Bunge Limited (NYSE:BG) opened the trading session with a decline in its stock value, reacting to mixed signals from its recent financial results. The agribusiness giant posted strong quarterly numbers, including adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $1.99 and quarterly sales of $23.762 billion, both exceeding analysts’ respective consensus estimates of $1.81 EPS and $22.684 billion in sales. Despite this robust performance, investor sentiment was tempered by the company’s subdued profit outlook for the upcoming fiscal year, leading to downward pressure on the shares.
Examining the quarterly results, Bunge's operational improvements across multiple segments contributed to higher adjusted earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT), which surged to $622 million from $445 million a year prior. This increase was attributed to a combination of disciplined execution, expanded global capabilities, and an enhanced footprint that allowed the company to capitalize on market opportunities effectively.
Segment performance indicates a strong expansion in net sales compared to the corresponding period last year. The Soybean Processing and Refining segment reported net sales of $11.045 billion, up significantly from $8.374 billion, largely propelled by increased operations in South America, particularly in Argentina and Brazil. The Softseed Processing and Refining segment experienced net sales growth to $4.545 billion against $1.808 billion previously, driven by elevated average processing margins and the acquisition of Viterra's softseed assets. Conversely, Other Oilseeds Processing and Refining segment sales remained relatively unchanged at $1.191 billion. The Grain Merchandising and Milling segment expanded its net sales markedly, reaching $6.982 billion from $2.242 billion year over year.
Gross profit for the quarter was reported at $1.011 billion, just below the $1.081 billion seen in the prior-year quarter, suggesting some margin pressure despite higher sales volumes. Cash and cash equivalents at quarter-end were reduced to $1.135 billion from $3.311 billion in the previous year, reflecting shifts in working capital and investment activities. Operational cash flow for the fiscal year totaled $844 million, a decrease from $1.9 billion the previous year, driven principally by lower net income and changes in working capital.
Looking ahead, Bunge forecasted an adjusted EPS for fiscal 2026 in the range of $7.50 to $8.00 per share, notably below analyst expectations pegged at $8.71. The company anticipates an adjusted effective tax rate between 23% and 27%, alongside net interest expenses of approximately $575 million to $625 million. Capital expenditures are planned to be within $1.5 billion to $1.7 billion, paired with expected depreciation and amortization costs around $975 million.
CEO Greg Heckman commented on the outlook, emphasizing the ongoing challenges posed by dynamic market conditions. "While forward visibility remains limited amid dynamic market conditions, our expanded capabilities, more balanced global footprint, and diversified value chains give us the tools to better adapt, manage risk, and continue connecting farmers to global demand for food, feed and fuel in any environment," he stated.
Market reaction was immediate, with Bunge’s shares declining by 2.89% to $113.50 in premarket trading on Wednesday. This movement reflects investor caution as the firm balances current operational success with a warier stance toward future profitability and capital deployment.
Overall, Bunge’s results underscore a nuanced balance between strong recent operational achievements and a more conservative outlook shaped by ongoing challenges in the agricultural supply chain and broader economic environment.