Table of Contents
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 September 28, 2024
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: 1-4119
NUCOR CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware
13-1860817
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
1915 Rexford Road, Charlotte, North Carolina
28211
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)
(704) 366-7000
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class
Trading Symbol(s)
Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, par value $0.40 per share
NUE
New York Stock Exchange
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 ☒ No ☐
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 (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes ☒ No ☐
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 the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer
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. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes ☐ No ☒
234,812,916 shares of the registrant’s common stock were outstanding at September 28, 2024.
Nucor Corporation
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
For the Three Months and Nine Months Ended September 28, 2024
Page
Part I
Financial Information
Item 1
Financial Statements (Unaudited)
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings – Three Months (13 Weeks) and Nine Months (39 Weeks) Ended September 28, 2024 and September 30, 2023
1
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income – Three Months (13 Weeks) and Nine Months (39 Weeks) Ended September 28, 2024 and September 30, 2023
2
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets – September 28, 2024 and December 31, 2023
3
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows – Nine Months (39 Weeks) Ended September 28, 2024 and September 30, 2023
4
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
5
Item 2
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
17
Item 3
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
25
Item 4
Controls and Procedures
27
Part II
Other Information
Legal Proceedings
28
Item 1A
Risk Factors
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
29
Item 5
Item 6
Exhibits
30
Signatures
31
i
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements
Nucor Corporation Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings (Unaudited)
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
Three Months (13 Weeks) Ended
Nine Months (39 Weeks) Ended
September 28, 2024
September 30, 2023
Net sales
$
7,444,160
8,775,734
23,658,415
27,008,970
Costs, expenses and other:
Cost of products sold
6,686,226
6,854,934
20,183,246
20,588,294
Marketing, administrative and other expenses
244,657
385,768
883,132
1,229,051
Equity in (earnings) losses of unconsolidated affiliates
(5,278
)
1,083
(24,079
(3,671
Losses and impairments of assets
123,000
-
137,150
Interest expense (income), net
7,282
(14,133
(32,811
648
7,055,887
7,227,652
21,146,638
21,814,322
Earnings before income taxes and noncontrolling interests
388,273
1,548,082
2,511,777
5,194,648
Provision for income taxes
85,448
326,827
537,847
1,154,689
Net earnings before noncontrolling interests
302,825
1,221,255
1,973,930
4,039,959
Earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests
52,915
79,749
233,962
300,557
Net earnings attributable to Nucor stockholders
249,910
1,141,506
1,739,968
3,739,402
Net earnings per share:
Basic
1.05
4.58
7.23
14.86
Diluted
4.57
7.22
14.83
Average shares outstanding:
236,462
248,504
239,701
250,752
236,768
248,916
239,800
251,179
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
Nucor Corporation Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited)
(In thousands)
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Net unrealized (loss) income on hedging derivatives, net of income taxes of $(1,900) and $(1,500) for the third quarter of 2024 and 2023, respectively, and $(3,600) and $(10,700) for the first nine months of 2024 and 2023, respectively
(6,055
(4,779
(11,171
(33,782
Reclassification adjustment for settlement of hedging derivatives included in net earnings, net of income taxes of $1,800 and $1,100 for the third quarter of 2024 and 2023, respectively, and $6,000 and $3,100 for the first nine months of 2024 and 2023, respectively
5,955
3,579
18,771
9,982
Foreign currency translation gain (loss), net of income taxes of $0 for the third quarter and first nine months of 2024 and 2023
9,505
(18,655
(13,761
12,490
9,405
(19,855
(6,161
(11,310
Comprehensive income
312,230
1,201,400
1,967,769
4,028,649
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests
Comprehensive income attributable to Nucor stockholders
259,315
1,121,651
1,733,807
3,728,092
Nucor Corporation Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited)
December 31, 2023
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
4,262,799
6,383,298
Short-term investments
595,650
747,479
Accounts receivable, net
2,949,190
2,953,311
Inventories, net
5,126,493
5,577,758
Other current assets
587,085
724,012
Total current assets
13,521,217
16,385,858
Property, plant and equipment, net
12,580,243
11,049,767
Restricted cash and cash equivalents
3,494
Goodwill
4,273,610
3,968,847
Other intangible assets, net
3,194,261
3,108,015
Other assets
776,860
824,518
Total assets
34,346,191
35,340,499
LIABILITIES
Current liabilities:
Short-term debt
213,751
119,211
Current portion of long-term debt and finance lease obligations
1,040,380
74,102
Accounts payable
1,902,927
2,020,289
Salaries, wages and related accruals
974,568
1,326,390
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities
1,085,160
1,054,517
Total current liabilities
5,216,786
4,594,509
Long-term debt and finance lease obligations due after one year
5,684,936
6,648,873
Deferred credits and other liabilities
1,887,928
1,973,363
Total liabilities
12,789,650
13,216,745
Commitments and contingencies
EQUITY
Nucor stockholders' equity:
Common stock
152,061
Additional paid-in capital
2,207,928
2,176,243
Retained earnings
30,113,666
28,762,045
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of income taxes
(168,233
(162,072
Treasury stock
(11,832,564
(9,987,643
Total Nucor stockholders' equity
20,472,858
20,940,634
Noncontrolling interests
1,083,683
1,183,120
Total equity
21,556,541
22,123,754
Total liabilities and equity
Nucor Corporation Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)
Operating activities:
Adjustments:
Depreciation
808,791
681,153
Amortization
189,146
175,701
Loss on assets
Stock-based compensation
114,280
101,107
Deferred income taxes
(92,468
(25,750
Distributions from affiliates
7,997
18,621
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates
Changes in assets and liabilities (exclusive of acquisitions and dispositions):
Accounts receivable
46,823
171,621
Inventories
496,048
209,056
(206,730
164,479
Federal income taxes
16,535
240,667
(313,770
(347,026
Other operating activities
91,979
165,692
Cash provided by operating activities
3,245,632
5,591,609
Investing activities:
Capital expenditures
(2,293,859
(1,496,248
Investment in and advances to affiliates
(79
(35,106
Sale of business
1,438
Disposition of plant and equipment
11,834
8,617
Acquisitions (net of cash acquired)
(672,193
Purchases of investments
(1,036,908
(1,200,136
Proceeds from the sale of investments
1,209,944
917,332
Other investing activities
9,607
(35,001
Cash used in investing activities
(2,770,216
(1,840,542
Financing activities:
Net change in short-term debt
94,540
(13,142
Repayment of long-term debt
(5,000
(7,500
Proceeds from exercise of stock options
3,357
10,350
Payment of tax withholdings on certain stock-based compensation
(50,213
(44,456
Distributions to noncontrolling interests
(333,399
(412,404
Cash dividends
(393,837
(387,996
Acquisition of treasury stock
(1,901,574
(1,376,757
Other financing activities
(10,724
(12,437
Cash used in financing activities
(2,596,850
(2,244,342
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
(2,559
837
(Decrease) Increase in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and cash equivalents
(2,123,993
1,507,562
Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and cash equivalents - beginning of year
6,386,792
4,361,220
Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and cash equivalents - end of nine months
5,868,782
Non-cash investing activity:
Change in accrued plant and equipment purchases
70,077
40,126
Nucor Corporation – Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)
1. Basis of Interim Presentation
The information furnished in this Item 1 reflects all adjustments which are, in the opinion of management, necessary to make a fair statement of the results for the interim periods presented and are of a normal and recurring nature unless otherwise noted. The information furnished has not been audited; however, the December 31, 2023 condensed consolidated balance sheet data was derived from audited financial statements but does not include all disclosures required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements included in this Item 1 should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in Nucor’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In November 2023, new accounting guidance was issued that updates reportable segment disclosure requirements by requiring disclosures of significant reportable segment expenses that are regularly provided to the Chief Operating Decision Maker (the “CODM”) and included within each reported measure of a segment's profit or loss. This new guidance also requires disclosure of the title and position of the individual identified as the CODM and an explanation of how the CODM uses the reported measures of a segment’s profit or loss in assessing segment performance and deciding how to allocate resources. The new guidance is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024. The new guidance is required to be applied retrospectively to all prior periods presented in the financial statements. Early adoption is also permitted. This new guidance will likely result in additional required disclosures when adopted. The Company is evaluating the impact that the adoption of this new guidance will have on its consolidated financial statements.
In December 2023, new accounting guidance was issued related to income tax disclosures. The new guidance requires disaggregated information about a reporting entity’s effective tax rate reconciliation as well as additional information on income taxes paid. The new guidance is effective on a prospective basis for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024. Early adoption is also permitted for annual financial statements that have not yet been issued or made available for issuance. This new guidance will likely result in additional required disclosures when adopted. The Company is evaluating the impact that the adoption of this new guidance will have on its consolidated financial statements.
2. Inventories
Inventories consisted of approximately 34% raw materials and supplies and 66% finished and semi-finished products at September 28, 2024 (approximately 37% and 63%, respectively, at December 31, 2023). Nucor’s manufacturing process consists of a continuous, vertically integrated process from which products are sold to customers at various stages throughout the process. Since most steel products can be classified as either finished or semi-finished products, these two categories of inventory are combined.
3. Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment is recorded net of accumulated depreciation of $12.50 billion at September 28, 2024 ($11.79 billion at December 31, 2023).
Included within property, plant and equipment, net, of the steel mills segment at September 28, 2024 is $241.6 million of assets, net of accumulated depreciation, related to our joint venture Nucor-JFE Steel Mexico, S. de R.L. de C.V. (“NJSM”). If NJSM’s financial performance continues to underperform its forecasts, management may determine that a triggering event has occurred and will perform an impairment assessment to determine if the carrying amount of NJSM’s property, plant and equipment, net, exceeds its projected undiscounted cash flows. A future assessment may result in the impairment of part or all of the carrying value of NJSM’s property, plant and equipment, net.
4. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
The change in the net carrying amount of goodwill for the nine months ended September 28, 2024 by segment was as follows (in thousands):
Steel Mills
Steel Products
Raw Materials
Total
Balance at December 31, 2023
675,186
2,514,172
779,489
Acquisitions
316,790
(8,166
308,624
Translation/Other
(3,861
Balance at September 28, 2024
2,827,101
771,323
Nucor completed its most recent annual goodwill impairment testing as of the first day of the fourth quarter of 2023 and concluded that as of such date there was no impairment of goodwill for any of its reporting units.
Intangible assets with estimated useful lives of five to 25 years are amortized on a straight-line or accelerated basis and consisted of the following as of September 28, 2024 and December 31, 2023 (in thousands):
Gross Amount
AccumulatedAmortization
Customer relationships
4,431,078
1,455,570
4,190,156
1,295,778
Trademarks and trade names
387,219
186,217
372,153
168,363
Other
129,151
111,400
109,747
99,900
4,947,448
1,753,187
4,672,056
1,564,041
Intangible asset amortization expense in the third quarter of 2024 and 2023 was $69.3 million and $58.5 million, respectively, and $189.1 million and $175.7 million in the first nine months of 2024 and 2023, respectively. Annual amortization expense is estimated to be $264.1 million in 2024; $252.8 million in 2025; $248.2 million in 2026; $244.8 million in 2027; and $238.4 million in 2028.
5. Current Liabilities
Book overdrafts, included in accounts payable in the condensed consolidated balance sheets, were $153.2 million at September 28, 2024 ($159.0 million at December 31, 2023). Dividends payable, included in accrued expenses and other current liabilities in the condensed consolidated balance sheets, were $128.1 million at September 28, 2024 ($133.6 million at December 31, 2023).
6
6. Fair Value Measurements
The following table summarizes information regarding Nucor’s financial assets and financial liabilities that were measured at fair value as of September 28, 2024 and December 31, 2023 (in thousands). Nucor does not have any non-financial assets or non-financial liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis.
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using
Description
CarryingAmount inCondensedConsolidatedBalanceSheets
Quoted Pricesin ActiveMarkets forIdenticalAssets(Level 1)
SignificantOtherObservableInputs(Level 2)
SignificantUnobservableInputs(Level 3)
As of September 28, 2024
Assets:
Cash equivalents
3,595,175
Derivative contracts
300
57,904
18,825
39,079
4,249,029
4,209,650
Liabilities:
(15,198
As of December 31, 2023
5,724,549
47,020
4,245
42,775
6,522,542
6,479,767
(23,211
Fair value measurements for Nucor’s cash equivalents, short-term investments and restricted cash and cash equivalents and an investment in a publicly traded nuclear power equipment manufacturer are classified under Level 1 because such measurements are based on quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets. Fair value measurements for Nucor’s derivatives, which are typically commodity or foreign exchange contracts, are classified under Level 2 because such measurements are based on published market prices for similar assets or are estimated based on observable inputs such as interest rates, yield curves, credit risks, spot and future commodity prices, and spot and future exchange rates. Fair value measurements for Nucor's investments in privately held companies, most of which are in a nuclear fusion technology company, are classified under Level 3 because such measurements are based on unobservable inputs that indicate a change in fair value, including the transaction price in the event of a change in ownership of the investee (e.g., the sale of other investors' interest in the company) or the transaction price in the event of additional equity issuances of the investee. There were no transfers between levels in the fair value hierarchy for the periods presented.
The fair value of short-term and long-term debt, including current maturities, was approximately $6.38 billion at September 28, 2024 (approximately $6.22 billion at December 31, 2023). The debt fair value estimates are classified under Level 2 because such estimates are based on readily available market prices of our debt at September 28, 2024 and December 31, 2023, or similar debt with the same maturities, ratings and interest rates.
7. Contingencies
We are from time to time a party to various lawsuits, claims and other legal proceedings that arise in the ordinary course of business. With respect to all such lawsuits, claims and proceedings, we record reserves when it is probable a liability has been incurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. We do not believe that any of these proceedings, individually or in the aggregate, would be expected to have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position or cash flows. Nucor maintains liability insurance with self-insurance limits for certain risks.
7
8. Stock-Based Compensation
Stock Options
A summary of activity under Nucor’s stock option plans for the first nine months of 2024 is as follows (shares and aggregate intrinsic value in thousands):
Weighted-
Average
Aggregate
Exercise
Remaining
Intrinsic
Shares
Price
Contractual Life
Value
Number of shares under stock options:
Outstanding at beginning of year
718
78.33
Granted
73
168.85
Exercised
(58
49.94
8,211
Canceled
(3
Outstanding at September 28, 2024
730
89.25
6.8 years
45,774
Stock options exercisable at September 28, 2024
497
64.24
5.9 years
42,722
Compensation expense for stock options was $0.3 million and $0.4 million in the third quarter of 2024 and 2023, respectively, and $4.3 million in the first nine months of each of 2024 and 2023. As of September 28, 2024, unrecognized compensation expense related to stock options was $2.4 million, which we expect to recognize over a weighted-average period of 2.1 years.
Restricted Stock Units
A summary of Nucor’s restricted stock unit (“RSU”) activity for the first nine months of 2024 is as follows (shares in thousands):
Grant DateFair ValuePer Share
Restricted stock units:
Unvested at beginning of year
947
124.89
749
Vested
(632
143.23
(19
149.35
Unvested at September 28, 2024
1,045
144.87
Compensation expense for RSUs was $20.2 million and $14.0 million in the third quarter of 2024 and 2023, respectively, and $87.0 million and $74.7 million in the first nine months of 2024 and 2023, respectively. As of September 28, 2024, unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested RSUs was $120.7 million, which we expect to recognize over a weighted-average period of 1.3 years.
Restricted Stock Awards
A summary of Nucor’s restricted stock activity under the Nucor Corporation Senior Officers Annual Incentive Plan (a supplement to the Nucor Corporation 2014 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan, the “AIP”) and the Nucor Corporation Senior Officers Long-Term Incentive Plan (a supplement to the Nucor Corporation 2014 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan, the “LTIP”) for the first nine months of 2024 is as follows (shares in thousands):
Grant Date
Fair ValuePer Share
Restricted stock units and restricted stock awards:
210
145.55
421
187.54
(367
176.43
264
169.52
8
Compensation expense for common stock and common stock units awarded under the AIP and the LTIP is recorded over the performance measurement and vesting periods based on the anticipated number and market value of shares of common stock and common stock units to be awarded. Compensation expense for anticipated awards based upon Nucor’s financial performance, exclusive of amounts payable in cash, was $4.0 million and $3.1 million in the third quarter of 2024 and 2023, respectively, and $22.9 million and $22.5 million in the first nine months of 2024 and 2023, respectively. As of September 28, 2024, unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested restricted stock awards was $12.1 million, which we expect to recognize over a weighted-average period of 1.8 years.
9. Employee Benefit Plan
Nucor makes contributions to a Profit Sharing and Retirement Savings Plan for qualified employees based on the profitability of the Company. Nucor’s expense for these benefits totaled $39.3 million and $148.6 million in the third quarter of 2024 and 2023, respectively, and $250.9 million and $505.2 million in the first nine months of 2024 and 2023, respectively. The related liability for these benefits is included in salaries, wages and related accruals in the condensed consolidated balance sheets.
10. Interest Expense (Income)
The components of net interest expense (income) for the third quarter and first nine months of 2024 and 2023 are as follows (in thousands):
Interest expense
65,376
63,228
175,715
186,716
Interest income
(58,094
(77,361
(208,526
(186,068
11. Income Taxes
The effective tax rate for the third quarter of 2024 was 22.0% compared to 21.1% for the third quarter of 2023.
The Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”) is currently examining Nucor’s 2015, 2019, and 2020 federal income tax returns. Nucor has concluded U.S. federal income tax matters for the tax years through 2014, and for the tax years 2016 through 2018. The tax years 2021 through 2023 remain open to examination by the IRS. The 2015 through 2021 Canadian income tax returns for Nucor Rebar Fabrication Group Inc. (formerly known as Harris Steel Group Inc.) and certain related affiliates are currently under examination by the Canada Revenue Agency. The tax years 2016 through 2023 remain open to examination by other major taxing jurisdictions to which Nucor is subject (primarily Canada, Trinidad & Tobago, and other state and local jurisdictions).
Non-current deferred tax assets included in other assets in the condensed consolidated balance sheets were $34.0 million at September 28, 2024 ($40.7 million at December 31, 2023). Non-current deferred tax liabilities included in deferred credits and other liabilities in the condensed consolidated balance sheets were $1.25 billion at September 28, 2024 ($1.33 billion at December 31, 2023).
9
12. Stockholders’ Equity
The following tables reflect the changes in stockholders’ equity attributable to Nucor and the noncontrolling interests of Nucor’s joint ventures, Nucor-Yamato Steel Company (Limited Partnership) (“NYS”), California Steel Industries, Inc. (“CSI”) and NJSM - in each of which Nucor owns 51% (the third of which Nucor acquired an additional 1% interest in the fourth quarter of 2023, bringing its total equity ownership to a 51% controlling interest), for the three months and nine months ended September 28, 2024 and September 30, 2023 (in thousands):
Three Months (13 Weeks) Ended September 28, 2024
Accumulated
Additional
Treasury Stock
Nucor
Common Stock
Paid-in
Retained
Comprehensive
(at cost)
Stockholders'
Noncontrolling
Amount
Capital
Earnings
Income (Loss)
Equity
Interests
BALANCES, June 29, 2024
21,772,508
380,154
2,189,371
29,991,834
(177,638
142,816
(11,432,103
20,723,525
1,048,983
Other comprehensive income (loss)
Stock options exercised
Stock option expense
346
Issuance of stock under award plans, net of forfeitures
18,575
15,627
(40
2,948
Amortization of unearned compensation
2,584
Treasury stock acquired and net impact of excise tax
(403,409
2,565
Cash dividends declared
(128,078
(18,215
BALANCES, September 28, 2024
145,341
Nine Months (39 Weeks) Ended September 28, 2024
BALANCES, December 31, 2023
135,252
2,880
(1,570
4,450
4,364
90,865
21,207
(886
69,658
7,684
(1,919,029
11,033
(388,347
10
Three Months (13 Weeks) Ended September 30, 2023
BALANCES, July 1, 2023
20,940,928
2,149,693
27,095,661
(128,972
131,431
(9,314,764
19,953,679
987,249
3,227
(386
(50
3,613
392
16,353
14,337
(28
2,016
1,599
(504,242
2,962
(126,942
(23,633
BALANCES, September 30, 2023
21,509,082
2,165,635
28,110,225
(148,827
134,315
(9,813,377
20,465,717
1,043,365
Nine Months (39 Weeks) Ended September 30, 2023
BALANCES, December 31, 2022
19,569,906
2,143,520
24,754,873
(137,517
126,661
(8,498,243
18,414,694
1,155,212
(2,135
(181
12,485
4,314
76,322
15,072
(917
61,250
4,864
(1,388,869
8,752
(384,050
Dividends declared per share were $0.54 per share in the third quarter of 2024 ($0.51 per share in the third quarter of 2023) and $1.62 per share in the first nine months of 2024 ($1.53 per share in the first nine months of 2023).
On May 11, 2023, the Company announced that its Board of Directors had approved a share repurchase program under which the Company is authorized to repurchase up to $4.00 billion of the Company’s common stock and terminated all previously authorized share repurchase programs. Share repurchases are made from time to time in the open market at prevailing market prices or through private transactions or block trades. The timing and amount of repurchases will depend on market conditions, share price, applicable legal requirements and other factors. The share repurchase authorization is discretionary and has no expiration date. As of September 28, 2024, the Company had approximately $1.42 billion available for share repurchases under the program authorized by the Company’s Board of Directors.
11
13. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
The following tables reflect the changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) by component for the three months and nine months ended September 28, 2024 and September 30, 2023 (in thousands):
Three-Month (13-Week) Period Ended
Gains and (Losses) on
Foreign Currency
Adjustment to Early
Hedging Derivatives
Gains (Losses)
Retiree Medical Plan
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at June 29, 2024
(6,200
(182,441
11,003
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
3,450
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into earnings (1)
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)
(100
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at September 28, 2024
(6,300
(172,936
Nine-Month (39-Week) Period Ended
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, 2023
(13,900
(159,175
(24,932
7,600
12
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at July 1, 2023
3,500
(149,071
16,599
(23,434
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into earnings (2)
(1,200
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at September 30, 2023
2,300
(167,726
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, 2022
26,100
(180,216
(21,292
(23,800
14. Segments
Nucor reports its results in the following segments: steel mills, steel products and raw materials. The steel mills segment includes carbon and alloy steel in sheet, bars, structural and plate; steel trading and rebar distribution businesses; and Nucor’s equity method investment in NuMit LLC (“NuMit”). The steel products segment includes steel joists and joist girders, steel deck, fabricated concrete reinforcing steel, cold finished steel, precision castings, steel fasteners, metal building systems, insulated metal panels, overhead doors, steel grating, tubular products, steel racking, piling products, wire and wire mesh, and utility towers and structures. The raw materials segment includes The David J. Joseph Company and its affiliates (“DJJ”), primarily a scrap broker and processor; Nu-Iron Unlimited and Nucor Steel Louisiana LLC (“Nucor Steel Louisiana”), two facilities that produce direct reduced iron (“DRI”) used by the steel mills; and our natural gas production operations.
Corporate/eliminations include items such as net interest expense (income), charges and credits associated with changes in allowances to eliminate intercompany profit in inventory, profit sharing expense and stock-based compensation. Corporate assets primarily include cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, restricted cash and
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cash equivalents, allowances to eliminate intercompany profit in inventory, deferred income tax assets, federal and state income taxes receivable and investments in and advances to affiliates.
Nucor’s results by segment for the third quarter and first nine months of 2024 and 2023 were as follows (in thousands):
Net sales to external customers:
Steel mills
4,459,509
5,091,479
14,486,492
15,636,508
Steel products
2,496,160
3,235,969
7,715,804
9,954,828
Raw materials
488,491
448,286
1,456,119
1,417,634
Intercompany sales:
983,070
1,201,648
3,405,794
3,726,346
124,159
132,481
416,628
333,099
2,743,191
2,894,079
8,602,394
9,653,600
Corporate/eliminations
(3,850,420
(4,228,208
(12,424,816
(13,713,045
Earnings before income taxes and noncontrolling interests:
309,123
882,614
2,056,689
3,124,549
313,972
806,731
1,266,922
2,788,322
(66,332
71,367
(17,355
267,918
(168,490
(212,630
(794,479
(986,141
Segment assets:
16,122,916
15,407,266
11,516,513
10,914,870
3,406,496
3,546,759
3,300,266
5,471,604
15. Revenue
The following tables disaggregate our revenue by major source for the third quarter and first nine months of 2024 and 2023 (in thousands):
SteelMills
SteelProducts
RawMaterials
Sheet
2,196,380
7,302,649
Bar
1,263,897
3,960,110
Structural
534,931
1,704,945
Plate
464,301
1,518,788
Tubular Products
291,425
1,004,884
Rebar Fabrication
487,093
1,361,759
Joist
274,903
944,227
Deck
242,356
770,423
Building Systems
341,965
1,016,497
Other Steel Products
858,418
2,618,014
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2,351,705
7,100,216
1,448,433
4,646,285
626,633
1,846,892
664,708
2,043,115
370,472
1,246,006
604,684
1,718,615
528,018
1,802,809
411,352
1,370,570
392,658
1,017,706
928,785
2,799,122
Contract liabilities are primarily related to deferred revenue resulting from cash payments received in advance from customers to protect against credit risk. Contract liabilities totaled $207.6 million as of September 28, 2024 ($313.8 million as of December 31, 2023) and are included in accrued expenses and other current liabilities in the condensed consolidated balance sheets.
16. Earnings Per Share
The computations of basic and diluted net earnings per share for the third quarter and first nine months of 2024 and 2023 are as follows (in thousands, except per share amounts):
Basic net earnings per share:
Basic net earnings
Earnings allocated to participating securities
(1,117
(4,501
(7,556
(13,788
Net earnings available to common stockholders
248,793
1,137,005
1,732,412
3,725,614
Basic average shares outstanding
Basic net earnings per share
Diluted net earnings per share:
Diluted net earnings
(4,488
(7,546
(13,747
1,137,018
1,732,422
3,725,655
Diluted average shares outstanding:
Dilutive effect of stock options and other
306
412
99
427
Diluted net earnings per share
The following stock options were excluded from the computation of diluted net earnings per share for the third quarter and first nine months of 2024 and 2023 because their effect would have been anti-dilutive (shares in thousands):
Anti-dilutive stock options:
Weighted-average shares
70
23
Weighted-average exercise price
15
17. Acquisitions
Acquisition of Rytec Corporation
On July 23, 2024, Nucor used cash on hand to acquire the assets of Rytec Corporation ("Rytec") for a purchase price, net of cash and debt acquired, of approximately $565 million. Rytec is a manufacturer and seller of high-performance overhead doors. Rytec produces spiral metal doors for warehouses, manufacturing facilities, auto dealerships, and parking garages, as well as durable fabric doors that are used in cold storage, manufacturing and clean room applications. We believe this acquisition will help Nucor and C.H.I. Overhead Doors, LLC continue to grow their sales to the commercial market. The Rytec financial results are included as part of the steel products segment (see Note 14) beginning on July 23, 2024, the date Nucor acquired Rytec.
We allocated the purchase price for Rytec to its individual assets acquired and liabilities assumed. While the purchase price allocation is substantially complete, it is still preliminary and subject to change.
The following table summarizes the fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed of Rytec as of July 23, 2024, the date of acquisition (in thousands):
Cash
1,263
34,812
Inventory
32,477
1,475
Property, plant and equipment
31,948
274,036
Other intangible assets
215,000
58
Total assets acquired
591,069
16,474
Salary, wages and related accruals
5,003
Other current liabilities
4,261
Total liabilities assumed
25,738
Net assets acquired
565,331
The following table summarizes the purchase price allocation to the identifiable intangible assets of Rytec as of July 23, 2024, the date of acquisition (in thousands, except years):
Average Life
185,000
15 years
16,000
10 years
Other intangibles
14,000
< 1 year
The goodwill of $274.0 million is calculated as the excess of the purchase price over the fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed and has been allocated to the steel products segment (see Note 14). The goodwill is attributable to expected synergies within the steel products segment. Goodwill recognized for tax purposes was $274.0 million, all of which is deductible for tax purposes. Pro-forma results of operations for the Company would not be materially different as a result of the acquisition of Rytec and, therefore, this information is not presented.
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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Certain statements made in this report, or in other public filings, press releases, or other written or oral communications made by Nucor, which are not historical facts are forward-looking statements subject to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties which we expect will or may occur in the future and may impact our business, financial condition and results of operations. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “expect,” “intend,” “project,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “could” and similar expressions are intended to identify those forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect the Company’s best judgment based on current information, and, although we base these statements on circumstances that we believe to be reasonable when made, there can be no assurance that future events will not affect the accuracy of such forward-looking information. As such, the forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, and actual results may vary materially from the projected results and expectations discussed in this report. Factors that might cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: (1) competitive pressure on sales and pricing, including pressure from imports and substitute materials; (2) U.S. and foreign trade policies affecting steel imports or exports; (3) the sensitivity of the results of our operations to general market conditions, and in particular, prevailing market steel prices and changes in the supply and cost of raw materials, including pig iron, iron ore and scrap steel; (4) the availability and cost of electricity and natural gas, which could negatively affect our cost of steel production or result in a delay or cancellation of existing or future drilling within our natural gas drilling programs; (5) critical equipment failures and business interruptions; (6) market demand for steel products, which, in the case of many of our products, is driven by the level of nonresidential construction activity in the United States; (7) impairment in the recorded value of inventory, equity investments, fixed assets, goodwill or other long-lived assets; (8) uncertainties and volatility surrounding the global economy, including excess world capacity for steel production, inflation and interest rate changes; (9) fluctuations in currency conversion rates; (10) significant changes in laws or government regulations affecting environmental compliance, including legislation and regulations that result in greater regulation of greenhouse gas emissions that could increase our energy costs, capital expenditures and operating costs or cause one or more of our permits to be revoked or make it more difficult to obtain permit modifications; (11) the cyclical nature of the steel industry; (12) capital investments and their impact on our performance; (13) our safety performance; (14) our ability to integrate businesses we acquire; (15) the impact of any pandemic or public health situation; and (16) the risks discussed in “Item 1A. Risk Factors” of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and elsewhere in this report.
Caution should be taken not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements included in this report. We assume no obligation to update any forward-looking statements except as may be required by law. In evaluating forward-looking statements, these risks and uncertainties should be considered, together with the other risks described from time to time in our reports and other filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.
The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included elsewhere in this report, as well as the audited consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” and “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” contained in Nucor’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Overview
Nucor and its affiliates manufacture steel and steel products. Nucor also produces DRI for use in its steel mills. Through DJJ, the Company also processes ferrous and nonferrous metals and brokers ferrous and nonferrous metals, pig iron, hot briquetted iron and DRI. Most of Nucor’s operating facilities and customers are located in North America. Nucor’s operations include international trading and sales companies that buy and sell steel and steel products manufactured by the Company and others. Nucor is North America’s largest recycler, using scrap steel as the primary raw material in producing steel and steel products.
Nucor reports its results in the following segments: steel mills, steel products and raw materials. The steel mills segment includes carbon and alloy steel in sheet, bars, structural and plate; steel trading and rebar distribution businesses; and Nucor’s equity method investment in NuMit. The steel products segment includes steel joists and joist girders, steel deck, fabricated concrete reinforcing steel, cold finished steel, precision castings, steel fasteners, metal building systems, insulated metal panels, overhead doors, steel grating, tubular products, steel racking, piling products, wire and wire mesh, and utility towers and structures. The raw materials segment includes DJJ, primarily a scrap broker and processor; Nu-Iron Unlimited and Nucor Steel Louisiana, two facilities that produce DRI used by the steel mills; and our natural gas production operations.
The average utilization rates of all operating facilities in the steel mills, steel products and raw materials segments were approximately 77%, 59% and 73%, respectively, in the first nine months of 2024 compared with approximately 80%, 66% and 74%, respectively, in the first nine months of 2023.
Results of Operations
Nucor reported net earnings attributable to Nucor stockholders of $249.9 million, or $1.05 per diluted share, for the third quarter of 2024, as compared to net earnings attributable to Nucor stockholders of $1.14 billion, or $4.57 per diluted share, for the third quarter of 2023.
Included in the third quarter of 2024 net earnings was $123.0 million of losses and impairments of assets (none in the third quarter of 2023). Of that amount, $83.0 million related to certain non-current assets in the raw materials segment and $40.0 million related to certain non-current assets in the steel products segment.
Excluding the losses and impairments of assets, the largest driver of the decrease in earnings in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the third quarter of 2023 was the decreased earnings of the steel mills segment. Though shipments to outside customers improved slightly in the third quarter of 2024 as compared to the third quarter of 2023, metal margins decreased significantly as average selling prices decreased across all product groups within the steel mills segment. The steel products segment’s earnings in the third quarter of 2024 decreased significantly compared to the third quarter of 2023. The primary driver of the decrease in the earnings of the steel products segment was the decreased earnings of our joist and deck businesses, which had decreased average selling prices and lower volumes. Earnings in the raw materials segment decreased in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the third quarter of 2023, primarily due to the decreased performance of our scrap processing and DRI operations.
Nucor reported net earnings attributable to Nucor stockholders of $1.74 billion, or $7.22 per diluted share, for the first nine months of 2024, as compared to net earnings attributable to Nucor stockholders of $3.74 billion, or $14.83 per diluted share, for the first nine months of 2023. Earnings decreased across all three segments for the first nine months of 2024 as compared to the first nine months of 2023, with the largest decrease in the steel products segment. In the steel products segment, average selling prices for our joist and deck businesses have moderated from historically high levels and steadily declined from the beginning of 2023 through the first nine months of 2024. The decrease in average selling prices, combined with lower volumes for the joist and deck businesses, were the largest contributors to the decrease in the earnings of the steel products segment in the first nine months of 2024 as compared to the first nine months of 2023. The steel mills segment's earnings decreased in the first nine months of 2024 compared to the first nine months of 2023, primarily due to lower metal margins caused by lower average selling prices and decreased volumes. Earnings in the raw materials segment decreased in the first nine months of 2024 compared to the first nine months of 2023, primarily due to the decreased earnings of our scrap processing and DRI operations.
The following discussion provides a greater quantitative and qualitative analysis of Nucor’s performance in the third quarter and first nine months of 2024 as compared to the third quarter and first nine months of 2023.
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Net Sales
Net sales to external customers by segment for the third quarter and first nine months of 2024 and 2023 were as follows (in thousands):
% Change
$4,459,509
$5,091,479
-12%
$14,486,492
$15,636,508
-7%
-23%
-22%
9%
3%
Total net sales to external customers
$7,444,160
$8,775,734
-15%
$23,658,415
$27,008,970
Net sales for the third quarter of 2024 decreased 15% from the third quarter of 2023. Average sales price per ton decreased 15% from $1,406 in the third quarter of 2023 to $1,201 in the third quarter of 2024. Total tons shipped to outside customers in the third quarter of 2024 were approximately 6,196,000 tons, a 1% decrease from the third quarter of 2023.
Net sales for the first nine months of 2024 decreased 12% from the first nine months of 2023. Average sales price per ton decreased 10% from $1,402 in the first nine months of 2023 to $1,265 in the first nine months of 2024. Total tons shipped to outside customers in the first nine months of 2024 were approximately 18,709,000 tons, a 3% decrease from the first nine months of 2023.
In the steel mills segment, sales tons for the third quarter and first nine months of 2024 and 2023 were as follows (in thousands):
Outside steel shipments
4,607
4,578
1%
13,900
14,156
-2%
Inside steel shipments
1,112
1,168
-5%
3,576
3,604
-1%
Total steel shipments
5,719
5,746
17,476
17,760
Net sales for the steel mills segment decreased 12% in the third quarter of 2024 from the third quarter of 2023, due primarily to a 13% decrease in the average sales price per ton, from $1,114 to $967.
Net sales for the steel mills segment decreased 7% in the first nine months of 2024 from the first nine months of 2023, due primarily to a 6% decrease in the average sales price per ton, from $1,105 to $1,042, and a 2% decrease in volumes.
Outside sales tonnage for the steel products segment for the third quarter and first nine months of 2024 and 2023 was as follows (in thousands):
Joist sales
90
127
-29%
292
404
-28%
Deck sales
79
104
-24%
242
310
Rebar fabrication products sales
278
307
-9%
781
918
Tubular products sales
213
223
-4%
635
737
-14%
Building systems sales
60
71
181
185
Other steel products sales
291
309
-6%
919
921
Total steel products sales
1,011
1,141
-11%
3,050
3,475
Net sales for the steel products segment decreased 23% in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the third quarter of 2023, due to an 11% decrease in shipping volumes and a 13% decrease in the average sales price per ton, from $2,837 to $2,469.
19
Net sales for the steel products segment decreased 22% in the first nine months of 2024 compared to the first nine months of 2023, due to a 12% decrease in shipping volumes and a 12% decrease in the average sales price per ton, from $2,865 to $2,530.
Net sales for the raw materials segment increased 9% in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the third quarter of 2023, due to increased tons shipped to outside customers by the scrap brokerage operations of DJJ. In the third quarter of 2024, approximately 93% of outside sales for the raw materials segment were from the scrap brokerage operations of DJJ, and approximately 3% of outside sales were from the scrap processing operations of DJJ (approximately 92% and 4%, respectively, in the third quarter of 2023).
Net sales for the raw materials segment increased 3% in the first nine months of 2024 compared to the first nine months of 2023, due to increased tons shipped to outside customers by the scrap brokerage operations of DJJ. In the first nine months of 2024, approximately 93% of outside sales for the raw materials segment were from the scrap brokerage operations of DJJ, and approximately 4% of outside sales were from the scrap processing operations of DJJ (approximately 93% and 3%, respectively, in the first nine months of 2023).
20
Gross Margins
Nucor recorded gross margins of $757.9 million (10%) in the third quarter of 2024, which was a decrease compared to $1.92 billion (22%) in the third quarter of 2023.
Scrap and scrap substitutes are the most significant element in the total cost of steel production. In the steel mills segment, the average scrap and scrap substitute cost per gross ton used in the third quarter of 2024 was $378, a 9% decrease compared to $415 in the third quarter of 2023. Though scrap and scrap substitute costs decreased in the third quarter of 2024 as compared to the third quarter of 2023, total metal margin dollars decreased as the decrease in average selling prices outpaced the decrease in scrap and scrap substitute costs.
Scrap prices are driven by the global supply and demand for scrap and other iron-based raw materials used to make steel. As we enter the fourth quarter of 2024, scrap prices are comparable to the third quarter of 2024.
Nucor recorded gross margins of $3.48 billion (15%) in the first nine months of 2024, which was a decrease compared to $6.42 billion (24%) in the first nine months of 2023.
21
Marketing, Administrative and Other ExpensesA major component of marketing, administrative and other expenses is profit sharing and other incentive compensation costs. These costs, which are based upon and fluctuate with Nucor’s financial performance, decreased by $119.7 million in the third quarter of 2024 as compared to the third quarter of 2023, and decreased by $285.1 million in the first nine months of 2024 as compared to the first nine months of 2023. These decreases were due to Nucor's decreased profitability in the third quarter and first nine months of 2024 as compared to the respective prior year periods, which resulted in decreased accruals related to profit sharing.
Equity in (Earnings) Losses of Unconsolidated Affiliates
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates was $5.3 million in the third quarter of 2024, and equity in losses of unconsolidated affiliates was $1.1 million in the third quarter of 2023. Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates was $24.1 million and $3.7 million in the first nine months of 2024 and 2023, respectively. The increases in equity method investment earnings were primarily due to the increased results of NuMit.
Losses and Impairments of Assets
Included in the third quarter of 2024 net earnings was $123.0 million of losses and impairments of assets (none in the third quarter of 2023). During the third quarter of 2024, management determined it was probable that a long-term note receivable in the raw materials segment was no longer collectable and recorded an $83.0 million impairment charge to fully reserve the note receivable. The remaining $40.0 million is related to certain non-current assets, mostly property, plant and equipment, net, related to a business in the steel products segment.
Interest Expense (Income)
Net interest expense (income) for the third quarter and first nine months of 2024 and 2023 was as follows (in thousands):
Interest expense increased in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the third quarter of 2023 due to higher average interest rates on debt and an increase in average debt outstanding. Interest expense decreased in the first nine months of 2024 compared to the first nine months of 2023 due to an increase in capitalized interest.
Interest income decreased in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the third quarter of 2023 due to a decrease in average investment levels. Interest income increased in the first nine months of 2024 compared to the first nine months of 2023 primarily due to an increase in average interest rates on cash investments.
Earnings Before Income Taxes and Noncontrolling Interests
The table below presents earnings before income taxes and noncontrolling interests by segment for the third quarter and first nine months of 2024 and 2023 (in thousands). The changes between periods were driven by the quantitative and qualitative factors previously discussed.
22
Noncontrolling Interests
Noncontrolling interests represent the income attributable to the holders of noncontrolling interests in Nucor’s joint ventures, NYS, CSI and NJSM. Nucor owns a 51% controlling interest in each of NYS, CSI and NJSM. The decrease in earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the third quarter of 2023 was primarily due to the decreased earnings of NYS and CSI, and the losses of NJSM in the current year (NJSM was not included in noncontrolling interests until the fourth quarter of 2023, when Nucor obtained a controlling interest). The decrease in earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests in the first nine months of 2024 compared to the first nine months of 2023 was primarily due to the decreased earnings of NYS and CSI, and the losses of NJSM in the current year.
Provision for Income Taxes
The effective tax rate for the third quarter of 2024 was 22.0% compared to 21.1% for the third quarter of 2023. The expected effective tax rate for the full year of 2024 is approximately 21.5%.
We estimate that in the next 12 months our gross unrecognized tax benefits, which totaled $213.8 million at September 28, 2024, exclusive of interest, could decrease by as much as $9.2 million as a result of the expiration of the statute of limitations and the closures of examinations, substantially all of which would impact the effective tax rate.
The IRS is currently examining Nucor’s 2015, 2019 and 2020 federal income tax returns. Nucor has concluded U.S. federal income tax matters for the tax years through 2014, and for the tax years 2016 through 2018. The tax years 2021 through 2023 remain open to examination by the IRS. The 2015 through 2021 Canadian income tax returns for Nucor Rebar Fabrication Group Inc. (formerly known as Harris Steel Group Inc.) and certain related affiliates are currently under examination by the Canada Revenue Agency. The tax years 2016 through 2023 remain open to examination by other major taxing jurisdictions to which Nucor is subject (primarily Canada, Trinidad & Tobago, and other state and local jurisdictions).
Net Earnings Attributable to Nucor Stockholders and Return on Equity
Nucor reported net earnings attributable to Nucor stockholders of $249.9 million, or $1.05 per diluted share, in the third quarter of 2024 as compared to net earnings attributable to Nucor stockholders of $1.14 billion, or $4.57 per diluted share, in the third quarter of 2023. Net earnings attributable to Nucor stockholders as a percentage of net sales were 3.4% and 13.0% in the third quarter of 2024 and 2023, respectively.
Nucor reported net earnings attributable to Nucor stockholders of $1.74 billion, or $7.22 per diluted share, in the first nine months of 2024 as compared to net earnings attributable to Nucor stockholders of $3.74 billion, or $14.83 per diluted share, in the first nine months of 2023. Net earnings attributable to Nucor stockholders as a percentage of net sales were 7.4% and 13.8% in the first nine months of 2024 and 2023, respectively. Annualized return on average stockholders’ equity was 11.2% and 25.6% in the first nine months of 2024 and 2023, respectively.
Outlook
We expect consolidated net earnings attributable to Nucor stockholders in the fourth quarter of 2024 to decrease compared to earnings per diluted share of $1.05 reported for the third quarter of 2024. The largest driver of the expected decrease in earnings in the fourth quarter of 2024 is the expected decrease in earnings of the steel mills segment caused by lower average selling prices and decreased volumes. We expect earnings in the steel products segment to decrease in the fourth quarter of 2024 as compared to the third quarter of 2024 due to lower average selling prices and decreased volumes. The earnings of the raw materials segment are expected to increase in the fourth quarter of 2024 as compared to the third quarter of 2024 (excluding the impairment charge taken during the third quarter of 2024).
Nucor’s largest exposure to market risk is in our steel mills and steel products segments. Our largest single customer in the third quarter of 2024 represented approximately 5% of sales and has consistently paid within terms. In the raw materials segment, we are exposed to price fluctuations related to the purchase of scrap and scrap substitutes, pig iron and iron ore. Businesses within the steel mills segment account for the majority of the raw materials segment’s sales.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
We currently have the highest credit ratings of any steel producer headquartered in North America, with an A- long-term rating from Standard & Poor’s, an A- long-term rating from Fitch Ratings and a Baa1 long-term rating from Moody’s. Our credit ratings are dependent, however, upon a number of factors, both qualitative and quantitative, and are subject to change at any time. The disclosure of our credit ratings is made in order to enhance investors’ understanding of our sources of liquidity and the impact of our credit ratings on our cost of funds.
Our liquidity position as of September 28, 2024 remained strong, consisting of total cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments of $4.86 billion ($7.13 billion as of December 31, 2023). Approximately $899.1 million of the cash and cash equivalents position at September 28, 2024, was held by our majority-owned and controlled subsidiaries as compared to $1.05 billion at December 31, 2023.
Cash provided by operating activities was $3.25 billion in the first nine months of 2024 as compared to $5.59 billion in the first nine months of 2023. The $2.34 billion decrease was primarily driven by net earnings before noncontrolling interests of $1.97 billion for the first nine months of 2024, which represented a decrease of $2.07 billion from net earnings before noncontrolling interests for the prior year period of $4.04 billion. In addition, changes in operating assets and operating liabilities (exclusive of acquisitions and dispositions) provided cash of $130.9 million in the first nine months of 2024 as compared to $604.5 million in the first nine months of 2023.
The funding provided by our working capital in the first nine months of 2024 decreased by $473.6 million compared to the first nine months of 2023 mainly due to the change in accounts payable using $371.2 million more cash, federal income taxes providing less cash of $224.1 million and the change in accounts receivable providing $124.8 million less cash compared to the same period in 2023. These changes were partially offset by the change in inventories providing more cash of $287.0 million.
The current ratio was 2.6 at the end of the third quarter of 2024 and 3.6 at year-end 2023. The decrease in the current ratio at the end of the third quarter of 2024 compared to year-end 2023 was primarily due to the $2.86 billion, or 17%, decrease in current assets. The main driver of the decrease in current assets was the $2.12 billion, or 33% decrease in cash and cash equivalents. Also contributing to the decrease in the current ratio was the $622.3 million, or 14%, increase in current liabilities. The increase in current liabilities was primarily due to the $966.3 million increase in the current portion of long-term debt and finance lease obligations and the $94.5 million increase in short-term debt. These changes were offset by the $117.4 million decrease in accounts payable and the $351.8 million decrease in salaries, wages and related accruals.
Cash used in investing activities in the first nine months of 2024 was $2.77 billion as compared to $1.84 billion in the first nine months of 2023, an increase of $929.7 million. Cash used for capital expenditures of $2.29 billion in the first nine months of 2024 increased by $797.6 million as compared to the same period of 2023 primarily due to the sheet mill under construction in West Virginia, the sheet mill expansion in Indiana and the rebar micro mill under construction in North Carolina. Capital expenditures for 2024 are estimated to be approximately $3.2 billion as compared to $2.20 billion for 2023. The projects that we anticipate will have the largest capital expenditures in 2024 are the sheet mill under construction in West Virginia, the sheet mill expansion in Indiana, the rebar micro mill under construction in North Carolina and the construction of two manufacturing locations to expand Nucor Towers & Structures. Also contributing to the increase in cash used in investing activities in the first nine months of 2024 over the same period of 2023 was the acquisition (net of cash acquired) of Rytec for approximately $565.0 million during the third quarter of 2024.
Cash used in financing activities in the first nine months of 2024 was $2.60 billion as compared to $2.24 billion in the first nine months of 2023. The primary uses of cash were stock repurchases of $1.90 billion in the first nine months of 2024 as compared to $1.38 billion in the first nine months of 2023, which represented an increase of $524.8 million. Partially offsetting the increase in stock repurchases was the $79.0 million decrease in distributions to noncontrolling interests in the first nine months of 2024 as compared to the first nine months of 2023.
Nucor’s $1.75 billion revolving credit facility matures on November 5, 2026. The revolving credit facility includes only one financial covenant, which is a limit of 60% on the ratio of funded debt to total capital. In addition, the revolving credit facility contains customary non-financial covenants, including a limit on Nucor’s ability to pledge the Company’s assets and a limit on consolidations, mergers and sales of assets. As of September 28, 2024, the funded debt to total capital ratio was 24.4% and we were in compliance with all non-financial covenants under the revolving credit facility. No borrowings were outstanding under the revolving credit facility as of September 28, 2024.
24
In September 2024, Nucor’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend on Nucor’s common stock of $0.54 per share payable on November 8, 2024 to stockholders of record on September 27, 2024. This dividend is Nucor’s 206th consecutive quarterly cash dividend.
Funds provided from operations, cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments and new borrowings under our existing credit facilities are expected to be adequate to meet future capital expenditure and working capital requirements for existing operations for at least the next 24 months. We also believe we have adequate access to capital markets for liquidity purposes.
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
In the ordinary course of business, Nucor is exposed to a variety of market risks. We continually monitor these risks and develop strategies to manage them.
Interest Rate Risk
Nucor manages interest rate risk by using a combination of variable-rate and fixed-rate debt. Nucor also occasionally makes use of interest rate swaps to manage net exposure to interest rate changes. Management does not believe that Nucor’s exposure to interest rate risk has significantly changed since December 31, 2023. There were no interest rate swaps outstanding at September 28, 2024.
Commodity Price Risk
In the ordinary course of business, Nucor is exposed to market risk for price fluctuations of raw materials and energy, principally scrap steel, other ferrous and nonferrous metals, alloys and natural gas. We attempt to negotiate the best prices for our raw material and energy requirements and to obtain prices for our steel products that match market price movements in response to supply and demand. In periods of strong or stable demand for our products, we are more likely to be able to effectively reduce the normal time lag in passing through higher raw material costs so that we can maintain our gross margins. When demand for our products is weaker, this becomes more challenging. Our DRI facilities in Trinidad and Louisiana provide us with flexibility in managing our raw material requirements and our input costs. DRI is particularly important for operational flexibility when demand for prime scrap increases due to increased domestic steel production.
Natural gas produced by Nucor’s production operations is being sold to third parties to partially offset our exposure to changes in the price of natural gas consumed by our Louisiana DRI facility and our steel mills in the United States.
Nucor also periodically uses derivative financial instruments to hedge a portion of our exposure to price risk related to natural gas purchases used in the production process and to hedge a portion of our steel, scrap, aluminum and copper purchases and sales. Gains and losses from derivatives designated as hedges are deferred in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of income taxes in the condensed consolidated balance sheets and recognized in net earnings in the same period as the underlying physical transaction. At September 28, 2024, accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of income taxes included $6.3 million in unrealized net-of-tax losses for the fair value of these derivative instruments. Changes in the fair values of derivatives not designated as hedges are recognized in net earnings each period.
The following table presents the negative effect on pre-tax earnings of a hypothetical change in the fair value of the derivative instruments outstanding at September 28, 2024, due to an assumed 10% and 25% change in the market price of each of the indicated commodities (in thousands):
Commodity Derivative
10% Change
25% Change
Natural gas
12,914
32,286
Other commodities
12,402
30,979
Any resulting changes in fair value would be recorded as adjustments to accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of income taxes or recognized in net earnings, as appropriate. These hypothetical losses would be partially offset by the benefit of lower prices paid or higher prices received for the physical commodities.
Foreign Currency Risk
Nucor is exposed to foreign currency risk primarily through its operations in Canada, Europe and Mexico. We periodically use derivative contracts to mitigate the risk of currency fluctuations. Open foreign currency derivative contracts at September 28, 2024 were insignificant.
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Item 4. Controls and Procedures
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
As of the end of the period covered by this report, the Company carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the evaluation date.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended September 28, 2024 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
Nucor is from time to time a party to various lawsuits, claims and other legal proceedings that arise in the ordinary course of business. With respect to all such lawsuits, claims and proceedings, we record reserves when it is probable a liability has been incurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. We do not believe that any of these proceedings, individually or in the aggregate, would be expected to have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position or cash flows. Nucor maintains liability insurance with self-insurance limits for certain risks.
During 2022, Nucor Steel Louisiana, our DRI facility located in St. James Parish, Louisiana, received allegations of violations of the Clean Air Act from the United States Environmental Protection Agency. A combined settlement is currently being negotiated with the United States Department of Justice, the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality. We do not believe that any aggregate settlement for these allegations will be material to Nucor.
There were no other proceedings that were pending or contemplated under federal, state or local environmental laws that the Company reasonably believes may result in monetary sanctions of at least $1.0 million (the threshold chosen by Nucor as permitted by Item 103 of Regulation S-K promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), and which Nucor believes is reasonably designed to result in disclosure of any such proceeding that is material to its business or financial condition).
Item 1A. Risk Factors
There have been no material changes in Nucor’s risk factors from those included in “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in Nucor’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
Our share repurchase program activity for each of the three months and the quarter ended September 28, 2024 was as follows (in thousands, except per share amounts):
TotalNumberof SharesPurchased
AveragePrice Paidper Share (1)
Total Number ofShares Purchasedas Part of PubliclyAnnounced Plansor Programs (2)
ApproximateDollar Value ofShares thatMay Yet BePurchasedUnder thePlans orPrograms (2)
June 30, 2024 - July 27, 2024
1,460
158.61
1,589,993
July 28, 2024 - August 24, 2024
1,105
152.71
1,421,191
August 25, 2024 - September 28, 2024
For the Quarter Ended September 28, 2024
Item 5. Other Information
Insider Trading Arrangements
During the quarter ended September 28, 2024, none of our directors or officers (as defined in Rule 16a-1(f) under the Exchange Act) adopted, modified or terminated a "Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement" or a "non-Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement" (as such terms are defined in Item 408 of Regulation S-K).
Item 6. Exhibits
Exhibit No.
Description of Exhibit
Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Nucor Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed September 14, 2010 (File No. 001-04119))
3.1
Bylaws of Nucor Corporation, as amended and restated February 22, 2021 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed February 24, 2021 (File No. 001-04119))
31*
Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a), as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
31.1*
Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a), as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32**
Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.1**
Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
101*
Financial Statements (Unaudited) from the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Nucor Corporation for the quarter ended September 28, 2024, filed November 6, 2024, formatted in Inline XBRL: (i) the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings, (ii) the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, (iii) the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, (iv) the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows and (v) the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
104*
Cover Page from the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Nucor Corporation for the quarter ended September 28, 2024, filed November 6, 2024, formatted in Inline XBRL (included in Exhibit 101 above).
* Filed herewith.
** Furnished (and not filed) herewith pursuant to Item 601(b)(32)(ii) of Regulation S-K.
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.
By:
/s/ Stephen D. Laxton
Stephen D. Laxton
Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and
Executive Vice President
Dated: November 6, 2024