Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Real estate FFO was $3.05 per share in Q2 2025, a 4.1% increase from $2.93 in the prior year [10] - Domestic property NOI increased by 4.2% year over year for the quarter and 3.8% for the first half of the year [10] - Second quarter funds from operation were $1,190 million or $3.15 per share, compared to $1,090 million or $2.90 per share last year, reflecting an 8.6% growth [12] - The company raised its full year 2025 real estate FFO guidance range to $12.45 to $12.65 per share, up from $12.24 last year [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Approximately 1,000 leases were signed for over 3.6 million square feet in the quarter, with nearly 90% of leases expiring through 2025 completed [11] - Malls and premium outlets ended Q2 at 96% occupancy, up 10 basis points sequentially and 40 basis points year over year [11] - The mills achieved a record occupancy of 99.3%, an increase of 90 basis points sequentially and 110 basis points from the prior year [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Average base minimum rent for malls and outlets increased by 1.3% year over year, while mills increased by 0.6% [12] - Sales for malls and premium outlets per square foot were $736 for the quarter [12] - Traffic increased by 1.5%, although some centers near borders experienced sales and traffic weakness [70] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company focuses on creating long-term value through disciplined investments and operational excellence [6] - The acquisition of Brickell City Center was highlighted as a strategic move to enhance operations and drive NOI growth [13] - The company is actively seeking additional acquisition opportunities while maintaining a selective approach based on product and price sensitivity [40][52] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism regarding the economic environment, acknowledging the impact of tariffs and geopolitical uncertainties [62] - Despite challenges, management noted that retail demand remains strong and traffic is increasing [24][66] - The company is optimistic about the growth profile of the U.S. economy, driven by significant planned capital investments [64] Other Important Information - The company announced a dividend of $2.15 per share for Q3, a year-over-year increase of $0.10 or 4.9% [15] - The company completed 21 secured loan transactions totaling approximately $3.8 billion, with a weighted average interest rate of 5.84% [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Leasing velocity and demand insights - Management noted that retail demand is unabated despite geopolitical uncertainties, with strong traffic and sales performance [19][24] Question: Demand from smaller tenants - Management indicated that smaller tenants are performing well and beating their plans for the year, showing strong demand [30] Question: Acquisition opportunities and Brickell asset potential - Management expressed excitement about the Brickell acquisition, highlighting its strategic location and growth potential [36][39] Question: Economic outlook and guidance updates - Management remains cautious about the economic environment but is optimistic about the growth profile for 2026 [62][66] Question: Traffic growth quantification - Management reported a 1.5% increase in traffic, with some centers near borders experiencing challenges [70] Question: Supply and occupancy pipeline - Management indicated a focus on optimizing occupancy and tenant mix across all asset classes [76] Question: Interest in acquiring anchor boxes - Management clarified that while they are interested in acquiring anchor boxes, pricing and complexity of transactions are key considerations [88][90]