One thing I love about the AI data center boom is that it just keeps creating winners in unexpected places. Take Jacob Solutions. It's the engineering construction firm that went through a complicated merger breakup deal last year that was very successful but is now cleaning up thanks in large part to its data center exposure which has become a major growth driver for the company.Don't take it from me though. Let's check in with Bob Pad. He's the chairman and CEO of Jacob Solution more.Mr. . Bard, welcome b ...

Company Overview - EMCOR Group, Inc. (NYSE:EME) is involved in electrical and mechanical construction, industrial, and facilities services, providing design, installation, operation, and maintenance for various systems [2] - The company also offers facility management, energy solutions, and specialized services for infrastructure, buildings, and industrial projects [2] Investment Perspective - Jim Cramer highlighted EMCOR as a "very good stock," noting its alignment with current market trends, particularly in engineering construction and equipment servicing [1] - The company benefits from the ongoing wave of data center construction, similar to other successful firms in the sector [1]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For FY 2025, underlying NPAT A was $279 million, a 33% increase from FY 2024, while statutory NPAT rose 82% to $149 million [5] - Underlying EBITDA increased by 25% to $474 million, with a cash conversion rate of 98% [5][22] - Pro forma revenue declined by 2.5% to $10.6 billion, reflecting a focus on revenue quality and selective tendering [18][22] - The net debt to EBITDA ratio improved to 0.9 times, down from 1.4 times in FY 2024 [5][22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Transport segment earnings increased by 11.1% to $278 million, with an EBITDA margin of 5.2% [8] - Energy and Utilities segment earnings rose by 43.9% to $122 million, despite a revenue decrease of 7.7% to $3 billion [11] - Facilities segment revenue remained stable at $2.2 billion, with earnings increasing to $151 million and a 7% EBITDA margin [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Government funding allocated increased by almost 6% in 2025, supporting infrastructure projects [3] - The energy sector is experiencing growth driven by decarbonization and government policies promoting energy investment [12] - The Australian transport agency spend is expected to remain subdued in the short term, while New Zealand's infrastructure programs are anticipated to support demand [35][36] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on a portfolio simplification strategy to enhance revenue quality and reduce volatility [4][7] - Future growth will be driven by organic growth within existing core markets, with selective consideration of bolt-on acquisitions [31][34] - The company aims to modernize work practices and invest in technology to improve productivity and customer experience [34] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving a 4.5% average EBITDA margin target for FY 2026, emphasizing the importance of quality revenue [42] - The outlook for FY 2026 includes expectations of flat to slightly lower underlying revenue, with a focus on maintaining margin improvements [37] - Management noted that while short-term revenue may be subdued, medium-term opportunities remain strong [41][50] Other Important Information - The company announced an on-market share buyback of up to $230 million and increased its dividend payout ratio to 60%-70% of underlying NPATA [33][32] - Safety metrics improved, with a 20% reduction in injury frequency rates [16] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on the flat to down revenue guidance for next year? - Management highlighted the focus on quality revenue and selective opportunities, acknowledging subdued volumes in road services and the runoff of certain contracts [39][40] Question: What is the confidence level for achieving greater than 4.5% average margin? - Management expressed confidence in achieving the margin target, citing progress in price, cost, and productivity improvements [42] Question: Will there be a cleaner year in terms of significant items next year? - Management indicated that while some legal matters may continue, the nature of significant items is expected to decrease [45][46] Question: What are the expectations for road activity in Australia? - Management noted that road maintenance needs to increase, and while volumes are currently down, there are early signs of improvement [50][51] Question: How does the $4.5 billion in preferred business status influence revenue guidance? - Management confirmed that these contracts are typically long-term and will be factored into revenue expectations [60][64] Question: What portion of FY 2026 revenue guidance is already secured? - Management indicated that typically, about 75% of revenue would be secured at this stage of the year [72] Question: What earnings benefit is expected from the cost-out program in 2026? - Management expects a significant portion of the cost savings to contribute to FY 2026 results, with ongoing cost pressures to be addressed [75][76] Question: Will there be any net cash impact from divestment activity in 2026? - Management anticipates proceeds from the sale of Keolis Downer to impact cash flow in FY 2026 [77][79] Question: What types of M&A are being considered? - Management is focused on complementary bolt-on acquisitions that enhance existing capabilities, particularly in transport and energy [80][81]