Core Viewpoint - Vistra Corp. (VST) is anticipated to show significant growth in both revenue and earnings per share for the first quarter of 2025, with a revenue estimate of $4.4 billion, reflecting a 44.14% increase year-over-year, and earnings per share expected to reach 54 cents, indicating a 134.8% increase from the previous year [1][2]. Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for VST's first-quarter earnings is 54 cents per share, with a year-over-year growth estimate of 134.78% [2][3]. - For the current quarter (March 2025), the estimates range from a low of 15 cents to a high of $1.04, with an average estimate of 54 cents [3]. - The earnings estimates for the next quarter (June 2025) are pegged at $1.37, showing a 52.22% increase year-over-year [3]. Factors Influencing Earnings - Increased demand for clean electricity, driven by the expansion of large U.S. data centers and electrification in the Permian Basin, is likely to positively impact VST's first-quarter earnings [7]. - The commercial startup of solar and battery facilities at Coffeen and Bladwin has added over 100 megawatts (MW) to the company's capacity, contributing to earnings growth [8]. - Share repurchases totaling $4.6 billion from November 2021 to November 2024 have reduced outstanding shares, thereby boosting earnings per share, with plans for an additional $2 billion in buybacks between 2025 and 2026 [9]. Operational Insights - VST has implemented a hedging program that secures 100% of its 2025 generation volume, mitigating the impact of market fluctuations [10]. - However, operating costs and selling, general, and administrative expenses have risen faster in 2024 compared to 2023, which may negatively affect earnings [11]. Stock Performance - VST's shares have increased by 70.9% over the past year, outperforming the industry average of 14.2% [14]. - The stock is currently trading at a premium compared to its industry on a forward 12-month P/E basis [15]. Strategic Positioning - Vistra is expanding its generation capacity through both organic growth and strategic acquisitions, enhancing its competitive edge [17]. - The company is positioned in a region with rising demand for clean electricity, which supports its growth strategy [19].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The first quarter of 2025 saw comparable diluted earnings per share increase to $0.76 from $0.68 in the first quarter of 2024, representing a 12% increase [13] - Comparable net earnings for the first quarter were $216 million, driven by higher volumes, lower interest expenses, and cost management initiatives [13][15] - The company anticipates a net debt to comparable EBITDA ratio of 2.75 times by the end of 2025 and plans to repurchase at least $1.3 billion worth of shares [16][17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In North and Central America, comparable operating earnings increased by 2% due to stronger-than-expected volume performance [13][14] - EMEA segment comparable operating earnings increased by 13%, supported by robust demand trends [14] - South America saw a 25% increase in segment comparable operating earnings, driven by strong volume performance across all markets [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global shipments increased by 2.6% year-over-year in the first quarter of 2025, with volume growth in North America returning despite economic pressures [10] - The company expects global volume growth in the 2% to 3% range for 2025, with mid-single-digit growth anticipated in EMEA [11] - In South America, volume growth is expected to exceed the long-term range of 4% to 6% in 2025 due to recovery in Argentina and Chile [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on achieving 11% to 14% comparable diluted earnings per share growth in 2025 and is confident in its ability to navigate external uncertainties [9][19] - A strategic partnership was formed with Oasis Venture Holdings for the aluminum cup business, indicating a focus on long-term growth potential [12] - The company emphasizes operational excellence, disciplined cost management, and efficiency improvements across its operations [17][20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains confident in the ability to manage uncertainties related to tariffs and consumer pressures, particularly in the U.S. [9][19] - The company is optimistic about the demand for aluminum packaging, which continues to outperform other substrates globally [9] - Management highlighted the resilience of the business model, stating that the company typically performs well during economic slowdowns [75] Other Important Information - The company plans to maintain a full-year effective tax rate on comparable earnings slightly above 22% due to lower year-over-year tax credits [17] - Capital expenditures for 2025 are expected to be slightly below depreciation and amortization, in the range of $600 million [16][102] - The company has repurchased $651 million worth of shares year-to-date [16] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you frame your supply position in Europe and where the next leg of incremental growth will come from? - Management indicated that they have made significant investments in Europe, which allows for scaling up production, and they expect continued growth into 2026 and 2027 [26][28] Question: How are self-improvement initiatives tracking in North America? - Management noted that while they do not expect margin expansion, they are seeing improvements in operational efficiencies, particularly in Europe and South America [30] Question: What is the potential impact of tariffs on demand, particularly regarding beer exposure in Mexico? - Management stated that the impact of tariffs is minimal and that they have not seen significant changes in customer behavior or forecasts [39] Question: How is the promotional environment shaping up in major markets? - Management observed that there has been innovation in the energy segment and a more deliberate effort to price products to drive volume [48][50] Question: Can the company achieve 11% EPS growth if volume falls short due to tariffs? - Management expressed confidence in navigating uncertainties and highlighted the resilience of aluminum packaging during economic downturns [72][75] Question: What are the expectations for margin sustainability in North America? - Management acknowledged that maintaining current margins will be challenging due to affordability pressures from CPG customers [112][114] Question: How is the contracting process for the new Florida facility shaping up? - Management confirmed that the Florida facility has been integrated and is expected to contribute significantly during the peak season [53]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated revenues for the first quarter were $148.8 million, an increase of $10.2 million or 7.4% compared to the prior year quarter, with revenue growth in both divisions [10] - Operating loss for the quarter was $20.4 million, a decline of $3.7 million compared to the prior year quarter [10] - Consolidated adjusted EBITDA for the first quarter was a loss of $0.3 million, a decrease of $2.6 million over the first quarter of fiscal 2024 [11] - Cash flow from operations was a use of cash of $35.3 million in the first quarter, compared to cash used by operations of $15.1 million in the prior year quarter [20] - Total capital expenditures during the first quarter were $23 million, compared to $15.4 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2024 [21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes Theater Division - Total revenue for the first quarter was $87.4 million, an increase of 7.5% compared to the prior year first quarter [12] - Comparable theater admission revenue increased by 1.3% and comparable theater attendance increased by 6.9% compared to the prior year [12] - Theater division adjusted EBITDA was $3.7 million, compared to $6.2 million in the prior year quarter [17] Hotels and Resorts Division - Revenues were $61.3 million for the first quarter, an increase of 7.2% compared to the prior year [18] - RevPAR for comparable owned hotels grew by 1.1% during the first quarter, with an average daily rate (ADR) increase of 8% [18] - Hotels adjusted EBITDA increased by $1 million in the first quarter compared to the prior year quarter [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Comparable competitive hotels in the markets experienced RevPAR growth of 6.7% for the first quarter, indicating that the company's hotels underperformed the competitive set by 5.6 percentage points [19] - The upper upscale segment experienced an increase in RevPAR of 2.8% during the first quarter, indicating that the company's hotels underperformed the industry by 1.7 percentage points [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to maintain a focus on long-term value creation while managing short-term dynamics, with expectations for growth in both theater and hotel divisions [25] - The company is investing in enhancing customer experience through new ScreenX auditoriums and additional concession stands at Dine-in Movie Tavern locations [30][32] - The company is optimistic about the film slate for the rest of the year and into 2026, with several major franchises expected to perform well [34] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged that the first quarter did not meet expectations but expressed optimism for the summer movie season and the overall outlook for the year [25][26] - The company is prepared to react quickly to any economic uncertainties that may arise, leveraging its diversified business model [26][40] - Management emphasized the importance of attendance and customer experience, indicating a thoughtful approach to pricing in a potentially slowing economy [29][46] Other Important Information - The company repurchased approximately 424,000 shares of common stock for $7.1 million in cash during the quarter [23] - The Hilton Milwaukee renovation is progressing as planned, with 65% of the guest rooms completed and expected to be fully operational by June 30 [39] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact of concessions per patron - Management indicated that the change in food and beverage per caps was primarily due to pricing, with no significant changes in incidence or basket size [45] Question: Ability to take price increases - Management expressed confidence in their ability to manage pricing, noting that they have successfully passed through price increases in the past [46] Question: Hilton Milwaukee renovation pricing strategy - Management views the renovation as an opportunity to hold or potentially increase prices, especially with the upcoming convention center demand [47][50] Question: Impact of Marcus Movie Club on ticket pricing - Management reported that the initial results of the subscription product are positive, but its impact is still minimal [56] Question: Group pace and market dynamics - Management noted that group business is performing well, particularly in recently renovated properties, and that bookings are solid across several markets [58] Question: Labor expense impact and staffing levels - Management indicated that higher labor costs were due to a return to normal operating hours and that there is room for improvement in labor efficiency [75][76]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q1 2025, comparable diluted earnings per share increased to $0.76 from $0.68 in Q1 2024, representing a 12% growth [12] - Comparable net earnings for Q1 2025 were $216 million, driven by higher volumes, lower interest expenses, and cost management initiatives [12][14] - The company anticipates a net debt to comparable EBITDA ratio of 2.75 times by year-end 2025 and plans to repurchase at least $1.3 billion worth of shares in 2025 [15][16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - North and Central America saw a 2% increase in comparable operating earnings, driven by stronger-than-expected volume performance, particularly in energy drinks and non-alcoholic beverages [12][13] - EMEA segment volume remained robust, with comparable operating earnings increasing by 13% [13] - South America experienced a 25% increase in segment comparable operating earnings, supported by strong volume performance across all markets [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global shipments increased by 2.6% year-over-year in Q1 2025, with volume growth expected to be in the 2% to 3% range for the year [8][9] - In EMEA, mid-single-digit volume growth is anticipated for 2025, driven by the competitive advantages of aluminum packaging [9] - In South America, recovery in Argentina and Chile, along with growth in Brazil, is expected to drive volume growth above the long-term range of 4% to 6% in 2025 [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on achieving 11% to 14% comparable diluted earnings per share growth in 2025 and generating record adjusted free cash flow [7][19] - A strategic partnership, Oasis Venture Holdings, was formed to enhance the aluminum cup business, indicating a focus on long-term growth potential [10] - The company emphasizes operational excellence, disciplined cost management, and driving efficiency across the organization [17][20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains confident in navigating uncertainties related to tariffs and consumer pressures, particularly in the U.S., while sustaining positive momentum [7][19] - The company is optimistic about the resilience of its global portfolio and strong customer alignment, which positions it well to handle potential economic slowdowns [10][19] - Management highlighted the importance of monitoring geopolitical developments and their potential impact on operations [17] Other Important Information - The company has repurchased $651 million worth of shares year-to-date and plans to continue aggressive stock repurchases [15] - The effective tax rate for 2025 is expected to be slightly above 22%, influenced by lower year-over-year tax credits [16] - Capital expenditures for 2025 are expected to be slightly below depreciation and amortization, in the range of $600 million [15][16] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you frame your supply position in Europe and the next leg of incremental growth? - Management indicated that they have made significant investments in Europe, which allows for scaling up production, and they expect continued growth into 2026 and 2027 [25][28] Question: How are self-improvement initiatives tracking in North America? - Management noted that while they do not expect margin expansion, they are seeing improvements in Europe and South America due to lean initiatives [30] Question: What is the impact of tariffs on demand, particularly regarding Mexico beer exposure? - Management stated that the impact of tariffs is minimal and they have not seen significant changes in customer behavior or forecasts [36][38] Question: How is the promotional environment shaping up in major markets? - Management observed that there has been innovation in the energy segment and a more deliberate effort to price products to drive volume [46] Question: Can the company achieve 11% EPS growth if volume falls short due to tariffs? - Management expressed confidence in navigating uncertainties and highlighted the resilience of aluminum packaging in a recession [70][74] Question: What are the expectations for margin sustainability in North America? - Management acknowledged that maintaining current margins will be challenging due to affordability concerns among CPG customers [112][114] Question: How is the company adjusting its mix in specialty cans? - Management noted that there is growth in 12-ounce cans and that affordability is a key factor in the current market [115] Question: What are the trends in Latin America and expectations for growth? - Management indicated that Brazil is expected to see 2% to 3% growth, with recovery in Argentina and Chile contributing to overall growth in the region [121][123] Question: How should the market view supply-demand dynamics in Europe? - Management highlighted that Europe presents more growth opportunities than North America due to the shift away from glass packaging [125][128]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated first quarter sales were $1.5 billion, down 7% from Q1 2024 [7] - Net income was $40.3 million or $1.06 per share, compared to $104.1 million or $2.61 per share in the prior year quarter [7] - Wood Products sales were $415.8 million, down 11% year-over-year [9] - Wood Products segment EBITDA decreased to $40.2 million from $95.6 million in the previous year [9] - BMD sales were $1.4 billion, down 7% from Q1 2024, with segment EBITDA of $62.8 million compared to $83.6 million [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Wood Products segment saw lower EWP and plywood sales prices and volumes, with a significant impact from the Oakdale outage [9] - BMD's gross margin was 14.7%, a decline of 40 basis points year-over-year [10] - LVL and I joists volumes were down 3%, better than the 6% decline in single-family housing starts [10] - Plywood sales volume was 363 million feet, down from 372 million feet in Q1 2024 [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. housing starts decreased 26% year-over-year, impacting demand [7] - Daily sales pace in BMD improved in April, approximately 13% higher than Q1 2025 [15] - Weather significantly influenced sales activity, with January and February below $21.5 million daily, rebounding in March [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on strategic investments and capital returns to shareholders, supported by a strong balance sheet [8] - Continued emphasis on two-step distribution model to support customer inventory management [26] - Ongoing modernization projects at Oakdale are expected to enhance EWP production capabilities [17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The management expressed uncertainty regarding 2025 end market demand, with forecasts ranging from flat to mid-single digit declines [21] - Long-term demand drivers remain strong, characterized by housing undersupply and aging housing stock [22] - The company remains agile and prepared to respond to economic changes while focusing on customer service [22] Other Important Information - Capital expenditures in Q1 were $53 million, with a range of $220 million to $240 million expected for 2025 [17] - The company repurchased $71 million of common stock in the first four months of 2025 [19] - The Oakdale facility is expected to be fully operational by the end of Q2 2025 [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Thoughts on general line side of the business and inventory positions - Management noted that customers are relying on two-step distribution for inventory management and new product introductions [26] Question: Update on Oakdale project and ramp-up - The Oakdale facility is expected to shift veneer back into EWP production as it comes back online [29] Question: Capital allocation priorities and M&A pipeline - Management indicated a quiet M&A pipeline but remains open to opportunities while focusing on organic growth and share repurchases [30] Question: EWP pricing expectations for Q2 - Management expects low single-digit sequential pricing declines, with competitive pressures remaining [40] Question: Competitive pressures in EWP - Competitive challenges are primarily from existing EWP producers rather than dimensional lumber or open web trusses [52] Question: Impact of recent transactions in the industry - Management emphasized the importance of executing at a high level amidst ongoing industry consolidation [82]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The first quarter adjusted EBITDA was $57 million, and adjusted FFO was $0.21 per diluted share, reflecting a 17% increase from the prior year [25] - Comparable rooms RevPAR increased by 3.8% in the first quarter, while total RevPAR grew by 4.3%, contributing to an 80 basis point expansion in hotel margins [24] - The company repurchased $21 million of stock at a blended repurchase price of $8.9 per share, equating to a compelling multiple on earnings [15][16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Andaz Miami Beach opened on May 3, 2025, and is expected to contribute significantly to earnings growth in the coming years [6][7] - The recently renovated Marriott Long Beach Downtown posted a solid 145% increase in RevPAR [12] - Group production at Wailea was up nearly 20% in the first quarter relative to the prior year, indicating optimism for future growth [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Washington DC saw a 24% increase in RevPAR due to the inauguration, while New Orleans hotels grew RevPAR by 25% driven by the Super Bowl [8][9] - San Francisco generated RevPAR growth of 9% due to increased commercial activity [9] - The company noted softer performance in Wailea, but expects recovery as the Kaanapali submarket normalizes [11][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on a balanced and nimble approach to capital allocation, utilizing a strong balance sheet and future asset recycling to drive growth in FFO and NAV per share [7][17] - Capital investment activity for the year is expected to be in the range of $80 to $100 million, with ongoing renovations and upgrades across various properties [21] - The company aims to recycle capital and return value to shareholders through share repurchases and potential asset sales [16][66] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged increased macroeconomic uncertainty and declining business and consumer confidence, leading to a more cautious outlook for the year [14] - The updated outlook reflects expectations of total portfolio RevPAR growth ranging from 4% to 7% compared to 2024, with adjusted EBITDAre estimated between $235 million to $260 million [27][28] - Management remains optimistic about the long-term recovery in markets like San Francisco and Wailea, despite short-term challenges [10][56] Other Important Information - The company has nearly $150 million in total cash and cash equivalents, equating to approximately $650 million in total liquidity [26] - The Board of Directors authorized a $0.09 per share common dividend for the second quarter [29] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the underwriting trajectory for the Andaz Miami Beach? - Management expressed confidence in the Andaz's market positioning and expected EBITDA of $6 to $7 million for the resort this year, primarily in the fourth quarter [34][37] Question: Can you elaborate on the updated outlook and changes in Wailea? - The revised expectation for Andaz is $6 million to $7 million, with a $4 million forecast revision for Wailea due to a challenging operating environment [43][44] Question: What held back performance in Maui and how does it compare to peers? - Management noted that Wailea's luxury market is recovering, and as Kaanapali normalizes, they expect to benefit from increased demand [50][52] Question: What is the strategy regarding non-core assets and potential sales? - Management indicated a focus on recycling capital and remains open to divesting non-core assets when appropriate, with a current inclination to repurchase shares [62][66] Question: What are the expectations for luxury assets in the current market? - Management highlighted ongoing conversations regarding luxury assets, noting that while transaction volumes are slower, they remain focused on capital recycling [74][75]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Comparable RevPAR increased by 2% over 2024, while total RevPAR increased by 1.6% [4] - Hotel adjusted EBITDA margins increased by 54 basis points, with hotel adjusted EBITDA in Q1 at $61.3 million, reflecting a 2.2% growth over 2024 [9] - Adjusted FFO was $0.19 per share, an increase of $0.01 or 5.6% over 2024 [10] - Free cash flow per share increased by 10% to $0.63 per share over the prior four-quarter period [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Urban portfolio RevPAR grew by 5%, driven by group and business transient segments, with room revenues up 3.1% in January, 2.6% in February, and 5.4% in March [4] - Food and beverage revenue at urban hotels declined by 3.3% year over year, but excluding the Chicago Marriott, it increased by 5.5% [5] - Resort portfolio comparable RevPAR declined by 2.1% over 2024, with total revenues slightly up in January and February but down 4.3% in March [6][7] - Group room revenues increased by 10.4% over last year on a 5.2% increase in room nights [8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Florida assets saw mid-single-digit revenue declines, with RevPAR down 5.9% and total RevPAR down 4% [7] - Outside of Florida, RevPAR increased by 1.7% and total RevPAR increased by 2.9% [7] - Preliminary April RevPAR showed better than 2% growth [30] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on adding groups to resorts to preserve pricing and improve profitability [8] - Plans to refinance maturing loans through a combination of corporate debt issuance and recasting the corporate credit facility [12] - The company is pursuing opportunities to dispose of non-strategic assets while recycling proceeds into attractive investment alternatives [17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the unsettled macroeconomic environment has led to softer closure rates for group bookings [9] - The long-term secular drivers for US resorts remain strong, but near-term performance could be soft [20] - The company expects economic anxiety to settle as 2025 progresses, with a focus on increasing earnings per share [27] - Revised full-year 2025 RevPAR outlook to a range of -1% to +1% growth, reflecting a cautious stance on group bookings [23] Other Important Information - The company intends to continue paying a quarterly dividend of $0.08 per share in 2025 [10] - Share repurchases totaled approximately $16 million or 2.1 million shares at an average price of $7.85 [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: Preliminary portfolio-wide RevPAR for April - Preliminary April is showing a little better than 2% growth [30] Question: Renovation project costs and tariffs - Costs depend on the type of renovations; efforts are being made to secure materials before tariffs are reinstated [31][32] Question: Group conversion profile and average group size - The average hotel is about 200 to 250 rooms, with groups running the gamut from associations to corporate [36][37] Question: Group pacing in specific markets - Denver and Salt Lake are showing significant strength in group bookings [41] Question: Holes in group bookings for the rest of the year - The biggest holes are due to difficult comps in Chicago and Boston [48] Question: Average booking window for groups - Smaller groups tend to book 4 to 6 months out, while larger groups book 8 to 12 months out [53] Question: Competitive supply growth and developer behavior - Approximately 40% to 50% of markets have little to no supply growth due to anti-development stances [82]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported total revenue of $326.6 million for Q1 2025, marking a 4.9% increase compared to Q1 2024, and the highest quarterly revenue on record [15][16] - Operating margin for the quarter was 17.2%, with an adjusted operating margin of 18.3%, expected to be among the highest in the industry [15][16] - Diluted adjusted EPS for the quarter was $0.72, reflecting the resilience of the diversified business model [15][16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for the passenger segment, including scheduled service and charter businesses, grew by 4.1% year over year [16] - Charter revenue increased by 15.6% to $55 million, driven by a 10.7% growth in charter block hours [17] - Cargo segment revenue grew by 17.6% to $28.2 million, despite a 1.1% decrease in cargo block hours [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Scheduled service TRASM declined by 4.7% as scheduled service ASMs increased by 6.7% [16] - The company expects scheduled service ASMs to decrease by approximately 7% in Q2 2025 [10][17] - Close-in fares accelerated into April, indicating positive demand for the summer season [10][11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to leverage its diversified business model to deliver industry-leading profitability throughout all cycles [5][8] - Execution on cargo expansion is ongoing, with plans to have all eight additional aircraft in service by the end of summer 2025 [9] - The company plans to allocate pilot resources to support cargo growth, temporarily reducing scheduled service capacity [10][19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in outperforming during industry stress due to the strength of the diversified model and reliable demand in the home market [8] - The company anticipates a doubling of cargo revenue by September 2025, driven by the addition of new aircraft and increased unit revenue [9][66] - Management noted that the leisure market needs to shrink in the U.S. to regain pricing power, potentially through reorganizations or M&A activity [29] Other Important Information - The company has a total liquidity of $227.1 million at the end of Q1 2025 and plans to continue deleveraging, with net debt levels expected to fall below zero by 2028 [20][21] - The company repurchased $10 million of shares during the quarter and received an additional $25 million share repurchase authorization from the board [21][22] - The company was awarded Air Transport World's airline leader of the year for 2025 [13] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you talk about the ramp of aircraft utilization and profitability on the cargo side? - Management indicated that pilot credit hours will grow by 10% annually, but total system block hour growth will be below that as the focus shifts to cargo [25] Question: What do you think other carriers will need to do regarding peak versus off-peak flying? - Management believes the leisure space needs to shrink in the U.S. to regain pricing power, potentially through reorganizations or M&A [29] Question: Can you elaborate on demand trends through the quarter and into April? - Management reported strong performance in January, but load factor was missed in February and March due to high fares [36] Question: Can you discuss the reasoning behind tripling your revolver? - The increase was primarily due to the growth of the company since the IPO, not specifically for opportunistic purposes [41][44] Question: Can you talk about the new credit card deal with Synchrony? - Management expressed excitement about the new co-brand partnership, which is expected to improve revenue share starting in 2026 [52][54] Question: How should we think about the cargo revenue ramp this year and next? - Management expects a doubling of cargo revenue by September, with a gradual ramp-up as new aircraft are delivered [66] Question: Have you seen any share shift due to changes in product offerings from low-cost carriers? - Management believes their product is well-positioned and does not anticipate significant share shifts [93] Question: What are the guidelines for M&A in terms of leverage and liquidity? - Management emphasized the importance of maintaining operational flexibility and noted that liquidity is not as sensitive due to contracted revenue [99][100]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported total revenue of $326.6 million for Q1 2025, marking a 4.9% increase compared to Q1 2024, and the highest quarterly revenue on record [15][16] - Operating margin for the quarter was 17.2%, with an adjusted operating margin of 18.3%, expected to be among the highest in the industry [15][16] - Diluted adjusted EPS for the quarter was $0.72, reflecting the resilience of the diversified business model [15][16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for the passenger segment, including scheduled service and charter businesses, grew by 4.1% year over year [16] - Charter revenue increased by 15.6% to $55 million, driven by a 10.7% growth in charter block hours [17] - Cargo segment revenue grew by 17.6% to $28.2 million, despite a 1.1% decrease in cargo block hours [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Scheduled service TRASM declined by 4.7% as scheduled service ASMs increased by 6.7% [16] - The company expects scheduled service ASMs to decrease by approximately 7% in Q2 2025 [17] - Close-in fares accelerated into April, indicating positive demand for the summer season [10][11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to leverage its diversified business model to deliver industry-leading profitability throughout all cycles [5][6] - Execution on cargo expansion is ongoing, with plans to have all eight additional aircraft in service by the end of summer 2025 [9] - The company is focusing on reallocating resources to maximize profitability and minimize earnings volatility [22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in outperforming during times of stress due to the strength of the diversified model and reliable demand in the home market [8] - The company anticipates a temporary drawdown in scheduled service to absorb cargo growth, which is expected to provide a tailwind for scheduled service unit revenues [10] - Management noted that the leisure space in the U.S. may need to shrink for pricing power to return, potentially through reorganizations or M&A activity [29] Other Important Information - The company has a total liquidity of $227.1 million at the end of Q1 2025 and plans to continue deleveraging, with net debt levels expected to fall below zero by 2028 [20][21] - The company repurchased $10 million of shares during the quarter and received an additional $25 million share repurchase authorization from the board [21][22] - The company was awarded Air Transport World's airline leader of the year for 2025 [13] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you talk about the ramp of aircraft utilization and profitability on the cargo side? - Management indicated that pilot credit hours will grow by 10% a year, but total system block hour growth will be below that as they expand into cargo [25] Question: What do you think other carriers will need to do regarding peak versus off-peak flying? - Management believes the leisure space needs to shrink in the U.S. for pricing power to return, potentially through reorganizations or M&A activity [29] Question: Can you elaborate on demand through the quarter and into April? - Management reported strong performance in January, but load factor missed expectations in February and March due to high fares [36] Question: Can you discuss the reasoning behind tripling your revolver? - The increase was primarily due to the growth of the company since the IPO, not specifically for opportunistic purposes [41][46] Question: Can you talk about the new credit card deal with Synchrony? - Management expressed excitement about the new co-brand partnership, which is expected to improve revenue share, but benefits will not hit the P&L until 2026 [52][54] Question: How should we think about the cargo revenue ramp this year and next? - Management expects cargo revenue to double by September, with a significant increase in revenue per block hour [66][68] Question: Have you seen any share shift due to changes in product offerings from low-cost carriers? - Management believes they have a strong product and brand presence, which positions them well against competitors [95] Question: What are the guidelines for M&A in terms of leverage and liquidity? - Management stated that they are comfortable with their current liquidity position and have significant headroom on the balance sheet for potential opportunities [100][102]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue for Q1 2025 reached $326.6 million, marking a 4.9% increase compared to Q1 2024, and is the highest quarterly revenue on record for the company [14][15] - Operating margin for the quarter was 17.2%, with adjusted operating margin at 18.3%, expected to be among the highest in the industry [15] - Diluted adjusted EPS for the quarter was $0.72, reflecting the resilience of the diversified business model [15] - Total operating expenses grew by 5.5% on a 5.8% increase in total block hours, with adjusted CASM increasing by 3.5% year-over-year [18][20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Passenger segment revenue, including scheduled service and charter businesses, grew by 4.1% year-over-year [15] - Charter revenue increased by 15.6% to $55 million, driven by a 10.7% growth in charter block hours [15] - Cargo segment revenue grew by 17.6% to $28.2 million, despite a 1.1% decrease in cargo block hours, with revenue per block hour up by 18.9% [17][18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Scheduled service TRASM declined by 4.7% as scheduled service ASMs increased by 6.7% [15] - The company expects scheduled service ASMs to decrease by approximately 7% in Q2 2025 as resources are allocated to cargo growth [15][19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to leverage its diversified business model to maintain industry-leading profitability through various cycles [4][7] - Plans to expand the cargo fleet with eight additional aircraft, with three already inducted into service [7][8] - The company anticipates cargo revenue to double by September 2025, with two-thirds of flights under committed contracts [8][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in outperforming competitors due to the strength of the diversified model and reliable demand in the home market [7] - There is an expectation of margin expansion in the latter half of the year as cargo growth is absorbed and passenger fleet utilization is improved [102] - Management noted that the leisure market may need to consolidate to regain pricing power [27] Other Important Information - The company has a total liquidity of $227.1 million and plans to continue deleveraging, with net debt levels expected to fall below zero by 2028 [20] - The company repurchased $10 million of shares during the quarter and received an additional $25 million share repurchase authorization [20][21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you talk about the ramp of aircraft utilization and profitability on the cargo side? - Management indicated that pilot credit hours will grow by 10% annually, but total system block hour growth will be below that as cargo expands [23][24] Question: What do you think other carriers will need to do regarding off-peak flying? - Management suggested that the leisure space in the US needs to shrink to regain pricing power, potentially through reorganizations or M&A activity [27] Question: Can you elaborate on demand trends through the quarter? - Management reported strong performance in January, but load factors were missed in February and March due to high fares and slight demand weakening [30][32] Question: Can you discuss the reasoning behind tripling your revolver? - The increase was primarily due to the growth of the company since the IPO, with the previous revolver being insufficient for current revenue levels [39][41] Question: Can you talk about the new credit card deal with Synchrony? - Management expressed excitement about the new co-branding agreement, which is expected to improve revenue share, although significant benefits will not be realized until 2026 [49][51] Question: How should we think about the cargo revenue ramp this year and next? - Management expects cargo revenue to double by September, with a gradual ramp-up as additional aircraft are inducted [63][65] Question: Have you seen any share shift due to changes in low-cost carriers' offerings? - Management believes their product remains strong and well-positioned, with no immediate changes planned [91][92] Question: What are the guidelines for M&A in terms of leverage and liquidity? - Management emphasized the importance of maintaining operational flexibility and protecting the unique business model, with current liquidity levels being comfortable [96][98]