Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q4 2025, the company reported net income of $3.7 million, or $0.27 per diluted share, on net sales of $62.6 million, reflecting a gross margin of 27.7%, up from 24.9% in the prior year period, marking a 280 basis point increase due to lower operational costs and the Gold Tip acquisition [11][4][3] - Total cash flow from operations for Q4 2025 was $14.9 million, compared to $12.3 million in the prior year, driven by a 10% decrease in inventory and improved profitability [12][13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales declined 2.2% in Q4 2025, primarily due to softer consumer demand in basketball and outdoor games, although this was partially offset by growth in archery and billiards, aided by recent acquisitions and new product launches [3][4] - The company made significant inventory efficiency improvements, with total inventory declining by 10% year-over-year, supporting better working capital management [4] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The consumer environment remains mixed, with less affluent consumers being more price-sensitive while affluent consumers are less affected by price changes [5] - The company is closely monitoring emerging tariff policy changes but does not anticipate immediate impacts from recent changes [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is shifting focus from cost optimization to profitable growth while leveraging a leaner balance sheet and operational discipline established in 2025 [5][9] - M&A remains a capital allocation priority, with recent acquisitions aimed at supporting growth and expanding market position [7][9] - The company plans to increase capital expenditures in 2026 to expand capacity and improve efficiency [8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating the dynamic environment, emphasizing a strong free cash flow generation that supports future growth investments [9] - The company expects consumer conditions to remain mixed in 2026, influenced by moderating interest rates and persistent inflation [5] Other Important Information - The company repaid nearly $2 million of long-term debt during Q4 2025 while increasing cash levels, reflecting a strong cash arbitrage position [9] - The acquisition of AllCornhole was completed in Q4 2025, enhancing the outdoor recreation portfolio [7] Q&A Session Summary Question: Inquiry about the new 110,000 sq ft facility - The facility, located in Olney, Illinois, will primarily be used for warehousing for fitness and safety businesses, with potential for future consolidation of additional categories [16][17] Question: Product mix and demand trends - Higher price point products are showing favorable sales trends, while lower price point products are not performing as well, impacting overall product mix [18][19] Question: Future price increases in response to tariffs - The company does not anticipate significant additional price increases in the near term but remains vigilant regarding tariff changes [20][21] Question: Impact of potential tariff refunds - The company indicated that potential refunds from tariffs could be meaningful, estimated in the $4 million-$5 million range [24][25]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q4 2025, the company reported net income of $3.7 million, or $0.27 per diluted share, on net sales of $62.6 million, reflecting a 2.2% decline in net sales compared to the previous year [11][3] - Gross margin improved by 280 basis points year-over-year to 27.7%, attributed to lower operational costs and the benefits from the Gold Tip acquisition [11][4] - Total cash flow from operations increased to $14.9 million from $12.3 million in the prior year, driven by a 10% decrease in inventory and improved profitability [12][13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The decline in net sales was primarily driven by softer consumer demand in basketball and outdoor games, while archery and billiards experienced healthy growth due to recent acquisitions and new product introductions [3][4] - Selling, general, and administrative expenses rose by 6.8% to $11.6 million, mainly due to non-recurrent executive transition expenses [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The consumer environment remains mixed, with less affluent consumers being more price-sensitive, while affluent consumers are less affected by price changes [5] - The company is closely monitoring emerging tariff policy changes, indicating a proactive approach to market conditions [5] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is shifting focus from cost optimization to profitable growth, leveraging a leaner balance sheet and operational discipline established in 2025 [5][9] - M&A remains a priority for capital allocation, with recent acquisitions aimed at complementing existing product categories and strengthening market position [6][7] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expects consumer conditions to remain mixed in 2026, influenced by moderating interest rates and persistent inflation [5] - The company is confident in its ability to meet financial commitments while investing in future growth, supported by strong free cash flow generation [9] Other Important Information - The company repaid nearly $2 million of long-term debt during the fourth quarter and increased cash levels to $11.9 million [9][13] - A new 110,000 sq ft facility was purchased to support growth in safety and fitness categories, initially intended for warehousing [8][16] Q&A Session Summary Question: Is the new facility production or distribution, and will it alleviate tariff pressure? - The facility is primarily for warehousing for fitness and safety businesses, with potential for future growth plans [16][17] Question: How does the product mix impact sales trends? - Higher value premium brands are showing favorable sales trends, while lower price point products are not performing as well [18][19] Question: What is the outlook on additional price increases due to tariffs? - The company does not foresee significant near-term price increases but remains vigilant about the dynamic tariff environment [20][21] Question: Is the potential refund of tariffs meaningful for the company? - Yes, the potential refund is meaningful, estimated in the $4 million-$5 million range [24][26]

Cleveland, Feb. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CBIZ, Inc. (NYSE: CBZ), a leading national professional services advisor, today announced the release of its Q1 2026 Mid-Market Pulse Report, offering fresh insight into how middle-market business leaders are navigating today’s challenges and planning for growth in a complex economic environment. The report, based on insights from more than 1,300 CBIZ clients and client service professionals, highlights key strategic priorities and top areas of concern for busine ...

Core Viewpoint - Mondi reported resilient earnings and stronger operating cash flow for the full year 2025, despite facing a prolonged cyclical downturn in the packaging and paper markets [4] Financial Performance - Underlying EBITDA for 2025 was EUR 1.0 billion, slightly down from EUR 1.049 billion in the previous year, with cash generated from operations increasing to EUR 1.072 billion [2][4] - Overall input costs remained flat year-over-year, with labor inflation being the main cost driver [2][4] - Net debt at the end of the year was EUR 2.6 billion, representing a leverage ratio of 2.6x, with approximately EUR 1.3 billion in liquidity and no debt maturities until 2028 [7][8] Capital Allocation - Cash capital expenditure for 2026 was reduced to about EUR 550 million, focusing on maintenance and targeted cost optimization [5][13] - The board recommended an ordinary dividend of EUR 0.2825 per share, aligning with the company's stated dividend cover policy [5][14] Cost Management and Restructuring - The company implemented a broad cost and efficiency program, including a reduction of approximately 1,000 jobs over the last 12 months and three planned plant closures in Hungary, Germany, and Turkey [6][9] - A combined corrugated and uncoated paper business unit was established to enhance operational synergies and decision-making [10] Market Conditions - Corrugated packaging margins faced pressure due to supply-demand imbalances and intense competition, with European box demand increasing by about 2% in 2025 [15] - Uncoated fine paper prices were under significant pressure, while Mondi's South African business was affected by a strong rand [16] - Flexible packaging saw strong volume growth, particularly in the global paper bags business, driven by e-commerce demand [17] Future Outlook - Management expressed readiness to benefit from a market upswing, emphasizing that deleveraging will depend on net debt management and EBITDA improvements [19]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales increased by 6% to $137.5 million, driven by pricing, favorable sales mix, higher content value, new program launches, and tariff recovery [8][12] - Gross margin improved to 16.5%, expanding by 330 basis points year-over-year [8][14] - Net income nearly quadrupled to $5 million, or $1.21 per diluted share, with adjusted earnings per share growing 163% to $1.71 [8][21] - Cash from operations reached $14 million for the quarter, totaling $25 million year-to-date [9][23] - The company has a strong balance sheet with $99 million in cash and total debt of only $2.5 million [9][25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company implemented a voluntary retirement program expected to generate $3.4 million in annualized savings [10][37] - Selling, Administrative, and Engineering expenses increased to $17.9 million, or 13% of sales, due to one-time charges and investments in business transformation [18][20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - North American automotive production is forecasted to remain flat to moderately decline, impacting the company's sales [28] - The company expects a slight improvement in sales in the third quarter, but anticipates a year-over-year decline of approximately 3%-4% in the second half [14][56] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on deepening customer relationships in engineered access solutions and striving for operational excellence to enable sustainable, profitable growth [29] - Investments are prioritized for organic growth, process modernization, and evaluating M&A opportunities for long-term growth [26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged challenges from supply chain disruptions but noted minimal impact on sales due to customer adaptability [33] - The company is confident in its transformation efforts, having significantly expanded margins and tripled net income [28][29] Other Important Information - The company expects to generate about $40 million in cash from operations annually, with capital expenditures for fiscal 2026 projected to be less than $10 million [24][25] Q&A Session Summary Question: Were there actual revenue pushes from Q2 into Q3 due to supply chain disruptions? - Management indicated there was some slight impact from a supplier fire and chip challenges, but customers managed to work around these issues with minimal sales impact [33] Question: How should selling and administrative expenses be expected to trend in the second half? - Management expects these expenses to remain in the 10%-11% range for the back half of the year, with some adjustments for merit increases [35][36] Question: When will the $3.4 million in savings from the early retirement plan hit the bottom line? - The annual benefit will be phased in, with approximately $400,000 recognized in the current quarter and expected to reach about $800,000 per quarter by the fourth quarter [37][38] Question: What is the outlook for free cash flow? - Management noted that inventory build and restructuring costs will impact cash flow in the third quarter, but the company is intentionally building inventories to improve service delivery [39][40] Question: Can you discuss conversations with potential new customers in North America? - Management highlighted ongoing discussions focused on access products and digital keys, emphasizing the long sales cycle in the automotive industry [47][48] Question: Any updates on the product line review? - Management confirmed a focus on power access products and digital key technology, having deprioritized the switch business due to profitability concerns [55]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue declined 5% to $1.3 billion, slightly better than the outlook shared in November, with a timing shift of some wholesale deliveries contributing approximately 1 percentage point of growth [27] - Third quarter gross margin declined 310 basis points year-over-year to 44.4%, primarily due to supply chain headwinds and higher U.S. tariffs [30] - Reported diluted loss per share was $1.01, influenced by a non-cash valuation allowance against certain U.S. federal deferred tax assets [33] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Apparel revenue decreased 3%, largely due to softness in training, golf, and running categories, while sportswear remained flat [29] - Footwear revenue decreased 12%, reflecting declines across most categories, partially offset by growth in outdoor [29] - Accessories revenue decreased 3%, driven largely by declines in golf, outdoor, and team sports [29] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America revenue declined 10%, primarily due to a decrease in wholesale [28] - EMEA revenue increased 6% on a reported basis and 2% on a currency-neutral basis, with growth in both wholesale and direct-to-consumer [28] - APAC revenue decreased 5% on both reported and currency-neutral bases, marking a sequential improvement from earlier declines [28] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on execution and has made leadership changes to enhance speed and accountability [9][10] - A disciplined strategy is being implemented to simplify operations, reduce SKUs, and improve product mix and pricing [11][12] - The company aims to stabilize its footwear business by exiting low productivity styles and concentrating on fewer, higher-impact franchises [14][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management believes the most disruptive phase of the reset is behind, with a focus on execution and stabilization [25] - There is growing confidence in the North American market, with expectations for stabilization in FY 2027 [45][49] - The company anticipates a decline in full-year revenue of approximately 4%, with expectations for improvement in fourth-quarter revenue trends [37] Other Important Information - The company recorded $75 million in restructuring charges and $3 million in transformation-related expenses during the third quarter [31] - Inventory was down 2% year-over-year to just over $1 billion, indicating improved inventory management [36] - The company is prioritizing balance sheet strength, ending the quarter with no amounts outstanding under its revolving credit facility [36] Q&A Session Questions and Answers Question: Can you speak to what makes you confident about stabilization in North America? - Management expressed confidence in the leadership team and the clarity of the operational model, indicating that they are addressing the right issues and seeing positive order book trends [45][46][49] Question: Are you seeing progress in Europe and APAC as well? - Management noted that EMEA has been a strong performer with 9% growth, while APAC is viewed as a critical long-term growth opportunity [61][64] Question: How are you thinking about segmentation in footwear? - The company is focusing on clear segmentation of good, better, and best products, aiming to concentrate growth at the better and best levels [68][70]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Cardinal Health reported total revenue for Q2 increased by 19% to $66 billion, driven by strong demand in the pharmaceutical and specialty solutions segment [10] - Gross margin dollars increased by 24% to $2.4 billion, reflecting a favorable mix across businesses [10] - Non-GAAP diluted EPS for the quarter was $2.63, a 36% increase compared to $1.93 in the same quarter last year [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Pharmaceutical and Specialty Solutions segment revenue increased by 19% to $61 billion, with segment profit rising by 29% to $687 million [12][14] - GMPD segment revenue grew by 3% to $3.3 billion, with segment profit increasing to $37 million from $18 million in the prior year [15] - Other growth businesses, including Nuclear and Precision Health Solutions, at-Home Solutions, and OptiFreight Logistics, saw revenue increase by 34% to $1.7 billion, with segment profit up by 52% to $179 million [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company expects specialty revenues to surpass $50 billion in fiscal 2026, indicating strong growth in this high-margin area [7] - The GMPD segment's revenue growth was partially attributed to inventory restocking by distributors, which is expected to normalize in Q3 [15][21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Cardinal Health is focused on strengthening its core business while expanding in specialty and other growth areas, with a commitment to operational excellence and simplification [6][23] - The acquisition of Solaris Health is expected to enhance the company's specialty offerings and market position [7][25] - The company is committed to investing in technology and infrastructure to improve service levels and operational efficiency [25][31] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate the dynamic healthcare environment and deliver sustainable growth [23][32] - The updated fiscal year 2026 EPS guidance was raised to a range of $10.15-$10.35, reflecting strong performance and momentum across the portfolio [19][23] - Management noted that while there are expectations for continued strong demand, they are not assuming outsized demand for the remainder of the year [39] Other Important Information - The company generated $1.8 billion in adjusted free cash flow year-to-date and ended the quarter with a cash position of $2.8 billion [18] - Cardinal Health has returned $1 billion to shareholders so far this year, including $375 million in share repurchases [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you unpack or break down some of the components of the profit performance in Pharma Solutions? - Management noted strong demand across all categories in the pharma business, with significant contributions from specialty and generics, and emphasized strong execution by operations teams [35][37] Question: Can you parse apart the other segment a little bit? - Management indicated that the core business remains strong across the three businesses within the other segment, with the ADS acquisition performing at least consistent with expectations [46][48] Question: Can you give us a bit more on capital allocation and the capacity for further transactions? - Management highlighted a disciplined capital allocation framework and noted flexibility to assess growth opportunities while protecting the core business [52][56] Question: Should we expect to see manufacturer brand drug price decreases impact revenue or operating income? - Management stated that anticipated changes in manufacturer pricing would be adjusted within the cost structure to preserve margins, and they do not foresee significant impacts on revenue [76][78] Question: How is the company modeling revenue or earnings for GLP-1s this year? - Management indicated that while GLP-1s have seen significant volume growth, they do not expect it to be a meaningful driver for underlying profitability moving forward [84][85]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Reported earnings for Q4 2025 were $2.9 billion or $7.17 per share, while adjusted earnings were $1 billion or $2.47 per share, reflecting a flat performance compared to the previous quarter [11][12] - Capital spending for the quarter was $682 million, with operating cash flow generated at $2.8 billion [12][15] - Net debt to capital ratio stood at 38%, with a commitment to return over 50% of net operating cash flow to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases [11][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Midstream adjusted EBITDA increased by 40% since 2022, reaching approximately $1 billion in Q4 2025, driven by higher volumes despite lower margins [8][12] - Refining results improved due to the acquisition of WRB, with higher realized margins in the Gulf Coast, offset by weaker Central Corridor crack spreads [12][13] - Renewable Fuels saw improved results primarily due to higher realized margins, while Chemicals experienced a decrease due to lower polyethylene margins [12][13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The acquisition of WRB increased exposure to Canadian heavy crude differentials by 40%, which have widened by approximately $4 per barrel since the acquisition announcement [7][12] - The worldwide crude utilization rate is expected to be in the low 90s for Q1 2026, with anticipated turnaround expenses between $170 million and $190 million [16][16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on safe, reliable operations, continuous improvement, and disciplined capital allocation to maximize profitability [4][18] - Strategic actions in 2025 included acquiring the remaining 50% interest in WRB, selling a 65% interest in the Germany and Austria retail marketing business, and idling the Los Angeles refinery [5][6] - The company aims to achieve an adjusted controllable cost per barrel of approximately $5.50 by the end of 2027 [6][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the refining sector, anticipating continued demand growth in 2026, with challenges in meeting that demand due to low refinery additions [80] - The company is optimistic about achieving a run-rate adjusted EBITDA of approximately $4.5 billion by year-end 2027, supported by organic growth opportunities [9][78] - Management emphasized the importance of maintaining a conservative balance sheet while returning cash to shareholders [11][18] Other Important Information - The company reported its best year ever for safety performance in 2025, highlighting the commitment to safety as foundational to operations [4] - The company plans to add a gas plant approximately every 12-18 months, with the Iron Mesa gas plant expected to be in service in early 2027 [9] Q&A Session Summary Question: Outlook for Mid-Continent products and feedstock opportunities post-WRB consolidation - Management highlighted the integration of refining, midstream, and marketing assets, emphasizing the advantages of heavy Canadian crude and the robust demand profile in PADD 2 [20][21] Question: 2026 priorities on cost outlook - Management indicated a target of $5.50 per barrel for controllable refining costs, with continuous improvement initiatives in place [24][27] Question: Turnaround management and utilization rates - Management noted a relatively light turnaround cycle in 2026, with a focus on maintaining low turnaround costs while maximizing utilization [32][34] Question: Cash flow framework and stock buyback capacity - Management outlined a framework for returning cash to shareholders, with approximately $4 billion available for debt reduction and buybacks [36][38] Question: Dynamics of WCS spreads and Venezuelan crude - Management confirmed the ability to process Venezuelan crude and its potential impact on heavy crude differentials, while also addressing market expectations [42][44] Question: Refining operational performance and M&A opportunities - Management acknowledged the potential for M&A if value-creating opportunities arise, particularly in the Mid-Continent or Gulf Coast regions [90][92]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Reported earnings for Q4 2025 were $2.9 billion or $7.17 per share, while adjusted earnings were $1 billion or $2.47 per share, reflecting a flat performance compared to the previous quarter [11][12] - Capital spending for the quarter was $682 million, with operating cash flow generated at $2.8 billion [12][14] - Net debt to capital ratio stood at 38%, with a commitment to return over 50% of net operating cash flow to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases [11][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Midstream adjusted EBITDA increased by 40% since 2022, reaching approximately $1 billion in Q4 2025, driven by higher volumes despite lower margins [8][12] - Refining results improved due to the acquisition of WRB and higher realized margins in the Gulf Coast, offset by weaker margins in the Central Corridor [12][13] - Chemicals segment saw a decrease in results primarily due to lower polyethylene margins driven by lower sales prices [12][13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The acquisition of WRB increased exposure to Canadian heavy crude differentials by 40%, which have widened by approximately $4 per barrel since the acquisition announcement [7][12] - PADD 2 is expected to have robust demand for the next decade, with gasoline stable and diesel and jet fuel continuing to grow [21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on safe, reliable operations, continuous improvement, and disciplined capital allocation to maximize profitability [4][18] - Strategic actions in 2025 included acquiring the remaining 50% interest in WRB, selling a 65% interest in the Germany and Austria retail marketing business, and idling the Los Angeles refinery [5][6] - The company aims to achieve an adjusted controllable cost per barrel of approximately $5.50 by the end of 2027 [6][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the refining sector, anticipating continued demand growth and challenges in meeting that demand due to low refinery additions [80] - The company is optimistic about achieving its cost reduction targets and improving operational reliability [27][28] - Management highlighted a positive inflection point in results for 2025, with expectations for continued improvement in 2026 [18][80] Other Important Information - The company plans to add a gas plant approximately every 12-18 months, with a run-rate adjusted EBITDA target of approximately $4.5 billion by year-end 2027 [9][10] - The company has streamlined its operations and reduced headcount to enhance efficiency and performance [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Outlook for Mid-Continent products and feedstock opportunities post-WRB consolidation - Management highlighted strong integration between refining, midstream, and marketing assets, with a focus on maximizing the advantage of heavy Canadian crude [21] Question: 2026 priorities on cost outlook - Management indicated a target of $5.50 per barrel for controllable refining costs, with continuous improvement initiatives in place [24][27] Question: Turnaround management and utilization rates - Management noted a relatively low turnaround cycle for 2026, with a focus on maintaining high utilization rates [33][34] Question: Cash flow framework and stock buyback capacity - Management outlined a framework for returning cash to shareholders, with approximately $4 billion available for debt reduction and buybacks [36][38] Question: Dynamics of WCS spreads and Venezuelan crude - Management confirmed the ability to process Venezuelan crude and its impact on heavy crude differentials, emphasizing flexibility in crude sourcing [44][46] Question: Potential for consolidation in the refining industry - Management expressed openness to M&A opportunities that enhance competitive advantage, particularly in the Mid-Continent or Gulf Coast [92]

Core Insights - PepsiCo, Inc. reported strong fourth-quarter 2025 results with revenues and earnings per share (EPS) exceeding expectations and showing year-over-year improvement [1][3] - The company experienced accelerated net revenue growth, demonstrating its ability to adapt in a challenging environment [1] Financial Performance - PepsiCo's fourth-quarter core EPS was $2.26, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.24 and reflecting a 15.3% year-over-year increase [3] - Reported EPS was $1.85, marking a 68% year-over-year surge in the fourth quarter [3] - Net revenues reached $29.34 billion, a 5.6% increase year over year, slightly above the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $29 billion [7] - Organic revenue growth was 2.1% year over year, driven by a 4.5% increase in effective net pricing, despite a 2% decline in organic volume [7] Segment Performance - Revenue growth was observed across all segments, with notable increases in EMEA (12%), LatAm Foods (11%), and PBNA (4%) [12] - Organic revenues improved in most segments, except for PFNA, which saw a 1% decline [13] Operational Efficiency - Reported operating income rose 58% year over year to $3.6 billion, while core operating income increased 17.7% to $4.1 billion [10] - The operating margin expanded significantly to 12.1% from 8.1% in the previous year [10] Future Outlook - For 2026, PepsiCo anticipates organic revenue growth of 2-4%, with a focus on innovation and productivity to enhance competitiveness [20] - The company expects core constant-currency EPS to increase by 4-6%, with core EPS growth projected at 5-7% [21] - Capital spending is expected to remain below 5% of net revenues, with a target free cash flow conversion ratio of at least 80% [22] Shareholder Returns - PepsiCo announced a 4% increase in its annualized dividend to $5.92 per share, marking the 54th consecutive year of dividend growth [15] - The company plans to return a total of $8.9 billion to shareholders in 2026, including $7.9 billion in dividends and $1 billion in share repurchases [23]