Executive Summary of the Continental 2024 Annual Report

Sales Performance: Total sales declined to €39.7 billion, a decrease of 4.1% from the previous year. Despite the dip, EBITDA increased by 10.3% to €4.5 billion, contributing to an improved adjusted EBIT margin of 6.8%.
Financial Highlights:
Net income attributable to shareholders rose by 1.0% to €1.168 billion.
Free cash flow was €1.05 billion, surpassing expectations due to inventory reduction and strong contributions from the Automotive sector.
Gearing ratio improved to 25.1%, indicating a stronger balance sheet with a 40% equity ratio.
Strategic Developments: Plans to spin off the Automotive and Contract Manufacturing sectors were announced to increase agility and transparency, aimed for completion by late 2025. The Tires group continues to thrive with targeted investments in sustainable and high-performance products.
Market Outlook: Growth is expected in Automotive and Tires sectors, particularly from Asian manufacturers and the electric vehicle market. A focus on operational efficiency and strategic agility will underpin forthcoming efforts.
Human Capital: The workforce decreased by 6.2% to 190,159 employees. The emphasis remains on fostering a culture of innovation and inclusivity.
Shareholder Returns: A proposed dividend of €2.50 per share reflects a commitment to rewarding shareholders amidst challenging market conditions.