Core Insights - Hotchkis & Wiley Mid-Cap Value Fund's third-quarter 2025 investor letter highlights strong equity market performance, with major indices reaching all-time highs, driven by enthusiasm for AI, anticipated Federal Reserve rate cuts, and robust corporate earnings [1] - The fund outperformed the Russell Midcap Value Index, achieving a gain of 7.74% compared to the index's 6.18% [1] Company Overview: Fluor Corporation (NYSE:FLR) - Fluor Corporation is an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) company, primarily generating revenue from full EPC services [3] - The stock experienced a one-month return of -5.10% and a 52-week decline of 22.26%, closing at $43.40 per share with a market capitalization of $7.016 billion as of December 09, 2025 [2] Performance Analysis - Fluor's stock underperformed in the third quarter due to a weak earnings report and reduced forward guidance [3] - Despite the underperformance, Fluor is considered a high-quality professional services company with a medium-risk business model, expected to grow without reinvested capital [3] Investment Sentiment - Fluor Corporation is not among the top 30 most popular stocks among hedge funds, with 64 hedge fund portfolios holding its stock at the end of the third quarter, up from 57 in the previous quarter [4] - While acknowledging Fluor's potential, the company believes certain AI stocks present greater upside potential and lower downside risk [4]

Core Insights - Artificial intelligence (AI) is identified as the greatest investment opportunity of the current era, with a strong emphasis on the urgent need for energy to support its growth [1][2][3] - A specific company is highlighted as a key player in the AI energy sector, owning critical energy infrastructure assets that are essential for meeting the increasing energy demands of AI technologies [3][7][8] Investment Landscape - Wall Street is investing hundreds of billions into AI, but there is a pressing concern regarding the energy supply needed to sustain this growth [2] - AI data centers, such as those powering large language models, consume energy equivalent to that of small cities, indicating a significant strain on global power grids [2][3] - The company in focus is positioned to benefit from the surge in demand for electricity driven by AI, making it a potentially lucrative investment opportunity [3][6][8] Company Profile - The company is described as a "toll booth" operator in the AI energy boom, collecting fees from energy exports and playing a crucial role in U.S. LNG exportation [5][7] - It is noted for its debt-free status and substantial cash reserves, which amount to nearly one-third of its market capitalization, providing a strong financial foundation [8][10] - The company also holds a significant equity stake in another AI-related venture, offering investors indirect exposure to multiple growth opportunities in the AI sector [9][10] Market Dynamics - The current market environment is characterized by rising electricity prices and strained power grids, creating a backdrop for the company's growth potential [2][3] - The company is well-positioned to capitalize on the onshoring trend driven by tariffs, as it is expected to support the rebuilding and retrofitting of domestic manufacturing facilities [5][6] - The influx of talent into the AI sector is anticipated to drive continuous innovation and advancements, further solidifying the importance of energy infrastructure [12][14] Future Outlook - The company is poised to benefit from the AI infrastructure supercycle, the onshoring boom, and the surge in U.S. LNG exports, positioning it as a critical player in the future of clean and reliable power [14] - The potential for significant returns is highlighted, with projections suggesting a possible 100% return within 12 to 24 months for investors who act now [15][19]

Core Insights - The global market for Solar Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) services is expected to grow significantly, nearly tripling from $0.4 trillion in 2024 to $1.2 trillion by 2034, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 11.9% from 2025 to 2034 [1][2]. Market Drivers and Segments - Key drivers for this growth include global climate commitments, national net-zero targets, and government policies that lower financial barriers for solar project development, particularly in countries like India [4]. - Technological advancements in solar panel efficiency and decreasing module costs are enhancing the economic viability of large-scale solar installations, making them more competitive against traditional energy sources [5]. Market Segmentation - **Technology**: The photovoltaic solar segment accounted for 80% of global market revenue in 2024, due to its scalability and cost-effectiveness, making it a preferred solution for corporate carbon reduction and energy transition efforts [5]. - **End-Use**: The commercial and industrial (C&I) segment was the largest in 2024, capturing over 40% of market revenue as businesses adopt solar to manage electricity costs and meet sustainability goals [5]. - **Installation Type**: Rooftop installations held over 50% of total revenue in 2024, becoming central to decentralized power generation by providing clean power directly at the point of consumption [5]. - **Project Size**: Medium-sized projects (1 to 10 megawatts) represented the largest share by size in 2024, appealing to commercial and industrial consumers seeking energy cost savings without the complexities of large utility-scale farms [5].

Core Insights - The energy sector is experiencing unprecedented load growth driven by data center demand, leading to a shift in generation and procurement strategies among utilities [2][4][5] - Traditional engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) models are being disrupted by urgent timelines and equipment shortages, necessitating a more integrated approach to project execution [8][9][13] - Workforce shortages are emerging as a critical constraint, with a significant need for skilled labor to support the expanding energy infrastructure [17][18] Group 1: Load Growth and Demand - Utilities are signing large-load agreements to meet accelerated demand, with Southern Co. securing over 2 GW in recent contracts and projecting a 50-GW pipeline through the mid-2030s [2] - NextEra Energy has a 30-GW renewables and storage backlog, driven by partnerships with data centers, highlighting the shift towards bespoke generation agreements [3] - Dominion Energy reports a 17% increase in data center demand, with 47 GW in various contracting stages, emphasizing the need for timely resource development [4] Group 2: EPC Model Transformation - The traditional EPC model is being inverted due to geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions, leading to a focus on urgency rather than cost [8][9] - Companies like Burns & McDonnell are integrating consulting with execution to address the complexities of energy transition and project delivery [13] - The urgency of data center timelines is forcing utilities to adapt their project execution strategies, with a shift from "Ready, Set, Go" to "Ready, Go, Set" [13] Group 3: Workforce Challenges - The global power engineering workforce needs to double by 2030 to meet infrastructure demands, with significant competition for skilled labor [17] - Companies are investing in workforce development initiatives, such as Burns & McDonnell's Construction Academy, to address labor shortages [18] - Bechtel and Kiewit are implementing training programs to build a self-sustaining pipeline of skilled workers, recognizing the critical need for labor in project execution [18]

Group 1: Transformation of EPC Relationships - The relationship between utilities and EPC firms is evolving from traditional fixed-price contracts to integrated, risk-transparent partnerships driven by real-time data and collaborative planning [1][2] - Power projects in the 2020s require simultaneous optimization across design, procurement, construction, and operations due to supply chain disruptions and increasing demand, particularly from data centers [1][2] - EPC leadership is acknowledging a shift away from fixed-price delivery towards collaborative cost-sharing models, as traditional risk allocation is becoming less viable in the current market [1][2] Group 2: Early Engagement and Demand Certainty - Utilities are increasingly engaging EPC partners early in the project cycle, with binding customer agreements shaping project economics, as seen with American Electric Power's (AEP) 28 GW incremental load growth [2][3] - Entergy's "Superpower Mississippi" initiative demonstrates how early agreements with large customers can lower customer rates and provide financial stability for utilities [2][3] - Dominion's staged contracting approach ensures cost recovery and predictable resource mobilization, with 47 GW of data center demand in various stages of contracting [3] Group 3: Speed and Flexibility in EPC Landscape - The competitive landscape for EPCs is shifting, with smaller and specialized firms gaining market share due to the demand for rapid mobilization and flexibility [4][5] - Companies like Fagen Inc. and USP&E Global are focusing on quick deployment solutions for gas turbine power plants, catering to immediate data center needs [5][6] - Modular natural gas units and on-site battery systems are being deployed to support data center growth, highlighting the trend towards fast-track energy solutions [7][8] Group 4: Digital Tools and Real-Time Analytics - The integration of digital platforms and AI into project delivery is enhancing procurement and scheduling visibility, allowing for proactive risk management [8][9] - Companies like Kiewit are developing AI tools to automate design processes, significantly reducing project timelines and improving competitiveness [9][10] - The use of augmented reality and collaborative robotics in construction is optimizing workflows and enhancing productivity, leading to better cost control and fewer surprises [9][10] Group 5: Data-Driven Collaboration - The shift towards transparent, collaborative contracting is enabling EPCs to share risks and costs more effectively, moving away from adversarial fixed-price models [10] - Close partnerships between clients and EPCs are essential for meeting accelerated project timelines, as demonstrated by a project that transitioned from an open-book contract to a firm-lump-sum agreement [10]

Financial Performance - Revenue reached $3.4 billion[8], while the company experienced a consolidated segment loss of $439 million[44], impacted by a $653 million charge related to the Santos litigation[45] - Adjusted EBITDA was $161 million[44] and diluted adjusted EPS was $0.68[44] - New awards totaled $3.3 billion[9], with 99% being reimbursable[9] - Backlog reached $28.2 billion[10], with 82% being reimbursable[10] Segment Results - Urban Solutions reported a segment profit of $61 million[17], with new awards of $1.8 billion[17] and a backlog of $20.5 billion[14, 17], representing 73% of the total backlog[17] - Energy Solutions experienced a segment loss of $533 million[30], including the $653 million court ruling related to the Santos project[30], with new awards of $222 million[30] and a backlog of $5.121 billion[28] - Mission Solutions reported a segment profit of $34 million[38], with new awards of $1.3 billion[38] and a backlog of $2.6 billion[36, 38] NuScale Investment - A major monetization milestone was achieved with the conversion of the remaining 111 million shares[7] - Monetization of Class A shares is expected to begin in November and finish in the second quarter of 2026[7] Outlook - The company expects 2025 new awards to reach $13 billion[57] - The company anticipates operating cash flow between $250 to $300 million[54] - The company projects adjusted EBITDA between $510 to $540 million and adjusted EPS between $2.10 to $2.25[56]

Core Thesis - Fluor Corporation (FLR) is positioned as a compelling investment opportunity due to its strategic transition towards high-growth sectors such as clean energy, hydrogen, and AI-focused data center construction, moving away from traditional oil and gas projects [2][4]. Valuation Metrics - As of October 21st, FLR's share price was $48.79, with trailing and forward P/E ratios of 1.80 and 17.64 respectively [1]. - The company is trading at a forward-looking valuation of 0.44x NTM sales and 12.9x NTM EBITDA, which is attractive compared to its peers [2]. Revenue and Profitability Growth - Analysts project a 4.1% revenue growth in FY26, driven by diversification into clean energy and technology-driven infrastructure projects [3]. - EBITDA is expected to expand by 35.3%, indicating operational leverage and higher-margin projects in new markets [3]. Strategic Positioning - FLR's early positioning in emerging energy and AI infrastructure markets, combined with its scale and expertise, makes it a uniquely undervalued opportunity within the EPC sector [4]. - The company's focus on large-scale, long-term projects provides stable revenue streams and enhances its resilience against the volatility of traditional oil and gas projects [3][4]. Investment Outlook - Investors may benefit from FLR's near-term earnings expansion and potential re-rating as the market recognizes the value of its strategic transition and long-term growth trajectory [4].

Core Insights - Artificial intelligence (AI) is identified as the greatest investment opportunity of the current era, with a strong emphasis on the urgency to invest in AI technologies now [1][13] - The energy demands of AI technologies are highlighted, with data centers consuming as much energy as small cities, leading to concerns about power grid capacity and rising electricity prices [2][3] Investment Opportunity - A specific company is presented as a significant investment opportunity, possessing critical energy infrastructure assets that are essential for supporting the anticipated surge in energy demand from AI data centers [3][6] - This company is characterized as a "toll booth" operator in the AI energy boom, benefiting from the increasing need for energy as AI technologies expand [4][5] Energy Infrastructure - The company owns vital nuclear energy infrastructure, positioning it strategically within the U.S. energy landscape and aligning with the country's next-generation power strategy [7] - It is noted for its capability to execute large-scale engineering, procurement, and construction projects across various energy sectors, including oil, gas, and renewables [7][8] Financial Position - The company is described as being debt-free and holding a significant cash reserve, amounting to nearly one-third of its market capitalization, which provides a strong financial foundation [8][10] - It also has a substantial equity stake in another AI-related company, offering investors indirect exposure to multiple growth opportunities in the AI sector [9][10] Market Trends - The article discusses the broader market trends, including the onshoring boom driven by tariffs and the surge in U.S. LNG exports, which the company is well-positioned to capitalize on [14] - The influx of talent into the AI sector is noted, ensuring continuous innovation and advancements, further solidifying the importance of investing in AI-related companies [12]

Core Insights - Artificial intelligence (AI) is identified as the greatest investment opportunity of the current era, with a strong emphasis on the urgent need for energy to support its growth [1][2][3] - A specific company is highlighted as a key player in the AI energy sector, owning critical energy infrastructure assets that are essential for meeting the increasing energy demands of AI technologies [3][7][8] Investment Landscape - Wall Street is investing hundreds of billions into AI, but there is a pressing concern regarding the energy supply needed to sustain this growth [2] - AI data centers, which power large language models like ChatGPT, consume energy equivalent to that of a small city, indicating a significant strain on global power grids [2] - The company in focus is positioned to benefit from the surge in demand for electricity driven by AI, making it a unique investment opportunity [3][6] Company Profile - The company is described as a "toll booth" operator in the AI energy boom, collecting fees from energy exports and benefiting from the onshoring trend due to tariffs [5][6] - It possesses critical nuclear energy infrastructure assets, making it integral to America's future power strategy [7] - The company is noted for its capability to execute large-scale engineering, procurement, and construction projects across various energy sectors, including oil, gas, and renewables [7] Financial Position - The company is completely debt-free and has a significant cash reserve, amounting to nearly one-third of its market capitalization, which positions it favorably compared to other energy firms burdened with debt [8][10] - It also holds a substantial equity stake in another AI-related company, providing investors with indirect exposure to multiple growth engines in the AI sector [9] Market Sentiment - There is a growing interest from hedge funds in this company, which is considered undervalued and off the radar, trading at less than seven times earnings [10][11] - The company is recognized for delivering real cash flows and owning critical infrastructure, making it a compelling investment choice in the context of the AI and energy sectors [11][12]

Core Thesis - Tutor Perini Corporation (TPC) is viewed positively due to its turnaround from past challenges, with a strong backlog and project pipeline supporting its growth potential [2][4][5] Company Overview - TPC is a leading engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) firm based in Sylmar, California, formed from the merger of A.G. Tutor Company and Perini Corporation in 2008 [2] - The company offers comprehensive construction services, including general contracting, pre-construction planning, project management, and self-performing work across various disciplines [3] Financial Performance - As of Q2 2025, TPC reported a backlog of $21.1 billion, a 102% increase year-over-year, driven by $5.1 billion in contract awards [4] - The company raised its FY25 earnings guidance from $2.45–$2.80 per share to $3.65–$3.95 per share, reflecting a 45% increase [4] - TPC has a net cash position of $107 million and has reduced debt by 21% year-over-year [4] Market Position - TPC is significantly undervalued at a price-to-sales ratio of 0.68x compared to peer averages of 1.87x, indicating potential for growth [5] - The stock presents a compelling investment opportunity with potential upside toward $91 per share under conservative multiple assumptions [6]