Core Insights - Stantec Inc. (STN) has achieved a 39% year-to-date gain, significantly outperforming the industry's 6% decline, while U.S. peers have shown mixed results [1][8] - The company is benefiting from strong global demand for infrastructure, water security, and climate-resilient solutions, supported by long-term trends such as climate change initiatives and increased infrastructure investments [3][4] Financial Performance - In Q1 2025, Stantec's net revenues grew by 13.3% year-over-year, with organic revenue increasing by 5.9% when excluding acquisitions and currency effects [4] - The U.S. market saw a 2.4% organic growth, while Canada experienced a 15% revenue increase year-over-year, with key contributions from wastewater projects and large industrial developments [5][4] - Globally, revenues rose by 20.3% year-over-year, with the U.K. water business growing over 20% and energy transition projects boosting results in Australia and New Zealand [5] Margin Expansion - Stantec demonstrated efficient growth with project margins improving by 10 basis points to 54.3% and adjusted EBITDA margins rising by 70 basis points to 16.2% in Q1 2025 [9][10] - Lower administrative and marketing expenses, along with a proactive hiring strategy, are expected to enhance workforce utilization and operating leverage in the future [10][11] Analyst Sentiment - There has been a notable increase in positive analyst sentiment, with five analysts raising their 2025 earnings estimates and another five upgrading projections for 2026 [12][16] - Earnings are projected to grow by 19.5% in 2025 and 12% in 2026, with revenue expectations lifted to an 11% increase in 2025 and a 10% gain in 2026 [12][14] Valuation Concerns - Stantec's forward P/E ratio stands at 26.74, above its five-year median of 22.56, raising concerns about its valuation compared to peers like Tetra Tech and AECOM [17] - The elevated valuation may limit upside potential unless the company delivers significant earnings outperformance [17][18]

Summary of Parsons (PSN) Conference Call Company Overview - Parsons operates in the consulting and engineering sectors, with approximately 20,000 employees across 23 countries and all 50 states [4][5] - The company reports in two segments: Federal (52% of revenue) and Critical Infrastructure (48% of revenue) [5] Core Business Segments 1. **Cyber and Intelligence**: - Represents about 20% of revenue with over 20% growth in the last two years [5][6] - Focuses predominantly on offensive cyber operations (75%) [6] 2. **Space and Missile Defense**: - Accounts for 10% of revenue; Parsons is the leading contractor for the Missile Defense Agency [7] 3. **Critical Infrastructure Protection**: - Comprises 17% of revenue, focusing on security for embassies and consulates [9] 4. **Transportation**: - Represents 26% of revenue; involved in extensive road, bridge, rail, and airport projects globally [12] 5. **Urban Development**: - Accounts for 12% of revenue, with significant projects in the Middle East [14] Financial Guidance and Contract Impact - Parsons cut guidance due to a significant contract with the Department of State, which was paused but not canceled [16][19] - Despite the guidance cut, the stock rose by 7% [16] - The company anticipates 17% total growth and 14% organic growth, with strong performance expected in both segments [21] Federal Business Insights - The federal segment is projected to grow by 19% total and 17% organically [21] - Parsons is well-positioned for the Golden Dome missile defense program, leveraging its long-standing experience in system engineering and integration [26][27] - The FAA modernization effort includes $12.5 billion in funding, with Parsons having a long history of supporting FAA projects [32][34] Market Trends and Opportunities - The company is aligned with defense budget priorities, focusing on areas such as cyber, munitions modernization, and border security [42][44] - Parsons is actively pursuing M&A opportunities, targeting companies with over 10% growth and EBITDA margins [52] Middle East Operations - The Middle East segment is projected to grow double digits, with significant infrastructure projects underway in Saudi Arabia and the UAE [75][76] - The UAE's population growth necessitates extensive infrastructure development, which Parsons is heavily involved in [75] - The company is managing major projects like the King Salmon International Airport and the Riyadh metro [78][80] Utilization and Efficiency - Parsons maintains strong employee utilization rates between 80-90% [56] - The company has successfully moved away from legacy programs, leading to improved margins [71] Conclusion - Parsons is strategically positioned for growth in both federal and critical infrastructure sectors, with a strong focus on technology and integration capabilities. The company is optimistic about future opportunities, particularly in the Middle East and federal contracts, despite recent guidance adjustments.