David Macgregor's questions to TWIN DISC (TWIN) leadership • Q4 2025
Question
David MacGregor of Longbow Research asked for details on the drivers of the strong $150.5M backlog, the growth strategy for the defense sector, and commercial synergies from recent acquisitions. He also inquired about a potential margin inflection point, the sustainability of ME&A spending, the fiscal 2026 outlook for the balance sheet and free cash flow, and whether the company would prioritize integration over new M&A.
Answer
CEO John Batten and CFO Jeff Knudson explained that backlog strength is broad-based, with significant contributions from defense, marine propulsion, and pleasure craft. Batten highlighted that defense growth is driven by both U.S. Navy programs and NATO land-based vehicles via the Katsa acquisition, with a focus on expanding capacity to meet demand. He confirmed the company is at a margin inflection point due to supply chain normalization, sourcing efficiencies, and product discipline. Knudson noted that current ME&A spending can support revenue well north of $400M and that the company aims to lower leverage to enable future bolt-on acquisitions, which can be pursued concurrently with integration efforts.