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PJT Partners (PJT) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

2026-02-03 14:32

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For the full year 2025, total revenues were $1.714 billion, up 15% year-over-year, marking a record result for the firm [5] - Q4 total revenues were $535 million, up 12% year-over-year, also reflecting a record revenue quarter [6] - Adjusted pre-tax income for the full year was $357 million, with an adjusted pre-tax margin of 20.8% [8] - Adjusted earnings per share were $6.98 for the full year, compared to $5.02 in 2024, and $2.55 for Q4, compared to $1.90 for Q4 2024 [9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Strategic Advisory was the primary driver of revenue growth, with record revenues for both Q4 and the full year [6][14] - Restructuring and PJT Park Hill also delivered record results, with Q4 being the best quarter ever for Restructuring [12][47] - Adjusted compensation expense for the full year was $1.15 billion, with a compensation ratio of 67.1%, down from 69% in 2024 [6][8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global primary fundraising volumes declined for the fourth consecutive year, while interest in secondary products continued to grow [12][13] - M&A activity increased sharply in 2025, with global announced volumes significantly up, making it the second-best year ever for announced M&A activity [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on investing in its firm and people, with a capital priority to return capital to shareholders primarily through repurchases [5][10] - The firm plans to report revenue as a single line item going forward, reflecting its strategic priority of expanding and integrating advisory capabilities [11] - The company is optimistic about its position in the Private Capital Solutions business, expecting it to offset declines in primary fundraising [15][47] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the continued demand for Liability Management and Restructuring services, citing a multi-year period of elevated activity [21][22] - The outlook for M&A activity remains positive, with expectations of continued strength in capital markets and CEO confidence [15][33] - Management acknowledged geopolitical risks and market volatility but maintained a constructive view on the overall macroeconomic environment [79][80] Other Important Information - The company ended the year with record cash balances of $586 million and no funded debt outstanding [10] - A quarterly dividend of $0.25 per share was approved by the Board [10] Q&A Session Questions and Answers Question: Outlook for Restructuring activity - Management indicated that the current economic environment suggests continued robust demand for Liability Management and Restructuring services, with no signs of decline [21][22] Question: Operating leverage from platform maturation - Management noted that productivity among strategic advisory partners has been increasing, and while investment pace affects short-term results, long-term growth remains a priority [25][26] Question: Competition for talent in restructuring - Management emphasized the firm's focus on attracting and retaining top talent, asserting confidence in its culture and opportunities for growth [72] Question: Trends in Private Capital Solutions - Management highlighted the growing interest in secondary products and the potential for market share growth in Private Capital Solutions, despite challenges in primary fundraising [66][70]