Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported first quarter 2025 operating earnings of $1.54 per share, totaling $823 million, which is a 20% increase compared to the same period last year [8][22] - The company reaffirmed its 2025 operating earnings guidance range of $5.75 to $5.95 per share and a long-term operating earnings growth rate of 6% to 8% [8][38] - GAAP earnings for the first quarter were $1.50 per share, down from $1.91 per share in 2024, primarily due to a charge related to the write-off of previously deferred costs [20][21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Operating earnings for vertically integrated utilities were $0.66 per share, up $0.09 from a year earlier, driven by favorable weather and rate changes [22] - The transmission and distribution utilities segment earned $0.36 per share, up $0.07 from last year, benefiting from rate changes and higher transmission revenue [22] - Generation and marketing produced $0.14 per share, up $0.02 from last year, with favorable retail and wholesale margins [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - AEP's total retail load growth has been favorable, with commercial load growing 12.3% compared to the first quarter of last year [9] - The company expects to see annual retail load growth of between 8% to 9% through 2027, representing a significant increase in demand [27] - The company has over 500 existing and potential customers requesting to connect nearly 80 gigawatts of load to its transmission system [30] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is committed to investing $54 billion over the next five years to meet the needs of 5.6 million customers across 11 states [5][8] - AEP is focusing on infrastructure investments to support increasing electric demand, including plans for new generation and transmission projects [10][12] - The company is actively managing regulatory strategies to ensure fair cost allocation and protect existing customers while attracting large loads [11][18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's growth potential, citing significant economic development activities across its footprint [38] - The company is optimistic about achieving its 2025 commitments and maintaining a strong balance sheet to support capital spending needs [8][38] - Management highlighted the importance of regulatory developments and customer engagement in driving future growth [14][18] Other Important Information - The company has received commission approvals for large load tariffs in several states, indicating strong regulatory support for its growth initiatives [11] - AEP's first quarter earned ROE for rate-related businesses was 9.3%, up from 9.05% at year-end [15] - The company is focused on reducing regulatory lag and has made timely filings to support its financial and operational strategies [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: How are conversations going in West Virginia regarding securitization? - Management reported positive discussions and is optimistic about achieving a favorable outcome in the upcoming hearings [41][43] Question: Are there any pullbacks from hyperscalers like Microsoft? - Management noted that despite Microsoft's delay, there is still robust demand from other customers, and the overall system demand remains strong [45][46] Question: How do you reconcile current sales trends against the 2025 forecast? - Management indicated that while near-term earnings impacts may be muted, the rapid addition of commercial and industrial load creates additional growth opportunities [51][53] Question: What are the implications of shifting from ESPs to MYPs in Ohio? - Management highlighted that the new legislation supports capital investment growth and promotes timely recovery of investments, which is beneficial for the company [55][56] Question: What is the plan for financing the potential $10 billion upside? - Management stated that they have already secured equity needs through previous transactions and have various levers to pull for future financing [100][102]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q1 2025, operating revenue was $204 million, compared to $270.7 million in Q1 2024, reflecting a decrease due to interim rate relief recorded in the previous year [8] - Net income attributed to the group was $13.3 million or $0.22 per diluted share, down from $69.9 million or $1.21 per diluted share in Q1 2024 [9] - Adjusted for interim rate relief, Q1 revenue increased by 13% over non-GAAP 2024 revenue of $180.5 million, and net income increased by 225% over non-GAAP income of $4.1 million [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Capital investments during the quarter totaled $110.1 million, consistent with the record quarter reported in Q1 2024 [11] - The company expects annual capital expenditures to increase over the next five years due to ongoing infrastructure needs [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - As of March 31, 2025, the company had $44.5 million in unrestricted cash, $45.7 million in restricted cash, and $315 million available on credit lines, indicating a strong liquidity profile [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on rate base growth, targeting a compounded annual growth rate of approximately 11.7% [12] - The ongoing greenfield development in Texas is progressing well, with a focus on the South Austin corridor [23] - The company is also evaluating domestic M&A opportunities as a supplemental growth strategy [24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the progress of the 2021 general rate case, noting that discussions with the California Public Advocates are ongoing [14][15] - The company is managing controllable expenses tightly due to market volatility and inflation, while maintaining a focus on capital execution [22][23] - Management is optimistic about the water supply situation in California, with strong snowpack and reservoir levels above historical averages [20][21] Other Important Information - The Board of Directors approved a quarterly dividend of $0.30 per share, representing a 10.7% increase from the previous year [13] - The company received regulatory approvals for various projects, including the Palos Verdes Peninsula Water Reliability Project, which is the largest in the company's history [17][18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Key points of contention in the California GRC - Management indicated that they cannot disclose specific details due to ongoing settlement discussions but are identifying non-contested areas for submission to the judge [28][30] Question: Comparison of the current GRC to the previous one - Management noted that the current GRC is progressing better than the previous one, with more positive engagement from the commissioner and advocates [36][39] Question: Managing costs amid market volatility - Management stated that it is too early to predict the impact of tariffs and supply chain issues but remains optimistic based on past experiences managing supply constraints [41][42] Question: Drivers behind better-than-expected Q1 results - Management attributed the positive results to effective budget management, a more accurate water mix in the rate case, and higher customer usage [51][55] Question: Potential for a global settlement in the GRC - Management expressed uncertainty about achieving a global settlement but remains hopeful as they proceed with the hearings [60][62]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Earnings per share (EPS) for Q1 2025 were $1.05, an increase of nearly 11% compared to $0.95 in Q1 2024, affirming the company's full-year EPS guidance of 8% growth [7][12] - Consolidated reported earnings were $1.50 per share, up $0.10 per share versus the same period in 2024, with revenues higher by $0.44 per share due to authorized rate increases and acquisitions [13][14] - Operating costs increased by $0.15 per share, primarily due to employee-related costs and acquisition-related expenses [14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved a constructive settlement in the general rate case in Missouri, with an annualized revenue increase of $63 million expected [15] - In Virginia, a settlement approved a $15 million annualized increase in water and wastewater revenues [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company continues to expect to grow its dividend at 7% to 9% per year, in line with its EPS growth target [11] - The total debt to capital ratio was 58%, within the target of less than 60%, with strong credit ratings affirmed by S&P and Moody's [21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims for long-term earnings and dividend growth of 7% to 9%, driven by a capital investment program targeting approximately $3.3 billion in 2025 [10][22] - The company is focused on infrastructure investments, particularly in PFAS remediation and lead service line replacement, while maintaining a strong regulatory and operational execution [22][24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the ability to execute financial and operational plans, with no expected material impact from recent tariff-related announcements [20] - The company highlighted the need for significant investments in U.S. water infrastructure, estimating a total of $625 billion over the next twenty years [29] Other Important Information - The Board approved an increase in the quarterly cash dividend from $0.765 to $0.825 per share, marking an 8.2% increase [11] - The company is well-positioned for growth through acquisitions, with approximately 37,000 customer connections under agreement [26] Q&A Session Summary Question: Thoughts on pulling forward 2026 equity issuance - Management stated there are no plans to pull forward equity issuance and will evaluate the market as needed [37] Question: Acquisition outlook under potential recession - Management expects a continuous flow of acquisition opportunities, potentially driven by recession or reduced federal funding [38] Question: Update on California rate case - Management did not disclose the percentage increase for the California rate case and confirmed a separate proceeding for cost of capital [43][44] Question: Update on California desalination project - Management confirmed that the last major permit approval was received, and they expect to break ground on the desalination project this year [49] Question: Legislative progress and opportunities - Management did not quantify the opportunities from legislative changes but noted they would help earned returns in each state [56]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported adjusted earnings of $3.6 per share for Q2 FY 2025, an increase from $3.45 per share in the same quarter last year, reflecting strong growth in utility and midstream segments [7] - Adjusted earnings for the quarter totaled over $214 million, an increase of almost $18 million compared to the previous year [17] - The Gas Utilities segment had earnings of approximately $195 million, over $7 million higher than last year, driven by increased ISRS revenues and usage [18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The utility CapEx increased nearly 27% year over year, focusing on upgrading distribution infrastructure and connecting more homes to natural gas [14] - Midstream segment earnings showed strong growth due to new contracts and higher rates on contract renewals [19] - Marketing segment earnings were strong but slightly lower than the prior year due to reduced market volatility [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The labor market in St. Louis has fully recovered, reaching pre-pandemic employment levels, which is expected to drive economic growth [12] - The Missouri Public Service Commission staff recommended a $19 million revenue increase in the infrastructure system replacement surcharge [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on organic growth, infrastructure investment, and continuous improvement, with a long-term EPS growth target of 5% to 7% [11][26] - A ten-year capital investment plan of $7.4 billion is in place to support growth [11] - The company is committed to modernizing systems and enhancing regulatory engagement to maximize value for stakeholders [6] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving fiscal 2025 adjusted earnings guidance of $4.4 to $4.6 per share, despite challenges from weather-related margin headwinds [22][26] - The company is focused on executing its capital investment plan and driving operational excellence to strengthen utility and gas-related business performance [11][26] Other Important Information - The company is increasing its fiscal 2025 capital investment target by $50 million to $840 million, with significant investments in both utility and midstream segments [14] - The Missouri rate case is ongoing, with proposed revenue increases and discussions on weather mechanisms being a key focus [15][42] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you speak about 1H trends and full-year guidance? - Management acknowledged margin weakness in Missouri and adjusted guidance accordingly, while midstream performance exceeded expectations [31][32] Question: What are the prospects for a settlement within the rate case? - Management indicated that settlement discussions are anticipated, with community meetings and public hearings scheduled [46] Question: Can you elaborate on the weather mechanism in the rate case? - Management confirmed that the weather mechanism is a significant focus and they are working on options to address it with stakeholders [42][44] Question: How does the passage of SB4 affect future rate cases? - Management stated that the first opportunity to file based on a future test year will be in July 2026, and they are focused on the current rate case [51][53] Question: How does the guidance modification reflect the utility business's earnings power? - Management confirmed that fixing the weather mechanism could restore earnings power, while midstream and marketing businesses show slight structural uplift [61][64]

Lincoln Electric (LECO) Q1 2025 Earnings Call April 30, 2025 10:00 AM ET Company Participants Amanda Butler - VP, IR & CommunicationsSteven Hedlund - Chair, President and Chief Executive OfficerGabriel Bruno - EVP, CFO & TreasurerSaree Boroditsky - Senior Vice PresidentStefan Diaz - Vice President, Equity ResearchChristian Zyla - Senior Associate Equity ResearchChristopher Dankert - SVP - Equity Research Conference Call Participants Bryan Blair - Managing Director & Senior Research AnalystMircea Dobre - Ass ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported adjusted earnings of $3.6 per share for Q2 FY 2025, an increase from $3.45 per share a year ago, reflecting strong growth in utility and midstream segments [8][12] - Adjusted earnings for the quarter totaled over $214 million, an increase of almost $18 million compared to the previous year [18] - The Gas Utilities segment had earnings of approximately $195 million, over $7 million higher than last year, driven by increased ISRS revenues and usage [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The utility CapEx increased nearly 27% year over year, focusing on upgrading distribution infrastructure and connecting more homes to natural gas [15] - Midstream segment earnings showed strong growth due to new contracts and higher rates on contract renewals [19] - Marketing segment earnings were strong but slightly lower than the prior year due to reduced market volatility [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced colder temperatures in both Missouri and Alabama compared to last year, impacting volumetric margins [20] - The weather mitigation adjustment in Missouri was ineffective, leading to misalignment between revenues and usage [20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on organic growth, infrastructure investment, and continuous improvement, with a long-term EPS growth target of 5% to 7% [12][27] - A ten-year capital investment plan of $7.4 billion is in place, with an increased fiscal 2025 capital investment target of $840 million [15][12] - The company aims to modernize systems and enhance regulatory engagement to maximize value for customers and stakeholders [7][12] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving fiscal 2025 adjusted earnings guidance of $4.4 to $4.6 per share, despite challenges from weather-related margin headwinds [12][22] - The company is committed to executing its capital investment plan and driving operational excellence [12][27] - Management highlighted the positive economic developments in St. Louis, including job growth from Boeing's new contracts [13] Other Important Information - The Missouri Public Service Commission staff recommended a $19 million revenue increase in the infrastructure system replacement surcharge [10] - Senate Bill four was signed into law, allowing utilities to set rates based on projected costs, which is expected to enhance system reliability [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you speak about 1H trends and full-year guidance? - Management acknowledged margin weakness in Missouri but noted strong performance in the midstream segment, indicating a mixed outlook for the utility business [32][34] Question: Is weather the sole deviation on the utility side? - Management confirmed that weather-related margin issues were the main driver of the deviation, with some minor additional factors [34] Question: Is the $8 million increase in midstream guidance a one-off? - Management indicated that while there is some optimization contributing to the increase, it suggests a potential uplift in run rate over time [36] Question: What are the prospects for a settlement within the rate case? - Management expressed optimism about engaging in constructive discussions with stakeholders regarding the rate case [48][49] Question: Timing on future rate cases after SB4? - Management clarified that the first opportunity to file based on a future test year would be in July 2026, with current focus on the ongoing rate case [56] Question: Will there be a rulemaking process before filing for a future test year? - Management confirmed that rulemaking is required and they will actively participate once it begins [72]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenues for the quarter were nearly $1 billion, while EBITDAR was $338 million, maintaining property level margins of 40%, consistent with the prior year [5][19] - The company reported a 28% increase in weather-impacted days compared to last year, yet managed to grow revenues and EBITDAR in the Midwest and South segment [10][19] - The online segment grew EBITDAR by nearly 14% year over year, driven by stable performance from market access agreements and strong growth from Boyd Interactive [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the Las Vegas Locals segment, revenues were nearly even with the prior year, while EBITDAR was down less than 4%, primarily due to competitive pressures at the Orleans [8] - Downtown Las Vegas achieved both revenue and EBITDAR growth during the first quarter, with solid visitation from Hawaii and healthy pedestrian traffic along Fremont Street [9] - The managed and other business saw strong growth driven by management fees from Sky River Casino, with ongoing expansion activities set to enhance future growth [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Customer trends remained consistent through April, with no meaningful shifts in consumer behavior or spending patterns observed thus far in the second quarter [6][20] - The company noted that Hawaiian visitation to the downtown segment was temporarily impacted last year by higher airfares related to the Super Bowl, creating a favorable comparison for the first quarter of this year [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on enhancing competitiveness through property renovations and expansions, including a $750 million resort project in Norfolk, Virginia, scheduled for completion in late 2027 [17][18] - Capital investment programs are aimed at creating long-term shareholder value, with a commitment to return capital through stock repurchases and dividends [19][26] - The company remains cautious about M&A opportunities, emphasizing a disciplined approach to acquisitions that align with strategic goals [55][56] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term prospects of the company, citing a strong balance sheet and diversified business as key strengths in navigating economic uncertainty [7][20] - The company acknowledged the potential for increased costs due to tariffs but indicated that current budgets would not be significantly impacted [49][52] Other Important Information - The company repurchased $328 million in stock during the first quarter and paid $15 million in dividends, with plans to continue repurchasing $100 million in shares per quarter [19][26] - The company is actively managing operating expenses and exploring efficiencies to mitigate inflationary pressures [96] Q&A Session Summary Question: Plans for Paradise Riverboat Casino - The company has a list of development projects prioritized based on expected returns, with plans to upgrade older riverboats over time [33][34] Question: Outlook for Core and Retail Customers - Management sees core customer trends continuing to grow, with retail customers performing consistently, despite some noise from external factors [38][39] Question: Buyback Strategy and Timing - The company balanced its buyback strategy with maintaining a strong balance sheet, taking advantage of favorable stock prices in Q1 while remaining cautious moving forward [44][46] Question: Impact of Tariffs on Capital Projects - The company evaluated capital projects for potential deferral and identified sources to mitigate tariff impacts, ensuring budgets remain intact [49][50] Question: Competitive Landscape in Locals Market - The locals market has seen slight shrinkage, but the company has outperformed the overall market, particularly excluding the Orleans property [78][80] Question: Hawaiian Travel and Weather Impact - The company estimated a $5 million impact from weather on EBITDA for the quarter, with Hawaiian travel normalized compared to last year [74][71] Question: Non-Gaming Amenities Spending - Spending on food and beverage and hotel services is up on a cash basis, with no significant declines noted in non-gaming amenities [66] Question: Canadian Travel Impact - Canadian visitation is a minor segment for the company, accounting for less than 0.1% of business, thus not significantly impacting overall performance [103] Question: Future of iGaming Platform - The company aims to grow its Stardust iGaming platform modestly, focusing on markets where it operates, without significant acquisitions planned [90][91]