SKF reports improved margin for Q2 2026
SKF reported an improved adjusted operating margin of 13.9% for the second quarter of 2026, with net sales remaining stable. The company is proceeding with the separation of its automotive business.
GOTHENBURG, Sweden – Bearing manufacturer SKF announced its second-quarter 2026 results, showing a year-over-year improvement in profitability while net sales remained largely unchanged at MSEK 23,195, compared to MSEK 23,166 in the prior year.
The company achieved organic growth of 1.4%, primarily driven by strong sales within its industrial segments, offsetting a decline in demand from the automotive sector. The adjusted operating margin increased to 13.9% from 13.3% in the second quarter of 2025, attributed to strong commercial execution, particularly within Specialized Industrial Solutions (SIS).
SKF is progressing with the separation of its automotive business, targeting a stock market listing in the fourth quarter of 2026. This ongoing separation process led to an increase in working capital and a net cash flow from operating activities of MSEK 2,055, down from MSEK 2,817 in the same period last year.
Looking ahead to the third quarter, SKF anticipates a moderate strengthening of organic sales growth year-over-year, based on signs of improving market demand observed in certain industries during Q2. However, the company cautioned that geopolitical uncertainties continue to create a less predictable operating environment.