Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted EBITDA for Q2 2025 increased to $591 million from $524 million in the prior period, reflecting improved underlying operating performance and contributions from recent acquisitions [19][20] - Adjusted EFO for the quarter was $234 million, benefiting from lower interest expenses due to reduced corporate borrowings compared to the prior period [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Industrial segment generated adjusted EBITDA of $307 million, an increase from $213 million in 2024, supported by tax benefits and strong performance in advanced energy storage operations [20] - The Business Services segment's adjusted EBITDA rose to $205 million from $182 million last year, driven by increased volumes of new insurance premiums and stable performance in technology services [21] - The Infrastructure Services segment's adjusted EBITDA decreased to CAD 109 million from CAD 157 million, impacted by the sale of the offshore oil services shuttle tanker operation [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. economy showed resilience with stabilized GDP expectations and low unemployment, while Europe is experiencing increased stimulus spending [11][13] - The GCC markets in the Middle East remain strong, and India continues to be a growth economy [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on acquiring high-quality, market-leading businesses with strong competitive advantages, which provide mission-critical products and services [14] - The strategy includes leveraging secondary market opportunities to surface value and enhance shareholder returns through buybacks and reinvestments [5][9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism regarding the operating environment, noting that while there are challenges, the principles of buying high-quality businesses are serving well [14] - The company is confident in its ability to maintain and increase margins despite economic slowdowns, with a focus on optimizing operations and enhancing productivity [15][16] Other Important Information - The company has approximately $2.9 billion in corporate liquidity, allowing for flexibility in capital allocation [22] - A buyback program has returned nearly $160 million to owners, with plans to renew the normal course issuer bid to repurchase an additional 8 million units and shares [23][75] Q&A Session Summary Question: Performance of Scientific Games - Management acknowledged that while hardware deliveries were lower, the overall EBITDA performance was flat, and they remain positive about the business's growth potential [26][30] Question: Brand Safeway's Repositioning - Management discussed the ongoing transformation plan to pivot towards higher growth markets, despite current volume softness [31][33] Question: Leveraging AI for Productivity - Management highlighted numerous AI initiatives across the portfolio that have led to significant operational improvements and cost savings [36][41] Question: Impact of the Big Beautiful Bill - Management indicated that the provisions in the bill are expected to be net positive, particularly regarding accelerated depreciation and interest deductibility [44][46] Question: Capital Allocation and Buybacks - Management confirmed commitment to the $250 million buyback program and discussed the ongoing dialogue regarding preferred shares with Brookfield Corporation [72][76] Question: Secondary Transaction Insights - Management explained the rationale behind the selection of assets for the secondary transaction, emphasizing the favorable terms achieved [54][56]