Group 1 - Grupo Rotoplas will present its evolution during AGUA Day 2025 on December 9, 2025, from 9:00–11:00 a.m. (CT) [1] - The event will feature key panelists including Carlos Rojas A. (CEO), Andrés Pliego (CFO), and José Luis Mantecón (CSO) [1] - Registration for the event is available through a provided link [1] Group 2 - Grupo Rotoplas has been recognized with the 2025 ELIS Award from HSBC, highlighting its achievements across all ESG dimensions: Environmental, Social, and Governance [3]

Core Insights - California Water Service Group (CWT) is recognized as one of the overlooked dividend stocks to consider for investment [1] - Baird has reduced its price target for CWT from $60 to $55 while maintaining an Outperform rating following the company's third-quarter results [2] - The third-quarter revenue for CWT was $311.2 million, a 4% increase year-over-year, but it fell short of analysts' expectations by over $10 million [3] Financial Performance - CWT reported a net income of $61.2 million for the third quarter, with diluted earnings per share remaining at $1.03, consistent with the previous year [3] - The company invested over $135 million in water system infrastructure during the quarter, representing a 14.8% increase from the same period last year [4] - CWT announced its 323rd consecutive quarterly dividend of $0.30 per share, continuing a 58-year streak of annual dividend increases, with a compound annual growth rate of 7.7% over the past five years [4] Future Outlook - Management indicated that if the proposed 2024 California General Rate Case and infrastructure improvement plan are approved, the regulated rate base could grow at an annualized rate of nearly 12% [5] - CWT operates as a regulated provider of water and wastewater services throughout California [5]

Core Insights - The article discusses overlooked dividend-paying stocks that present strong investment opportunities, emphasizing the historical performance of dividends in generating total returns across various market conditions [1][4]. Dividend Performance - Dividend-paying stocks have historically contributed nearly half (49.3%) of the broader market's total return since 1871, with the remainder coming from price appreciation [4]. - From May 1971 to February 2025, the S&P 500 delivered an average annual return of 118.6%, while reinvested dividends provided a return of 195.3%, highlighting the power of compounding [2]. Investment Methodology - The selection process focused on dividend-paying companies with a market capitalization above $2 billion that have raised their dividends for at least ten consecutive years, identifying firms with steady dividend policies and consistent shareholder returns [6]. Company Highlights - **California Water Service Group (NYSE:CWT)**: - Reported Q3 2025 revenue of $311.2 million, a 4% year-over-year increase, but fell short of analyst projections by over $10 million [11]. - Announced its 323rd consecutive quarterly dividend of $0.30 per share, extending a 58-year streak of annual dividend increases, with a compound annual growth rate of 7.7% over the past five years [12]. - Management indicated potential for a nearly 12% annualized growth in the regulated rate base if the proposed 2024 GRC and infrastructure improvement plan is approved [13]. - **Avista Corporation (NYSE:AVA)**: - Reported Q3 2025 revenues of $403 million, a 2.35% increase from the previous year, but missed analyst expectations by $14.7 million [15]. - Plans to issue approximately $120 million in long-term debt and up to $80 million in common stock in 2026 [15]. - CFO highlighted $363 million in capital expenditures for the first three quarters of the year, with total spending expected to reach $525 million for 2025 [16]. - **Exponent, Inc. (NASDAQ:EXPO)**: - Reported Q3 2025 total revenue of $147.1 million, an 8% increase, with revenue before reimbursements rising 10% to $137.1 million [21]. - Strong performance driven by growth in dispute-related work across various sectors, including energy and life sciences [20]. - The company is positioned to leverage opportunities from artificial intelligence while managing risks associated with technological changes [19].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for Q3 2025 totaled $35.1 million, a 5% increase from $33.4 million in Q3 2024, driven by retail services and manufacturing segments [7][10] - Net income from continuing operations was $5.6 million, or $0.34 per diluted share, compared to $5 million, or $0.31 per diluted share in Q3 2024 [10] - Gross profit increased to $12.9 million, representing 37% of total revenue, up from $11.6 million, or 35% of total revenue in Q3 2024 [9][10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Retail water sales in Grand Cayman increased due to economic strength and drier weather, leading to higher demand and sales volume [3] - The bulk segment revenue decreased to $8.4 million, down from $8.8 million, primarily due to lower fuel-related charges [4][8] - Services segment revenue rose by $1.6 million, driven by plant construction revenue increasing from $4.3 million to $6.4 million [9] - Manufacturing segment revenue increased by 7% to $4.7 million, attributed to higher production activity [9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Caribbean-based bulk segment saw a modest decline in revenue but improved profitability due to cost reductions [4] - Increased bidding activity for municipal water projects in Florida is noted, driven by significant population growth and regulatory changes [16][17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to enhance its diversified business model across four segments to deliver long-term superior returns [21] - Focus on ongoing construction projects in the U.S. and increased project opportunities in Florida is emphasized [21] - The completion of a new manufacturing facility expansion is expected to improve efficiency and throughput [5][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management is optimistic about continued growth due to strong performance in Grand Cayman and ongoing construction projects [21] - Anticipation of significant revenue and earnings growth from the Honolulu desalination project, with construction expected to commence early next year [6][18] - The company is evaluating how to utilize its ample cash balances to increase shareholder value [11] Other Important Information - New independent directors were appointed to strengthen corporate governance and expertise [19][20] - The company has no significant outstanding debt, with cash and cash equivalents totaling $123.6 million as of September 30, 2025 [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on Hawaii project permits - The archaeological permit is crucial and has more discretion than subsequent administrative permits, which are more administrative in nature [27][28] Question: Construction cadence for Hawaii project - A typical construction project cadence is expected, with a ramp-up period for site clearing and material ordering [29] Question: Increase in Arizona CDR activity - Increased activity is attributed to the sales team's entrenchment in Arizona and the demand for cost certainty from developers [30][31] Question: Manufacturing facility expansion impact - The expansion significantly improves workflow and allows for simultaneous management of multiple projects, enhancing overall capacity [39][40] Question: Future margin expectations - Margins may fluctuate based on product mix, but overall gross profit dollars are expected to improve with the facility expansion [46]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted net revenue was stable year over year at $5.5 billion, while adjusted EBITDA grew 15% to $3.2 billion, achieving a 59% margin [6][17] - Adjusted net income reached $1.2 billion, reflecting a 9.5% growth compared to the prior year, and cash flow from operations increased 22% to $1.7 billion [6][17] - EBITDA to cash conversion reached 54% in the quarter, indicating disciplined execution and resource optimization [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Water production increased by 4.4% year over year to 809 million cubic meters, with active connections growing by 0.6% [5] - Sewage connections rose by 1.1%, reflecting the company's investment focus on sewage services [5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a collection efficiency of 101%, marking one of the highest historical performances [12][21] - The Fawuspi rate increased from 3.28% to 3.78%, impacting revenue and EBITDA [6][94] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on three strategic priorities: delivering on the new concession agreement, improving operational efficiency, and strengthening financial efficiency [19][20] - CapEx accelerated to $4 billion in the quarter, growing 175% year over year, supporting the company's investment program [14][20] - The company is rolling out a large smart metering program, with 4.4 million IoT-enabled smart meters planned for installation by 2029 [22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving universal access and improving service delivery, with a commitment to operational excellence and sustainable growth [17][19] - The company is optimistic about its ability to manage water security and has contingency plans in place for the upcoming rainy season [36][52] Other Important Information - The company has formalized a decarbonization roadmap with targets to reduce total emissions by 15% by 2035 [26] - The MI acquisition is expected to enhance water security and operational efficiency, with closing anticipated between late Q4 and early Q1 of the following year [27] Q&A Session Summary Question: Updates on the annual tariff review process - Management is in the final steps of determining the regulatory asset base addition for 2024 and expects to share updates soon [30][32] Question: Expectations on hydro resilience improvements - Short-term strategies include contingency plans for water management, while the MI acquisition is expected to enhance water security [36][39] Question: M&A opportunities and focus areas - The company is focused on fulfilling obligations from the privatization of Sabesp but is also exploring potential M&A opportunities as they arise [42][45] Question: Details on the severance program - The company does not expect to implement additional voluntary dismissal programs after the current one [48][50] Question: Impact of social tariffs on revenue - The impact of social tariffs in Q3 was approximately $117 million, which will be recovered through future tariff adjustments [59][65] Question: Discounts reduced for large clients - The total gain from discount removal for large clients in Q3 was approximately $133 million, with ongoing adjustments affecting pricing and mix [68][71] Question: CapEx execution details - The company executed $4 billion in CapEx, focusing primarily on sewage treatment and water safety improvements [102][105]

Financial Performance - Adjusted net revenue increased slightly by 0.1% from R$5462 million in 3Q24 to R$5468 million in 3Q25[15, 21, 32] - Adjusted EBITDA increased by 14.7% from R$2794 million in 3Q24 to R$3206 million in 3Q25[15, 33, 34] - Adjusted net income increased by 9.5% from R$1173 million in 3Q24 to R$1284 million in 3Q25[15, 110] - Cash flow from operations increased by 21.9% from R$1413 million in 3Q24 to R$1723 million in 3Q25[15] - Cash conversion rate increased from 50.6% in 3Q24 to 53.7% in 3Q25[15] Operational Highlights - Water production volume increased by 4.4% from 775.101 million m³ in 3Q24 to 808.878 million m³ in 3Q25[10] - Water connections increased by 0.6% from 9450 thousand in 3Q24 to 9509 thousand in 3Q25[12] - Sewage connections increased by 1.1% from 8156 thousand in 3Q24 to 8245 thousand in 3Q25[13] Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) - Total CAPEX year-to-date reached R$10430 million[48, 117] - CAPEX for water projects in 3Q25 was R$1155 million, while sewage projects reached R$2823 million[48] - The company has contractual obligations up to 2029, with investments reaching R$38564 million[118, 119] Debt and Ratios - The company issued R$4.9 billion in debt in July, with maturities in 5, 7, and 10 years[62] - 59% of the company's debt matures in 2030 onwards[61, 62] - The company's cash position as of 3Q25 was R$11.6 billion[61, 62]

Core Insights - Consolidated Water Co. Ltd. reported a 5% increase in consolidated revenue for Q3 2025, totaling $35.1 million, and a 10% increase in fully diluted earnings per share from continuing operations, reaching $0.34 [4][12][16]. Financial Summary - Total revenue increased to $35.1 million from $33.4 million in Q3 2024, driven by growth in retail, services, and manufacturing segments [12][31]. - Retail revenue rose by 2% to $7.8 million, while bulk revenue decreased by 4% to $8.4 million [8][31]. - Services revenue increased by 13% to $14.3 million, with construction revenue up 50% to $6.4 million [6][31]. - Manufacturing revenue grew by 7% to $4.7 million, with a gross margin increase to 40% [8][9]. Operational Highlights - Retail water sold increased by 6% due to lower rainfall in Grand Cayman [5][12]. - The services segment saw a revenue increase of $1.6 million, attributed to construction projects and a slight rise in O&M contracts [6][14]. - A new contract valued at $11.7 million was secured for a wastewater recycling plant in California, expected to save significant potable water [7][12]. Management Commentary - The CEO highlighted the strength of the diversified business model, which includes regulated utility operations, design and construction services, and manufacturing [4]. - The company anticipates continued revenue and earnings growth from major projects, including a $204 million seawater desalination plant in Hawaii [10][12]. Balance Sheet and Cash Flow - Cash and cash equivalents increased to $123.6 million, with working capital rising to $141.7 million as of September 30, 2025 [17]. - Net income from continuing operations attributable to stockholders was $5.6 million, compared to $5.0 million in Q3 2024 [16][17]. Segment Results - Retail segment revenue was $7.8 million, bulk segment revenue was $8.4 million, services segment revenue was $14.3 million, and manufacturing segment revenue was $4.7 million for Q3 2025 [25][31]. - The services segment's construction revenue increased significantly, while O&M revenue also saw a modest rise [14][32].

Core Viewpoint - The current market is considered expensive, with the Shiller CAPE ratio at 39.6, indicating a potential correction or bear market is likely approaching [1][2] Market Context - Historical data shows that corrections of 10% are common, with the S&P 500 experiencing an average annual correction of at least 10% since 1950, and a 20% correction occurring every three to five years on average [2] Defensive Investment Strategy - Defensive sectors such as healthcare, consumer staples, and utilities are expected to perform well during market corrections and bear markets [3] - Dividend stocks are highlighted as favorable investments during sideways and bear markets due to their income generation [3] Selected Stocks for Mini Portfolio - A mini portfolio of eight stocks, all classified as Dividend Kings (companies that have increased dividends for 50 consecutive years), is recommended for market drawdowns [4] - These stocks are positioned in defensive sectors and offer dividend yields above the S&P 500 index yield of 1.25% [4] Individual Stock Highlights - **Coca-Cola (KO)**: Dividend yield of 2.9%, increased dividends for 63 years, current price around $70.61, market cap $303 billion [5][6] - **Procter & Gamble (PG)**: Dividend yield of 2.86%, increased dividends for 69 years, current price around $147 [7] - **Johnson & Johnson (JNJ)**: Dividend yield of 2.7%, increased dividends for 62 years, current price around $186.57, market cap $450 billion [8][9] - **American States Water (AWR)**: Dividend yield of 2.54%, increased dividends for 71 years, current price around $74.84, market cap $3 billion [10][11] - **Northwest Natural Holding (NWN)**: Highest yield at 4.21%, increased dividends for 70 years, current price around $47 [12] - **Genuine Parts (GPC)**: Dividend yield of 3.3%, increased dividends for 69 years, current price around $127 [13] - **Marzetti Co. (MZTI)**: Dividend yield of 2.21%, increased dividends for 62 years, current price around $172 [13] - **Becton, Dickinson (BDX)**: Dividend yield of 2.35%, increased dividends for 53 years, current price around $178 [14] Total Investment Overview - The total cost to purchase one share of each of these eight stocks is approximately $1,000, creating a defensive income-generating portfolio [15]

November 7, 2025 | 10:00 a.m. ET Forward-Looking Statements Certain written statements included herein and/or oral statements made in connection with the presentation contained herein constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws in each of the provinces and territories of Canada and the respective policies, regulations and rules under such laws and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (collec ...

Market Overview - Wall Street's major indexes have reached multiple all-time closing highs recently, but the market has experienced volatility due to economic uncertainties [1][5] - The tech sector, particularly driven by AI optimism, has seen fluctuations, with significant pullbacks in stock prices due to concerns over high valuations [2][6] Economic Concerns - Investors are worried about the health of the economy, particularly with a shrinking labor market and fewer jobs being added [7] - Layoffs surged in October, totaling 153,074, which is a 183% increase sequentially and a 175% increase year-over-year [8] - The ongoing government shutdown has limited access to fresh economic data, contributing to investor uncertainty [9] Defensive Investment Recommendations - In light of market volatility, it is advisable to consider defensive stocks, particularly from the utilities sector, which are characterized by low beta values and high dividend yields [3][4][12] - Five recommended low-beta utility stocks include: - **Atmos Energy Corporation (ATO)**: Expected earnings growth of 6%, beta of 0.73, and a dividend yield of 2.02% [10][11] - **American States Water Company (AWR)**: Expected earnings growth of 4.1%, beta of 0.64, and a dividend yield of 2.72% [13][14] - **Consolidated Water Co. Ltd. (CWCO)**: Expected earnings growth of 0.9%, beta of 0.51, and a dividend yield of 1.61% [15][16] - **Entergy Corporation (ETR)**: Expected earnings growth of 6.9%, beta of 0.63, and a dividend yield of 2.49% [17][18] - **Duke Energy Corporation (DUK)**: Expected earnings growth of 7.3%, beta of 0.45, and a dividend yield of 3.44% [18][19]