Market Overview - All three major U.S. stock market indices fell by more than 1% on June 13 due to missile strikes between Israel and Iran, impacting global stock markets negatively [1] - Investors are concerned that these geopolitical tensions could lead to increased oil prices and upward pressure on global commodity prices [1] Investment Recommendations - Suggested low-leverage stocks for safeguarding portfolios during market turmoil include Novartis (NVS), The Ensign Group (ENSG), MasTec (MTZ), Bilibili (BILI), and Sterling Infrastructure, Inc. (STRL) [2][10] - These stocks are characterized by low leverage, making them potentially safer options for investors [2][10] Understanding Leverage - Leverage refers to the practice of borrowing capital for operations and expansion, typically through debt financing [4] - Excessive debt financing can lead to significant losses, hence the importance of selecting companies with low debt levels [5][6] Debt-to-Equity Ratio Analysis - The debt-to-equity ratio is a key metric indicating a company's financial risk, with a lower ratio reflecting better solvency [7] - High debt-to-equity ratios can turn favorable earnings into losses during economic downturns [8] Stock Selection Strategy - A prudent investment strategy involves choosing stocks with low debt-to-equity ratios to ensure steady returns [9] - Additional screening criteria include being less leveraged than industry peers, trading at a minimum price of $10, having substantial trading volume, and showing positive earnings growth expectations [12][13] Company Highlights - **Novartis (NVS)**: Reported a 7.1% improvement in 2025 sales estimates and has a long-term earnings growth rate of 7.9%, currently holding a Zacks Rank 2 [15][16] - **The Ensign Group (ENSG)**: Anticipates a 15% year-over-year sales improvement in 2025, with a long-term earnings growth rate of 15% and a Zacks Rank 2 [17][18] - **MasTec (MTZ)**: Achieved a 6% year-over-year revenue increase and expects an 11% sales improvement in 2025, with a significant earnings growth estimate of 53.7% [19] - **Bilibili (BILI)**: Experienced a 24% revenue increase year-over-year and anticipates an 11.3% sales improvement in 2025, with a Zacks Rank 2 [20] - **Sterling Infrastructure (STRL)**: Reported a 7% revenue increase and a 29% surge in adjusted earnings per share, with a long-term earnings growth rate of 15% [21][22]

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of identifying and sustaining trends in short-term investing, highlighting that sound fundamentals and positive earnings estimates are crucial for maintaining momentum in stock prices [1][2]. Group 1: Stock Performance - Sterling Infrastructure (STRL) has shown a significant price increase of 60.3% over the past 12 weeks, indicating strong investor interest and potential upside [3]. - The stock has also experienced a price increase of 7.7% over the last four weeks, suggesting that the upward trend is still intact [4]. - STRL is currently trading at 95% of its 52-week high-low range, indicating a potential breakout opportunity [4]. Group 2: Fundamental Strength - STRL holds a Zacks Rank 2 (Buy), placing it in the top 20% of over 4,000 ranked stocks based on earnings estimate revisions and EPS surprises, which are key indicators of near-term price movements [5]. - The stock has an Average Broker Recommendation of 1 (Strong Buy), reflecting high optimism from the brokerage community regarding its near-term performance [6]. Group 3: Investment Strategy - The article suggests that investors can utilize the "Recent Price Strength" screen to identify stocks like STRL that are on an upward trend supported by strong fundamentals [2][7]. - It also mentions that there are over 45 Zacks Premium Screens available for investors to find stocks that align with their investment strategies [7].

Core Viewpoint - Sterling Infrastructure, Inc. has appointed Nicholas Grindstaff as the new Chief Financial Officer, effective July 10, 2025, succeeding Ron Ballschmiede [1][4] Group 1: Leadership Appointment - Nicholas Grindstaff brings over 30 years of finance and leadership experience, particularly in the infrastructure and energy sectors [2] - Grindstaff's recent role was as CFO of Cinterra, a solar and renewable energy contractor, and he previously served as CFO of Orbital Infrastructure Group [2][3] - His extensive background includes over two decades at Quanta Services, where he held senior financial positions [3] Group 2: Company Overview - Sterling operates through subsidiaries in three segments: E-Infrastructure, Transportation, and Building Solutions, primarily in the Southern, Northeastern, Mid-Atlantic, Rocky Mountain regions, and the Pacific Islands [4] - E-Infrastructure Solutions focuses on large-scale site development for various sectors, including manufacturing and data centers [4] - Transportation Solutions encompasses infrastructure projects for highways, bridges, airports, and more [4] - Building Solutions includes concrete foundations for residential and commercial projects, plumbing services, and surveys for new builds [4] - The company emphasizes sustainability and responsible operations to enhance quality of life for communities and stakeholders [4][5]

Company Overview - Sterling Infrastructure, Inc. (STRL) has established a strong position in the data-center construction sector, benefiting from the increasing demand for E-Infrastructure projects [1] - The company is recognized for its ability to manage complex, mission-critical projects and deliver high-quality outcomes, making it a trusted partner for data-center developers [1] Financial Performance - As of the end of the first quarter, STRL's total backlog reached $2.1 billion, with a gross margin of 17.7%, an increase of 100 basis points from 16.7% at the end of 2024 [2] - The E-Infrastructure Solutions segment accounted for $1.2 billion, approximately 57% of the total backlog, indicating a focus on high-margin opportunities [2] - In Q1 2025, revenues from the E-Infrastructure segment rose 18% year over year, with data center-related activity expanding by roughly 60% compared to the previous year [3] - Data-center projects now represent over 65% of the E-Infrastructure segment's backlog, enhancing future revenue visibility [3] - Adjusted operating margins for the E-Infrastructure segment increased by 618 basis points year over year to 23% [3] Market Outlook - The company anticipates continued strong demand for data centers as customers plan multiyear capital deployments and seek partnerships for project support [4] Competitor Landscape - Other industry players such as Jacobs Solutions Inc. and Dycom Industries, Inc. are also positioned to benefit from the growing demand for data-center infrastructure [5] - Jacobs is enhancing its presence in the data-center market with double-digit revenue growth and recent partnerships, including one with NVIDIA [6] - Dycom is expanding its work with hyperscalers, driven by increasing fiber demand linked to data centers and the growth of AI infrastructure [7] Stock Performance and Valuation - STRL's stock has increased by 12.4% over the past month, outperforming the Zacks Engineering - R and D Services industry's rise of 6.8% [8] - The company is currently trading at a price-to-earnings ratio of 23.21X, which is above the industry's average of 20.43X [11] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for STRL's earnings in 2025 and 2026 indicates year-over-year increases of 38.5% and 11.6%, respectively [13]

Core Insights - Sterling Infrastructure, Inc. (STRL) has experienced a significant stock price increase of 65.4% over the past three months, outperforming the Zacks Engineering - R and D Services industry growth of 24.8%, the broader Construction sector's increase of 4.2%, and the S&P 500 Index's rise of 3.1% [1][2][3] E-Infrastructure Segment Performance - The E-Infrastructure segment is the largest and most profitable business line for the company, contributing 44% of total revenues in 2024, with an 18% revenue increase in Q1 driven by strong data center demand and project backlog [8][6] - Demand in the data center market surged approximately 60%, with mission-critical work representing over 65% of the segment's backlog, indicating sustained demand visibility [8][6] Backlog and Future Growth - The company's backlog reached $2.1 billion, reflecting a 17% year-over-year increase, supported by a 27% rise in the E-Infrastructure Solutions backlog to $1.2 billion [10][11] - The strong backlog is expected to support steady earnings growth, with nearly $2 billion in E-Infrastructure projects anticipated from both signed backlog and future phase work [11] Inorganic Growth Strategy - The company is pursuing growth through acquisitions, including the recent acquisition of Drake Concrete for $25 million, expected to add $55 million in revenues and $6.5 million in EBITDA in 2025 [12][13] - The acquisition aims to enhance the company's geographic reach and customer base, with a focus on further acquisitions in the e-infrastructure and Building Solutions segments [15] Transportation Segment Outlook - The Transportation segment is expected to show stable progress, supported by a strong backlog and steady bid activity, with revenue growth anticipated in the mid-single digits for 2025 [16][17] Earnings Estimates and Valuation - Earnings estimates for 2025 have been revised upward to $8.45 from $8.21, indicating a growth of 38.5% year-over-year, while peers like AECOM, Fluor, and KBR are expected to see lower growth rates [19] - The company is currently trading at a premium relative to its industry and historical metrics, with a forward 12-month price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio above the five-year average [20][22]

Group 1 - Sterling Infrastructure, Inc. (STRL) has reached an important support level and is considered a good stock pick from a technical perspective due to a recent "golden cross" event [1] - A golden cross occurs when a stock's short-term moving average, typically the 50-day, crosses above its long-term moving average, usually the 200-day, indicating a potential bullish breakout [2] - The golden cross pattern consists of three stages: a downtrend followed by a crossover of moving averages, and finally an upward price movement [3] Group 2 - STRL has moved 13.8% higher over the last four weeks, indicating potential for further gains [4] - The company currently holds a 2 (Buy) rating on the Zacks Rank, supported by a positive earnings outlook with one upward revision in earnings estimates over the past 60 days [4] - The combination of earnings estimate revisions and the technical breakout suggests that investors should monitor STRL for potential gains in the near future [6]

Summary of Sterling Infrastructure (STRL) FY Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: Sterling Infrastructure (STRL) - **Market Cap**: Approximately $6 billion - **Revenue**: About $2 billion - **EBITDA Margin**: Over 15% - **Annual Cash Flow**: Over $300 million [5][29][39] Key Points and Arguments Business Strategy - **Three Fundamental Elements**: 1. **Solidify the Base**: Focus on driving up margins, improving productivity, and reducing contract execution risks [5][6]. 2. **Focus on High Margin Products**: Prioritize high-margin services and expand customer base [6][8]. 3. **Market Expansion**: Introduce high-margin goods and services to adjacent markets [6][8]. - **Transformation Journey**: The company underwent a turnaround starting in 2015, achieving an 18% compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) in revenue and a 38% CAGR in profitability [8][9]. - **Backlog**: The company has a record backlog of over $2 billion, with an additional $750 million in future phase work, indicating strong future revenue potential [9][10]. Business Segments 1. **E Infrastructure Solutions**: - Accounts for approximately 45% of total revenue. - Focuses on site development for mission-critical projects like data centers and large manufacturing facilities. - Achieved a compounded growth rate of 23% and an operating income margin of 28% [10][11]. 2. **Transportation Solutions**: - Represents about 30-35% of revenue. - Transitioned from low-bid heavy highway work to higher-margin aviation and rail projects, resulting in a 43% increase in margins [21][26]. 3. **Building Solutions**: - The smallest segment, primarily serving residential builders. - Currently facing challenges due to a downturn in the housing market but is positioned in growth markets like Dallas and Houston [27][29]. Financial Performance - **First Quarter Results**: Adjusted EBITDA over $80 million and cash flow from operations around $85 million, with expectations to maintain cash flow between $300 million to $400 million for the year [39][40]. - **Acquisitions**: Acquired approximately $30 million worth of small businesses, focusing on strategic growth in e infrastructure and building solutions [36][37]. - **Debt Position**: The company has net negative debt, with $664 million in cash and $300 million in debt [39][40]. Market Outlook - **Positive Growth Expectations**: The company is bullish on infrastructure spending, technology investments, and onshoring trends over the next five years [48][49]. - **Focus on Margins**: Emphasis on maintaining high margins and cash flow, with a culture of continuous improvement and adaptation to market changes [50][51]. Additional Insights - **Operational Efficiency**: Utilizes advanced technology, including drones for project management, to enhance productivity and ensure timely project delivery [19][20]. - **Customer-Centric Approach**: Engages with customers to understand their needs and adapt services accordingly, which has led to successful expansions in service offerings [30][33]. Conclusion Sterling Infrastructure is positioned for continued growth with a strong focus on high-margin projects, operational efficiency, and strategic acquisitions. The company’s robust backlog and positive market outlook suggest a promising future in the infrastructure sector.

Market Overview - The U.S. stock market displayed mixed signals on May 29, with the Nasdaq and S&P 500 gaining due to NVIDIA's strong quarterly results and a favorable ruling against Trump-imposed tariffs, while the Dow Jones declined amid economic outlook concerns and geopolitical uncertainties [1] Investment Strategy - In a volatile market, investors are advised to consider low-leverage stocks such as Novartis, ENGIE SA, MasTec, Dorman Products, and Sterling Infrastructure to mitigate potential losses [2] - Low-leverage stocks are preferred as they typically bear less financial risk, making them safer options during market turmoil [6][5] Understanding Leverage - Leverage refers to the practice of companies borrowing capital to operate and expand, primarily through debt financing, which can be risky if it does not yield returns exceeding the interest rate [4][5] - A lower debt-to-equity ratio indicates improved solvency and reduced financial risk for a company [7] Stock Selection Criteria - Stocks should have a debt-to-equity ratio lower than the industry median, a current price of at least $10, an average 20-day trading volume of 50,000 or more, and a percentage change in EPS greater than the industry median [11][12] - Additional criteria include a VGM Score of A or B, estimated one-year EPS growth greater than 5%, and a Zacks Rank of 1 or 2 [12] Company Highlights - **Novartis**: Launched a tender offer to acquire Regulus Therapeutics for $7.00 per share, potentially enhancing its RNA-targeted therapies pipeline. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 sales suggests a 7.1% improvement from 2024, with a long-term earnings growth rate of 7.9% [14][15] - **ENGIE SA**: Reported a 5.6% year-over-year revenue growth in Q1 2025 and has 8.5 GW of renewable and battery capacity under construction. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 earnings indicates a 22.9% year-over-year improvement [16][17] - **MasTec**: Announced a 6% year-over-year revenue increase in Q1 2025, with a Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 sales showing an 11% improvement and earnings expected to rise by 54.9% [17][18] - **Dorman Products**: Released hundreds of new automotive repair solutions, expanding its catalog and creating over 12 million new sales opportunities. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 sales indicates a 4.9% improvement [19][20] - **Sterling Infrastructure**: Reported a 7% year-over-year revenue increase in Q1 2025, with adjusted earnings per share surging by 29%. The company has a long-term earnings growth rate of 15% [21]

Company Performance - Sterling Infrastructure (STRL) has returned 10.5% year-to-date, outperforming the average loss of 4.1% in the Construction sector [4] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for STRL's full-year earnings has increased by 5.8% over the past quarter, indicating improving analyst sentiment [3] - STRL currently holds a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy), suggesting a favorable outlook for the stock [3] Industry Comparison - Sterling Infrastructure is part of the Engineering - R and D Services industry, which has seen an average loss of 1.9% year-to-date, further highlighting STRL's strong performance [5] - In contrast, Tutor Perini (TPC), another Construction stock, has returned 53.6% year-to-date and holds a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy) [4][5] - The Building Products - Heavy Construction industry, to which Tutor Perini belongs, is currently ranked 2 and has moved up by 2.8% year-to-date [6]

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of timing and sustainability in stock trends for successful short-term investing, highlighting the need for strong fundamentals to maintain momentum [1][2]. Group 1: Stock Performance - Sterling Infrastructure (STRL) has shown a solid price increase of 54.2% over the past 12 weeks, indicating strong investor interest [4]. - The stock has also increased by 16.4% in the last four weeks, suggesting that the upward trend is still intact [5]. - STRL is currently trading at 82.3% of its 52-week high-low range, indicating a potential breakout [5]. Group 2: Fundamental Strength - STRL holds a Zacks Rank 2 (Buy), placing it in the top 20% of over 4,000 ranked stocks based on earnings estimate revisions and EPS surprises [6]. - The stock has an Average Broker Recommendation of 1 (Strong Buy), reflecting high optimism from the brokerage community regarding its near-term performance [7]. - The Zacks Rank system has a strong historical performance, with Zacks Rank 1 stocks averaging a +25% annual return since 1988 [7]. Group 3: Investment Strategy - The "Recent Price Strength" screen is a useful tool for identifying stocks like STRL that are on an uptrend supported by strong fundamentals [3]. - There are additional stocks that meet the criteria of the "Recent Price Strength" screen, providing further investment opportunities [8]. - The Zacks Research Wizard can assist in backtesting stock-picking strategies to ensure past profitability [9].