Core Viewpoint - The resignation of Zhang Hongwei from the position of chairman and executive director of United Energy Group is a significant event following the regulatory penalties imposed on him for financial misconduct related to the "Oriental System" [3][4][6]. Group 1: Zhang Hongwei's Resignation and Its Implications - Zhang Hongwei will resign from his roles at United Energy Group by the end of June, following a penalty of 10 million yuan and a lifetime ban from the securities market due to violations of securities laws [3][6]. - The resignation may raise concerns about the stability of the management team at United Energy Group, potentially leading to stock price volatility and affecting the synergy among companies within the "Oriental System" [4][8]. - Zhang's departure from multiple listed companies, including Minsheng Bank and United Energy Group, indicates a significant shift in the leadership structure of the "Oriental System" [7][8]. Group 2: Financial Misconduct and Consequences - The Oriental Group was found to have inflated its revenue by 16.13 billion yuan and costs by 16.073 billion yuan from 2020 to 2023, leading to severe public backlash and regulatory scrutiny [6]. - The China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) has stated that financial fraud severely harms investor interests and will enforce strict penalties for such misconduct, including potential delisting for companies involved in major violations [5][6]. - The Oriental Group is currently undergoing restructuring due to various debt issues and has already been delisted, indicating a broader impact on the financial health of the "Oriental System" [8]. Group 3: United Energy Group's Business Performance - United Energy Group operates in oil and clean energy sectors, with significant projects in regions such as the Middle East and North Africa, and is the largest foreign oil and gas producer in Pakistan [10]. - The company reported a net loss of 1.707 billion HKD in 2023, but projected a revenue of 17.523 billion HKD in 2024, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 28.9% [10]. - The stock price of United Energy Group experienced a dramatic decline, dropping from approximately 0.6 HKD to 0.26 HKD in June 2024, representing a 55.83% decrease and a market value loss of nearly 8.8 billion HKD [10].

Summary of Charter Communications and Cox Communications Investor Webcast Industry and Company Overview - The call discusses the combination of Charter Communications and Cox Communications, creating a leader in mobile and broadband communication services and video entertainment [4][5] - The merger aims to enhance customer service, operational efficiency, and competitive positioning against national and global competitors [6][7] Key Points and Arguments Transaction Details - The merger is described as transformational, combining Charter's customer-focused strategy with Cox's service reputation [4][5] - The combined company will serve approximately 38 million customers across 46 states, passing nearly 70 million homes and businesses [7] - The transaction has an enterprise value of $34.5 billion, with a purchase multiple of 6.4 times Cox's estimated 2025 EBITDA [12][23] Financial Metrics - Cox generated $13.1 billion in revenue and $5.4 billion in transaction-adjusted EBITDA in 2024 [21] - The transaction is expected to yield significant cost synergies, estimated at $500 million, primarily from procurement and overhead savings [24][81] Strategic Benefits - The merger will enhance product offerings, including Spectrum Mobile and Spectrum TV app, across the combined footprint [9][10] - The integration aims to provide consistent customer experiences and operational efficiencies, with a focus on onshoring jobs and creating new employment opportunities [11][10] - The combined entity will leverage Cox's B2B assets to drive growth in business services [9][90] Market Positioning - The merger will allow for better marketing capabilities and investment in product development, AI tools, and innovation [6][7] - The companies will compete in a highly competitive landscape, with significant competition from mobile broadband providers and streaming services [61][62] Governance and Ownership - Post-merger, the Cox family will own approximately 23% of the combined company, with Alex Taylor becoming chairman of the board [14][29] - The governance structure includes 13 board members, with a mix of representatives from both companies [29] Additional Important Insights - The merger is positioned as beneficial for American consumers and employment, with a commitment to lower prices and improved service [58][59] - The companies plan to maintain a focus on high-quality service and customer satisfaction, leveraging Cox's established reputation [76][77] - The regulatory process is expected to be thorough, with a timeline potentially extending to mid-next year [58][59] Conclusion - The merger between Charter and Cox is framed as a strategic move to enhance service offerings, operational efficiencies, and competitive positioning in the telecommunications industry, with a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction and job creation [4][5][6]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for Q1 was $598 million, reflecting a slight decline of 0.8% year-over-year on a constant currency basis [7][21] - Non-GAAP EPS increased by 9% to $0.68 compared to the prior year [8][22] - Free cash flow reached a record $141 million, up 493% year-over-year [9][36] - GAAP net income was $75.5 million, translating to fully diluted GAAP earnings of $0.54 per share [22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. Spine revenue grew by 2% in Q1, driven by strong product portfolio performance [10][23] - Enabling Technologies revenue decreased by 31% to $22 million, impacted by market uncertainty [14][21] - International Spine implant business grew by 1% on a constant currency basis, affected by distributor order timing [15][29] - Combined trauma and NSO business declined by 8%, although core trauma grew by 34% [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. Spine business showed above-market growth exiting April, with positive momentum expected in Q2 [11][12] - International revenue was $114.3 million, down 7.7% as reported, primarily due to supply chain disruptions [29] - The overall market for musculoskeletal products is expected to recover as supply chain issues are resolved [36] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to focus on sustained profitable growth and operational excellence while integrating the Nevro acquisition [10][18] - The acquisition of Nevro is seen as a strategic move to expand into the musculoskeletal market, adding a $3 billion market space [16][17] - The company plans to leverage its financial strength to accelerate investments in neuromodulation and improve cash flow [17][18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in recovering from Q1 challenges, citing improvements in U.S. Spine and supply chain remediation [46][48] - The company anticipates a strong Q2 performance, with positive trends in sales and order fulfillment [40][41] - Management acknowledged the impact of market uncertainty but remains optimistic about long-term growth potential [76][78] Other Important Information - The company returned to debt-free status after paying off nearly $900 million in debt from the NuVasive merger [9][33] - The company has completed its share repurchase program, buying back over 20% of the dilution from the merger [34][35] - The company is actively addressing tariff impacts through cost action offsets and vendor negotiations [38][116] Q&A Session Summary Question: Confidence in recovery from Q1 performance - Management noted that supply chain disruptions and timing of distributor orders were temporary issues, with confidence in a recovery in Q2 [46][48] Question: Synergies from Nevro acquisition - Focus will be on reducing operational expenses and improving gross margins over time [50][51] Question: Impact of competitors on sales cycles - No significant impact from competitors was noted, although financing options are being explored [56] Question: Organic growth guidance - Organic growth components remain consistent, with expectations to recover lost sales from Q1 [72][82] Question: FDA warning letter status - Progress has been made, and management is awaiting inspection to resolve the issue [98] Question: Future M&A plans - Near-term focus will be on integrating Nevro and NuVasive before pursuing further acquisitions [99] Question: Market growth and procedural health - Management indicated some slowdown in market growth but emphasized the importance of clearing back orders and launching new products [101][102]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for Q1 was $598 million, reflecting a slight decline of 0.8% year-over-year on a constant currency basis, primarily due to softer enabling technology sales and supply chain disruptions [6][19] - Non-GAAP EPS increased by 9% to $0.68 compared to the prior year, despite a higher diluted share count and a one-time EPS gain not repeated in 2025 [6][20] - Free cash flow reached a record $141 million, up 493% from the previous year, with the company returning to debt-free status after paying off nearly $900 million from the NuVasive merger [7][30] - GAAP net income was $75.5 million, translating to fully diluted GAAP earnings of $0.54 per share, an increase from the prior year quarter [20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. Spine revenue grew by 2% in Q1, driven by strong retention rates and product cross-selling, despite temporary supply chain disruptions [8][21] - Enabling Technologies revenue decreased by 31% to $22 million, impacted by a tough prior year comparison and elongated selling cycles [12][19] - The combined trauma and NSO business declined by 8%, although core trauma delivered 34% growth [14][21] - International spine implant business grew by 1% on a constant currency basis, affected by timing of distributor orders and supply chain issues [13][21] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. revenue was $483.9 million, essentially flat compared to the prior year, while international revenue decreased by 7.7% [26] - The overall market growth was described as slow, with surgeons noting longer approval times from insurance companies [95] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to focus on sustained profitable growth, leveraging financial strength to accelerate top-line results while maintaining strong EPS and free cash flow [7][8] - The acquisition of Nevro for $250 million is expected to expand the company's reach into the musculoskeletal market, adding a $3 billion market space [14][15] - The company is committed to integrating Nevro into its existing infrastructure to improve profitability and cash flow [15][16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in recovering from Q1 challenges, citing positive trends in U.S. Spine and ongoing remediation of supply chain issues [45][46] - The company reaffirmed its 2025 net sales guidance of $2.8 billion to $2.9 billion but lowered non-GAAP EPS guidance to $3.0 to $3.3 due to additional costs from the Nevro acquisition [36][37] - Management remains optimistic about the second quarter, expecting to see improved results as supply chain disruptions ease [37][38] Other Important Information - The company has completed its share repurchase program, buying back over 20% of the dilution created from the NuVasive merger [30][31] - The company is actively addressing tariff impacts through cost action offsets, including price increases and vendor negotiations [35][112] Q&A Session Summary Question: Confidence in Q2 performance after a challenging Q1 - Management indicated that supply chain disruptions and timing of distributor orders were temporary issues, with confidence in a recovery in Q2 [45][46] Question: Synergies from the Nevro acquisition - Focus will be on reducing operational expenses and improving gross margins, with a commitment to driving profitable sales growth [48][49] Question: Impact of competitors on sales cycles - Management noted that while selling cycles have elongated, they have not seen competitors causing delays in closing deals [53][54] Question: Expectations for cash use post-Nevro acquisition - The company plans to prioritize internal investments and may consider tuck-in acquisitions, with share repurchases remaining part of the capital structure [62][64] Question: Integration status of Nevro and NuVasive - Management reassured that Nevro's integration is separate from ongoing NuVasive activities, with confidence in managing both integrations effectively [86][88] Question: Update on FDA warning letter - Management reported progress with the FDA and is awaiting inspection, expressing readiness to resolve the matter [92] Question: Impact of tariffs on margins - Management stated that tariffs are not expected to materially impact margins due to the company's vertical integration and U.S.-based production [111][112]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported an adjusted EBITDA of $123 million for Q1 2025, despite a generally soft market environment [5][21] - A net loss of $69 million or $1.38 per diluted share was recorded for the same quarter [21] - The company returned $106.6 million to investors through share buybacks and dividends [5] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The high CV thermal segment generated substantial free cash flow, selling 7.1 million tons at a realized revenue of $63.18 per ton [21][23] - The metallurgical segment sold 2.3 million tons, achieving a realized coal revenue of $113.7 per ton for coking coal [23] - The PRB segment sold 10.7 million tons at a realized revenue of $14.93 per ton [23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. power generation increased by 3.8% year-to-date, with coal generation up 20% in 2025 [16][26] - The company noted a 20% increase in Chinese imports of seaborne coking coal in 2024, supporting global market dynamics [17] - Domestic demand for high CV thermal coal remains strong, counterbalancing international market softness [15][26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to capture annual synergies of $125 million to $150 million, having already executed strategies expected to yield over $100 million in annual synergies [11][27] - A capital return framework was established to return approximately 75% of free cash flow to shareholders [9][22] - The company is focused on maintaining operational momentum and capturing synergies as coal markets normalize [7][12] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to generate significant free cash flow, particularly in the second half of the year [18] - The company is optimistic about the long-term market outlook for metallurgical coal despite current pricing challenges [17] - Management highlighted the importance of stable power prices and the potential for increased coal-fired generation due to favorable market conditions [51][55] Other Important Information - The company completed a refinancing of its credit facilities, enhancing liquidity and reducing financing costs [19][20] - The Leer South mine is expected to resume longwall operations by mid-year, which should improve production rates [13][68] Q&A Session Summary Question: Did the adjusted EBITDA of $123 million include the $36 million of idled costs? - Management confirmed that the adjusted EBITDA does not add back the idled mine costs [37][39] Question: What is the outlook for the metallurgical segment costs in Q2? - Management indicated that Q2 costs are expected to be slightly impacted by planned longwall movements but overall should see a drop compared to Q1 [41][43] Question: Can you provide an update on the longwall operations at Leer South? - Management stated that they plan to reenter the mine soon and are optimistic about the longwall's condition [68][70] Question: How does the company view the recent executive orders supporting the coal industry? - Management expressed optimism about the administration's recognition of the coal industry's importance but noted that utilities are cautious about long-term investments [51][52] Question: What is the company's strategy regarding share buybacks? - Management confirmed that they will continue to deploy cash opportunistically towards share buybacks, especially given the current stock valuation [63][66] Question: How is the company approaching potential M&A opportunities? - Management indicated that the current focus is on share buybacks rather than acquisitions, given the favorable valuation of their own stock [99]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a net loss of $69 million or $1.38 per diluted share, with adjusted EBITDA of $123 million for Q1 2025 [19][21] - Generated $49 million in free cash flow and incurred $65 million in capital expenditures during the quarter [19][21] - The adjusted EBITDA figure does not add back $36 million in costs related to the Leer South idling [34][36] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The high CV thermal segment sold 7.1 million tons at a realized coal revenue of $63.18 per ton, with cash costs of $42.78 per ton [21][22] - The metallurgical segment sold 2.3 million tons, achieving a realized coal revenue of $113.7 per ton for coking coal, with cash costs of $91 per ton [22] - The PRB segment sold 10.7 million tons at a realized coal revenue of $14.93 per ton and cash costs of $12.44 per ton [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. power generation increased by 3.8% year-to-date, with coal generation up 20% in 2025 [13][25] - Domestic demand for high CV thermal coal is supported by strong power prices and increased coal-fired generation [25] - The metallurgical segment's long-term market outlook remains positive despite current weak pricing levels, with significant growth in Indian imports of coking coal [15][25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on capturing merger-related synergies, now projected to be between $125 million and $150 million annually [9][26] - A capital return framework aims to return approximately 75% of free cash flow to shareholders through buybacks and dividends [7][21] - The company is strategically positioned to capitalize on global coal market dynamics with a strong balance sheet and operational excellence [16][26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the current market conditions are soft but expect improvements as production curtailments in major thermal supply regions occur [12][15] - The company anticipates significant free cash flow generation in the second half of the year, particularly with the expected restart of operations at Leer South [16][19] - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate the current uncertainties in the market and maintain operational momentum [12][16] Other Important Information - The company executed a capital return program, repurchasing 1.4 million shares for approximately $101 million at an average price of $73.52 per share [7][21] - The board has authorized a total of $1 billion in share repurchases, with approximately $900 million remaining at the end of Q1 [8][9] - The company is actively pursuing additional synergies and cost-saving measures post-merger [26][30] Q&A Session Summary Question: Did the adjusted EBITDA include the idling costs? - Management confirmed that the adjusted EBITDA of $123 million does not add back the $36 million of Leer South idling costs [34][36] Question: What is the outlook for the metallurgical segment costs in Q2? - Management indicated that Q2 costs are expected to be slightly impacted by planned longwall movements but overall guidance remains favorable [38][74] Question: Can you provide an update on the longwall operations at Leer South? - Management stated that they are preparing to reenter the mine and expect to resume operations soon, with a focus on addressing any potential issues with electronics [65][68] Question: How does the company view the current capital return strategy? - Management expressed confidence in continuing to deploy capital towards share buybacks, especially given the current stock valuation [60][92] Question: What are the expectations for future coal demand and pricing? - Management highlighted strong domestic demand and potential improvements in pricing due to supply constraints and geopolitical factors [78][80]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a 3.7% year-on-year increase in revenue for Q1 2025, driven by strong performance in the HVAC segment and recent acquisitions [8][13] - Adjusted EBITDA grew by 12% year-on-year, with a margin expansion of 150 basis points [6][8] - Adjusted EPS increased by 10% to $1.38 for the quarter [13][17] - The full year adjusted EPS guidance was raised to a range of $6.1 to $6.4, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 12% at the midpoint [17][18] Segment Performance Changes - In the HVAC segment, revenues grew by 6.8% year-on-year, with organic growth of 4.4% driven by the heating platform [13][14] - The Infection and Measurement segment saw a 2% decline in revenues year-on-year, with an organic decline of 6.9%, partially offset by a 5.2% increase from the acquisition of KTS [15][16] - Segment backlog for HVAC was $451 million, up approximately 3% from Q4, while the Infection and Measurement segment backlog was $346 million, up 56% sequentially from Q4 [14][16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted a healthy backlog for highly engineered solutions in the HVAC segment, with strong demand in healthcare and institutional markets [21][22] - The Detection and Measurement segment is experiencing steady run rate demand, with regional variations noted, particularly stronger in the U.S. compared to Europe and Asia [21][48] Company Strategy and Industry Competition - The acquisition of Sigma and Omega is expected to enhance the HVAC segment's value proposition and expand the addressable market, particularly in multi-story buildings [10][11][22] - The company aims to leverage its existing U.S. facilities to increase sales to U.S. customers with minimal additional capital investment [12][22] - The company believes it is less cyclical than most industrial tech companies due to diverse end market drivers and a high level of replacement revenue [20][22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating macroeconomic uncertainties and highlighted a strong start to 2025 [22] - The company is optimistic about data center opportunities and new product initiatives in the HVAC segment [21][22] - Management acknowledged potential impacts from tariffs but indicated that they are well-positioned to manage these challenges [18][20] Other Important Information - The company ended Q1 with cash of $182 million and total debt of $960 million, resulting in a leverage ratio of approximately 1.6 times [16] - Adjusted free cash flow for Q1 was approximately $36 million [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the gross and net tariff impact for the year? - Management indicated a tariff impact of approximately $0.08 to $0.12 on adjusted EPS, translating to a net cost of about $6 million at the midpoint [28][29] Question: How does the Sigma and Omega acquisition fit into growth rates and EBITDA margins? - Management expressed confidence in the acquisition, noting it complements existing products and has strong growth potential, with EBITDA margins slightly lower than the HVAC segment average [29][31] Question: How has order growth progressed through Q1 into Q2 amid tariff uncertainty? - Management reported steady demand across segments, with no significant changes attributed to tariff-related uncertainty [41][42] Question: What is the visibility for multi-year growth with Ingenia? - Management projected Ingenia's revenue capacity to reach $140 million by the end of the year, with high demand for its unique product offerings [52][54] Question: What is driving the growth in the Detection and Measurement segment? - Management noted strong demand driven by various applications, including military and government spending, contributing to the segment's growth [73][76]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net sales of over $7.6 billion and adjusted EBITDA of $1.252 billion, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 16.4%, showing double-digit growth compared to the same period last year [13][14]. - Adjusted EBITDA margin improved significantly, reflecting a focus on costs, quality, and efficiency, alongside benefits from the synergy program [14][15]. - The company expects full-year adjusted EBITDA to be between $5 billion and $5.2 billion, with second-quarter adjusted EBITDA projected at approximately $1.2 billion [20]. Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America segment delivered net sales of $4.7 billion with adjusted EBITDA of $785 million and an adjusted EBITDA margin of 16.8%, showing significant margin improvement due to higher selling prices [15][16]. - EMEA and APAC segment reported net sales of $2.6 billion with adjusted EBITDA of $389 million and an adjusted EBITDA margin of 15.1%, demonstrating resilience despite a challenging environment [17]. - Latin America segment achieved net sales of $500 million with adjusted EBITDA of $115 million and an adjusted EBITDA margin of over 22%, driven by pricing initiatives [18]. Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In North America, corrugated box pricing increased while box volumes decreased by 4.7% year-on-year [16]. - EMEA region saw corrugated box volumes broadly flat, with a 1.5% increase on a same-day basis, while higher box prices were offset by cost headwinds [17]. - Latin America experienced a 6.3% decline in corrugated box volumes on a same-day basis, primarily due to challenges in Argentina, but pricing initiatives helped maintain strong results [18]. Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on becoming the highest-performing company in its sector, with a strong emphasis on operational improvements and capital optimization [7][8]. - A synergy program is on track to deliver £400 million in synergies by the end of 2025, with additional opportunities identified for further operational improvements [19]. - The company is committed to investing in its asset base to enhance quality, service, and innovation, with plans to implement 25 new converting machines starting in 2026 [8][12]. Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's future success despite geopolitical uncertainties, citing a resilient business model primarily serving the FMCG sector [15]. - The company noted a steadying of order books in April after a weak March, but remains cautious about significant demand recovery in the near term [48][50]. - Management highlighted the importance of consumer confidence for demand recovery, particularly in the North American market, while expressing optimism about the European market [61][62]. Other Important Information - The company announced the closure of over 600,000 tonnes in paper capacity across the U.S., Mexico, and the Netherlands, aimed at strengthening operations and improving long-term returns [9][10]. - The company is implementing approximately 140 quick win projects in North America expected to deliver around $50 million in additional EBITDA [11]. Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on the assumptions for your 2025 guidance? - Management indicated that they do not anticipate significant box volume improvement, likely due to their value strategy, and are monitoring the potential for a second price hike in Europe [25][31]. Question: Will CapEx in 2026 be much higher than in 2025? - Management stated that CapEx plans for 2026 are not yet determined and will depend on the future environment and growth opportunities [26][30]. Question: What are the cost savings associated with the mill closures? - The full-year impact of the two mill closures is estimated to be $50 million to $60 million in incremental EBITDA, with approximately $100 million in capital savings over five years [42][43]. Question: How is the company addressing tariffs and cross-border trade? - Management has been adjusting supply chains to comply with tariffs, noting minimal immediate impact but acknowledging potential demand destruction if tariffs lead to broader economic issues [88]. Question: What is the expected timing for the benefits from the mill closures? - Benefits from the closures are expected to be realized in the second half of the year, following a required process for notifying affected employees [94].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net sales of over $7.6 billion and adjusted EBITDA of $1.252 billion, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 16.4%, showing double-digit growth compared to the same period last year [11][12] - Adjusted EBITDA margin improved significantly, reflecting a relentless focus on costs, quality, and efficiency, alongside the benefits of the synergy program [11][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America segment delivered net sales of $4.7 billion with adjusted EBITDA of $785 million and an adjusted EBITDA margin of 16.8%, showing significant margin improvement due to higher selling prices [12][13] - EMEA and APAC segment achieved net sales of $2.6 billion with adjusted EBITDA of $389 million and an adjusted EBITDA margin of 15.1%, demonstrating resilience despite a challenging environment [14][15] - Latin America segment reported net sales of $500 million with adjusted EBITDA of $115 million and an adjusted EBITDA margin of over 22%, significantly higher than the previous year [15][16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In North America, corrugated box pricing increased while box volumes decreased by 4.7% on a same-day basis [12][13] - EMEA and APAC saw corrugated box volumes broadly flat, with a 1.5% increase on a same-day basis, while higher box prices were offset by cost headwinds [14][15] - Latin America experienced a 6.3% decline in corrugated box volumes on a same-day basis, primarily due to challenges in Argentina [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to become the highest performing in its sector, focusing on operational improvements and a disciplined approach to capital allocation [5][6] - A synergy program is on track to deliver $400 million in full run-rate synergies by the end of 2025, with additional opportunities identified for operational focus [17][19] - The company is committed to optimizing its asset base and reducing costs, including the closure of over 600,000 tonnes in paper capacity [7][8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's future success despite geopolitical uncertainties, citing a strong geographic footprint and product portfolio [12][19] - The outlook for demand remains cautious, with management not banking on a significant recovery but expecting some improvement in the second half of the year [46][58] - The company is actively managing costs and has seen improvements in order books as of April, indicating a potential stabilization in demand [45][46] Other Important Information - The company has authorized an investment of around $25 million for 25 converting machines to be implemented in 2026, aimed at lowering operating costs [6][7] - The company is focused on maintaining agility in capital allocation, allowing for adjustments based on market conditions [26][31] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on the assumptions behind your 2025 guidance? - Management indicated that they do not anticipate significant box volume improvement and are focused on profitability rather than volume [26][27] Question: What are the expected impacts of the new machines on CapEx in 2026? - Management has not finalized the CapEx number for 2026, emphasizing flexibility based on market conditions [24][25] Question: What are the cost savings associated with the mill closures? - The full-year impact of the two mill closures is expected to yield an incremental EBITDA of $50 million to $60 million and approximately $100 million in avoided maintenance capital over five years [39][40] Question: How is the company managing economic downtime? - The planned $100 million downtime is a one-off for Q2, with expectations for improved output in subsequent quarters [93][94] Question: What is the impact of tariffs on cross-border trade? - Management has adjusted supply chains in response to tariffs, with minimal immediate impact but ongoing uncertainty affecting consumer confidence [84][85] Question: How do quick win projects fit into the synergy targets? - Quick win projects are part of the broader synergy targets, contributing to the overall goal of achieving $400 million in synergies [100][102]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net sales of CHF 3.3 billion and EBIT of CHF 384 million, both marginally higher than the previous year [14] - Adjusted EPS grew by 5% on a comparable basis, benefiting from cost management and improved healthcare volumes [15] - The company expects adjusted EPS for fiscal 2025 to be in the range of $0.72 to $0.74 per share, reflecting two months of earnings from the legacy Berry business [25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the Flexibles segment, volumes were up 1% year-over-year, with modest share gains in healthcare and protein, offset by weaker consumer demand in North America [16] - The Rigid Packaging segment faced challenges, with net sales approximately 3% lower than last year due to a 2% decline in overall volumes and unfavorable price mix impacts [20] - Adjusted EBIT for the Rigid Packaging segment was £55 million, impacted by lower volumes and price mix headwinds [21] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - North American volumes were down low single digits, particularly in the Beverage sector, which saw a high single-digit decline [17][32] - Europe, Asia Pacific, and Latin America achieved low to mid single-digit volume growth, with China and India showing mid to high single-digit growth [16][17] - The healthcare market continued to improve, with medical volumes up in the high single digits, indicating strong demand for pharmaceutical packaging [18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to deliver identified synergies and accelerate earnings growth following the merger with Berry Global, with a synergy run rate expected to start strong in fiscal 2026 [8][12] - The combined entity will focus on higher value, faster-growing end markets, optimizing R&D investments to address complex functionality and sustainability challenges [11] - The company plans to prune its portfolio to enhance growth rates, margins, and cash generation across remaining segments [11][56] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted a variable and uncertain demand environment, particularly in North America, driven by consumer affordability issues and inflation [32][34] - The company remains confident in achieving significant EPS growth through synergies, independent of macroeconomic conditions [26][41] - Management anticipates muted overall demand in Q4, aligning with current macroeconomic conditions, but expects to maintain earnings within original guidance [25] Other Important Information - The company has returned £550 million in cash to shareholders through dividends, with a 2% increase in the March dividend compared to the previous year [24] - The integration teams have already identified €650 million in synergies, with €260 million expected to benefit fiscal 2026 earnings [12][26] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on North American volume decline - Management indicated that North American Beverage business saw high single-digit declines due to weak consumer demand, particularly in discretionary categories [32][34] Question: Synergy-driven EPS growth assumptions - Management confirmed that the €260 million in synergies for fiscal 2026 is expected to provide a 12% EPS uplift, independent of organic growth assumptions [36][41] Question: Breakdown of synergies, particularly procurement - Management stated that procurement will be a major contributor to synergies, with initial focus on SG&A, followed by procurement and operations [46][49] Question: Portfolio pruning timing and strategy - Management emphasized the importance of dynamic portfolio management and indicated that the assessment of businesses will continue, but timing for execution remains uncertain [55][56] Question: Procurement synergies and supplier engagement - Management highlighted the importance of harmonizing supplier terms and leveraging the combined entity's purchasing power to achieve procurement synergies [95][96]