Core Insights - Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) has liquidated nearly 12 stocks listed in the U.S. during Q3, including Pinterest and Linde, reducing its U.S. equity holdings to the lowest level in a year [1] - The fund's U.S. stock portfolio value has decreased to $19.4 billion, representing an approximate 18% quarter-over-quarter decline, marking the lowest level since 2025 [1][2] - PIF continues to hold shares in Uber and Electronic Arts but has slightly reduced its stake in Lucid Group [1][3] Exits and Position Changes - Significant exits include: - Cummins: -1,095,578 shares, value change of -$358.80 million, with a price change of +29% [2] - Linde: -436,350 shares, value change of -$204.73 million, with a price change of +1.2% [2] - Air Products: -268,165 shares, value change of -$75.64 million, with a price change of -3.3% [2] - Avery Dennison: -231,662 shares, value change of -$40.65 million, with a price change of -7.6% [2] Top Holdings - PIF's major holdings in the U.S. include: - Uber: 72,840,541 shares valued at $7.14 billion, accounting for 3.5% of the portfolio [3] - Electronic Arts: 24,807,932 shares valued at $5.00 billion, accounting for 9.9% of the portfolio [3] - Lucid Group: 177,088,867 shares valued at $4.21 billion, accounting for 22% of the portfolio [3] - Take-Two Interactive: 11,414,680 shares valued at $2.95 billion, accounting for 6.2% of the portfolio [3] Strategic Focus - The recent divestments align with PIF's strategy to focus on domestic investments to support Saudi Arabia's economic diversification plan [2][4] - PIF aims to invest $70 billion post-2025, primarily within Saudi Arabia, with $57 billion already allocated for 2024 [5] - Further details on PIF's investment strategy for 2026-2030 are expected to be released early next year [5]

Core Insights - The article highlights the deep collaboration between global industrial capital and local high-quality development in Xi'an, particularly through the investment of Air Products, a leading industrial gas company, which has been actively involved in the city's industrial upgrade since 2012 [1][2]. Group 1: Company Investment and Development - Air Products has significantly increased its investment in Xi'an, aligning its growth trajectory with the city's industrial and urban development [1]. - The company established a gas plant in Xi'an's high-tech zone, covering an area of 55,000 square meters, equipped with two large air separation units and a hydrogen generation unit, supplying ultra-pure nitrogen and oxygen [2][3]. - Over the past decade, the plant has ensured the safe and efficient operation of customer production lines, supporting Xi'an's industrial foundation [3]. Group 2: Industry Integration and Innovation - Air Products is deeply embedded in high-end industrial chains such as semiconductor manufacturing, biomedicine, and renewable energy, providing essential gases that enhance product yield, quality, and environmental performance [2]. - The company is transitioning from serving traditional industries to providing specialized gas solutions for emerging sectors like new energy vehicles and photonics, integrating into Xi'an's modern industrial system [5][6]. Group 3: Government Support and Business Environment - The supportive business environment in Xi'an, characterized by efficient government coordination, has facilitated the company's operations, as noted by Air Products' China Vice President [8][9]. - Xi'an's government has implemented various measures to enhance the investment climate, including a comprehensive service plan for industrial projects that extends from pre-signing to post-production phases [10]. - Air Products actively participates in the Xi'an Foreign Investment Enterprises Association, fostering communication between businesses and the government to address common concerns and promote the city's investment advantages [12]. Group 4: Future Outlook - The company plans to continue focusing on Xi'an's strategic emerging industries by providing high-purity gases and advanced process solutions to support local high-tech manufacturing upgrades [6][7]. - The collaboration between Xi'an and multinational companies is expected to accelerate under the synergy of policies, industries, and capital [12].

Group 1 - Air Products and Chemicals Inc. (APD) is recognized as one of the 15 Best Dividend Growth Stocks to buy now [1] - RBC Capital has maintained an Outperform rating on APD while lowering its price target from $350 to $325, citing a rally in shares post-earnings and awaiting clarity on the LA Blue project [2] - The company is focused on addressing global energy and environmental challenges through advancements in gasification, carbon capture, and clean hydrogen [3] Group 2 - APD is advancing several major hydrogen projects, including the NEOM Green Hydrogen Project in Saudi Arabia, which is 80% complete and expected to begin production by 2027 [4] - Additional projects include an $8 billion blue hydrogen project in Louisiana, a $3.3 billion project in Canada, and a $360 million green hydrogen facility in Arizona, anticipated to start operations in 2026 [4] - The company continues to strengthen its position in the clean energy sector as a global leader in industrial gases and LNG processing technology [5]

Core Viewpoint - Air Products (NYSE: APD) is a leading industrial gas company with over 80 years of history, focusing on providing essential industrial gases and related technologies to various industries, contributing to a cleaner future [6]. Group 1: Company Overview - Air Products operates in 50 countries with projected sales of $12.1 billion for the fiscal year 2024 and a current market capitalization of approximately $60 billion [6]. - The company offers high-quality industrial gases, including oxygen, nitrogen, argon, hydrogen, carbon dioxide, acetylene, ethylene, methane, and carbon monoxide, to advanced materials manufacturers [6]. Group 2: Product and Service Offerings - Air Products provides comprehensive gas application solutions for anode materials and solid-state battery materials, aimed at improving product quality, reducing operational costs, and enhancing output [6]. - The company features an intelligent multi-atmosphere monitoring system that efficiently detects various gas compositions in different atmospheric scenarios, saving customers time and costs [9]. Group 3: Event and Sponsorship - The 2026 Silicon-based Anode and Solid-State Battery Summit is highlighted, with various companies sponsoring the event, including Weifang Fumei New Energy Co., Ltd. and others [15]. - The event schedule includes registration on November 12 and a full-day conference on November 13 [15].

Core Insights - Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. (APD) has experienced a significant decline in share value, losing over 20% in the past year [1] Company Performance - The year 2025 has been particularly disruptive for Air Products, impacting its overall performance negatively [1]

Core Insights - Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. (APD) reported fourth-quarter fiscal 2025 earnings from continuing operations of 2 cents per share, a significant decline from $8.81 in the same quarter last year. Adjusted earnings per share were $3.39, down from $3.56, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.41 [1][8] Revenue Performance - The company generated revenues of $3,166.9 million, a decrease of approximately 1% year over year, falling short of the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3,217.7 million. The decline was attributed to lower volumes, although it was somewhat offset by higher energy cost pass-through and favorable currency effects [2][8] - In the Americas segment, revenues decreased by 1% year over year to $1,290.1 million, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1,357 million. This decline was primarily due to lower volumes, partially mitigated by higher energy cost pass-through and increased pricing [3] - The Europe segment saw a 1% increase in revenues year over year to $789.4 million, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $784 million. This growth was driven by higher energy cost pass-through and favorable currency, which offset lower volumes and reduced pricing [4] - Revenues in the Asia segment rose by 8% year over year to $869.8 million, driven by higher volumes, favorable currency exchange impacts, and increased pricing, although it missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $876 million [4] Financial Position - At the end of the fiscal fourth quarter, the company had cash and cash equivalents of approximately $1,856 million, a decrease of around 38% year over year. Long-term debt increased to $16,769.9 million, up roughly 25% year over year [5] Future Outlook - The company anticipates adjusted earnings per share for fiscal 2026 to be in the range of $12.85 to $13.15. For the first quarter of fiscal 2026, adjusted earnings are projected to be between $2.95 and $3.10. Additionally, capital expenditures for the full fiscal year are expected to be around $4 billion [6][8] Stock Performance - Over the past year, the company's shares have declined by 24.1%, compared to a 40.3% decline in the Zacks Chemicals Diversified industry [7]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported earnings per share (EPS) of $12.03, which is above the midpoint of the full-year fiscal guidance range [5] - Operating income margin was 23.7%, and return on capital (ROC) was 10.1%, both in line with commitments [5] - The EPS decreased by $0.40 or 3% from the prior year, primarily due to a 4% headwind from LNG divestiture and a 2% headwind from project exits [16][19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Americas segment saw a 3% decline, impacted by a one-time asset sale and project exits [17] - Asia's results were relatively flat, with lower helium offset by favorable on-site contributions [18] - Europe's fiscal year results improved by 4%, driven by non-helium merchant pricing and productivity [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company faced headwinds from reduced global helium demand, which affected volume and pricing across regions [15][19] - The market for green ammonia is developing, with expectations for significant demand growth as regulations evolve [11][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims for high single-digit annual EPS growth and plans to optimize its large projects portfolio [6] - Capital expenditures are expected to be reduced to approximately $2.5 billion per year after completing several large projects [7] - The focus remains on balancing capital allocation while improving the balance sheet and returning cash to shareholders [7] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged challenges from helium headwinds and a sluggish macroeconomic environment but remains optimistic about productivity and pricing actions [6][19] - The company expects to be modestly cash flow positive in fiscal year 2026 and aims to stay cash flow neutral through 2028 [21] Other Important Information - The company returned $1.6 billion to shareholders in fiscal 2025, marking the 43rd consecutive year of increasing dividends [5] - A total of 3,600 headcount reductions have been identified, expected to contribute approximately $250 million in annual cost savings [8] Q&A Session Summary Question: Evaluation of carbon capture piece of the Louisiana project - Management explained that they are evaluating proposals to divest the carbon capture piece while still considering the project's future [24][25] Question: Cost overruns on the Alberta project - Management confirmed a long-term commitment to supply hydrogen to a major customer, necessitating the project's completion despite cost overruns [26][27] Question: Headcount and cost savings - Management indicated that the targeted headcount of 20,000 is expected to be a new base, with ongoing efforts to optimize the workforce [31] Question: CapEx forecast changes - Management clarified that the CapEx forecast for fiscal 2026 has been adjusted to around $4 billion based on a bottom-up review of capital spending [59] Question: Helium headwind projections - Management confirmed a projected 4% headwind from helium for FY2026, with confidence in managing volume and pricing despite market challenges [93] Question: Decision on Louisiana project - Management indicated that a decision on the Louisiana project will be communicated by the end of the year, with ongoing negotiations progressing [50][54] Question: Growth in the electronics segment - Management highlighted that electronics represent about 17% of total sales and is a rapidly expanding market, with ongoing investments in new plants [66][68]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported earnings per share (EPS) of $12.03, which is above the midpoint of the full-year fiscal guidance range [5] - Operating income margin was 23.7%, and return on capital (ROC) was 10.1%, both in line with commitments [5] - The EPS decreased by $0.40 or 3% from the prior year, primarily due to a 4% headwind from LNG divestiture and a 2% headwind from project exits [16][19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Americas segment results were down 3%, impacted by a one-time asset sale and project exits, but offset by strong non-helium pricing and productivity improvements [17] - Asia's results were relatively flat, with lower helium demand offset by favorable pricing and productivity [18] - Europe's results improved by 4%, driven by non-helium merchant pricing and productivity, despite lower helium contributions [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company faced a 2% headwind from reduced global helium demand, affecting overall volume [15] - The market for green ammonia is developing, with expectations for significant demand growth by 2030 [11][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims for high single-digit annual EPS growth and plans to optimize its large projects portfolio, including the NEOM project [6][7] - Capital expenditures are expected to be reduced to approximately $2.5 billion per year after completing several large projects, allowing for ongoing maintenance and investments in traditional industrial gas projects [7][10] - The company is focusing on productivity improvements and has identified 3,600 headcount reductions, translating to approximately $250 million in annual cost savings [8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged challenges from helium headwinds and a sluggish macroeconomic environment but remains optimistic about achieving growth through new asset contributions and pricing actions [19][21] - The company expects to be modestly cash flow positive in fiscal year 2026 and aims to stay cash flow neutral through 2028 [21] Other Important Information - The NEOM project is about 90% complete, with ammonia production expected to start in 2027 [11] - The company is evaluating proposals to divest the carbon sequestration piece of the Louisiana project, linking it to potential hydrogen supply agreements [24][25] Q&A Session Summary Question: Evaluation of Carbon Capture in Louisiana Project - The company is considering selling the carbon capture piece and potentially supplying hydrogen to the buyer [24][25] Question: Alberta Project Cost Overruns - The company has a long-term commitment to supply hydrogen to a major customer, necessitating the completion of the project despite cost overruns [26][27] Question: Headcount Reduction Target - The target of 20,000 headcount is expected to be the new base, with ongoing efforts to optimize workforce levels [31] Question: CapEx for Louisiana Project - The company will provide CapEx data when updating the project, emphasizing that no off-take deals mean no final investment decision [32] Question: Growth Drivers for Next Year - Expected growth will come from new assets and pricing actions, with a minimal volume growth forecast due to macroeconomic headwinds [37][39] Question: Helium Market Outlook - The company anticipates continued headwinds from helium but expects stabilization in 2027 [40][41] Question: NEOM Project Commercialization - The company plans to commercialize ammonia initially, with expectations for a growing market for green ammonia [44][45] Question: Equity Affiliates Income - The Mexican joint venture saw improvements, while contributions from the Jazan joint venture are expected to pick up in 2026 [46][47] Question: Decision Timeline for Louisiana Project - The company is working on advanced negotiations and aims to communicate updates before the end of the year [50][53] Question: CapEx Flexibility - The CapEx forecast for fiscal 2026 is between $3.5 billion and $4 billion, with no significant changes expected [91][92]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported earnings per share (EPS) of $12.03, which is above the midpoint of the full-year fiscal guidance range [4] - Operating income margin was 23.7%, and return on capital (ROC) was 10.1%, both in line with commitments [4] - The EPS decreased by $0.40 or 3% from the prior year, primarily due to a 4% headwind from LNG divestiture and a 2% headwind from project exits [16][19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Americas segment results were down 3%, impacted by a one-time asset sale and project exits [17] - Asia's results were relatively flat, with lower helium offset by favorable on-site contributions [18] - Europe's results improved by 4%, driven by non-helium merchant pricing and productivity [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company faced a 2% headwind from reduced global helium demand, affecting overall volume [14] - Pricing for non-helium merchant products was favorable across all regions, helping to offset some volume declines [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims for high single-digit annual EPS growth in 2026, despite anticipated helium headwinds [5] - Key priorities include optimizing the large projects portfolio, particularly the NEOM project, and balancing capital allocation [5][6] - Capital expenditures are expected to be reduced to approximately $2.5 billion per year after completing several large projects [6] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about returning to staffing levels similar to 2018, adjusted for employee growth, to support new assets [7] - The company is focused on improving productivity and pricing actions to counteract inflation and lower capital expenditure levels [8] - Management anticipates a modestly cash flow positive position in fiscal year 2026, with a commitment to remain cash flow neutral through 2028 [20] Other Important Information - The company returned $1.6 billion to shareholders in fiscal 2025, marking the 43rd consecutive year of increasing dividends [4] - The NEOM project is about 90% complete, with ammonia production expected to start in 2027 [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: Evaluation of carbon capture piece of the Louisiana project - Management explained that they are evaluating proposals to divest the carbon capture piece while still considering the project's future [24][25] Question: Cost overruns in Alberta project - Management confirmed a long-term commitment to supply hydrogen to a major customer, necessitating the project's completion despite cost overruns [26][27] Question: Employee headcount target - The target of 20,000 headcount is expected to be the new base, with ongoing efforts to rationalize the workforce [31] Question: CapEx remaining for Louisiana project - Management indicated that they would provide data on remaining CapEx when updating the project, emphasizing the need for off-take agreements [33] Question: Growth drivers for next year - Management expects contributions from new assets and productivity improvements to drive growth, with a focus on pricing actions [37][38] Question: Helium industry outlook - Management noted that while there may be a decline in helium demand in 2027, they expect stabilization thereafter [40][42] Question: NEOM project commercial options - Management stated that they will need to commercialize the product as ammonia initially, with expectations for growth in green ammonia sales over time [46] Question: Equity affiliates income growth - Management highlighted strong performance from the Mexican joint venture, with expectations for flat contributions in fiscal year 2026 [48] Question: Decision timeline for Louisiana project - Management confirmed that they are working on advanced negotiations and expect to communicate updates by the end of the year [52][56] Question: CapEx forecast changes - Management clarified that the CapEx forecast for fiscal 2026 was adjusted to $4 billion based on a refined bottom-up review [62]

Fiscal Fourth Quarter 2025 Earnings Results Teleconference November 6, 2025 Forward-Looking Statements This presentation contains "forward-looking statements" within the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements about earnings and capital expenditure guidance, business outlook and investment opportunities. These forward-looking statements are based on management's expectations and assumptions as of the date of this presentation and are not guarantee ...