Core Viewpoint - This week, gold prices experienced significant volatility, largely influenced by President Trump's fluctuating criticisms of Federal Reserve Chairman Powell, with Trump warning that the U.S. economy could slow down unless interest rates are lowered immediately [1] Group 1: Gold Price Movements - Spot gold fell nearly 1% on Friday, closing at 3316.26, despite ending the week above 3300, indicating a week of dramatic price swings with intraday fluctuations nearing 100 dollars [1] - Gold prices surged above 3500 due to heightened risk aversion amid trade tensions, but dropped to around 3260 after Trump softened his stance on tariffs, leading investors to take profits [1] - Year-to-date, gold has risen over 25%, reflecting ongoing market uncertainty and volatility [1] Group 2: Market Analysis and Predictions - Daniel Ghali, a commodity strategist at TD Securities, noted that the easing of tariff tensions negatively impacted gold prices, yet there has not been a large-scale liquidation of positions, with investors continuing to buy on dips [1] - The current weekly gold chart shows a doji candlestick pattern, indicating indecision, with expectations of high volatility continuing [1] - Short-term resistance levels are identified at 3375 and 3353, while support is seen around 3305, suggesting that the market remains in a bearish trend despite a longer-term bullish outlook [1]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total company revenues increased by 4% to $195.4 million, and adjusted EBITDA increased by 3% to $74.5 million compared to the previous year [5][14] - Mobile Modular's adjusted EBITDA increased by 10% to $47.6 million, with total revenues rising by 3% to $131.9 million [14] - Average fleet utilization improved to 74.6% from 78.7% a year ago, while first-quarter monthly revenue per unit on rent increased by 8% to $831 [15][18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Mobile Modular's rental revenues grew by 3%, with both commercial and education rentals showing positive trends [5] - Portable Storage rental revenues declined by 13% to $16.1 million, reflecting ongoing softness in commercial construction [16] - TRS RenTelco's rental revenues increased slightly to $25.5 million, marking the first quarterly increase since Q1 2023 [17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Architectural Billing Index and other macro indicators indicate some weakness and project delays in construction-related demand [6] - The company noted that while quote activity was up, new rental bookings were below the prior year due to a softer construction market [6][10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on modular business growth and aims to be a solutions provider to customers, with ongoing efforts to increase revenue per unit [11][12] - Geographic expansion is a priority, with investments in infrastructure expected to yield results in future years [77] - The company has a robust M&A pipeline, indicating plans for strategic acquisitions to enhance rental revenues and offerings [86] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism for the second half of the year, citing potential delays in project starts due to economic uncertainty [10][20] - The impact of tariffs is expected to be limited, with most cost increases manageable and prior purchases mitigating exposure [9][21] - Overall, the company anticipates a solid performance in Q2, but acknowledges that economic uncertainty could affect project initiation and rental revenues in H2 [22][45] Other Important Information - Selling and administrative expenses increased by 1% to $50.9 million, while interest expenses decreased by $4.5 million due to lower average interest rates [18] - The company paid $12 million in dividends and reduced debt by $31 million during the quarter [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the order flow indications for education rentals? - Bookings were light in Q1, but April has shown an increase in orders, with expectations for a good year in education [27][28] Question: How are larger and smaller project sizes performing in Mobile Modular? - Larger projects are solid, while smaller projects show more uncertainty, with good activity levels but hesitancy from customers [30][31] Question: What is the outlook for TRS RenTelco's demand trends? - Demand has improved, particularly in the semiconductor and computer sectors, with delayed projects starting to materialize [39][40] Question: Why was guidance slightly trimmed? - The adjustment reflects increased caution regarding customer decision-making and potential project delays due to economic uncertainty [41][45] Question: How is the company managing its portable storage units? - The company has a high-quality fleet and is focused on utilizing existing units rather than urgent sales, with no immediate need for action [55][58] Question: What is the company's approach to M&A and talent acquisition? - The company is actively pursuing M&A opportunities and has successfully resumed hiring, finding quality candidates readily available [86][88]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rising trend of individuals investing heavily in gold, often through loans and mortgages, driven by a speculative mindset and a belief in the long-term value of gold despite the inherent risks involved [1][8]. Group 1: Investment Behavior - Individuals like Zhang Qiang and Xiao Liang are engaging in significant gold purchases, with Zhang investing 30 million in gold through loans, while Xiao invested 50 million, with a substantial portion financed through borrowing [3][5]. - The gold price has seen substantial increases, with a 28% rise in 2024 and a 23% increase from January 2025 to April 2025, prompting many to speculate on further gains [3][11]. - Many investors express a sense of control over their risks, believing that their financial situations allow them to manage the potential downsides of their investments [7][10]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - The recent surge in gold prices is attributed to global economic uncertainties, including high tariffs and inflation concerns in the U.S., which have led to increased demand for gold as a safe-haven asset [11][12]. - The article highlights the volatility of the gold market, with Zhang experiencing a significant drop in gold prices shortly after his purchase, illustrating the unpredictable nature of such investments [9][12]. - Experts warn that the current market conditions are complex, and impulsive investments based on short-term price movements can lead to severe financial consequences for investors [12].