Key takeaways
View moreGE Aerospace appears moderately undervalued based on its attractive EV/EBITDA and EV/Sales ratios compared to industry averages, strong financial performance (high ROE and improving margins), and significant growth opportunities in sustainable aviation technologies. While the high P/E ratio suggests high growth expectations, the company's strong market position, improving operational efficiency, and potential for margin expansion support a positive outlook.
- GE Aerospace has demonstrated strong financial performance, exceeding expectations with double-digit revenue growth and increased free cash flow, as highlighted in the 2024 Q4 earnings report.
- The company's focus on operational efficiency, driven by the FLIGHT DECK model, is contributing to improved profit margins, with CES margins reaching 28.2% in Q4 2024.
- GE Aerospace is committed to returning capital to shareholders, with plans to increase share repurchases to $7 billion and raise its dividend by 30%, as announced in the 2024 Q4 earnings report.
- Supply chain constraints remain a key challenge, but management is actively addressing them, with improvements noted in material inputs from priority suppliers, according to the 2024 Q4 earnings report.
- GE Aerospace has significantly outperformed the Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK) and peers like Lockheed Martin and RTX Corp. over the 2-year and 3-year periods, demonstrating strong historical performance.
- The company's Enterprise Value to EBITDA and Enterprise Value to Sales ratios are lower than industry averages, suggesting potential undervaluation.
- Ongoing legal matters and macroeconomic volatility pose risks that require close monitoring, as detailed in the SEC filings.
- GE Aerospace's positive guidance for 2025, projecting low double-digit revenue growth and increased EPS, reflects confidence in its future prospects, as stated in the 2024 Q4 earnings report.
Evaluation summary
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Company Overview:
- GE Aerospace is an American aircraft company providing jet and turboprop engines and integrated systems for commercial, military, business, and general aviation aircraft. Its brand portfolio includes Avio Aero, Unison, GE Additive, and Dowty Propellers.
- The company operates through two segments: Commercial Engines & Services (CES), which designs, develops, manufactures, and services jet engines for commercial airframes, business aviation, and aeroderivative applications; and Defense & Propulsion Technologies (DPT), which offers defense engines and critical aircraft systems. The aftermarket services business represents approximately 70% of revenues.
- Benchmarks used for comparative analysis include the Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK). Peers include Lockheed Martin Corp. (LMT) and RTX Corp. (RTX).
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Financial Performance:
- GE Aerospace has demonstrated strong financial performance in recent quarters. In the quarter ending December 31, 2024, the company reported revenues of $10.812 billion and net income of $1.905 billion.
- Revenue has fluctuated, with $16.052 billion in Q1 2024, decreasing to $9.094 billion in Q2 2024, then increasing to $9.842 billion in Q3 2024, and $10.812 billion in Q4 2024.
- Net income has also varied, from $1.523 billion in Q1 2024 to $1.320 billion in Q2 2024, then increasing to $1.705 billion in Q3 2024, and $1.905 billion in Q4 2024.
- Gross profit margin was 37.45% for the quarter ending December 31, 2024, compared to an industry average of -376.99%. Net profit margin was 17.62%, significantly higher than the industry average of -5141.14%. EBITDA margin was 22.05%, also substantially above the industry average of -6038.99%.
- Return on Average Assets (ROA) was 4.47%, Return on Average Total Equity (ROE) was 27.62%, and Return on Average Invested Capital was 14.93%. These figures are significantly higher than the industry averages of -7.25%, -31.90%, and -20.68%, respectively.
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Operational Efficiency:
- Total current assets decreased from $59.589 billion in Q1 2024 to $37.635 billion in Q4 2024. Total current liabilities decreased from $51.087 billion in Q1 2024 to $34.392 billion in Q4 2024.
- Working capital decreased from $8.502 billion in Q1 2024 to $3.243 billion in Q4 2024.
- Net operating cash flow was $1.297 billion for the quarter ending December 31, 2024. Free cash flow to equity was $1.030 billion.
- Total capital expenditure was $267 million for the quarter ending December 31, 2024. Depreciation, depletion, and amortization were $298 million.
- Cash dividends paid were $306 million for the quarter ending December 31, 2024. The company also announced a new $15 billion share repurchase program in 2024.
- The current ratio was 1.09, lower than the industry average of 3.39. The quick ratio was 0.81, also lower than the industry average of 2.52.
- Total debt to total equity ratio was 105.36%, close to the industry average of 112.67%. Debt / EBITDA was 2.45, significantly lower than the industry average of 8.52.
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Growth Opportunities:
- GE Aerospace is focused on developing sustainable aviation technologies, including the RISE program.
- The company is investing in internal MRO facilities, with investments exceeding $1 billion over the next five years.
- The acquisition of Northstar Aerospace strengthens the company's capabilities in manufacturing mission-critical parts.
- The company is focused on expanding LEAP aftermarket capacity and strengthening its third-party MRO network.
- Management highlighted progress on key technology initiatives, including the RISE open-fan engine program and a successful demonstration of a 1-megawatt hybrid electric propulsion system.
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Recent Developments and Market Sentiment:
- GE Aerospace delivered exceptional financial results in 2024, exceeding expectations and setting a strong foundation for continued growth in 2025. The company's positive guidance reflects confidence in its ability to navigate challenges and capitalize on market opportunities.
- The company benefits from strong demand in both commercial and defense sectors, providing a diversified revenue stream and mitigating risks associated with reliance on a single market.
- The company plans to increase share repurchases to $7 billion and raise its dividend by 30%, demonstrating a commitment to shareholder returns.
- The overall market sentiment is positive, driven by strong financial results and optimistic guidance.
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Risks and Threats:
- Macroeconomic and market volatility, including recession risks, inflation, and supply chain disruptions, pose significant risks.
- The cyclical nature of the commercial aviation sector and dependence on key customers/partners are also risks.
- Competitive threats from new technologies and market entrants exist.
- Operational execution challenges in launching/ramping new product platforms are a concern.
- Cybersecurity threats and data privacy/security compliance risks are present.
- Ongoing shareholder lawsuits related to historical accounting and disclosure practices, as well as litigation in Poland related to Bank BPH's foreign currency mortgage portfolio, pose legal risks.
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Valuation Analysis:
- Enterprise Value to EBITDA was 23.60 for the quarter ending December 31, 2024, compared to an industry average of 39.36. Enterprise Value to Sales was 4.08, compared to an industry average of 44.70.
- These metrics suggest that GE Aerospace may be undervalued compared to its industry peers.
- Potential catalysts include continued strong financial performance, successful execution of strategic initiatives, and resolution of ongoing legal matters.
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Price Performance:
- The stock price has fluctuated between approximately $166 and $212 from April 2025 to April 2025.
- GE Aerospace has significantly outperformed the Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK) over the 1-year, 2-year, and 3-year periods. For example, over the past three years, GE Aerospace has returned 247.21% compared to XLK's 40.71%.
- GE Aerospace has also shown significant outperformance compared to Lockheed Martin and RTX Corp. over the 2-year and 3-year periods.
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Future Outlook:
- GE Aerospace provided positive guidance for 2025, projecting mid-single-digit departures growth and low double-digit revenue growth.
- Profit is expected to be in the range of $7.8 billion to $8.2 billion, and EPS is projected to be $5.10 to $5.45, representing a 15% increase at the midpoint.
- Free cash flow is expected to reach $6.3 billion to $6.8 billion, with conversion remaining above 100%.
- Management expressed strong confidence in the company's performance and future prospects.
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Summary:
- GE Aerospace is a strong company with a focused business model, solid financial performance, and significant growth opportunities.
- Strengths include strong profitability, a commitment to operational efficiency, and a focus on returning capital to shareholders. Weaknesses include potential challenges in managing short-term liquidity and ongoing legal matters. Opportunities include expanding into new markets, developing sustainable aviation technologies, and strategic acquisitions. Threats include macroeconomic volatility, supply chain disruptions, and competitive pressures.
- The company's financial health is generally strong, with improving profitability and decreasing debt levels.
- Critical factors for future performance include successful execution of strategic initiatives, continued improvement in supply chain management, and resolution of ongoing legal matters.
- Areas requiring further monitoring include short-term liquidity management, macroeconomic conditions, and competitive landscape.
- Overall, GE Aerospace presents a compelling investment profile, with strong growth potential balanced against identified risks. The company's valuation appears reasonable compared to industry averages, and potential catalysts could drive further appreciation.
Price history
Fundamentals
Insights
- GE Aerospace is a profitable company with a strong track record of generating cash flow.
- The company's profitability is improving, driven by cost control and operational efficiencies.
- The company's liquidity position is generally strong, but it may be facing some challenges in managing its short-term liquidity.
- The company's long-term solvency is strong, as evidenced by its decreasing debt levels and increasing levels of total capital.
- The company's focus on long-term growth and its disciplined capital allocation strategy are strengths.
- The company faces significant risks from macroeconomic volatility, supply chain challenges, and the cyclical nature of the commercial aviation industry.
- The company's future outlook is positive, driven by its strong profitability, its focus on operational efficiency, and its commitment to returning capital to shareholders.
Analysis
- Revenue
- GE Aerospace's revenue has been declining in recent quarters, which is likely due to factors such as supply chain constraints, inflation, and changes in customer demand.
- The company's revenue growth has been decelerating over the past 5 years, with a 5-year CAGR of -15.41%.
- Despite the recent revenue decline, the company's revenue is still significantly higher than the industry average.
- The company's management has highlighted the impact of supply chain constraints on its revenue performance.
- The company's forward guidance suggests that it expects to continue to grow revenue in the future, driven by strong demand in both commercial and defense sectors.
- Profitability
- GE Aerospace's profitability has been improving in recent quarters, as evidenced by the increasing gross margin, operating margin, and net margin.
- The company's profitability is significantly higher than the industry average, as evidenced by its ROA, ROE, ROTC, and ROIC.
- The company's focus on operational efficiency and cost management is driving its profitability improvement.
- The company's strategic initiatives, such as the implementation of FLIGHT DECK and the formation of a new Technology & Operations organization, are expected to further enhance its operational efficiency and profitability.
- Liquidity
- GE Aerospace's liquidity position is generally strong, as evidenced by the decreasing levels of short-term debt and the increasing levels of cash and short-term investments.
- However, the decreasing levels of working capital and the decreasing current ratio suggest that the company may be facing some challenges in managing its short-term liquidity.
- The company's management has highlighted the impact of supply chain constraints on its working capital performance.
- The company's strong cash flow generation provides it with ample financial flexibility for future investments or economic downturns.
- Solvency
- GE Aerospace's long-term solvency is strong, as evidenced by the decreasing levels of long-term debt and the increasing levels of total capital.
- The company's debt / EBITDA ratio is also below the industry average, indicating that it is not overly leveraged.
- The company's focus on reducing debt levels and increasing investments in long-term assets suggests that it is confident in its ability to generate cash flow and support its long-term growth.
- Operational Efficiency
- GE Aerospace appears to be using its assets more efficiently, as evidenced by the decreasing levels of assets and the increasing levels of profitability.
- The company's focus on operational efficiency and cost management is driving its profitability improvement.
- The company's strategic initiatives, such as the implementation of FLIGHT DECK and the formation of a new Technology & Operations organization, are expected to further enhance its operational efficiency and profitability.
- Cash Flow Analysis
- GE Aerospace's cash flow from operating activities is generally increasing, driven by strong net income growth and a focus on cost management.
- The company's free cash flow is increasing, providing it with ample financial flexibility for future investments, debt repayment, and shareholder returns.
- The company's cash flow / total debt ratio is above the industry average, indicating strong debt service coverage.
- The company's free cash flow margin is increasing, indicating that it is generating more cash flow from its operations.
- Risk Factors
- The company faces significant operational and financial risks from macroeconomic volatility, supply chain challenges, and the cyclical nature of the commercial aviation industry.
- The company's management has highlighted the impact of supply chain constraints on its financial performance.
- The company's decreasing levels of working capital and the decreasing current ratio suggest that it may be facing some challenges in managing its short-term liquidity.
- The company's decreasing levels of equity could also be a concern, as it could indicate that the company is not generating enough profits to support its growth.
- Future Outlook
- GE Aerospace's future outlook is positive, driven by its strong profitability, its focus on operational efficiency, and its commitment to returning capital to shareholders.
- The company's forward guidance suggests that it expects to continue to grow revenue and improve profitability in the future.
- The company's strategic initiatives, such as the implementation of FLIGHT DECK and the formation of a new Technology & Operations organization, are expected to further enhance its operational efficiency and profitability.
- The company's strong cash flow generation provides it with ample financial flexibility for future investments or economic downturns.
- Profitability
Financial statements
Public filings
- GE Aerospace has transformed into a more focused aerospace and defense company following the spin-off of its GE Vernova business, positioning it to capitalize on growth opportunities in commercial aviation and military markets.
- The company faces significant operational and financial risks from macroeconomic volatility, supply chain challenges, and the cyclical nature of the commercial aviation industry, which could impact its financial performance.
- Developing and launching new, more sustainable aviation technologies is a strategic priority, but the company must navigate a complex regulatory landscape and competitive threats.
- Ongoing legal matters, including shareholder lawsuits and the Poland mortgage litigation, pose reputational and financial risks that require close monitoring.
- Strong cash flow generation and a disciplined capital allocation strategy, including share repurchases, suggest the company is well-positioned to weather near-term headwinds and invest for long-term growth.
Core Business and Operations:
- General Electric Company (GE Aerospace) is a global aerospace leader, operating as two reportable segments:
- Commercial Engines & Services (CES): Designs, develops, manufactures and services jet engines for commercial airframes, as well as business aviation and aeroderivative applications.
- Defense & Propulsion Technologies (DPT): Designs, develops, manufactures and services jet engines and aircraft systems for governments, military, and commercial airframers.
- GE Aerospace has a large installed base of approximately 44,000 commercial and 26,000 military aircraft engines, supporting its aftermarket services business which represents around 70% of revenues.
- Key customers include airframers, airlines, lessors, and governments/militaries globally.
- Major competitors include Pratt & Whitney, Rolls-Royce, and CFM International (a joint venture between GE and Safran).
Industry and Market Trends:
- The commercial aviation sector is cyclical and heavily influenced by factors like air travel demand, airline financial health, fuel prices, and regulatory changes.
- The defense sector is driven by government spending and budgets, with a focus on modernizing and scaling military forces.
- The industry faces challenges from supply chain constraints, inflationary pressures, and the need to develop more sustainable aviation technologies.
- Regulatory changes related to emissions, climate change, and data privacy/security pose compliance risks.
Recent Events:
- In April 2024, GE completed the spin-off of its GE Vernova business, becoming a more focused aerospace and defense company.
- Acquired Nexus Controls in 2023 to strengthen its gas power controls and services capabilities.
- Signed an agreement in 2024 to exit its Canadian life and health insurance portfolio through an assumption reinsurance transaction.
- Announced a new $15 billion share repurchase program in 2024 to return capital to shareholders.
Risk Factors:
- Macroeconomic and market volatility, including recession risks, inflation, and supply chain disruptions.
- Cyclical nature of the commercial aviation sector and dependence on key customers/partners.
- Competitive threats from new technologies and market entrants.
- Operational execution challenges in launching/ramping new product platforms.
- Cybersecurity threats and data privacy/security compliance risks.
- Financial risks from run-off insurance operations and credit/liquidity issues.
- Legal and regulatory risks, including government investigations and product liability lawsuits.
Legal Matters:
- Ongoing shareholder lawsuits related to historical accounting and disclosure practices.
- Significant litigation in Poland related to Bank BPH's foreign currency mortgage portfolio.
- Environmental remediation obligations and worker exposure claims.
Management's Discussion and Analysis:
- Revenues, margins, and profitability have been impacted by supply chain constraints, inflation, and changes in customer demand.
- Strong cash flow generation, with free cash flow increasing year-over-year.
- Segment profit and margins improved, driven by higher pricing, services volume, and cost productivity.
- Significant investments in R&D for sustainable aviation technologies like the RISE program.
- Pension and other postretirement benefit obligations remain a source of financial risk.
Earnings calls
Earnings Report 2024Q4 (2025-01-24)
Key takeaways
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Strong Financial Performance and Positive Outlook: GE Aerospace delivered exceptional financial results in 2024, exceeding expectations and setting a strong foundation for continued growth in 2025. The company's positive guidance reflects confidence in its ability to navigate challenges and capitalize on market opportunities.
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Supply Chain Remains a Key Focus: While significant progress has been made in addressing supply chain constraints, it remains a critical area of focus for the company. Continued improvement is crucial for meeting the strong demand for both new engines and aftermarket services.
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LEAP Engine Program's Growing Importance: The LEAP engine program is transitioning from a cost center to a significant profit contributor, driven by strong aftermarket services growth. Its future profitability will be a key driver of overall financial performance.
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Strategic Investments and Operational Efficiency: GE Aerospace's strategic investments in MRO facilities, the implementation of FLIGHT DECK, and the formation of the Technology & Operations organization demonstrate a commitment to operational efficiency and long-term growth.
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Robust Demand Across Sectors: The company benefits from strong demand in both commercial and defense sectors, providing a diversified revenue stream and mitigating risks associated with reliance on a single market.
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Shareholder Returns Remain a Priority: The company's commitment to returning over 100% of free cash flow to shareholders through share repurchases and dividend increases highlights its focus on maximizing shareholder value.
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Potential for Further Growth: While supply chain challenges remain, the company's strong backlog and robust demand suggest significant potential for further revenue and profit growth in the coming years. The potential for strategic acquisitions could further enhance the company's competitive position.
Focus of management’s prepared remarks
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Standalone Public Company Success: GE Aerospace highlighted its first year as a standalone public company, emphasizing strong financial performance exceeding expectations. Specific metrics like double-digit revenue growth, a $1.7 billion profit increase, and a $1.3 billion increase in free cash flow were cited.
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FLIGHT DECK Operational Model: The lean operating model, FLIGHT DECK, was presented as a key driver of success, improving safety, quality, delivery, and cost. Specific examples of its impact on supplier relationships and internal processes were provided.
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Strong Commercial and Defense Momentum: Significant new orders for both commercial (LEAP-1B, GEnx, GE9X) and defense (T700) engines were detailed, showcasing robust demand across sectors. The LEAP-1A HPT durability kit certification was highlighted as a key achievement.
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Technological Advancements: Progress on key technology initiatives, including the RISE open-fan engine program and a successful demonstration of a 1-megawatt hybrid electric propulsion system, were emphasized, positioning GE Aerospace for future growth.
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2025 Guidance and Shareholder Returns: The company provided optimistic guidance for 2025, projecting substantial revenue, EPS, and cash growth. Plans to increase share repurchases to $7 billion and raise the dividend by 30% demonstrated a commitment to shareholder returns.
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Supply Chain Improvements: Management detailed significant progress in addressing supply chain constraints, noting improvements in material inputs from priority suppliers and the creation of a new Technology & Operations organization to further enhance collaboration and problem-solving.
Focus of the analyst Q&A
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LEAP OE Profitability and Future Trajectory: Analysts sought clarification on the 2025 guidance assumptions regarding LEAP original equipment (OE) profitability and the expected profit trajectory once breakeven is achieved. Questions focused on whether LEAP OE could become a significant profit center in the future.
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2025 Profit Growth Discrepancy: Analysts questioned the difference between the initially projected $1 billion operating profit growth for 2025 and the revised guidance of $750 million, despite exceeding 2024 expectations. The inquiry focused on identifying factors that prevented the full translation of 2024's strong performance into 2025.
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GE9X Engine Opportunities: Analysts inquired about potential opportunities for the GE9X engine beyond the Boeing 777X program, given the aircraft's return to flight testing.
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CES Margins and Services Growth: Analysts sought a detailed breakdown of the factors contributing to the strong CES margins in Q4 2024, particularly given the slower-than-expected internal shop visit volume. Questions focused on the 2025 outlook for services growth, including the mix of spare parts versus internal shop visits and the contribution of different engine types.
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Commercial Services Growth Drivers: Analysts pressed for further details on the drivers of the improved commercial services growth outlook for 2025, specifically comparing wide-body versus narrow-body performance and the potential for even higher growth if supply chain issues were resolved.
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LEAP Engine Deliveries and Spare Parts Ratio: Analysts sought clarification on the expected split of LEAP engine deliveries between Airbus and Boeing in 2025, given the projected 15% to 20% growth and the anticipated decrease in the spare parts ratio.
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LEAP Spares Growth and Third-Party Maintenance: Analysts explored the factors influencing spares growth, including the provisioning of third-party shops for LEAP maintenance, the impact on spares growth trajectory, and the interplay between internal and external LEAP maintenance work given planned CapEx.
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Free Cash Flow Forecast Details: Analysts requested a detailed breakdown of the 2025 free cash flow forecast, focusing on the anticipated contributions from working capital components (inventory, LTSA cash, AD&A) and the offsetting effects of higher CapEx and cash tax payments.
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Labor Productivity and Supply Chain Dependence: Analysts inquired about labor productivity across the company, comparing current levels to pre-pandemic levels, and identifying factors influencing productivity, including the company's control versus external supplier dependencies.
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Supply Chain Bottlenecks and Improvement Cadence: Analysts sought further details on remaining supply chain bottlenecks and pain points, particularly concerning the impact on internal shop visits despite improvements in other areas. The question explored whether improvements would be linear or involve step-function changes.
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Strategic Acquisitions and Business Expansion: Analysts asked about the company's potential interest in expanding beyond propulsion through acquisitions, given its strong balance sheet and projected cash generation.
Summary
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Financial Performance: GE Aerospace reported strong financial results for both Q4 2024 and the full year. Q4 saw a 16% increase in revenue, a 49% surge in profit ($2 billion), and a 21% rise in free cash flow ($1.5 billion). Full-year results were equally impressive, with 10% revenue growth, a 30% increase in profit ($7.3 billion), and nearly 30% growth in free cash flow ($6.1 billion). The company exceeded its most recent guidance. EPS more than doubled in Q4 and increased by 56% for the full year. Free cash flow conversion exceeded 100% for both the quarter and the year.
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Revenue Drivers: Strong demand for both services and equipment fueled revenue growth. In Commercial Engines & Services (CES), services orders were up 30% for the year and revenue was up 13%. Significant orders included American Airlines' commitment for 85 Boeing 737 MAX jets and new GEnx orders from British Airways. In Defense & Propulsion Technologies (DPT), defense units nearly doubled sequentially in Q4, and full-year revenue was up 6%. The LEAP engine program, while facing some delivery challenges, saw strong aftermarket services revenue growth. The acquisition of Northstar Aerospace is expected to contribute positively.
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Profit Margins and Cost Management: Profit margins expanded significantly. Q4 saw a 450 basis point increase in margins to 20.1%, while full-year margins expanded by 330 basis points to 20.7%, driven primarily by commercial services. CES margins reached 28.2% in Q4. The company implemented FLIGHT DECK, a lean operating model, to improve efficiency and cost management. While supply chain constraints impacted some aspects of performance, the company highlighted progress in addressing these issues. Future margin expansion is expected, driven by services growth and operational improvements.
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Guidance and Outlook: GE Aerospace provided positive guidance for 2025, projecting mid-single-digit departures growth and low double-digit revenue growth. Profit is expected to be in the range of $7.8 billion to $8.2 billion, and EPS is projected to be $5.10 to $5.45, representing a 15% increase at the midpoint. Free cash flow is expected to reach $6.3 billion to $6.8 billion, with conversion remaining above 100%. The company plans to increase share repurchases to $7 billion and raise its dividend by 30%, subject to board approval. Supply chain constraints remain a risk, but the company expects continued improvement.
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Strategic Initiatives: Key strategic initiatives include the implementation of FLIGHT DECK, the formation of a new Technology & Operations organization to improve problem-solving and deliveries, and investments exceeding $1 billion in internal MRO facilities over the next five years. The acquisition of Northstar Aerospace strengthens the company's capabilities in manufacturing mission-critical parts. The company is focused on expanding LEAP aftermarket capacity and strengthening its third-party MRO network.
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Management Commentary: Management expressed strong confidence in the company's performance and future prospects. They highlighted the success of FLIGHT DECK in improving operational efficiency and addressing supply chain challenges. The company emphasized its commitment to customer service and safety. Management acknowledged ongoing supply chain constraints but expressed optimism about continued improvement. The overall tone was positive and confident.
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Industry and Market Conditions: The company noted robust demand for its products and services across both commercial and defense sectors. Increased military spending and mid-single-digit departures growth are expected to support revenue growth. The company highlighted the successful inaugural flight of the Airbus A321XLR powered by its LEAP-1A engines, demonstrating the competitiveness of its technology. Supply chain constraints remain a significant factor impacting the industry.
Comparative analysis
Benchmarks (as of 2025-04-09)
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Performance Comparison:
- GE Aerospace has significantly outperformed the Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK) over the 1-year, 2-year, and 3-year periods. For example, over the past three years, GE Aerospace has returned 247.21% compared to XLK's 40.71%. However, in the most recent week and month, GE has underperformed XLK. Year-to-date and 3-month performance shows GE outperforming XLK.
- GE's performance relative to XLK has been inconsistent, with periods of significant outperformance followed by short-term underperformance.
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Risk and Return Analysis:
- GE Aerospace has provided higher annualized returns compared to the Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK) over the 1-year, 2-year, and 3-year periods. For example, the 3-year annualized return for GE is 51.42% compared to 12.06% for XLK.
- GE Aerospace has generally exhibited similar or slightly higher annualized volatility compared to the Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK).
- GE Aerospace's maximum drawdown of -46.55% is greater than XLK's maximum drawdown of -33.56%, indicating a higher risk profile.
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Risk-Adjusted Performance:
- GE Aerospace's Sharpe Ratio was frequently higher than that of the Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK), indicating better risk-adjusted returns.
- GE Aerospace's Beta fluctuated around 1, indicating it generally moves in line with the market, while XLK consistently had a Beta above 1, indicating it is more volatile than the market.
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Overall Assessment:
- GE Aerospace has demonstrated superior historical performance and risk-adjusted returns compared to the Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK). However, GE also exhibits higher volatility and drawdown, suggesting a higher risk profile.
- Recent trends indicate that GE's performance has been mixed, with short-term underperformance relative to XLK.
- Investors should consider their risk tolerance and investment horizon when evaluating GE Aerospace relative to Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK).
Peers Price History(as of 2025-04-09)
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Performance Comparison:
- GE Aerospace has shown significant outperformance compared to Lockheed Martin and RTX Corp. over the 2-year and 3-year periods, with returns of 150.57% and 247.21% respectively, versus -1.82% and 7.75% for Lockheed Martin, and 35.35% and 35.14% for RTX Corp. However, over the past year, GE Aerospace's performance of 20.59% has underperformed RTX Corp's 29.49%, while outperforming Lockheed Martin's 5.01%. Year-to-date, GE Aerospace and RTX Corp. are nearly identical at 11.29% and 11.27% respectively, while Lockheed Martin is significantly lower at -3.44%.
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Risk and Return Analysis:
- GE Aerospace has provided higher annualized returns over the 2-year and 3-year periods compared to Lockheed Martin and RTX Corp. For example, the 3-year annualized return for GE Aerospace is 51.42%, compared to 2.52% for Lockheed Martin and 10.56% for RTX Corp.
- GE Aerospace has generally exhibited moderate volatility, with annualized volatility ranging from approximately 14.89% to 55.78%. Lockheed Martin has generally had lower volatility, ranging from approximately 8.88% to 39.66%. RTX Corp.'s volatility has ranged from approximately 8.53% to 41.34%.
- GE Aerospace experienced a maximum drawdown of -46.55% on 2022-07-14, which is larger than the maximum drawdowns of Lockheed Martin (-30.71% on 2025-02-14) and RTX Corp. (-32.84% on 2023-10-05). This indicates that GE Aerospace has historically been subject to more significant declines from peak values.
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Risk-Adjusted Performance:
- GE Aerospace's Sharpe Ratios were generally higher than those of Lockheed Martin and RTX Corp. from Q2 2023 through Q1 2024, indicating better risk-adjusted returns during that period. However, Lockheed Martin had higher Sharpe Ratios in Q2 2022 and Q4 2022.
- GE Aerospace's beta has generally been around 1, indicating that it moves relatively in line with the market. Lockheed Martin's beta has consistently been below 1, indicating lower sensitivity to market movements. RTX Corp.'s beta has also been below 1, but generally higher than Lockheed Martin's.
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Overall Assessment:
- GE Aerospace has demonstrated strong historical performance, particularly over the 2-year and 3-year periods, with higher annualized returns compared to Lockheed Martin and RTX Corp. However, it has also exhibited higher volatility and a larger maximum drawdown, indicating a higher risk profile. GE Aerospace's Sharpe Ratios suggest better risk-adjusted returns during certain periods, but its beta around 1 indicates market-level sensitivity. Lockheed Martin has shown lower volatility and a lower beta, suggesting a more conservative risk profile, but its returns have generally been lower. RTX Corp. has provided competitive returns, but its volatility and drawdown characteristics are closer to those of GE Aerospace.
- Recent trends indicate that GE Aerospace and RTX Corp. experienced a spike in volatility in Q2 2025, while Lockheed Martin's volatility remained moderate. This suggests that recent market conditions may be having a greater impact on GE Aerospace and RTX Corp. than on Lockheed Martin.
Peers Fundamentals(as of 2024-12-31)
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Market Position and Size:
- GE Aerospace (GE) is the largest company in the peer group, with a market capitalization significantly larger than Lockheed Martin Corp. (LMT) and RTX Corp. (RTX). This indicates a larger scale of operations and potentially greater market influence.
- However, GE's size may be a factor in its lower returns on assets and equity compared to LMT, suggesting that maintaining high returns with a larger asset base can be challenging.
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Profitability and Efficiency:
- GE exhibits significantly higher gross profit margin, EBITDA margin, and net profit margin compared to both peers and the industry average, indicating efficient operations and a strong competitive position.
- However, GE's lower return on assets and equity compared to LMT suggests that it may be less efficient in generating returns from its assets and equity, potentially due to its larger size.
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Financial Health and Stability:
- GE has a strong financial health profile, characterized by high profitability, a conservative debt position, and a solid cash flow generation capacity.
- However, its lower liquidity ratios compared to both peers and the industry average suggest a potential vulnerability to short-term financial stress.
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Valuation and Market Perception:
- The market is willing to pay a premium for GE's revenue and profitability, as evidenced by its higher EV/Sales and EV/EBITDA ratios compared to its peers.
- However, the market may be less confident in GE's future earnings growth or asset quality, as its P/E and P/B ratios are lower than its peers.
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Cash Flow and Capital Management:
- GE generates lower NOCF and FCF than its peers, but its lower CAPEX suggests a more conservative investment strategy, potentially leading to a more sustainable cash flow generation in the long term.
- It's important to consider the sustainability of GE's cash flow generation and its impact on future growth and shareholder value.
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Growth and Future Prospects:
- GE's growth rates are lower than the peer group average, suggesting potential challenges in maintaining its competitive position and expanding its market share.
- However, GE's recent growth acceleration, as evidenced by its higher 3-year CAGRs for EBITDA, free cash flow, and EBIT margin compared to its 5-year CAGRs, suggests potential for improvement.
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Potential for Investment:
- GE presents a mixed investment proposition. Its strong profitability, conservative debt position, and solid cash flow generation capacity are attractive.
- However, its lower growth rates and liquidity ratios compared to its peers raise concerns about its future prospects and ability to manage short-term financial obligations.
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Key Risks and Considerations:
- GE's lower growth rates and liquidity ratios compared to its peers suggest potential challenges in maintaining its market share and managing short-term financial obligations.
- The sustainability of GE's recent growth acceleration needs to be carefully assessed.
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Overall Assessment:
- GE Aerospace (GE) is a large, profitable, and financially stable company with a strong competitive position. However, its lower growth rates and liquidity ratios compared to its peers raise concerns about its future prospects and ability to manage short-term financial obligations. Investors should carefully consider these factors and assess the sustainability of GE's recent growth acceleration before making any investment decisions.