Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a net sales decline to $40.7 million in Q4 2024 from $41.2 million in Q4 2023, attributed to lower volume but higher pricing in specialty chemicals [32] - Adjusted EBITDA increased to $2.6 million in Q4 2024 from negative $5.9 million in Q4 2023, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 6.3% compared to negative 14.4% in the prior year [35] - For the full year 2024, net sales were $177.9 million, down from $193.2 million in 2023, while gross profit increased significantly to $22.1 million or 12.4% of net sales compared to $1.5 million or 0.8% in 2023 [36] Business Segment Data and Key Metrics Changes - The tubular products segment experienced a year-over-year sales decline of $12.4 million but increased segment-level gross profit by approximately $15 million due to cost management and product line optimization [16] - The specialty chemicals segment achieved its highest quarterly adjusted EBITDA since Q2 2022, driven by a 14% increase in gross margin despite moderate top-line compression [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted that domestic investments in energy and infrastructure are beginning to translate into increased demand, with a stronger order backlog than in the past four years [17] - The total addressable market for the specialty chemicals segment is over $9 billion, with a focus on branded products that recorded a double-digit year-over-year increase in sales [20][22] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to maximize asset value in the tubular product segment while investing in profitable growth in specialty chemicals [7] - There is a commitment to organic growth through branded product sales and a disciplined approach to potential acquisitions [25] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed pragmatic optimism for 2025, indicating that while market dynamics are improving, significant changes are not expected in the first half of the year [17] - The company is focused on driving growth while maintaining operational excellence and has a strong liquidity position with over $16 million in cash [8][39] Other Important Information - The company has initiated a stock repurchase program, allowing for the acquisition of up to an additional one million shares over the next 24 months [9] - The company remains debt-free and generated nearly $15 million in free cash flow throughout the year [15][39] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the expectations for top-line growth in 2025? - Management indicated that top-line growth is more likely to be a second-half opportunity, with no material changes expected in the first half [44] Question: What contributed to the significant cash growth from Q3 to Q4? - The increase in cash was primarily driven by optimizing idle inventory and improved cash conversion cycles [48][49] Question: How is the new cleaning portfolio being received in the market? - The reception was positive, with new opportunities being pursued following the launch at a cleaning conference [55] Question: What is the outlook for margin improvement in the chemicals segment? - There is potential for ongoing margin improvement as branded product sales increase, although further price increases may not be anticipated [61] Question: Is the share repurchase goal achievable given past buyback trends? - Management clarified that the buyback program provides flexibility and is contingent on market conditions and share price [64] Question: Where does management see the company a year from now? - The focus is on pivoting to growth, both organically and inorganically, with plans to fill underutilized assets with high-value applications [68]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q4 2024, APA Corporation reported consolidated net income of $354 million or $0.96 per diluted share, with adjusted net income of $290 million or $0.79 per share [30][31] - The company generated $420 million of free cash flow in Q4 2024, the highest for any quarter in 2024, and returned 46% of this amount to shareholders [32][33] - For the full year 2024, APA generated $841 million in free cash flow, returning 71% to shareholders [33][34] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the Permian Basin, APA's US business now comprises almost entirely unconventional assets, driving over 75% of current adjusted production [13][14] - The company achieved a breakeven oil price of $61 per barrel in 2024, down from Cowen's 2023 breakeven of $78 per barrel [21] - In Egypt, the company improved its production profile through water flood activities, leading to a more predictable oil production profile [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - APA's average realized gas price is expected to increase from $2.96 per Mcf in Q4 2024 to at least $3.15 per Mcf in Q1 2025, with a full-year average expected in the $3.40 to $3.50 range [40] - The company anticipates generating a combined net gain of $600 million for 2025 from gas trading activities [44][109] Company Strategy and Development Direction - APA Corporation is focused on enhancing the quality and sustainability of its portfolio, particularly in the Permian Basin and Egypt, while also pursuing a differentiated exploration strategy [11][12] - The company plans to run an eight-rig program in the Permian and a twelve-rig program in Egypt for 2025, with a total capital budget of $2.5 to $2.6 billion [24][25] - Cost reduction initiatives are expected to generate at least $350 million in annualized savings by year-end 2027 [27][45] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the sustainability and predictability of production from the Permian and Egypt, with a focus on cost structure improvements [56][58] - The company aims to achieve BBB or better ratings from credit agencies, reflecting its strengthened balance sheet [34] - Management highlighted the importance of the gas program in Egypt, expecting year-over-year gas production growth for the first time in over a decade [39][92] Other Important Information - APA Corporation achieved a BBB- rating from S&P, marking its investment-grade status with all three rating agencies [13][34] - The company closed the sale of non-core conventional properties in the Permian Basin on December 31, 2024 [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Concerns about share performance despite strong cash flow - Management acknowledged the concerns and emphasized the transformation of their asset base, focusing on cost structure and sustainable inventory [55][56] Question: Share buybacks versus debt repayment - Management stated that they are working on both share buybacks and debt repayment, believing in the value of their shares [62][63] Question: Update on Alaska exploration - Operations in Alaska are progressing well, with no comments on pay zones yet, but management is optimistic about the results [68][69] Question: Productivity in Howard County - Management reported fantastic results in Howard County and plans to return for tighter well spacing [72][73] Question: Balancing rig activity between oil and gas in Egypt - Management indicated a strong start in gas drilling and plans to potentially shift more rigs to gas as results improve [92][94] Question: Receivable situation in Egypt - Management noted that past due balances have remained stable, with expectations for progress in 2025 [102][104] Question: Breakdown of gas trading revenue - Management provided a breakdown of expected gas trading revenue, with significant contributions from both pipeline trading and LNG contracts [108][109] Question: Structural changes in cost-cutting initiatives - Management detailed their approach to cost savings, emphasizing capital, LOE, and G&A as key areas for improvement [114][115]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net income for Q4 2024 was $36 million or $0.72 per diluted share, with adjusted net income at $45 million or $0.90 per diluted share, and adjusted EBITDA at $95 million [10][26] - The company reported a total liquidity of $632 million, consisting of $157 million in cash and $475 million in undrawn revolving credit [13][33] - The net loan-to-value ratio is below 16%, with a breakeven rate of approximately $13,700 per day [14][34] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The lightering business generated over $9 million in revenue for the quarter, contributing nearly $3 million in EBITDA for Q4 and approximately $20 million for the full year [28] - The company executed a vessel swap, selling two older VLCCs and acquiring three ECO MRs, which is part of a strategy to modernize the fleet [11][24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Oil demand growth is expected to continue at a historical rate of about 1% per year, with a projected increase of 1 to 1.5 million barrels per day for 2025 [16][17] - The geopolitical landscape remains complex, affecting tanker movements, particularly with tensions involving the U.S. and Iran, as well as the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict [18][19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to modernize its fleet, maintaining an average age of around ten years, which is seen as optimal for tanker investments [42] - A balanced capital allocation approach is emphasized, focusing on fleet renewal while providing competitive returns to shareholders [15][24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the tanker market's resilience, anticipating continued strong earnings due to limited tanker supply and a favorable demand environment [24][42] - The company expects to maintain a payout ratio of at least 75% going forward, reflecting a commitment to returning capital to shareholders [72] Other Important Information - The company returned over $300 million to shareholders in 2024, representing a 12% dividend yield on the average share price [14][41] - The company has a strong financial position with $475 million in undrawn credit capacity, allowing for flexibility in growth opportunities [42] Q&A Session Summary Question: Charter-out strategy in the current market - Management indicated that they have fourteen time charters in their fleet and are continuously evaluating opportunities in the charter market [50][53] Question: Outlook for MR rates and geographic focus - Management noted that Q1 bookings are strong, with good exposure to the East market, while the U.S. Gulf rates are showing some decline [61] Question: Dividend payout ratio expectations - Management confirmed that shareholders should expect a minimum payout ratio of 75%, with flexibility to adjust based on earnings fluctuations [72][73] Question: VLCC MR swap strategy - The swap was aimed at reducing the average age of the fleet rather than deemphasizing VLCCs, with a focus on maintaining a balanced fleet profile [76][80] Question: Breakeven rate components and future cost management - Management stated that they are focused on keeping costs in line and are optimistic about maintaining current breakeven rates [88] Question: Suez Max outlook - Management indicated that Suez Max rates are expected to improve as the VLCC market strengthens [98] Question: Share repurchase plans - Management confirmed that while the payout ratio is the primary method of returning cash, opportunistic buybacks are also considered [102] Question: Charter specifications and older vessels - Management noted that charterers may show some flexibility depending on market conditions and vessel availability [108] Question: Red Sea transit inquiries - Management stated that there are currently no pressures from charters to resume transits through the Red Sea [113]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net income for Q4 2024 was $36 million or $0.72 per diluted share, with adjusted net income at $45 million or $0.90 per diluted share, and adjusted EBITDA at $95 million [4][17] - The company reported a total liquidity of $632 million, consisting of $157 million in cash and $475 million in revolving credit facility [7][21] - The net loan to value ratio is below 16%, with a spot break-even rate of approximately $13,700 per day [7][21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The lightering business generated over $9 million in revenue for the quarter, contributing nearly $3 million in EBITDA [18] - The company executed a vessel swap, selling two older VLCCs and acquiring three Eco MRs built in 2015, optimizing fleet efficiency [6][9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Oil demand growth is expected to continue at a historical rate of about 1% per year, translating to an increase of 1 to 1.5 million barrels per day in 2025 [9][10] - The geopolitical situation, including tensions in the Red Sea and the Russia-Ukraine conflict, continues to impact tanker movements and market dynamics [11][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to modernize its fleet while maintaining a balanced capital allocation approach to provide competitive returns to shareholders [8][25] - The focus is on reducing the average age of the fleet, currently around 10 years, to enhance operational efficiency and capture market opportunities [50][25] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the tanker market's robustness despite geopolitical uncertainties, anticipating continued strong demand for tankers [82] - The company expects to maintain a payout ratio of at least 75% going forward, reflecting a commitment to returning capital to shareholders [46][47] Other Important Information - The company returned over $300 million to shareholders in 2024, representing a 12% dividend yield on the average share price [8][25] - The company has a $50 million share repurchase program, indicating flexibility in capital allocation strategies [72] Q&A Session Summary Question: Charter strategy in the current market - Management indicated they have 14 time charters out of 78 vessels and are continuously evaluating time charters with the right partners [32][33] Question: MR rates and geographic focus - Management noted that Q1 bookings are strong, with good exposure to both the Atlantic Basin and the East market [37] Question: Dividend payout ratio outlook - Management confirmed a minimum payout ratio of 75% going forward, with flexibility to adjust based on earnings fluctuations [46][47] Question: VLCC and MR swap transaction - The swap was aimed at reducing the fleet's average age rather than deemphasizing crude tankers [50] Question: Suezmax outlook - Management expects Suezmaxes to improve as geopolitical conditions stabilize, which could enhance market dynamics [70] Question: Liquidity and opportunistic buybacks - Management stated that while dividends are the primary method of returning cash, share repurchases are also considered [72] Question: Charter specifications and older vessels - Management acknowledged some flexibility from charters regarding older vessels, depending on market conditions [76] Question: Red Sea transit and charterer inquiries - Management indicated no current pressure from charterers to resume Red Sea transits, emphasizing the need for stability in the region [78]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For the full year 2024, group revenue increased by 6.7% to $8.5 billion, and adjusted EBITDA increased by 6.7% to $392 million, exceeding adjusted EBITDA guidance by $12 million [11][7] - Adjusted net income for the full year was $120.9 million, with adjusted diluted EPS increasing by 2.4% to $1.27 per share [11][27] - Net debt at the end of 2024 was $637 million, with net leverage at 1.6 times, indicating a strong financial position [12][10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fresh Fruit segment delivered adjusted EBITDA of $214.8 million for the full year, an increase of $5.9 million compared to 2023, driven by volume growth in bananas and plantains [12][13] - Diversified EMEA segment achieved adjusted EBITDA of $131.5 million for the full year, with like-for-like revenue growth of 4.4% [16][17] - Diversified Fresh Produce Americas segment reported a like-for-like revenue increase of 16.1%, with adjusted EBITDA increasing by 52.3% for the full year [32][33] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In North America, the Fresh Fruit segment saw good volume growth in bananas and plantains, while European markets benefited from high volumes and lower shipping costs [13][14] - The EMEA segment faced headwinds due to supply challenges and weather events, but anticipates continued revenue growth in 2025 [17][18] - The Diversified Americas segment performed well, particularly in the export business, with strong growth in cherries and grapes [19][33] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on capital allocation and managing invested capital, with strategic investments in expanding shipping capacity and improving operational performance [8][10] - There is an ongoing process to determine the best strategic alternative for the Fresh Vegetables business, which is expected to enhance long-term outcomes for stakeholders [20][21] - The company plans to maintain a baseline level of capital expenditure in 2025, while exploring development opportunities to drive further growth [41][42] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged challenges in 2025, including the impact of Tropical Storm Sara and geopolitical uncertainties affecting sourcing costs and supply chains [40][41] - The company aims for adjusted EBITDA in the range of $370 million to $380 million for 2025, reflecting a more normalized year compared to 2024 [41][38] - Management remains optimistic about the underlying fundamentals of the business and is focused on addressing challenges while capitalizing on growth opportunities [15][38] Other Important Information - The company declared a dividend of $0.08 for the fourth quarter, to be paid on April 3, 2025 [37] - Free cash flow from continuing operations was $180.3 million for the full year, benefiting from strong adjusted EBITDA performance and good working capital management [36] Q&A Session Summary Question: Could you unpack the EBITDA guidance and the factors affecting it? - Management indicated that the guidance reflects known headwinds, including the impact from Tropical Storm Sara and macroeconomic uncertainties, with expectations for a slower start to 2025 [45][49][54] Question: What mitigation strategies are in place regarding potential tariffs? - Management believes that the demand for fresh produce will remain strong, and they are prepared to adjust pricing and sourcing strategies if tariffs are implemented [56][58][60] Question: What is the company's approach to capital allocation moving forward? - Management emphasized a focus on leveraging while also considering targeted M&A opportunities, with ongoing internal development projects to enhance growth [65][67][71] Question: Can you provide insights on the profit weakness in the EMEA segment? - Management noted that while there are ups and downs across different markets, they see more opportunities than challenges in the EMEA segment [75][77] Question: Is there a risk of elasticity in pricing for high-value products like avocados? - Management expressed confidence that demand for avocados and other products will remain stable, despite potential tariff impacts [78][80]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - AerCap Holdings N.V. reported GAAP net income of $2.1 billion and adjusted net income of $2.3 billion for 2024, with adjusted EPS of $12.01, marking a record for the company [7][37] - The company generated $5.4 billion in operating cash flow for the year, excluding $651 million in gains on sale [8][37] - The leverage ratio at the end of the quarter was 2.35 to 1, which is below the stated target of 2.7 to 1 [20][40] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Basic lease rents for Q4 were $1.619 billion, an increase from $1.605 billion in Q3 [30] - Maintenance revenues for Q4 were $106 million, reflecting a $22 million amortization of maintenance rights [31] - The net gain on sale of assets reached a record $260 million in Q4, with a gain on sale margin of 43% [32][12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has $45 billion of contracted future lease cash flows, with over 40% expected to be received in the next three years [9] - The demand for aviation assets continues to grow, as evidenced by the record level of gain on sale and increased lease rates [11][12] - The company noted a strong operational performance and a supportive supply-demand dynamic in the aircraft leasing market [8][50] Company Strategy and Development Direction - AerCap plans to utilize strong cash flows to return capital to shareholders while also investing in organic growth and share repurchases [18][19] - The company announced a new $1 billion share repurchase program, bringing total buybacks to $5 billion over the last two years [10][23] - The strategy includes selling lower-priority assets for strong gains and reinvesting proceeds into growth opportunities [19][20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's outlook for 2025, expecting adjusted EPS in the range of $8.50 to $9.50, excluding gains on sale [7][49] - The CEO highlighted a continued shortage of aircraft and anticipated strong demand for used aircraft values [56][58] - Management noted that the company is well-positioned to capitalize on the current strong sales environment and robust demand for leasing [50][51] Other Important Information - The company maintained a strong liquidity position with total sources of liquidity at approximately $21 billion [39] - The effective tax rate for 2024 was 14.3%, with an increase expected in 2025 due to the global minimum tax [34][48] - AerCap's book value per share increased by 13% over the last twelve months, reaching $94.57 as of December 31 [41] Q&A Session Summary Question: Sales environment with OEM production - Management believes there will be a shortage of aircraft for years, despite future OEM production increases [56][58] Question: Elevated expenses in Q4 - Management indicated that expenses were slightly higher in Q4 but expected them to remain at similar levels in 2025 [60] Question: Recovery from Russia - The company reported a write-down of approximately $2.7 billion pretax, with recoveries of $1.3 billion in 2023 and $200 million in 2024 [66] Question: Credit rating benefits - Management noted that while they are currently rated BBB+, there is potential for an upgrade, which could positively impact net spreads [72] Question: EPS guidance and buyback impact - The EPS guidance of $8.50 does not include any additional buybacks beyond the announced $1 billion program [108] Question: Engine leasing business outlook - Management highlighted the unique position in the engine leasing market and the potential for growth in this area [95][106]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4 2024, net cash provided by operating activities before changes in working capital totaled approximately $185 million, more than triple the capital expenditures for the quarter [16] - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $203 million, with adjusted free cash flow of $125 million, driven by robust natural gas pricing and strong liquids production [16][18] - The company repurchased approximately 491,000 shares of common stock for about $80 million during Q4 2024, representing a significant return of capital to shareholders [21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The 2025 development program is expected to maintain flat total production while growing liquids production by 30% year over year [6][9] - In 2024, the company drilled 21 gross wells, primarily in the Utica, and completed 19 gross wells, including three SCOOP wells and 12 Utica dry gas wells [10] - The company anticipates that approximately 50% of total production will be liquids-rich in 2025, with liquids production expected to increase to between 18,000 and 20,500 barrels per day [9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The all-in realized price for Q4 2024 was $3.36 per Mcfe, a 0.57 premium to NYMEX Henry Hub index prices [18] - The company has downside protection covering roughly 50% of 2025 natural gas production at an average floor price of $3.62 per MMBtu [19] - The liquidity as of December 31, 2024, totaled $900 million, providing sufficient funds for future development needs [21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on enhancing hydrocarbon diversification by targeting lean condensate in the Utica and low-cost Marcellus condensate windows [7] - The 2025 capital expenditure is projected to be flat, in the range of $370 million to $395 million, with a focus on operational efficiencies and cost reductions [8] - The company plans to return substantially all 2025 adjusted free cash flow to shareholders through common stock repurchases, excluding discretionary acreage acquisitions [7][22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the natural gas pricing environment in 2025 and 2026, indicating a belief in improving macro conditions [20] - The company expects 2025 to be a transformative year for cash flow generation, with adjusted free cash flow potentially more than doubling compared to 2024 [21][24] - Management highlighted the importance of continuous operational improvements and optimizing asset development to maximize free cash flow generation [15][24] Other Important Information - The company achieved a 20% reduction in annual operated drilling and completion capital on a per foot basis compared to 2024, driven by operational efficiencies and service cost improvements [8] - The proved reserve base increased by approximately 6% when excluding the impact of pricing revisions, reflecting successful leasing efforts and operational efficiencies [22][23] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the sustainability of the liquids growth and its impact on potential acquisitions? - Management confirmed that the 30% liquids growth is sustainable and highlighted the flexibility to allocate resources between gas and liquids as needed [27][28][30] Question: How does the front-loaded CapEx program affect capital efficiencies? - Management indicated that a front-loaded capital program is conducive to driving capital efficiencies and maximizing cash flows throughout the year [36][37] Question: What is the outlook for future capital allocation given the potential for significant free cash flow? - Management stated that the framework for capital allocation has been effective, focusing on share repurchases and inventory additions while continuously assessing opportunities [38][40] Question: How does the Lake Seven pad inform future Utica development? - Management noted that the results from the Lake Seven pad will influence future development strategies, allowing for adjustments in production rates based on observed performance [44][45] Question: Can you clarify the cadence of capital allocation across different operational areas? - Management explained that capital allocation varies by area and emphasized the importance of developing assets responsibly while maintaining a corporate inventory perspective [48][50]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fourth quarter net sales were $444 million, a decline of 5% year-over-year or 3% lower on a constant currency basis [9][37] - Gross margins were 35.2% in the fourth quarter, impacted by manufacturing absorption, raw material cost increases, and customer production levels [11][40] - Adjusted EBITDA for the fourth quarter was $65 million, with a full year total of $311 million [12][43] - Operating cash flow for 2024 was $205 million, supporting capital allocation priorities including dividends and acquisitions [12][54] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Asia Pacific segment net sales increased approximately 5% year-over-year, driven by a 5% increase in sales volumes [44] - EMEA segment net sales decreased by 7% year-over-year, with a decline in sales volumes of approximately 4% [46] - Americas segment net sales declined by 8% year-over-year, impacted by lower selling prices and a 1% decline in total sales volumes [49] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Market conditions were persistently soft throughout 2024, with a low to mid single-digit decline in aggregate end markets [9][10] - The company expects end markets to grow approximately 1% to 2% in 2025, primarily in the second half of the year [31][81] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to return to growth, reduce complexity, and enhance shareholder value through disciplined capital deployment [17][30] - Focus on globalizing operations and aligning resources with faster-growing regions, including India and Southeast Asia [20][21] - Emphasis on customer intimacy and improving operational efficiencies to support organic growth [23][25] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the ability to deliver above-market performance despite challenging conditions [10][34] - Expectations for gross margins to be comparable to 2024 levels, with revenue, adjusted EBITDA, and earnings growth anticipated in 2025 [34][81] - The long-term fundamentals of the industry are viewed positively, with a focus on managing controllable factors while investing in capabilities [35][58] Other Important Information - The company completed two acquisitions in 2024 and recently acquired Chemical Solutions & Innovations in South Africa [29][56] - A new $20 million cost action plan has been identified, expected to drive approximately $15 million in savings [27][58] Q&A Session Summary Question: Gross margin performance in Q4 and future targets - Management indicated that the historical gross margin target of 37% to 38% is still relevant, with expectations for recovery in Q1 [65][68] Question: Performance in Asia Pacific and growth opportunities - Asia Pacific's success is attributed to new business wins, with plans to replicate this success in other regions [71][76] Question: Expectations for revenue and EBITDA growth in 2025 - Management anticipates gradual market improvement, with a focus on new business gains and a healthy pipeline [80][84] Question: Raw materials expectations for 2025 - Stability in raw materials is expected, with no significant volatility anticipated [90] Question: Volume trends in the Americas - Improvement is expected in the second half of 2025, following a decline in the first half [92] Question: Impact of new capacity coming online - New capacity is expected across Asia and the US, contributing to growth [95][96] Question: Cost savings initiatives and SG&A expectations - Cost savings are primarily targeting SG&A, with expectations for SG&A to be flat to modestly up in 2025 [106][107] Question: Details on the acquisition of CSI - CSI enhances the portfolio in South Africa, supporting growth in the region [109] Question: Capital allocation priorities - The focus remains on investing in the business through M&A and organic growth, with share repurchases considered as opportunities arise [112]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a normalized FFO of $0.27 per diluted share and an FFO of $0.29 per diluted share for Q4 2024, with a full year FFO of $1.02 and normalized FFO of $1.29 per diluted share [10][38] - The overall portfolio occupancy at the end of Q4 stood at 96%, slightly increasing compared to the prior quarter [42] - The company achieved same-store NOI growth of $1.3 million at 3.6% on a GAAP basis [41] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The retail segment achieved an 11.1% GAAP releasing spread, while the office segment achieved an 18.7% GAAP releasing spread [39] - The multi-family portfolio reported a combined trade-out spread of negative 0.8% for the quarter, with renewal spreads remaining strong at 4.7% [40] - The construction management segment posted $2.1 million of gross profit, with expectations to return closer to historical levels in the short term [42] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The office assets in mixed-use environments commanded around a 15% premium above competing central business districts [22] - The retail portfolio had a strong performance with 95% occupancy, executing new leases covering approximately 195,000 square feet [27] - The multi-family portfolio operated at 95.3% occupancy, with rent growth in markets such as Baltimore and Virginia Beach [33] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains committed to improving income streams and balance sheet quality, focusing on sustainable growth and financial strength [9] - The strategy includes recycling stabilized assets and capitalizing on better long-term opportunities [14] - The company is focused on strengthening its balance sheet by reducing leverage and enhancing financial flexibility [18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expects 2025 to be the trough year for earnings, with anticipated growth in 2026 and beyond as developments stabilize [90] - The company is actively managing challenges related to construction delivery delays and increased interest expenses [46] - Management remains confident in the long-term value of the portfolio and the potential for redevelopment opportunities [36] Other Important Information - The company disposed of two non-core retail assets at a blended cap rate in the low 6% range, achieving an $82 million aggregate sales price [15] - The company successfully executed a $109 million common equity offering to reduce leverage and position for future growth [19] - The company has hedged 100% of its variable rate debt exposure to ensure stability in interest expenses [44] Q&A Session Summary Question: What does the market look like going forward on the Mez side? - Management noted inquiries about financing deals and the pressure in the lending market has created a gap that needs to be filled [52][54] Question: Any new investments need to be a loan to own rather than just a straight loan? - Management indicated that all options are possible, but the focus is on risk-adjusted returns [57][58] Question: Can you talk about the occupancy of your apartment assets in the home market? - Management attributed lower occupancy to price point issues and new developments in the broader market, but expressed confidence in maintaining market rents [59][60] Question: Can you comment on the dilution from recent equity raises and asset sales? - Management stated that the equity raise in September resulted in roughly 5 cents worth of dilution [62][65] Question: How is the company thinking about the longer-term play with T. Rowe headquarters? - Management is monitoring the market and believes it is not the right time to sell the asset at a discount [66][68] Question: Can you provide details on Southgates First occupancy decline? - Management explained the decline was related to specific tenants and expressed optimism about backfill negotiations [73][74] Question: Do you have any active properties that you are marketing on the retail side? - Management mentioned receiving unsolicited activity for retail properties and is open to capital recycling opportunities [80][81]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Q4 2024 revenue was $945.6 million, an increase of 5.4% compared to 2023, with organic revenue up 3.5% due to favorable price and volume [17][18] - Adjusted earnings per share for Q4 was $1.86, an increase of 10.7% year-over-year [19] - Full year 2024 available cash flow was $582.9 million, a 12.9% increase from the previous year [20][29] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Americas segment revenue was $750 million, up 6.4% reported and 4.6% organically, with residential business up high-single-digits [22][23] - International segment revenue was $195.6 million, up 1.5% reported but down 0.7% organically, with acquisitions providing a positive impact [27][28] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The institutional markets are showing stable growth, supported by healthy municipal bond issuance [34] - The company anticipates total revenue growth of 1% to 3% for 2025, with organic growth of 1.5% to 3.5% [35][36] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Allegion is focused on capital deployment, returning cash to shareholders, and pursuing accretive acquisitions [8][12] - The company plans to continue investing in R&D and product launches to drive organic growth [10][14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about trends in the Americas non-residential business and stable growth in key market segments [9][33] - The outlook for 2025 includes expectations for continued price realization and margin expansion, despite headwinds from foreign currency [36][39] Other Important Information - Allegion executed M&A totaling $137 million in 2024, with plans for further acquisitions in 2025 [12][14] - The company announced its 11th consecutive dividend increase, indicating a commitment to returning value to shareholders [15] Q&A Session Summary Question: Price-cost productivity investment equation - Management clarified that the pricing dynamics were affected by timing of rebate accruals, not core pricing [46][56] Question: Sourcing of steel and aluminum - Management indicated that the impact of steel and aluminum tariffs is minimal, as most sourcing is domestic [58][59] Question: Adjusted operating margin guidance for 2025 - Management expects margin expansion in 2025, with the Americas leading this growth [63][66] Question: International growth guidance and China exit - Management noted that the revenue from China was minimal, and the exit would not significantly impact overall growth [76][78] Question: Non-residential business outlook - Management highlighted positive quoting activity and project work in the non-residential sector, indicating a favorable start to 2025 [82][84] Question: Organic sales outlook for non-residential - Management expects growth in both commercial and institutional markets, with a focus on education and healthcare [94][96] Question: Tariff pricing mitigation actions - Management stated that pricing actions would be evaluated once tariffs are implemented, with a mix of pricing strategies anticipated [99][100] Question: Government exposure within institutional markets - Management reassured that most project work is funded by local sources, insulating them from federal funding uncertainties [110]