Contents 3 A Letter from Dan Dees 5 A Historic Paradigm Shift: AI Ushers In a New Era for Computing 10 The Power Imperative: Generational Opportunities and Challenges 17 Data Center Diplomacy: A New Tool for Geopolitical Influence 19 Meeting the Moment with Capital Solutions 24 Investment Banking Leadership and Contributors Dan Dees Co-Head of Global Banking and Markets Economic progress is rarely linear—throughout history, it's been punctuated by technology-driven inflections. The inexorable forces of fina ...

Core Viewpoint - CATL has secured a significant supply agreement with Vanda RE for a total of 2.2 GWh of battery energy storage systems, reflecting the growing demand for clean energy solutions globally [1][4]. Group 1: Company Developments - CATL signed a framework supply agreement with Vanda RE, a renewable energy developer based in Singapore, to supply battery energy storage systems [1]. - The battery storage systems will be produced at CATL's factory in West Java, Indonesia, which has a total production capacity of 15 GWh [3]. - The project in Indonesia is part of a larger initiative to develop a solar and storage project, which includes a 2 GW photovoltaic power station and a 4.4 GWh storage system, making it one of the largest integrated solar-storage projects in Southeast Asia [1]. Group 2: Market Trends - The global demand for energy storage systems has been rapidly increasing, with a notable growth in overseas orders for Chinese battery companies, including CATL and BYD [5][6]. - According to CITIC Securities, global energy storage installations are expected to grow by 42.2% year-on-year by 2025, reaching 266 GWh [6]. - In the first half of 2025, the global battery energy storage system market saw a significant increase, with new installations reaching 86.7 GWh, a 54% increase compared to the same period in 2024 [6]. Group 3: Financial Performance - In 2024, CATL's energy storage battery system sales are projected to reach 93 GWh, contributing approximately 57.29 billion yuan to the company's total revenue, which accounts for 15.83% of total revenue [7]. - The gross margin for energy storage batteries has surpassed that of power batteries for the first time, standing at 26.84% compared to 23.94% for power batteries [7].

Core Viewpoint - First Phosphate Corp. has signed an industrial land option agreement with Port of Saguenay to establish a phosphoric acid plant, marking a significant step in the company's development and strategic positioning in the critical minerals sector [1][2][7]. Agreement Details - The agreement grants First Phosphate exclusive rights to enter into a definitive land lease with the Port by December 31, 2027, contingent on meeting various financial and development milestones before construction begins in 2028 [2]. - The planned phosphoric acid plant will utilize advanced clean technology from Prayon SA of Belgium, with implementation by Ballestra S.pA. of Italy [3]. Strategic Benefits - The location provides direct rail and vessel access to North American and global markets, particularly benefiting European offtakers [4]. - The site offers access to large-scale industrial infrastructure, utilities, and potential for expansion [4]. - The project aims for vertical integration between upstream phosphoric acid production and downstream lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery material production [4]. Government and Community Support - Canadian government officials expressed support for the project, highlighting its role in developing critical minerals and enhancing local economic opportunities [7][8]. - The project is seen as a significant step for the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region in the battery industry, aligning with sustainable economic development goals [8][9]. Company Overview - First Phosphate Corp. focuses on producing high-purity phosphate for the LFP battery industry, connecting sustainable phosphate mining in Quebec with North American battery supply chains [12]. - The company's flagship property, Bégin-Lamarche, is noted for its high-purity phosphate resources with minimal impurities [12]. Port Overview - The Port of Saguenay is recognized for its strategic importance and contribution to the Canadian economy, providing deep-water marine facilities and direct access to major North American rail and highway networks [13]. - The port is positioned as a natural logistics hub for the development of the critical minerals sector in northeastern Canada [10].

Core Viewpoint - Nabors Energy Transition Corp. II has extended the deadline for completing its business combination with e2Companies LLC by one month, from July 18, 2025, to August 18, 2025, allowing more time to finalize the deal [1][2]. Group 1: Business Combination Details - The extension was facilitated by a $250,000 deposit made by Nabors Lux into NETD's trust account, which is a non-interest-bearing loan [2]. - If the business combination is successful, the loan will be repaid from the Trust Account proceeds or converted into warrants at $1.00 per warrant [2]. - If the business combination does not occur, the loan will only be repaid from funds outside the Trust Account [2]. Group 2: Company Overview - Nabors Energy Transition Corp. II is a blank check company aimed at merging or acquiring businesses that focus on energy transition solutions, particularly those that reduce carbon or greenhouse gas emissions while meeting global energy demands [3]. Group 3: Regulatory Filings - NETD and e2 will file a Registration Statement with the SEC, which will include a preliminary prospectus and proxy statement related to the business combination [5]. - Shareholders are encouraged to read the Registration Statement and related documents once available, as they will contain important information about the transactions [5][6].

Industry Overview - The Zacks Coal industry is experiencing significant challenges due to a decline in coal usage in U.S. thermal power plants, with further weakening demand projected for 2025 as coal-fired units are retired and renewable energy sources gain traction [1][4] - Current U.S. estimated recoverable coal reserves stand at approximately 252 billion short tons, with 58% being underground mineable coal, but the industry's prospects are hindered by a shift towards renewable energy and the gradual shutdown of coal-powered generation units [2][4] - The coal industry is ranked 228 out of 245 Zacks industries, placing it in the bottom 7%, indicating a lackluster performance outlook [6][8] Production and Consumption Trends - U.S. coal production is expected to reach 520 million short tons (MMst) in 2025, a slight increase from 512 MMst in 2024, but is projected to decline by 9% to 475 MMst in 2026 due to increased competition from cleaner energy sources [5] - The share of coal in U.S. electricity generation is anticipated to decrease from 17% in 2025 to 15% in 2026, reflecting the ongoing transition to cleaner energy [4] Export and Market Performance - The coal industry is likely to face reduced export volumes in 2025 and 2026, influenced by a strong U.S. dollar and competition from natural gas and renewables [1][3] - Over the past year, coal stocks have underperformed, losing 8.7% compared to a 3.1% decline in the Zacks Oil-Energy sector and an 11.7% gain in the Zacks S&P 500 composite [10] Valuation Metrics - The coal industry is currently trading at a trailing 12-month EV/EBITDA ratio of 5.58X, significantly lower than the Zacks S&P 500 composite's 17.64X, indicating a challenging valuation environment [13] Key Companies - **Alliance Resource Partners (ARLP)**: Expected to produce between 32.75-34.75 million short tons in 2025, with a Zacks Rank 2 (Buy) and a current distribution yield of 10.49% [17][18] - **SunCoke Energy (SXC)**: Plans to produce 4 million tons of domestic coke in 2025, with a focus on metallurgical coal, and holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold) with a dividend yield of 5.64% [22][23]

Core Viewpoint - Technip Energies and Shell Catalysts & Technologies have formed a global alliance to exclusively collaborate on delivering a post-combustion amine-based carbon capture solution utilizing Shell's CANSOLV CO2 Capture System [1][2]. Group 1: Alliance Details - The alliance combines Shell's technology expertise with Technip's project delivery capabilities, aiming to provide enhanced solutions in the carbon capture sector [2][3]. - The collaboration is designed to make carbon capture more investable, scalable, and accessible for industrial sectors, facilitating customer decarbonization efforts [3]. Group 2: Leadership Statements - Robin Mooldijk from Shell emphasized that the agreement represents a significant milestone in their partnership, aimed at advancing customer decarbonization plans [4]. - Arnaud Pieton from Technip highlighted the combination of cutting-edge technology and project execution excellence as key to the alliance's success [4]. Group 3: Proven Performance - The alliance builds on a strong foundation with two operational CANSOLV facilities and four CANSOLV-based projects that have reached final investment decisions in the last 24 months, including the Net Zero Teesside Power project [4]. - Both companies have continuously refined their offerings through innovation and operational insights to meet market demands [4]. Group 4: Company Background - Technip Energies is recognized as a global technology and engineering powerhouse, with leadership in LNG, hydrogen, ethylene, sustainable chemistry, and CO2 management [6]. - The company generated revenues of €6.9 billion in 2024 and operates in 34 countries with over 17,000 employees [7]. Group 5: Shell Catalysts & Technologies - Shell Catalysts & Technologies focuses on providing tools and technologies to navigate the energy transition, developing innovative solutions for decarbonization [8][9]. - The company leverages its extensive experience in refining and petrochemical operations to offer competitive advantages in the market [10].

Core Insights - The 2025 Statistical Review of World Energy indicates a complex global energy landscape characterized by simultaneous growth in both fossil fuels and renewable energy sources, with a notable increase in electricity demand driven by electrification efforts [14][26][31]. Group 1: Global Energy Demand and Supply - In 2024, global energy demand rose by 2% to reach 592 exajoules (EJ), with fossil fuels still comprising 87% of the energy mix [31][78]. - Renewable energy sources, particularly wind and solar, grew by 16%, contributing to 53% of the global increase in electricity generation [31][47]. - Natural gas demand increased by 2.5%, while coal demand reached a record level of 165 EJ, with the Asia Pacific region accounting for 83% of global coal demand [31][38]. Group 2: Carbon Emissions - Global energy-related carbon emissions grew by 1% in 2024, reaching 40.8 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent, marking a record high for the fourth consecutive year [31][79]. - China and India together contributed to 62% of the increase in global emissions, with China alone accounting for approximately one-third of total emissions [31][79]. Group 3: Regional Trends - The Asia Pacific region led global energy demand growth, contributing 68% of the total increase, while North America and Europe experienced slower growth rates of 0.4% and 0.7%, respectively [51][52]. - China was responsible for 57% of new renewable energy additions in 2024, significantly outpacing other regions [31][37]. Group 4: Energy Transition Dynamics - The energy transition is described as "additive," with both renewable and fossil fuel demands increasing simultaneously, highlighting the complexity of the current energy landscape [14][26]. - The report emphasizes the need for energy security, with renewable energy deployment helping countries reduce reliance on energy imports [65][66]. Group 5: Future Outlook - The report suggests that the energy transition is increasingly associated with energy security and independence, particularly in light of recent geopolitical tensions and climate impacts [23][65]. - Investment in renewables is seen as a key strategy for enhancing energy security and reducing vulnerability to global fuel market fluctuations [66][69].

Company Overview - Nabors Energy Transition Corp. II (NETD) is a blank check company focused on mergers and business combinations with entities that advance energy transition solutions, particularly those that reduce carbon or greenhouse gas emissions while meeting global energy consumption needs [2]. Business Combination Update - NETD's shareholders approved an extension for the completion of its initial business combination with e2Companies LLC, allowing the board to extend the deadline from July 18, 2025, to July 18, 2026, with the possibility of up to twelve one-month extensions [1]. - Each Monthly Extension Period requires a deposit of $250,000 into the company's trust account for public shareholders [1]. Regulatory Filings - NETD and e2 will file a Registration Statement on Form S-4 with the SEC, which will include a preliminary prospectus and proxy statement related to the business combination [4]. - Shareholders are encouraged to read the Registration Statement and related documents carefully once available, as they will contain important information about the transactions [4][5]. Investor Information - Investors can obtain free copies of the proxy statement and other documents through the SEC's website or NETD's website [5]. - The company has provided contact information for investor relations, indicating a commitment to transparency and communication with stakeholders [9].

Core Insights - Fusion Fuel Green PLC has made significant progress in regaining compliance with Nasdaq listing requirements through a 1-for-35 reverse stock split, effective July 14, 2025, to meet the minimum bid price requirement of $1.00 per share [1] - The company has restructured its capital following the insolvency of its Portuguese subsidiary, acquiring a controlling stake in Quality Industrial Corp. and its profitable subsidiary, Al Shola Al Modea Gas Distribution LLC, which is projected to generate approximately $20 million in revenue for 2025 [1][2] - Al Shola Gas has shown strong momentum with approximately $3.5 million in new orders and renewals from November 2024 to January 2025, and over $2.7 million in engineering and utility contracts secured between March and May 2025 [3] - The company is actively pursuing strategic mergers and acquisitions, including a potential acquisition of a UK-based fuel distribution company valued at approximately £50 million, aimed at enhancing its operational footprint in Europe [3][5] - Bright Hydrogen Solutions, a subsidiary of Fusion Fuel, has entered into a non-exclusive agency agreement with Sungrow to deploy electrolyzer solutions in Iberia, focusing on clean energy and green hydrogen plant deployment [3][5] Financial and Operational Developments - The company secured approximately $2.58 million in financing from private placements of senior convertible notes and warrants, along with a $25 million equity line agreement to stabilize its capital structure [1] - Al Shola Gas has added over 1,800 residential service contracts and two commercial service contracts since January 2025, contributing an estimated recurring revenue of $0.9 million annually [3] - In June 2025, Al Shola Gas secured approximately $1.2 million in engineering and utility projects, reinforcing its contract momentum [3] Strategic Outlook - The company is focused on scaling its hydrogen platform and pursuing disciplined, accretive mergers and acquisitions to drive long-term shareholder value [2] - CEO John-Paul Backwell emphasized the importance of disciplined execution in addressing legacy issues and building growth momentum through new orders and contract renewals [4] - The company anticipates closing 2025 with a stronger balance sheet and a larger portfolio, clearly defining its trajectory for long-term shareholder value [5]

Summary of S&P Global Q1 2025 Earnings Call Company Overview - **Company**: S&P Global - **Industry**: Financial Services and Market Intelligence Key Financial Highlights - **Total Revenue**: Increased by 8% year-over-year, with subscription products growing by 7% [2] - **Adjusted Diluted EPS**: Grew by 9% [2] - **Margin Expansion**: Achieved 240 basis points year-over-year, with trailing 12-month margins at a record 49.3% [8] - **Capital Allocation**: Returned over $900 million to shareholders through dividends and repurchases in Q1 [2] Strategic Developments - **Divestiture**: Signed an agreement to divest the Ostra joint venture to KKR, expected to close in the second half of 2025 [2] - **Separation of Mobility Division**: Announced intent to spin off the mobility division into a standalone public company, expected to be tax-free and completed within 12 to 18 months [2][9] Market Insights - **Bills Issuance**: Increased by 9% year-over-year in Q1, driven by structured finance and bank loans [3] - **Market Volatility**: Anticipated to suppress issuance volumes, particularly in high-yield markets, with expectations of a double-digit decline in Q2 [6] - **Macroeconomic Conditions**: Noted unpredictable market movements, geopolitical risks, and regulatory fluidity impacting customer behavior and decision-making [3] Business Segment Performance - **Market Intelligence**: Revenue increased by 5%, with strong demand for data analytics and insights products [12] - **Ratings Division**: Revenue grew by 8%, with transaction revenue up by 7% due to heightened refinancing activity [13] - **Commodity Insights**: Revenue increased by 9%, benefiting from strong demand during periods of volatility [14] - **Mobility Division**: Revenue grew by 9%, with dealer revenue up by 11% driven by products like Carfax [15] - **S&P Dow Jones Indices**: Revenue increased by 15%, primarily due to growth in asset-linked fees [16] Customer Engagement and Market Trends - **Increased Engagement**: Noted a significant uptick in platform usage across various divisions, indicating strong customer engagement [3][27] - **Subscription Resilience**: Approximately 75% of total revenue is recurring, providing stability during market fluctuations [5] - **Vendor Consolidation**: Customers are increasingly consolidating vendors, which S&P Global aims to capitalize on [27] Guidance and Outlook - **Revenue Growth Expectations**: Total revenue growth projected in the range of 4% to 6% for 2025, with adjusted margins between 48.5% and 49.5% [16] - **Billed Issuance**: Expected to be flat year-over-year, with potential for opportunistic issuance in the second half of 2025 [22] - **Focus on Innovation**: Continued commitment to innovation in data, benchmarks, and AI to enhance customer value [7] Additional Considerations - **Long-term Growth Confidence**: Despite near-term headwinds, management remains optimistic about long-term growth, particularly in the mobility sector due to trends in EV transition and used car markets [10] - **Cost Management**: Emphasis on managing expenses and maintaining margins amidst market volatility [21] This summary encapsulates the key points from the S&P Global Q1 2025 earnings call, highlighting financial performance, strategic initiatives, market insights, and future outlook.