Algoma Steel Group Inc. Common Shares - ASTL STOCK NEWS

Algoma Steel Group Inc. reported a coal conveyor fire on August 7, 2022, but stated that iron and steelmaking operations will continue as planned. The company has enough coke inventory and contracts for purchased coke to support ongoing production. No injuries were reported, and the company praised the quick response of emergency services. Algoma is assessing damages and developing repair plans to minimize impacts on operations.

Algoma Steel Group Inc. (NASDAQ: ASTL; TSX: ASTL) announced its revised Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) offer to United Steelworkers Local Union 2251. The union has refused to present the offer for a vote, despite Algoma claiming it includes competitive wage increases of approximately 15.2% over four years, a $6,000 signing bonus for established employees, and enhanced health benefits. Algoma aims to avoid business interruptions caused by the ongoing negotiations, having successfully reached an agreement with another local union, Local 2724.

Algoma Steel Group reported a first quarter fiscal 2023 revenue of $934.1 million, marking an 18.4% increase from $789.1 million year-over-year. Net income rose to $301.4 million or $1.49 per diluted share, although EPS decreased from $2.84 due to a higher share count post-merger. The company has advanced its electric arc furnace project, expected to reduce carbon emissions by 70%, and completed a $400 million share repurchase, securing 28% of its outstanding shares. Shipments decreased by 11.9% to 537,524 tons.

Algoma Steel Group announced the successful completion of its substantial issuer bid, purchasing 41,025,641 common shares at US$9.75 each, totaling approximately US$400 million. This represents 27.9% of outstanding shares. The offer was oversubscribed, with around 60.8 million shares tendered. Algoma will likely restart its normal course issuer bid once these purchases are finalized. Shareholders selling shares under this offer may incur Canadian tax liabilities as deemed dividends. The paid-up capital per share is estimated at C$5.43 (US$4.22).

Algoma Steel Group Inc. (NASDAQ: ASTL; TSX: ASTL) announced a 15-day extension to its collective agreement with United Steelworkers Local Union 2251, beyond the July 31, 2022 contract deadline. This extension aims to facilitate continued negotiations for improved wages and benefits. CEO Michael Garcia emphasized the commitment to reach an agreement that supports future operations under the electric arc transformation. The company is a fully integrated steel producer based in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, with a production capacity of 2.8 million tons annually.

Algoma Steel Group Inc. (NASDAQ: ASTL; TSX: ASTL) announced its final Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) offer to the United Steelworkers Local 2251. The union declined to present the offer to its members for a vote, potentially leading to idling operations from July 31, 2022, to preserve assets. The company's offer includes wage increases of at least 12.6% over three years, enhanced employee benefits, and commitments against job redundancies. If operations are halted, ramp-up may take over 10 days and could affect profit-sharing opportunities this fiscal year.

Algoma Steel Group Inc. announced the preliminary results of its substantial issuer bid, which expired on July 27, 2022. A total of 60,600,233 shares were tendered, with Algoma expected to purchase approximately 41,025,641 shares at a price of US$9.75 each, totaling around US$400 million. This buyback represents about 27.9% of the outstanding shares. Oversubscription led to a proration factor, allowing shareholders who tendered at or below $9.75 to receive about 95.2% of their shares purchased. Final results will be confirmed after verification by the Depositary.

Algoma Steel Group Inc. (NASDAQ: ASTL; TSX: ASTL) announced that its union, USW Local 2724, successfully ratified a new collective agreement, improving economic conditions for its members and facilitating the transition to electric arc steelmaking. Negotiations with USW Local 2251 are ongoing, with a deadline set for July 31, 2022. CEO Michael Garcia acknowledged the progress towards a sustainable future as a green steel producer. Algoma aims to enhance long-term profitability through modernization and cost-cutting initiatives while remaining committed to its transformation journey.

Algoma Steel Group Inc. (NASDAQ: ASTL; TSX: ASTL) plans to release its fiscal 2023 first quarter financial results on August 3, 2022, after market close. A conference call and webcast will follow on August 4, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. ET to discuss the results and recent developments. Algoma is a major Canadian steel producer with a capacity of 2.8 million tons per year, supplying various sectors such as automotive and construction. The company is currently modernizing its operations to enhance long-term profitability and maintain its competitive edge.