CIE Automotive (CIE) Q1 2026 earnings summary

Executive summary

• Achieved record Q1 2026 results with 10.4% sales growth at constant currency, best-ever EBITDA, and strong net profit, significantly outperforming the global automotive market by over 9 points.

• Maintained robust performance and strong cash generation despite challenging market conditions, currency fluctuations, and a volatile environment.

• Outperformed a flat market through financial discipline, operational excellence, and a solid industrial model.

• Completed the 2021-2025 plan and launched a new phase focused on disciplined execution, selective investment, and sustained value creation.

• Guidance for 2026-2027 reconfirmed: grow above market, maintain profitability, and strengthen financial position.

Financial highlights

• Q1 2026 sales surpassed €1.05 billion; EBITDA reached €201 million (19.1% margin); EBIT €152 million (14.4% margin); net profit €96 million.

• EBITDA-to-operating cash flow conversion exceeded 70%, generating €136 million in operating cash.

• Currency depreciation negatively impacted sales by €60 million, EBITDA by €12 million, and net profit by €6 million.

• Net financial debt stable at €1.04–1.05 billion, leverage ratio at 1.3x EBITDA.

• Liquidity stood at €1,577.9 million at the end of March 2026.

Outlook and guidance

• 2026-2027 guidance targets above-market growth, profitability excellence, sector consolidation, and increased dividends.

• Commitment to defend excellent profit margins and maintain EBITDA-to-FFO conversion ratio of 65%.

• Dividend payout policy set at 42% for 2026 and 50% for 2027.

• Focus on integrating acquisitions and achieving SBTI-validated ESG targets.

• Q2 expected to be solid with good margins and no major disruptions anticipated.