乙醇生产
Search documents
REX American Resources (REX) - 2026 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-12-04 17:02
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The net income per share for Q3 2025 was $0.71, an increase from $0.69 in Q3 2024, reflecting strong performance despite lower prices for ethanol and distillers grains [5][11] - Cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments totaled approximately $335 million, maintaining a strong financial position with no bank debt [5][11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Ethanol sales volumes reached 78.4 million gallons, up from 75.5 million gallons in Q3 2024, while the average selling price decreased to $1.73 per gallon from $1.83 [10] - Dried distillers grains sales volumes were approximately 160,000 tons, with an average selling price of $139.93 per ton, down from 170,000 tons and $147.14 per ton in the prior year [10] - Corn oil sales volumes increased by approximately 17% to 27.4 million pounds, with an average selling price rising by approximately 36%, leading to a 60% increase in sales revenue for corn oil [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. ethanol exports were approximately 10% ahead of the 2024 pace, with exports 14% higher than the first eight months of 2024 [13] - The USDA projects that corn production in South Dakota and Illinois for the 2025-2026 harvest season will be among the highest in recent years, favoring lower input prices [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on solidifying its core business of ethanol production and is progressing on the expansion of the One Earth Energy facility to 200 million gallons per year, expected to be completed in 2026 [4][8] - REX is actively engaged in evaluating potential benefits from the 45Z tax credits and is working on its carbon intensity score to qualify for these credits [5][8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's operational excellence and strategic investments, which have led to superior results and a strong balance sheet [5][12] - The company expects the fourth quarter to generate a higher net profit than the previous year's fourth quarter, positioning itself well for growth in 2026 [15] Other Important Information - The company has invested approximately $155.8 million in carbon capture and ethanol expansion projects, remaining within a combined budget range of $220 million to $230 million for both initiatives [8][9] Q&A Session Summary Question: Thoughts on key hurdles and timing for the 45Z tax credit program - Management is awaiting guidelines from the Treasury and is reviewing calculations with experts, hoping to provide updates in the next quarter [17] Question: Impact of tariffs and crush spreads on the industry - Management noted that tariffs initially impacted exports to Mexico and Canada but have led to increased ethanol exports to Europe and other countries [19][20] Question: Update on the carbon sequestration project and permitting process - Management indicated that the moratorium on pipelines will end on July 1, allowing them to apply for permits thereafter [22] Question: Potential for partnerships regarding carbon capture - Management is focusing on the first well and has been in contact with potential partners but will not negotiate until permits are secured [30]
REX American Resources (REX) - 2026 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-12-04 17:00
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The net income per share for Q3 2025 was $0.71, an increase from $0.69 in Q3 2024, reflecting strong performance despite lower prices for ethanol and distillers grains [11] - Gross profit for Q3 2025 was $36.1 million, down from $39.7 million in Q3 2024, primarily due to lower prices [11] - Cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments totaled approximately $335 million, maintaining a strong financial position with no bank debt [5][11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Ethanol sales volumes reached 78.4 million gallons in Q3 2025, up from 75.5 million gallons in Q3 2024, while the average selling price decreased to $1.73 per gallon from $1.83 [10] - Dried distillers grains sales volumes were approximately 160,000 tons, with an average selling price of $139.93 per ton, down from 170,000 tons and $147.14 per ton in the prior year [10] - Corn oil sales volumes increased by approximately 17% to 27.4 million pounds, with an average selling price rising by approximately 36%, leading to a 60% increase in sales revenue for corn oil [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. ethanol exports were approximately 10% ahead of the 2024 pace, with exports 14% higher than the first eight months of 2024 [13] - The USDA projects that corn production in South Dakota and Illinois for the 2025-2026 harvest season will be among the highest in recent years, favoring lower input prices [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on solidifying its core business of ethanol production and expanding its One Earth Energy facility to 200 million gallons per year, expected to be completed in 2026 [4][5] - REX is actively engaged in evaluating potential benefits from the 45Z tax credits and is working on its carbon intensity score to qualify for these credits [5][12] - The company aims to leverage near-term opportunities provided by the 45Z tax credit program to enhance earnings as its ethanol production expansion and carbon sequestration facilities come online [12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the fourth quarter, expecting to generate a higher net profit than the previous year's fourth quarter [14] - The company anticipates continued growth and improved performance in 2026, supported by a strong balance sheet and expanding business opportunities [14] - Management highlighted the importance of operational excellence and strategic investments in driving superior results [5][12] Other Important Information - The company has invested approximately $155.8 million in carbon capture and ethanol expansion projects, remaining within a combined budget range of $220 million to $230 million for both initiatives [8][9] - REX has maintained profitability for 21 consecutive quarters, reflecting the team's discipline and operational excellence [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Thoughts on key hurdles and timing for the 45Z tax credit program - Management is awaiting guidelines from the Treasury and is reviewing facts with experts to determine potential tax credits, with updates expected next quarter [17] Question: Impact of tariffs and crush spreads on the industry - Management noted that tariffs initially impacted exports but have led to increased ethanol exports to Europe and other countries, with expectations for continued growth in 2026 [19][20] Question: Status of the carbon sequestration project and permitting process - Management indicated that the Illinois Commerce Commission is working on pipeline requirements, and the moratorium will end on July 1, allowing applications to proceed [21][22] Question: Potential for partnerships in carbon capture - Management is focusing on the first well's operation before negotiating contracts for carbon sequestration with third parties [30]
REX American Resources (REX) - 2026 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-08-27 16:02
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Ethanol sales volumes increased to 70.6 million gallons in Q2 2025 from 65.1 million gallons in Q2 2024, while the average selling price decreased to $1.75 per gallon from $1.79 [12] - Gross profit for Q2 2025 was $14.3 million, down from $19.8 million in Q2 2024, primarily due to lower sales prices for dry distiller grains [13] - Net income attributable to REX shareholders was $7.1 million or $0.43 per diluted share, compared to $12.4 million or $0.70 per diluted share in Q2 2024 [14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Dry distiller grain sales volumes were approximately 148,000 tons with an average selling price of $143.63 per ton, down from 133,000 tons at $164.45 per ton in the prior year [12] - Modified distillers grain volumes totaled approximately 19,000 tons at an average selling price of $64.41 per ton [12] - Foreign oil sales volumes increased by approximately 14% year-over-year, with a 26% increase in prices leading to a 46% increase in sales dollars [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. corn crop is on track for a potential record harvest, which is expected to benefit REX [18] - Ethanol exports are running about 10% ahead of 2024 levels through June, with expectations for 2025 to set a new export record [17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - REX's strategy is guided by profit, position, and policy, focusing on sustainable long-term organic growth through ethanol expansion and carbon capture initiatives [15] - The company is positioned to maximize benefits from the 45Q and 45Z tax credits, which have been extended through 2029 [10][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management anticipates better performance in the second half of 2025 compared to the first half, supported by favorable corn supply trends and steady demand [17] - The company remains confident in its core business outlook and is committed to executing its growth strategy while delivering long-term value to shareholders [18] Other Important Information - REX has invested approximately $126.7 million in carbon capture and ethanol expansion projects, remaining within a combined budget range of $220 million to $230 million [11] - The Board of Directors has authorized a two-for-one stock split, effective for shareholders of record as of September 8, 2025 [5] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the event held at the One Earth Energy facility and its implications for local support? - The event was well attended by local officials and shareholders, enhancing community relations and support for growth projects [21][22] Question: Was the issue with the interconnection from the local utility resolved? - Yes, the issue has been resolved, and the company can now obtain utility directly from Amarin [23] Question: What is the outlook for co-products and ethanol margins in the second half? - The third quarter is expected to outperform the second quarter, with favorable feedstock availability and increasing ethanol exports [26][27] Question: What is the status of the CI score and potential credits without a carbon pipeline? - The company has not publicly disclosed its CI score due to unclear guidelines but is optimistic about potential tax credits [32][34] Question: Will the company be able to build the carbon pipeline soon after the expiration of the Illinois moratorium? - The goal is to proceed with construction after receiving necessary approvals, which could allow operations in 2026 [35][36] Question: What is the expected build time for the pipeline once approvals are received? - The pipeline is approximately 6.5 miles long, and construction would take a couple of months once permissions are granted [37][38]
REX American Resources (REX) - 2026 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-08-27 16:00
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Ethanol sales volumes increased to 70.6 million gallons in Q2 2025 from 65.1 million gallons in Q2 2024, while the average selling price decreased to $1.75 per gallon from $1.79 [12] - Gross profit for Q2 2025 was $14.3 million, down from $19.8 million in Q2 2024, primarily due to lower sales prices for dry distiller grains and higher shipping costs [13] - Net income attributable to REX shareholders was $7.1 million or $0.43 per diluted share, compared to $12.4 million or $0.70 per diluted share in Q2 2024 [14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Dry distiller grain sales volumes were approximately 148,000 tons with an average selling price of $143.63 per ton, down from 133,000 tons at $164.45 per ton in the prior year [12] - Modified distillers grain volumes totaled approximately 19,000 tons at an average selling price of $64.41 per ton [12] - Foreign oil sales volumes increased by approximately 14% with a 26% increase in prices, leading to a 46% increase in sales dollars [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. corn crop is on track for a potential record harvest, which is expected to benefit REX [17] - Ethanol exports are running about 10% ahead of 2024 levels, with expectations for 2025 to set a new export record [16][17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - REX's strategy is guided by profit, position, and policy, focusing on sustainable long-term organic growth through ethanol expansion and carbon capture initiatives [15] - The company is positioned to maximize benefits from the 45Q and 45Z tax credits, enhancing the economics of operations and future earning potential [15][16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management anticipates better performance in Q3 2025 compared to Q2 2025, supported by favorable corn supply trends and steady demand, particularly from rising ethanol exports [16][17] - The company remains confident in its core business outlook and is committed to executing its growth strategy while delivering long-term value to shareholders [17] Other Important Information - REX announced a two-for-one stock split to reward shareholders and increase liquidity, effective for shareholders of record as of September 8, 2025 [5][6] - The company has invested approximately $126.7 million in carbon capture and ethanol expansion projects, remaining within a combined budget range of $220 million to $230 million [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the event held at the One Earth facility and its implications for local support? - The event was well attended by local officials and shareholders, enhancing community relations and support for growth projects [20][21] Question: Was the issue with the interconnection from the local utility resolved? - Yes, the issue has been resolved, allowing for direct utility access [22] Question: What is the outlook for co-products and ethanol margins? - The third quarter is expected to be better than the second quarter, with strong corn oil production but weaker DDG prices relative to corn [24][27] Question: What is the status of the CI score and potential credits without a carbon pipeline? - The CI score has not been publicly discussed due to unclear guidelines, but the removal of Smart Farming from calculations may help improve the score [31][32] Question: If the Class six well is approved, will construction begin soon after the Illinois moratorium expires? - The goal is to begin construction soon after receiving all necessary permits [33][34] Question: What is the expected build time for the pipeline once approvals are received? - The pipeline construction is expected to take a couple of months once permissions are granted [35]
Adecoagro S.A.(AGRO) - 2025 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-08-19 15:00
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated adjusted EBITDA for Q2 2025 reached $55 million, with year-to-date EBITDA amounting to $91 million, reflecting a 60% year-over-year decline in both periods [10][11][12] - Sales totaled $392 million during Q2, with year-to-date sales reaching $716 million, driven by higher volumes sold across operations despite lower prices [10][11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the Sugar, Ethanol, and Energy business, crushing volume was 20% lower year-over-year due to fewer effective milling days and a selective slower milling pace [12][13] - Farming business reported a 12% year-over-year increase in total production, attributed to higher planted area and record productivity in rice operations [12][20] - Adjusted EBITDA for the Farming business totaled $1 million during the quarter, with year-to-date EBITDA at $18 million, impacted by lower international prices and higher costs [21][23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Rice prices have significantly decreased, but customized rice varieties at premium prices are being offered to offset global price drops [7] - Dairy processing volumes are increasing due to a growing market presence, while efforts are ongoing to expand the product portfolio [7][20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to be the lowest cost producer while diversifying operations across geographies and products, which serves as a natural hedge against commodity price fluctuations and weather risks [5][6] - A memorandum of understanding was signed with Tether to explore using a portion of energy production for bitcoin mining, indicating a potential innovative project [8] - The company is focusing on improving margins by reducing leased area by approximately 30% in response to challenging price and cost conditions [7][21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about reaching similar crushing levels to the previous year despite a difficult start to the season, citing improved crushing rates in July and August [31][32] - The company is constructive about sugar and ethanol prices, anticipating a potential increase due to lower sugarcane yields and strong ethanol demand [35][36] - Management acknowledged the need to maintain a net leverage ratio below 2.0 times EBITDA while exploring both organic and inorganic growth opportunities [67][68] Other Important Information - Net debt increased to $699 million, 11% higher year-over-year, primarily due to higher short-term borrowings for working capital [23][24] - The company has committed $45 million to shareholder distribution, including dividends and share repurchases [27] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expectations for crushing figures and sugar prices - Management indicated that despite a challenging first quarter, they expect to crush similar amounts of sugarcane as last year, driven by improved performance in July and August [31][32] - They anticipate sugar prices to react positively due to lower sugarcane yields and strong ethanol demand [35][36] Question: Quality of cane and yield expectations - Management expects yields to be flat year-over-year, with a slight decrease in TRS content due to frost affecting sugarcane [41][45] Question: Triggers for hedging next season - Management believes sugar prices could react in the short term based on Brazilian crop impacts, with plans to accelerate hedging once market conditions clarify [54][55] Question: Partnership with Tether and its impact - The partnership is seen as a potential opportunity to sell energy at attractive prices, with ongoing evaluations to determine feasibility [74]
缩水了?英美签署贸易相关协议,但关键条款仍悬而未决
Di Yi Cai Jing· 2025-06-17 06:15
Group 1: Agreement Overview - The recently signed agreement between the US and UK is described as a "trivial small tariff agreement" by UK Conservative Party leader Badenoch, indicating its limited scope compared to previous commitments [1] - The agreement primarily focuses on tariff reductions for UK automotive and aerospace products, while steel and pharmaceutical tariffs remain under negotiation, leading to a narrower actual coverage than expected [1][5] - The agreement lacks legal binding force, allowing either party to modify or withdraw at any time, raising concerns about its stability and execution [1][8] Group 2: Automotive and Aerospace Tariffs - UK-produced cars will benefit from a tariff quota of 100,000 units annually at a 10% tax rate, which is lower than the 25% tariff imposed on other trade partners [3] - Import tariffs on UK aerospace products will be eliminated immediately upon publication in the Federal Register, aligning with the WTO Civil Aircraft Agreement [4] Group 3: Outstanding Issues - Tariff issues regarding steel and pharmaceuticals remain unresolved, with the US Secretary of Commerce set to evaluate the UK's compliance with supply chain security standards before establishing steel and aluminum tariff quotas [5][6] - The UK government aims for zero tariffs on core steel products, but negotiations are ongoing, and the implementation timeline is uncertain [6][8] Group 4: Agricultural Trade - The agreement allows US farmers to export 13,000 metric tons of beef to the UK annually, a significant increase from the previous quota of 1,000 metric tons, while maintaining strict food safety standards [7] - The UK will also provide a duty-free quota of 1.4 billion liters for US ethanol producers, which is equivalent to the UK's total annual ethanol demand, raising concerns among domestic producers [7] Group 5: Broader Trade Context - The agreement is viewed as a memorandum rather than a comprehensive trade deal, failing to meet the standards of a free trade agreement and violating WTO's most-favored-nation principle [8] - The slow progress of trade negotiations is highlighted, with the UK being the only country to reach such an agreement with the US so far [8]
英国乙醇生产商为应对美国威胁做最后的挣扎
news flash· 2025-06-16 15:22
Core Viewpoint - A UK ethanol producer warns that tariff-free imports from the US pose a risk to its business, indicating that it is nearly too late to save production [1] Group 1: Company Impact - The operator Ensus states that following a trade agreement with the US in May, its plant in Wilton, UK, is facing an imminent shutdown [1] - The shutdown will result in the loss of over 100 jobs at the plant and affect the supply chain of approximately 3,000 local individuals [1]
REX American Resources (REX) - 2026 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-05-28 16:02
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q1 2025, ethanol sales volumes were 70.9 million gallons, down from 74.5 million gallons in Q1 2024, with an average selling price of $1.76 per gallon [11] - Gross profit for Q1 2025 was $14.3 million, slightly down from $14.5 million in Q1 2024, primarily due to lower sales prices for dry distiller grains [12] - Net income attributable to REX shareholders was $8.7 million or $0.51 per diluted share, compared to $10.2 million or $0.58 per diluted share in Q1 2024 [13] - Cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments at the end of Q1 were $315.9 million, reflecting ongoing capital investments and share repurchases [13][14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Dry distiller grain sales volumes were approximately 153,000 tons with an average selling price of $145.65 per ton [11] - Modified distillery grain volumes totaled approximately 22,000 tons with an average selling price of $73.44 per ton [12] - Corn oil sales volumes were approximately 21.4 million pounds with an average selling price of $0.46 per pound [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. ethanol exports through March 2025 were nearly 19% higher than the same period in 2024, with March 2025 exports up 23% compared to March 2024 [17] - The company anticipates stable performance in Q2 2025, expecting another profitable result [17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on organic growth initiatives, including carbon capture and expansion of ethanol production capacity, with a combined budget range of $220 million to $230 million for both projects [6][10] - REX continues to evaluate potential acquisition opportunities that meet strict operational and financial criteria [6] - The company is committed to delivering consistent value to shareholders through share buybacks, having repurchased approximately 822,000 shares for $32.7 million in Q1 2025 [7][14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate uncertain regulatory and market conditions, highlighting the strength of the balance sheet [5] - The company is closely monitoring potential changes to the Inflation Reduction Act and other regulatory developments that could impact future economic decisions [9][29] - Management remains optimistic about the ethanol market, citing favorable conditions and expected record corn production due to strong planting and good weather [31] Other Important Information - The company has maintained a strong financial position with no bank debt [14] - The total investment in carbon capture and ethanol expansion projects stands at approximately $122.7 million as of the end of Q1 2025 [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: What drives REX's ability to consistently deliver performance? - Management attributes consistent profitability to strong leadership, effective communication, and a dedicated team that closely monitors market conditions [20][22][24] Question: What specific deregulation measures would help REX? - Management noted that current regulatory measures are in limbo and emphasized the importance of ongoing communication with contacts in Washington [26][29] Question: Thoughts on industry fundamentals and ethanol margins? - Management expects positive trends in ethanol margins due to anticipated record corn production and favorable export conditions, while also monitoring natural gas prices closely [31][32]
REX American Resources (REX) - 2026 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-05-28 16:00
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q1 2025, ethanol sales volumes were 70.9 million gallons, down from 74.5 million gallons in Q1 2024, with an average selling price of $1.76 per gallon [10] - Gross profit for Q1 2025 was $14.3 million, slightly down from $14.5 million in Q1 2024, primarily due to lower sales prices for dry distiller grains [11] - Net income attributable to REX shareholders was $8.7 million or $0.51 per diluted share, compared to $10.2 million or $0.58 per diluted share in Q1 2024 [12] - Cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments at the end of Q1 were $315.9 million, reflecting ongoing capital investments and share repurchases [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Dry distiller grain sales volumes were approximately 153,000 tons with an average selling price of $145.65 per ton [10] - Modified distillery grain volumes totaled approximately 22,000 tons with an average selling price of $73.44 per ton [11] - Corn oil sales volumes were approximately 21.4 million pounds during the quarter with an average selling price of $0.46 per pound [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. ethanol exports through March 2025 were nearly 19% higher than the same period in 2024, with March 2025 exports up 23% compared to March 2024 [16][17] - The company anticipates stable performance in Q2 2025, expecting another profitable result [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on organic growth initiatives, including carbon capture and expansion of ethanol production capacity, with a combined budget range of $220 million to $230 million for both projects [5][9] - REX continues to evaluate potential acquisition opportunities that meet strict operational and financial criteria [5] - The company is committed to delivering consistent value to shareholders through share buybacks, having repurchased approximately 822,000 shares for $32.7 million in Q1 2025 [6][13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate uncertain regulatory and market conditions, highlighting the strength of the balance sheet [4] - The company is closely monitoring potential changes to the Inflation Reduction Act and other regulatory developments that could impact future economic decisions [8] - Management remains optimistic about the ethanol sector's favorable market conditions and expects record corn production to boost profits for the rest of the year [29] Other Important Information - The company has maintained a strong financial position with no bank debt [13] - The ongoing technical review of the ethanol facility expansion is expected to enhance long-term operational efficiencies [7] Q&A Session Summary Question: What drives REX's ability to consistently deliver performance? - Management attributed consistent profitability to strong leadership, effective monitoring of market conditions, and a dedicated team [20][22] Question: What specific deregulation measures would help smooth the runway? - Management noted that regulatory developments are currently in limbo and emphasized the importance of monitoring changes closely [24][27] Question: Thoughts on industry fundamentals and ethanol margins? - Management expects positive trends in ethanol margins due to strong corn production and favorable export conditions, while also monitoring natural gas prices closely [29]
REX American Resources (REX) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-03-26 20:31
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fiscal year 2024 saw ethanol sales volume increase to 289.7 million gallons from 285.9 million gallons in 2023, with Q4 volumes at 74.7 million gallons compared to 72.1 million gallons in Q4 2023 [15][5] - Gross profit for fiscal year 2024 was $91.5 million, down from $98.2 million in 2023, with Q4 gross profit at $17.6 million compared to $30.4 million in Q4 2023 [18][19] - Net income attributable to REX shareholders for the year was $58.2 million, down from $60.9 million in fiscal year 2023, with Q4 net income at $11.1 million compared to $20.6 million in Q4 2023 [20][21] - Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased to $27.1 million for fiscal year 2024 from $29.4 million in 2023, with Q4 expenses at approximately $6.2 million compared to $7.4 million in Q4 2023 [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Dry distillers grain sales volumes decreased by 3% to 632,000 tons in fiscal year 2024 from 652,000 tons in 2023, with Q4 volumes down by approximately 2% [16] - Modified distillers grain sales volumes increased to 70,000 tons in fiscal year 2024 from 54,000 tons in 2023, with Q4 volumes up by approximately 11% [16] - Corn oil sales volume increased by approximately 1% to 88.1 million pounds in fiscal year 2024 compared to 87.5 million pounds in 2023, with Q4 volumes up by 7% [17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. ethanol exports reached a record high of 1.9 billion gallons in 2024, supporting pricing throughout the year [24] - Canada accounted for approximately 36% of U.S. ethanol exports, while Mexico represented about 21% of U.S. DDG exports in 2024 [25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on efficient and profitable operations while pursuing growth projects, including carbon capture and ethanol facility expansion [6][10] - A share repurchase program is in place, with 373,000 shares repurchased in Q4 and an additional 282,000 shares in Q1 of fiscal year 2025 [7][21] - The company is monitoring policy changes that could impact the ethanol market, including potential tariffs on exports and the debate around year-round E15 blending [24][26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism for a profitable Q1 2025, which would mark the nineteenth consecutive profitable quarter [23] - The company is closely watching regulatory developments and market conditions to make informed decisions [23][24] Other Important Information - The total cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments at the end of the fiscal year were $359.1 million, down from $378.7 million in 2023, primarily due to capital expenditures and share repurchases [21][22] - The company ended the year without any bank debt [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Details on higher capital budget for expansion project - Management explained that the increase in budget is due to the need for energy-efficient equipment capable of handling future production increases, which has also extended the project timeline [29][31] Question: Update on regulatory and permitting side - Management discussed the new FSMA rules and the current review process under the new administration, indicating that previous regulations are under review and may be invalid for implementation [33] Question: Dialogue with EPA on Class VI well permitting - Management confirmed that communication with the EPA has resumed and they are optimistic about moving forward with the permitting process [37][38]