Hurco (NASDAQ: HURC) narrows Q1 loss as orders rise and margins improve
Rhea-AI Filing Summary
Hurco Companies, Inc. reported first-quarter fiscal 2026 results showing a smaller loss on lower sales. Net loss was $3.47 million, or $0.54 per diluted share, improving from a loss of $4.32 million, or $0.67, a year earlier.
Sales and service fees fell 8% to $42.87 million, with declines across the Americas, Europe, and Asia Pacific, partly offset by favorable currency effects. Gross margin improved to 19% from 18% on a better mix of higher-performance Hurco and Takumi machines and better fixed-cost leverage.
New orders rose 5% to $41.98 million, led by an 18% increase in the Americas as customers ordered more Hurco and Takumi machines. Selling, general and administrative expenses increased to $11.11 million, or 26% of sales, driven by currency and higher employee benefits.
Cash and cash equivalents were $48.01 million at January 31, 2026, slightly below $48.71 million at October 31, 2025. Working capital was $169.51 million, compared with $173.06 million, mainly due to higher accounts payable and lower inventories.
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Insights
Hurco narrowed losses as orders improved, but demand and costs remain challenging.
Hurco posted an $3.47 million net loss on $42.87 million of sales for the quarter ended January 31, 2026. Revenue declined 8%, but gross margin ticked up to 19% from 18% thanks to a richer mix of higher-performance machines and better absorption of fixed costs.
Orders increased 5% to $41.98 million, with the Americas up 18%, suggesting early demand recovery in that region despite tariff pressures. Europe and Asia Pacific orders softened modestly, with management citing weaker Hurco and Takumi demand in several key countries, partly offset by stronger accessory and component demand at LCM.
Operating performance is still weak: operating margin was negative 7% versus negative 5% a year ago as SG&A rose to 26% of sales. Liquidity remains solid with cash of $48.01 million and no debt as of January 31, 2026, but the continued losses and full valuation allowances on certain deferred tax assets highlight the need for sustained demand recovery and cost discipline.