Worthington Steel, Inc.: Form 10-K for the period ended May 31, 2025

General Overview

Worthington Steel, Inc., an Ohio corporation (“Worthington Steel” and, together with its consolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures, referred to herein as the “Company,” “we,” “us” or “our”) is one of North America’s premier value-added metals processors with the ability to provide a diversified range of products and services that span a variety of end markets. We are a value-added processor of carbon flat-rolled steel and a producer of laser welded solutions and electrical steel laminations. We are one of the largest independent intermediate processors of carbon flat-rolled steel in the U.S. We occupy a niche in the steel industry by focusing on products requiring exact specifications.

We buy coils of steel from primary steel producers and process them to the precise type, thickness, length, width, shape and surface quality required by customer specifications. Our product lines and processing capabilities include:

• Carbon Flat-Rolled Steel Processing: We perform a variety of value-added processes based on customer requirements including pickling, specialty re-rolling, hot dip galvanizing, blanking, slitting and cutting-to-length.
• Electrical Steel Laminations: We manufacture precision magnetic steel laminations for the automotive (including applications for electrified vehicles), industrial motor, generator and transformer industries. We deliver precision manufacturing (including stamping, heat treating, core assembly, die casting, bonding, etc.), material sourcing, metallurgical analysis, engineering, prototyping and product design, tooling, and value-added capabilities to customers via a global manufacturing footprint.
• Tailor Welded Products: Tailor welded blanks and aluminum tailor welded blanks are used by North American automotive customers to reduce weight, lower cost, improve material utilization, and consolidate parts. Our highly engineered products allow for flexible part design and ensure the right material is used in the right place. Tailor welded blanks are made from individual sheets of steel of different thickness, strength and coating which are joined together by laser welding. Aluminum tailor welded blanks are processed using friction stir welding technology. Friction stir offers the widest range of formable welded properties for all automotive aluminum alloys.

We also toll process steel for steel mills, large end-users and service centers. Toll processing is different from direct sale steel processing in that the customer retains title to the steel and has the responsibility for selling the end product. Toll processing allows us to earn a fee for services without incurring inventory costs. Our manufacturing facilities further benefit from the flexibility to move between direct versus tolling services based on demand throughout the year.

We operate 28 manufacturing facilities located in the U.S. (19), Canada (2), China, India, Germany, and Mexico (4). On June 3, 2025, subsequent to the end of fiscal year ended on May 31, 2025 (“fiscal 2025”), through our subsidiary Tempel Steel Company, LLC (“Tempel”), we acquired a 52% controlling equity stake in Italy-based Sitem S.p.A. (“Sitem” and, together with its subsidiaries, Stanzwerk AG, Decoup S.A.S. and Sitem Slovakia spol. s r.o., collectively referred to herein as the “Sitem Group”), which has additional locations in Italy (3), France, Slovakia, and Switzerland.

We serviced approximately 1,200 customers during fiscal 2025 in many end markets including automotive, construction, machinery and equipment, agriculture, and heavy trucks, among others. The automotive industry is one of the largest consumers of flat-rolled steel, and the largest end market for us. During fiscal 2025, our top three customers represented approximately 33.0% of total net sales.

The steel processing industry is fragmented and highly competitive. There are many competitors, including other independent intermediate processors. Competition is primarily on the basis of price, product quality and the ability to meet delivery requirements. Technical service and support for material testing and customer-specific applications enhance the quality of products (see the Technical Services section below). However, the extent to which technical service and support capability has improved our competitive position has not been quantified. Our ability to meet tight delivery schedules is, in part, based on the proximity of our facilities to customers, suppliers and one another. The extent to which plant location has impacted our competitive position has not been quantified. Processed steel products are priced competitively, primarily based on market factors, including, among other things, market pricing, the cost and availability of raw materials, transportation and shipping costs, and overall economic conditions in the U.S. and abroad.

Our philosophy is rooted in the belief that people are our most important asset and is the basis for our unwavering commitment to our employees, customers, suppliers, and shareholders. Our primary goal is to create value for our shareholders. Built on the successful foundation of the Worthington Business System, a strategic framework designed to drive continuous improvement through the use of enabling tools and technology that help drive results and inform our business decisions, we apply a disciplined approach to capital deployment and seek to grow earnings by optimizing our operations and supply chain, developing and commercializing new products and applications, and pursuing strategic investments and acquisitions.

We own a controlling interest in three consolidated operating joint ventures: Spartan Steel Coating, L.L.C. (“Spartan”); TWB Company, L.L.C. (“TWB”); and Worthington Samuel Coil Processing, L.L.C. (“WSCP”) and a non-controlling interest in one unconsolidated joint venture, Serviacero Planos, S. de R.L. de C.V. (“Serviacero Worthington”) (see the Our Joint Ventures section below). We also own a controlling interest in Worthington Specialty Processing (“WSP”), which became a non-operating joint venture on October 31, 2022.

Our fiscal year and fourth quarter ends on May 31, with “fiscal 2025” ending on May 31, 2025, “fiscal 2024” ending on May 31, 2024, and “fiscal 2023” ending on May 31, 2023. Our other quarterly periods end on the final day of August (first quarter), November (second quarter) and February (third quarter).

We are headquartered at 100 West Old Wilson Bridge Road, Columbus, Ohio 43085, telephone (614) 840-3462. The common shares of Worthington Steel (the “common shares”) are traded on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) under the symbol WS. We maintain a website at www.worthingtonsteel.com (http://www.worthingtonsteel.com). This uniform resource locator, or URL, is an inactive textual reference only and is not intended to incorporate our website into this Form 10-K. Worthington Steel’s Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports, filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or Section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), as well as Worthington Steel’s definitive proxy materials for annual meetings of shareholders filed pursuant to Section 14 of the Exchange Act, are available free of charge, on or through our website, as soon as reasonably practical after such material is electronically filed with, or furnished to, the SEC.

Recent Business Developments

• Finalized the definitive agreement to acquire a controlling equity stake in Italy-based Sitem Group. The transaction closed on June 3, 2025, subsequent to the end of fiscal 2025.
• On June 25, 2025, the Worthington Steel Board of Directors (the “Board”) declared a quarterly dividend of $0.16 per common share payable on September 26, 2025, to shareholders of record at the close of business on September 12, 2025.

Segment

Our operations are managed principally on a products and services basis under a single group organizational structure. We determined that there is only one operating segment and therefore one reportable segment after considering several sources of information, including our internal organizational structure, the basis on which budgets and forecasts are prepared, the financial information that the our Chief Operating Decision Maker (“CODM”) reviews in evaluating company performance and determining how resources should be allocated, and how we release information to the public and analysts. Our CODM is Worthington Steel’s Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”).

The Separation

On December 1, 2023 (the “Separation Date”) at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time, Worthington Enterprises, Inc., an Ohio corporation formerly known as Worthington Industries, Inc. (“Worthington Enterprises” or “Former Parent”), completed the Separation into Worthington Steel as a stand-alone publicly traded company. The Separation was achieved through a tax-free pro rata distribution of 100% of the common shares of Worthington Steel to holders of record of Worthington Enterprises common shares (the “Distribution”) as of the close of business on November 21, 2023 (the “Record Date”). Each holder of record of Worthington Enterprises common shares received one common share of Worthington Steel for every one Worthington Enterprises common share held at the close of business on the Record Date. Worthington Enterprises retained no ownership interest in Worthington Steel following the Separation. In connection with the Separation, Worthington Steel entered into several agreements with Worthington Enterprises that govern the relationship between the parties following the Distribution, including a Separation and Distribution Agreement, Tax Matters Agreement, Employee Matters Agreement, Steel Supply and Services Agreement, and Transition Services Agreement.

Sources and Availability of Raw Materials

We have developed strong relationships with our mill suppliers, who provide the quality materials we need, meet our quality and service requirements, and are able to offer competitive terms with regard to quality, pricing, delivery, and volumes purchased.

The primary raw material we purchase is flat rolled steel. We purchase steel in large quantities at regular intervals from major steel mills, both domestic and foreign. The amount purchased from any supplier varies from year to year depending on a number of factors including market conditions, then-current relationships and prices and terms offered. In nearly all market conditions, steel is available from multiple suppliers and generally any supplier relationship or contract can and has been replaced with little or no significant interruption to our business. During fiscal 2025, we purchased approximately 2.44 million tons of steel (70% hot-rolled, 20% cold-rolled and 10% galvanized).

Steel is primarily purchased and processed based on specific customer orders. Raw materials are generally purchased in the open market on a negotiated basis. Supply contracts are also entered into, some of which have fixed pricing and some of which are indexed (monthly or quarterly). During fiscal 2025, we purchased steel from the following major suppliers, in alphabetical order: Cleveland-Cliffs Steel Inc.; NLMK Indiana LLC; North Star BlueScope Steel, LLC; Nucor Corporation; Steel Dynamics, Inc; and United States Steel Corporation.

For certain raw materials, such as, zinc, there are limited suppliers and our purchases are generally at market prices. However, historically, we have been able to replace our supplier relationships or contracts with little or no significant interruption to our business. Major suppliers of zinc in fiscal 2025 were, in alphabetical order: Glencore Ltd; Nexa Resources US Inc.; Ritchey Metals Company Inc.; Teck Resources Limited; and Trafigura Trading LLC. We believe our supplier relationships are generally favorable.

Technical Services

We recognize the importance of the metallurgical and technical aspects of our value-added steel products. We believe we are a leader in the flat rolled steel market for providing metallurgical and steel processing solutions to meet our customers’ customized material needs. We employ a staff of 20+ metallurgical engineers throughout the business and leverage their expertise to offer practical solutions on topics ranging from steelmaking and steel processing through downstream manufacturing. Our metallurgical engineers work in conjunction with internal quality teams to engage customers in problem solving, new product development and education. Laboratory facilities are equipped with a wide range of physical and chemical testing capabilities to support production, development needs, and high-level failure analyses. Tests are performed in accordance with specified industry standards. Data which is obtained either through testing or online measurement systems is routed through analytics tools and analyzed by the team for process improvement, product performance and consistent quality.

Our technical service personnel work in conjunction with our sales force to specify components and materials required to fulfill customer needs. Laboratory facilities also perform metallurgical and chemical testing as dictated by International Organization for Standardization (“ISO”), ASTM International, and other customer and industry specific requirements.

This comprehensive approach to technical services and support enhances our competitive position by ensuring high-quality products, strong customer relationships and continuous improvement.

Seasonality

Our operations have historically been subject to seasonal fluctuations that may impact our cash flows for a particular period. Our sales are generally strongest in the fourth quarter of the fiscal year when our business is normally operating at seasonal peaks, and our sales are generally weakest in the third quarter of the fiscal year, primarily due to reduced activity in the construction industry as a result of the colder, more inclement weather, as well as customer plant shutdowns in the automotive industry due to holidays.

Our Joint Ventures

As part of our strategy to selectively develop new products, markets, and processing capabilities and to expand our international presence, while sharing the risks and costs associated with those activities, we participate in four operating joint ventures. The following three joint ventures are consolidated due to our ability to control operating and capital decisions made in the ordinary course of business:

• WSCP is a 63%-owned joint venture that operates a pickling facility in Ohio. WSCP has no fixed duration and will operate in perpetuity until dissolved or otherwise terminated by its managers. WSCP’s operations are overseen by a supervisory board of five members, of which we are entitled to appoint three and the other member of WSCP is entitled to appoint two.
• Spartan is a 52%-owned joint venture that operates a cold-rolled, hot-dipped coating line for toll processing steel coils into galvanized, galvannealed and aluminized products intended primarily for the automotive industry. Spartan’s initial duration is until the earliest of (i) December 31, 2045, (ii) 90 days from the sale or disposition of substantially all of Spartan’s assets, (iii) the retirement of any member, and (iv) the voluntary or elective dissolution by one or more partners. Spartan is managed by a board of governors consisting of six members, of which we are entitled to appoint three.
• TWB is a 55%-owned joint venture that supplies light-weight tailor welded solutions, including laser welded blanks, tailor welded aluminum blanks, hot formed tailored welded blanks, laser welded coils and other laser welded products across North America for use primarily in the automotive industry for products such as inner-door panels, rails and pillars. TWB has no fixed duration and will operate until the earliest of (i) 90 days from the sale or other disposition of all or substantially all of TWB’s assets, (ii) the retirement of any member, and (iii) the date on which the members of TWB consent to the dissolution of the joint venture. TWB is managed by a board of managers consisting of seven managers, of which we are entitled to appoint four.

Our remaining operating joint venture, Serviacero Worthington, in which we own a 50% noncontrolling interest, is unconsolidated and operates three steel processing facilities located in Mexico. Serviacero Worthington provides steel processing services, such as pickling, blanking, slitting, multi-blanking and cutting-to-length, to customers in a variety of industries throughout North America, including automotive, appliance and heavy equipment. Serviacero Worthington has no fixed duration, and its operations shall continue to exist at the consent of the partners and may be extended indefinitely as mutually agreed. Serviacero Worthington is managed by a board of managers consisting of six managers, of which we are entitled to appoint three.

See “Note 3 – Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate” for additional information about our unconsolidated joint ventures.

Environmental Matters

Our manufacturing facilities, like those of similar industries making similar products, are subject to many federal, state, local and foreign laws, and regulations, including those relating to the protection of our employees and the environment. In addition to the requirements of the state and local governments of the communities in which we operate, we must comply with federal environmental regulations, the most significant of which are enforced by the EPA. We evaluate and implement ways to reduce emissions and waste and decrease costs related to compliance with environmental and other government regulations. The cost of such activities, compliance or capital expenditures for environmental control facilities necessary to meet regulatory requirements are not estimable but have not and are not anticipated to be material when compared with our overall costs and capital expenditures and, accordingly, are not anticipated to have a material effect on our financial position, results of operations, cash flows, capital expenditures, earnings or competitive position.

Twenty-two of our facilities hold the ISO 14001 certifications, a highly recognized global standard for an effective environmental management system and our remaining facilities are managed to similar standards.

Intellectual Property and Licenses

We own several patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets, and hold licenses to intellectual property owned by others. Although our patents, copyrights, trademarks, trade secrets, and other intellectual property rights are important to our success, we do not consider any single, or in the aggregate, patent, trademark, copyright, trade secret or license to be of material importance to our business.

Corporate Responsibility

Human Capital Management

Our commitment to social governance and sustainability includes putting people first by providing a supportive and inclusive environment built on a culture of engagement, and by working together to ensure the health and safety of our employees. At the corporate level, we maintain a fully dedicated department responsible for best-in-class environmental, health and safety initiatives and best practices across the Company.

As of May 31, 2025, we had approximately 4,800 employees and our unconsolidated joint venture employed approximately 500 additional individuals. Of the aggregate of those groups, approximately 22% of those individuals are represented by collective bargaining units, all of which are located outside of the United States and in jurisdictions where collective bargaining arrangements are customary. We believe that our open-door policy has created an environment which fosters open communication and serves to cultivate the good relationships we have with our employees, including those covered by collective bargaining units.

In line with our people-first philosophy, our employees have always been, and will always be, our most important asset. We operate under a set of core values that are rooted in our long-standing philosophy, which emphasizes the Golden Rule. These core values guide us as a company, including in our approach to people management. As such, we are continually focused on creating and maintaining a strong culture. Our culture provides employees with opportunities for personal and professional development, as well as community engagement, all of which we believe contribute to our overall success. We have repeatedly been recognized as a top place to work and believe we offer our employees competitive pay and benefits, as compared to others in our industry, all while focusing on safety, wellness, and promoting a diverse and inclusive culture.

Safety, Health and Wellness

We have always made the safety and well-being of our people a top priority, and we have regularly maintained an industry-leading safety record. For us, safety is about engagement, and our employees have adopted a culture where safety is everyone’s responsibility, not just the safety of our employees, but for the safety of everyone who enters our facilities. We also provide our employees and their families with access to what we believe are market competitive benefits, as compared to others in our industry, including a parental leave benefit that offers all new parents the opportunity for paid time off. We have a broad array of other employee centered-benefits and wellness programs, including fitness centers, free health screenings, health fairs, and other company-wide and location-specific wellness events and challenges. We believe our investments in safety, health and wellness are key to supporting and protecting our most important asset, our people.

In addition to the requirements of the state and local governments of the communities in which we operate, we must comply with federal health and safety regulations, the most significant of which are enforced by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (“OSHA”). We comply with and work to exceed all applicable worker safety regulations in the U.S. as governed by OSHA. Our U.S. facilities also hold certifications with various industry groups that require regular inspections including ISO. Our global sites meet or exceed all local regulations for worker safety and hold various accreditations, certifications, and registrations that require regular inspections.

Fifteen of our facilities hold ISO 45001 certifications, a highly recognized global standard for an effective Health and Safety Management System and our remaining facilities are managed to similar standards.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

We believe that fostering an inclusive environment is essential to our success. We are committed to ensuring that every employee feels respected, heard, and valued. Grounded in our Philosophy, we are building a culture where everyone belongs, unique perspectives are welcomed, and collaboration fuels innovation and delivers stronger results.

To further such efforts, we established a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council (the “Council”) chaired by out CEO. The Council implemented a strategy where diversity, equity and inclusion efforts are focused on strengthening our workforce, workplace, and community pillars. These pillars serve as a foundation for continually building and fostering an inclusive culture.

A vital part of that inclusive culture at Worthington Steel is our support for Employee Resource Groups (ERGs). These voluntary, employee-led groups work to foster a more welcoming workplace by uniting people with common interests, identities, or backgrounds. ERGs play a key role in shaping our culture, offering insight to leadership, building cross-functional relationships, and ensuring that all voices are recognized and empowered across the organization.

Our future results and the market price for the common shares are subject to numerous risks, many of which are driven by factors that we cannot control or predict. The following discussion, as well as other sections of this Form 10-K, including “PART II—Item 7. — Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” describe certain risks to our business, our results, our strategies and the common shares. Consideration should be given to the risk factors described below as well as those in the “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” section at the beginning of this Form 10-K, in conjunction with reviewing the forward-looking statements and other information contained in this Form 10-K. The risks described below are those that we have identified as material but are not the only risks and uncertainties facing us. Our business is also subject to general risks and uncertainties that affect many other companies, such as market conditions, economic conditions, geopolitical events, changes in laws, rules, regulations or accounting rules, fluctuations in interest rates, terrorism, war or conflicts, major health concerns, natural disasters or other disruptions of expected business conditions. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently believe are immaterial also may impair our business, including our results of operations, liquidity and financial condition.

Risks Related to Our Business

Economic or Industry Downturns and Weakness

Our net sales are heavily concentrated in the automotive and construction end markets, and a decline in those end markets may have an adverse impact on our results of operations and cash flows. The automotive and construction industries account for approximately 52.0% and 11.0%, respectfully, of our net sales, and reduced demand from these industries could adversely affect our business. An overall downturn in the general economy and/or in the countries in which we conduct business, a disruption in capital and credit markets, high inflation, high unemployment, reduced consumer confidence or other factors could cause reductions in demand from our end markets in general and, in particular, the automotive and construction end markets. If demand for the products we sell to the automotive, construction or other end markets which we supply were to be reduced, our financial results and cash flows could be negatively affected.

Financial difficulties and bankruptcy filings by our customers could have an adverse impact on our business. In past years, some customers have experienced, and some continue to experience, challenging financial conditions, whether due to a public health emergency, the war in Ukraine, inflationary pressures, increased competition, or otherwise. The financial difficulties of certain customers and/or their failure to obtain credit or otherwise improve their overall financial condition could result in changes within the markets we serve, including plant closings, decreased production, reduced demand, changes in product mix, unfavorable changes in the prices, terms or conditions we are able to obtain and other changes that may result in decreased purchases from us and otherwise negatively impact our business. These conditions also increase the risk that our customers may delay or default on their payment obligations to us. If the general economy or any of our markets decline, the risk of bankruptcy filings by and financial difficulties of our customers may increase. While we have taken and will continue to take steps intended to mitigate the impact of financial difficulties and potential bankruptcy filings by our customers, these matters could have a negative impact on our business.

Raw Material Pricing and Availability

Our operating results may be adversely affected by continued volatility in steel prices. Over the past few years, we have experienced volatility in steel prices due to supplier consolidation, tight mill orders due to a pandemic, the war in Ukraine and tariffs on foreign steel. If steel or other raw material prices were to decrease, competitive conditions or contractual obligations may impact how quickly we must reduce our prices to our customers, and we could be forced to use higher-priced raw materials then on hand to complete orders for which the selling prices have decreased, which results in inventory holding losses. Decreasing steel prices could also require us to write-down the value of our inventory to reflect current net realizable value.

Our operating results may be affected by fluctuations in raw material prices and our ability to pass on increases in raw material costs to our customers. Our principal raw material is flat-rolled steel, which we purchase from multiple primary steel producers. The steel industry as a whole has been cyclical, and at times availability and pricing can be volatile due to a number of factors beyond our control. These factors include general economic conditions, domestic and worldwide supply and demand, high inflation, the influence of hedge funds and other investment funds participating in commodity markets, curtailed production from major suppliers due to factors such as the closing or idling of facilities, public health emergencies, international conflicts, accidents or equipment breakdowns, repairs or catastrophic events, labor costs, shortages, strikes or other problems, competition, new laws and regulations, import duties, tariffs, energy costs, availability and cost of steel inputs (e.g., ore, scrap, coke and energy), foreign currency exchange rates and other factors described in the immediately following paragraph. This volatility, as well as any increases in raw material costs, could significantly affect our steel costs and adversely impact our financial results. To manage our exposure to market risk, where possible, we match our customer pricing terms to the pricing terms offered to us by our suppliers in order to minimize the impact of market fluctuations on our margins. However, should our suppliers increase the prices of our critical raw materials, we may not have alternative sources of supply. In addition, in an environment of increasing prices for steel and other raw materials, competitive conditions or contractual obligations may impact how much of the price increases we can pass on to our customers. To the extent we are unable to pass on future price increases in our raw materials to our customers, our financial results could be adversely affected.

The costs of manufacturing our products and/or our ability to meet our customers’ demands could be negatively impacted if we experience interruptions in deliveries of needed raw materials or supplies. If, for any reason, our supply of flat-rolled steel (including electrical steel) or other key raw materials, such as zinc, or other supplies is curtailed or we are otherwise unable to obtain the quantities we need at competitive prices, our business could suffer and our financial results could be adversely affected. Such interruptions could result from a number of factors, including a shortage of capacity in the supplier base of raw materials, energy or the inputs needed to make steel or other supplies, a failure of suppliers to fulfill their supply or delivery obligations, financial difficulties of suppliers resulting in the closing or idling of supplier facilities, other significant events affecting supplier facilities, significant weather events, those factors listed in the immediately preceding paragraph or other factors beyond our control. Further, the number of domestic suppliers has decreased in recent years due to industry consolidation and the financial difficulties of certain suppliers, and this consolidation may continue. However, historically we have been able to replace supplier relationships with little or no significant interruption to our business.

An increase in the spread between the price of steel and steel scrap prices can have a negative impact on our margins. No matter how efficient, our operations, which use steel as a raw material, create some amount of scrap. The expected price of scrap compared to the price of the steel raw material is factored into pricing. Generally, as the price of steel increases, the price of scrap increases by a similar amount. When increases in scrap prices do not keep pace with the increases in the price of the steel raw material, due to events such as a public health emergency or the war in Ukraine, it can have a negative impact on our margins.

Excess Capacity and Over-Production by Foreign Steel Producers or Decreases in Tariffs

Global steel-making capacity may exceed demand for steel products in some regions around the world. Rather than reducing employment by rationalizing capacity with consumption, we believe steel manufacturers in some countries (often with government assistance or subsidies in various forms) have periodically exported steel at prices which may not reflect their costs of production or capital. Excessive imports of steel into the U.S. have exerted, and may continue to exert, downward pressure on U.S. steel prices.

On February 1, 2025, President Trump issued executive orders imposing additional tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China (a 10% duty on Chinese imports and deferred action on Canada/Mexico) followed by retaliatory tariffs from China. On February 10, 2025, new Section 232 measures reinstated a blanket 25% tariff on all steel imports and raised aluminum tariffs from 10% to 25%, effective March 12, 2025, revoking prior country-specific exemptions and halting product exclusions.

On June 3, 2025, President Trump elevated these tariffs under Section 232 once again by signing a proclamation doubling the steel and aluminum duties to 50%, effective June 4, 2025. This escalation applies broadly to origin-based tariffs (steel, aluminum and derivatives), closes previously negotiated quotas and carve-outs (subject to limited U.K. exceptions until July 9, 2025), and eliminates stacking exceptions with other reciprocal tariffs.

We expect that these tariffs, while in effect, will discourage steel imports from non-exempt countries. If these or other tariffs or duties expire or if others are relaxed or repealed, or if relatively higher U.S. metal prices make it attractive for foreign metal producers to export their products to the U.S., despite the presence of duties or tariffs, the resurgence of substantial imports of foreign metal could create downward pressure on U.S. metal prices. If the Section 232 measures are removed or substantially lessened, whether through legal challenge, legislation, executive action or otherwise, imports of foreign metals would likely increase and metal prices in the U.S. would likely fall, which could materially adversely affect our financial results.

Climate change

Concern about climate change might result in new legal and regulatory requirements to reduce or mitigate the effects of climate change. While we believe our operations do not emit significant amounts of carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases, legal or regulatory changes related to climate change may result in higher prices for metal, higher prices for utilities required to run our facilities, higher fuel costs for us and our suppliers, increased compliance costs and other adverse impacts. We are actively working to support the legislated requirements in multiple jurisdictions including the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive and the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism in the European Union and California’s Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act and Climate-Related Financial Risk Act. These laws and regulations have, and will continue to have, the potential to impact our operations directly or indirectly as a result of required compliance by us and our suppliers.

There is a focus by governmental and non-governmental entities on sustainability matters. Any perception that we have failed to act responsibly regarding climate change could result in negative publicity and adversely affect our business and reputation.

There also has been stakeholder focus, including by governmental authorities, investors, customers, media and nongovernmental organizations, on environmental sustainability matters, such as climate change, the reduction of greenhouse gases and water consumption. Legislative, regulatory or other efforts to combat climate change or other environmental concerns could result in future increases in taxes, restrictions on or increases in the costs of supplies, transportation and utilities, any of which could increase our operating costs, and necessitate future investments in facilities and equipment. Further, our customers may impose emissions reduction or other environmental standards and requirements. As a result, we may experience increased compliance burdens and the sourcing of our products may be adversely affected. These risks also include the increased pressure to make commitments, set targets, or establish additional goals to take actions to meet them, which could expose us to market, operational, execution and reputational costs or risks.

Developing and acting on initiatives within the scope of social and environmental sustainability, and collecting, measuring and reporting environmental sustainability-related information and metrics can be costly, difficult and time consuming and is subject to evolving reporting standards. Further, statements about our social and environmental sustainability-related initiatives and goals, and progress against those goals, may be based on standards for measuring progress that are still developing, internal controls and processes that continue to evolve, and assumptions that are subject to change in the future. If our social and environmental sustainability-related data, processes and reporting are incomplete or inaccurate, or if we fail to achieve progress with respect to our goals within the scope of social and environmental sustainability on a timely basis, or at all, our reputation, business, financial performance and growth could be adversely affected.

Inventories

Our business could be harmed if we fail to maintain proper inventory levels. We are required to maintain sufficient inventories to accommodate the needs of our customers including, in many cases, short lead times and just-in-time delivery requirements. Although we typically have customer orders in hand prior to placement of our raw material orders, we anticipate and forecast customer demand. We purchase raw materials on a regular basis in an effort to maintain our inventory at levels that we believe are sufficient to satisfy the anticipated needs of our customers based upon orders, customer volume expectations, historic buying practices and market conditions. Inventory levels in excess of customer demand may result in the use of higher-priced inventory to fill orders reflecting lower selling prices, if raw material prices have significantly decreased. For example, if steel prices decrease, we could be forced to use higher-priced steel then on hand to complete orders for which the selling price has decreased. These events could adversely affect our financial results. Conversely, if we underestimate demand for our products or if our suppliers fail to supply a sufficient quantity of quality products in a timely manner, we may experience inventory shortages. Inventory shortages could result in unfilled orders, negatively impacting our customer relationships and resulting in lost revenues, which could harm our business and adversely affect our financial results.

Customers and Suppliers

The loss of significant volume from our key customers could adversely affect us. A significant loss of, or decrease in, business from any of our key customers could have an adverse effect on our sales and financial results if we cannot obtain replacement business. Also, our sales may be increasingly sensitive to deterioration in the financial condition of, or other adverse developments with respect to, one or more of our top customers. We generally do not have long-term contracts with our customers. As a result, although our customers periodically provide notice of their future product needs and purchases, they generally purchase our products on an order-by-order basis, and the relationship, as well as particular orders, can be terminated at any time.

Many of our key end markets, such as automotive and construction, are cyclical in nature. Cyclical markets can be impacted by both market demand and raw material supply, particularly with respect to steel. The demand for our products is directly related to, and quickly impacted by, customer demand in our end markets, which can change as the result of changes in the general U.S. or worldwide economies and other factors beyond our control. Adverse changes in demand or pricing can have a negative effect on our business and results of operations.

We are unable to predict the duration of the current economic conditions or the magnitude or timing of changes in economic activities, which could adversely affect our customers and, in turn, our business. Our business depends on demand from customers across various end markets, including automotive, construction, and manufacturing. Demand in these markets can be impacted by changes in domestic and global economic conditions, supply chain disruptions, or shifts in trade policy, including the imposition of or changes to tariffs and trade barriers. Recent escalations in U.S. trade measures—including the reinstatement and increase of tariffs under Section 232—have led to heightened uncertainty in customer sourcing strategies, build schedules, and order patterns, particularly in the automotive sector. This uncertainty has made it difficult to anticipate future customer requirements, which could result in fluctuations in our volumes, operating rates, and financial performance. The magnitude, timing and duration of these economic and policy-driven shifts are uncertain and could continue to adversely affect our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition. While we monitor market developments, the pace, timing, and extent of economic improvement remains uncertain and is outside of our control.

Significant reductions in sales to any of the Detroit Three automakers, or to our automotive-related customers in general, could have a negative impact on our business. Approximately 52% of our net sales are to automotive-related customers. Although we do sell to the domestic operations of foreign automakers and their suppliers, a significant portion of our automotive sales are to the Detroit Three automakers and their suppliers. A reduction in sales for any of the Detroit Three automakers, as well as additional or prolonged idling of production facilities in response supply chain constraints, has negatively impacted and could continue to negatively impact our business. In addition, some automakers have begun using greater amounts of aluminum and smaller proportions of steel in some new models, thereby reducing the demand for certain of our products.

Any future United Auto Workers (“UAW”) strikes against the Detroit Three automakers could have material adverse effects on our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows. The automotive industry is one of the largest consumers of flat-rolled steel, and our largest end market. While the duration and scope of any future UAW strikes against the Detroit Three automakers, as well as the corresponding impact on the business of suppliers to the Detroit Three automakers and the impact on our own business, financial position, results of operations and cash flow, are impossible to predict at this time, the prolonged idling of our customers’ production facilities in response to strikes could have a material adverse impact on us. The UAW strike in our fiscal 2024 had minimal impact on our business due to the limited duration and scope of the strike and our ability to plan accordingly. The extent to which future UAW strikes will impact us will depend on future developments, which cannot be predicted and are highly uncertain. The ultimate impact on our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows will depend on factors beyond our control including the duration and scope of the strikes.

The closing, idling or relocation of our customers’ facilities could adversely affect us. Our ability to meet delivery requirements and the overall cost of our products as delivered to customer facilities are important competitive factors. If customers close or move their production facilities further away from our manufacturing facilities which can supply them, it could have an adverse effect on our ability to meet competitive conditions, which could result in the loss of sales. Likewise, if customers move their production facilities outside the U.S., it could result in the loss of potential sales for us. If customers idle their facilities, it may reduce or delay our sales, resulting in a negative impact on our results of operations and financial condition.

Sales conflicts with our customers and/or suppliers may adversely impact us. In some instances, we may compete with one or more of our customers and/or suppliers in pursuing the same business. Such conflicts may strain our relationships with the parties involved, which could adversely affect our future business with them.

The closing, idling or relocation of our suppliers’ manufacturing facilities could have a negative impact on us. If delivery from a supplier is disrupted, particularly with respect to certain types of specialty steel, it may be more difficult to obtain an alternate supply than in the past. These closures and disruptions could also have an adverse effect on our suppliers’ on-time delivery performance, which could have an adverse effect on our ability to meet our own delivery commitments and may have other adverse effects on our business. If suppliers relocate their manufacturing facilities farther from our locations, it may result in increased costs to us and/or reduced availability of key supplies which may have a negative impact on our results of operations and financial condition.

The loss of key supplier relationships could adversely affect us. Over the years, we have developed relationships with certain steel and other suppliers which have been beneficial to us by providing more assured delivery and a more favorable all-in cost. If any of those relationships were disrupted, it could have an adverse effect on delivery times and the overall cost, quality and availability of our products or raw materials, which could have a negative impact on our business. In addition, we do not have long-term contracts with any of our suppliers. If we are unable to obtain sufficient amounts of steel and other materials at competitive prices and on a timely basis from our traditional suppliers, we may be unable to obtain these materials from alternative sources at competitive prices to meet our delivery schedules, which could have a material adverse impact on our results of operations.

The U.S. federal government has imposed tariffs on certain foreign goods, including on certain steel products imported into the U.S. and those tariffs may adversely impact our business and financial condition. Although such steel tariffs may benefit portions of our business, these tariffs, as well as country-specific or product-specific exemptions, may also lead to steel price fluctuations and retaliatory actions from foreign governments and/or modifications to the purchasing patterns of our customers that could adversely affect our business or the steel industry as a whole. In particular, certain foreign governments, including Canada, China and Mexico, have instituted or are considering imposing tariffs on certain U.S. goods, which previously contributed to increased raw material prices, but did not have a significant or recurring impact on our business. Restrictions on trade with foreign countries, imposition of customs duties or further modifications to U.S. international trade policy have the potential to disrupt our supply chain or the supply chains of our customers and to adversely impact demand for our products, our costs, customers, suppliers and/or the U.S. economy or certain sectors thereof, potentially leading to negative effects on our business and financial condition.

Competition

Our business is highly competitive, and increased competition may cause decreased demand, decreased market share and/or reduced prices for our products and services and could negatively impact our financial results. Generally, the markets in which we conduct business are highly competitive. Our competitors include a variety of domestic and foreign companies in all major markets. Competition for most of our products is primarily on the basis of price, product quality and our ability to meet delivery requirements. Our business has been subject to increasing consolidation of suppliers. Depending on a variety of factors, including raw material, energy, labor and capital costs, freight availability and government subsidies of foreign steel producers or competitors, our business may be materially adversely affected by competitive forces. Competition may also increase if suppliers to or customers in the steel industry begin to more directly compete with our business through new facilities, acquisitions or otherwise. As noted above, we may have conflicts with our customers or suppliers who, in some cases, supply the same products and services as we do. Increased competition could cause us to lose market share, increase expenditures, lower our margins or offer additional services at a higher cost to us, which could adversely impact our financial results.

Material or Component Substitution

If steel prices increase compared to certain substitute materials, the demand for our products could be negatively impacted, which could have an adverse effect on our financial results. In certain applications, steel competes with other materials, such as aluminum (particularly in the automotive industry), cement and wood (particularly in the construction industry), and composites. Prices of all of these materials fluctuate widely, and differences between the prices of these materials and the price of steel may adversely affect demand for our products and/or encourage material substitution, which could adversely affect the prices of and demand for our steel products. The higher cost of steel relative to certain other materials may make material substitution more attractive for certain uses and result in our customers reducing their purchases from us, which would negatively impact our results of operations.

If government fuel efficiency and/or emissions standards for automobiles result in the substitution of other materials for steel, or the substitution of electric motors for internal combustion engines, demand for our products could be negatively impacted, which could have an adverse effect on our financial results. Due to government requirements that manufacturers increase the fuel efficiency of automobiles, the automotive industry is exploring alternative materials to steel in order to decrease weight and increase mileage. In addition, in an effort to reduce emissions, the automotive industry is also shifting toward products that rely on electric motors instead of internal combustion engines. Although our product offerings include certain lightweighting solutions and electric motor components, the substitution of lighter weight material for steel and/or electric motors for internal combustion engines in automobiles could adversely affect prices of and demand for certain of our steel products. Conversely, if government fuel efficiency and/or emission standards for automobiles are reduced or eliminated, demand for our lightweighting solutions and electric motor components could be reduced over time, which would negatively impact our results of operations.

Freight and Energy

Increasing freight and energy costs could increase our operating costs or the costs of our suppliers, who may seek to pass those increased costs on to us, all of which could have an adverse effect on our financial results. The availability and cost of freight and energy, such as electricity, natural gas and diesel fuel, are important in the manufacture and transport of our supplies and products. Our operations consume substantial amounts of energy, and our operating costs generally increase when energy costs rise. Factors that may affect our energy costs include significant increases in fuel, oil or natural gas prices, unavailability of electrical power or other energy sources due to droughts, hurricanes or other natural causes or due to shortages resulting from insufficient supplies to serve customers, or interruptions in energy supplies due to equipment failure, international conflict or other causes. During periods of increasing energy and freight costs, we may be unable to fully recover our operating cost increases or the increases in the costs of our supplies through price increases to our customers without reducing demand for our products. Our financial results could be adversely affected if we are unable to pass all of the cost increases on to our customers or if we are unable to obtain the necessary freight and/or energy. Also, increasing energy costs could put a strain on the transportation of our materials and products if the increased costs force certain transporters to discontinue their operations.

We depend on third parties for freight services and increases in the cost or the lack of availability of freight services can adversely affect our operations. We rely primarily on third parties for transportation of our products as well as delivery of our raw materials, primarily by truck. If, due to a lack of freight services, raw materials or supplies are not delivered to us in a timely manner, we may be unable to manufacture and deliver our products to meet customer demand. Likewise, if due to a lack of freight services, we cannot deliver our products in a timely manner, it could harm our reputation, negatively affect our customer relationships and have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. In addition, any increase in the cost of the transportation of raw materials or our products, as a result of increases in fuel or labor costs, higher demand for logistics services, international conflict or otherwise, may adversely affect our results of operations as we may not be able to pass such cost increases on to our customers.

Public Health Emergencies

Public health emergencies could have a material adverse effect on our business financial position, results of operations and cash flows. Our operations expose us to risks associated with epidemics and other public health emergencies. Impacts of future public health emergencies may include, without limitation, potential significant volatility or continued decreases in the demand for our products, changes in customer and consumer behavior and preferences, disruptions in or additional closures of our manufacturing operations or those of our customers and suppliers, disruptions within our supply chain, limitations on our employees’ ability to work and travel, potential financial difficulties of customers and suppliers, slower payment of accounts receivable and potential increases in uncollectible accounts receivable, significant changes in economic or political conditions, and related volatility in the financial and commodity markets, including volatility in raw material and other input costs. The extent to which public health emergencies impact our business will depend on future developments, which cannot be predicted and are highly uncertain. Despite our efforts to manage the impacts, the degree to which public health emergencies and related actions ultimately impact our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows will depend on factors beyond our control including the duration, extent and severity of any future public health emergency, the actions taken to contain the future public health emergencies and mitigate their public health effects, the impact on the U.S. and global economies and demand for our products, and to what extent normal economic and operating conditions resume. Future disruption to the global economy, as well as to the end markets our business serves, could result in material adverse effects on our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine may adversely affect our business and results of operations.

Since early 2022, Russia and Ukraine have been engaged in active armed conflict. The length, impact and outcome of the ongoing conflict and its potential impact on our business is highly volatile and difficult to predict. It has caused, and could continue to cause, significant market and other disruptions, including significant volatility in commodity prices and supply of energy resources, instability in financial markets, supply chain interruptions, political and social instability, trade disputes or trade barriers, changes in consumer or purchaser preferences, and increases in cyberattacks and espionage.

Further, the broader consequences of the current conflict between Russia and Ukraine may also have the effect of heightening many other risks disclosed herein, any of which could materially and adversely affect our business and results of operations. Such risks include, but are not limited to, adverse effects on global macroeconomic conditions; increased volatility in the price and demand of iron, steel, oil, natural gas, and other commodities; disruptions in global supply chains; and exposure to foreign currency fluctuations and potential constraints or disruption in the capital markets and our sources of liquidity.

We do not conduct business, either directly or indirectly, in areas impacted by the conflict and, as such, we believe our exposure is principally limited to the impact of the war on macroeconomic conditions, including volatility in commodity and energy prices and supply. Our business was temporarily impacted in the spring of 2022, primarily in the form of higher market prices for steel due to a temporary supply disruption in a key input for our suppliers (pig iron), which has subsequently been resourced by our suppliers.

Information Systems and Cybersecurity

We are subject to information system security risks and systems integration issues that could disrupt our operations. We are dependent upon information technology and networks in connection with a variety of business activities including the distribution of information internally and to our customers and suppliers. This information technology is subject to potential damage or interruption from a variety of sources, including, without limitation, systems failures, computer viruses, security breaches, technology obsolescence, and natural disasters. We could also be adversely affected by system or network disruptions if new or upgraded business management systems are defective, not installed properly or not properly integrated into operations.

Security breaches of our information systems could result in unauthorized misappropriation, disclosure or destruction of confidential or proprietary information, production downtime and/or the loss of the functionality of our systems. These risks may be increased as more employees continue to work remotely. Various measures have been implemented to manage our risks related to information system and network disruptions and to prevent attempts to gain unauthorized access to our information systems. While we undertake mitigating activities to counter these risks, there can be no assurance that such activities will be sufficient to prevent cyberattacks or security breaches or mitigate all potential risks to our systems, networks and data. A system failure could negatively impact our operations and financial results and cyberattacks could threaten the integrity of our trade secrets and sensitive intellectual property.

As cybersecurity threats continue to evolve and become more sophisticated, including through the use of artificial intelligence, we may be required to incur significant costs and invest additional resources to protect against and, if required, remediate the damage caused by such disruptions or system failures in the future. The potential consequences of a material cybersecurity attack include reputational damage, investigations and/or adverse proceedings with regulators and enforcement agencies, litigation with third parties, disruption to our systems (including production capabilities), unauthorized release of confidential, personally identifiable or otherwise protected information, corruption of data, and increased cybersecurity protection and remediation costs, which in turn could adversely affect our competitiveness, results of operations and financial condition. Insurance coverage for cyberattacks may become unavailable, may not cover the types of losses we may incur, and may be inadequate in amount to cover liabilities resulting from a cyberattack. Refer to Item 1C: “Cybersecurity” for further information on our Cybersecurity processes, policies, and programs.

Artificial Intelligence Technologies and Machine Learning

We have begun using commercially available artificial intelligence tools (“AI”) and traditional machine learning (“ML”) technologies to enhance productivity and support internal decision-making. We are not engaged in high-risk or autonomous AI systems that materially influence customer-facing decisions or critical infrastructure. As we continue to evaluate and expand these tools across our workforce, their use presents a number of risks and uncertainties.

Some AI tools, particularly generative models, may generate outputs that are not easily auditable or explainable, which could impact the reliability of internal analyses or recommendations if not subject to appropriate human oversight. Reliance on flawed outputs could adversely impact business decisions, internal analyses, and operational workflows. Additionally, the use of AI to process sensitive, proprietary, or personal data introduces cybersecurity and data privacy risks, including the potential for data leakage, unauthorized access, or unintended disclosure, particularly when integrated with third-party platforms or cloud-based services.

The legal and regulatory landscape for AI is evolving rapidly and may impose future compliance obligations or restrictions. Additionally, reliance on third-party AI providers could expose us to service disruptions, quality concerns, or liability for unintended consequences. If not effectively managed, these risks could adversely affect our operations, reputation, or financial results.

We are actively building enterprise governance structures, such as a Technology Governance Committee and a Data Asset and Information Management program, to help ensure responsible, secure, and ethical use of AI and data assets across the business.

Business Disruptions

Disruptions to our business or the business of our customers or suppliers could adversely impact our operations and financial results. Business disruptions, including delayed or insufficient materials resulting from shortages of supply or transportation, severe weather events (such as hurricanes, tsunamis, earthquakes, tornados, floods, droughts and blizzards), casualty events (such as explosions, fires or material equipment breakdown), acts of terrorism, international conflicts, labor disruptions, the idling of facilities due to reduced demand (resulting from a downturn in economic activity or otherwise), public health emergencies or other health crises, or other events, could cause interruptions to our business as well as the operations of our customers and suppliers. Additionally, unexpected extended equipment downtime on certain of our plants’ specialized equipment, including galvanizing lines and presses, could cause interruptions to our ability to meet customer requirements. While we maintain insurance coverage that may offset some losses relating to certain types of these events, losses from business disruptions could have an adverse effect on our operations and financial results, and we could be adversely impacted to the extent any such losses are not covered by insurance or cause some other adverse impact to us.

Foreign Operations

Economic, political and other risks associated with foreign operations could adversely affect our financial results. Although the substantial majority of our business activity takes place in the U.S., we derive a portion of our revenues and earnings from operations in foreign countries, which is expected to increase with our investment in foreign locations. As a result, we are subject to risks associated with doing business internationally. The risks of doing business in foreign countries include, among other factors: the potential for adverse changes in the local political climate, in diplomatic relations between foreign countries and the U.S. or in government policies, laws or regulations; international conflicts; terrorist activity that may cause social disruption; logistical and communications challenges; costs of complying with a variety of laws and regulations; difficulty in staffing and managing geographically diverse operations; deterioration of foreign economic conditions; inflation and fluctuations in interest rates; foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations; foreign exchange restrictions; differing local business practices and cultural considerations; restrictions on imports and exports or sources of supply, including energy and raw materials; changes in duties, quotas, tariffs, taxes or other protectionist measures; and potential issues related to matters covered by the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, regulations related to import/export controls, the Office of Foreign Assets Control sanctions program, anti-boycott provisions or similar laws. We believe that our business activities outside of the U.S. involve a higher degree of risk than our domestic activities, and any one or more of these factors could adversely affect our operating results and financial condition. In addition, global and regional economic conditions and the volatility of worldwide capital and credit markets have significantly impacted and may continue to significantly impact our foreign customers and markets. These factors may result in decreased demand in our foreign operations. Refer to the “Economic or Industry Downturns and Weakness” risk factors herein for additional information concerning the impact of the global economic conditions and the volatility of capital and credit markets on our business.

Joint Ventures and Investments

A change in the relationship between the members of any of our joint ventures may have an adverse effect on that joint venture and our financial results. We have been successful in the development and operation of various joint ventures. We believe an important element in the success of any joint venture is a solid relationship between the members of that joint venture. If there is a change in ownership, a change of control, a change in management or management philosophy, a change in business strategy or another event with respect to a member of a joint venture that adversely impacts the relationship between the joint venture members, it could adversely impact that joint venture. The other members in our joint ventures may also, as a result of financial or other reasons, be unable or unwilling to support actions that we believe are in the best interests of the respective joint ventures. In addition, joint ventures necessarily involve special risks. Whether or not we hold a majority interest or maintain operational control in a joint venture, the other members in our joint ventures may have economic or business interests or goals that are inconsistent with our interests or goals. For example, because they are joint ventures, we do not have full control of every aspect of the joint venture’s business and/or certain significant decisions concerning the joint venture, which may require certain approvals from the other members in our joint ventures, and the other members in our joint ventures may be unwilling or unable to support actions that we believe to be in our best interests, may take action contrary to our policies or objectives with respect to our investments, or may otherwise be unable or unwilling to support actions that we believe are in the best interests of the respective joint venture, each of which could have an adverse effect on that joint venture and our financial results. Where we do not hold a majority interest in a joint venture (i.e., the unconsolidated joint venture Serviacero Worthington in which we own a 50% noncontrolling interest), our ability to control the direction and operations of that joint venture is limited and our investment in that joint venture is significantly dependent on the other member of the joint venture. The failure of the other member of the unconsolidated joint venture to properly manage and operate the joint venture could have an adverse effect on that joint venture and our financial results.

Acquisitions and Equity Investments

We may be unable to successfully consummate, manage or integrate our acquisitions or other equity investments or our acquisitions and investments may not meet our expectations. We may from time to time seek attractive opportunities to acquire businesses, enter into joint ventures and make other investments that are complementary to our existing strengths. There are no assurances, however, that any acquisition or investment opportunities will arise or, if they do, that they will be consummated, or that any needed additional financing for such opportunities will be available on satisfactory terms when required. In addition, acquisitions and investments involve risks that the businesses acquired or in which we invest will not perform in accordance with our expectations, that business judgments concerning the value, strengths and weaknesses of businesses will prove incorrect, that we may assume unknown liabilities from the seller, that the businesses may not be integrated successfully and that the acquisitions and investments may strain our management resources or divert management’s attention from other business concerns.

International acquisitions and investments may present unique challenges and increase our exposure to the risks associated with foreign operations and countries. Also, failure to successfully integrate any of our acquisitions may cause significant operating inefficiencies and could adversely affect our operations and financial condition. Even if the operations of an acquisition are integrated successfully, we may fail to realize the anticipated benefits of the acquisition, including the synergies, cost savings or growth opportunities that we expect. These benefits may not be achieved within the anticipated timeframe, or at all. Failing to realize the benefits anticipated from an acquisition or investment could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Capital Expenditures and Capital Resources

Our business requires capital investment and maintenance expenditures, and our capital resources may not be adequate to provide for all of our cash requirements. Many of our operations are capital intensive. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 2025, our total capital expenditures, were approximately $130.4 million. Additionally, as of May 31, 2025, we were obligated under lease agreements to make aggregate operating lease payments of $94.1 million. Our business also requires expenditures for maintenance of our facilities. Additionally, anticipated growth in the electrical steel market will require a significant amount of strategic capital expenditures to meet those market growth expectations. Given the potential for challenges, uncertainty and volatility in the domestic and global economies and financial markets, there can be no assurance that our capital resources will be adequate to provide for all of our cash requirements.

Our significant strategic capital investments may not achieve their intended return on investment, which could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. We have committed and deployed significant capital to strategic growth initiatives, including large-scale plant expansions in Mexico and Canada. These projects are intended to increase our processing capacity and support anticipated growth in markets such as electrical steel. The successful performance of these investments depends on achieving the anticipated customer demand to support profitable utilization of these new facilities. There can be no assurance that market demand will materialize at levels sufficient to support the expected volumes, margins, or timing necessary to achieve our internal forecasts. If we are unable to secure sufficient customer orders or if demand for our products grows at a slower rate than expected, the newly expanded capacity may be underutilized. This could result in a lower-than-expected return on investment, adversely impacting our profitability and potentially reducing the effectiveness of our capital allocation strategy.

Capital Structure

While we expect to utilize our Revolving Credit Facility for certain growth initiatives, larger-scale opportunities may require access to alternative funding sources, which could be difficult. We expect to finance our growth initiatives through borrowings under our ABL Credit Facility, which matures on November 30, 2028. However, our ABL Credit Facility may not be sufficient or available to finance our growth initiatives, and we may have to find additional sources of financing. It may be difficult for us in the future to obtain the necessary funds and liquidity on terms acceptable to us, or at all, to run and expand our business.

Increased leverage and borrowing rates could adversely impact our business and results of operations. We may also incur additional indebtedness in the future. The terms of the Revolving Credit Facility restrict but do not prohibit us from doing so, and the indebtedness incurred in compliance with these restrictions could be substantial. If new indebtedness is added to our current debt levels, the related risks that we now face could intensify.

Our ability to make payments on our indebtedness depends on our ability to generate cash in the future. Accordingly, we will have to generate significant cash flows from operations to meet our debt service requirements. If we do not generate sufficient cash flow to meet our debt service and working capital requirements, we may be required to seek additional capital, reduce capital expenditures, restructure or refinance all or a portion of our existing indebtedness, or sell assets. Moreover, insufficient cash flow may make it more difficult for us to obtain financing on terms that are acceptable to us, or at all.

Because the Revolving Credit Facility bears interest at rates that fluctuate with changes in certain prevailing short-term interest rates, we are vulnerable to interest rate increases. An increase in interest rates would increase our interest expense on the Revolving Credit Facility. If interest rates rise in the future, we could be unable to service our debt, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.

Difficult Financial Markets

If we are required to raise capital in the future, we could face higher borrowing costs, less available capital, more stringent terms and tighter covenants or, in extreme conditions, an inability to raise capital. Although we currently have cash reserves, as well as adequate borrowing availability for our existing business under our existing Revolving Credit Facility and should be able to access other capital if needed, should those facilities become unavailable due to covenant or other defaults, or should financial markets tighten so that we otherwise cannot raise capital outside our existing facilities, or the terms under which we do so change, we may be negatively impacted. Any adverse change in our access to capital or the terms of our borrowings, including increased costs, could have a negative impact on our financial condition.

Guidance Regarding Future Performance

We may release guidance regarding our anticipated future performance and such guidance may prove to be inaccurate. Such guidance, which consists of forward-looking statements, is qualified by and subject to various assumptions and estimates, including the information included in our annual reports on Form 10-K and our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. Such assumptions and estimates are inherently subject to a variety of uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond our control and are based upon expectations with respect to future decisions, some of which will change. Guidance is necessarily speculative in nature, and it can be expected that some or all of the assumptions of the guidance furnished by us will not materialize or will vary significantly from actual results. Accordingly, our guidance is only an estimate of what management believes is realizable as of the date of release. Actual results will vary from the guidance. Any failure to successfully implement our operating strategy or the occurrence of any of the risks described in our annual reports on Form 10-K or our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q could cause actual operating results to differ from the guidance, and such differences may be adverse and material. Accordingly, investors are urged not to place undue reliance on guidance.

Legal Proceedings

We may be subject to legal proceedings or investigations, the resolution of which could negatively affect our results of operations and liquidity. Our results of operations or liquidity could be affected by an adverse ruling in any legal proceedings or investigations which may be pending against us or filed against us in the future. We are also subject to a variety of legal and compliance risks, including, without limitation, potential claims relating to product liability, privacy and information security, health and safety, labor and employment, environmental matters, taxes and compliance with U.S. and foreign export laws, anti-bribery laws, competition laws and sales and trade practices. While we believe that we have adopted appropriate risk management and compliance programs to address and reduce these risks, the global and diverse nature of our operations means that these risks will continue to exist and additional legal proceedings and contingencies may arise from time to time. The insurance we maintain may not be adequate or available to protect us in the event of a claim or its coverage may be limited, canceled or otherwise terminated, or the amount of our insurance may be less than the related impact on our enterprise value after a loss. As appropriate, we establish reserves based on our assessment of contingencies, including contingencies for claims asserted against us in connection with certain legal proceedings. Adverse developments in legal proceedings may affect our assessment and estimates of the loss contingency recorded as a reserve and require us to make payments in excess of our reserves, which could negatively affect our operations, financial results and cash flows. An adverse ruling or settlement or an unfavorable change in laws, rules or regulations could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Claims and Insurance

Adverse claims experience, to the extent not covered by insurance, may have an adverse effect on our financial results. We self-insure most of our risks for product recall and pollution liability. We also self-insure a significant portion of our potential liability for workers’ compensation, product liability, general liability, property liability, cyber liability, automobile liability and employee medical claims, and in order to reduce risk for these liabilities, we purchase insurance from highly rated, licensed insurance carriers that cover most claims in excess of the applicable deductible or retained amounts. We also maintain reserves for the estimated cost to resolve certain open claims that have been made against us, as well as an estimate of the cost of claims that have been incurred but not reported. The occurrence of significant claims, our failure to adequately reserve for such claims, a significant cost increase to maintain our insurance or the failure of our insurance providers to perform could have an adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations.

Accounting and Tax-Related Estimates

We are required to make accounting and tax-related estimates, assumptions and judgments in preparing our combined financial statements, and actual results may differ materially from the estimates, assumptions and judgments that we use. In preparing our combined financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. (“GAAP”), we are required to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the accounting for and recognition of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses. These estimates and assumptions must be made because certain information that is used in the preparation of our combined financial statements is dependent on future events or cannot be calculated with a high degree of precision from data available to us. In some cases, these estimates and assumptions are particularly difficult to determine and we must exercise significant judgment. Some of the estimates, assumptions and judgments having the greatest amount of uncertainty, subjectivity and complexity are related to our accounting for bad debts, returns and allowances, inventory, self-insurance reserves, derivatives, stock-based compensation, deferred tax assets and liabilities and asset impairments. Our actual results may differ materially from the estimates, assumptions and judgments that we use, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Principal Shareholder

The principal shareholder of Worthington Steel may have the ability to exert significant influence in matters requiring a shareholder vote and could delay, deter or prevent a change in control of Worthington Steel. Pursuant to the charter documents of Worthington Steel, certain matters such as those in which a person would attempt to acquire or take control of Worthington Steel, must be approved by the vote of the holders of common shares representing at least 75% of Worthington Steel’s outstanding voting power. Approximately 34% of the outstanding common shares are beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, by John P. McConnell. As a result of his beneficial ownership of these common shares, Mr. McConnell may have the ability to exert significant influence in these matters and other proposals upon which shareholders may vote.

Employees

The loss of, or inability to attract and retain, qualified personnel could adversely affect our business. Our ability to successfully operate, grow our business and implement our business strategies is largely dependent on the efforts, abilities and services of our employees. The loss of employees or our inability to attract, train and retain additional personnel could reduce the competitiveness of our business or otherwise impair our operations or prospects. Our future success will also depend, in part, on our ability to attract and retain qualified personnel, including engineers and other skilled technicians, who have experience in the application of our products and are knowledgeable about our business, markets and products.

The loss of senior management or other key employees, or failure to implement effective succession planning strategies, may have a material adverse impact on our business. We cannot assure that we will be able to retain our existing senior management personnel or other key employees or attract additional qualified personnel when needed. The loss of any member of our management team could adversely impact our business and operations. We have not entered into any formal employment contracts with or other stand-alone change in control provisions relative to our executive officers. However, we do have certain change in control provisions in our various compensation plans. We may modify our management structure from time to time or reduce our overall workforce, which may create marketing, operational and other business risks. If we lose members of our management team or other key employees and fail to implement effective succession plans, our business and results of operations may be negatively impacted.

Environmental, Health and Safety

We may incur additional costs related to environmental and health and safety matters. Our operations and facilities are subject to a variety of federal, state, local and foreign laws and regulations relating to the protection of the environment and human health and safety. Compliance with these laws and regulations and any changes therein may sometimes involve substantial operating costs and capital expenditures, and any failure to maintain or achieve compliance with these laws and regulations or with the permits required for our operations could result in increased costs and capital expenditures and potentially fines and civil or criminal sanctions, third-party claims for property damage or personal injury, cleanup costs or temporary or permanent discontinuance of operations. Over time, we and predecessor operators of our facilities have generated, used, handled and disposed of hazardous and other regulated wastes. Environmental liabilities, including cleanup obligations, could exist at our facilities or at off-site locations where materials from our operations were disposed of or at facilities we have divested, which could result in future expenditures that cannot be currently quantified and which could reduce our profits and cash flow. We may be held strictly liable for any contamination of these sites, and the amount of any such liability could be material. Under the joint and several liability principle of certain environmental laws, we may be held liable for all remediation costs at a particular site, even with respect to contamination for which we are not responsible. In addition, changes in environmental and human health and safety laws, rules, regulations or enforcement policies could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Seasonality

Our operations have historically been subject to seasonal fluctuations that may impact our cash flows for a particular period. Our sales are generally strongest in the fourth quarter of the fiscal year when our business is normally operating at seasonal peaks, and our sales are generally weakest in the third quarter of the fiscal year, primarily due to reduced activity in the construction industry as a result of the colder, more inclement weather throughout much of the U.S., as well as customer plant shutdowns in the automotive industry due to holidays. Our quarterly results may also be affected by the timing of large customer orders. Consequently, our cash flow from operations may fluctuate significantly from quarter to quarter. If, as a result of any such fluctuation, our quarterly cash flows were significantly reduced, we may be unable to service our indebtedness or maintain compliance with certain covenants under the documents governing our indebtedness. A default under any of the documents governing our indebtedness could prevent us from borrowing additional funds, limit our ability to pay interest or principal and allow our lenders to declare the amounts outstanding to be immediately due and payable and to exercise certain other remedies.

Risks Related to the Separation and Our Relationship with the Former Parent

We have limited history of operating as a separate, publicly traded company, and our historical financial information prior to the Separation is not necessarily representative of the results that we would have achieved as a separate, publicly traded company and may not be a reliable indicator of our future results. The historical information about us in this Form 10-K, for periods prior to the Separation, refers to our business as operated by and integrated with the Former Parent. Our historical financial information, prior to the Separation, included in this Form 10-K is derived from the consolidated financial statements and accounting records of the Former Parent. Accordingly, the historical financial information, prior to the Separation, included in this Form 10-K does not necessarily reflect the financial condition, results of operations or cash flows that we would have achieved as a separate, publicly traded company during the periods presented or those that we will achieve in the future primarily as a result of the factors described below.

• Prior to the Separation, our business was operated by the Former Parent as part of its broader corporate organization, rather than as a separate, publicly traded company. The Former Parent, or one of its affiliates, performed various corporate functions for us such as legal, treasury, accounting, internal audit, human resources and finance. Our historical financial results reflect allocations of corporate expenses from the Former Parent for such functions and are likely to be less than the expenses we would have incurred had we operated as a separate publicly traded company. Following the Separation, our cost related to such functions previously performed by the Former Parent may therefore increase.
• Prior to the Separation, our business was integrated with the other businesses of the Former Parent. Historically, we shared economies of scope and scale in costs, employees, vendor relationships and customer relationships. Although we entered into transition agreements with the Former Parent, these arrangements may not fully capture the benefits that we enjoyed as a result of being integrated with the Former Parent and may result in us paying higher charges than in the past for these services. This could have an adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition following the completion of the Separation.
• Generally, our working capital requirements and capital for our general corporate purposes, including acquisitions and capital expenditures, were satisfied as part of the corporate-wide cash management policies of the Former Parent. As a result of the Separation, we may need to obtain additional financing from banks, through public offerings or private placements of debt or equity securities, strategic relationships or other arrangements.
• As a result of the Separation, the cost of capital for our business may be higher than the Former Parent’s cost of capital prior to the Separation.
• Our historical financial information prior to the Separation does not reflect the debt or the associated interest expense that we expected to incur after the Separation.

Potential indemnification obligations to the Former Parent pursuant to the Separation and Distribution Agreement could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. The Separation and Distribution Agreement, among other things, provides for indemnification obligations (for uncapped amounts) designed to make us financially responsible for all liabilities that the Former Parent may incur relating to our business activities (as currently and historically conducted), whether incurred prior to or after the Separation. If we are required to indemnify the Former Parent under the circumstances set forth in the Separation and Distribution Agreement, we may be subject to substantial liabilities.

In connection with the Separation, the Former Parent will indemnify us for certain liabilities. However, there can be no assurance that such indemnity will be sufficient to insure us against the full amount of such liabilities, or that the Former Parent’s ability to satisfy its indemnification obligations will not be impaired in the future. Pursuant to the Separation and Distribution Agreement and certain other agreements with the Former Parent, the Former Parent agreed to indemnify us for certain liabilities. However, third parties could also seek to hold us responsible for any of the liabilities that the Former Parent has agreed to retain, and there can be no assurance that the indemnity from the Former Parent will be sufficient to protect us against the full amount of such liabilities, or that the Former Parent will be able to fully satisfy its indemnification obligations. In addition, the Former Parent’s insurance will not necessarily be available to us for liabilities associated with occurrences of indemnified liabilities prior to the separation, and in any event the Former Parent’s insurers may deny coverage to us for liabilities associated with certain occurrences of indemnified liabilities prior to the separation. Moreover, even if we ultimately succeed in recovering from the Former Parent or such insurance providers any amounts for which we are held liable, we may be temporarily required to bear these losses. Each of these risks could negatively affect our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

We might not be able to engage in certain transactions and equity issuances following the distribution. Our ability to engage in equity transactions could be limited or restricted in order to preserve, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, the qualification of the distribution, together with certain related transactions, as a reorganization under Sections 355 and 368(a)(1)(D) of the Code. Even if the Distribution otherwise qualifies for tax-free treatment to the Former Parent’s shareholders under Section 355 of the Code, it may result in corporate-level taxable gain to the Former Parent if there is a 50% or greater change in ownership, by vote or value, of the common shares of Worthington Steel, the common shares of the Former Parent or the stock of a successor of either occurring as part of a plan or series of related transactions that includes the Distribution. Any acquisitions or issuances of Worthington Steel’s common shares or the Former Parent’s common shares within two years of the Distribution are generally presumed to be part of such a plan, although the Former Parent may be able to rebut that presumption.

Under the Tax Matters Agreement that we entered into with the Former Parent on November 30, 2023, we are required to comply with the representations made in the private letter ruling the Former Parent received and in materials submitted to the IRS in connection therewith and to legal counsel in connection with the tax opinion the Former Parent received regarding the intended tax treatment of the Distribution and certain related transactions. The tax matters agreement also restricts our ability to take or fail to take any action if such action or failure to act could adversely affect the intended tax treatment. In particular, except in specific circumstances, in the two years following the Distribution, we are restricted from, among other things, (i) entering into any transaction pursuant to which all or a portion of our equity would be acquired, whether by merger or otherwise, and (ii) ceasing to actively conduct certain elements of our business.

These restrictions may limit for a period of time our ability to pursue certain transactions that we may believe to be in the best interests of our shareholders or that might increase the value of our business.

Certain of our executive officers and directors may have actual or potential conflicts of interest because of their equity interests in the Former Parent. Certain of our executive officers and directors own equity interests in the Former Parent. Continuing ownership of common shares of the Former Parent and equity awards could create, or appear to create, potential conflicts of interest if we and the Former Parent face decisions that could have implications for both the Former Parent and us.

The Former Parent may compete with us. The Former Parent is not restricted from competing with us. If the Former Parent in the future decides to engage in the type of business we conduct, it may have a competitive advantage over us, which may cause our business, financial condition and results of operations to be materially adversely affected.

Risks Related to Owning Our Common Shares

The price of our common shares has fluctuated significantly and may continue to fluctuate significantly. The market price of our common shares has fluctuated significantly since the Separation, and may continue to fluctuate significantly due to a number of factors, many of which are beyond our control, including:

• our quarterly or annual earnings, or those of other companies in our industry;
• the failure of securities analysts to cover our common shares;
• actual or anticipated fluctuations in our operating results;
• changes in earnings estimated by securities analysts or our ability to meet those estimates;
• the operating and stock price performance of other comparable companies;
• changes to the regulatory and legal environment in which we operate;
• changes in interest or inflation rates;
• overall market fluctuations and domestic and worldwide economic conditions; and
• other factors described in this Item 1A.

Stock markets in general have experienced volatility that has often been unrelated to the operating performance of a particular company. These broad market fluctuations may adversely affect the trading price of our common shares. These and other factors may cause the market price and demand for our common shares to fluctuate substantially, which may limit or prevent shareholder from readily selling our common shares and may otherwise negatively affect the liquidity of our common shares.

If we are unable to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting, investors may lose confidence in the accuracy and completeness of our financial reports and the market price of our common shares may be negatively affected. As a public company, we are required to maintain internal controls over financial reporting and to report any material weaknesses in such internal controls. In addition, we are required to furnish annual management assessments of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting and a report by our independent registered public accounting firm addressing these assessments pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (the “Sarbanes-Oxley Act”). These reporting and other obligations may place significant demands on management, administrative and operational resources, including accounting systems and resources.

The process of designing, implementing, and testing the internal control over financial reporting required to comply with this obligation is time consuming, costly, and complicated. If we identify material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting, if we are unable to comply with the requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act in a timely manner or to assert that our internal control over financial reporting is effective, or if our independent registered public accounting firm is unable to express an opinion as to the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting, investors may lose confidence in the accuracy and completeness of our financial reports and the market price of our common shares could be negatively affected, and we could become subject to investigations by the stock exchange on which our securities are then listed, the SEC, or other regulatory authorities, which could require additional financial and management resources.

Certain provisions in our amended and restated articles of incorporation and amended and restated code of regulations, and of Ohio law, may prevent or delay an acquisition of us, which could decrease the trading price of our common shares. Our amended and restated articles of incorporation and amended and restated code of regulations contain, and Ohio law contains, provisions that are intended to deter coercive takeover practices and inadequate takeover bids and to encourage prospective acquirers to negotiate with the Board rather than to attempt an unsolicited takeover not approved by the Board. These provisions include, among others:

• the inability of our shareholders to call a special meeting unless they hold 50% or more of our outstanding shares;
• the inability of our shareholders to act by written consent;
• rules regarding how shareholders may present proposals or nominate directors for election at shareholder meetings;
• the right of the Board to issue preferred shares without shareholder approval;
• the division of the Board into three classes of directors, with each class serving a staggered three-year term, and this classified board provision could have the effect of making the replacement of incumbent directors more time consuming and difficult;
• provision that shareholders may only remove directors with cause;
• the ability of our directors, and not shareholders, to fill vacancies (including those resulting from an enlargement of the Board) on the Board (except in the case of removal of a director by the shareholders, in which case the shareholders may fill such vacancy at the same meeting); and
• the requirement that the affirmative vote of shareholders holding at least two-thirds of our voting shares is required to amend our amended and restated code of regulations and certain provisions in our amended and restated articles of incorporation.

We believe these provisions will protect our shareholders from coercive or otherwise unfair takeover tactics by requiring potential acquirers to negotiate with the Board and by providing the Board with more time to assess any acquisition proposal. These provisions are not intended to make us immune from takeovers. However, these provisions will apply even if the offer may be considered beneficial by some shareholders and could delay or prevent an acquisition that the Board determines is not in the best interests of us and our shareholders. These provisions may also prevent or discourage attempts to remove and replace incumbent directors.

General Risk Factors

Economic or Industry Downturns and Weakness

Our business is cyclical and weakness or downturns in the economy or certain industries could have an adverse effect on our business. If the domestic or global economies, or certain industry sectors of those economies that are key to our sales, contract or deteriorate, it could result in a corresponding decrease in demand for our products and negatively impact our results of operations and financial condition.

Volatility in the U.S. and worldwide capital and credit markets could negatively impact our end markets and result in reduced demand for our products, increased credit and collection risks and other adverse effects on our business. The domestic and worldwide capital and credit markets have experienced significant volatility, disruptions and dislocations with respect to price and credit availability. These factors caused diminished availability of credit and other capital in our end markets, and for participants in, and the customers of, those markets. The effects of the inflationary pressures continue to present risks to us, our customers or our suppliers. In particular, there is no guarantee that the credit markets or liquidity will not once again be restricted. The imposition of more strict lending standards may make it more difficult and costly for some firms to access the credit markets. Further, uncertainties in Europe, especially in light of the war in Ukraine, regarding the financial sector and sovereign debt and the potential impact on banks in other regions of the world will continue to weigh on global and domestic growth. Although we believe we have adequate access to several sources of contractually committed borrowings and other available credit facilities, these risks could restrict our ability to borrow money on acceptable terms in the credit markets and potentially affect our ability to draw on our credit facilities. In addition, restricted access to the credit markets could make it difficult, or in some cases, impossible, for our suppliers and customers to borrow money to fund their operations. Lack of, or limited access to, capital would adversely affect our suppliers to produce the materials we need for our operations and our customers’ ability to purchase our products or, in some cases, to pay for our products on a timely basis.

Tax Laws and Regulations

Tax increases or changes in tax laws or regulations could adversely affect our financial results. We are subject to tax and related obligations in the jurisdictions in which we operate or do business, including state, local, federal and non-U.S. taxes. The tax laws of the various jurisdictions in which we operate or do business often are complex and subject to varying interpretations. Tax authorities may challenge tax positions that we take or historically have taken and may assess taxes where we have not made tax filings or may audit the tax filings we have made and assess additional taxes. Some of these assessments may be substantial, and also may involve the imposition of penalties and interest.

In addition, governments could change their existing tax laws, impose new taxes on us or increase the rates at which we are taxed in the future. The payment of substantial additional taxes, penalties or interest resulting from tax assessments, or the imposition of any new taxes, could materially and adversely impact our results of operations and financial condition.

The Pillar Two Global Anti-Base Erosion rules issued by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (“OECD”), a global policy forum, introduced a global minimum tax of 15% which would apply to multinational groups with consolidated financial statement revenue in excess of EUR 750 million. Nearly all OECD member jurisdictions have agreed in principle to adopt these provisions and numerous jurisdictions, including jurisdictions in which the Company operates, have enacted these rules effective January 1, 2024. We have evaluated the impact of these rules and currently believe they will not have a material impact on our future financial results. We will continue to monitor and refine our assessment as further guidance is available.

Legislation and Regulations

Certain proposed legislation and regulations may have an adverse impact on the economy in general and on our markets specifically, which may adversely affect our business. Our business may be negatively impacted by a variety of new or proposed legislation or regulations. For example, legislation and regulations proposing increases in taxation on, or heightened regulation of, greenhouse gas emissions may result in higher prices for steel, higher prices for utilities required to run our facilities, higher fuel costs for us and our suppliers and distributors, limitations on our ability to produce, use or sell certain products and other adverse impacts. To the extent that new legislation or regulations increase our costs, we may not be able to fully pass these costs on to our customers without a resulting decline in sales and adverse impact on our profits. Likewise, to the extent new legislation or regulations would have an adverse effect on the economy, our markets or the ability of domestic businesses to compete against foreign operations, we could also be adversely impacted.

Changes to global data privacy laws and cross-border transfer requirements could adversely affect our business and operations. Our business depends on the transfer of data between our affiliated entities, to and from our business partners, and with third-party service providers, which may be subject to global data privacy laws and cross-border transfer restrictions. For example, the European Union has implemented the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which contains numerous requirements that must be complied with in connection with how we handle personal data related to our European-based operations and individuals. A number of U.S. states have introduced and passed legislation to expand data breach notification rules and to mirror some of the protections provided by GDPR. While we take steps to comply with applicable legal requirements, the volatility and changes to such laws may impact our ability to effectively transfer data in support of our business operations. Compliance with such laws, or other regulatory standards, could also increase our cost of doing business and/or force us to change our business practices in a manner adverse to our business. In addition, violations of such laws, or other privacy regulations, may result in significant fines, penalties and damage to our brands and businesses which could, individually or in the aggregate, materially harm our business and reputation.

We have certain operations which are located outside of the U.S. that expose us to certain anti-corruption laws. We are subject to the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (“FCPA”), which generally prohibits U.S. companies and their intermediaries from making corrupt payments or otherwise corruptly giving anything of value to foreign officials for the purpose of obtaining or keeping business or otherwise obtaining favorable treatment and requires companies to maintain adequate record-keeping and internal accounting practices. The FCPA applies to covered companies, individual directors, officers, employees, and agents. Under the FCPA, U.S. companies may be held liable for some actions taken by strategic or local partners or representatives. If we or our intermediaries fail to comply with the requirements of the FCPA, governmental authorities in the U.S. could seek to impose civil and/or criminal penalties. The other countries in which we operate may have similar or more stringent anti-corruption laws to which we must comply or risk civil and/or criminal penalties. The failure to comply with such laws may lead to negative effects on our business and financial condition.

Impairment Charges

Weakness or instability in the general economy, our markets or our results of operations could result in asset impairments, which would reduce our reported earnings and net worth. Economic conditions remain fragile in some markets and the possibility remains that the domestic or global economies, or certain industry sectors that are key to our sales, may deteriorate. If certain aspects of our operations are adversely affected by challenging economic and financial conditions, we may be required to record future impairments, which would negatively impact our results of operations.

Cybersecurity risk management is an integral part of our overall enterprise risk management program. Our cybersecurity risk management program is designed to provide a framework for assessing, identifying and managing cybersecurity threats and incidents, including threats and incidents associated with the use of services provided by third-party service providers, and to facilitate coordination across different departments of our Company. Our processes include steps for assessing the severity of a cybersecurity threat, identifying the source of a cybersecurity threat including whether the cybersecurity threat is associated with a third-party service provider, implementing cybersecurity countermeasures and mitigation strategies and informing management and the Board of material cybersecurity threats and incidents. We engage third-party security experts for risk assessment and system enhancements. The Company delivers annual security awareness training to employees, augmented by periodic role-specific modules and recurring phishing simulation exercises to measure user susceptibility and inform further training.

The Board has overall oversight responsibility for our risk management, and delegates cybersecurity risk management oversight to the Audit Committee of the Board. The Audit Committee is responsible for ensuring that management has processes in place designed to identify and evaluate cybersecurity risks to which we are exposed and implement processes and programs to manage cybersecurity risks and mitigate cybersecurity incidents. The Audit Committee also reports material cybersecurity risks to the Board.

Management is responsible for identifying, considering and assessing material cybersecurity risks on an ongoing basis, establishing processes designed to ensure that such potential cybersecurity risk exposures are monitored, putting in place mitigation measures and maintaining cybersecurity programs. Management, including the CIO and our Director of Cybersecurity, regularly updates the Audit Committee on our cybersecurity programs, which includes cybersecurity risks and mitigation strategies, a third-party risk assessment program, vulnerability management, and on-going cybersecurity projects.

Our cybersecurity programs are under the direction of our Vice President and Chief Information Officer (“CIO”) who receives regular reports from our Director of Cybersecurity. The Director of Cybersecurity, oversees our dedicated cybersecurity team comprised of 2 Senior Security Engineers and 2 Security Analysts and is augmented by a 24x7 managed security services who actively manage and execute our efforts to prevent, detect, mitigate and remediate cybersecurity incidents. The Director of Cybersecurity has over 15 years of experience in cybersecurity, with demonstrated expertise in incident response, threat detection, vulnerability management, and third-party risk assessments. He holds advanced degrees in IT Project Management and Network Security and maintains industry certifications including CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) and GCIH (GIAC Certified Incident Handler). The two Senior Security Engineers have 16 and 10 years of experience, respectively. Their areas of specialization include network security architecture, endpoint protection technologies, and operational technology (OT) security integration. Both hold advanced certifications such as CISSP, GRID (GIAC Response and Industrial Defense), and GCIP (GIAC Critical Infrastructure Protection). The two Security Analysts bring 3 and 4 years of experience, respectively. Each holds a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and maintain industry certifications including CompTIA Security+ (SEC+). Their responsibilities include real-time security monitoring, phishing simulation campaigns, and user awareness support. Collectively, the cybersecurity team brings 48 years of combined experience and is actively engaged in ongoing professional development to remain current with emerging cyber threats, technologies, and regulatory requirements.

In fiscal 2025, we did not identify any cybersecurity threats, including as a result of any previous cybersecurity incidents, that materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect our business strategy, results of operations, or financial condition. However, despite our efforts, we cannot eliminate all risks from cybersecurity threats, or provide assurances that we have not experienced an undetected cybersecurity incident. It is possible that we may not implement appropriate controls if we do not detect a particular risk. In addition, security controls, no matter how well designed or implemented, may only mitigate and not fully eliminate the risks. Even when a risk is detected, disruptive events may not always be immediately and thoroughly interpreted and acted upon. For more information about these risks, see “Risk Factors – Risks Related to our Business” in Item 1A. of this Form 10-K.

Our principal corporate offices are located in two adjacent leased buildings in Columbus, Ohio. During fiscal 2025, we purchased a building in Columbus, Ohio, which will serve as a new corporate headquarters. We will move into the building when renovations are completed, which is expected during fiscal 2027. We lease space from the Former Parent in Columbus, Ohio used for administrative, metallurgical services and warehousing purposes. Additionally, we own warehouse space in Pennsylvania and South Carolina, and lease warehouse space in California and Pennsylvania.

At May 31, 2025, including our consolidated and unconsolidated joint ventures, we owned or leased more than 6.4 million square feet of space for our manufacturing facilities. More details on these facilities are contained in the table below. We believe these facilities are well maintained and in good operating condition and are sufficient to meet our current needs. The table below excludes our strategic investment in Canada given the construction is still in progress at this location.

Wholly-owned and Consolidated Joint Ventures

(1) Facility information is as of May 31, 2025, and does not include the acquisition activity subsequent to year end.

(2) One facility in Cleveland, Ohio is excluded from the table because it is idled with manufacturing operations ceased.

Unconsolidated Joint Venture

We are involved in various judicial and administrative proceedings, as both plaintiff and defendant, arising in the ordinary course of business. We do not believe that any such proceedings, individually or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operation or cash flows.

Introduction

This MD&A should be read in conjunction with our consolidated and combined financial statements and the related Notes in this Form 10-K. This MD&A is designed to provide a reader with material information relevant to an assessment of our financial condition and results of operations and to allow investors to view the Company from the perspective of management.

The MD&A included in this report discusses our fiscal 2025 and fiscal 2024 financial condition and results of operations. For a comparison and discussion of our results of operations and financial condition for fiscal 2024 and fiscal 2023, see “Part II – Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Results of Operations – Fiscal 2024 Compared to Fiscal 2023” of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2024, filed with the SEC on August 2, 2024.

Basis of Presentation

Worthington Steel was formed as an Ohio corporation on February 28, 2023, for the purpose of receiving, pursuant to a reorganization, all of the outstanding equity interests of the steel processing business of Worthington Enterprises. On December 1, 2023, the Separation was completed and Worthington Steel became an independent, publicly traded company. Our financial statements for the periods until the Separation on December 1, 2023, are combined financial statements prepared on a carve-out basis. Our financial statements for the periods beginning on and after December 1, 2023, are consolidated financial statements based on our reported results as a stand-alone company. Accordingly, the third quarter of fiscal 2024 and onward included consolidated and combined financial statements, whereas all prior periods included combined financial statements. For additional information, see “Note 1 – Description of Business, The Separation, Agreements with the Former Parent and Separation Costs, and Basis of Presentation.”

Business Overview

We are one of North America’s premier value-added metals processors with the ability to provide a diversified range of products and services that span a variety of end markets. We maintain market leading positions in the North American carbon flat-rolled steel and tailor welded blank industries and are one of the largest global producers of electrical steel laminations. For 70 years, we have been delivering high quality steel processing capabilities across a variety of end-markets including automotive, heavy truck, agriculture, construction, and energy. With the ability to produce customized steel solutions, we aim to be the preferred value-added steel processor in the markets we serve by delivering highly technical, customer-specific solutions, while also providing advanced materials support. Our scale allows us to achieve an advantaged cost structure and service platform supported by a strategic operating footprint. We serve our customers primarily by processing flat-rolled steel coils, which we source primarily from various North American steel mills, into the precise type, thickness, length, width, shape, and surface quality required by customer specifications. We sell steel on a direct basis, whereby we are exposed to the risk and rewards of ownership of the material while in our possession. Additionally, we toll process steel under a fee for service arrangement whereby we process customer-owned material. Our manufacturing facilities further benefit from the flexibility to scale between direct and tolling services based on demand dynamics throughout the year.

Our operations are managed principally on a products and services basis under a single group organizational structure. We own controlling interests in the following operating joint ventures: Spartan, TWB, and WSCP. We also own a controlling interest in WSP, which became a nonoperating joint venture in October 2022, when we completed the divestiture of its remaining net assets. The net assets and operating results of these joint ventures are consolidated with the equity owned by the minority joint venture member shown as “Noncontrolling interests” in our consolidated balance sheets, and the noncontrolling interest in net earnings and Other Comprehensive Income (“OCI”) shown as net earnings or comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests in our consolidated and combined statements of earnings and consolidated and combined statements of comprehensive income, respectively. Our remaining joint venture, Serviacero Worthington, is unconsolidated and accounted for using the equity method.

Recent Business Developments

• Finalized the definitive agreement to acquire a controlling equity stake in Italy-based Sitem Group. The transaction closed on June 3, 2025, subsequent to the end of fiscal 2025.
• On June 25, 2025, the Board declared a quarterly dividend of $0.16 per common share payable on September 26, 2025, to shareholders of record at the close of business on September 12, 2025. Refer to “Note 21 – Subsequent Events” for additional information.

Trends and Factors Impacting our Performance

The steel processing industry is fragmented and highly competitive. Given the broad base of products and services offered, specific competitors vary based on the target industry, product type, service type, size of program and geography. Competition is primarily on the basis of price, product quality and the ability to meet delivery requirements. Our processed steel products are priced competitively, primarily based on market factors, including, among other things, market pricing, the cost and availability of raw materials, transportation and shipping costs, and overall economic conditions in the U.S. and abroad.

General Economic and Market Conditions

We sell our products and services to a diverse customer base and a broad range of end markets. The breakdown of net sales by end market for fiscal 2025 and fiscal 2024 is illustrated below:

The automotive industry is one of the largest consumers of flat-rolled steel in North America, and the largest end market for us and our unconsolidated joint venture, Serviacero Worthington. North American vehicle production, including the Detroit Three automakers, is a leading indicator of automotive demand. North American vehicle production was down 6% in fiscal 2025 compared to fiscal 2024, and the Detroit Three automakers vehicle production was down 7% in fiscal 2025 compared to fiscal 2024.

Our remaining net sales are to other markets such as agricultural, appliance, construction, container, energy, heavy truck, HVAC, industrial electric motor, generator, and transformer. Given the many different products that make up our net sales and the wide variety of end markets we service, it is difficult to isolate the key market indicators that drive this portion of our business. However, we believe that the trend in U.S. gross domestic product growth (“U.S. GDP”) is a reasonable macroeconomic indicator for analyzing the demand of our end markets other than the automotive industry. U.S. GDP has shown resilient growth during much of fiscal 2025. Recent economic data has suggested that there has been a slight pull back in U.S. GDP; however, that is largely attributable to an unusual amount of imports during early calendar 2025 in response to the announced tariffs by the U.S. government. Thus, when controlling for such events, the U.S. GDP appears to be maintaining its steady growth.

Total volume (tons) decreased 5% compared to the prior year, with our direct shipments down 4% and toll shipments down 7%. Toll volumes were down primarily with our steel mill customers as they required less outside processing to meet their production requirements. Direct shipments to the automotive market were down 3% compared to the prior year. Detroit Three Automakers represented 33% and 32% of our consolidated net sales during fiscal 2025 and consolidated and combined net sales during fiscal 2024, respectively. Shipments to the Big Three Automakers were down 3% in fiscal 2025 as compared to fiscal 2024, primarily due to deeper than expected production cuts at one of the Detroit Three Automakers as it attempted to right size its inventory levels and adjust its commercial strategy, partially offset by increased shipments to the other Detroit Three Automakers. We have won new programs and increased our share in the automotive market. We are beginning to see the volume impact of some of those new programs and expect to see volume increases as these platforms ramp up over the next several quarters.

During fiscal 2025, U.S. inflation rates were generally lower as compared to the rates experienced over the past two fiscal years and have to some extent stabilized, however, the U.S. inflation rate remains above the U.S. Federal Reserve targeted rate of 2%. To combat the higher inflation rate, the U.S. Federal Reserve lowered benchmark interest rates three times during fiscal 2025, with the most recent in December 2024. As a result, borrowing costs have generally decreased, and we have benefited from lower rates on our Credit Facility. Nonetheless, given where the benchmark interest rate currently sits, the U.S. Federal Reserve has capacity to lower it further, which would generally be expected to spur U.S. GDP growth especially given how U.S. inflation rates have largely moderated. We would expect to see financial benefits to an increase in U.S. GDP across the end markets we serve.

We use the following information from the past three fiscal years to monitor our costs and demand in our major end markets:

(1) Fiscal 2024 and 2023 figures based on revised actuals

(2) CRU Hot-Rolled Coil (“HRC”) Index; period average

(3) S&P Global

(4) LME Zinc; period average

(5) NYMEX Henry Hub Natural Gas; period average

(6) Energy Information Administration; period average

The following table summarizes the concentration percentage of consolidated or combined net sales for the periods presented:

While our automotive business is largely driven by the production schedules of the Detroit Three automakers, our customer base is much broader and includes other domestic manufacturers and many of their suppliers.

Sales for most of our products are generally strongest in our fiscal fourth quarter when our facilities operate at seasonal peaks. Historically, sales have been weaker in our fiscal third quarter, primarily due to reduced seasonal activity in the construction industry, as well as customer plant shutdowns due to holidays, particularly in the automotive industry. We do not believe backlog is a significant indicator of our business.

Industry Developments

In 2025, the U.S. government has continued to modify its tariffs policy, including those related to imports of steel and aluminum among other items such as automobiles and automotive parts as well as universal tariffs. In June 2025, the U.S. government announced new tariff increases to steel and aluminum from 25% to 50% under section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act (“Section 232”). While exemptions for certain allied countries remain in place, many prior country-specific exemptions have expired or are undergoing renegotiation. Other governments, including the Chinese government, have responded with reciprocal tariffs on U.S. imports. The scope and duration of these tariffs continue to evolve, which creates sustained uncertainty in global trade policy. As a result, our customers’ supply chain decisions may abruptly shift, potentially impacting our financial performance. The ultimate impact the tariffs will have on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows remains to be determined.

In 2025, subsequent to the end of fiscal 2025, the U.S. government enacted the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (“OBBBA”) into law, which ushers in a broad set of changes to the U.S. law and regulatory environments. The ultimate impact the OBBBA will have on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows remains to be determined.

Impact of Raw Material Prices

Our principal raw material is flat-rolled steel, including electrical steel, which we purchase in coils from primary steel producers. The steel industry as a whole has been cyclical, and at times availability and pricing can be volatile due to a number of factors beyond our control. This volatility can significantly affect our steel costs. In an environment of increasing prices for steel and other raw materials, competitive conditions may impact how much of the price increases we can pass on to our customers. To the extent we are able to pass future price increases in raw materials to our customers, this could positively affect our financial results leading to inventory holding gains. To the extent we are unable to pass future price increases in raw materials to our customers, our financial results could be adversely affected. Also, if steel prices decrease, in general, competitive conditions may impact how quickly we must reduce our prices to our customers, and we could be forced to use higher-priced raw materials already in our inventory to complete orders for which the selling prices have decreased, which results in inventory holding losses. Declining steel prices could also require us to write down the value of our inventories to reflect current market pricing. Further, the number of steel suppliers has decreased in recent years due to industry consolidation and the financial difficulties of certain suppliers, and consolidation may continue. Accordingly, if delivery from a major steel supplier is disrupted, it may be more difficult to obtain an alternative supply than in the past or the alternative supply may only be available at a premium.

The market price of our products is closely related to the price of HRC. The price of benchmark HRC is primarily affected by the demand for steel and the cost of raw materials. Over fiscal 2024, steel prices declined in the first, second and fourth quarters and more than offset the increase in prices in the third quarter. Steel prices declined during the first quarter of fiscal 2025, largely stabilized during the second quarter of fiscal 2025 before rising slightly during the third quarter of fiscal 2025. During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025, prices continued to rise and direct spreads between sales price and material costs were impacted by a $24.2 million favorable change from an estimated $3.4 million inventory holding loss in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024 to an estimated $20.8 million inventory holding gain in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025. While the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025 saw higher steel prices than the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024, the annual average remained lower for fiscal 2025. This resulted in $7.0 million unfavorable change from an estimated $3.4 inventory loss in fiscal 2024 to an estimated $10.4 million inventory holding loss in fiscal 2025.

Given that many of our contracts use lagging index-based pricing mechanisms, we expect to generate inventory holding gains in the first quarter of fiscal 2026. We estimate those gains could be approximately $5 million to $10 million.

To manage our exposure to market risk, we attempt to negotiate the best prices for commodities and to competitively price products and services to reflect fluctuations in market prices. Derivative financial instruments have been used to manage a portion of our exposure to fluctuations in the cost of our raw materials; steel is the most significant. These contracts covered periods commensurate with known or expected exposures throughout the periods presented. The derivative financial instruments were executed with highly rated financial institutions.

The following table presents the average quarterly market price per ton of HRC steel during each of the past three fiscal years.

(1) CRU Hot-Rolled Index

No matter how efficient, our operations, which use steel as a raw material, create some amount of scrap. The expected price of scrap compared to the price of the steel raw material is factored into pricing. Generally, as the price of steel increases, the price of scrap increases by a similar amount and vice versa. When increases in scrap prices do not keep pace with the increases in the price of the steel raw material, it can have a negative impact on our margins.

Results of Operations

Fiscal 2025 Compared to Fiscal 2024

The tables throughout this section present, on a comparative basis, our results of operations for the past two fiscal years.

(In millions, except volume and per common share amounts)

(1) On December 1, 2023, there were approximately 49.3 million common shares outstanding following the Distribution. The computation of basic and diluted earnings per common share for all periods through November 30, 2023, was calculated (a) using this same number of common shares outstanding since no Worthington Steel equity awards were outstanding as of the Separation Date and (b) net of Net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interest as such interest is fully associated with continuing operations.

Net sales totaled $3,093.3 million in fiscal 2025, down $337.3 million compared to fiscal 2024, primarily due to lower direct selling prices and unfavorable volumes. Direct selling prices were down approximately 6%. Overall volume decreased 213,621 tons, or 5% from fiscal 2024 to fiscal 2025. Direct tons sold decreased 4%, while toll tons sold decreased 7% compared to fiscal 2024. The mix of direct versus toll volumes was 57% to 43% in fiscal 2025, compared to 56% to 44% in fiscal 2024.

Gross Margin

(In millions)

Gross margin decreased $51.2 million over the prior year to $388.6 million, primarily due to lower volume (direct and toll) and, to a lesser extent, unfavorable direct spreads between sales price and material costs. Direct volumes, down 4% compared to the fiscal 2024, reduced gross margin by $36.8 million, whereas toll volumes, down 7%, compared to the fiscal 2024, negatively impacted gross margin by $6.9 million. Direct spreads, down $6.1 million, were unfavorably impacted by a $7.0 million change from $3.4 million in estimated inventory holding losses in fiscal 2024 compared to estimated holding losses of $10.4 million in fiscal 2025.

Selling, General and Administrative Expense

(In millions)

Selling, general and administrative expense (“SG&A”) increased $7.2 million over the prior year primarily due to increased wage and benefit costs and $4.6 million of professional fees associated with the Sitem Group Transaction.

Other Operating Items

(In millions)

Impairment of assets in fiscal 2025 was driven by the recognition of a $1.3 million pre-tax impairment charge related to an indefinite-lived in-process research and development intangible asset that was determined to be fully impaired. Additionally, due to the announced plans to combine WSCP’s Cleveland, Ohio toll processing manufacturing facility into its existing manufacturing facility in Twinsburg, Ohio, we recognized a $6.1 million pre-tax impairment charge on the disposal group assets.

Impairment of assets in fiscal 2024 was driven by changes in the estimated fair market value less cost to sell related to ongoing efforts to divest certain production equipment of another WSCP toll processing facility in Cleveland, Ohio. Refer to “Note 4 – Goodwill and Other Assets” for additional information.

Restructuring and other expense, net in fiscal 2025 was driven by the $1.8 million of severance expense associated with a TWB voluntary retirement program (“VRP”), which is expected to accelerate the normal retirement attrition process and result in future cost savings. Additionally, in connection with the consolidation and closure of WSCP’s remaining Cleveland, Ohio toll processing manufacturing facility, the Company recognized $0.8 million in severance expense during fiscal 2025. Refer to “Note 5 – Restructuring and Other (Income) Expense, Net” for additional information.

Separation costs decreased by $19.5 million in fiscal 2025 as the Separation was finalized on December 1, 2023. No additional Separation costs are expected after fiscal 2025. Refer to “Note 1 – Description of Business, The Separation, Agreements with the Former Parent and Separation Costs, and Basis of Presentation” for additional information.

Miscellaneous Income, Net

(In millions)

Miscellaneous income, net decreased $1.5 million from the prior year primarily due an indemnification agreement with the former owners of Tempel. As a result of rulings in one of the jurisdictions in which Tempel operates, there was a $7.4 million decrease in miscellaneous income, net from fiscal 2024 to fiscal 2025. During fiscal 2025, there was $4.6 million of expense as a result of the recognition of tax indemnity payables associated with a final tax year favorable ruling and associated interest charge true-up. In contrast, during fiscal 2024, there was $2.8 million of income related to the fiscal 2024 recognition of a tax indemnity receivable associated with a final tax year unfavorable ruling. The indemnification agreement, which was entered into with the former Tempel owners at the time the Company acquired Tempel, provides protection to the Company from rulings by tax authorities through the acquisition date. Additionally, there was a $2.5 million change in foreign currency remeasurements as there were foreign currency remeasurement losses of $1.6 million in fiscal 2025 compared to foreign currency remeasurement gains of $0.9 million in fiscal 2024, primarily related to Tempel and TWB operations in Mexico.

The decrease from fiscal 2024 was offset by three primary items. First, in fiscal 2025, there was a $4.0 million pre-tax gain mark-to-market gain on the economic (non-designated) foreign currency exchange contract entered into related to the purchase price for Sitem Group. Second, the annuitization of a portion of the total projected benefit obligation of the inactive Tempel Steel Pension Plan, resulting in a pre-tax, non-cash settlement gain of $2.7 million to accelerate a portion of deferred pension cost. Finally, we recognized a pre-tax gain of $1.5 million related to the sale of unused land in China.

Interest Expense, Net

(In millions)

Interest expense increased $1.1 million from fiscal 2024, primarily due to higher average debt levels associated with borrowings under the Credit Facility during fiscal 2025 as compared to fiscal 2024. During fiscal 2024, the Credit Facility, which was entered into November 30, 2023, was utilized to fund the $150.0 million distribution to the Former Parent in connection with the Separation. This was partially offset by a reduction of interest expense associated with the TWB Term Loan, which was contributed to us in connection with the Separation on December 1, 2023. Refer to “Note 8 – Debt” for additional information.

Equity Income

(In millions)

Equity earnings at Serviacero Worthington decreased $18.0 million over fiscal 2024 due to lower direct spreads, primarily related to the impact of reduced inventory holding gains, lower direct volume, and unfavorable exchange rate movements during fiscal 2025. We received cash distributions of $12.8 million from Serviacero Worthington during fiscal 2025 as compared to $2.0 million during fiscal 2024. Refer to “Note 3 – Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate” for additional information.

Income Taxes

(In millions)

Income tax expense decreased $17.3 million from fiscal 2024 due to lower pre-tax earnings, 2008 and 2009 court rulings at Tempel Mexico, offset by a one-time item in fiscal 2024 for non-deductible executive compensation. Fiscal 2025 income tax expense reflected an estimated annual effective income tax rate of 20.6% versus 23.0% in fiscal 2024. Refer to “Note 13 – Income Taxes” for additional information.

Adjusted EBIT

We evaluate operating performance on the basis of adjusted earnings before interest and taxes (“adjusted EBIT”). EBIT, a non-GAAP financial measure, is calculated by adding interest expense and income tax expense to net earnings attributable to controlling interest. Adjusted EBIT, a non-GAAP financial measure, excludes impairment and restructuring expense (income), net, but may also exclude other items, as described below, that management believes are not reflective of, and thus should not be included when evaluating the performance of our ongoing operations. Adjusted EBIT is used by management to evaluate operating performance and engage in financial and operational planning, because we believe that this financial measure provides additional perspective on the performance of our ongoing operations. Additionally, management believes these non-GAAP financial measures provide useful information to investors because they allow for meaningful comparisons and analysis of trends in our businesses and enable investors to evaluate operations and future prospects in the same manner as management.

The following table provides a reconciliation of net earnings attributable to controlling interest (the most comparable GAAP financial measure) to adjusted EBIT for the periods presented:

(In millions)

(1) Impairment charges are excluded because they do not occur in the ordinary course of our ongoing business operations, are inherently unpredictable in timing and amount, and are non-cash, so their exclusion facilitates the comparison of historical, current and forecasted financial results. Non-cash impairment charges in the fiscal 2025 were driven by 1) an indefinite-lived in-process research and development intangible asset, representing acquired research and development projects that are not yet completed and for which no determinable useful life exists at this time, that was determined to be fully impaired and 2) our plans to combine WSCP’s Cleveland, Ohio toll processing manufacturing facility into its existing manufacturing facility in Twinsburg, Ohio, and excludes the noncontrolling interest portion of impairment of assets of $2.8 million. Non-cash impairment charge in the fiscal 2024 was driven by changes in the estimated fair market value less cost to sell related to ongoing efforts to divest certain production equipment at another WSCP former toll processing facility in Cleveland, Ohio, and excludes the noncontrolling interest portion of impairment of assets of $0.5 million. Refer to “Note 4 – Goodwill and Other Assets.”

(2) Restructuring activities consist of established programs that are not part of our ongoing operations, such as divestitures, closing or consolidating facilities, employee severance (including rationalizing headcount or other significant changes in personnel), and realignment of existing operations (including changes to management structure in response to underlying performance and/or changing market conditions). In the current year period, TWB announced a VRP. In connection with the VRP, the Company recognized $1.0 million in severance expenses during fiscal 2025, which is recorded in restructuring and other expense, net, and excludes the noncontrolling interest portion of restructuring and other expenses, net of $0.8 million. Additionally, in connection with the consolidation and closure of WSCP’s remaining Cleveland, Ohio toll processing manufacturing facility, the Company recognized $0.5 million in severance expense during fiscal 2025, which is recorded in restructuring and other expense, net, and excludes the noncontrolling interest portion of restructuring and other expenses, net of $0.3 million. Refer to “Note 5 – Restructuring and Other Income, Net” for additional information.

(3) Separation costs reflect the direct and incremental costs incurred in connection with the Separation. These costs have been directly attributed to us to the extent incurred to our direct benefit, and include third-party advisory fees, certain employee-related costs and non-recurring costs associated with the separation of shared corporate functions.

(4) Tax indemnification adjustments reported in miscellaneous income, net, related to an indemnification agreement with the former owners of Tempel. These adjustments are the result of a first quarter fiscal 2025 favorable tax ruling, a fourth quarter fiscal 2025 interest charge true-up, and a fourth quarter fiscal 2024 unfavorable tax ruling in one of the jurisdictions in which Tempel operates. The indemnification agreement, which was entered into with the former Tempel owners at the time the Company acquired Tempel, provides protection to the Company from rulings by tax authorities through the acquisition date.

(5) Pension settlement gain reflects the pension lift-out transaction to transfer a portion of the total projected benefit obligation of the Tempel pension plan to a third-party insurance company, which resulted in a pre-tax non-cash gain, is excluded as it is not part of our ongoing operations.

(6) Tempel owns a subsidiary in China (“Tempel China”). Gain on land sale reflects the sale of unused land on the campus of Tempel China, which resulted in a pre-tax gain, is excluded as it is not part of our ongoing operations.

(7) Gain on Sitem Group purchase derivative reflects the mark-to-market gain on the economic (non-designated) foreign currency exchange contract entered into related to the purchase price for Sitem Group, which resulted in a pre-tax gain in miscellaneous income, net, and is excluded as it is not part of the Company’s ongoing operations.

Adjusted EBIT was down $75.3 million over the prior year, primarily due to a $51.2 million decrease in gross margin, an $18.0 million decrease in equity earnings at Serviacero Worthington, and a $7.2 million increase in SG&A compared to fiscal 2024.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Our primary ongoing requirements for cash are expected to be for working capital, funding of acquisitions, dividend payments, debt redemptions and capital expenditures. We believe that our sources of liquidity, including our cash balances, the funds generated by our operating activities and the funds accessible to us, primarily through the Credit Facility, are adequate to fund our operations for the next 12 months and for the foreseeable future and will allow us to meet our current and long-term obligations and strategic initiatives. However, there can be no assurances that our current sources of liquidity and capital resources will continue to be sufficient for our needs or that we will be able to obtain additional debt or equity financing on acceptable terms in the future. A more detailed description regarding our capital structure changes can be found elsewhere in this MD&A as well as in the “Financing Activities” section below.

Historically, we financed our working capital requirements through cash flows from operating activities and arrangements with the Former Parent. Upon completion of the Separation, we ceased such arrangements with the Former Parent and secured independent debt financing in the form of the Credit Facility. Our capital structure, long-term commitments, and liquidity sources have thus changed from our prior practices. Our ability to fund our operating needs is dependent upon our ability to continue to generate positive cash flow from operations, and on our ability to maintain our debt financing on acceptable terms.

As of May 31, 2025, our cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash balance was $92.9 million, of which $54.9 million was restricted cash primarily the result of our funding of the Sitem Group acquisition ahead of the June 3, 2025, closing date. During fiscal 2025 we generated $230.3 million of cash from operating activities, and we used $129.1 million of cash in investing activities, which primarily related to $130.4 million invested in property, plant and equipment. Additionally, we made net debt draws of $1.2 million under the Credit Facility, and we paid dividends of $31.9 million. The following table summarizes our consolidated and combined cash flows for the periods presented:

(In millions)

We believe we have access to adequate resources to meet the needs of our existing businesses for normal operating costs, mandatory capital expenditures, debt redemptions, dividend payments, and working capital, to the extent not funded by cash provided by operating activities, for at least 12 months and for the foreseeable future thereafter. These resources include cash and cash equivalents and unused borrowing capacity available on the Credit Facility. As of May 31, 2025, the Credit Facility had up to $400.8 million of borrowing capacity, subject to the borrowing base. The additional credit extended to us primarily relates to strategic capital expenditure projects. A more detailed description regarding our capital structure changes can be found elsewhere in this MD&A as well as in the “Financing Activities” section below.

We believe we could access the financial markets to be in a position to sell long-term debt or equity securities. However, the continuation of uncertain economic conditions and a heightened interest rate environment could create volatility in the financial markets, which may impact our ability to access capital and the terms under which we can do so. We will continue to monitor the economic environment and its impact on our operations and liquidity needs.

We routinely monitor current operational requirements, financial market conditions, and credit relationships and we may choose to seek additional capital by issuing new debt and/or equity securities to strengthen our liquidity or capital structure. The additional financing arrangements entered into during fiscal 2025 were the result of favorable financing terms available through those instruments to fund certain of our strategic capital expenditure projects and were not the result of insufficient capital resources. While we believe we currently have adequate capital, should we seek additional capital, there can be no assurance that we would be able to obtain such additional capital on terms acceptable to us, if at all, and such additional equity or debt financing could dilute the interests of our existing shareholders and/or increase our interest costs.

Operating Activities

Our business is cyclical and cash flows from operating activities may fluctuate during the year and from year to year due to economic and industry conditions. We rely on cash and short-term borrowings to meet cyclical increases in working capital needs. These needs generally rise during periods of increased economic activity or increasing raw material prices, requiring higher levels of inventory and accounts receivable. During economic slowdowns, or periods of decreasing raw material costs, working capital needs generally decrease as a result of the reduction of inventories and accounts receivable.

Net cash provided by operating activities was $230.3 million during fiscal 2025 compared to $199.5 million in fiscal 2024, an increase of $30.8 million. This change was primarily due to a $44.9 million increase in cash provided from net operating working capital (accounts receivable, inventories, and accounts payable), driven by the reduction in average steel prices in fiscal 2025 over fiscal 2024. Additionally, there was a $23.4 million favorable reduction in the cash used for other operating items, net, and a $10.8 million increase in cash dividends received from our unconsolidated affiliate. These increases were partially offset by a $50.8 million decrease in overall net earnings.

Investing Activities

Net cash used in investing activities was $129.1 million during fiscal 2025 compared to $123.2 million in fiscal 2024. Net cash used in investing activities in fiscal 2025 included capital expenditures of $130.4 million. In the current year period, the driver of net cash used in investing activities was primarily related to capital expenditures, which were substantially related to the previously announced strategic expansions of our electrical steel operations in Mexico and Canada to service the automotive and transformer markets, respectively, as well as certain other assets. Additionally, we paid $21.0 million, net of cash acquired, for the acquisition of Voestalpine Nagold in fiscal 2024. See “Note 15 – Acquisitions” for further information.

Capital expenditures reflect cash used for investment in property, plant and equipment and are presented below (this information excludes cash flows related to acquisition and divestiture activity) for each of the prior three fiscal years:

(In millions)

Investment activities are largely discretionary and future investment activities could be reduced significantly, or eliminated, as economic conditions warrant. We assess acquisition opportunities as they arise, and any such opportunities may require additional financing. However, there can be no assurance that any such opportunities will arise, that any such acquisition opportunities will be consummated, or that any additional financing will be available on satisfactory terms. We estimate our annual maintenance capital needs to be between approximately $40.0 million and $45.0 million, which excludes planned capital expenditures related to planned projects that are not directly linked to increased manufacturing capacity such as the corporate headquarters and other technology upgrades.

Financing Activities

Net cash used in financing activities was $48.5 million in fiscal 2025 compared to $68.8 million in fiscal 2024. The decrease in net cash used in financing activities in fiscal 2025 was primarily due the fact we no longer participate in the Former Parent’s centralized cash management program under which we distributed $47.6 million to the Former Parent in the period prior to the Separation. In fiscal 2025, we paid to shareholders of our common shares $31.9 million of dividends in our first full year of being public company compared to $7.9 million in the prior year period as the first dividend declared after the Separation was paid in March 2024. In the prior year period, there were net short-term borrowings of $145.2 million from our Credit Facility, which were primarily to fund the $150.0 million distribution to the Former Parent.

Revolving credit facility – We entered into the Credit Facility on November 30, 2023, immediately prior to the Separation. The Credit Facility allows for borrowings of up to $550.0 million, to the extent secured by eligible accounts receivable and inventory balances at period end, which consist primarily of U.S. Dollar denominated account balances. Individual amounts drawn under the Credit Facility will have interest periods of up to six months and will accrue interest at rates equal to an applicable margin over the applicable Term SOFR Rate, plus a SOFR adjustment. We incurred approximately $2.7 million of issuance costs, of which $2.5 million will be amortized to interest expense over the five-year Credit Facility term and are reflected in other assets.

As of May 31, 2025, we were in compliance with the financial covenants of the Credit Facility. The Credit Facility does not include credit rating triggers. There were $149.2 million outstanding borrowings drawn against the Credit Facility on May 31, 2025, leaving a borrowing capacity of $400.8 million, subject to the eligible borrowing base, available for use. At May 31, 2025 and May 31, 2024, the available borrowing capacity was $260.9 million and $307.6 million, respectively. Under the Credit Facility, we may extend borrowings up to the maturity date subject to the eligible borrowing base.

Canadian Government Regional Economic Growth Loan – Tempel owns a subsidiary in Canada (“Tempel Canada”). Tempel Canada entered into a loan through the Canadian Government’s Regional Economic Growth Innovation program and received the first distribution of CAD $3.2 million (approximately USD $2.2 million at the time of distribution, which is 90% of the total available through the program) during the third quarter of fiscal 2025. The loan is interest free and is for an amount of up to CAD $3.5 million (approximately USD $2.5 million as of May 31, 2025). The loan is scheduled to be paid off in sixty equal installments beginning April 1, 2027, with the final payment due March 1, 2032. There were no debt issuance costs associated with the loan.

Business Development Bank of Canada Canadian Loan – On March 25, 2025, Tempel Canada entered into a letter of offer (“BDC Letter”) with Business Development Bank of Canada (“BDC”). Pursuant to the terms of the Letter, BDC has committed to lend Tempel Canada up to CAD $57.5 million (approximately USD $41.9 million as of May 31, 2025) (“BDC Loan”), subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions and deliverables. The purpose of the BDC Loan is to fund the construction of a new manufacturing facility to be located in Burlington, Ontario, Canada (“Burlington Property”).

The BDC Loan is structured as a construction draw loan. The draw period for the BDC Loan will lapse on March 21, 2026, unless extended by BDC. Monthly interest only payments will be due until July 1, 2026, at which point the BDC Loan will also be subject to monthly amortization payments until maturity. The BDC Loan will accrue interest (a) during the construction period, at a per annum rate equal to BDC’s Floating Base Rate minus 1.75%, and (b) at all times thereafter, at a per annum rate equal to BDC’s Floating Base Rate minus 1.75% or BDC’s Base Rate minus 1.75%, at Tempel Canada’s election. The Loan matures on June 1, 2051.

Worthington Steel guarantees the payment obligations of Tempel Canada in respect of the BDC Loan. As amended subsequent to the end of Fiscal 2025, the guarantee is for the full amount of the BDC Loan amount on the date of any demand. Provided that there has never been a breach of certain default conditions, the guarantee is reduced to 50% of the outstanding BDC Loan balance once the principal amount outstanding is less than reaches CAD $40.0 million (approximately USD $29.1 million as of May 31, 2025), subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions. The Company will also provide customary cost overrun and completion guarantees in respect of the construction of the Burlington Property. The obligations of Tempel Canada under the BDC Letter are secured by a mortgage on the Burlington Property, an assignment of rents relating to the Burlington Property, and a lien on certain equipment and other personal property located on or used in connection with the Burlington Property.

As of May 31, 2025, there were no amounts drawn and outstanding on the BDC loan.

Common shares – Prior to the Separation, our common shares were owned by the Former Parent. After the Separation was completed as described in “Note 10 – Equity”, there were 49.3 million shares issued and outstanding. On December 1, 2023, the common shares began trading on the NYSE under the ticker symbol “WS.”

During fiscal 2025, we declared cash dividends totaling $0.64 per common share at a quarterly rate of $0.16 per common share. During fiscal 2024 and following the Separation, we declared cash dividends totaling $0.32 per common share at a quarterly rate of $0.16 per common share. Prior to the Separation, the Former Parent was the sole owner of Worthington Steel.

On June 25, 2025, during the first quarter of fiscal 2026, the Board declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.16 per common share payable on September 26, 2025, to the shareholders of record at the close of business on September 12, 2025.

There were no common shares purchased by Worthington Steel during the period presented as part of publicly announced plans or programs.

Dividend Policy

We currently have no material contractual or regulatory restrictions on the payment of dividends provided that no event of default exists under the Credit Facility and it meets the minimum availability threshold thereunder. Dividends are declared at the discretion of the Board. The Board reviews the dividend quarterly and establishes the dividend rate based upon our consolidated financial condition, results of operations, capital requirements, current and projected cash flows, business prospects, and other relevant factors. There is no guarantee that we will continue the payments of dividends in the future or that any dividends declared by the Board in the future will be similar in amount or timing to any dividends previously declared by the Board.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

Refer to “Note 1– Description of Business, The Separation, Agreements with the Former Parent and Separation Costs, and Basis of Presentation” for further information.

Environmental

We do not believe that compliance with environmental laws has or will have a material effect on our capital expenditures, future results of operations or financial position or competitive position.

Critical Accounting Estimates

The discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon our consolidated and combined financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with GAAP. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of our financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. We base our estimates on historical experience and various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. These results form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Critical accounting estimates are defined as those estimates made in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles that involve a significant level of estimation uncertainty and have had or are reasonably likely to have a material impact on the financial condition or results of operations. Although actual results historically have not deviated significantly from those determined using our estimates, our financial position or results of operations could be materially different if we were to report under different conditions or to use different assumptions in the application of such estimates. The following accounting estimates are considered to be the most critical to us, as these are the primary areas where financial information is subject to our estimates, assumptions and judgment in the preparation of our consolidated and combined financial statements.

Impairment of Goodwill and Other Indefinite-Lived Long-Lived Assets

Critical estimate: Goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives are not amortized, but instead are tested for impairment annually, during the fourth fiscal quarter, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that impairment may be present. Application of goodwill impairment testing involves judgment, including but not limited to, the identification of reporting units and estimation of the fair value of each reporting unit. A reporting unit is defined as an operating segment or one level below an operating segment. Our operations are organized as a single component, or operating segment, and therefore one reportable segment. Our reporting units, which are one level below our single operating segment, consist of: (1) Flat Rolled Steel Processing; (2) Electrical Steel; and (3) Laser Welding.

For goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets, we test for impairment by first evaluating qualitative factors including macroeconomic conditions, industry and market considerations, cost factors, and overall financial performance. If there are no concerns raised from this evaluation, no further testing is performed. If, however, our qualitative analysis indicates it is more likely than not that the fair value is less than the carrying amount, a quantitative analysis is performed. The quantitative analysis compares the fair value of each reporting unit or indefinite-lived intangible asset to the respective carrying amount, and an impairment loss is recognized in our consolidated and combined statements of earnings equivalent to the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value.

Assumptions and judgments: When performing a qualitative assessment, judgment is required when considering relevant events and circumstances that could affect the fair value of the indefinite lived intangible asset or reporting unit to which goodwill is assigned. Management considers whether events and circumstances such as a change in strategic direction and changes in business climate would impact the fair value of the indefinite lived intangible asset or reporting unit to which goodwill is assigned. If a quantitative analysis is required, assumptions are required to estimate the fair value to compare against the carrying value. Significant assumptions that form the basis of fair value can include discount rates, underlying forecast assumptions and royalty rates. These assumptions are forward looking and can be affected by future economic and market conditions.

During the third quarter of fiscal 2025, the Company identified an impairment indicator for the in-process research and development intangible asset of TWB. The indefinite-lived in-process research & development intangible asset with a net book value of $1.3 million was deemed to be fully impaired as the technology was unable to be commercialized, resulting in a pre-tax impairment charge of $1.3 million recognized in the third quarter of fiscal 2025. Based on the qualitative impairment test performed in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025, we concluded that the fair value of the remaining indefinite-lived intangible assets exceeded the carrying value.

Based on the qualitative impairment test performed in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025 over goodwill, we concluded that the fair value of the reporting units tested for impairment exceeded the carrying value. However, given the delays experienced in the electrical steel market, a lack of recovery or further deterioration in market conditions or a trend of weaker than expected financial performance in our business, among other factors, could result in an impairment charge in future periods in the Electrical Steel reporting unit. This impairment charge could have a material adverse effect on our financial statements. As of the date of our annual impairment testing, $34.8 million of goodwill resides in the Electrical Steel reporting unit.

Impairment of Definite-Lived Long-Lived Assets

Critical estimate: We review the carrying value of our long-lived assets, including intangible assets with finite useful lives, for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of an asset or asset group may not be recoverable. Impairment testing involves a comparison of the sum of the undiscounted future cash flows of the asset or asset group to its respective carrying amount. If the sum of the undiscounted future cash flows exceeds the carrying amount, then no impairment exists. If the carrying amount exceeds the sum of the undiscounted future cash flows, then a second step is performed to determine the amount of impairment, if any, to be recognized. An impairment loss is recognized to the extent that the carrying amount of the asset or asset group exceeds its fair value.

Assumptions and judgments: When performing the comparison of the sum of the undiscounted cash flows of the asset or asset group to its respective carrying amount, judgment is required when forming the basis for underlying cash flow forecast assumptions. Management considers whether events and circumstances such as a change in strategic direction and changes in business climate would impact the fair value of the indefinite lived intangible asset. If the second step of the impairment test is required, assumptions are required to estimate the fair value to compare against the carrying value. Significant assumptions that form the basis of fair value can include discount rates, underlying forecast assumptions, and royalty rates. These assumptions are forward looking and can be affected by future economic and market conditions.

During fiscal 2025, the Company announced plans to combine WSCP’s Cleveland, Ohio toll processing manufacturing facility into its existing manufacturing facility in Twinsburg, Ohio. Operations at the Cleveland, Ohio toll processing manufacturing facility ceased by the end of fiscal 2025, while incremental closure activities are expected to be completed in fiscal 2026. As a result, the Company tested the long-lived assets of the combined asset group for impairment at the lowest level for which there were largely independent cash flows when identifiable, and grouped at a higher level when largely independent cash flows do not exist at a lower level. Other assets were evaluated with applicable accounting guidance outside of long-lived asset guidance. As a result, we recognized a $6.1 million pre-tax impairment charge on the disposal group assets.

Income Taxes

Critical estimate: Prior to the Separation, the income tax provision in the statement of earnings had been calculated as if we were operating on a stand-alone basis and filed separate tax returns in the jurisdictions in which we operate. Therefore, cash tax payments and items of current and deferred taxes may not be reflective of our actual tax balances prior to or subsequent to the Separation.

In accordance with the authoritative accounting guidance, we account for income taxes using the asset and liability method. The asset and liability method requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities for expected future tax consequences of temporary differences that currently exist between the tax basis and financial reporting basis of our assets and liabilities. We evaluate the deferred tax assets to determine whether it is more likely than not that some, or a portion, of the deferred tax assets will not be realized, and provide a valuation allowance as appropriate. Changes in existing tax laws or rates could significantly impact the estimate of our tax liabilities.

We follow the authoritative guidance included in ASC 740, Income Taxes, which contains a two-step approach to recognize and measure uncertain tax positions. The first step is to evaluate the tax position for recognition by determining if the available evidence indicates it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained on audit, including resolution of related appeals or litigation processes, if any. The second step is to measure the tax benefit as the largest amount which is more than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. We consider many factors when evaluating and estimating our tax positions and tax benefits, which may require periodic adjustments and for which actual outcomes may differ from forecasted outcomes. Our policy is to include interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in income tax expense.

Assumptions and judgments: Significant judgment is required in determining our tax expense and in evaluating our tax positions. In accordance with accounting literature related to uncertainty in income taxes, tax benefits from uncertain tax positions that are recognized in our consolidated and combined financial statements are measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. Valuation allowances are recorded if it is more likely than not that some portion of the deferred income tax assets will not be realized. In evaluating the need for a valuation allowance, we consider various factors, including the expected level of future taxable income and available tax planning strategies. Any changes in judgment about the valuation allowance are recorded through Income tax expense and are based on changes in facts and circumstances regarding realizability of deferred tax assets.

We have reserves for income taxes and associated interest and penalties that may become payable in future years as a result of audits by taxing authorities. It is our policy to record these in income tax expense. While we believe the positions taken on previously filed tax returns are appropriate, we have established the tax and interest reserves in recognition that various taxing authorities may challenge our positions. These reserves are analyzed periodically, and adjustments are made as events occur to warrant adjustment to the reserves, such as lapsing of applicable statutes of limitations, conclusion of tax audits, additional exposure based on current calculations, identification of new issues, and release of administrative guidance or court decisions affecting a particular tax issue. We have provided for the amounts we believe will ultimately result from these changes; however, due to the complexity of some of these uncertainties, the ultimate resolution may result in a payment that is materially different from our current estimate of the tax liabilities. Such differences will be reflected as increases or decreases to income tax expense in the period in which they are determined. See “Note 13 – Income Taxes” for further information.

Employee Pension Plans

Critical estimate: Defined benefit pension and other post-employment benefit (“OPEB”) plan obligations are remeasured at least annually as of May 31 based on the present value of projected future benefit payments for all participants for services rendered to date. The measurement of projected future benefits is dependent on the provisions of each specific plan, demographics of the group covered by the plan and other key measurement assumptions. The funded status of these benefit plans, which represents the difference between the benefit obligation and the fair value of plan assets, is calculated on a plan-by-plan basis. The benefit obligation and related funded status are determined using assumptions as of the end of each fiscal year. Net periodic benefit cost is included in other income (expense) in our consolidated and combined statements of earnings, except for the service cost component, which is recorded in SG&A.

Assumptions and judgments: Certain actuarial assumptions used in developing the pension and post-retirement accounting estimates include expected long-term rate of return on plan assets, discount rates, projected health care cost trend rates, cost of living adjustments, and mortality rates. We believe discount rates and expected return on assets are the most critical assumptions. The discount rates used to measure plan liabilities as of the measurement date are determined individually for each plan. The discount rates are determined by matching the projected cash flows used to determine the plan liabilities to the projected yield curve of high-quality corporate bonds available at the measurement date.

In developing future long-term return expectations for our benefit plans’ assets, we formulate views on the future economic environment. We evaluate general market trends and historical relationships among a number of key variables that impact asset class returns such as expected earnings growth, inflation, valuations, yields, and spreads. We also consider expected volatility by asset class and diversification across classes to determine expected overall portfolio results given current and target allocations. Net periodic benefit costs, including service cost, interest cost, and expected return on assets, are determined using assumptions regarding the benefit obligation and the fair value of plan assets as of the beginning of each fiscal year.

Holding all other factors constant, a decrease in the discount rate by 0.25% would have increased the projected benefit obligation at May 31, 2025 by approximately $1.3 million. Also, holding all other factors constant, a decrease in the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets by 0.25% would have increased fiscal 2025 pension expense by approximately $0.2 million.

See “Note 12 – Employee Retirement Plans” for further information.

Business Combinations

Critical estimate: We account for business combinations using the acquisition method of accounting, which requires that once control is obtained, all the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are recorded at their respective fair values at the date of acquisition. The determination of fair values of identifiable assets and liabilities requires significant judgments and estimates and the use of valuation techniques when market value is not readily available. For the valuation of intangible assets acquired in a business combination, we typically use an income approach. The purchase price allocated to the intangible assets is based on unobservable assumptions, inputs and estimates, including but not limited to, forecasted revenue growth rates, projected expenses, discount rates, customer attrition rates, royalty rates, and useful lives.

Assumptions and judgments: Significant assumptions, which vary by the class of asset or liability, are forward looking and could be affected by future economic and market conditions. We engage third-party valuation specialists who review our critical assumptions and prepare the calculation of the fair value of acquired intangible assets in connection with significant business combinations. The excess of the purchase price over the fair values of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed is recorded as goodwill. During the measurement period, which is up to one year from the acquisition date, we may record adjustments to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed with the corresponding offset to goodwill. Upon the conclusion of the measurement period, any subsequent adjustments are recorded to earnings.

See “Note 15 – Acquisitions” for further information.

Corporate Allocations

Critical estimate: Prior to the Separation, we operated as part of the Former Parent and not as a stand-alone company. Accordingly, certain shared costs were allocated to us and are reflected as expenses in the accompanying financial statements for the periods prior to the Separation Date.

Assumptions and judgments: As a separate public company, our total costs related to such support functions will differ from the costs that were historically allocated to us due to economies of scale, difference in management judgment, a requirement for more or fewer employees, expenses associated with being a public company, and other factors. In addition, the expenses reflected in the financial statements may not be indicative of expenses that will be incurred in the future by us. The pre-Separation expenses were allocated to us on the basis of direct usage when identifiable, with the remainder allocated on the basis of either profitability or headcount depending on the underlying nature of the activity. We consider the basis on which expenses have been allocated to be a reasonable reflection of the services provided to or the benefit derived from the use of such support functions. There are no such allocations for fiscal 2025 given the Separation occurred in fiscal 2024.

See “Note 19 – Related Party Transactions” for further information.

In the normal course of business, we are exposed to various market risks. We continually monitor these risks and regularly develop appropriate strategies to manage them. Accordingly, from time to time, we may enter into certain financial and commodity-based derivative financial instruments. These instruments are used primarily to mitigate market exposure. Refer to “Note 16 – Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities” for additional information.

Commodity Price Risk

We are exposed to market risk for price fluctuations on purchases of raw materials as well as our utility requirements. We attempt to negotiate the best prices for commodities and to competitively price products and services to reflect the fluctuations in market prices. Derivative financial instruments have been used to manage a portion of our exposure to fluctuations in the cost of certain commodities, including steel, natural gas, zinc, scrap and other raw materials. These contracts covered periods commensurate with known or expected exposures throughout fiscal 2025. The derivative financial instruments were executed with highly rated financial institutions. No credit loss is anticipated.

Foreign Exchange Rate Risk

Although the substantial majority of our business activity takes place in the U.S., we derive a portion of our revenues and earnings from operations in foreign countries. Our foreign currency exposure primarily consists of the Canadian dollar, Mexican peso, Chinese yuan, Indian rupee, and Euro through our operations in Canada, Mexico, China, India, and Germany, respectively. We have exposure to exchange rate fluctuations, both due to translation and transaction exposures. Translation exposures arise from measuring income statements of foreign subsidiaries with functional currencies other than the U.S. dollar. Transaction exposures involve impacts from 1) input costs that are denominated in currencies other than the local reporting currency and 2) revaluation of working capital balances denominated in currencies other than the functional currency. In response to the devaluation of foreign currencies (including those deemed highly inflationary), any lags or inability (due to government restrictions) to implement price increases or the negative impacts of such actions may lead to a decline in our net earnings and cash flows.

Derivative financial instruments have been used to manage a portion of our exposure to fluctuations in the certain foreign currencies. These contracts covered periods commensurate with known or expected exposures throughout fiscal 2025. The derivative financial instruments were executed with highly rated financial institutions. No credit loss is anticipated.

Total foreign currency transaction gains and losses included in our net earnings were gains of $2.4 million in 2025, which included a $4.0 million gain on Sitem Group purchase derivative, $0.9 million in 2024, and $2.6 million in 2023, respectively.

The fair values of our outstanding derivative positions as of May 31, 2025 and 2024 are summarized below. Fair values of these derivative financial instruments do not consider the offsetting impact of the underlying hedged item.

(In millions)

A sensitivity analysis of changes in the price of hedged commodities and foreign currency exchange contracts indicates that a 10% decline in the market prices of steel, zinc, scrap, natural gas or any combination of these, or a 10% decrease in the hedge currencies would not have a material impact to the value of our hedges or our reported results.

Interest Rate Risk

We are exposed to market risk related to our variable-rate debt via our Credit Facility. Under our current policies, we do not use interest rate derivative instruments to manage exposure to interest rate changes. Changes in interest rates may decrease pretax net earnings resulting from an increase in interest rates. As of May 31, 2025, we had $149.2 million outstanding under the Credit Facility.

A sensitivity analysis of changes in the interest rate on the Credit Facility indicates that a 10% increase in the interest rate would not have a material impact to the value of pretax net earnings. Consequently, any future borrowings on our Credit Facility will increase market risk resulting from potential interest rate volatility.

Safe Harbor

Quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk include forward-looking statements with respect to management’s opinion about risks associated with the use of derivative financial instruments. These statements are based on certain assumptions with respect to market prices and industry supply of, and demand for, steel products and certain raw materials. To the extent these assumptions prove to be inaccurate, future outcomes with respect to hedging programs may differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Refer to the “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” section at the beginning of this Form 10-K for additional information.

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

As of the end of the period covered by this Form 10-K (the fiscal year ended May 31, 2025), we carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our CEO and Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”), of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures, as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Exchange Act. Based upon that evaluation, our management, including our CEO and CFO, concluded that as of the end of the period covered by this Form 10-K, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective and designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in reports we file or submit under the Exchange Act is (1) recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms, and (2) accumulated and communicated to our management, including our CEO and CFO, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

Annual Report of Management on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a‑15(f) and 15d‑15(f) under the Exchange Act, for external purposes in accordance with GAAP. Internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of Worthington Steel and its consolidated subsidiaries; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP, and that receipts and expenditures of Worthington Steel and its consolidated subsidiaries are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of Worthington Steel and our consolidated subsidiaries, as appropriate; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the assets of Worthington Steel and its consolidated subsidiaries that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Management, with the participation of Worthington Steel’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer, evaluated the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of May 31, 2025, the end of our fiscal year. Management based its assessment on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. The scope of the assessment included all of our consolidated operations.

Management’s assessment included an evaluation of elements such as the design and operating effectiveness of key controls over financial reporting, process documentation, accounting policies and our overall control environment. This assessment is supported by testing and monitoring performed under the direction of management.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. Accordingly, even an effective system of internal control over financial reporting will provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation.

Based on the assessment of our internal control over financial reporting, management has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of May 31, 2025. The results of management’s assessment were reviewed with the Audit Committee of the Board.

Additionally, Worthington Steel’s independent registered public accounting firm, KPMG LLP, independently assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting and issued the accompanying Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Shareholders and Board of Directors

Worthington Steel, Inc.:

Opinion on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

We have audited Worthington Steel, Inc. and subsidiaries' (the Company) internal control over financial reporting as of May 31, 2025, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of May 31, 2025, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated balance sheets of the Company as of May 31, 2025 and 2024, the related consolidated and combined statements of earnings, comprehensive income, shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended May 31, 2025, and the related notes and financial statement schedule II (collectively, the consolidated and combined financial statements), and our report dated July 29, 2025 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated and combined financial statements.

Basis for Opinion

The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Annual Report of Management on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

/s/ KPMG LLP

Indianapolis, Indiana

July 29, 2025