On a GAAP basis, earnings were $3.34 per diluted share. Excluding theafter-tax gain of $0.05 per diluted share, 2018 earnings were $3.29 per diluted share, a 26% increase over 2017’s adjusted earnings.
Electronic Instruments Group (EIG)
Fourth quarter EIG sales were a record $826.0 million, up 11% over the fourth quarter of 2017. EIG operating income was a record $214.6 million in the quarter, up 11% over the prior-year period’s adjusted results, and operating margins were 26.0%.
“EIG finished the year with an outstanding fourth quarter, delivering excellent sales and operating income growth. In addition to solid organic growth and excellent operating performance, we completed five acquisitions across EIG in 2018,” noted Mr. Zapico.
Electromechanical Group (EMG)
EMG sales in the fourth quarter were $445.3 million, up 11% over the same quarter in 2017. EMG’s fourth quarter operating income was $85.8 million, an 18% increase, and operating margins were 19.3%, expanding 110 basis points over the prior year’s adjusted results.
“EMG also capped the year with exceptional results in the fourth quarter. Sales grew by double digits on strong, broad-based organic sales growth and contributions from the acquisition of FMH Aerospace. EMG continues to deliver excellent results through our Operational Excellence initiatives, which resulted in a sharp increase in operating income during the quarter,” commented Mr. Zapico.
2019 Outlook
Going forward, AMETEK will report and provide guidance on an adjusted diluted earnings per share basis that adds backnon-cash,after-tax, acquisition related intangible amortization. The company believes thisnon-GAAP measure provides investors with a better understanding of its cash flows and core operating results and aligns more comparably to AMETEK’s acquisitive peer companies. A reconciliation of our GAAP tonon-GAAP results and guidance will be included in financial tables accompanying our press releases.
“Our businesses delivered outstanding performance in 2018, positioning us well for continued success in 2019. The AMETEK Growth Model, which combines our four growth strategies of operational excellence, new product development, global and market expansion, and strategic acquisitions, along with a disciplined focus on cash generation and capital deployment continues to provide a scalable platform to drive long-term, sustainable growth,” noted Mr. Zapico.
“In 2019, we expect overall sales to be up high single digits on a percentage basis compared to 2018, driven by contributions from recent acquisitions, and 3% to 5% organic sales growth. On a GAAP basis, full year earnings per diluted share are expected to be in the range of $3.52 to $3.62. Adjusted earnings per diluted share are expected to be in the range of $3.95 to $4.05, an increase of 8% to 11% over the prior year’s comparable basis,” he added.
| | |
Page 2 | | |