Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Custom Truck One Source reported $482 million in revenue for Q3 2025, an 8% increase year-over-year, with adjusted gross profit of $156 million and adjusted EBITDA of $96 million, reflecting increases of 13% and 20% respectively compared to Q3 2024 [11][4][9] - Average OEC on rent was over $1.26 billion, a 17% year-over-year increase, with average utilization at just over 79%, up more than 600 basis points from Q3 2024 [6][11] - The company reaffirmed its fiscal 2025 revenue guidance in the range of $1.97 to $2.06 billion and adjusted EBITDA guidance of $370 to $390 million [18][19] Business Segment Data and Key Metrics Changes - The ERS segment generated $169 million in revenue, up more than 12% from $151 million in Q3 2024, with rental revenue increasing by 18% year-over-year [12][4] - The TES segment reported $275 million in equipment sales, a 6% increase year-over-year, with a gross margin of 15%, down from the previous year [14][15] - APS business revenue was $38 million, up 3% year-over-year, with an adjusted gross margin over 26% [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The utility contractor customers in the ERS segment are experiencing sustained activity levels, driven by increased electricity demand and projected T&D CapEx of approximately $600 billion from 2025 to 2029 [5][4] - The overall annual growth rate of spending in the T&D market is expected to be nearly 10%, with transmission spending projected to grow over 15% annually through 2029 [5] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to invest more than previously expected in its rental fleet, with net rental CapEx projected at approximately $250 million for the year [18][19] - Custom Truck One Source aims to reduce inventory by $125 million to $150 million compared to the end of the previous year, targeting a reduction to six months of inventory by the end of fiscal 2026 [18][29] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about sustained demand in the utility sector and the overall positive business outlook despite macroeconomic uncertainties [9][20] - The company noted that strong year-to-date results and robust order flow support expected growth across its consolidated business [9][20] Other Important Information - The company has seen a significant increase in signed orders, with a year-over-year growth of over 30% in the TES segment [7][39] - Management highlighted the importance of long-term relationships with strategic suppliers and a diversified customer base as key to success [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: Visibility for 2026 to sustain momentum - Management noted strong demand in the utility sector, particularly in transmission, and investments made in Q3 are expected to support growth into 2026 [22][23] Question: Clarification on inventory reduction timing - Management clarified that the $125 million to $150 million reduction in inventory is expected by the end of the current year, with a target of six months of inventory by the end of next fiscal year [27][29] Question: Update on utility T&D customers' project execution - Management confirmed that distribution and transmission projects are back on track, with good demand for new equipment [33][34] Question: Drivers of organic growth within TES - Management indicated strong demand from utility and forestry contractors, with a notable increase in signed orders [35][39] Question: Update on large transmission pipeline projects - Management reported good demand for transmission utilization and ongoing projects that are driving demand [42][43]

Core Insights - The investment landscape is seeing a significant increase in large deals, with transactions over $5 billion up by 50% to 70% in the US and globally, while deals under $1 billion remain flat year-to-date [2][3] - Smaller companies are expected to become more active in the M&A space, as they represent attractive acquisition targets for larger firms [4] - The IPO market has shown a resurgence, with September being the most active month for IPOs this year, driven by strong market conditions and a significant amount of capital waiting to be invested [6][7] Deal Activity - Overall deal volume is projected to increase by about 25% this year compared to last year, with a potential 30% increase next year, which could match the record levels seen in 2021 [12] - Smaller companies are benefiting from recent rate cuts, allowing them to borrow at better rates, which may facilitate more acquisitions [10][11] Sector Focus - The energy sector, particularly power and utilities, is highlighted as a strong area for investment, especially in relation to the infrastructure needs for AI development [14]