Cautious optimism emerges despite conservative FY 2024 guidance
As the Q4 2023 earnings season comes to a close, we reflect on the results. While FY 2024 guidance remains conservative, we see a sense of cautious optimism creeping in based on anticipated interest rate cuts and declining inflation later in 2024. However, lingering macroeconomic impacts and geopolitical risks keep outlooks in check for many.
Beyond price hikes: The rise of new growth engines
As pricing mechanisms recede, companies are now looking to alternative growth paths. We expect to see a rise in strategies emphasising product mix optimisation, volume increases, and, most importantly, innovation. This shift is particularly crucial for sectors like chemicals, which are still struggling with high raw material and energy costs. The new operating environment demands agility, and many companies are redesigning processes, streamlining operations, and leveraging digital solutions to boost productivity and supply chain management. The “war for talent” persists, prompting new employee attraction and retention strategies, with companies using M&A to target valuable skill sets at attractive prices. Capital allocation is another critical weapon in the fight for future-proof growth, with short-term, disciplined Capex prioritised for supply chain optimisation and efficiency gains. Sustainability is also a top priority, with the CSRD Directive shaping the ESG agenda.
FY 2024: A year of strategic manoeuvring
Get ready for a year of calculated moves as companies adopt a cautious yet optimistic approach and embrace innovation and strategic capital allocation to future-proof their businesses. With a focus on efficiency, talent acquisition, and sustainability, FY 2024 promises to be a year of exciting developments for those who can navigate the changing landscape.
Quarterly Pulse: Q4 2023 Earnings at a Glance
Dive into the heart of Q4 corporate earnings with our Quarterly Pulse. We distil the quarterly communications into actionable insights, enhanced by direct client dialogues. Here’s what’s inside the Pulse:
- Insights: Get the summary of our perspective.
- Key themes: Spot the trends that will shape the year.
- Sector focus: Uncover the dynamic shifts driving our insights.
Stay ahead – unlock the narrative behind the numbers!
With over two decades of expertise, Severine combines her in-house IR, equity and consulting background to provide Fairvue’s clients with unique insights into the ever-evolving challenges of Capital Market engagement, as well as transitioning IR into a strategic contributor to Management teams and Supervisory Boards.
