Core Insights - Johnson Controls International plc reported fiscal Q1 2026 GAAP earnings per share (EPS) of $0.90, with adjusted EPS at $0.89, reflecting a strong start to the year with solid revenue growth and margin expansion [2][4][9] - Total sales for Q1 increased by 7% to $5.8 billion, with organic sales growth of 6% [2][9] - The company experienced a significant order growth of nearly 40%, indicating strong customer demand in core markets [4][9] Financial Performance - GAAP net income from continuing operations attributable to Johnson Controls was $555 million, while adjusted net income was $547 million [3][9] - Cash provided by operating activities was $611 million, with free cash flow at $531 million and adjusted free cash flow at $428 million [19][42] - The company paid dividends totaling $245 million and completed the sale of its ADT Mexico Security business for net proceeds of $207 million, recognizing a pre-tax gain of $70 million [19] Segment Results - **Americas**: Sales reached $3.8 billion, a 6% increase year-over-year, with a gross margin of $1.375 billion [7][10] - **EMEA**: Sales increased by 9% to $1.3 billion, with a gross margin of $448 million and a segment EBITA margin of 12.5% [10][11] - **APAC**: Sales grew by 8% to $693 million, with a segment EBITA margin of 16.9%, reflecting strong performance in products and systems [12] Orders and Backlog - Excluding M&A and adjusted for foreign currency, orders increased by 56% year-over-year, with a backlog of $13.3 billion, up 22% year-over-year [8][9] - The overall backlog increased to $18.2 billion, reflecting a 20% organic growth year-over-year [9] Corporate Expenses - Corporate expenses decreased to $156 million from $171 million year-over-year, with adjusted corporate expenses at $107 million [13][19] Guidance and Future Outlook - The company provided guidance for fiscal 2026, indicating expectations for continued organic revenue growth and operating leverage improvements [20][15]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported fourth quarter adjusted earnings per share of $0.87 and full year adjusted earnings per share of $3.43 [5] - Total segment operating profit was $821 million for the fourth quarter and $3.2 billion for the full year [5] - The trailing fourth quarter adjusted return on invested capital (ROIC) was 6.3% [5] - Cash flow from operations before working capital changes was $2.7 billion for 2025, with a $1.5 billion cash flow benefit from inventory reduction [5][22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Ag Services and Oilseeds (AS&O) segment operating profit for the fourth quarter was $444 million, down 31% year-over-year, and $1.6 billion for the full year, down 34% [14] - The Carbohydrate Solutions segment operating profit was $299 million for the fourth quarter, down 6% year-over-year, and $1.2 billion for the full year, down 12% [17] - The Nutrition segment revenues were $1.8 billion for the fourth quarter, remaining flat year-over-year, with human nutrition revenue increasing by 5% and animal nutrition revenue decreasing by 4% [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted that the operating environment throughout 2025 was challenging, but there are expectations for a more constructive market environment in 2026 due to improved trade relations with China and anticipated clarity in U.S. biofuel policy [11][12] - The company expects segment operating profit for Carbohydrate Solutions to remain relatively flat, with lower starches and sweeteners volumes offset by higher ethanol margins [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on five key growth areas: enhanced nutrition, biotics, biosolutions, precision fermentation, and decarbonization [9] - The company executed over 20 projects as part of portfolio optimization and simplification initiatives, achieving approximately $200 million in cost savings [8] - The company aims to achieve targeted aggregate cost savings of $500-$750 million over three to five years, which began in 2025 [27] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the future, highlighting the potential for growth driven by improved market conditions and strategic initiatives [11][12] - The outlook for adjusted EPS in 2026 is projected to be between $3.60 and $4.25, reflecting growth over 2025 [12][23] Other Important Information - The company paid its 376th consecutive quarterly dividend [6] - The joint venture with Alltech has commenced operations, although it is not expected to have a material impact on nutrition operating profit in 2026 [25] Q&A Session Summary Question: Comments on the RVO and its impact on operating rates - Management acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the Renewable Volume Obligation (RVO) and its timing, but expressed confidence in positive outcomes once clarity is achieved [33][34] Question: Update on Nutrition segment performance and customer recovery - Management noted strong performance in flavors and biotics, with ongoing efforts to regain market share lost during the Decatur East plant downtime [41][42] Question: Insights on crush margins and demand for Starches and Sweeteners - Management indicated that the softness in demand is influenced by consumer behavior changes and pricing pressures, but they are focused on offsetting these trends [66][67] Question: Clarification on corporate expenses and tax rates - Management provided guidance on an expected effective tax rate between 18% and 20% and noted that corporate costs would increase due to reinvestment in R&D and digital platforms [72] Question: Discussion on the impact of RVO on future earnings - Management emphasized that multiple factors will influence future earnings, including RVO clarity, consumer demand, and operational efficiency [80][81]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported fourth quarter adjusted earnings per share of $0.87 and full-year adjusted earnings per share of $3.43, with total segment operating profit of $821 million for the fourth quarter and $3.2 billion for the full year [5][12] - The trailing fourth quarter adjusted return on invested capital (ROIC) was 6.3%, and cash flow from operations before working capital changes was $2.7 billion for 2025 [5][22] - The company achieved approximately $200 million in cost savings through portfolio optimization and simplification initiatives [8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Ag Services and Oilseeds (AS&O) segment operating profit for the fourth quarter was $444 million, down 31% year-over-year, and for the full year, it was $1.6 billion, a decrease of 34% compared to 2024 [14] - The Carbohydrate Solutions segment operating profit for the fourth quarter was $299 million, down 6% year-over-year, and for the full year, it was $1.2 billion, down 12% compared to 2024 [18] - The Nutrition segment revenues were $1.8 billion for the fourth quarter, remaining relatively flat year-over-year, with human nutrition revenue increasing by 5% and animal nutrition revenue decreasing by 4% [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted that the operating environment throughout 2025 was challenging, but improvements in global trade relations and U.S. biofuel policy clarity are expected to support a more constructive market environment in 2026 [11][12] - The company anticipates positive economic opportunities for the industry and American farmers, which should drive additional long-term investments [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on five key growth areas: enhanced nutrition, biotics, biosolutions, precision fermentation, and decarbonization, each with different growth profiles and timelines for value creation [9][10] - The company aims to optimize its results in what is expected to be a more constructive operating environment, with a focus on disciplined capital allocation and cost savings [30] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the future, highlighting the importance of timing regarding U.S. biofuel policy clarity and its potential positive impact on operations [33][34] - The company expects adjusted EPS for 2026 to be in the range of $3.60-$4.25, reflecting growth over 2025 [12][27] Other Important Information - The company paid its 376th consecutive quarterly dividend during the fourth quarter [6] - The company has made significant progress in improving working capital efficiency, realizing a $1.5 billion cash flow benefit from inventory reduction [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Comments on the RVO and its impact on operating rates - Management acknowledged the difficulty in providing guidance due to external factors but expressed optimism about the positive impact of RVO clarity on operating rates and margins [33][34] Question: Update on Nutrition segment performance and customer recovery - Management clarified that while the Nutrition segment faced challenges, there was strong performance in flavors and a recovery in specialty ingredients, with ongoing efforts to regain market share [41][42] Question: Insights on crush margins and demand - Management indicated that the crush margins are influenced by various factors, including RVO policy and consumer demand, and emphasized the need for careful monitoring of market conditions [58][60] Question: Discussion on Starches and Sweeteners demand - Management noted that demand softness is attributed to various factors, including consumer behavior changes and pricing pressures, but emphasized efforts to offset these challenges [65][66]

This story was originally published on ESG Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily ESG Dive newsletter. Dive Brief: The Science Based Targets initiative released a revised draft net-zero standard for the automotive industry on Tuesday, redefining low-emissions vehicles and making updates to better align it with the Corporate Net-Zero Standard update that’s in development. SBTi released a first draft of the auto sector standard last June for public consultation, and the late ...

Core Viewpoint - Brunswick Exploration Inc. has staked new high-priority lithium targets in Eastern Greenland, reinforcing its position as the only company exploring for lithium in the region and controlling the only two known lithium discoveries in Greenland [1][2]. Company Developments - The newly staked Clavering and Hudson Land licence comprises five blocks, covering an area of 13,862 hectares, located approximately 360 kilometers north of Ittoqqortoormiit [3][4]. - The company has announced an Inferred Resource of 52.2 million tonnes (Mt) grading 1.08% lithium oxide (Li2O) at its Mirage project, which is one of the largest undeveloped hard-rock lithium resources in the Americas [2][11]. - Drilling is expected to begin shortly at the Anatacau project, and a small drill program at the Nuuk Lithium project is anticipated to start in late Q3 2026 [2][7]. Geological Insights - The licence area hosts numerous pegmatite outcrops, some extending to kilometric scale, providing a robust geological framework for lithium-cesium-tantalum (LCT) pegmatite systems [4]. - Historical regional stream-sediment surveys have identified exceptionally high rubidium (Rb) values in the new claims, indicating the potential for evolved pegmatite systems that host lithium mineralization [5]. Exploration Plans - The company plans to conduct field activities in the Clavering and Hudson Land area in Q3 2026, supported by helicopter, lasting approximately two weeks [7]. - Prospecting activities are expected to take place at Clavering, Hudson Land, and the Hinks Land licence during the summer [2][7].

Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements – that is, statements related to future events that by their nature address matters that are, to different degrees, uncertain, such as statements about GE Vernova's expected future business and financial performance and financial condition following the closing of the Prolec GE acquisition, the impact of such acquisition and the results it may generate or produce, and the timing of such impact and results, and often contain wo ...

Core Insights - Johnson Controls is showcasing the YORK YK-HT two-stage economized centrifugal chiller, designed for data centers and large industrial applications, at AHR Expo 2026 in Las Vegas [1] Group 1: Product Features - The YK-HT chiller operates with condenser leaving fluid temperatures up to 165°F and can achieve up to 110°F of lift, supporting efficient closed-loop heat rejection and enabling heat pump and heat recovery applications [2][7] - The system can offset more than 35 MMBtu per hour, equivalent to the heating demand of approximately 350 single-family homes per hour, while reducing carbon emissions and energy costs [2] - The chiller can produce 44°F chilled water and 140°F hot water simultaneously, exceeding ASHRAE efficiency requirements and eliminating the need for cascaded systems [4] Group 2: Environmental Impact - The YK-HT eliminates the annual cooling tower water consumption of approximately 8 to 9 million gallons for a typical 2,000-ton chiller, making it suitable for water-constrained environments [3] - The enhanced lift capability allows for a 60% reduction in dry coolers and a noise reduction of up to 20 dBA, addressing noise limits in large data centers [3] Group 3: Design and Installation Benefits - The compact single driveline design reduces failure points by 50% and has a footprint nearly 30% smaller than most alternatives, facilitating easier retrofits into existing spaces [4][7] - The chiller is designed to simplify installation and service, which is critical amid skilled labor shortages [4] Group 4: Manufacturing and Distribution - The YK-HT chillers will be manufactured in San Antonio, Texas, and Wuxi, China, with plans for global distribution supported by dedicated service teams [5]

Core Insights - Diana Shipping repurchased approximately 11.5 million common shares for a total of $22.9 million and became a strategic partner in new LPG vessels during 2025 [1][6] - The company reported carrying over 17.5 million tons and employing more than 950 people in various roles during the first nine months of 2025 [2] - Diana Shipping has a formal decarbonization plan that has improved fleet efficiency by around 15% and is renewing its fleet with two methanol dual-fuel vessels expected to be delivered by early 2028 [4][17] Financial Performance - Management locked in about 71% of remaining 2026 ownership days with average fixed revenues of approximately $17,700 per day, reporting cash reserves of $133 million [5][7] - The company’s cash break-even point is estimated at around $16,800 per day, with projected average revenues of $17,200 per day for 2026 [14] - Diana Shipping's loan-to-value ratio increased from 43% to 53% year-over-year, but management indicated strong visibility on deleveraging due to a favorable debt profile [13] Corporate Actions - Diana Shipping acquired a 14.8% stake in Genco Shipping & Trading and proposed an all-cash offer of $20.60 per share for the remaining shares, which was rejected by Genco's board [6][8] - The company plans to nominate six independent directors to Genco's board for the 2026 annual meeting, believing that a combination would enhance operational leverage [9] Market Outlook - The market outlook for 2026 anticipates global GDP growth of about 3.3%, with controlled fleet growth and a focus on iron ore and bauxite demand supporting Capesize vessels [16] - The company avoids operations in conflict-prone regions like the Red Sea and Black Sea, maintaining a disciplined chartering strategy to reduce risk [11][16] Sustainability and ESG Initiatives - Diana Shipping has published six ESG reports since 2019 and has initiated external assurance for its sustainability practices [18] - The company’s decarbonization strategy includes operational measures and fleet renewal to enhance efficiency and reduce emissions [17]

Industry Overview - The Zacks Alternate Energy- Other industry is gaining importance as countries work to reduce fossil-fuel dependence and curb emissions in the power sector [1] - Fuel-cell systems are emerging as a promising solution, generating electricity through a hydrogen-oxygen reaction that produces only water and heat, offering an efficient alternative to combustion-based power sources [1] Company Focus: Bloom Energy Corporation (BE) - Bloom Energy utilizes solid-oxide fuel cell technology to provide clean, reliable power through its Energy Server platform, which minimizes grid losses and scales from kilowatts to megawatts [3] - The company is well positioned for sustained revenue growth and margin expansion due to rising demand for decarbonization, grid resilience, and hydrogen solutions [3] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Bloom Energy's earnings per share in 2026 has increased year-over-year by 78.75%, with long-term earnings growth projected at 25% [6] - Bloom Energy's current return on equity (ROE) is 29.39%, indicating stronger capital efficiency compared to its competitor [12] - Over the past six months, Bloom Energy's stock has soared 316%, benefiting from rising demand for clean power [13] Company Focus: Plug Power Inc. (PLUG) - Plug Power provides clean energy through hydrogen fuel cell technology, enhancing efficiency in material-handling equipment with fast refueling and longer run times [4] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Plug Power's earnings per share in 2026 has increased year-over-year by 55.7% [7] - Plug Power's current ROE is negative at -105.98%, highlighting challenges in capital efficiency [12] - Despite near-term profitability and execution hurdles, Plug Power is positioned to capitalize on logistics decarbonization and clean energy adoption [4] Financial Metrics Comparison - Bloom Energy's debt-to-capital ratio stands at 66.43%, significantly higher than Plug Power's 19.05%, indicating a greater reliance on debt for operations [10] - The price-to-sales ratio for Bloom Energy is 13.37X, while for Plug Power it is 3.77X, suggesting that investors are willing to pay more for Bloom Energy's sales [11] Summary of Investment Potential - Both Bloom Energy and Plug Power are investing in research and utilizing fuel cell technology to provide reliable power [16] - Bloom Energy's stronger earnings estimates, higher ROE, and solid price performance make it a more attractive investment compared to Plug Power, despite both companies currently holding a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold) [16]

Industry Overview - The Zacks Utility-Electric Power industry presents an attractive investment case due to stable cash flows and predictable earnings from regulated business models [1] - The industry is transforming with a global push for decarbonization, leading to increased investments in renewables like solar, wind, and battery storage [2] Company Analysis: Vistra Corp. (VST) - Vistra offers a strong investment case with a diversified generation mix, including natural gas, nuclear, solar, and battery storage, providing stable, carbon-free baseload power [4] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Vistra's earnings per share indicates a year-over-year increase of 67.71% for 2026, with long-term growth projected at 18.89% [7][11] - Vistra's return on equity (ROE) is 64.04%, significantly higher than the industry average of 10.7% [11][13] - Vistra is trading at a lower P/E of 18.3X compared to PEG's 18.68X, indicating better value [11][15] Company Analysis: Public Service Enterprise Group Inc. (PEG) - Public Service Enterprise Group presents a solid investment case with regulated utility operations and a strong carbon-free nuclear portfolio [5] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for PEG's earnings per share implies a year-over-year increase of 8.64% for 2026, with long-term growth projected at 7.05% [10] - PEG's debt-to-capital ratio is 57.88%, lower than Vistra's 75.38%, indicating a more conservative approach to financing [18] Dividend Analysis - PEG has a dividend yield of 3.09%, significantly higher than Vistra's 0.55% and the S&P 500's 1.36%, reflecting stronger cash flow and financial health [20] Summary Comparison - Both Vistra and Public Service Enterprise Group are effectively serving customers and expanding clean power generation assets [21] - Vistra has an edge due to stronger earnings estimates, cheaper valuation, and better ROE, despite PEG's lower debt levels [21]