Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported non-GAAP earnings per share of $4.43, an increase of over 17% compared to the prior quarter [5][17] - Non-GAAP pre-tax income increased by more than 15% sequentially [5] - Gross profit margin was maintained within the sustainable range of 29% to 31% [4][5] - Operating cash flow for the second quarter was $229 million, supporting investments and shareholder returns [5][19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Tons sold in the second quarter decreased by 0.9% compared to the first quarter but increased by 4% year-over-year [10][11] - The average selling price per ton sold increased by 6.1% compared to the first quarter [11] - Shipments in non-residential construction, which represented roughly one-third of sales, increased year-over-year [12] - Aerospace products accounted for approximately 10% of sales, with stable demand in commercial aerospace [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company outperformed the service center industry's year-over-year decline of 3.1% [10] - Demand for carbon steel products peaked in April but declined for the remainder of the second quarter [11] - The semiconductor industry faced pressure due to excess inventories, impacting related shipments [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company focuses on smart profitable growth, maintaining gross profit margins while gaining market share [4][39] - Continued investments in advanced processing equipment and organic growth are prioritized [5][6] - The company is actively pursuing acquisition opportunities to expand geographic footprint and processing capabilities [6][42] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management anticipates some weakness in the third quarter due to seasonal patterns but remains confident in long-term growth [8][21] - The current trade environment provides a competitive advantage due to the company's domestic sourcing strategy [8] - Management noted that uncertainty around tariffs is affecting customer buying behavior, but they expect a return to normal patterns once resolved [50] Other Important Information - The company returned $143 million to shareholders in dividends and share repurchases during the second quarter [7] - The capital expenditure budget for 2025 is set at $325 million, with over 50% allocated to growth projects [5][6] Q&A Session Summary Question: Guidance on FIFO gross margin pressure - Management indicated that Q3 typically sees demand weakness due to seasonal patterns, but they expect year-over-year strength [27][28] Question: Customer sentiment regarding tariffs - Management noted continued activity in non-residential construction and confidence in project pipelines despite tariff uncertainties [34][35] Question: Market share gains sustainability - Management expressed confidence in sustaining market share gains through superior customer service and operational efficiency [38][39] Question: Acquisition opportunities in the current market - Management observed an uptick in acquisition activity and noted that seller expectations are aligning more closely with their valuation perspectives [41][42] Question: Aluminum pricing acceptance by customers - Management confirmed that customers are accepting higher aluminum prices, although they may be purchasing less frequently [60][61]