Cameco (NYSE:CCJ) Conference February 23, 2026 03:00 PM ET Company ParticipantsGrant Isaac - President and COOConference Call ParticipantsAlex Pearce - Equity Research Analyst of Metals and MiningGrant IsaacBe here. I thought I would open with a few comments. The reason I'm gonna do this is something funny happened in our Q4 quarterly call. For the first time in 16 years, nobody asked about the spot market or the term market of uranium. Didn't happen. You didn't ask, nobody asked. I don't wanna lose the opp ...

Core Insights - The article discusses Gregory Beard's leadership of the Office of Energy Dominance Financing (EDF), emphasizing its role as the largest energy lender globally with a loan authority of approximately $289 billion [2][3] - Beard aims to reshape the EDF by focusing on affordability, reliability, and a diversified energy portfolio, moving away from the previous administration's green energy emphasis [8][9] Group 1: Leadership and Objectives - Gregory Beard transitioned from the private sector to lead the EDF, motivated by a strong belief in the agency's mission under Secretary Chris Wright [3] - Beard's immediate focus includes a comprehensive review of loans approved during the Biden administration, impacting over 80% of the portfolio, valued at around $83.6 billion [4][5] - The EDF plans to dispense capital at a record rate, with a focus on projects that align with the Trump administration's energy goals [5][8] Group 2: Loan Portfolio and Strategy - The review process led to the cancellation or withdrawal of approximately $30 billion in conditional loan commitments and the restructuring of about $53 billion in loans [5] - The EDF is now concentrating on six key areas: nuclear, fossil fuels, critical materials, geothermal, grid and transmission, and manufacturing and transportation [8][9] - Beard indicated that the agency is "open for business" and has about 80 active loan applications, with expectations for a significant upcoming loan announcement [10][11] Group 3: Energy Market Dynamics - Rising electricity prices are becoming a critical issue for consumers, outpacing overall inflation [12] - The demand for power is increasing due to factors such as the energy needs of artificial intelligence and the reshoring of manufacturing [13] - Reliability concerns are highlighted, particularly regarding the power grid's ability to meet demand amid climate change-related challenges [14] Group 4: Nuclear Energy Focus - The EDF has historically supported nuclear projects and aims to prioritize this sector, with plans to quadruple U.S. nuclear capacity by 2050 [20] - The agency is willing to finance up to 80% of project costs, indicating a strong commitment to nuclear energy as a stable power source [21] - Recent loans include a $1 billion commitment to restart the Three Mile Island reactor and significant funding for other nuclear projects [22] Group 5: Critical Minerals Strategy - A key focus for the EDF is to reduce dependence on foreign critical minerals, particularly from China, which has previously restricted exports [23][24] - The EDF plans to support domestic projects that can disrupt China's dominance in metal supply chains essential for various industries [24][25] - Beard emphasizes the importance of replicable projects that benefit Americans and ensure repayment, streamlining the agency's operations [25]

Industry Overview - Nuclear power is experiencing a resurgence globally, driven by increasing power demands from artificial intelligence and a shift towards green energy, prompting significant investments in nuclear capacity [1] - The demand for uranium has surged, with its spot price increasing by 32% over the past year, contrasting with declines in other energy resources [2] Company Profile - Cameco is the second largest uranium producer globally, responsible for 15% of the world's uranium production in 2025, and operates high-grade uranium mines such as Cigar Lake and MacArthur River/Key Lake [4] - The company also has a 49% stake in Westinghouse, which produces advanced nuclear reactors and is developing a small modular reactor [5] Strategic Positioning - Cameco is well-positioned to support the U.S. Department of Energy's goal to triple nuclear energy generation by 2050, benefiting from favorable tax rates on Canadian uranium [6] - The U.S. has entered an $80 billion deal with Cameco and Brookfield Asset Management for the purchase of new AP 1000 reactors [6] Global Expansion - Several countries, including China, Poland, Bulgaria, Ukraine, and India, are investing in AP 1000 reactors, indicating a strong international demand for nuclear technology [7] Financial Performance - In the most recent quarter, Cameco exceeded earnings expectations by 13.6%, recovering from a previous miss [8] - Revenues for 2025 increased by 11% to $3.48 billion, with diluted earnings per share rising by 246% to $1.35, and cash reserves growing to $1.2 billion against total debt of $1 billion [9] - The company raised its dividend by 50% compared to 2024, although the yield remains low at 0.15% [9]

Summary of Mirion Technologies Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: Mirion Technologies (NYSE: MIR) - **Industry**: Nuclear Power and Radiation Therapy Key Points Industry and Market Dynamics - **Nuclear Power Segment Growth**: Approximately 47% of Mirion's revenue is derived from the commercial nuclear power industry, with a presence in over 95% of the global operating base [2][3] - **Global Electrical Generating Capacity Shortage**: The company views the current shortage as a generational tailwind for growth in the nuclear sector [3] - **AI Implications**: The integration of AI is expected to significantly impact operational efficiency and productivity within the company and the industry [3] Financial Performance and Guidance - **2026 Guidance**: The company anticipates accelerating organic growth across both segments, despite some crosscurrents such as government funding uncertainties and slower spending in nuclear labs [5][6] - **Record Orders and Backlog**: Mirion ended the previous year with record orders and backlog, indicating strong demand [6][7] - **Radiation Therapy Business Challenges**: The company faced challenges in its radiation therapy segment due to market softness in China and transitional issues in Japan, but remains optimistic about long-term growth [10][12] Growth Drivers - **Installed Base Growth**: The organic growth in the nuclear business was 11% last year, with expectations for continued double-digit growth driven by life extension and modernization of nuclear plants [45][49] - **Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)**: Orders for SMRs increased significantly, indicating a growing market, with $37 million in orders last year and expectations for further growth [52][67] - **Acquisition of Paragon Energy Solutions**: This acquisition is expected to enhance Mirion's capabilities in the nuclear sector, with Paragon projected to grow at 25% this year [78][79] Margin and Cost Management - **Margin Expansion**: The nuclear and safety segment saw a 40 basis point increase in margins to 29.4%, driven by procurement optimization and operational efficiencies [81][84] - **Long-term Margin Target**: The company aims for 30% EBITDA margins by 2028, with a focus on absorption and optimization strategies [84][87] AI and Technological Integration - **AI Initiatives**: Mirion launched 17 internal AI applications last year, with plans for further development, aiming to enhance productivity and operational efficiency [104][106] - **Software Exposure**: The company's software exposure is modest, between 5% and 7%, but is expected to grow as AI applications are integrated into operations [110][111] Future Outlook - **Nuclear Medicine Growth**: The nuclear medicine segment is expected to grow, driven by advancements in theranostics and radiopharmaceutical therapies [133][135] - **Emerging Trends**: Key trends include the increasing demand for electrical generating capacity and the transformative impact of AI on the industry [158][159] M&A Strategy - **M&A Pipeline**: Mirion plans to focus on smaller acquisitions to enhance its nuclear exposure while managing leverage, currently at 3.2 times EBITDA [148][150] Conclusion - Mirion Technologies is well-positioned to capitalize on growth opportunities in the nuclear power and radiation therapy sectors, with a strong focus on AI integration, margin expansion, and strategic acquisitions to drive future growth [159][160]

Summary of Emerson Electric Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: Emerson Electric (NYSE: EMR) - **Date**: February 18, 2026 - **Key Speakers**: Lal Karsanbhai (President and CEO), Mike Baughman (CFO) Key Points Industry and Market Dynamics - Emerson's software business is valued at **$1.6 billion ACV** with a target of **10% growth** in ACV for the year, driven by strong demand in mission-critical applications across regulated industries such as power generation, pharmaceuticals, and energy [1][14] - The company emphasizes the importance of integrating AI into existing software, with products like **Ovation Virtual Advisor** and **Aspen Virtual Advisor** already generating over **$100 million in quotations** [14][21] - The software business is protected by three key moats: 1. **Deterministic and domain expertise** in vertical applications [5][6] 2. Focus on **mission-critical applications** in regulated industries [9] 3. Economic moat through **perpetual licenses** and usage-based tokens [11][12] Financial Performance - Emerson reported a **9% ACV growth** in the last quarter and expects similar growth in the current quarter, despite a **2-point headwind** from a previous job [14] - The company has seen **74% order growth** in the Ovation product line, primarily driven by modernization projects in the U.S. [50][62] - The overall order rate is stable, with a trailing twelve-month rate of **6%**, supported by a strong installed base of **$155 billion** [80][87] Regional Insights - The U.S. market is experiencing strong growth, particularly in sectors like **semiconductors, aerospace and defense, energy, life sciences, and power** [46][48] - Emerson has aligned its strategy to focus on these growth factors, benefiting from favorable U.S. industrial policies [48][49] - The company anticipates continued growth in the Middle East and India, offsetting weaknesses in China and Europe [135][137] Future Outlook - Emerson is committed to returning **$10 billion** in cash to shareholders, with plans for **$6 billion in share repurchases** and **$4 billion in dividends** [172] - The company is focused on enhancing its R&D investment, which has increased from **4% to 8%**, aiming for **double-digit growth** in technology innovation [184] - Emerson is preparing for potential growth in the nuclear sector and is actively pursuing opportunities in emerging markets like India and the Middle East [76][137] Challenges and Considerations - The company has assumed a **weak recovery** in China and Europe in its forecasts, which could impact overall growth if conditions improve unexpectedly [37][38] - There are ongoing challenges in the automotive sector, particularly in the electrical batteries and ADAS markets, which remain weak [106][108] - Emerson is monitoring supply chain dynamics, particularly regarding DRAM availability and tariffs, which could affect costs but are not expected to materially impact overall financial performance [152][154] Conclusion - Emerson Electric is strategically positioned for growth through its focus on software integration, strong market presence in critical industries, and commitment to shareholder returns. The company is navigating challenges in certain markets while capitalizing on opportunities in the U.S. and emerging markets.

Core Viewpoint - Brookfield Renewable Partners is positioned as a strong investment due to its attractive dividend yield, consistent cash flow growth, and strategic partnerships in the renewable energy sector. Group 1: Financial Performance - Brookfield Renewable Partners has a current share price of approximately $31.77, with a market capitalization of $9.7 billion and a dividend yield of 4.70% [2] - In 2025, the company reported $1.3 billion in funds from operations (FFO), reflecting a 13.8% increase, with FFO per share rising by 10.8% to $0.52 [8] - The company has increased its dividend payouts for five consecutive years, including a 5% boost this year to $0.392, resulting in a total increase of 27% [10] Group 2: Market Position and Growth Potential - Brookfield Renewable is well-positioned to benefit from the growing demand for electricity, which is expected to increase by 35% to 50% by 2040 due to economic growth and the expansion of data centers and manufacturing [3] - The company has long-term power purchasing agreements averaging 13 years, with 90% of its electricity sales secured through these contracts [11] - Brookfield Renewable has geographic diversity, operating in North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia, which enhances its market resilience [8] Group 3: Strategic Partnerships - The company has established partnerships with major corporations like Microsoft and Alphabet, which are significant drivers of electricity demand in the U.S. [4] - Brookfield Renewable's focus on renewable energy sources positions it favorably amid global shifts towards sustainable energy solutions [4] Group 4: Comparison with Brookfield Renewable Corporation - Brookfield Renewable Partners and Brookfield Renewable Corporation are essentially the same entity, sharing assets and dividend payments, but differ in tax reporting requirements for investors [5] - Brookfield Renewable Corporation generally has a lower dividend yield of 3.40% due to higher demand and exclusion from certain investment portfolios [7]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported annual revenue of approximately CAD 3.5 billion in 2025, an increase of 11% compared to 2024 [14] - Adjusted EBITDA was about CAD 1.9 billion, reflecting a 26% increase from the previous year [14] - Adjusted net earnings reached just under CAD 630 million, representing a 115% improvement compared to 2024 [14] - The balance sheet remains strong, ending the year with approximately CAD 1.2 billion in cash and short-term investments, and CAD 1 billion in total debt [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the uranium segment, the company produced 21 million pounds on a consolidated basis in 2025, exceeding revised annual guidance [15] - The fuel services segment delivered strong performance, including record UF6 production at Port Hope [16] - The company has commitments to deliver an average of about 28 million pounds of uranium annually over the next five years [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Long-term contracting volumes in 2025 remained below replacement rate levels, indicating a need for continued discipline in supply [12] - Average realized prices improved, reflecting a strengthening long-term market environment [14] - The company ended the year with approximately 230 million pounds committed under long-term contracts [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to maintain a disciplined approach to production and supply, focusing on long-term strategies despite market volatility [8][11] - Investments in next-generation enrichment and partnerships, such as with Westinghouse, are expected to enhance the company's position in the nuclear fuel cycle [10][18] - The company is strategically preserving uncommitted productive capacity to deploy as market fundamentals strengthen [14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted ongoing geopolitical turmoil and market volatility but emphasized resilience and disciplined execution as key themes for 2025 [8] - The outlook for growth across the nuclear fuel cycle is expected to continue, driven by electrification, decarbonization, and energy security priorities [19] - The company anticipates producing between 19.5 million and 21.5 million pounds of uranium in 2026, with an average realized price between CAD 85 and CAD 89 [21] Other Important Information - The company is actively negotiating contracts to unlock value while preserving significant uncommitted volumes for future pricing opportunities [12][13] - The investment in Westinghouse is expected to yield strong performance, with an outlook for adjusted EBITDA from Westinghouse of approximately CAD 370 million to CAD 430 million in 2026 [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Guidance framework for Westinghouse business - Management discussed the exciting opportunities in Westinghouse and the potential financial impact of projects, emphasizing a disciplined approach to guidance [28][32] Question: Average realized pricing outlook for uranium - Management explained the lack of immediate price appreciation is due to a disciplined marketing strategy, preserving pounds for when demand increases [34][36] Question: Production outlook at McArthur River - Management addressed delays at McArthur River and the decision to pace production according to market demand, emphasizing a systematic approach [50][52] Question: Technical risks around McArthur River - Management confirmed that risks are being managed proactively and that the current issues are not indicative of a riskier environment [62][64] Question: Future demand and production backfill - Management expressed confidence in the demand for uranium and the ability to prepare assets for future production needs [68][70] Question: Conversion market contracting - Management highlighted the importance of securing long-term contracts in the conversion market and the strategy to maximize value over time [78][80]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Annual revenue increased to approximately CAD 3.5 billion in 2025, up 11% compared to 2024 [14] - Adjusted EBITDA was about CAD 1.9 billion, which was up 26% from the previous year [14] - Adjusted net earnings of just under CAD 630 million represent a 115% improvement compared to 2024 [14] - The balance sheet remains strong, ending the year with approximately CAD 1.2 billion in cash and short-term investments, CAD 1 billion in total debt [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Uranium segment produced 21 million pounds on a consolidated basis in 2025, exceeding revised annual guidance [15] - Fuel services segment delivered strong performance, including record UF6 production at Port Hope [16] - JV Inkai met its annual production target, delivering 3.7 million pounds for 2025 [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Average realized prices improved, reflecting a strengthening long-term market environment [14] - Approximately 230 million pounds committed under long-term contracts by year-end [14] - Long-term contracting volumes in 2025 remained below replacement-rate levels, indicating a need for continued discipline [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company focuses on disciplined execution and long-term strategy, adapting to market volatility [8] - Continued investment in next-generation enrichment and partnerships, including a strategic partnership with Westinghouse and the U.S. government [10][18] - Plans to ramp up uranium production in 2026, with commitments to deliver an average of about 28 million pounds annually over the next five years [13][21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted ongoing geopolitical turmoil but emphasized resilience and adaptation within the industry [8] - The outlook for growth across the nuclear fuel cycle is driven by electrification, decarbonization, and energy security priorities [19] - The company expects to produce between 19.5 million and 21.5 million pounds of uranium in 2026, with an average realized price between CAD 85 and CAD 89 [21] Other Important Information - The company maintains significant uncommitted productive capacity to deploy as market fundamentals strengthen [14] - The investment in Westinghouse is expected to yield strong performance, with an outlook for adjusted EBITDA from Westinghouse of approximately $370 million-$430 million in 2026 [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Guidance framework for Westinghouse business - Management discussed the potential financial impact of projects and the excitement around the Gen III reactor opportunities, emphasizing discipline in guidance [28][30] Question: Average realized pricing outlook for 2026 - Management explained the lack of significant price appreciation is due to a disciplined marketing strategy, preserving pounds for when demand increases [34][36] Question: Production outlook at McArthur River - Management acknowledged delays and emphasized a systematic approach to development, aligning production with market demand [50][52] Question: Technical risks around McArthur River - Management clarified that risks are being managed proactively and are not indicative of a riskier environment, focusing on disciplined production strategy [62][64] Question: Potential stresses on production capacity - Management expressed confidence in meeting future demand and emphasized the importance of disciplined production planning [68][70] Question: Westinghouse EBITDA guidance - Management noted that the guidance reflects core business drivers and the timing of regulatory approvals impacting immediate orders [74][76] Question: Conversion market contracting - Management highlighted the importance of securing long-term contracts at historic prices and the strategic approach to maximizing asset value [78][80]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Annual revenue increased to approximately CAD 3.5 billion in 2025, up 11% compared to 2024 [12] - Adjusted EBITDA was about CAD 1.9 billion, which was up 26% from the previous year [12] - Adjusted net earnings of just under CAD 630 million represent a 115% improvement compared to 2024 [12] - The balance sheet remains strong, ending the year with approximately CAD 1.2 billion in cash and short-term investments, CAD 1 billion in total debt [13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Uranium segment produced 21 million pounds on a consolidated basis in 2025, exceeding revised annual guidance [13] - Fuel services segment delivered strong performance, including record UF6 production at Port Hope [14] - JV Inkai met its annual production target, delivering 3.7 million pounds for 2025 [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Long-term contracting volumes in 2025 remained below replacement rate levels, indicating a need for continued discipline [11] - Average realized prices continue to improve, reflecting a strengthening long-term market environment [12] - Approximately 230 million pounds committed under long-term contracts by year-end [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company focuses on disciplined execution and long-term strategy, looking past near-term volatility [7] - Continued investment in next-generation enrichment through Global Laser Enrichment and partnerships with Westinghouse to enhance nuclear fuel demand [9][16] - The strategic partnership with the U.S. government aims to accelerate the deployment of Westinghouse reactor technology, backed by at least $80 billion in planned investment [16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The management highlighted ongoing geopolitical turmoil and market volatility but emphasized resilience and disciplined execution [7] - Expectations for growth across the nuclear fuel cycle driven by electrification, decarbonization, and energy security priorities [17] - Anticipated production of between 19.5 million and 21.5 million pounds of uranium in 2026, with an average realized price between CAD 85 and CAD 89 [18] Other Important Information - The company maintains significant uncommitted productive capacity to deploy as market fundamentals strengthen [12] - The investment in Westinghouse is expected to continue delivering strong performance, with an outlook for adjusted EBITDA from Westinghouse of approximately $370 million-$430 million in 2026 [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Guidance framework for Westinghouse business - Management discussed the exciting opportunities in Westinghouse and the potential for multiple reactors in the U.S. and other countries, emphasizing disciplined guidance [26][27] Question: Average realized pricing outlook for 2026 - Management explained the discipline in pricing strategy, indicating that the market is not yet at replacement rates, which affects pricing appreciation [32][34] Question: Production outlook at McArthur River - Management addressed delays at McArthur River and the decision to pace production according to market demand, indicating no immediate incentive to accelerate production [50][52] Question: Technical risks around McArthur River - Management confirmed that technical risks are being managed systematically and that production plans are aligned with market demand [60][62] Question: Opportunities with the U.S. government - Management highlighted the strong long-term relationship with the U.S. government and ongoing interest in projects like Global Laser Enrichment [82]

Industry Overview - Nuclear energy is experiencing a revival as countries seek to expand their nuclear power capabilities, with the U.S. aiming to quadruple its nuclear energy capacity by 2050 [1] - The demand for nuclear energy is increasing while supply is tightening due to geopolitical risks, particularly concerning uranium supplies from Russia [1] Company: Cameco - Cameco is a North American uranium miner with high-grade mines, including MacArthur River and Cigar Lake, which contribute significantly to the global high-quality uranium supply [5] - The stock of Cameco has surged by 395% since the beginning of 2023, driven by rising demand for nuclear energy and geopolitical factors affecting uranium imports [6] - Cameco holds a 49% stake in Westinghouse, which provides services to nuclear plants and is involved in new reactor technologies, supported by an $80 billion commitment from the U.S. government for nuclear reactor construction [7] Company: Centrus Energy - Centrus Energy specializes in providing nuclear fuel components, including low-enriched uranium (LEU) and natural uranium hexafluoride, essential for nuclear reactors [8] - The company currently sources uranium from global suppliers, including Orano in France and TENEX in Russia, and has a waiver to import LEU, highlighting the urgent need to replace Russian-sourced enriched uranium, which constitutes about 25% of U.S. imports [9]