Expansion in 2026 Forecasted to Exceed 5,000 Retail Outlets Nationwide as Consumers Demonstrate Interest in VLN® Brands VLN® Remains the Only FDA-Authorized Combustible Cigarette Designed to Reduce Nicotine Consumption MOCKSVILLE, N.C., Feb. 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- 22nd Century Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: XXII), a tobacco products company focused on reducing the harms of smoking through nicotine reduction, today announced continued early sales momentum for its VLN® low nicotine cigarette products in the U.S. ...

Championing a Smoke-Free World CAGNY Conference February 18, 2026 Jacek Olczak, Group CEO PMI Emmanuel Babeau, Group CFO PMI Introduction • A glossary of terms as well as adjustments, other calculations and reconciliations to the most directly comparable U.S. GAAP measures for non-GAAP financial measures cited in this presentation are available on our Investor Relations website with additional non-GAAP reconciliations available at the end of this presentation 2 Introduction • A glossary of terms as well as ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Group revenue increased by 2.1%, adjusted profit rose by 3.4%, adjusted profit from operations grew by 2.3%, and adjusted diluted EPS was up by 3.4% [8][17] - The company delivered results at the top end of guidance, supported by accelerated momentum through the second half of the year [6][8] - Adjusted operating profit grew by nearly 10%, driven by operating leverage and efficiency gains in combustibles [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - New categories revenue grew by 7%, driven by outstanding growth in Modern Oral, which was up strongly by 48%, while Heated Products increased by 1% [8][10] - Combustibles revenue grew by 1%, with volume decline more than offset by a robust price mix across markets [9][10] - Vapor revenue declined by nearly 9%, mainly due to continued illicit pressures in the U.S. and Canada [8][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the U.S., combustibles revenue increased by 4.6%, with a value share increase of 30 basis points [10][11] - New category revenue in the U.S. grew nearly 20%, driven by the success of VELO+, which delivered over 300% growth [10][11] - In AME, revenue grew over 3%, with combustibles up more than 2%, supported by strong delivery in Brazil, Turkey, and Mexico [11][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to become a predominantly smokeless business by 2035, focusing on premium innovation and quality growth [20][21] - The Fit to Win program is expected to deliver GBP 600 million of annualized incremental savings by 2028, with a focus on optimizing processes and improving execution [15][16] - The company is committed to reinvesting savings to support further sustainable growth initiatives [15][18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in returning to the Midterm Algorithm in 2026, with expectations of 3%-5% revenue growth and 4%-6% adjusted profit from operations growth [18][19] - The company is optimistic about the growth potential in Modern Oral and the performance of VELO+ in the U.S. market [22][23] - Management acknowledged challenges in the APMEA region but expects stabilization in performance as regulatory headwinds lessen [13][14] Other Important Information - The company announced an increase in share buyback to GBP 1.3 billion for 2026 and a 2% increase in dividends [3][17] - The company has delivered GBP 1.2 billion in productivity savings since 2023, helping to offset inflationary pressures [15][14] - The company remains on track to generate more than GBP 50 billion in free cash flow by the end of 2030 [18][33] Q&A Session Questions and Answers Question: Expectations for Modern Oral performance in the U.S. for fiscal 2026 - Management believes that the strong retention rate of VELO+ and increasing average daily consumption indicate continued growth potential in the U.S. market [39][40] Question: Factors that could improve performance guidance for 2026 - Management highlighted the potential for improved enforcement in the vapor category and the expected growth in new categories as key factors for better performance [46][49] Question: Insights on heated tobacco share progression in 2026 - Management acknowledged the competitive landscape but expressed confidence in the revamped product offerings, including glo HYLO, to strengthen market position [47][48]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In 2025, adjusted diluted earnings per share grew by 4.4% and the company returned $8 billion to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases combined [4] - The smokable product segment delivered over $11 billion in adjusted operating income (OCI) for the full year, expanding adjusted OCI margins by 1.8 percentage points to 63.4% [18] - For the fourth quarter, adjusted OCI declined by 2.4%, and adjusted OCI margins contracted by 0.8 percentage points to 60.4% [18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Domestic cigarette volumes declined by 7.9% in the fourth quarter and 10% for the full year [18] - The oral tobacco product segment retail share was 29.6% for the fourth quarter and 31.9% for the full year [23] - Total segment reported shipment volume decreased 6.3% for the fourth quarter and 5.5% for the full year [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The estimated number of adult consumers in the e-vapor and oral tobacco categories grew to almost 30 million, reflecting the potential for tobacco harm reduction in the U.S. [7] - The e-vapor category grew approximately 15% in 2025, with illicit products representing approximately 70% of the category [8] - The nicotine pouch category drove overall oral tobacco volume growth, which increased an estimated 14% over the past six months [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on advancing its smoke-free portfolio and building a portfolio of FDA-authorized smoke-free products for adult smokers [16] - Strategic collaborations, such as with KT&G, aim to enhance international modern oral and U.S. non-nicotine growth [5] - The company plans to maintain a measured approach to investments in e-vapor until the regulatory framework is functioning effectively [10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the growth in disposable vapers moderated in 2025 compared to the prior year, indicating a potential stabilization in the market [9] - The company expects to deliver 2026 full year adjusted diluted EPS in a range of $5.56-$5.72, reflecting a growth rate of 2.5%-5.5% from a $5.42 base in 2025 [16] - Management expressed confidence in the company's strategy and the opportunities ahead, emphasizing the importance of responsible participation in the e-vapor category [17] Other Important Information - The company recorded non-cash impairment charges of $1.3 billion related to e-vapor definite-lived intangible assets and goodwill [23] - The company paid $7 billion in dividends in 2025, marking its 60th increase in the last 56 years [25] - The total debt-to-EBITDA ratio as of December 31 was 2x, in line with the company's target [25] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide any color on the scope of the import/export program? - Management indicated that the program involves both upfront investments and the opportunity for duty drawback, setting up manufacturing capabilities for international markets [32] Question: Is the elevated CapEx associated with the investments for import/export? - Management confirmed that the primary driver of the increase in CapEx is the investments for the import/export business, but they did not provide guidance for future CapEx [34] Question: How is the promotional strategy behind Basic affecting net price realization? - Management clarified that the strategy around Basic is independent of the duty drawback and is aimed at capturing consumers under economic pressure [41] Question: Are there any signs of increased smoking incidence among younger legal-aged nicotine users? - Management stated that there are no trends indicating increased incidence among younger cohorts, emphasizing the need for expedited authorization of smoke-free products [52] Question: What is the pricing strategy for on! PLUS? - Management believes that on! PLUS is a differentiated product that commands a premium in the marketplace, with various introductory price promotions planned [53]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In 2025, adjusted diluted earnings per share grew by 4.4% and the company returned $8 billion to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases combined [4] - The smokable product segment delivered over $11 billion in adjusted operating income (OCI) for the full year, expanding adjusted OCI margins by 1.8 percentage points to 63.4% [18] - For the fourth quarter, adjusted OCI declined by 2.4%, and adjusted OCI margins contracted by 0.8 percentage points to 60.4% [18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Domestic cigarette volumes declined by 7.9% in the fourth quarter and 10% for the full year [18] - The oral tobacco product segment reported a shipment volume decrease of 6.3% for the fourth quarter and 5.5% for the full year [22] - Nicotine pouches drove overall oral tobacco volume growth, which increased an estimated 14% over the past six months [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The estimated number of adult consumers in the e-vapor and oral tobacco categories grew to almost 30 million, reflecting the potential for tobacco harm reduction in the U.S. [7] - The e-vapor category grew approximately 15% in 2025, with illicit products representing approximately 70% of the category [8] - The nicotine pouch category saw a retail share of 29.6% for the fourth quarter and 31.9% for the full year [23] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on advancing its smoke-free portfolio and building a portfolio of FDA-authorized smoke-free products for adult smokers [16] - Strategic collaborations, such as with KT&G, aim to enhance international modern oral and U.S. non-nicotine growth [5] - The company plans to maintain a measured approach to investments in e-vapor until the regulatory framework is functioning effectively [10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the growth in disposable vapers moderated in 2025, with a 10% increase compared to over 40% in 2024 [9] - The company expects to deliver 2026 full year adjusted diluted EPS in a range of $5.56-$5.72, representing a growth rate of 2.5%-5.5% from a $5.42 base in 2025 [16] - Management expressed confidence in the company's strategy and the opportunities ahead, emphasizing the importance of responsible participation in the e-vapor category [17] Other Important Information - The company recorded non-cash impairment charges of $1.3 billion related to e-vapor definite-lived intangible assets and goodwill [23] - The company paid $7 billion in dividends in 2025, marking its 60th increase in the last 56 years [25] - The total debt-to-EBITDA ratio as of December 31 was 2x, in line with the company's target [25] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide any color on the scope of the import/export program? - Management indicated that the program involves both upfront investments and opportunities for duty drawback, setting up manufacturing capabilities for international markets [32] Question: Is the increase in CapEx a one-time increase or a multiyear higher level? - Management confirmed that the increase is primarily driven by investments for the import/export business, but future CapEx guidance was not provided [34] Question: How is the promotional strategy behind Basic affecting net price realization? - Management clarified that the strategy for Basic is independent of the duty drawback and is aimed at capturing consumers under economic pressure [41] Question: What is the strategy for Marlboro given the drop in retail share? - Management emphasized the importance of maximizing profitability while making appropriate investments in Marlboro and growth categories [46] Question: Are there any trends in smoking incidence among younger legal-aged nicotine users? - Management noted that there are no significant trends observed in the data regarding increased smoking incidence among younger cohorts [52] Question: What is the pricing strategy for on! PLUS? - Management believes on! PLUS is a differentiated product that commands a premium in the marketplace, with various introductory price promotions planned [53]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In 2025, adjusted diluted earnings per share grew by 4.4% and the company returned $8 billion to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases combined [4][24] - The smokable product segment delivered over $11 billion in adjusted operating income (OCI) for the full year, expanding adjusted OCI margins by 1.8 percentage points to 63.4% [16] - For the fourth quarter, adjusted OCI declined by 2.4%, and adjusted OCI margins contracted by 0.8 percentage points to 60.4% [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Domestic cigarette volumes declined by 7.9% in the fourth quarter and 10% for the full year [16] - The oral tobacco product segment retail share was 29.6% for the fourth quarter and 31.9% for the full year [21] - Total segment reported shipment volume decreased 6.3% for the fourth quarter and 5.5% for the full year [21] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The estimated number of adult consumers in the e-vapor and oral tobacco categories grew to almost 30 million, reflecting the potential for tobacco harm reduction in the U.S. [6] - The e-vapor category grew approximately 15% in 2025, with illicit products representing approximately 70% of the category [7][8] - The nicotine pouch category grew an estimated 14% over the past six months, with oral nicotine pouches now representing nearly 57% of the total oral category [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on advancing its smoke-free portfolio and building new pathways for long-term growth in international modern oral and non-nicotine innovations [15] - Strategic investments in retail merchandising and product innovation are planned to support the national launch of on! PLUS in 2026 [12] - The company intends to maintain a measured approach to investments in e-vapor until the regulatory framework is functioning effectively [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the primary driver of industry and smoke-free growth continues to be the widespread availability of illicit flavored, disposable e-vapor products [6] - The company expects to deliver 2026 full year adjusted diluted EPS in a range of $5.56-$5.72, representing a growth rate of 2.5%-5.5% from a $5.42 base in 2025 [14] - Management expressed confidence in the company's strategy and the opportunities ahead, emphasizing the importance of responsible participation in the e-vapor category [15] Other Important Information - The company recorded non-cash impairment charges of $1.3 billion related to e-vapor definite-lived intangible assets and goodwill [22] - The company paid $7 billion in dividends in 2025, marking its 60th increase in the last 56 years [24] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide any color on the scope of the import/export program? - Management indicated that the program involves both upfront investments and the opportunity for duty drawback, setting up manufacturing capabilities for international markets [31] Question: Is the elevated CapEx associated with the investments for import/export a one-time increase? - Management confirmed that the primary driver of the increase is the investments for the import/export business, but they are not guiding for future CapEx [33] Question: How is the promotional strategy behind Basic affecting net price realization? - Management clarified that the strategy around Basic is independent of the duty drawback and is aimed at capturing consumers under economic pressure [40] Question: Are there any signs of increased smoking incidence among younger legal-aged nicotine users? - Management stated that there are no trends indicating increased smoking incidence among younger cohorts, emphasizing the need for expedited product authorizations [50] Question: What is the pricing strategy for on! PLUS? - Management believes on! PLUS is a differentiated product that commands a premium in the marketplace, with various introductory price promotions planned [51]

Core Insights - 2025 was a pivotal year for 22nd Century Group, marking the end of a multi-year restructuring and the beginning of strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening its leadership in tobacco harm reduction [1][5] Tobacco Harm Reduction - The company is committed to leading the tobacco harm reduction movement through science-based innovation and responsible commercialization of reduced nicotine content combustibles [2] - The proprietary VLN reduced-nicotine cigarette platform is the only combustible cigarette authorized by the FDA as a Modified Risk Tobacco Product, containing approximately 95% less nicotine than conventional cigarettes [3][9] Consumer Feedback and Market Response - Early feedback from consumers indicates positive reception of VLN products, with some reporting significant reductions in cigarette consumption, including one individual who reduced consumption by approximately 66% in just 12 weeks [4] Strategic and Operational Progress - The company has made significant progress in executing its strategic priorities, focusing on sustainable profitability and improving its long-term financial outlook [5] - Transitioning to higher-margin branded products, expanding VLN product distribution to nearly 2,000 retail locations across over 20 states, and implementing cost-reduction initiatives have contributed to operational efficiency [7] Regulatory Landscape - The FDA proposed a rule to establish a maximum nicotine content for cigarettes, which could reshape the combustible tobacco market and aligns with the company's focus on reduced-nicotine products [8] - The VLN products are specifically designed to meet low nicotine thresholds, supported by scientific research and FDA authorization, highlighting the strategic relevance of the company's harm-reduction platform [9] Outlook for 2026 - As the company enters 2026, it aims to leverage regulatory momentum, consumer awareness, and its differentiated product portfolio to create long-term value [10]

Summary of British American Tobacco (NYSE:BTI) Conference Call - December 09, 2025 Company Overview - **Company**: British American Tobacco (BAT) - **Date**: December 09, 2025 - **Key Speakers**: Victoria Buxton (Group Head of Investor Relations), Tadeu Marocco (Chief Executive), Javed Iqbal (Interim Chief Financial Officer) Key Industry Insights - **Industry**: Global nicotine industry, particularly focusing on combustibles, modern oral products, and vapor categories - **Market Dynamics**: The industry is experiencing a transformation with adult smokers increasingly switching to new categories, particularly modern oral products and vapor Core Points and Arguments 1. **Revenue and Profit Growth**: BAT expects around 2% revenue and adjusted operating profit growth for the full year 2025, with positive momentum in the U.S. business driven by combustibles and VLO Plus performance [2][3] 2. **New Category Growth**: Anticipated acceleration in new category revenue growth to double digits in the second half of 2025, with mid-single-digit growth expected for the full year [2][3] 3. **Modern Oral Products**: Modern Oral is the fastest-growing category, with VLO gaining volume share up 590 basis points to 31.8% in key markets. The category is positioned as a lower-risk alternative to traditional cigarettes [4][5] 4. **FDA Support**: The FDA is recognized for its role in tobacco harm reduction, with a commitment to provide science-based information about nicotine products, which is expected to facilitate consumer transitions to reduced harm products [5][6] 5. **Velo Plus Performance**: Velo Plus has achieved significant growth, reaching a 21.9% volume share in October, up from 6.9% prior to its launch, and is driving triple-digit revenue growth in the U.S. [6][7] 6. **Heated Products**: The heated products segment is undergoing a transitional phase, with a new product, glo Halo, launched in Japan, aimed at capturing the premium segment [9][10] 7. **Vapor Category Recovery**: Vuse has regained volume and revenue growth in the U.S. after 18 months of decline, with a 50.4% value share, supported by increased federal enforcement against illicit products [11][12] 8. **Combustibles Performance**: The U.S. combustibles business is expected to deliver revenue and profit growth for the first time since 2022, with a decline in industry volume improving compared to previous years [15][16] 9. **Regulatory Challenges**: Significant regulatory headwinds in markets like Bangladesh and Australia are expected to impact overall revenue growth, with illicit trade accounting for over 85% of nicotine usage in these regions [16][17] 10. **Financial Discipline**: BAT maintains a strong cash generation profile, with operating cash conversion expected to exceed 95% in 2025 and a commitment to deleveraging [17][18] Additional Important Insights - **Market Exit Strategy**: BAT plans to exit underperforming markets like Mozambique and Cuba, which will impact organic growth figures [28][37] - **Investment in Innovation**: Continued investment in premium products and innovation is prioritized, with a focus on maintaining competitive advantages in the market [30][31] - **Future Guidance**: For 2026, BAT expects to achieve revenue growth at the lower end of its mid-term algorithm, with a focus on sustainable financial delivery and transformation [19][35] Conclusion - BAT is optimistic about its growth trajectory, particularly in the U.S. market, and is committed to delivering sustainable shareholder value through dividends and share buybacks while navigating regulatory challenges and market dynamics [18][47]

Core Insights - The company has achieved significant balance sheet improvement, becoming debt-free and receiving $9.5 million in non-dilutive cash from an insurance settlement [4][6][11] - The third quarter marks a strategic pivot towards a branded products strategy, with an increasing store count and new distribution agreements for VLN® products [2][4] - The company aims to lead the Tobacco Harm Reduction Movement by offering low nicotine products, aligning with FDA mandates [3][4] Financial Performance - Net revenues for Q3 2025 decreased slightly to $4.0 million from $4.1 million in Q2 2025, while gross profit showed a loss of $(1.1) million compared to $(0.6) million [6][12] - Operating expenses decreased to $2.2 million from $2.3 million, but operating loss increased to $3.2 million from $3.0 million [6][12] - Consolidated net income increased to $5.5 million, reflecting the $9.5 million insurance settlement, compared to a net loss of $3.4 million in the previous quarter [6][12] Product Line and Market Expansion - Cigarette net revenues were $2.5 million, down from $2.7 million, while VLN® cigarette revenues increased by $0.2 million due to initial stocking orders [7][12] - The company has expanded market access for VLN® and Partner VLN® brand launches, with state authorizations now including 45 states for 22nd Century VLN® and 38 states for Smoker Friendly VLN® [11][12] - The company is advancing plans for new product formats and international offerings, including a 100mm format for VLN® cigarettes [11][12] Balance Sheet and Cash Position - The company ended Q3 2025 with cash of $4.8 million and no outstanding debt, having extinguished $3.9 million of senior secured debt [6][12] - The recent insurance settlement has significantly improved the company's cash position, providing a solid foundation for future growth [4][6][12]

Financial Performance - For the third quarter, adjusted diluted earnings per share increased by 3.6%, and for the first nine months, it grew by 5.9% [5][20] - Adjusted operating companies income (OCI) for the smokeable products segment grew by 0.7% to nearly $3 billion in the third quarter and by 2.5% to $8.4 billion for the first nine months [20] - Adjusted OCI margins expanded to 64.4% for both the third quarter and first nine months, representing margin growth of 1.3 percentage points and 2.7 percentage points, respectively [20] Business Segment Performance - Domestic cigarette volumes declined by 8.2% in the third quarter and 10.6% for the first nine months when adjusted for trade inventory movements and calendar differences [21][22] - Marlboro expanded its share of the premium segment by 0.3 to 59.6% in the third quarter, while the discount segment of the industry expanded by 2.4 share points year over year, with Basic capturing over half of that growth [22][23] - In the oral tobacco products segment, adjusted OCI declined by less than 1% in the third quarter, but adjusted OCI margin expanded by 2.4 percentage points to 69.2% for the first nine months [24][25] Market Data - The nicotine pouch category saw an estimated 14.5% increase in industry volume over the past six months, with ON's retail share of the total oral tobacco category at 8.7% for the third quarter [6][8] - The e-vapor category included approximately 21 million vapers at the end of the third quarter, up nearly 2 million from a year ago, with flavored disposable e-vapor products representing over 60% of the category [13][15] Company Strategy and Industry Competition - The company announced a collaboration with KT&G to explore opportunities in international innovative smoke-free products and non-nicotine products [5][18] - The FDA's pilot program to streamline PMTA reviews for oral nicotine pouches is seen as a positive development, with ON+ applications included in the program [16][17] Management Commentary on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that consumers are under pressure but are seeing some consistency in gas prices and inflation, which may influence purchasing behavior [33] - The company raised the lower end of its 2025 guidance range, now expecting adjusted diluted EPS in the range of $5.37 to $5.45, representing a growth rate of 3.5% to 5% from a base of $5.19 in 2024 [26][27] Other Important Information - The company returned nearly $6 billion to shareholders in the first nine months, including $5.2 billion in dividends and $712 million in share repurchases [27] - The board authorized the expansion of the share repurchase program from $1 billion to $2 billion, which now expires on December 31, 2026 [27] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on fourth quarter earnings growth and smokeable OCI - Management acknowledged the impact of share repurchase and MSA legal fund expiration on earnings growth, emphasizing the need to monitor consumer spending in a dynamic marketplace [30][31] Question: Drivers behind moderation in cigarette industry decline - Management indicated that consistency in consumer pressures, such as gas prices and inflation, may be contributing to the moderation observed [32][33] Question: Performance and initiatives for the nicotine pouch category - Management expressed satisfaction with ON's performance despite competitive pressures and highlighted the importance of retail takeaway volume as a measure of consumer demand [36][38] Question: KT&G partnership and operational efficiencies - Management outlined three prongs of the partnership: expanding ON and ON+ internationally, exploring non-nicotine opportunities, and improving operational efficiencies [39][41] Question: ON+ pricing strategy and controllable costs - Management confirmed ON+ is positioned as a premium product and discussed the importance of long-term cost management strategies in the smokeable category [46][49]