Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales increased approximately 8.4% to $1,035 million from $954.7 million in the second quarter of 2024 [12] - Gross profit increased 11.1% to $254.3 million for 2025 compared to $229 million for 2024 [14] - GAAP net income was $21.2 million or $0.49 per diluted share for 2025 compared to $15.5 million or $0.37 per diluted share for 2024 [16] - Adjusted EBITDA for 2025 was $65.4 million compared to $56.2 million for the prior year [16] - Adjusted net income was $22.5 million or $0.52 per diluted share for 2025 compared to $17 million or $0.40 per diluted share for the prior year [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Specialty sales were up 8.7% over the prior year, driven by unique customer growth of approximately 3.6% and placement growth of 8.7% [9] - Center of the Plate pounds were approximately 4% lower than the prior year, but excluding the attrition related to the Texas commodity protein program, growth was 5.8% higher [10][36] - Gross profit margins increased approximately 59 basis points to 24.6% [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net inflation was 7.2% in the second quarter, with 5% inflation in the specialty category and 10.8% in the center of the plate category [13] - Excluding the impact of attrition from the commodity poultry program, net inflation in the center of the plate category was 4.1% [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on integrating Hardee's operations in Texas with its legacy operations to drive top-line and bottom-line improvements [8] - The company aims to create a $500 million CW business across Texas through cross-selling and expanding its customer base [71] - The company is exploring tuck-in acquisitions to utilize the capacity of its facilities while continuing to grow organically [77] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism regarding the operating environment, noting that customers are generally resilient and the company is gaining market share [21][22] - The company raised its full-year guidance for 2025, estimating net sales in the range of $4 billion to $4.06 billion [19] - Management indicated that the second half of the year is expected to show typical seasonality with a projected 6% revenue growth [68] Other Important Information - The company achieved the Great Place to Work certification for the fourth consecutive year, highlighting its focus on people as its greatest asset [7] - Total liquidity at the end of the second quarter was $260.3 million, comprised of $96.9 million in cash and $163.4 million available under its ABL facility [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Are there any pockets of weakness or elevated restaurant closures? - Management noted some choppiness but overall expressed satisfaction with market share gains and customer resilience [21][22] Question: Have you seen an uplift in business dining with the return to office policies? - Management indicated a net positive effect on lunch business in major cities but noted it is balanced with local market impacts [24][25] Question: How is summer travel impacting demand? - Management observed a good July, suggesting a rebalancing of tourism and local dining [30][32] Question: What should be expected regarding Hardee's planned attrition? - Management expects continued impacts on reported volume numbers but sees long-term profitability benefits from shedding low-margin programs [36][41] Question: What is the outlook for inflation in the second half? - Management indicated that aggregate inflation is expected to remain moderate, with potential unforeseen impacts from tariffs [47][60] Question: Can you elaborate on gross margin improvements? - Management acknowledged moving parts affecting gross margin but highlighted ongoing initiatives contributing to improvements [52][54] Question: What is the outlook for M&A activity? - Management remains opportunistic regarding M&A, looking for tuck-in acquisitions to complement organic growth [77] Question: Are the 2028 goals contributing to current results? - Management confirmed that several initiatives related to the 2028 goals are contributing positively to current performance [82]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported consolidated sales of $587.4 million for Q2 2025, an 8% increase year-over-year [17] - Fully diluted earnings per share were $1.31, up from $1.26 in the prior year, reflecting a 6 cent increase [17] - Consolidated operating income reached $88.1 million, an 11% increase from $79.1 million in the previous year, with operating income margin at 15%, up from 14.6% [20][24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Water Systems segment sales increased by 8% year-over-year, with operating income at $61.8 million, a slight decrease from the previous year due to margin pressures [13][22] - Energy Systems sales grew by 6%, with operating income rising to $29.1 million and operating income margin improving to 37.5% [14][24] - Distribution segment sales were $200 million, a 5% increase, with operating income at $16.1 million, reflecting a 300 basis point improvement in operating income margin [15][22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales in markets outside the US and Canada for Water Systems increased by 12%, with foreign currency translation negatively impacting sales by 1% [21] - The company noted a healthy backlog and order trends, indicating stability in demand across various markets [6][65] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on innovation, global portfolio expansion, and strengthening its leadership position in key markets [28] - Recent acquisitions are performing well, and the company aims to leverage synergies to enhance operational efficiency [29] - The company plans to maintain its capital return strategy while investing in growth opportunities [29] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in sustaining momentum despite global market uncertainties related to tariffs and commodity inflation [8][26] - The company anticipates a normal market cadence in the second half of the year, with a focus on executing its growth strategy [65][66] Other Important Information - The company ended Q2 2025 with a cash balance of $104.6 million and generated $52 million in net cash flows from operating activities [25] - A quarterly cash dividend of 26.5 cents was announced, payable on August 21 [25] Q&A Session Summary Question: Did Q2 benefit from pull forward orders? - Management indicated there was no significant pull forward from Q3 to Q2, stating it was business as usual [36] Question: How much did cost actions contribute to margin expansion in the distribution segment? - Cost actions contributed about a third of the 300 basis points margin expansion, with operational efficiency also playing a significant role [38] Question: Update on integration at PumpEngine and Barnes? - Integration is progressing well, with strong growth synergies being realized faster than expected [41] Question: Insights on the water segment's product mix? - Most of the mix pressure is product-driven, with a strong order book and backlog expected to support performance in the back half [49] Question: What catalysts are expected for the residential market? - The company is focusing on new product innovations and believes it can offset weaker housing starts through its high service and replacement demand [53] Question: Thoughts on the M&A pipeline? - The company has a robust M&A pipeline and is optimistic about future opportunities to enter faster-growing markets [68] Question: Strength in orders and backlog compared to last year? - Backlogs are up in the low double digits year-over-year, with a book-to-bill ratio above one for all segments [83]

Core Viewpoint - Popular, Inc. (BPOP) reported strong second-quarter 2025 adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $3.09, exceeding expectations and showing growth from the previous year [1][10] Financial Performance - The company's net income on a GAAP basis was $210.4 million, reflecting an 18.4% increase year over year [2] - Total quarterly revenues reached $800 million, a 9% increase from the same quarter last year [3] - Net interest income (NII) was $631.5 million, up 11.1% year over year, with the net interest margin expanding by 27 basis points to 3.49% [3] - Non-interest income increased by 1.3% year over year to $168.5 million, driven by higher service charges and net gains on equity securities [4] Expenses and Provisions - Total operating expenses rose by 4.9% year over year to $492.7 million, primarily due to increased personnel costs and business promotion [4][10] - Provisions for credit losses were $48.9 million, up 4.6% from the prior year [6] Loans and Deposits - Total loans held-in-portfolio increased by 2.5% sequentially to $37.4 billion, while total deposits rose by 2.1% to $67.2 billion [5] Credit Quality - Non-performing assets decreased by 13.1% year over year to $357.7 million, with a non-performing assets to total assets ratio of 0.47% [6] Capital Ratios - As of June 30, 2025, the Common Equity Tier 1 capital ratio and Tier 1 capital ratio were 15.91% and 15.96%, respectively, down from 16.48% and 16.54% in the previous year [7] Share Repurchase - In the reported quarter, the company repurchased 1,136,390 shares of common stock for $112 million [8] Strategic Positioning - The company is positioned to benefit from business transformation efforts and modernization of customer channels, with an increase in loans and deposits strengthening its balance sheet [11]

Core Insights - Global Payments Inc. (GPN) has expanded its collaboration with Banco Nacional de México, processing nearly 900 million transactions annually through its EVO Payments division [1][8] - The multi-year renewal of the partnership aims to serve a wide range of merchants, from small and mid-sized businesses to large enterprises, integrating GPN's payment solutions with Banamex's banking services [2][8] - The alliance is expected to enhance commerce and payment solutions in Mexico, particularly benefiting SMEs that account for 52% of the country's revenues [3] Company Strategy - Global Payments is focusing on upgrading its payments infrastructure and enhancing digital capabilities to boost its presence in Mexico and increase revenue through higher utilization of its solutions [4][5] - The company is actively pursuing divestitures to streamline operations and free up capital for investments in core areas, reinforcing its position as a commerce-focused solutions provider [5][6] Market Performance - Shares of Global Payments have increased by 23.1% over the past three months, outperforming the industry growth of 7.8% [7]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue for Q1 2026 was $6.4 million, essentially flat compared to the prior period [21] - Product sales decreased to $4.7 million from $5.3 million last year, while franchise and royalty fees increased to $1.7 million from $1.1 million [21] - Total product and retail gross profit improved to $300,000 from a negative $300,000, driven by pricing adjustments and operational efficiencies [22] - Costs and expenses decreased to $6.5 million from $8 million last year, primarily due to lower G&A costs [22] - Net loss was $300,000 or negative $0.04 per share, compared to a net loss of $1.7 million or negative $0.26 per share [22] - EBITDA for the quarter was $2 million, compared to a negative $1.4 million last year [22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company waived all freight charges for franchisees to drive volume and improve product freshness [7] - A flat monthly fee program for freight delivery was implemented to encourage more frequent store orders [7] - The adoption of the new POS system accelerated, enhancing visibility into operations and decision-making [9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company opened a new store in Charleston, South Carolina, featuring a refreshed brand identity [11] - Construction is expected to begin shortly on a new location in Downtown Chicago, targeting an opening ahead of the holiday season [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on stabilizing the business and transitioning from a rebuilding mode to an execution mode [5] - A new consumer packaging and e-commerce platform are set to launch, aimed at enhancing brand presentation and online conversions [17] - The company is actively building a development pipeline for new units while seeking capable franchise operators [12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the progress made in operational improvements and the potential for continued margin improvement [20] - The company believes it is in a better position to execute its strategy than in many years, with a focus on generating profit and returning to growth [20] Other Important Information - The company hired a new VP of operations with significant experience in manufacturing and logistics [10] - The refreshed website will include a section for new franchisees, making it more intuitive for potential operators [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: What early indicators are being watched to evaluate the impact of waived freight charges? - Management noted that order frequency has improved, encouraging franchisees to order more frequently [25] Question: What processes or decisions are expected to change with stabilized ERP data? - Management highlighted that the ERP data provides insights into manufacturing efficiencies and profitability, which will inform decision-making across departments [26] Question: How does the online strategy differ with the upcoming e-commerce relaunch? - Management emphasized the improved user interface and contemporary design of the new website, expecting positive results from the refresh [27][28] Question: What operational levers are expected to drive continued EBITDA expansion? - Management attributed positive EBITDA to improved pricing, SG&A discipline, and factory efficiencies, expecting these to continue [29] Question: What are the capital needs for expansion and improvements? - Management indicated that discussions regarding capital needs are ongoing, with no immediate plans to raise capital [35][36] Question: How is the growth strategy for new franchisees being developed? - Management stated that existing franchisees are prioritized for expansion, and new franchisees are being sourced through a network of referrals [43]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue for Q1 2026 was $6.4 million, essentially flat compared to the prior period [23] - Product sales decreased to $4.7 million from $5.3 million year-over-year, while franchise and royalty fees increased to $1.7 million from $1.1 million [23] - Total product and retail gross profit improved to $300,000 from a negative $300,000, driven by pricing adjustments and operational efficiencies [24] - Costs and expenses decreased to $6.5 million from $8 million year-over-year, primarily due to lower general and administrative costs [24] - Net loss was $300,000 or negative $0.04 per share, compared to a net loss of $1.7 million or negative $0.26 per share [24] - EBITDA for the quarter was $2 million, compared to a negative $1.4 million last year [24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company waived all freight charges for franchisees to drive volume and improve product freshness [8] - A flat monthly fee program for freight delivery was implemented to encourage more frequent store orders [8] - The adoption of the new POS system accelerated, enhancing visibility into operations and decision-making [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company opened a new store in Charleston, South Carolina, featuring a refreshed brand identity [13] - Construction is expected to begin shortly on a new location in Downtown Chicago, targeting an opening ahead of the holiday season [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on stabilizing the business and transitioning from a rebuilding mode to an execution mode [5][6] - A new consumer packaging and e-commerce platform are set to launch, aimed at enhancing brand presentation and online conversions [18] - The company is actively building a development pipeline for new units while seeking capable franchise operators [14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the progress made and the discipline applied across the business [7] - The first quarter demonstrated foundational investments and operational improvements beginning to produce desired results, with expectations for continued growth throughout the year [22] - The company believes it is in a better position to execute its strategy than in many years, aiming for sustainable growth and long-term value creation [22] Other Important Information - The company hired a new VP of operations with significant experience in manufacturing and logistics [12] - The refreshed website will include a section for new franchisees, making it more intuitive for potential operators [21] Q&A Session Summary Question: What early indicators are being watched to evaluate the impact of the flat freight charge? - The company is monitoring order frequency, which has improved since waiving the fee, encouraging franchisees to order more frequently [28] Question: What processes or decisions are expected to change with the ERP data stabilization? - The ERP data provides insights into manufacturing efficiencies and profitability, which will inform decision-making across departments [29] Question: How does the online strategy differ with the e-commerce relaunch? - The new website features a contemporary user interface and is positioned as a core brand experience, with results expected to be reported in the future [30][31] Question: What operational levers are expected to drive continued EBITDA expansion? - Continued improvements in pricing, SG&A discipline, and factory efficiencies are anticipated to drive EBITDA growth [32] Question: What are the capital needs for expansion? - Currently, the company is not planning to raise capital but is in ongoing discussions with the board regarding future needs [39][40] Question: How is the growth strategy for new franchisees being developed? - The company is focusing on existing franchisees for expansion and employing business consultants to improve store performance [46][47]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The fourth quarter net sales were $257.1 million, a decrease of 7% year-over-year but an increase of 7% sequentially from Q3 [32][42] - Adjusted loss from operations for the fourth quarter was $21.6 million, a decrease of $11.8 million from the previous fiscal year [33] - Fourth quarter adjusted EBITDA was a negative $7.1 million, down $12.4 million from the same period last year [35] - Full year net sales were $1.048 billion, a decrease of 6% from the previous fiscal year [42] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Record sales for power products in data center applications exceeded $80 million for the full year, almost double that of fiscal 2024 [13][42] - EV sales represented 20% of consolidated total sales, an increase from 14% year-over-year, but sequentially decreased by approximately 10% from Q3 [15] - The company expects a 10% to 15% decline in EV sales for fiscal 2026 due to weaker market demand and program delays [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced significant sales headwinds from the roll-off of major auto programs, particularly the GM center console and EV lighting programs [11][42] - The decline in sales was primarily driven by the impact of these program roll-offs, which had a combined year-over-year impact of $111 million [42] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on improving operational execution and successfully launching a large pipeline of new programs, with 22 new programs launched in fiscal 2025 and another 30 expected in fiscal 2026 [18][19] - The transformation strategy aims to stabilize the organization and position it for future growth, particularly in data centers and EV markets [20][27] - The company plans to optimize its footprint and reevaluate its product portfolio to align with market opportunities [22][27] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management indicated that fiscal 2026 will be a reset year due to EV program delays, particularly from Stellantis, but expects a return to growth in fiscal 2027 [7][10] - The company anticipates doubling its EBITDA in fiscal 2026 despite projected declining sales of approximately $100 million [10][28] - Management emphasized the importance of operational improvements and cost recovery actions in response to external challenges [16][17] Other Important Information - The company recorded $26 million in free cash flow for the quarter, marking the best quarter since Q4 of fiscal 2023 [8] - The company reduced both debt and net debt levels by $10 million from Q3 [17] - The board reduced the dividend, which was a strategic decision to provide more flexibility from a working capital perspective [92] Q&A Session Summary Question: How to understand the expected sales decline and EBITDA increase? - Management explained that operational improvements and the elimination of one-time expenses will contribute to the expected EBITDA increase despite declining sales [52][54] Question: What percentage of the new launches are EV platforms? - Approximately 50% of the new launches are related to EV platforms, with a significant focus on data center growth as well [56][74] Question: What is the status of Stellantis revenue expectations? - Management confirmed a significant reduction in expected revenue from Stellantis, with a $200 million swing from previous projections due to program delays [44][80] Question: What is the leverage waiver status? - The leverage covenants were relaxed through the next year, starting at 4.25 for Q4 of fiscal 2025 [62][64] Question: How much of the revenue decline is due to pricing? - The revenue decline is primarily due to program delays and cancellations, not pricing issues [100]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The fourth quarter net sales were $257.1 million, a decrease of 7% year-over-year but an increase of 7% sequentially from the third quarter [35][36] - The full year fiscal 2025 net sales were $1.048 billion, down 6% from $1.115 billion in fiscal 2024, primarily due to program roll-offs [45] - The fourth quarter adjusted loss from operations was $21.6 million, a decrease of $11.8 million from fiscal 2024 [36] - Fourth quarter adjusted EBITDA was a negative $7.1 million, down $12.4 million year-over-year [39] - Free cash flow for the fourth quarter was $26.3 million, an increase of $10.5 million from fiscal 2024 [42] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Record sales for power products in data center applications exceeded $80 million for the full year, nearly double that of fiscal 2024 [14][45] - EV sales represented 20% of consolidated total sales, showing a year-over-year increase of 1419%, but a sequential decrease of approximately 10% from Q3 [16] - The automotive segment faced significant challenges, with historical warranty and quality issues contributing to losses [13][41] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company expects a 10% to 15% decline in EV sales for fiscal 2026 due to weaker market demand and program delays [17] - The company anticipates a significant rebound in EV sales in fiscal 2027 based on customer forecasts and industry projections [17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on improving operational execution and successfully launching a large pipeline of new programs, with 30 new program launches expected in fiscal 2026 [20][49] - The transformation strategy aims to enhance operational efficiency and drive innovation, particularly in data centers and EV markets [30][31] - The company plans to optimize its footprint and reevaluate its product portfolio to align with market opportunities [29][30] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged that fiscal 2026 will be a reset year due to EV program delays, particularly from Stellantis, but expects to double EBITDA despite declining sales [11][12] - The leadership team emphasized the importance of maintaining discipline and focus on objectives amid external challenges such as tariffs and market volatility [24][25] Other Important Information - The company has successfully remediated three material weaknesses in internal controls identified in fiscal 2024 [51] - The dividend was reduced to $0.07 per share to provide flexibility and align with peers, considering the company's financial situation [104] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the key earnings levers given the expected sales decline? - Management highlighted operational improvements and the elimination of one-time expenses as key factors for expected EBITDA growth despite lower sales [54][58] Question: How many of the new launches are EV platforms? - Approximately 50% of the new program launches are related to the EV market, with a significant focus on data center growth as well [79] Question: Can you clarify the leverage waiver and covenant levels? - The leverage covenants were relaxed, starting at 4.25 for Q4 of fiscal 2025, with confidence in meeting these covenants over the next year [66][67]

Core Insights - Aeries Technology has launched the 1GCC automation initiative, which significantly enhances value creation for private-equity portfolio companies through improved transparency and execution [1][2]. Group 1: 1GCC Platform Features - The 1GCC platform provides real-time status updates during the Design and Build phases, allowing clients to monitor progress and manage risks effectively [2]. - A key feature, the Value Creation Planner, helps private-equity-backed portfolio companies define strategic priorities early and track them through the Operate phase, aligning execution with investment goals [2][3]. - The platform is designed to co-create value with clients by offering a single source of truth, enabling them to track progress and measure outcomes in real time [3]. Group 2: Operational Benefits - Early usage of the 1GCC platform has led to measurable improvements, including reduced manual overhead, enhanced PMO productivity, and faster reporting through better automation and visibility [3]. - The platform's development utilized technologies such as Python, React, Power Apps, and AI agents, supporting rapid deployment and scalability [3]. Group 3: Strategic Importance - 1GCC not only focuses on automation but also provides a value-first, insight-led foundation for scaling global capabilities, helping portfolio companies future-proof their operations [4]. - Aeries Technology positions itself as a leader in AI-enabled value creation and business transformation for private-equity portfolio companies, emphasizing its commitment to workforce development [5].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue for Q4 2025 was $8.9 million, up from $7.3 million in the same period last year, while product sales increased to $7.1 million from $5.6 million [24] - Net loss from continuing operations was $2.9 million, or a negative $0.37 per share, compared to a net loss of $1.6 million, or a negative $0.25 per share in the previous year [26] - For the full year 2025, revenue was $29.6 million compared to $28 million in 2024, with a net loss of $6.1 million, or negative $0.86 per share, compared to a net loss of $4.9 million, or negative $0.77 per share in the prior year [27][28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Franchise and royalty fees remained flat at $1.8 million, while total product and retail gross profit was a negative $800,000 compared to a positive $100,000 last year, primarily due to higher raw material costs [24][27] - The company achieved nearly a 100% fulfillment rate for franchisee demand during Q4, marking a significant turnaround in operational performance [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is actively evaluating development opportunities in markets such as Atlanta, Sacramento, Park City, and Jersey Shore, with a focus on building a healthy franchise network [10] - The e-commerce business delivered record sales during the past holiday season, although profitability was challenged due to inefficient fulfillment and elevated advertising spend [18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on transforming its operations, systems, and culture to become more accountable and resilient, with significant investments in IT and manufacturing systems [5][22] - A new dynamic pricing model was introduced on March 1, allowing for more frequent price adjustments based on actual input costs, which is expected to capture several million dollars in additional gross profit in fiscal 2026 [12] - The company aims to build deeper regional density with fewer, stronger operators who have multi-unit development plans, moving away from a one-size-fits-all pricing model [11][37] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about returning to profitability in fiscal 2026, highlighting the foundational changes made during fiscal 2025 [22][23] - The leadership team is focused on rebuilding the company from a long-term decline, with a strong emphasis on operational discipline and accountability [23] Other Important Information - The company raised $2.2 million in equity capital and refinanced its credit facility to support its transformation efforts [22] - A new ERP system was launched in January, providing enhanced visibility into sales and inventory, which is critical for data-driven decision-making [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the process for determining quarterly price adjustments? - The company plans to adjust prices quarterly or more frequently as needed, ensuring alignment with costs while maintaining target margins [30] Question: What is the status of the rebranding process? - Feedback on the rebranding has been positive, with new store designs and packaging expected to roll out in mid to late July [32][34] Question: What is the strategy for new unit growth? - The focus will be on engaging fewer, well-capitalized franchisees who can operate multiple stores, rather than expanding through numerous single-store operators [36][37] Question: Why were the filings delayed this year? - Delays were primarily due to the ERP installation and additional testing required to ensure data accuracy, not indicative of any underlying issues [39]