In this articleAROCBIPBIPITwo drilling rigs are pictured in Midland, Texas, U.S., Oct. 8, 2024.Georgina Mccartney | ReutersMany pundits are expecting major indices to be volatile due to macro uncertainty. Moreover, on average, September has historically been the worst month for U.S. stocks.Investors seeking consistent income despite a volatile market can consider adding dividend-paying stocks to their portfolios. To this end, they can rely on the recommendations of top Wall Street analysts, who with their e ...

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]

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - The report focuses on the **Chinese manufacturing and consumer sectors**, highlighting trends in **capital goods**, **technology**, **leisure**, and **beauty** industries [2][3][5]. Core Insights and Arguments 1. **Global Diversification Strategy**: Amid deflation and tariff uncertainties, mid-stream corporates are diversifying capacity globally as a key strategy [3][5]. 2. **Consumer Trends**: Leisure and beauty firms are experiencing solid growth through product differentiation aimed at self-rewarding consumers [3][5]. 3. **Sector Performance**: In July, **capital goods**, **software**, and **real estate** sectors gained the most wallet share, while **technology hardware** saw a significant decline in investor interest [5][10][16]. 4. **Investor Interest Shifts**: The top sectors for investor meetings in July were **technology**, **consumer**, and **financials**, contrasting with previous quarters [3][5]. 5. **Company Visits**: Notable companies visited include **BYD**, **Transsion**, **OmniVision**, and **Mindray**, indicating strong investor interest in these firms [3][5]. Additional Important Insights 1. **Sales Growth in SMID/Materials**: Companies like **Sunresin** and **Shengquan** reported robust sales growth, particularly in overseas markets, with significant projects in the pipeline [8][26][27]. 2. **Leisure and Beauty Sector Dynamics**: Companies such as **Yiwu CCC** and **Chicmax** are focusing on online sales channels and product launches to drive growth [32][37]. 3. **Transport Sector Recovery**: Express shipping prices are recovering, particularly in key regions like Guangdong, indicating a positive trend in logistics [8][32]. 4. **Technology Sector Challenges**: The **China Wafer Level CSP Company** is expanding overseas but faces flat demand in domestic smartphone markets [25]. 5. **Automotive Insights**: Visits to car dealers revealed a shift in consumer sentiment, with a positive outlook for brands like **BYD** amid changing market dynamics [40]. Conclusion The conference call provided a comprehensive overview of the current state of various sectors in China, emphasizing the importance of diversification, consumer trends, and shifts in investor interest. The insights gathered from company visits and sector performance highlight potential investment opportunities and risks in the evolving market landscape.

Core Viewpoint - Brookfield Infrastructure is presented as an ideal investment for those seeking a combination of high dividend yield and rapid growth, currently offering a 4.3% yield while maintaining a strong growth trajectory in dividend payments [3]. Company Overview - Brookfield Infrastructure operates a diverse portfolio of utility, energy, transport, and data-related assets, which are essential for daily operations across various sectors [5]. - Approximately 85% of the company's funds from operations (FFO) are derived from regulated utility businesses and long-term contracts, making it a reliable income source for investors [6]. Dividend Growth - The company has consistently raised its dividend by 8% annually over the past 12 years, with the latest payout ratio at 68% of FFO, indicating a sustainable growth in dividend payments [7][8]. - Adjusted for foreign exchange, the second-quarter FFO increased by 9% year-over-year, aligning with the company's long-term growth expectations [8]. Growth Opportunities - Brookfield Infrastructure benefits from its parent company, Brookfield Asset Management, which has raised $97 billion in capital over the past year, providing ample opportunities for asset acquisition [10]. - The company recently acquired 5,500 miles of pipelines with a capacity of 2.5 million barrels per day, expecting to recoup its investment within seven years [11]. - Brookfield Infrastructure has a capital recycling program, successfully selling developed assets, such as a stake in its U.K. ports operation for $385 million, yielding a 19% internal rate of return [12]. Management and Strategy - With access to around 2,500 investment professionals from Brookfield Asset Management, the company is well-positioned to navigate the alternative-asset landscape and achieve growth within the expected range of 5% to 9% [13].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Brookfield Infrastructure Partners generated funds from operations (FFO) of $638 million or $0.81 per unit in Q2 2025, a 5% increase compared to the previous year, improving to a 9% increase when excluding foreign exchange effects [6] - The increase in FFO was primarily driven by strong organic growth and contributions from tuck-in acquisitions completed in the prior year [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Utilities segment generated FFO of $187 million, slightly ahead of the prior year, benefiting from inflation indexation and approximately $450 million of capital added to the rate base [7] - Transport segment's FFO was $304 million, slightly ahead of the prior year, supported by high asset utilization in global intermodal logistics and increased traffic levels on toll roads [8] - Midstream segment generated FFO of $157 million, representing a 10% increase over the same period last year, driven by strong organic growth [8] - Data segment's FFO was $113 million, a 45% increase compared to the prior year, driven by contributions from a tower portfolio acquisition in India and new capacity commissioning [9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Canadian energy sector is experiencing strong demand, with a significant increase in requested power demand from data centers in Alberta, rising from 200 megawatts to approximately 12 gigawatts [14] - Improved end market diversification with key Canadian infrastructure projects enhancing global market access, including LNG Canada ramping up production [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on capital recycling and has secured $2.4 billion in sale proceeds to date, achieving an annual record for BIP [9] - Recent acquisitions include a leading fiber provider in the U.S. and a railcar leasing platform, with a total capital deployment of $1.3 billion [22][25] - The company aims to capture opportunities in the infrastructure super cycle driven by digitalization and AI [27] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the current market conditions and the positive impact of AI infrastructure on business operations [32] - The Canadian midstream sector is expected to benefit from increased investor interest and organic growth opportunities [20] Other Important Information - The company has completed significant asset sales, including a 23% interest in an Australian export terminal and a partial sale of its UK Port operation, generating substantial proceeds [10][12] Q&A Session Summary Question: What prompted the acceleration in deal velocity? - Management noted that the increase in transaction activity is due to investors returning to the market, driven by strong capital markets and a positive outlook on operating conditions [32] Question: Are there opportunities to monetize partial stakes in Canadian midstream businesses? - Management indicated that while there are opportunities for partial sales, the focus remains on organic growth opportunities within the Canadian midstream sector [34][35] Question: What protections does Brookfield have in place for its investment in Intel's JV? - Management clarified that the arrangement with Intel is largely financial and contractual, minimizing commercial risks [41] Question: How should the potential impact of Class I railroad mergers be viewed? - Management highlighted that as the largest short line operator, they are well-positioned to maintain a competitive market and assist in the merger process [47] Question: Has the attractiveness of the U.S. as an investment geography expanded? - Management confirmed that the U.S. remains attractive due to the AI infrastructure boom, while also noting opportunities in other markets [52] Question: Are there plans to focus more on oil assets in midstream investments? - Management stated that while they continue to look at both gas and oil assets, most opportunities currently lie within existing portfolio expansions [71]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Brookfield Infrastructure Partners generated funds from operations (FFO) of $638 million or $0.81 per unit in Q2 2025, representing a 5% increase year-over-year, which improves to a 9% increase when excluding foreign exchange effects [5] - The increase in FFO was primarily driven by strong organic growth and contributions from tuck-in acquisitions completed in the prior year [5] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Utilities segment generated FFO of $187 million, slightly ahead of the prior year, benefiting from inflation indexation and approximately $450 million of capital added to the rate base [6] - Transport segment's FFO was $304 million, slightly ahead of the prior year, supported by high asset utilization in global intermodal logistics and increased traffic levels on toll roads [6] - Midstream segment generated FFO of $157 million, a 10% increase year-over-year, driven by strong organic growth, particularly in Canadian diversified midstream operations [7] - Data segment's FFO was $113 million, a significant increase of 45% compared to the prior year, driven by acquisitions and new capacity commissioning [8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Canadian energy sector is experiencing strong demand, with a notable increase in power demand from data centers, particularly in Alberta, which has seen requests for approximately 12 gigawatts of power [14] - Improved end market diversification with key Canadian infrastructure projects enhancing global market access, including LNG Canada, which is set to ramp up production [15] - Canadian natural gas gathering and processing business has seen a 15% increase in utilization over the past two years [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on capital recycling and has secured $2.4 billion in sale proceeds to date, achieving an annual record for BIP [8] - Recent investments include acquiring Hotwire, a leading provider of bulk fiber services, and a railcar leasing platform, indicating a strategy to expand in data transport and midstream segments [22][24] - The company aims to capture opportunities in the AI infrastructure boom, which is driving demand for power transmission and midstream investments [50] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the current market conditions and the positive outlook for the Canadian midstream sector, driven by strong demand and investment interest [18] - The company anticipates strong EBITDA growth in its Canadian midstream platforms, with expected growth of CAD 650 million to 750 million between 2024 and 2027 [20] - Management noted that the U.S. remains an attractive investment geography, particularly due to the AI infrastructure boom [50] Other Important Information - The company has completed significant asset sales, including a 23% interest in an Australian export terminal and a 60% stake in a European data center portfolio, generating substantial proceeds [10][12] - The company is focused on integrating new acquisitions and initiating value creation activities post-acquisition [25] Q&A Session Summary Question: What has prompted the acceleration in deal velocity? - Management noted that increased market activity is due to investors returning to the market and strong capital availability, leading to more transactions [30] Question: Are there opportunities to monetize partial stakes in Canadian midstream businesses? - Management indicated that while there are opportunities for partial sales, the focus remains on organic growth opportunities in the midstream sector [32] Question: What protections does Brookfield have regarding the Intel JV? - Management clarified that the arrangement with Intel is largely financial and contractual, minimizing commercial risks [39] Question: How does the potential merger of Class I railroads impact Genesee and Wyoming? - Management highlighted that as the largest short line operator, they are well-positioned to maintain a pro-competitive market amidst potential mergers [44] Question: Has the attractiveness of the U.S. as an investment geography expanded? - Management confirmed that the U.S. remains attractive due to the AI infrastructure boom, with significant opportunities for capital deployment [50] Question: What is the outlook for midstream investments in oil versus gas? - Management stated that while they continue to explore both oil and gas opportunities, current focus is on investments within existing portfolio companies [69] Question: What is the approach to data center investments? - Management indicated a focus on both campus-style data centers and bespoke large-scale projects, depending on customer needs [70] Question: Is there interest in energy infrastructure companies with both traditional and renewable assets? - Management noted that such investments would depend on the specific situation, but collaboration across Brookfield's groups is common for sourcing and completing transactions [76]

Industry Outlook - The rail industry is performing well, with CSX having a strong quarter [1] - The capital equipment sector is expected to experience a boom due to legislation [3] - The transport sector is viewed positively [5] Company Performance - CSX's prospects are favorable, regardless of potential bids, due to improved conditions [2] - Norfolk Southern is favored due to a bullish outlook on industry and industrials [1] Investment Strategy - Recommends against selling rail or capital equipment companies [3] - The thesis of shorting transports based on limited cross-border trade is flawed due to underestimation of internal growth [4]

Group 1 - NTG Nordic Transport Group A/S is set to release its H1 2025 interim results on August 11, 2025, in the evening [1] - A conference call will take place on August 12, 2025, at 10:00 am CET, where the Group CEO and CFO will present the financial report [1] - The presentation will be followed by a Q&A session for participants [1] Group 2 - Participants wishing to ask questions during the conference call must register through a provided link [2] - It is recommended for participants to dial in 10 minutes prior to the scheduled start time [2] - Contact information for Investor Relations is provided for further inquiries [2]

Group 1 - Brookfield Infrastructure Partners will hold its second quarter 2025 conference call and webcast on July 31, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. (ET) [1] - Results will be released on the same day before 7:00 a.m. (ET) and will be available on the company's website [1] - Participants can join the conference call or webcast by pre-registering [1][4] Group 2 - Brookfield Infrastructure is a leading global infrastructure company that operates high-quality, long-life assets in various sectors including utilities, transport, midstream, and data across the Americas, Asia Pacific, and Europe [2] - The company focuses on assets with contracted and regulated revenues that generate predictable and stable cash flows [2] - Investors can access Brookfield Infrastructure's portfolio through Brookfield Infrastructure Partners L.P. or Brookfield Infrastructure Corporation [2] Group 3 - Brookfield Infrastructure is the flagship listed infrastructure company of Brookfield Asset Management, which manages over $1 trillion in assets [3]

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for Prysmian (PRY IM) with a target price of EUR74 and Emerson Electric (EMR US) with a target price of USD153, indicating positive investment opportunities in the capital goods sector [7][15][76][77]. Core Insights - The HSBC Global Composite Capex Lead Indicator declined to -30 in May 2025 from -7 in March 2025, reflecting a slowdown in global capital expenditure due to tariff volatility, although some sectors showed improvement [7][21]. - The FTSE World Industrials Index has shown resilience, increasing by 9% quarter-to-date despite geopolitical uncertainties and tariff-related challenges [7][14]. - The report highlights a potential for positive performance in the FTSE World Industrials over the next six months, supported by a reading of -30 in the lead indicator [7][21]. Summary by Sections Global Capex Outlook - The report forecasts global capex to reach approximately USD3.9 trillion in 2025, with sectors like Software, Airlines, and Computer Hardware expected to lead growth [23][24]. - The capital goods sector is experiencing varied performance across regions, with EMEA showing improvement while APAC and the Americas faced declines [7][31][35]. Regional Analysis - **Americas**: The capex lead indicator declined marginally to -36 in May 2025, with mixed performance across sectors; manufacturing improved while construction and utilities declined [31][32]. - **EMEA**: The capex lead indicator improved to -11 in May 2025, driven by early-cycle improvements in manufacturing and transport [33][34]. - **Asia Pacific**: The capex lead indicator fell to -40 in May 2025, primarily due to a significant decline in mainland China, although Japan showed some improvement [35][36]. Subsector Performance - **Manufacturing**: The lead indicator improved to +13 in May 2025, with positive trends in the Americas and EMEA, while mainland China declined [43][44]. - **Utilities**: The lead indicator rose significantly to +45 in May 2025, indicating strong growth in solar and gas generation investments [56][57]. - **Consumer**: The lead indicator improved slightly to -56 in May 2025, with low-level improvements in the Americas and EMEA, while Japan and mainland China saw declines [58][59]. Stock Recommendations - **Prysmian**: The company is well-positioned to benefit from US electrification trends and has a strong demand outlook in the T&D segment, justifying a Buy rating [68][69]. - **Emerson Electric**: The company is expected to benefit from a transformation towards automation and improved margins, leading to a Buy rating with a target price of USD153 [76][77].