American Vanguard Corp - AVD STOCK NEWS

American Vanguard Corporation (NYSE: AVD) has sent a letter to stockholders ahead of its Annual Meeting on June 1, 2022. The Board urges stockholders to vote 'FOR ALL' nine nominated directors using the 'WHITE' proxy card and to ignore any proxy from Cruiser Capital. Highlights include a 37% year-to-date stock appreciation, outpacing the Russell 2000's 19% decline. The Board is committed to long-term value creation and plans to appoint at least two new directors by 2023. The letter stresses maintaining the current strategy to drive future growth.

Cruiser Capital Master Fund LP, a significant shareholder in American Vanguard (NYSE: AVD), criticized the company's recent proxy statement for lacking transparency regarding corporate governance improvements. Cruiser claims AVD has failed to prioritize the separation of the Chairman and CEO roles, which they argue is essential for shareholder interests. They highlighted that AVD's total shareholder return has underperformed relative to peers over the years and raised concerns about declining EBITDA margins despite increased sales. Cruiser urges shareholders to vote for their nominees using the BLUE proxy card.

American Vanguard (NYSE: AVD) announced the ongoing process to refresh its Board of Directors, initiated in 2018, by adding two independent directors by the end of 2023. This move is aimed at enhancing the board's skillsets and diversity to align with the company’s strategic growth objectives. The board is actively seeking stockholder input and has received positive feedback during discussions. While the company continues to navigate challenges, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on its operations, it emphasizes the importance of effective governance in driving value creation for shareholders.

Cruiser Capital, a significant shareholder of American Vanguard (AVD), owning 2.5% of shares, criticized the company's Board for underperformance and governance issues. They claim AVD's stock price has declined over the past decade compared to peers. Cruiser urges shareholders to support their director nominees to implement necessary changes. AVD's recent financial disclosures raised concerns over transparency, including a reported $222 million in sales and a 15% EBITDA margin, leading to questions about the accuracy and context of these figures. They stress the need for independent oversight to enhance shareholder value.

American Vanguard Corporation (NYSE: AVD) has issued a letter to stockholders ahead of its Annual Meeting scheduled for June 1, 2022. The letter emphasizes the qualifications of the Company’s nine director nominees and urges stockholders to vote for them on the WHITE proxy card. The Board highlights its past performance, including outperformance of the Russell 2000 and consistent dividend payments, while countering claims made by Cruiser Capital regarding their nominees. American Vanguard asserts its nominees possess superior experience and capability to maintain the Company’s growth trajectory.

Cruiser Capital, a significant shareholder of American Vanguard Corporation (NYSE:AVD), holding 2.5% of shares, has called for major changes in the company's board. In a recent presentation, Cruiser highlighted a decade of underperformance and the need for improved corporate governance. They are urging stockholders to vote for Cruiser's three nominees at the upcoming Annual Meeting on June 1, 2022, to enhance operational efficiency and long-term shareholder value. Cruiser emphasizes that current board members exhibit an entrenched mindset detrimental to stakeholders.

American Vanguard Corporation (NYSE: AVD) reported strong Q1 2022 results, exceeding revenue and EBITDA targets, driven by strategic actions and technological innovations. Net sales increased from $116.2 million to $149.4 million, while net income rose from $3.1 million to $9.9 million, marking a 219.4% growth. The company anticipates mid-double-digit growth for the year. The board recommends stockholders vote for its nine experienced director nominees against Cruiser Capital, whose candidates lack a clear plan. The annual meeting is set for June 1, 2022.

American Vanguard Corporation (NYSE: AVD) reported a strong start to fiscal 2022, with net sales increasing by 29% to $149.4 million and net income surging 224% to $9.9 million for Q1 2022 compared to Q1 2021. Earnings per diluted share rose to $0.33. The EBITDA also improved significantly to $22.9 million. The company achieved a 41% gross profit margin while reducing operating expenses to 31% of sales. Growth was driven by increased demand for crop protection solutions and successful international expansions.

American Vanguard Corporation (NYSE: AVD) will report its financial results for Q1 ended March 31, 2022, on May 4, 2022, after market close. A conference call will follow at 4:30 PM ET, led by CEO Eric Wintemute, COO Bob Trogele, and CFO David T. Johnson. Investors can join by calling 862-298-0702 or via live webcast on the company’s website. American Vanguard specializes in agricultural products and is included in the Russell 2000 and S&P SmallCap 600 Indexes.