Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The third quarter operating profit was almost $7 million, an improvement from the second quarter's break-even results [4] - Q3 2025 EBITDA increased to $12.5 million, up from $9.3 million in Q2 [4] - Consolidated revenues were $76.6 million, up 24% year over year, while gross profit improved 38% to $10 million [10] - Net income for Q3 2025 was $13.3 million, or $1.78 per share, compared to $15.6 million, or $2.14 per share in 2024 [11] - EBITDA for Q3 2025 was $12.5 million versus $25.7 million for the same period last year [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Utility coal mining segment's results were impacted by contractual pricing mechanics, leading to a reduced per ton sales price [4] - Contract mining segment saw tons delivered grow 20% year over year and 3% sequentially, driven by higher customer demand [5] - Minerals and royalties segment's operating profit increased due to improved earnings from equity investments and higher royalty revenues [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Mississippi Lignite Mining Company's results were affected by a reduced contractually determined per ton sales price in 2025 [11] - The contract mining segment is positioned as a core driver of future growth, with a strong pipeline of potential new deals [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The long-term strategy aims for $150 million of annual EBITDA in the next five to seven years [8] - The company is focused on execution, operational discipline, and driving long-term returns for shareholders [18] - Recent government support is strengthening all business segments [18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the trajectory and future growth, citing strong demand for energy and services [18] - Anticipated improvements in profitability for 2026, driven by expected improvements in sales price and cost per ton delivered [12] Other Important Information - The company is terminating its pension plan, which will trigger a non-cash settlement charge [15] - Total debt outstanding decreased to $80.2 million from $95.5 million at June 30 [16] - The company is forecasting up to $44 million in capital spending for the remainder of the year and up to $70 million in 2026 [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Inquiry about contract mining segment's ROIC - Management indicated that the current ROIC is affected by both past and future projects, with a mismatch between assets and current profitability [22][24] Question: Preference between drag line and surface work - Management stated that they are flexible and can provide various mining services, emphasizing the importance of finding long-term partners [29][30] Question: Status of solar project - Management confirmed that they are diligently working on getting solar projects safe harbored for tax credit purposes [53]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated revenues increased to $68 million, up 30% year over year, primarily driven by the utility coal mining segment [15] - Consolidated net income decreased to $3.3 million from $6 million in the prior year, with diluted earnings per share down 46% year on year [16] - EBITDA was reported at $9.3 million compared to $13.5 million in the same period last year [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Utility Coal Mining segment faced operational disruptions, leading to a decline in operating profit and segment adjusted EBITDA, primarily due to challenges at Mississippi Lignite Mining Company [16][18] - North American Mining revenues net of reimbursed costs rose 3%, driven by increased parts sales, but were offset by fewer tons delivered and higher operating costs [18] - Minerals and Royalties segment saw a 30% rise in revenues, largely due to higher natural gas prices, with operating profit and EBITDA increasing when excluding last year's one-time gain [18][19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The utility coal mining segment's challenges were linked to customer inefficiencies at power plants, affecting coal mining operations [8] - The contract mining segment experienced fewer trends delivered due to temporary mechanical issues, but parts sales helped offset some losses [9] - The company anticipates stronger results in the latter half of the year as new contracts and parts sales contribute positively [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on long-term contracts and investments that produce steady earnings and cash flows, aiming for a compounding growth model [12][13] - New segment names were introduced to enhance communication with stakeholders, reflecting a strategic effort to clarify business activities [5][14] - The company is optimistic about future growth, particularly in the contract mining segment, and is actively pursuing new long-term projects [48] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate temporary challenges and expects improving results in the second half of the year [7][22] - The operational discipline and focus on long-term returns for shareholders remain a priority, with optimism about prospects for 2026 and beyond [22] - Management acknowledged the favorable environment for energy demand and government support, which is expected to benefit all business segments [22] Other Important Information - The company plans to terminate its pension plan by the end of the year, which will trigger a non-cash settlement charge but simplify its financial structure [20] - Total debt outstanding as of June 30 was $95.5 million, with total liquidity at $139.9 million [20] - The company is forecasting up to $86 million in capital spending for the year, primarily for new business development [21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Why were volumes lighter in the coal segment? - Management indicated it was a collection of minor issues and not a cause for concern going forward [25][27] Question: Will MMLC return to profit next year? - Management confirmed expectations for MMLC to return to gross profit, contingent on improved pricing and consistent operations [28][29] Question: Why did North American Mining volumes drop? - The drop was attributed to reduced customer demand and mechanical issues with equipment, but repairs have been successful [41][42] Question: What is the allocation of the increased CapEx? - Most of the CapEx is related to growth initiatives and securing new contracts, with a focus on long-term projects [43][45] Question: How does the company view its leverage post CapEx cycle? - Management aims for less leverage over time, maintaining a conservative balance sheet to mitigate risks [75][76] Question: Can you elaborate on the parts business in contract mining? - The parts business is an evolution of the model to better serve customers by stocking hard-to-find components on-site [80] Question: Are draglines moved from coal mines to new quarries? - Draglines used in contract mining are separate from those in coal mining, and new quarries may utilize existing equipment or new acquisitions [82][83]