Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For the full year 2025, the company achieved net revenues of $5.2 billion, an increase of 12% year-over-year [6][24] - Solutions revenue grew 11% to $4 billion, representing 76% of total net revenue [23] - Annual operating income was $2.9 billion, up 16%, with diluted EPS growth of 24% [6][24] - Fourth quarter net revenue was $1.4 billion, up 13% year-over-year, with solutions revenue of $1.1 billion, up 12% [7][24] - Operating expenses for the fourth quarter were $609 million, up 8% year-over-year, leading to an operating margin of 56% [7][36] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Capital access platforms delivered quarterly revenue of $572 million, up 12%, with annual revenue of $2.1 billion, up 10% [25] - Index revenue increased by 23% in the fourth quarter, with net inflows of $99 billion over the last 12 months [26] - Financial technology revenue in the quarter was $498 million, up 12%, with annual revenue of $1.85 billion, up 11% [29] - Market services achieved record annual net revenue of $1.2 billion, up 17% year-over-year [19][32] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company secured three of the five top IPOs of 2025, including the largest IPO of the year, Medline [11] - The Nordic markets welcomed the largest IPO in Europe, Verisure, contributing to strong performance in the region [11] - The index franchise achieved record average AUM, with ETP AUM reaching $882 billion, an all-time high [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company focuses on three strategic pillars: integrate, innovate, and accelerate, which have driven strong results [8] - Plans to launch 23x5 trading in the Nasdaq Stock Market in the second half of 2026, subject to regulatory approval [9] - The company aims to leverage AI across its business and has begun rolling out new AI-enabled products [8][9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to build on its strong foundation and deliver durable growth in 2026 [21] - The company sees signs of accelerating capital markets activity, supported by recent Fed cuts and a healthy pipeline of late-stage private companies [12] - Management highlighted the importance of managing risk and advancing market structure as key industry priorities [20] Other Important Information - The company generated free cash flow of approximately $2.2 billion in 2025, with a conversion ratio of 109% [37] - The company paid dividends totaling $601 million in 2025 and repurchased 7.2 million shares for $616 million [38] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expectations for expanded options expirations and market volumes - Management noted that expanded options expirations provide clients with more choices for managing risk and are expected to drive market volumes [39][40] Question: Growth in equity options volumes and structural shifts - Management indicated that growth in equity options volumes is driven by a broadening investor base and increased engagement from both retail and institutional investors [42][44] Question: Pipeline and pace expectations for the data and listing segment - Management highlighted momentum in new issuances and active dialogue with late-stage private companies looking to go public, with expectations for increased activity in 2026 [45][46] Question: Outlook for financial crime management growth - Management discussed the variability in revenue due to implementation timing for enterprise deals but expressed optimism about the pipeline of opportunities in 2026 [47][49] Question: Nasdaq's ambitions in the proxy market - Management emphasized the focus on policy reform and modernization of proxy infrastructure to streamline processes for public companies [58] Question: Tokenization of equity securities - Management explained that the goal is to integrate tokenization with existing infrastructure while ensuring investor protection and issuer choice [60][62]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4 2025, revenue reached $3.65 billion, a 44% increase year-over-year, exceeding guidance [8][9] - Adjusted EPS for the quarter was $1.89, up 70% from the previous year [9] - Full-year revenue for 2025 was $12.4 billion, representing a 28% growth, while adjusted EPS was $6.05, a 56% increase [5][6] - Adjusted operating margin for Q4 was 7.7%, marking the strongest performance in company history [5][9] - Adjusted ROIC was 43%, up 14 percentage points compared to the prior year [10] Business Segment Data and Key Metrics Changes - ATS segment revenue was $795 million, a 1% decline, while CCS segment revenue was $2.86 billion, up 64% [10] - Communications end market revenue increased by 79%, driven by demand for 800G networking switches [11] - Enterprise end market revenue grew by 33%, supported by AI/ML compute programs [11] - ATS segment margin improved to 5.3%, while CCS segment margin was 8.4% [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The CCS segment accounted for 78% of total company revenue in Q4 [10] - Three customers accounted for 36%, 15%, and 12% of total revenue in Q4 [12] - Inventory balance at the end of Q4 was $2.19 billion, a sequential increase of $141 million [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to increase capital expenditures to approximately $1 billion in 2026 to support growth [14][15] - Investments will focus on expanding capacity in the U.S. and Thailand to meet customer demand [16][17] - The company aims to align its global footprint with customer capacity roadmaps, particularly in data center infrastructure and AI capabilities [15][18] - The outlook for 2026 revenue is raised to $17 billion, with adjusted EPS expected to be $8.75, reflecting strong demand [23][24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the 2026 outlook, citing strong customer demand and a robust pipeline of growth opportunities [23][25] - The company anticipates continued growth in the CCS segment, driven by hyperscaler demand for networking technologies [26][27] - Management acknowledged macro uncertainties but emphasized a strong demand outlook [35][39] Other Important Information - The company generated $156 million in free cash flow in Q4, totaling $458 million for the year [13] - The gross debt to non-GAAP trailing twelve-month Adjusted EBITDA leverage ratio improved to 0.7 turns [19] - The company repurchased approximately 132,000 shares for $36 million during the quarter [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on revenue and EPS guidance for fiscal 2026 - Management confirmed confidence in the 2026 outlook, noting customer forecasts exceed guidance [34] Question: Concerns about funding for future AI-related projects - Management stated that the build-out is based on booked business, with minimal risk of programs not materializing [37] Question: CapEx investment and its impact on revenue growth - Management indicated that current investments are based on booked business and will support growth into 2027 [47] Question: Margin trajectory with enterprise growth - Management expects strong operating leverage and does not foresee significant margin compression despite enterprise growth [55] Question: Supply chain and inflation impact on margins - Management is comfortable with the supply chain and does not anticipate significant margin compression from inflation [104]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Ameriprise reported a strong fourth quarter with adjusted operating revenue growing 10% to $4.9 billion, driven by strong organic client flows and markets [11] - Earnings increased 10% to over $1 billion, with earnings per share rising 16% to $10.83 [11] - Return on equity reached a record high of 53.2%, up over 100 basis points [11][12] - Assets under management, administration, and advisement grew to $1.7 trillion, up 11% year-over-year [12][23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Wealth management adjusted operating net revenues increased 12% to $3.2 billion, benefiting from higher client assets and activity levels [25] - The RAP business saw assets increase 17% to a record high of $670 billion, with net inflows of $12.1 billion in the quarter [23][14] - Transactional activity increased 5% year-over-year, primarily from growth in annuity products and brokerage [24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total client assets reached a new record of $1.2 trillion at year-end, up 13% from focused actions to drive flows and positive markets [13] - Total client inflows were $13.3 billion, up 18%, marking one of the best quarters for flows [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on investing in technology, digital capabilities, AI, and cloud infrastructure to enhance client and advisor experiences [12] - Ameriprise is leveraging its diversified business model and disciplined management to sustain strong financial performance [5] - The firm aims to continue innovating and transforming its market approach while maintaining a strong capital return strategy [21][31] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted a fluid operating environment with elevated inflation and signs of softening in the labor market, but remains optimistic about the company's resilience [5] - The company is well-positioned for future challenges, with a strong mix of revenue streams and effective expense management [6] - Management expressed confidence in maintaining strong organic growth and advisor productivity moving into 2026 [34][39] Other Important Information - Ameriprise was recognized as one of America's Most Iconic Companies by TIME and included in the Wall Street Journal's list of best-managed companies for 2025 [21][22] - The company returned over 100% of operating earnings to shareholders in the fourth quarter, with a total capital return for the year of nearly 90% [20][31] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you help reconcile the acceleration in net new flows with the lower distribution expense ratio? - Management noted strong flows in Q4 were driven by organic growth and good retention, with distribution expenses in line with revenue growth [33][34] Question: What should we expect for organic growth and distribution expenses in 2026? - Management feels confident about organic growth and expects distribution expenses to remain within comfortable ranges [34][36] Question: Can you provide more color on the strong net new assets in wealth management? - Management acknowledged seasonality but emphasized strong fundamentals and a solid pipeline for recruiting experienced advisors [41][39] Question: What is the outlook for the buyback and the use of excess capital? - Management indicated a commitment to returning capital to shareholders, with a target range of 85%-90% for capital return [40][31] Question: How does the company manage risks associated with consolidation in the banking channel? - Management expressed confidence in the partnership with Comerica and the opportunities presented by consolidation in the financial institutions business [45][46]

Core Insights - Public Storage (PSA) is recognized as one of the most profitable stocks over the last 20 years, highlighting its strong performance in the market [1] Company Overview - Public Storage (NYSE:PSA) is the largest self-storage owner and operator in the U.S., with thousands of facilities across the United States and Europe. The company focuses on acquiring, developing, owning, and managing self-storage properties, generating stable rental income, and providing storage solutions for both individuals and businesses [4] Analyst Ratings and Price Targets - Truist Securities has raised its price target on PSA to $317 from $315 while maintaining a Buy rating, reflecting an optimistic outlook for the REIT sector as fundamentals improve due to slowing new supply and steady demand for high-quality assets [2] - Conversely, Barclays has lowered its price target on PSA to $331 from $349 but maintains an Overweight rating. Barclays identifies the most potential in apartments, storage, and single-family rentals, while expressing less optimism for cold storage and retail sectors [3]

Core Insights - Simon Property Group, Inc. (SPG) is ranked sixteenth among the 20 Most Profitable Stocks of the Last 20 Years [1] - Morgan Stanley has raised its price target for SPG to $205 from $180 while maintaining an Equal Weight rating, forecasting a total return of approximately 15% for the REIT sector [2] - Scotiabank has also increased its price target for SPG to $189 from $186, maintaining a Sector Perform rating, and noted improved sentiment in the Self Storage and Multifamily subsectors [3] Company Overview - Simon Property Group, Inc. is the largest owner and manager of shopping malls, premium outlets, and mixed-use retail destinations in North America and internationally [4]

Group 1 - Venture Global, Inc. is ranked fourteenth among the 20 most profitable stocks over the last 20 years [1] - UBS has lowered its price target for Venture Global, Inc. to $16 from $18 while maintaining a Buy rating, following a successful arbitration decision with Repsol [1][2] - The arbitration resolution is considered a key catalyst for Venture Global, as it pertains to LNG sales from the Calcasieu Pass project [2] Group 2 - Venture Global, Inc. is a major U.S. energy company and one of the largest exporters of liquefied natural gas (LNG), developing and operating LNG production facilities along the Gulf Coast [3] - The company provides long-term global contracts and integrated supply chain services, including gas production, transport, shipping, and regasification [3]

Core Insights - Pernas Research LLC's "Pernas Portfolio" achieved a return of 4.8% in Q4 2025, outperforming the S&P 500's return of 2.7% for the same period, and a total return of 54.3% for the entire year of 2025 [1] - The year 2025 was marked by volatility, starting with California fires and a significant market reaction to Trump's "Liberation Day" announcement, which initially caused a 22% decline in the portfolio [1] - The portfolio's strategy was adjusted in response to improving market conditions and growing AI momentum, leading to significant alpha from stock selection [1] Company Insights - Semrush Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:SEMR) is highlighted as a technology company with a market capitalization of $1.8 billion, developing an online visibility management software-as-a-service platform [2] - As of January 28, 2026, Semrush's stock closed at $11.91 per share, with a one-month return of 0.17% and a 52-week loss of 31.43% [2] - Pernas Research views Semrush as an AI winner, having invested in the company four months prior to its acquisition by Adobe at a 78% premium, which supports the belief in its potential despite market fears [3] Market Trends - The AI-driven capital expenditure cycle is expected to persist over the next 12-16 months, with a focus on identifying both AI winners and companies misclassified as AI losers [3] - Some SaaS companies may struggle in an AI-driven environment, while others are anticipated to emerge stronger [3] - Semrush is not among the 30 most popular stocks among hedge funds, with 22 hedge fund portfolios holding the stock at the end of Q3 2025, down from 25 in the previous quarter [4]

Meridian Funds, managed by ArrowMark Partners, released its “Meridian Contrarian Fund” fourth-quarter 2025 investor letter. A copy of the same can be downloaded here. U.S. equity markets experienced a quarter supported by optimism around potential monetary easing and caution related to economic growth and valuations. Early gains were driven by strong AI-related earnings and the US Federal Reserve’s rate cut in October, which improved expectations for financial conditions. However, market sentiment cooled l ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a statutory profit after tax of GBP 4.8 billion, with a return on tangible equity of 12.9% or 14.8% excluding the motor provision [18][20] - Net income for the full year was GBP 18.3 billion, up 7% compared to 2024, driven by growth in net interest income (NII) and other income (OOI), which increased by 6% and 9% respectively [18][20] - Operating costs for 2025 were GBP 9.76 billion, reflecting a 3% year-on-year increase, while the cost-income ratio was 58.6% [30][31] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Retail banking saw growth in mortgages, credit cards, and European retail, with total lending balances closing at GBP 481 billion, up GBP 22 billion or 5% [21][22] - The commercial banking division reported a gross net lending increase of 15% in 2025, with FX volumes up over 20% [8][22] - Other income performance was strong, with OOI reaching GBP 6.1 billion, up 9% year-on-year, supported by the acquisition of Lloyds Wealth [29][30] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The UK economy is forecasted to experience resilient but slower growth, with interest rates expected to gradually fall in 2026 [4] - The company anticipates continued growth in key sectors such as housing, pensions, investments, and infrastructure, positioning itself as the UK's only integrated financial services provider [4][5] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is entering the final phase of its five-year strategic plan, focusing on faster-growing sectors and enhancing its digital and AI capabilities [5][12] - A significant transformation has been achieved over the last four years, with a focus on diversified revenue growth and improved cost efficiency [5][6] - The company plans to upgrade its return on tangible equity target to greater than 16% for 2026, reflecting confidence in future performance [17][40] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed a constructive outlook for the UK economy, highlighting strengthening financial positions for households and businesses [4] - The company is committed to further improvements in financial performance beyond 2026, with a focus on income growth and operating leverage [17][39] Other Important Information - The company announced a 15% increase in the ordinary dividend and a share buyback of up to GBP 1.75 billion, representing a total capital return of up to GBP 3.9 billion [2][38] - The company has generated GBP 1.4 billion of additional revenues from strategic initiatives to date and is upgrading its 2026 target to approximately GBP 2 billion [6][17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on deposit performance and expectations for 2026 - Management noted strong deposit performance in 2025, with a total increase of GBP 13.8 billion, and expects similar performance in 2026, with a slowing down in churn due to lower bank base rates [41][44][47] Question: Clarification on cost growth expectations - Management indicated that cost discipline remains critical, with a projected cost base of less than GBP 9.9 billion for 2026, reflecting a limited increase and the impact of strategic initiatives [41][49][51] Question: Guidance on net interest income (NII) and capital distribution - Management provided guidance for NII of around GBP 14.9 billion for 2026, expecting steady growth throughout the year, and discussed plans for reviewing capital distributions on a half-yearly basis [56][58][62]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Statutory profit after tax for 2025 was GBP 4.8 billion, with a return on tangible equity of 12.9% or 14.8% excluding the motor provision [18] - Net income for the full year was GBP 18.3 billion, up 7% compared to 2024, driven by growth in net interest income (NII) and other income, which increased by 6% and 9% respectively [18][19] - Operating costs for 2025 were GBP 9.76 billion, reflecting a 3% year-on-year increase, while the cost-income ratio was 58.6% [19][32] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Retail banking saw growth in mortgages, credit cards, and European retail, with total lending balances closing at GBP 481 billion, up GBP 22 billion or 5% [20][21] - Commercial banking gross net lending increased by 15% in 2025, with significant growth in targeted sectors [8][26] - Other operating income (OOI) was GBP 6.1 billion, up 9% year-on-year, with retail OOI growing by 12% [30] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total deposits increased by GBP 13.8 billion or 3% in 2025, with retail deposits up GBP 5.5 billion and commercial deposits up GBP 8.5 billion [22][27] - The structural hedge notional stood at GBP 244 billion at year-end, contributing to a significant increase in hedge income to around GBP 5.5 billion [28] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is entering the final phase of its 5-year strategic plan, focusing on high-potential sectors such as housing, pensions, investments, and infrastructure [4][5] - The acquisition of Schroders Personal Wealth is aimed at enhancing the company's wealth offering and deepening relationships with mass affluent customers [7][8] - The company is committed to improving operating leverage and reducing the cost-income ratio to below 50% by 2026 [11][32] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The management is optimistic about the UK economy, forecasting resilient but slower growth, with interest rates expected to gradually fall in 2026 [4] - The company upgraded its return on tangible equity target for 2026 to greater than 16%, reflecting confidence in future performance [17][41] - Management highlighted the importance of cost discipline and strategic initiatives in driving future growth and shareholder returns [49][53] Other Important Information - The company announced a 15% increase in the ordinary dividend and a share buyback of up to GBP 1.75 billion, representing a total capital return of up to GBP 3.9 billion [2][39] - The tangible net asset value per share increased to 57 pence, up 4.6 pence in 2025 [36] Q&A Session Summary Question: Deposit performance and expectations for 2026 - The company noted strong deposit growth in 2025, with expectations for continued healthy performance in 2026, despite some seasonal variations [45][48] Question: Cost growth and management - The management emphasized cost discipline, projecting limited absolute cost growth in 2026, aided by strategic initiatives and declining inflation [49][50][52] Question: NII guidance and structural hedge - The company expects net interest income to grow in 2026, with margin expansion anticipated throughout the year, although some quarterly variations may occur [56][60]