Financial Performance - Total revenues for the third quarter of 2025 were $871.2 million, a 4.8% increase from $831.1 million in the same period of 2024[62] - Net earnings attributable to Kirby for the third quarter of 2025 were $92.5 million, compared to $90.0 million in the third quarter of 2024, representing a 1.7% increase[62] - For the third quarter of 2025, marine transportation revenues were $484,941,000, a slight decrease from $486,054,000 in the same quarter of 2024, while revenues for the first nine months of 2025 were $1,453,652,000, up 1% from $1,446,274,000 in 2024[88] - Operating income for the third quarter of 2025 decreased by 11% to $88,569,000 compared to $99,476,000 in the third quarter of 2024, and for the first nine months, it decreased by 1% to $274,205,000 from $277,335,000[89] - Marine Transportation operating income decreased by 11% in Q3 2025 and 1% in the first nine months compared to 2024, with operating margins of 18.3% and 18.9%, respectively[105] Revenue Sources - KMT generated 56% of the Company's revenues in the third quarter of 2025, down from 58% in the same quarter of 2024[65] - KDS revenues increased by 12% in the third quarter of 2025 compared to the same quarter in 2024, with operating income rising by 40%[75] - The inland tank barge fleet contributed 78% of KMT revenues in the third quarter of 2025, while the coastal fleet contributed 22%[68] - The refined petroleum products market contributed 24% of KMT revenues in the third quarter of 2025, reflecting stable volumes and refinery utilization[95] - Approximately 70% of KMT inland revenues were under term contracts in both the third quarter and first nine months of 2025, compared to 65% in the same periods of 2024[98] Operating Costs and Expenses - The Company expects inflationary pressures to continue affecting operating costs in the inland marine transportation market, with limited new barge construction and increasing equipment costs contributing to long-term price increases[80] - Selling, general and administrative expenses increased by 3% in Q3 2025 and 5% in the first nine months compared to the same periods in 2024, primarily due to inflationary pressures and salary increases[103] - Depreciation and amortization rose by 8% in Q3 2025 and the first nine months compared to 2024, driven by capital additions and equipment acquisitions[104] Capital Expenditures and Debt - Capital expenditures for the first nine months of 2025 totaled $217.4 million, with projections for 2025 expected to be between $260 million and $290 million[63] - Long-term debt increased by 20% to $1,041.6 million as of September 30, 2025, primarily due to increased borrowings under the 2027 Revolving Credit Facility[123] - As of September 30, 2025, the company's total long-term debt was $1,048.9 million, an increase from $874.9 million on December 31, 2024, representing a 19.9% increase[125] - The debt-to-capitalization ratio increased to 23.8% as of September 30, 2025, up from 20.7% at the end of 2024[64] Cash Flow and Liquidity - Net cash provided by operating activities for the first nine months of 2025 was $358.0 million, a decrease from $509.1 million in the same period of 2024[62] - The company generated net cash from operating activities of $358.0 million in the first nine months of 2025, a 30% decrease compared to $509.1 million in the same period of 2024[130] - As of September 30, 2025, the company had cash and cash equivalents of $70 million and $345 million available under its 2027 Revolving Credit Facility[133] - The company expects to fund future expenditures through a combination of available cash, operating cash flows, and financing arrangements[135] Operational Efficiency - The Company experienced a 30% reduction in delay days for inland operations in the third quarter of 2025, with 1,442 delay days compared to 2,061 in the same quarter of 2024[97] - The average inland barge utilization was in the mid-80% range during the third quarter of 2025, down from the 90% range in the third quarter of 2024[92] - Inland operations consumed 12.5 million gallons of diesel fuel in Q3 2025, up from 11.3 million gallons in Q3 2024, with an average price of $2.46 per gallon compared to $2.65 per gallon in Q3 2024[102] Future Outlook - The Company expects improved financial results in 2025, with anticipated barge utilization rates in the fourth quarter to exceed those of the third quarter[79] - The company anticipates continued strong growth in power generation orders driven by data center demand and the need for backup power, despite near-term volatility in the oil and gas market[81]

Core Insights - Skylands Capital increased its position in Kirby Corporation by 46,750 shares, valued at $8.77 million, reflecting a change of $2.15 million based on quarterly average prices [1] - Kirby Corporation's stock price as of November 5, 2025, was $106.25, down 9.2% over the past year, underperforming the S&P 500 by 26.8 percentage points [2] - Kirby Corporation reported a revenue of $3.31 billion and a net income of $305.58 million for the trailing twelve months [3] Investment Activity - Skylands Capital's investment in Kirby now represents 1.21% of its 13F assets under management, with Kirby being the 23rd largest holding out of 163 total [2][5] - The firm raised its stake in Kirby by 80% in the third quarter of 2025, and the stock was up by 29% from its price at the end of September [5] Company Overview - Kirby Corporation specializes in marine transportation and diesel engine services, focusing on transporting bulk liquid products and providing engine maintenance [4] - The company serves major petrochemical, refining, and agricultural companies primarily in the United States, leveraging a diversified fleet and technical expertise [4] Financial Performance - Kirby's third-quarter sales increased by $40 million year over year, contributing to an expansion in its bottom line, with earnings per share rising by 6% year over year [6] - Power generation revenue surged by 56% year over year, driven by strong demand in data centers, despite challenges in the coastal marine segment [6]

Core Viewpoint - United Airlines is reducing its flight schedule at 40 domestic airports due to government directives, while still maintaining a significant number of daily flights and offering customer support options [2][5]. Group 1: Schedule Reductions - The FAA and DOT have instructed airlines, including United, to reduce their schedules at 40 domestic airports to alleviate pressure on the aviation system [2][5]. - United Airlines will implement these schedule reductions starting November 7, focusing on regional and domestic mainline flights that do not connect its hubs [2]. Group 2: Customer Communication and Support - United Airlines will communicate any flight changes directly to customers through its app, website, and push notifications, offering rebooking options [3][5]. - Customers affected by the schedule changes can receive refunds, even for non-refundable and basic economy tickets, if they choose not to fly [3][5]. Group 3: Operational Capacity - Despite the schedule reductions, United and its United Express partners will still operate approximately 4,000 flights daily [3][5]. - The timing in early November, with more available seats than the summer, should help accommodate customers whose flights are canceled [4].

Core Viewpoint - Baxter International, Inc. is facing a federal securities class action lawsuit due to allegations of misleading investors regarding the safety and performance of its Novum LVP device, which has been linked to serious patient risks and malfunctions [3][4]. Summary by Sections Lawsuit Details - The lawsuit is on behalf of investors who acquired Baxter securities between February 23, 2022, and July 30, 2025, alleging that the company failed to disclose critical safety issues with the Novum LVP [3]. - Allegations include systemic defects leading to malfunctions such as underinfusion, overinfusion, and non-delivery of fluids, which posed risks of serious injury or death to patients [3]. Safety Concerns - Safety issues regarding the Novum LVP emerged on April 7, 2025, following a whistleblower report about inaccurate infusion [4]. - Baxter issued warning letters to customers about underinfusion risks, initially disclosing only one serious injury, but later acknowledging 79 reports of serious injuries and two patient deaths related to the device [4]. Financial Impact - Following the announcement of a voluntary pause in shipments and installations of the Novum LVP on July 31, 2025, Baxter's share price fell by $6.29, approximately 22.4%, from $28.05 to $21.76 [4].

Group 1 - The FAA has directed airlines to reduce their schedules during the government shutdown, affecting 40 domestic airports, with a focus on maintaining safety in the aviation system [2][3] - United Airlines' long-haul international flights and hub-to-hub operations will remain unaffected by the FAA's schedule reduction, while regional and domestic mainline flights will see reductions [3][5] - United Airlines will communicate flight changes and rebooking options to customers through its app, website, and push notifications, and customers are eligible for refunds even for non-refundable tickets if they choose not to fly [4][5] Group 2 - Despite the schedule reductions, United Airlines and its United Express partners will continue to operate approximately 4,000 flights per day, with more available seats than before the summer, allowing for better accommodation of customers [5][6] - The company has launched a new MileagePlus® Debit Rewards Card, providing cardmembers additional ways to earn miles through spending [7] - United Airlines reported a third-quarter profit that exceeded Wall Street expectations, indicating strong brand loyalty and positive financial performance [8]

Core Insights - Kirby Corporation (KEX) reported Q3 2025 earnings of $1.65 per share, exceeding the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.60, and reflecting a 6.5% year-over-year increase. Total revenues reached $871.2 million, which fell short of the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $888.3 million but showed a 4.8% year-over-year improvement [1][11]. Q3 Segmental Performance - Marine transportation revenues for Q3 2025 were $484.9 million, a slight decline of 0.2% year over year. Operating income decreased to $88.6 million from $99.5 million in the previous year, with segment operating margin dropping to 18.3% from 20.5% [3][4]. - In the inland market, average barge utilization was in the mid-80% range, with average spot market rates declining in the low-to-mid single digits. The inland market contributed 80% of segment revenues, and its operating margin was in the high teens [4]. - Coastal market conditions remained strong, with barge utilization in the mid to high-90% range. Coastal revenues grew by 13% year over year due to increased pricing, accounting for 20% of marine transportation segment revenues, with an operating margin around 20% [5]. - Distribution and services revenues increased by 11.9% year over year to $386.2 million, with operating income rising to $42.7 million and operating margin improving to 11% from 8.8% [6]. - Power generation revenues surged by 56%, and operating income rose by 96% year over year, driven by strong execution on backlog, accounting for nearly 45% of segment revenues [7]. - In the commercial and industrial market, revenues grew by 4%, and operating income increased by 12% year over year, supported by steady marine repair work [8]. - Oil and gas market revenues declined by 38% year over year due to reduced conventional oilfield activity, although operating income increased by 5% [9]. Balance Sheet Highlights & Cash Flow - As of September 30, 2025, Kirby had cash and cash equivalents of $47.02 million, down from $68.38 million at the end of the previous quarter [10]. - The company generated $227.5 million in net cash from operating activities during the quarter, with capital expenditures of $67.2 million. Kirby repurchased 1,314,009 shares for $120 million in Q3 and an additional 428,955 shares for $36 million in Q4 [11][12]. 2025 Outlook - For inland marine, market conditions are expected to remain stable with signs of improvement. Inland revenues and margins are anticipated to improve modestly in Q4, assuming tighter barge availability [13]. - Coastal marine fundamentals are favorable, with steady demand and barge utilization expected to remain high. Coastal revenues and operating margins are projected to be comparable to Q3 levels [14]. - In distribution and services, strength is expected in growing markets, particularly in power generation and commercial and industrial sectors. Full-year revenues are anticipated to increase in the mid-single digits, with operating margins in the high-single digits [15]. - Net cash flow from operating activities is projected to be between $620 million and $720 million, with capital expenditures expected to be between $260 million and $290 million [16].

Core Insights - Kirby Corporation's shares increased by 15.6% on Wednesday, reflecting positive market sentiment [1] - The company operates in two main segments: traditional tank barge transportation and a growing power equipment distribution and servicing business, with the latter benefiting from AI-related growth [2] Financial Performance - In Q3, Kirby's revenue rose by 4.8% to $871.2 million, and earnings per share increased by 6.5% to $1.65, both surpassing analyst expectations [3] - The core tank barge business showed stability but experienced a slight decline in marine transportation revenue, while the distribution and services segment thrived with an 11.9% revenue increase, driven by a 56% growth in the power generation market [4] Shareholder Returns - The company actively repurchased shares, buying back 1.31 million shares for $120 million in the quarter, with an additional $36 million in repurchases already initiated for Q4 [5] Valuation and Market Position - Despite the recent stock surge, Kirby trades at a relatively low valuation of 16.4 times this year's earnings estimates, with a significant portion of its business in the cyclical transportation sector and about 20% in the high-growth power generation segment [7] - The power generation segment's growth, particularly related to AI data centers, positions Kirby as an attractive investment opportunity for value investors compared to higher-valued tech stocks [8]

Kirby beat Q3 expectations as cash flow surged and disciplined capital spending supported a 15% stock jump. ...

Financial Performance - Net earnings for Q3 2025 were $92.5 million, or $1.65 per share, a 6% increase from $90.0 million, or $1.55 per share in Q3 2024[2] - Consolidated revenues for Q3 2025 reached $871.2 million, up from $831.1 million in Q3 2024, reflecting a year-over-year growth of approximately 4.5%[2] - Operating income for Q3 2025 was $129,219,000, compared to $126,930,000 in Q3 2024, reflecting a stable operating performance[24] - Net earnings attributable to Kirby for Q3 2025 were $92,496,000, up from $89,968,000 in Q3 2024, resulting in a diluted earnings per share of $1.65[24][26] - EBITDA for Q3 2025 was $201.4 million, compared to $190.5 million in Q3 2024, indicating a year-over-year increase of approximately 6%[13] - EBITDA for Q3 2025 was $201,407,000, an increase from $190,469,000 in Q3 2024, indicating improved operational efficiency[26] - Free cash flow for Q3 2025 was $160.3 million, compared to $130.1 million in Q3 2024, highlighting enhanced cash generation capabilities[34] Revenue Breakdown - Distribution and services revenues for Q3 2025 were $386.2 million, a 12% increase from $345.1 million in Q3 2024, with operating margins improving to 11%[9] - Marine transportation revenues were $484,941,000, slightly down from $486,054,000 in Q3 2024, while distribution and services revenues increased by 12% to $386,220,000 from $345,095,000[28][30] - Power generation revenues surged 56% year-over-year, contributing to a 96% increase in operating income, driven by strong demand from data centers and industrial customers[10] - Coastal marine revenues increased by 13% year-over-year, with barge utilization in the mid to high-90% range and operating margins around 20%[8] Operational Metrics - Inland marine barge utilization averaged in the mid-80% range during Q3 2025, with expectations for improvement into the 85-90% range in Q4 2025[4] - The company operated an average of 270 towboats in Q3 2025, down from 287 in Q3 2024, indicating a potential optimization in fleet management[36] Capital and Cash Flow - The company expects to generate net cash from operating activities of $620 million to $720 million in 2025, with capital spending projected between $260 million to $290 million[17] - Capital expenditures in Q3 2025 totaled $67,280,000, down from $76,383,000 in Q3 2024, reflecting a more disciplined investment approach[26] - Kirby repurchased 1,314,009 shares at an average price of $91.30 for a total of $120.0 million in Q3 2025[4] Cost and Leverage - Average cost per gallon of fuel consumed decreased to $2.46 in Q3 2025 from $2.65 in Q3 2024, contributing to cost savings[36] - The debt to capitalization ratio increased to 23.8% in Q3 2025 from 20.7% in Q4 2024, indicating a rise in leverage[26] Future Outlook - Kirby anticipates full-year revenues in distribution and services to increase in the mid-single digits, with operating margins in the high-single digits[16]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported third quarter earnings per share of $1.65, a 6% increase year over year [5] - Total marine revenues decreased by $1.2 million compared to Q3 2024, with operating income down by 11% sequentially [12] - Operating margins for the inland marine transportation business were in the high teens for the fourth quarter, while coastal marine operating margins were around 20% [10][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the inland marine transportation business, barge utilization averaged in the mid-80% range, down from previous quarters, with revenues declining 3% year over year [7][14] - Coastal revenues increased 13% year over year, supported by improved pricing and fewer planned shipyard activities [15] - Power generation revenues surged 56% year over year, driven by strong demand from data centers and industrial customers [9][17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The inland market faced near-term softness due to favorable weather and lower demand, while coastal marine fundamentals remained strong with utilization in the mid to high 90% range [6][8] - Spot market rates for inland transportation declined in the low to mid-single digits both sequentially and year over year [7][14] - The company expects barge utilization to improve entering the fourth quarter, now running in the high 80% range [25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to navigate near-term challenges while focusing on long-term growth, particularly in power generation and maintaining strong operational execution [5][24] - The management emphasizes a balanced capital allocation approach, planning to return capital to shareholders while pursuing strategic investments [22][23] - The company is committed to enhancing its service offerings in power generation, leveraging its capabilities in EFRAC technologies [72] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the inland barge cycle, anticipating years of growth despite current market challenges [24] - The company noted early signs of improvement in market conditions for the fourth quarter, with expectations for higher barge utilization and improved pricing [25][26] - Management remains cautious about potential softness in demand for refined products and chemicals but sees positive momentum in the inland market [25][26] Other Important Information - The company had $47 million in cash and total debt of around $1.05 billion as of September 30, 2025, with a debt to capital ratio of 23.8% [19] - Free cash flow improved to $160 million for the quarter, with expectations to unwind working capital in the fourth quarter [20][22] - The company plans capital expenditures between $260 and $290 million for the year, focusing on maintenance and growth capital [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on Power Generation Growth - Management acknowledged that while there will be some lumpiness in revenue, the backlog is at a record level, indicating robust demand [34][35] Question: Update on Inland Market Conditions - Management noted that the inland market faced challenges in Q3 but is seeing improvements in Q4, with barge utilization currently at 87.6% [36][40] Question: Spot Market Rates Trends - Management indicated that spot pricing has started to firm up, with expectations for a constructive pricing environment moving forward [46][48] Question: Guidance on Earnings - Management confirmed that they expect to be around the low end of their earnings guidance due to ongoing market conditions [51][52] Question: Fleet and Contract Renewals - Management stated that approximately 40% of the term contract portfolio renews in Q4, which is critical for revenue stability [88] Question: Strategic Opportunities in Inland Market - Management acknowledged that some operators may be reevaluating their positions, creating potential acquisition opportunities [96][97] Question: Coastal Market Sensitivity - Management clarified that the coastal market is less sensitive to crude slate changes compared to inland, with a stable supply-demand balance [98][99]