Real Matters ((TSE:REAL)) has held its Q2 earnings call. Read on for the main highlights of the call.
Real Matters’ recent earnings call revealed a mixed sentiment, showcasing both growth and challenges. While the company saw positive developments in its U.S. Title and Canadian segments, with improved net revenue margins and a robust balance sheet, it also faced a decline in overall net revenue and U.S. Appraisal revenues, alongside an adjusted EBITDA loss, indicating hurdles in the current market landscape.
U.S. Title Segment Growth
The U.S. Title segment emerged as a bright spot, posting double-digit revenue growth year-over-year. This growth was fueled by net market share gains with clients and a significant 40% increase in refinance origination revenues. The segment’s performance underscores its resilience and ability to capitalize on market opportunities.
Net Revenue Margin Improvement
Real Matters reported an improvement in net revenue margins, which increased by 80 basis points quarter-over-quarter to 27.3%. This marks the 10th consecutive quarter of maintaining a strong position, highlighting the company’s effective cost management and operational efficiency.
Canadian Segment Growth
The Canadian segment also contributed positively, with revenues rising by 11% year-over-year. Net revenue margins in Canada remained near all-time highs at 19%, and the launch of two new clients during the second quarter further bolstered this growth.
Strong Balance Sheet
Real Matters continues to maintain a strong balance sheet, with no debt and cash reserves of $45.7 million. This financial stability positions the company well to capitalize on future market improvements and navigate the current economic challenges.
Decline in Net Revenue
Despite the positive segments, Real Matters experienced a decline in consolidated net revenue, which fell to $10.1 million from $11.5 million in the previous year. This decrease was primarily attributed to a downturn in the U.S. purchase mortgage origination market.
U.S. Appraisal Revenue Decline
The U.S. Appraisal segment faced challenges, with revenues declining by 9% sequentially and 18% year-over-year. This decline was driven by lower addressable market volumes, reflecting broader market trends.
Adjusted EBITDA Loss
Real Matters reported a consolidated adjusted EBITDA loss of $1.9 million, contrasting with a positive EBITDA of $700,000 in the second quarter of fiscal 2024. This loss highlights the financial pressures the company is currently facing.
Increase in U.S. Title Operating Expenses
Operating expenses in the U.S. Title segment rose by 29% year-over-year. This increase was due to the hiring of additional sales personnel and higher variable costs associated with increased volumes, reflecting the company’s investment in growth.
Forward-Looking Guidance
Looking ahead to the second quarter of fiscal 2025, Real Matters provided detailed guidance on various financial metrics. The company anticipates continued growth in the U.S. Title segment, with revenues expected to increase by 11% year-over-year. Despite challenges in the U.S. Appraisal segment, adjusted EBITDA is projected to rise due to lower operating expenses. The company’s strong balance sheet, with $45.7 million in cash and no debt, positions it well to navigate the current macroeconomic environment and capitalize on potential mortgage market improvements.
In summary, Real Matters’ earnings call highlighted a mix of growth and challenges. While the company demonstrated strength in its U.S. Title and Canadian segments, it also faced declines in net revenue and U.S. Appraisal revenues. The forward-looking guidance suggests cautious optimism, with expectations of continued growth in key areas and a strong financial position to weather market fluctuations.