Samsung Heavy expands net loss in Q1 by 308 billion won

Samsung Heavy Industries Co.'s net loss expanded to 535.9 billion won in the first quarter from a net loss of 227 billion won a year ago due to the COVID-19 pandemic and a surge in prices of steel plates.

The shipbuilder's operating loss for the quarter was at 506.8 billion won, narrowing from an operating loss of 47.8 billion won a year earlier.

It was attributed to the increased cost due to the rise in steel plate prices, allowances, and the evaluation losses from its five drillships.

Sales dropped 13.8 percent on-year to 1.57 trillion won.

With new orders for 42 ships worth $5.1 billion in the first quarter, Samsung Heavy revised its annual order target to $9.1 billion from the current $7.8 billion.

Samsung Heavy claims its cash flow is in good shape, with cash on hand reaching 1.2 trillion won.

To improve its financial health, the shipbuilder is reducing the face value of its shares by 80 percent from 5,000 won to 1,000 won. Since the number of its outstanding shares will remain the same, the capital reduction will not hurt the valuation of its shareholders' holdings.

The shipbuilder also plans to raise 1 trillion won by selling its new shares.