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    Anton Gvozdikov

    Director and Senior Equity Analyst at Stifel

    Anton Gvozdikov is a Director and Senior Equity Analyst at Stifel, specializing in the coverage of diversified industrials and the environmental services sector, with a focus on companies such as Republic Services, Waste Management, and GFL Environmental. He is recognized for his detailed research and investment insights, having achieved above-market accuracy ratings and a high success rate of over 60% on his stock recommendations according to analyst ranking platforms. Gvozdikov began his equity research career after earning advanced degrees in engineering and finance, and has been with Stifel since 2018, previously working at GCA Advisors and pursuing roles in investment banking and corporate finance. He holds FINRA Series 7, 63, and 86/87 licenses, and has been praised for his in-depth sector knowledge and professional rigor in investment analysis.

    Anton Gvozdikov's questions to AVANOS MEDICAL (AVNS) leadership

    Anton Gvozdikov's questions to AVANOS MEDICAL (AVNS) leadership • Q4 2024

    Question

    Anton Gvozdikov questioned the rationale behind the forecasted pause in margin improvement for 2025, asking if it was conservatism given ongoing transformation efforts and strong performance in key product lines like NeoMed and Trident. He also inquired about the strategic direction for the Hyaluronic Acid (HA) business, noting the recent impairment charge and whether it created more urgency for a decision.

    Answer

    Interim CEO Michael Greiner explained that the 2025 margin pause is primarily due to a significant shortfall in high-margin HA revenue compared to original transformation plans, which offset cost-saving achievements. He acknowledged the guidance contains some conservatism due to macroeconomic uncertainty but expects to reignite margin expansion in 2026. Regarding the HA business, Greiner confirmed its performance drove the impairment charge and that it will be de-emphasized and managed for cash optimization within the new 'Corporate and Other' segment due to persistent pricing pressures.

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