintain a portion of our total debt as long-term to reduce liquidity risk. We also periodically have large cash balances that we utilize to meet our working capital requirements.
Operating Activities
Net cash used by our operations was $62.4 million during the quarter ended June 30, 2024. The net use of cash was $41.4 million less than during the same period in fiscal year 2024, primarily on accelerated tobacco purchases in Brazil in our Tobacco Operations segment in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2024. Tobacco inventory levels increased by $131.8 million from March 31, 2024 levels to $1.2 billion at June 30, 2024, on seasonal leaf purchases. Tobacco inventory levels were $101.6 million above June 30, 2023 levels, primarily on higher green leaf tobacco prices and some accelerated tobacco purchases in Africa. We generally do not purchase material quantities of tobacco on a speculative basis. However, when we contract directly with tobacco farmers, we are often obligated to buy all stalk positions, which may contain less marketable leaf styles. As of June 30, 2024, our
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uncommitted tobacco inventories were $154.8 million, or about 13% of total tobacco inventory, compared to $181.1 million, or about 17% of our tobacco inventory as of March 31, 2024, and $175.2 million, or about 16% of our tobacco inventory as of June 30, 2023. While we target committed inventory levels of 80% or more of total tobacco inventory, the level of these uncommitted inventory percentages is influenced by timing of farmer deliveries of new crops, as well as the receipt of customer orders.
Our balance sheet accounts reflected seasonal patterns in the quarter ended June 30, 2024, on deliveries of tobacco crops by farmers in both South America and Africa. Accounts receivable decreased by $89.3 million from March 31, 2024 levels, as we used collections on receivables to fund seasonal working capital needs. Advances to suppliers were $100.5 million at June 30, 2024, a reduction of $38.6 million from March 31, 2024, as tobacco crops were delivered in payment on some of those balances, net of new advances on upcoming tobacco crops. Accounts receivable—unconsolidated affiliates were up $55.6 million at June 30, 2024, on the timing of tobacco crop purchases and shipments. Notes payable and overdrafts were up $163.9 million from March 31, 2024 levels, on seasonal working capital needs.
Accounts receivable were up $60.4 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, compared to the same quarter in the prior fiscal year, on higher sales of carryover crop tobacco as well as the timing of tobacco crop shipments. Notes payable and overdrafts were up $221.3 million compared to June 30, 2023 levels, in part due to lower customer advances available to fund working capital needs and timing of tobacco crop purchases. Customer advances and deposits were $87.8 million lower at June 30, 2024, compared to June 30, 2023, primarily due to a customer arrangement providing for a higher amount of advances on tobacco crop purchases in fiscal year 2024 that was not repeated in the first quarter of fiscal year 2025.
Investing Activities
Our capital allocation strategy focuses on four strategic priorities: strengthening and investing for growth in our leaf tobacco business; increasing our strong dividend; exploring growth opportunities for our plant-based ingredients platform; and returning excess capital to our shareholders. In deciding where to invest capital resources, we look for opportunities where we believe we can earn an adequate return as well as leverage our assets and expertise or enhance our farmer base. Our capital expenditures are generally limited to those that add value, replace or maintain equipment, increase efficiency, or position us for future growth. During the quarters ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, we invested about $22.7 million and $18.0 million, respectively, in our property, plant and equipment. Depreciation expense was approximately $11.7 million and $11.9 million for the quarters ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Typically, our capital expenditures for maintenance projects are less than $30 million per fiscal year. In addition, from time to time, we undertake projects that require capital expenditures when we identify opportunities to improve efficiencies, invest in sustainability projects, add value for our customers, and position ourselves for future growth. We currently expect to spend approximately $50 to $60 million over the next twelve months on capital projects for maintenance of our facilities and other investments to grow and improve our businesses.
Our Board of Directors approved our current share repurchase program in November 2022. The program authorizes the purchase of up to $100 million of our common stock through November 15, 2024. Under the program, we may purchase shares from time to time on the open market or in privately negotiated transactions at prices not exceeding prevailing market rates. Repurchases of shares under the repurchase program may vary based on management discretion, as well as changes in cash flow generation and availability. During the three months ended June 30, 2024, we did not purchase any shares of common stock. As of June 30, 2024, approximately 24.7 million shares of our common stock were outstanding, and our available authorization under our current share repurchase program was $95.3 million.
Financing Activities
We consider the sum of notes payable and overdrafts, long-term debt (including any current portion), and customer advances and deposits, less cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments on our balance sheet to be our net debt. We also consider our net debt plus shareholders' equity to be our net capitalization. Net debt as a percentage of net capitalization was approximately 44% at June 30, 2024, up from the June 30, 2023 level of approximately 42%, and up from the March 31, 2024 level of approximately 41%. As of June 30, 2024, we had $101.7 million in cash and cash equivalents, our short-term debt totaled $581.1 million, and we were in compliance with all covenants of our debt agreements, which require us to maintain certain levels of tangible net worth and observe restrictions on debt levels.
As of June 30, 2024, we had $330 million available under the committed revolving credit facility that will mature in December 2027, and we had about $41 million in available, uncommitted credit lines. We also maintain an effective,
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undenominated universal shelf registration statement that provides for future issuance of additional debt or equity securities. We have no long-term debt maturing until fiscal year 2028.
Our seasonal working capital requirements for our tobacco business typically increase significantly between March and September and decline after mid-year. Available capital resources from our cash balances, committed credit facility, and uncommitted credit lines exceed our normal working capital needs and currently anticipated capital expenditure requirements over the next twelve months.
Derivatives
From time to time, we use interest rate swap agreements to manage our exposure to changes in interest rates. At June 30, 2024, the fair value of our outstanding interest rate swap agreements was an asset of about $7.9 million, and the notional amount swapped was $310 million. We entered into these agreements to eliminate the variability of cash flows in the interest payments on a portion of our variable-rate term loans. Under the swap agreements we receive variable rate interest and pay fixed rate interest. The swaps are accounted for as cash flow hedges.
We also use derivative instruments from time to time to hedge certain foreign currency exposures, primarily related to forecasted purchases of tobacco, related processing costs, and crop input sales in Brazil, as well as our net monetary balance sheet exposures in local currency there. We generally account for our hedges of forecasted tobacco purchases as cash flow hedges. At June 30, 2024, the fair value of our open hedges for forecasted tobacco purchases was a net liability of approximately $5.5 million. We had forward contracts outstanding that were not designated as hedges, and the fair value of those contracts was a net asset of approximately $1.2 million at June 30, 2024.
Critical Accounting Estimates
A summary of our critical accounting policies is included in Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended March 31, 2024. Our critical accounting policies have not changed from those reported in the 2024 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
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ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Currency
The international leaf tobacco trade generally is conducted in U.S. dollars, thereby limiting foreign exchange risk to that which is related to leaf purchase and production costs, overhead, and income taxes in the source country. We also provide farmer advances that are directly related to leaf purchases and are denominated in the local currency. Any currency gains or losses on those advances are usually offset by decreases or increases in the cost of tobacco, which is priced in the local currency. However, the effect of the offset may not occur until a subsequent quarter or fiscal year. Most of our tobacco operations are accounted for using the U.S. dollar as the functional currency. Because there are no forward foreign exchange markets in many of our major countries of tobacco origin, we often manage our foreign exchange risk by matching funding for inventory purchases with the currency of sale, which is usually the U.S. dollar, and by minimizing our net local currency monetary position in individual countries. We are vulnerable to currency remeasurement gains and losses to the extent that monetary assets and liabilities denominated in local currency do not offset each other. In addition to foreign exchange gains and losses, we are exposed to changes in the cost of tobacco due to changes in the value of the local currency in relation to the U.S. dollar. We routinely enter forward currency exchange contracts to hedge against the effects of currency movements on purchases of tobacco to reduce the volatility of costs. In addition, from time-to-time we enter forward contracts to hedge balance sheet exposures.
In certain tobacco markets that are primarily domestic, we use the local currency as the functional currency. Examples of these markets are Poland and the Philippines. In other markets, such as Western Europe, where export sales have been primarily in local currencies, we also use the local currency as the functional currency. In each case, reported earnings are affected by the translation of the local currency into the U.S. dollar.
Interest Rates
We generally use both fixed and floating interest rate debt to finance our operations. Changes in market interest rates expose us to changes in cash flows for floating rate instruments and to changes in fair value for fixed-rate instruments. We normally maintain a proportion of our debt in both variable and fixed interest rates to manage this exposure, and from time to time we may enter hedge agreements to swap the interest rates. In addition, our customers may pay market rates of interest for inventory purchased on order, which could mitigate a portion of the floating interest rate exposure. We also periodically have large cash balances and may receive deposits from customers, both of which we use to fund seasonal purchases of tobacco, reducing our financing needs. Excluding the portion of our bank term loans that have been converted to fixed-rate borrowings with interest rate swaps, debt carried at variable interest rates was approximately $891 million at June 30, 2024. Although a hypothetical 1% change in short-term interest rates would result in a change in annual interest expense of approximately $8.9 million, that amount would be at least partially mitigated by changes in charges to customers.
Derivatives Policies
Hedging interest rate exposure using swaps and hedging foreign exchange exposure using forward contracts are specifically contemplated to manage risk in keeping with management's policies. We may use derivative instruments, such as swaps, forwards, or futures, which are based directly or indirectly upon interest rates and currencies to manage and reduce the risks inherent in interest rate and currency fluctuations. When we use foreign currency derivatives to mitigate our exposure to exchange rate fluctuations, we may choose not to designate them as hedges for accounting purposes, which may result in the effects of the derivatives being recognized in our earnings in periods different from the items that created the exposure.
We do not utilize derivatives for speculative purposes, and we do not enter into market risk-sensitive instruments for trading purposes. Derivatives are transaction specific so that a specific debt instrument, forecast purchase, contract, or invoice determines the amount, maturity, and other specifics of the hedge. We routinely review counterparty risk as part of our derivative program.
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ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
We maintain disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in reports we file under the Exchange Act,, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including our Chief Executive Officer (our Principal Executive Officer) and Chief Financial Officer (our Principal Financial Officer), as appropriate, to allow for timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
Our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer evaluated, with the participation of other members of management, the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e)), as of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Based on this evaluation, management concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective.
There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during our last fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
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PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Other Legal Matters
Some of our subsidiaries are involved in litigation or legal matters incidental to their business activities. While the outcome of these matters cannot be predicted with certainty, we are vigorously defending them and do not currently expect that any of them will have a material adverse effect on our business or financial position. However, should one or more of these matters be resolved in a manner adverse to our current expectation, the effect on our results of operations for a particular fiscal reporting period could be material.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
As of the date of this report, there are no material changes to the risk factors previously disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended March 31, 2024 (the "2024 Annual Report on Form 10-K"). In evaluating our risks, readers should carefully consider the risk factors discussed in our 2024 Annual Report on Form 10-K, which could materially affect our business, financial condition or operating results, in addition to the other information set forth in this report and in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES, USE OF PROCEEDS, AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY
The following table sets forth repurchased shares of our common stock during the three-month period ended June 30, 2024:
Period (1) | Total Number of Shares Repurchased | Average Price Paid Per Share (2) | Total Number of Shares Repurchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs (3) | Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs (3) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| April 1-30, 2024 | — | $ | — | — | $ | 95,255,674 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| May 1-31, 2024 | — | — | — | 95,255,674 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| June 1-30, 2024 | — | — | — | 95,255,674 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total | — | $ | — | — | $ | 95,255,674 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(1)Repurchases are based on the date the shares were traded. This presentation differs from the consolidated statement of cash flows, where the cost of share repurchases is based on the date the transactions were settled.
(2)Amounts listed for average price paid per share include broker commissions paid in the transactions.
(3)A stock repurchase plan, which was authorized by the Company's Board of Directors, became effective and was publicly announced on November 3, 2022. This stock repurchase plan authorized the purchase of up to $100 million in common and/or preferred stock in open market or privately negotiated transactions through November 15, 2024 or when funds for the program have been exhausted, subject to market conditions and other factors.
Our current dividend policy anticipates the payment of quarterly dividends in the future. However, the declaration and payment of dividends to holders of common stock is at the discretion of the Board of Directors and will be dependent upon our future earnings, financial condition, and capital requirements. Under certain of our credit facilities, we must meet financial covenants relating to minimum tangible net worth and maximum levels of debt. If we were not in compliance with them, these financial covenants could restrict our ability to pay dividends. We were in compliance with all such covenants at June 30, 2024.
ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION
During the three months ended June 30, 2024, none of our directors or officers (as defined in Rule 16a-1(f) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) adop ted or terminated
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On May 30, 2024 , George C. Freeman, III , our President and Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board , adopted a Rule 10b5-1 trading agreement, which is intended to satisfy the affirmative defense of Rule 10b5-1(c). The Rule 10b5-1 trading agreement provides for sales of up to 30,000 shares of our common stock commencing on August 30,2024, until May 30,2025, or once all of the shares have been sold. Actual sales transactions will be disclosed publicly in filings with the SEC in accordance with applicable securities laws, rules and regulations.
ITEM 6. EXHIBITS
| 31.1 | ||||||||
| 31.2 | ||||||||
| 32.1 | ||||||||
| 32.2 | ||||||||
| 101 | Interactive Data File (submitted electronically herewith).* | |||||||
| 101.INS XBRL Instance Document - the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document. 101.SCH XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document 101.CAL XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document 101.DEF XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document 101.LAB XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document 101.PRE XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document In accordance with Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, the XBRL related information in Exhibit 101 to this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q shall not be deemed to be “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Exchange Act, or otherwise subject to the liability of that section and shall not be part of any registration or other document filed under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act, except as shall be expressly set forth by specific reference in such filing. | ||||||||
| 104 | Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101) | |||||||
__________
*Filed herewith
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
UNIVERSAL CORPORATION | |||||||||||
(Registrant) | |||||||||||
| Date: | August 7, 2024 | /s/ Johan C. Kroner | |||||||||
| Johan C. Kroner, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer | |||||||||||
| (Principal Financial Officer) | |||||||||||
| Date: | August 7, 2024 | /s/ Scott J. Bleicher | |||||||||
| Scott J. Bleicher, Vice President and Controller | |||||||||||
| (Principal Accounting Officer) | |||||||||||
35
Exhibit 31.1
CERTIFICATION
I, George C. Freeman, III, certify that:
1.I have reviewed this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Universal Corporation for the period ended June 30, 2024;
2.Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3.Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4.The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
(a)Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
(b)Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
(c)Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
(d)Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of the annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
5.The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
(a)All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
(b)Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.
| Date: | August 7, 2024 | /s/ George C. Freeman, III | ||||||
| George C. Freeman, III | ||||||||
| Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer | ||||||||
| (Principal Executive Officer) | ||||||||
Exhibit 31.2
CERTIFICATION
I, Johan C. Kroner, certify that:
1.I have reviewed this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Universal Corporation for the period ended June 30, 2024;
2.Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3.Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4.The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
(a)Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
(b)Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
(c)Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
(d)Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of the annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
5.The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
(a)All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
(b)Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.
| Date: | August 7, 2024 | /s/ Johan C. Kroner | ||||||
| Johan C. Kroner | ||||||||
| Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer | ||||||||
| (Principal Financial Officer) | ||||||||
Exhibit 32.1
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
In connection with the quarterly report of Universal Corporation (the “Company”) on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2024 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”) and pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, I, George C. Freeman, III, certify, to the best of my knowledge and belief, that:
(1)The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
(2)The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.
| Date: | August 7, 2024 | /s/ George C. Freeman, III | ||||||
| George C. Freeman, III | ||||||||
| Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer | ||||||||
| (Principal Executive Officer) | ||||||||
A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to the Company and will be retained by the Company and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.
Exhibit 32.2
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
In connection with the quarterly report of Universal Corporation (the “Company”) on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2024 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”) and pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, I, Johan C. Kroner, certify, to the best of my knowledge and belief, that:
(1)The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
(2)The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.
| Date: | August 7, 2024 | /s/ Johan C. Kroner | ||||||
| Johan C. Kroner | ||||||||
| Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer | ||||||||
| (Principal Financial Officer) | ||||||||
A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to the Company and will be retained by the Company and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.