Summary of 8x8 (EGHT) 2025 Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: 8x8, Inc. (EGHT) - **Industry**: Business Communications, specifically focusing on CPaaS (Communications Platform as a Service), UCaaS (Unified Communications as a Service), and CCaaS (Contact Center as a Service) Key Points and Arguments 1. **Recent Earnings and Guidance**: - 8x8 provided guidance for fiscal year 2026, indicating revenue growth expectations of high single digits, around 8% in the coming years [5][7][17] - The CPaaS business is performing better than expected, although there was some disruption in new business generation in March and April due to macroeconomic factors [5][6] 2. **Market Dynamics**: - The voice communications industry is not declining; it is evolving with trends towards omnichannel communication [9][10] - The company has seen growth in international markets, which constitute over a third of its business, while the US market faced challenges [6] 3. **Performance Metrics**: - The core business (excluding Fuse) grew by 4.6% year-over-year, aligning with industry peers [12] - The company has reduced its debt by approximately 40% since acquiring Fuse, which was a $250 million transaction [14][15] 4. **Strategic Focus**: - 8x8 aims to be a global software provider rather than a traditional telecom company, focusing on cloud-based solutions [19][23] - The company is actively looking for acquisition opportunities in the fragmented telecom market to enhance its scale and capabilities [18][24] 5. **AI and Contact Center Solutions**: - 8x8 has been investing in AI since 2019, integrating AI into its products to enhance customer service and operational efficiency [39][40] - The company targets mid-market enterprises that lack in-house development capabilities, providing them with advanced contact center technologies [53] 6. **Competitive Landscape**: - The primary competitors include hyperscalers like Microsoft, Amazon, and Google, as well as traditional telecom companies [75] - 8x8 believes it is well-positioned to capture market share due to its comprehensive product offerings and focus on innovation [78] 7. **Future Outlook**: - The company anticipates continued growth and cash flow generation, with plans for increased R&D spending and potential M&A activities in the future [80][81] - There is a recognition of the need for a shift from on-premise to cloud-based solutions, particularly for AI applications [60][63] Additional Important Insights - **Valuation Concerns**: There is a significant market disconnect regarding 8x8's valuation, which does not reflect its growth potential and innovation capabilities [78][79] - **R&D Strategy**: The company plans to leverage partnerships for R&D to enhance its product offerings without incurring additional debt [83][84] - **Long-term Vision**: 8x8 aims to maintain a low leverage ratio to ensure financial flexibility for innovation and growth [33][34] This summary encapsulates the key insights and strategic direction of 8x8 as discussed in the conference call, highlighting its performance, market positioning, and future growth plans.

Core Insights - The investment strategy focuses on acquiring strong businesses when they are undervalued, emphasizing the importance of quality and price [1] - The portfolio has evolved through various industries, including technology, banking, and emerging markets, with a current emphasis on high-quality businesses and their competitive advantages [1] - The investment philosophy is influenced by notable investors and CEOs, highlighting the significance of learning from successful figures in the industry [1] Investment Strategy - The approach prioritizes large tech companies with extensive user bases and content libraries, recognizing the potential for cross-selling opportunities [1] - Valuation is conducted at the EBIT plus R&D level, reflecting the belief in the potential of certain R&D investments [1] - The investment performance from February 2019 to October 2024 shows an annual return of 11.4% CAGR, which is below the market's 15.18% CAGR, but there is confidence in future outperformance due to expanded knowledge [1] Portfolio Management - The strategy aims to minimize portfolio turnover, with a focus on holding existing companies rather than frequent trading [1] - The investment philosophy rejects traditional "Buy" and "Sell" recommendations, advocating for a "Strong Buy" threshold for exceptional businesses and categorizing others as "Strong Sell" to generate cash for new opportunities [1] - A "Hold" position may be initiated for great businesses if the pricing is not favorable, indicating a flexible approach to market conditions [1]

Core Insights - Tucows Inc. (TCX) has outperformed both the industry composite stocks and the S&P 500, gaining 22.6% in the past month compared to a 0.5% decline in the industry and a 4.7% growth in the S&P 500 [1][2] Financial Performance - In Q1 2025, Tucows reported an 8% year-over-year increase in revenues to $94.6 million, with gross profit rising 29% to $23.5 million and adjusted EBITDA increasing 225% to $13.7 million [3] - Despite a net loss of $15.1 million, this represents a significant improvement over the previous year, with all core units contributing to the gains [3] Strategic Initiatives - Tucows has implemented targeted cost reductions and restructured its Ting fiber operations to focus on partnerships, enhancing operational efficiency and profitability [4][6] - The pivot of Ting towards partnerships has improved capital efficiency, allowing the company to preserve capital and enhance unit economics [6] Business Segment Performance - Wavelo is emerging as a high-margin growth engine, gaining traction with large telecom providers globally and focusing on AI-driven efficiencies [7] - Tucows Domains continues to deliver consistent value despite market saturation, with margin growth and steady transaction volume [8] Market Positioning - Tucows benefits from stable, recurring revenue streams, resulting in lower volatility compared to its industry, with a beta of 0.83 [9] - The company is well-positioned to capitalize on favorable industry trends, with the fiber internet and telecom software markets projected to grow 12-15% annually through 2030 [10] Overall Outlook - The stock momentum of Tucows is attributed to foundational progress rather than hype, with a focus on strengthening the balance sheet and aligning growth strategies with macro trends [11]

Core Viewpoint - Bill Miller, founder of Miller Value Partners, has a history of outperforming the S&P 500 and has recently initiated a significant position in Verizon Communications, reflecting a strategic shift in the portfolio towards value stocks in the telecommunications sector [1][2][4]. Company Overview - Miller Value Partners' investment portfolio consists of 34 stocks, with Verizon being the largest new holding added in the first quarter of 2025, amounting to 198,000 shares valued at $8.98 million [2][4][5]. - Verizon's market capitalization is approximately $183 billion, and the new stake represents 4.09% of Miller Value Partners' total portfolio [5]. Financial Performance - Verizon's forward price-to-earnings ratio is 9.2, significantly lower than AT&T's 13.4, indicating a more attractive valuation [6]. - The company reported a wireless service revenue of $20.8 billion in the first quarter, showing year-over-year growth in both revenue and earnings [7]. - Verizon's adjusted EBITDA reached its highest level ever, with the strongest growth rate in nearly four years [7]. Growth Prospects - Verizon anticipates closing its acquisition of Frontier Communications in early 2026, which could further enhance its growth trajectory [8]. - The company has demonstrated a strong free cash flow increase, rising to $3.6 billion in Q1 2025 from $2.7 billion in the previous year [9]. Dividend Policy - Verizon has increased its dividend payout for 18 consecutive years, indicating a commitment to returning value to shareholders [9]. - The company's financial health supports the continuation of this dividend growth, with a clear pathway for meaningful debt reduction ahead of the Frontier acquisition [12]. Debt Management - Verizon's net unsecured debt stood at $115.1 billion at the end of Q1 2025, which is $11 billion lower than the previous year [11][12]. - The company's net unsecured debt to consolidated adjusted EBITDA has improved year-over-year, suggesting better debt management [12].

Entel SA (ENTEL.SN) Trimming Estimates Post-1Q25 27 May 2025 | 5:20PM BRT | ENTEL.SN | | --- | | 12m Price Target: Ch$3,450 | | Price: Ch$2,791 | | Upside: 23.6% | We incorporate 1Q25 earnings as well as updated macro/FX assumptions, lowering estimates particularly in Chile, given i) somewhat more-conservative ARPU assumptions amid continued competitive pressure from AMX and WOM in mobile, though we already assumed some increased competition this year; ii) weaker-than-expected fiber trends, with management ...

Core Insights - The collaboration among Optiva Inc., PlektonLabs, and Qeema focuses on a TM Forum Open Innovation Catalyst project named INFINITY, aimed at unlocking revenue through dynamic pricing and APIs in the telecommunications sector [2][3][6]. Group 1: Project Overview - The INFINITY project introduces a dynamic pricing solution that allows telecom companies to adapt pricing in real-time based on customer needs and network utilization, thereby creating new revenue streams [3][4]. - The project will be showcased at the DTW25 Ignite event in Copenhagen from June 17-19, 2025 [2][8]. Group 2: Benefits of Dynamic Pricing - Dynamic pricing enables telecom operators to adjust prices based on real-time demand, optimizing network capacity and enhancing customer experience [7]. - The approach allows for monetization of API ecosystems and tailored packages for B2B2C, generating new revenue streams [7][6]. - By leveraging AI and real-time network telemetry, the INFINITY project simplifies API discovery and supports dynamic quote management, facilitating easy monetization and real-time ordering [7][5]. Group 3: Industry Context - The need for dynamic pricing is emphasized as critical in the rapidly evolving telecom landscape, moving operators beyond traditional static pricing models [4]. - The project aims to transform telecom networks from cost centers into agile profit engines by capitalizing on advanced features like network slicing [4][6].

Core Insights - Verizon Communications Inc. is participating in TD Cowen's 53rd Annual Technology, Media & Telecom Conference, highlighting its engagement with industry stakeholders [1]. - Frank Boulben serves as the Chief Revenue Officer of the Consumer Group at Verizon, overseeing product design, pricing, media, promotions, and customer relationship management [3]. Consumer Segment Overview - The consumer segment experienced phone losses in the first quarter, which were larger than expected by analysts, indicating a higher churn rate [4]. - The industry faced challenges in January, affecting all major players, including Verizon [4].

Investment Rating - Industry View for Media & Entertainment, Telecom & Cable Services, and Communications Infrastructure is rated as In-Line [3][5]. Core Insights - The report provides a comprehensive analysis of trading multiples across various segments, including Diversified Media & Streaming, Mid-Cap Entertainment & Sport, Mid-Cap Advertising & Film, Telecom & Cable Services, and Communications Infrastructure [6][20]. - Historical performance metrics are included for sub-industries over different time frames, such as 1 Week, 1 Month, 3 Months, 12 Months, and 3 Years Year-to-Date [2][6]. Summary by Industry Segment Diversified Media & Streaming - Price to Earnings (P/E) for 2025E is 42.2x, decreasing to 27.3x by 2027E - Adjusted Price/FCF for 2025E is 49.1x, decreasing to 30.9x by 2027E - EV/EBITDA for 2025E is 46.1x, decreasing to 29.1x by 2027E - Dividend Yield is projected at 0.2% for 2025E, increasing to 0.3% by 2027E [6]. Mid-Cap Entertainment & Sport - P/E for 2025E is 57.3x, decreasing to 27.5x by 2027E - Adjusted Price/FCF for 2025E is 40.6x, decreasing to 22.3x by 2027E - EV/EBITDA for 2025E is 56.1x, decreasing to 33.4x by 2027E - Dividend Yield is projected at 1.2% for 2025E, increasing to 1.4% by 2027E [6]. Mid-Cap Advertising & Film - P/E for 2025E is 13.7x, decreasing to 11.7x by 2027E - Adjusted Price/FCF for 2025E is 12.3x, decreasing to 10.7x by 2027E - EV/EBITDA for 2025E is 14.1x, decreasing to 12.5x by 2027E - Dividend Yield is projected at 4.3% for 2025E, increasing to 4.8% by 2027E [6]. Telecom & Cable Services - P/E for 2025E is 14.7x, decreasing to 13.5x by 2027E - Adjusted Price/FCF for 2025E is 14.3x, decreasing to 10.9x by 2027E - EV/EBITDA for 2025E is 15.0x, increasing to 14.1x by 2027E - Dividend Yield is projected at 2.2% for 2025E, increasing to 2.4% by 2027E [6]. Communications Infrastructure - P/E for 2025E is 24.4x, decreasing to 29.0x by 2027E - Adjusted Price/FCF for 2025E is 27.8x, decreasing to 24.2x by 2027E - EV/EBITDA for 2025E is 28.4x, decreasing to 26.0x by 2027E - Dividend Yield is projected at 3.4% for 2025E, increasing to 3.6% by 2027E [6].

Core Insights - Lumen Technologies is focusing on three company-wide priorities to reposition for growth, with a significant emphasis on building infrastructure for AI [4] - The company has identified a substantial opportunity to monetize its underutilized network assets, particularly in light of the increasing data demands from AI and hyperscalers [4] - The ongoing trend of cloudification in telecom is seen as a disruptive force, enabling the delivery of services digitally [5] Company Strategy - The first priority is to build the backbone for AI, leveraging the existing network and expanding its capabilities to meet the growing data needs [4] - Lumen signed $8.5 billion in deals last year, indicating strong momentum in monetizing its network assets [4] - Continued discussions around further opportunities in this area suggest a proactive approach to capitalizing on market trends [4] Industry Trends - The cloudification of telecom is transforming the landscape, allowing for more efficient and digital service delivery [5] - This shift is expected to create new opportunities and challenges within the telecom sector, necessitating strategic adaptations from companies like Lumen [5]

Core Viewpoint - Apple iSports Group, Inc. has signed a non-binding Letter of Intent to acquire AmeriCrew Inc., which aligns with its strategic growth plans in the entertainment, media, and iGaming sectors [1][3][7]. Strategic and Financial Rationale - The acquisition supports Apple iSports' goals by securing valuable assets and recurring revenue streams, positioning the company as a leading player in the U.S. sports, media, and entertainment landscape [3][4]. - The strategic combination aims to address infrastructure and connectivity gaps in the digital landscape, enhancing high-speed access to content and empowering athletes and content creators [4][5]. Management Insights - Kelley Dunne, CEO of AmeriCrew, emphasized that Apple iSports has the necessary skills for acquisition, including experienced management and growth opportunities in the gaming and entertainment sectors [5]. - Joe Martinez, Chairman and CEO of Apple iSports, expressed excitement about the acquisition, highlighting the combined strengths and potential for success in the rapidly growing markets [5][7]. Transaction Details - The acquisition is expected to close in the third quarter of 2025, pending regulatory approvals and shareholder consent [7]. - AmeriCrew will continue to operate under its brand, led by its current CEO, and the purchase price will be a combination of cash and Apple iSports common stock [7]. About AmeriCrew - AmeriCrew focuses on providing infrastructure services, including fiber deployment and clean energy solutions, and aims to reduce latency and enhance security in broadband connections [8][13]. - The company is recognized for its innovative contributions to telecommunications, particularly in deploying advanced wireless networks [9][12].