Summary of Schneider National 2026 Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: Schneider National (NYSE: SNDR) - **Industry**: Trucking and Logistics Key Points Market Dynamics - The trucking market is experiencing a shift towards a more balanced supply-demand equilibrium, with spot pricing remaining attractive, particularly in the Midwest and Northeast regions [7][10] - Government enforcement actions are impacting capacity, particularly in the for-hire market, with estimates suggesting a potential removal of 5%-10% of capacity [17][19] - The demand environment has been stable, with resilient consumer behavior and balanced inventory levels among customers [13][15] Financial Performance and Outlook - The company anticipates adjusted EPS for 2026 to be in the range of $0.70-$1.00, with the lower end being conservative based on current market conditions [60][63] - There is a focus on earnings growth rather than just truck growth, with productivity improvements expected to drive earnings without significantly increasing headcount [31][54] - The company aims to recover from inflationary impacts and has set a cost savings target of $40 million for 2026 [56] Business Segments - **Dedicated Business**: Focused on long-term contracts to provide stable earnings, with a strategy to improve underperforming accounts [31][32] - **Intermodal Business**: Experienced seven consecutive quarters of growth, with a focus on differentiation and partnerships, particularly in the context of the Mexico market [46][49] - **Network Business**: Currently facing challenges but is expected to improve as market conditions stabilize [68] Cost Management - The company is implementing structural cost-cutting initiatives, including a 7% reduction in non-driver headcount for 2025, with ongoing efforts to manage third-party costs [54][56] - Inflationary pressures are being mitigated, but some costs are expected to persist, particularly in healthcare and logistics [55][59] Technology and Innovation - Schneider is investing in technology, including AI, to improve operational efficiency and reduce costs [87][89] - The company believes that technological advancements will enhance its competitive position in the market [88] Strategic Partnerships and Growth Opportunities - Schneider is focused on leveraging its partnerships with rail companies to enhance its intermodal offerings and improve service reliability [45][46] - The company is open to acquisitions to further strengthen its dedicated business segment [72] Challenges and Risks - The trucking industry is facing a tight labor market, which may push up driver wages, impacting margins [40][42] - The company acknowledges the cyclical nature of the trucking industry and is focused on strategies to compound earnings through cycles [76][78] Conclusion - Schneider National is positioned to navigate the current market dynamics with a focus on productivity, cost management, and strategic growth initiatives. The company is optimistic about its ability to recover margins and achieve long-term targets as market conditions improve [65][68]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Order intake increased by 7% in Q4 2025, reflecting sustained improvement over the past year, with comparable sales growth also at 7% year-on-year [5][6] - Adjusted EBITDA margin improved by 160 basis points to 50.1% in Q4, and for the full year, it reached 12.3%, exceeding the outlook despite tariff impacts [5][6][21] - Net income for Q4 increased to EUR 397 million, with adjusted diluted earnings per share from continuing operations at EUR 0.60, a 20% year-on-year increase [24][25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Diagnosis and Treatment (D&T), comparable sales grew by 4% in Q4, with Image-Guided Therapy achieving double-digit growth [17] - Connected Care delivered 7% comparable sales growth in Q4, driven by strong demand in monitoring and enterprise informatics [18] - Personal Health saw a 14% growth in Q4, with significant contributions from grooming and beauty products [19][20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America remained the strongest growth driver, with double-digit growth in order intake across various segments [7][14] - In China, tender activity increased but faced challenges due to centralized procurement and longer processing times, leading to a cautious outlook [14][15] - Europe showed stable capital spending, while select international regions increased healthcare investments, particularly in Indonesia and India [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is transitioning to a focus on profitable growth acceleration, targeting mid-single-digit sales CAGR and mid-teens margins by 2028 [6][11] - Continued emphasis on innovation, particularly AI-enabled and patient-centric solutions, is expected to drive future growth [9][10] - The company aims to enhance patient impact and quality while simplifying operations and strengthening supply chain resilience [11][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in entering 2026 with strong order intake momentum and a robust innovation pipeline [26][81] - The outlook for 2026 includes expected comparable sales growth of 3%-4.5%, with a focus on North America and international regions [16][26] - Management remains cautious about the near-term outlook for China while recognizing its long-term growth potential [14][66] Other Important Information - The company completed the sale of its emergency care business as part of its portfolio simplification strategy [19] - A new EUR 1.5 billion productivity program is set to launch for the 2026-2028 period, building on previous productivity initiatives [29] Q&A Session Summary Question: Inquiry about gross margin improvement and order intake by modality - Management confirmed ongoing gross margin improvement across the board, with expectations for continued strength in 2026 despite tariff impacts [33][34] - Order intake for D&T was 5%, with strong contributions from Image-Guided Therapy and ultrasound, indicating a positive outlook for 2026 [37][38] Question: Clarification on 2026 guidance and margin buffers - Management acknowledged the dynamic environment and emphasized the importance of productivity and innovation for margin improvement [40][41] Question: Performance of Precision Diagnosis and Q1 phasing - Management indicated that Precision Diagnosis returned to growth, with expectations for stronger performance in 2026 driven by new innovations [48][49] - Q1 is expected to start at the lower end of the growth range due to seasonality and tariff impacts [50][51] Question: Update on personal health performance and Section 232 investigation - Strong performance in personal health was attributed to market share gains and healthy sell-out trends, with inventory levels now aligned with market averages [56][57] - The Section 232 investigation remains ongoing, with potential implications for tariffs but no definitive outcomes yet [58][59] Question: Insights on the China market and personal health margins - Management expects stabilization in China, with cautious optimism for personal health sales, while remaining cautious about health system orders [64][66] - The strong margin in personal health was driven by innovation, commercial execution, and productivity improvements [67][68]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a solid start to fiscal Q1 2026, with results modestly ahead of expectations, driven by strength in North America offsetting softness in international markets [8][10] - Organic net sales decreased by 50 basis points, with North America showing growth while international markets faced declines due to product development phasing [10][22] - Adjusted EPS was reported at a loss of $0.03, and adjusted EBITDA was $38 million, both better than the outlook [22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Organic net sales in Wet Shave declined approximately 4%, while sun and skincare organic net sales increased by approximately 8%, with sun care growing nearly 20% [22][24] - Grooming organic net sales growth was approximately 7%, led by significant growth in Cremo and Bulldog, while Wet Ones saw a decline of about 15% [24][25] - North America organic net sales grew just under 1%, driven by sun care and grooming, while international markets showed double-digit growth in Oceania and Greater China [22][23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the U.S., market share declined by 100 basis points overall, but branded volume share increased by 50 basis points, indicating some resilience in brand performance [23][24] - Outside the U.S., share gains were noted in key markets including Australia, Europe, Canada, and China, with over 70% of markets either growing or holding market share [11][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The divestiture of the feminine care business is seen as a pivotal step in the company's transformation, allowing for a sharper focus on core categories like shave, sun, skincare, and grooming [9][10] - The company aims to drive sustainable growth and stronger margins by reallocating capital and resources towards these core businesses [9][10] - The strategy includes a focus on international growth, innovation, productivity, and U.S. transformation, with plans for increased brand investment and improved distribution [12][18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in returning to organic net sales growth, driven by mid-single-digit growth in international markets and a more stable performance in North America [19][20] - The company anticipates gross margin expansion supported by productivity gains, despite facing inflationary pressures and tariff impacts [20][21] - Management remains focused on disciplined capital allocation, prioritizing free cash flow generation and debt reduction following the divestiture [35][36] Other Important Information - The company declared a quarterly dividend of $0.15 per share, returning approximately $7 million to shareholders [28] - Adjusted free cash flow is expected to be in the range of $80 million to $110 million for the year, driven by working capital improvements [35] Q&A Session Summary Question: Thoughts on portfolio construction post-Fem Care divestiture - Management highlighted the strategic move to divest the Fem Care business, which was growth dilutive and capital intensive, allowing for a more focused approach on core categories [39][40] Question: Expectations for fiscal Q2 organic sales - Management expects organic net sales to be down about 3% in Q2, with timing shifts affecting performance, but remains confident in achieving the full-year outlook [50][51] Question: Implications of Fem Care dilution into fiscal 2027 - Management discussed the transitional services agreement with Essity and the need to address stranded costs, indicating a stronger portfolio and improved cash flow recovery in fiscal 2027 [53][58] Question: Organic sales phasing and category growth expectations - Management confirmed that category growth rates remain relevant, with expectations for improved performance in the second half of the year driven by better distribution and innovation [64][66]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a revenue of R$470 million and an adjusted EBITDA of R$71.3 million, with a loss of R$61.8 million for the semester, indicating a challenging period due to high incurred expenses and low asset classification [11][30][31] - The company experienced a significant reduction in sugarcane productivity, which was a major detractor from overall performance, with losses attributed to adverse weather conditions and operational issues [30][34][38] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sugarcane production faced challenges due to frost and fire incidents, leading to lower maturity levels and productivity, with a drop from 140 kg of sugar per ton last year to 131-132 kg this year [22][38] - Cotton production was adjusted to focus on irrigated areas in Bahia, with a shift from high-cost production in volatile regions, aiming for higher productivity levels [46][48] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Brazil is expected to have a super harvest of soy, with stocks exceeding 50 million tons, impacting market prices and premium perspectives [12] - The company noted a favorable ratio for corn compared to soy, with corn prices benefiting from logistical changes in the ethanol market [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on reducing operational volatility and improving productivity through better resource allocation and technology implementation, including telemetrics [10][15] - There is a strategic emphasis on diversifying crop production to mitigate risks associated with commodity price fluctuations [24][25] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the recovery of sugarcane production in the next harvest, citing improvements in management practices and fertilizer application [50][54] - The company is cautious about pricing in the sugarcane and ethanol markets for the upcoming year but anticipates a potential recovery in the following cycles [53][54] Other Important Information - The company has a debt of R$886 million, with a net cash position of R$802 million, indicating a stable financial position despite the seasonal cash flow challenges [40][42] - The company is actively monitoring input costs and currency fluctuations to optimize operational efficiency and reduce expenses [16][17] Q&A Session Questions and Answers Question: Can you provide more information on the shift in productivity for cotton? - The company has reduced reliance on cotton in high-cost regions and is focusing on irrigated agriculture in Bahia to improve productivity [46][48] Question: What is the outlook for sugarcane recovery in the next harvest? - Management is optimistic about sugarcane recovery due to improved management practices and a focus on reducing the average age of plantations [50][54] Question: Is there a potential adjustment for the reduction of planted areas in Brazil? - The company acknowledges external factors affecting planted areas and believes that a more rational approach will emerge as external pressures are alleviated [62]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported consolidated net sales of $1.07 billion for Q4, a decrease of 0.9% from the previous year, primarily due to lower shipments and prior-year divestitures, partially offset by net price realization [21] - For the full year, total consolidated net sales were $4.5 billion, down 1.6% from fiscal 2024, largely due to strategic divestitures [7] - Adjusted diluted earnings per share for Q4 were $0.91, compared to $0.95 in the prior year, reflecting higher expenses related to employee incentive compensation [23] - Full-year adjusted earnings per diluted share were $4.20, slightly up from $4.17 in fiscal 2024 [24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Professional segment net sales for Q4 were $910 million, virtually unchanged from the previous year, with earnings margin at 19.2%, up 60 basis points year-over-year [17] - Residential segment net sales for Q4 were $147 million, down 5.1% from the prior year, but exceeded expectations due to net price realization [20] - Full-year professional segment net sales rose 1.9% to $3.62 billion, with earnings margin improving to 19.4% from 18% in fiscal 2024 [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is focusing on key growth markets, particularly in golf, grounds, and underground specialty construction, anticipating a multi-year growth trajectory [8] - The acquisition of Tornado Infrastructure Equipment is expected to enhance the company's position in the underground construction market [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to enhance customer productivity through investments in technology and innovation, with a focus on operational excellence and cost savings [5][10] - The AMP program has been expanded, with a new savings target of $125 million by the end of 2026, up from the previous target of $100 million [11] - The company is committed to maintaining strong profit margins and market competitiveness through productivity improvements and selective price increases [10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism about the macroeconomic environment, noting potential pressures from inflation and interest rates on consumer confidence [29] - For fiscal 2026, the company expects total net sales to rise by 2%-5%, with professional segment sales anticipated to grow mid-single digits and residential segment sales expected to decline low to mid-single digits [30] - The company is confident in its ability to navigate cost pressures while continuing to invest in innovation [31] Other Important Information - The company achieved record free cash flow of $578 million for the year, with a conversion rate of 146% [12] - A quarterly dividend increase from $0.38 to $0.39 was announced, along with a share repurchase authorization of up to six million shares [34] Q&A Session Summary Question: Guidance on sales growth and volume expectations - Management acknowledged that a portion of the sales growth is attributed to the Tornado acquisition and indicated continued strength in the professional segment, particularly in underground construction [52][54] Question: Improvement expectations in residential segment - Management expects some recovery in the residential segment, influenced by macroeconomic factors and potential restocking in the channel [57][60] Question: Details on the AMP program and additional savings - Management confirmed that the additional $25 million in savings is achievable through ongoing operational efficiency initiatives without needing volume growth [61][62] Question: Raw material cost expectations for 2026 - Management anticipates some inflation in raw material costs early in the year, with expectations of stabilization by mid-year [66] Question: Channel inventory status - Management reported that channel inventories are in good shape, with improved lead times contributing to customer confidence [73][80] Question: Margin guidance for professional segment - Management indicated that while some benefits from the AMP program will continue, the addition of Tornado may not be fully accretive to operating margin in the first year [81][82]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4 2025, the company achieved organic net sales growth of 2.5%, aligning with expectations despite external pressures [7][22] - Adjusted gross margin rate decreased by 330 basis points, primarily due to unexpected year-end inventory adjustments and increased trade promotions [26][28] - Adjusted operating income was $40.3 million, representing 7.5% of net sales, down from 10.8% the previous year [28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - International organic net sales grew by 6.9%, driven by volume and price gains across all segments [22] - North America experienced a decline in organic net sales by 60 basis points, with wet shave sales declining approximately 1% [23] - Sun and skin care organic net sales increased by approximately 11%, with robust growth across each business segment [24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - International markets, representing about 40% of global sales, delivered strong growth for the fourth consecutive year, with Europe achieving its third straight year of growth [8][9] - The U.S. razor and blades category saw consumption down by 80 basis points, although market share improved sequentially [23] - The Billie brand achieved a 90 basis point share growth, indicating strong retail performance [24] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to divest its feminine care business to focus on core categories with competitive advantages, including shave, sun, and skincare [6][20] - A multi-year innovation roadmap is being implemented, with significant investments in brand building and marketing to restore brand equity [11][14] - The transformation plan aims to simplify the U.S. structure, enhance decision-making speed, and increase investment in growth capabilities [12][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged a challenging fiscal 2025 due to external pressures like tariffs and geopolitical tensions, but expressed optimism about durable international growth and innovation [8][20] - The outlook for fiscal 2026 anticipates a return to organic net sales growth, driven by mid-single-digit growth in international markets and stabilization in North America [16][34] - The company expects to face continued inflation and tariff impacts but is focused on productivity gains and margin recovery [16][36] Other Important Information - The company declared a quarterly dividend of $0.15 per share for Q4 and completed approximately $90 million in share repurchases for the fiscal year [29] - The anticipated divestiture of the feminine care business is expected to impact adjusted EPS by approximately $0.40-$0.50 annually [32] Q&A Session Summary Question: Outlook and EPS Expectations - The company expects a balanced and achievable plan for 2026, with EPS potentially at a loss in Q1 due to margin pressures and tax rate changes [40][41] Question: Strategy and Portfolio Focus - The strategy focuses on winning in shave, grooming, sun, and skin categories, with plans for potential M&A as asset values decline [45][46] Question: Productivity and Gross Margin Concerns - Management expressed confidence in the second-half-oriented plan, expecting higher sales growth and productivity improvements to enhance gross margin [50][52] Question: Use of Proceeds from Divestiture - Proceeds from the feminine care sale will primarily be used for debt reduction, with a focus on maintaining a disciplined capital allocation strategy [54][55] Question: Sun and Skin Category Outlook - The company plans conservatively for the sun category, expecting low single-digit growth while investing in brand campaigns for Hawaiian Tropic and Banana Boat [57][58]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported earnings per share (EPS) of $12.03, which is above the midpoint of the full-year fiscal guidance range [5] - Operating income margin was 23.7%, and return on capital (ROC) was 10.1%, both in line with commitments [5] - The EPS decreased by $0.40 or 3% from the prior year, primarily due to a 4% headwind from LNG divestiture and a 2% headwind from project exits [16][19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Americas segment results were down 3%, impacted by a one-time asset sale and project exits, but offset by strong non-helium pricing and productivity improvements [17] - Asia's results were relatively flat, with lower helium demand offset by favorable pricing and productivity [18] - Europe's results improved by 4%, driven by non-helium merchant pricing and productivity, despite lower helium contributions [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company faced a 2% headwind from reduced global helium demand, affecting overall volume [15] - The market for green ammonia is developing, with expectations for significant demand growth by 2030 [11][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims for high single-digit annual EPS growth and plans to optimize its large projects portfolio, including the NEOM project [6][7] - Capital expenditures are expected to be reduced to approximately $2.5 billion per year after completing several large projects, allowing for ongoing maintenance and investments in traditional industrial gas projects [7][10] - The company is focusing on productivity improvements and has identified 3,600 headcount reductions, translating to approximately $250 million in annual cost savings [8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged challenges from helium headwinds and a sluggish macroeconomic environment but remains optimistic about achieving growth through new asset contributions and pricing actions [19][21] - The company expects to be modestly cash flow positive in fiscal year 2026 and aims to stay cash flow neutral through 2028 [21] Other Important Information - The NEOM project is about 90% complete, with ammonia production expected to start in 2027 [11] - The company is evaluating proposals to divest the carbon sequestration piece of the Louisiana project, linking it to potential hydrogen supply agreements [24][25] Q&A Session Summary Question: Evaluation of Carbon Capture in Louisiana Project - The company is considering selling the carbon capture piece and potentially supplying hydrogen to the buyer [24][25] Question: Alberta Project Cost Overruns - The company has a long-term commitment to supply hydrogen to a major customer, necessitating the completion of the project despite cost overruns [26][27] Question: Headcount Reduction Target - The target of 20,000 headcount is expected to be the new base, with ongoing efforts to optimize workforce levels [31] Question: CapEx for Louisiana Project - The company will provide CapEx data when updating the project, emphasizing that no off-take deals mean no final investment decision [32] Question: Growth Drivers for Next Year - Expected growth will come from new assets and pricing actions, with a minimal volume growth forecast due to macroeconomic headwinds [37][39] Question: Helium Market Outlook - The company anticipates continued headwinds from helium but expects stabilization in 2027 [40][41] Question: NEOM Project Commercialization - The company plans to commercialize ammonia initially, with expectations for a growing market for green ammonia [44][45] Question: Equity Affiliates Income - The Mexican joint venture saw improvements, while contributions from the Jazan joint venture are expected to pick up in 2026 [46][47] Question: Decision Timeline for Louisiana Project - The company is working on advanced negotiations and aims to communicate updates before the end of the year [50][53] Question: CapEx Flexibility - The CapEx forecast for fiscal 2026 is between $3.5 billion and $4 billion, with no significant changes expected [91][92]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported earnings per share (EPS) of $12.03, which is above the midpoint of the full-year fiscal guidance range [4] - Operating income margin was 23.7%, and return on capital (ROC) was 10.1%, both in line with commitments [4] - The EPS decreased by $0.40 or 3% from the prior year, primarily due to a 4% headwind from LNG divestiture and a 2% headwind from project exits [16][19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Americas segment results were down 3%, impacted by a one-time asset sale and project exits [17] - Asia's results were relatively flat, with lower helium offset by favorable on-site contributions [18] - Europe's results improved by 4%, driven by non-helium merchant pricing and productivity [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company faced a 2% headwind from reduced global helium demand, affecting overall volume [14] - Pricing for non-helium merchant products was favorable across all regions, helping to offset some volume declines [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims for high single-digit annual EPS growth in 2026, despite anticipated helium headwinds [5] - Key priorities include optimizing the large projects portfolio, particularly the NEOM project, and balancing capital allocation [5][6] - Capital expenditures are expected to be reduced to approximately $2.5 billion per year after completing several large projects [6] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about returning to staffing levels similar to 2018, adjusted for employee growth, to support new assets [7] - The company is focused on improving productivity and pricing actions to counteract inflation and lower capital expenditure levels [8] - Management anticipates a modestly cash flow positive position in fiscal year 2026, with a commitment to remain cash flow neutral through 2028 [20] Other Important Information - The company returned $1.6 billion to shareholders in fiscal 2025, marking the 43rd consecutive year of increasing dividends [4] - The NEOM project is about 90% complete, with ammonia production expected to start in 2027 [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: Evaluation of carbon capture piece of the Louisiana project - Management explained that they are evaluating proposals to divest the carbon capture piece while still considering the project's future [24][25] Question: Cost overruns in Alberta project - Management confirmed a long-term commitment to supply hydrogen to a major customer, necessitating the project's completion despite cost overruns [26][27] Question: Employee headcount target - The target of 20,000 headcount is expected to be the new base, with ongoing efforts to rationalize the workforce [31] Question: CapEx remaining for Louisiana project - Management indicated that they would provide data on remaining CapEx when updating the project, emphasizing the need for off-take agreements [33] Question: Growth drivers for next year - Management expects contributions from new assets and productivity improvements to drive growth, with a focus on pricing actions [37][38] Question: Helium industry outlook - Management noted that while there may be a decline in helium demand in 2027, they expect stabilization thereafter [40][42] Question: NEOM project commercial options - Management stated that they will need to commercialize the product as ammonia initially, with expectations for growth in green ammonia sales over time [46] Question: Equity affiliates income growth - Management highlighted strong performance from the Mexican joint venture, with expectations for flat contributions in fiscal year 2026 [48] Question: Decision timeline for Louisiana project - Management confirmed that they are working on advanced negotiations and expect to communicate updates by the end of the year [52][56] Question: CapEx forecast changes - Management clarified that the CapEx forecast for fiscal 2026 was adjusted to $4 billion based on a refined bottom-up review [62]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported record financial results, with revenue of $3.1 billion, adjusted earnings of $1.1 billion ($2.16 per share), and adjusted EBITDA of $2.1 billion, all driven by record gold prices and strong operational performance [10][11][12] - Year-to-date average cash costs were $943 per ounce, with a projected full-year cash cost guidance range of $9.65 per ounce [5][12] - The net cash position increased to $2.2 billion after repaying $400 million of debt and returning $350 million to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases [6][15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Gold production for Q3 was approximately 867,000 ounces, achieving 77% of the full-year production guidance [4][11] - Cash costs for Q3 were reported at $994 per ounce, influenced by higher royalty costs due to increased gold prices [4][11] - All-in sustaining costs were reported at $1,373 per ounce, with expectations to remain close to the top end of the guidance range for the full year [12][13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The average selling price of gold was $3,476 per ounce, which is $20 per ounce higher than the spot average for the quarter [4] - The company is benefiting from record gold prices, which have led to increased royalty expenses [11][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on maintaining a strong balance sheet while investing in a robust pipeline of projects and an ambitious exploration program [2][6] - Key projects include Canadian Malartic, Detour, Upper Beaver, Hope Bay, and San Nicolas, which are expected to generate significant production and returns [7][17] - The company aims to improve productivity and operational efficiency through technology integration and workforce engagement [19][30] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term outlook for gold, citing ongoing factors that support gold's performance [47][48] - The company is committed to disciplined capital allocation and exploring opportunities for value creation through M&A, while maintaining a focus on gold [48][49] Other Important Information - The company received a credit rating upgrade from Moody's from Baa1 to A3 with a stable outlook [15] - The company is actively addressing labor shortages through workforce planning and training initiatives [31][32] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you talk about the non-core investments in critical minerals? - The company is establishing a subsidiary for critical minerals, which will include investments like Canada Nickel, focusing on knowledge-based opportunities while remaining primarily a gold company [51][52][53] Question: How are government relations with the new federal government in Canada? - The company has had positive interactions with the new government, noting increased engagement and discussions about the mining sector's contributions to Canada [54][55][56] Question: What are the expectations for Hope Bay's resource update by year-end? - The company expects to deliver a PEA study in the first half of next year and will update indicated and inferred resources by year-end [61][62] Question: What are the inflation expectations going into next year? - The company anticipates cost inflation around 6%-7% across various components, with higher costs expected due to increased royalty expenses [63][64][65] Question: Can you review the rigs operating across the company? - The company has 120 rigs operating across various sites, with expectations to reach 1.25 million to 1.3 million meters drilled by year-end [70][72] Question: What is the reserve and resource replacement outlook for year-end 2025? - The company expects to see net growth in reserves and resources, particularly at East Goldie, Detour, and Hope Bay, despite mining depletion [77][78]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported record financial results driven by record gold prices, achieving revenue of $3.1 billion, adjusted earnings of $1.1 billion ($2.16 per share), and adjusted EBITDA of $2.1 billion [10][12][15] - Gold production for Q3 was approximately 867,000 ounces, with cash costs reported at $994 per ounce, which is higher than the previous quarter primarily due to increased royalty costs [4][11] - Year-to-date average cash costs are $943 per ounce, and if excluding the impact of higher royalties, the average would be $909 per ounce, well below the guidance range [5][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved strong production performance across its operations, with specific mentions of record production at Meadowbank, Meliadine, and Goldex [18] - The Detour project is progressing well, with the ramp portal built and optimization of the mill ongoing [6][29] - The exploration program is robust, with over 370,000 meters drilled in Q3, exceeding the year-to-date target by 9% [37] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The average selling price of gold was $3,476 per ounce, which is $20 higher than the spot average for the quarter [4] - The company is benefiting from a favorable gold price environment, which has led to increased royalty expenses but also significant revenue growth [11][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on maintaining a strong balance sheet, having repaid $400 million of debt and returned $350 million to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases [6][15] - There is a continued emphasis on productivity improvements and cost control, with investments in technology and workforce training to enhance operational efficiency [19][31] - The company is strategically positioned for growth with a strong project pipeline, including key projects like Detour, Upper Beaver, and Hope Bay, which are expected to generate solid returns [16][26][36] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term outlook for gold, citing ongoing factors that support gold's performance [47] - The company is actively engaging with the new Canadian government, noting improved access and discussions regarding the mining sector's contributions to the economy [55][56] - There is a focus on disciplined capital allocation and exploring opportunities for value creation through M&A, while maintaining a primary focus on gold [48][49] Other Important Information - The company generated $1.2 billion in free cash flow in Q3 and increased its net cash position to $2.2 billion [14][15] - The credit rating was upgraded from Baa1 to A3, reflecting the company's strong financial position [15] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you talk about the non-core investments in critical minerals? - Management confirmed that Canada Nickel will be included in a new subsidiary focused on critical minerals, allowing for independent exploration of opportunities while maintaining a focus on gold [51][52] Question: How are government relations with the new federal government in Canada? - Management reported positive interactions with the new government, highlighting increased engagement and discussions on the mining sector's potential contributions [54][56] Question: What are the expectations for Hope Bay's resource update by year-end? - Management indicated that a PEA study is expected in the first half of next year, with updates on indicated and inferred resources to follow [60][61] Question: What inflation expectations are anticipated for next year? - Management expects inflation across costs to be around 6% to 7%, with ongoing efforts to manage costs effectively [62][63] Question: Can you review the rigs operating across the company? - Management confirmed 120 rigs are operational across various sites, with an increase in productivity allowing for more meters drilled without additional costs [67][69] Question: What is the status of reserve and resource replacement for year-end 2025? - Management anticipates a net growth in reserves despite mining depletion, with specific increases expected at East Goldie and resource growth at Detour and Hope Bay [75][76]