Ep. 218: Simpson Manufacturing CEO Mike Olosky, CEO of Simpson Manufacturing (SSD), Fisker, Array Technologies and Digital Ocean.
Aug 11, 2023
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Mike Olosky, CEO of Simpson Manufacturing, shares insights from the company known for high-tech wood connection solutions in construction. He discusses the challenges facing Fisker in the electric vehicle race and the surprising growth of Array Technologies despite lowered forecasts. Olosky emphasizes the importance of customer-centric strategies and technological innovation in construction, revealing how networking can drive industry success. Amidst market fluctuations, he highlights adaptability as crucial for maintaining growth.
Fisker's continuous production target cuts indicate significant operational challenges, raising doubts about its competitive position in the electric vehicle market.
Simpson Manufacturing's success amid industry downturns highlights its customer-centric model and technological innovation, ensuring growth and efficiency in construction supply.
Deep dives
Challenges for Fisker and Production Setbacks
Fisker, once perceived as a strong competitor to Tesla, is facing significant challenges as it continues to struggle with production targets. The company has repeatedly cut its production goals, with the latest quarterly earnings report revealing a third cut in just twelve months. Despite optimistic projections for future margins and a designed focus on producing a more affordable electric vehicle, the inconsistency between production commitments and actual delivery raises doubts about their operational capabilities. The hopeful ambition of ramping up to 6,000 units per month appears daunting, especially given that they have yet to meet even a fraction of that target.
Array Technologies and Revenue Growth Slowdown
Array Technologies has experienced a puzzling situation where its stock surged by 25% despite announcing a revenue target cut of 8%. The company, which specializes in solar energy systems, is dealing with delays in converting booked orders into actual revenue, raising concerns about the reliability of its backlog. With the Biden Administration's Inflation Reduction Act aimed at boosting solar projects, the slowing revenue growth contradicts the expected market boost. Additionally, the company's internal struggles, including multiple executive changes and past financial restatements, complicate the outlook for sustained growth going forward.
Simpson Manufacturing: High Performance Amid Housing Market Volatility
Simpson Manufacturing stands out in the construction supply market by achieving impressive growth despite the industry's downturn. With over a 50% market share in wood connectors, they maintain high gross margins and exceptional service levels, effectively navigating challenges in the housing market. Their customer-centric business model revolves around innovation and timely delivery, allowing them to continue expanding their operations even during economic volatility. The company also embraces technology through software development initiatives to enhance efficiency for customers, positioning itself for future success in the evolving landscape of construction.
Is Fisker (FSR) left as road kill in the electric car race? Why is solar maker Array Technologies (ARRY) seeing its share price soar while cutting growth estimates? And Digital Ocean (DOCN) can’t seem to find the bottom of a turbulent sea of slowing demand. Don't miss our exclusive interview with Mike Olosky, CEO of Simpson Manufacturing (SSD), as he unveils the secret high-tech backbone of today’s construction market. The Drill Down with Cory Johnson offers a weekly look at the business stories behind stocks on the move.