Nasdaq (NasdaqGS:NDAQ) 2025 Conference December 02, 2025 12:55 PM ET Company ParticipantsSarah Youngwood - CFOConference Call ParticipantsAlexander Kramm - Senior Research AnalystAlexander KrammOnce again, Alex Kramm, Senior Research Analyst at UBS, covering exchanges and business services. And since I just said exchanges, we actually are delighted to have an exchange here today, although that may be a misnomer, but we'll get to that in a minute. But Sarah Youngwood, CFO of Nasdaq here, for the first time a ...

Summary of Nasdaq Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: Nasdaq (NasdaqGS:NDAQ) - **Date**: November 19, 2025 - **Speaker**: Sarah, CFO of Nasdaq Key Industry Insights Generative AI (Gen AI) Impact - Nasdaq has been preparing for Gen AI for over a decade, having invested in cloud and AI technologies since 2014 and 2015 respectively [6][10] - The company emphasizes the importance of contributory data, which is unique and not easily replicable, as a competitive advantage for Gen AI applications [6][7] - Examples of contributory data include: - **Verafin**: Over $10 trillion in total assets from 2,700 banks, developed over 15 years [7] - **eVestment**: Utilized by allocators for around 89,000 strategies [7] - Gen AI applications are expected to enhance efficiency in compliance and fraud detection for banks, potentially reducing the need for human intervention in 80% of sanctions processes [8][9] Financial Performance and Growth - Nasdaq has seen a significant increase in enterprise signings for Verafin, with three times the amount of signings in the current year compared to previous periods [13] - The average contract value (ACV) of signings has doubled, indicating strong demand [13] - The cross-sell pipeline remains steady at approximately 15%, with ongoing efforts to expand into new markets, including Europe [13][14] Capital Market Technology - Nasdaq reported a 13% growth in capital market technology in Q3, driven by advancements in Gen AI across various business segments [15] - The company operates about 20 exchanges across the Nordics and the U.S., benefiting from new entrants in the digital space [19] Regulatory Technology (Reg Tech) - Nasdaq anticipates the implementation of smart regulation, which will provide clarity for clients and enhance the adoption of regulatory solutions [22][23] - The company has a strong international presence with coverage in 55 countries and 110 regulators, making it difficult for competitors to replicate [23] Data Business - Nasdaq's data business is divided into regulated data and proprietary data, with significant growth in both areas [36][37] - The company is expanding its data offerings to include local stocks from the Nordics and alpha-generating datasets for hedge funds [37][38] Tokenized Securities - Nasdaq has proposed a framework for tokenized securities that aims to enhance liquidity while maintaining investor protections [39][40] - The proposal allows for settlement options in both traditional and tokenized forms, potentially improving efficiency in capital markets [40] Cost Synergies and Expense Management - Nasdaq has exceeded its synergy guidance, achieving approximately $150 million in cost efficiencies year-to-date [41] - The company is focused on maintaining a balance between expense growth and revenue growth, with a specific emphasis on leveraging Gen AI for operational efficiencies [42] Capital Allocation Strategy - Nasdaq is prioritizing organic growth and maintaining a progressive dividend policy while considering share repurchases and debt management [45][46] - The company remains open to potential bolt-on acquisitions but emphasizes organic investments as the primary focus [46] Additional Insights - Nasdaq's brand recognition as a top global brand enhances its listings franchise, contributing to its market position [28][29] - The index business has grown significantly, with an increase in assets under management (AUM) from $100 billion in 2017 to $800 billion [30][32] This summary encapsulates the key points discussed during the Nasdaq conference call, highlighting the company's strategic focus on technology, growth, and market positioning.

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Nasdaq reported net revenue of $1.3 billion, an 11% year-over-year increase, with operating income rising 16% to $732 million and diluted EPS growing 19% [6][24] - Annualized recurring revenue (ARR) grew 9% to $3 billion, marking a significant milestone [6][25] - Operating expenses were $583 million, up 5% year-over-year, leading to an operating margin of 56% and EBITDA margin of 58%, both up 2 percentage points from the previous year [24][33] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Capital Access Platforms generated revenue of $546 million, up 8%, with ARR growth of 6% [25][31] - Financial Technology delivered revenue of $457 million, up 13%, with ARR growth of 12% [28][29] - Market Services achieved net revenue of $303 million, reflecting a 13% growth driven by elevated market volumes [32] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Nasdaq welcomed operating companies that raised $6 billion in proceeds during the quarter, with over $14 billion raised year-to-date [10] - The index franchise recorded $91 billion in net inflows over the last 12 months, including $17 billion in the third quarter [12][26] - Nasdaq-listed securities represented 53% of total industry volume, up from 49% a year ago, indicating strong market presence [18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Nasdaq is focused on integrating technology and AI into its solutions, enhancing client engagement and operational efficiency [9][20] - The company aims to leverage its existing trading infrastructure to enable tokenized securities trading, reflecting a commitment to innovation in the digital asset space [20][40] - Nasdaq's strategic priorities include integrating, innovating, and accelerating growth across its diversified business segments [19][23] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The U.S. economy remains resilient, with mixed economic signals, but overall consumer spending has picked up [8] - Nasdaq anticipates a meaningful pickup in IPO activity in the coming quarters, supported by a robust IPO pipeline [10][11] - Management expressed confidence in achieving strategic objectives and delivering sustainable growth despite a dynamic operating environment [36] Other Important Information - Nasdaq's gross leverage ratio improved to 3.1 times, with a commitment to deleveraging and maintaining strong cash flow [34][36] - The company has surpassed its net expense efficiency target, achieving over $150 million in cost reductions [33] Q&A Session Summary Question: Digital assets and growth opportunities - Management highlighted Nasdaq's involvement in the digital assets ecosystem, emphasizing the relevance of financial technology solutions as institutional interest in digital assets grows [39][40] Question: Tokenization initiative details - The tokenization proposal aims to allow investors to settle shares in a tokenized form, with ongoing collaboration with DTCC to develop settlement paths [43][45] Question: Operating expenses and future spending - Management indicated that ongoing investments are embedded in the guidance for the year, with a consistent trajectory expected [52][53] Question: Financial crime management business performance - Management acknowledged variability in ARR growth due to implementation phases for new enterprise clients but expressed confidence in future growth [58][59] Question: Capital markets technology momentum - Strong demand for connectivity services and robust client engagement were noted as key drivers of growth in capital markets technology [64] Question: AI's impact on revenue and expenses - Management sees AI as an opportunity to drive efficiency and enhance client experiences, with a focus on product development and automation [66][70] Question: BioCatch partnership and Verafin's platform potential - Management views Verafin as a platform with the ability to integrate modern APIs, enhancing its capabilities in the anti-financial crime space [79]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Nasdaq reported net revenue of $1.3 billion, an 11% year-over-year increase, with operating income rising 16% to $732 million and diluted EPS growing by 19% [6][24][36] - Annualized recurring revenue (ARR) grew 9% to $3 billion, marking a significant milestone [6][25] - Operating expenses were $583 million, up 5% year-over-year, leading to an operating margin of 56% and EBITDA margin of 58%, both up 2 percentage points from the previous year [24][33] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Capital Access Platforms generated revenue of $546 million, up 8%, with ARR growth of 6% [25][31] - Financial Technology delivered revenue of $457 million, up 13%, with ARR growth of 12% [28][29] - Market Services achieved net revenue of $303 million, reflecting a 13% growth driven by elevated market volumes [32] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Nasdaq welcomed operating companies that raised $6 billion in proceeds during the quarter, with over $14 billion raised year-to-date [10] - The index franchise recorded $91 billion in net inflows over the last 12 months, with $17 billion in the third quarter [12][26] - Nasdaq-listed securities represented 53% of total industry volume, up from 49% a year ago, indicating strong market presence [18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Nasdaq is focused on integrating technology and AI into its solutions, enhancing its competitive position and providing value to clients [9][20] - The company aims to leverage its existing trading infrastructure to enable tokenized securities trading, reflecting a commitment to innovation in the digital asset space [20][40] - Nasdaq's strategic priorities include Integrate, Innovate, and Accelerate, with a focus on cross-selling and enhancing client engagement [19][23] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The U.S. economy remains resilient, with mixed economic signals, but overall consumer spending has picked up [8] - Nasdaq anticipates a meaningful pickup in IPO activity in the coming quarters, supported by a robust IPO pipeline [10][11] - Management expressed confidence in achieving strategic objectives and delivering sustainable growth despite a dynamic operating environment [36] Other Important Information - Nasdaq's gross leverage ratio improved to 3.1x, with a commitment to deleveraging and maintaining strong cash flow [34][36] - The company completed the sale of Nasdaq Solovis, which was deemed not a strategic fit, allowing for a more focused portfolio [15] Q&A Session Summary Question: Digital assets and growth opportunities - Management highlighted Nasdaq's long-standing involvement in the digital assets ecosystem and the relevance of its financial technology solutions as institutional interest in digital assets grows [39][40] Question: Tokenization proposal details - The tokenization initiative aims to allow investors to settle orders in a tokenized form, with collaboration with DTCC for settlement paths [44][46] Question: Operating expenses and 2026 outlook - Management indicated a consistent trajectory in operating expenses, aligned with strong revenue growth and ongoing investments in technology [52][53] Question: Financial crime management business performance - Management acknowledged variability in ARR growth due to implementation phases for new enterprise clients but expressed confidence in future growth [58][60] Question: Capital markets technology momentum - Strong demand for connectivity services and data center growth were noted as key drivers for the Capital Markets Technology business [62][64] Question: AI's impact on revenue synergy targets - Management confirmed that AI solutions are expected to accelerate cross-sell efforts and enhance client workflows, supporting revenue synergy targets [75][76] Question: BioCatch partnership implications - The partnership with BioCatch is seen as a strategic move to enhance Verafin's platform capabilities and expand its market reach [79]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Nasdaq reported net revenue of $1.3 billion, an 11% year-over-year increase, with operating income rising 16% to $732 million and diluted EPS growing 19% to $0.88 [4][22][34] - Annualized recurring revenue (ARR) grew 9% to $3 billion, marking a significant milestone for the company [4][23] - Operating expenses were $583 million, up 5% year-over-year, leading to an operating margin of 56% and EBITDA margin of 58%, both up 2 percentage points from the previous year [22][32] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Capital Access Platforms generated revenue of $546 million, up 8%, with ARR growth of 6% [22][24] - Financial Technology revenue reached $457 million, up 13%, with ARR growth of 12% [22][26] - Market Services net revenue was $303 million, reflecting a 13% growth driven by elevated market volumes [30] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Nasdaq welcomed operating companies that raised $6 billion in proceeds during the quarter, with over $14 billion raised year-to-date [7] - The index franchise achieved record net inflows of $91 billion over the last 12 months, including $17 billion in the third quarter [9][24] - Nasdaq-listed securities represented 53% of total industry volume, up from 49% a year ago, indicating strong market presence [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Nasdaq is focused on integrating technology and data to enhance client services, particularly through AI-enabled solutions [5][6] - The company aims to deepen its competitive advantage by driving innovation across the financial industry [5][6] - Nasdaq's strategic priorities include integrating, innovating, and accelerating growth, with a focus on cross-selling and expanding its technology platform [15][20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The U.S. economy remains resilient, with mixed economic signals, but overall consumer spending has picked up [5] - Nasdaq anticipates a meaningful pickup in IPO activity in the coming quarters, supported by a robust IPO pipeline [7][8] - Management expressed confidence in achieving strategic objectives and delivering sustainable growth despite a dynamic operating environment [34] Other Important Information - Nasdaq completed the sale of Nasdaq Solovis to Insight Partners, which was deemed not a strategic fit within its portfolio [11] - The company has surpassed its net expense efficiency target, achieving over $150 million in cost reductions [32] - Nasdaq's senior unsecured debt rating was upgraded from BBB to BBB+ by S&P, reflecting progress in deleveraging [15] Q&A Session Summary Question: Digital assets and growth opportunities - Management highlighted Nasdaq's long-standing involvement in the digital assets ecosystem and the relevance of its financial technology solutions as institutional interest in digital assets grows [36] Question: Tokenization proposal details - The tokenization initiative involves allowing investors to flag orders for tokenized securities, with two settlement paths being developed in collaboration with DTCC [39][40] Question: 2026 outlook and operating expenses - Management indicated a consistent trajectory in revenue growth, with ongoing investments embedded in the guidance for the full year [48][49] Question: Financial crime management business performance - The anti-financial crime business is experiencing variability in ARR growth due to the implementation of solutions for new enterprise clients [51][53] Question: Capital markets technology momentum - Strong demand for connectivity services and robust client engagement are driving growth in the Capital Markets Technology segment [55][59] Question: AI's impact on revenue and expenses - Management views AI as an opportunity to drive efficiency and enhance client experiences, with significant potential for revenue growth [60][62]

Core Insights - Nasdaq, Inc. reported strong financial results for Q3 2025, with net revenue reaching $1.3 billion, a 15% increase year-over-year, and 11% organic growth [2][8][11] - Solutions revenue surpassed $1 billion for the first time, contributing to an annual recurring revenue (ARR) of $3 billion, reflecting a 10% increase year-over-year [5][8] - The company achieved significant milestones in operational efficiency and shareholder returns, including $155 million returned through dividends and $115 million in stock repurchases [6][8] Financial Performance - Total net revenue for Q3 2025 was $1,315 million, up 15% from Q3 2024, with organic growth of 11% [2][11] - Solutions revenue was $1,003 million, a 15% increase year-over-year, with organic growth of 10% [2][11] - Market Services net revenue reached $303 million, reflecting a 14% increase year-over-year, or 13% on an organic basis [2][11] - GAAP diluted EPS grew by 38% to $0.73, while non-GAAP diluted EPS increased by 19% to $0.88 [2][11] Strategic Developments - Nasdaq extended its leadership in listings, welcoming the largest European IPO since 2022, and raised over $14 billion year-to-date in the U.S. listings franchise [15] - The company launched 30 new Index products in Q3, including 18 international products, contributing to record levels of assets under management (AUM) exceeding $800 billion [13][15] - Nasdaq's strategic priorities focus on integrating, innovating, and accelerating growth, with over $150 million in cost reductions achieved [15] Business Segments - Financial Technology revenue increased by 23% to $457 million, with a 12% increase in annualized SaaS revenue, representing 38% of ARR [8][12] - Capital Access Platforms revenue was $546 million, up 9% year-over-year, driven by strong demand in data and listing services [11][29] - Market Services revenues were $946 million, with transaction-based expenses impacting net revenue [29] Expense Management - GAAP operating expenses for Q3 2025 were $729 million, a 4% increase year-over-year, primarily due to higher compensation and technology investments [11][12] - Non-GAAP operating expenses were $583 million, reflecting a 5% organic increase driven by investments in technology and personnel [11][12] - The company updated its 2025 non-GAAP operating expense guidance to a range of $2,305 million to $2,335 million [9]

Financial Performance - Nasdaq's net revenue for 2Q25 was $1306 million, a 13% increase year-over-year[17] - Solutions revenue reached $991 million, up 10% year-over-year[17] - Non-GAAP operating income was $721 million, a 16% increase year-over-year[17] - Non-GAAP diluted EPS increased by 24% year-over-year to $085[17] - Annualized SaaS revenues grew by 13% year-over-year to $1098 million[17] - Annualized Recurring Revenue (ARR) increased by 10% year-over-year to $2931 million[17] Segment Highlights - Index ETP AUM reached a record level of $745 billion at quarter-end, bolstered by $88 billion in net inflows over the trailing twelve months[13] - Capital Access Platforms revenue grew organically by 9% year-over-year[38] - Financial Technology revenue grew organically by 10% year-over-year[38] - Market Services net revenue increased by 21% year-over-year to $306 million[70]

Core Insights - Nasdaq, Inc. reported strong financial results for the second quarter of 2025, with net revenue reaching $1,306 million, reflecting a 13% increase year-over-year [7][8]. - The company demonstrated resilience and broad-based growth across its business segments, particularly in Market Services and Financial Technology [5][6]. Financial Performance - Solutions revenue was $991 million, up 10% year-over-year [11]. - Market Services net revenue increased by 22% to $306 million [11]. - Annualized Recurring Revenue (ARR) reached $2,931 million, a 10% increase compared to the same quarter last year [8]. - GAAP diluted earnings per share (EPS) grew by 103% to $0.78, while non-GAAP diluted EPS increased by 24% to $0.85 [8][11]. Strategic Initiatives - The company is focused on enhancing value for clients and shareholders through innovation and deepening client relationships via its One Nasdaq approach [6]. - Nasdaq executed well on its capital allocation priorities, repaying $400 million of senior unsecured notes and returning $155 million to shareholders through dividends and $100 million through stock repurchases [7][8]. Market Trends and Client Demand - Financial Technology segment achieved solid revenue growth, driven by robust client demand, with 57 new clients and 130 upsells in the second quarter [12]. - Index revenue grew by 17%, with $20 billion in net inflows during the quarter, bringing total assets under management to a record $745 billion [15]. Operational Efficiency - The company maintained its operating expenses at $738 million, reflecting a strategic focus on efficiency despite increased investments in technology and personnel [11]. - Nasdaq is on track to achieve its $140 million expanded net expense efficiency program by year-end, having actioned approximately $130 million as of the end of the second quarter [15].

Core Viewpoint - Nasdaq and the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) are enhancing their technology partnership by upgrading PSE's trading infrastructure to Nasdaq's advanced platform, Nasdaq Eqlipse Trading, which aims to improve liquidity and resilience in the Philippine marketplace [1][5]. Group 1: Technology Partnership - The upgrade to Nasdaq Eqlipse Trading represents a significant investment by Nasdaq to modernize and strengthen its platform capabilities, allowing for enhanced functionality such as pre-trade risk management and advanced options pricing [2][4]. - PSE's decision to renew its partnership with Nasdaq is driven by the need for a reliable trading system that meets current and future requirements, emphasizing the importance of technology in PSE's strategic agenda [3][5]. Group 2: Market Impact - The Nasdaq Eqlipse platform is part of a broader initiative to develop a fully interoperable suite of solutions across trading, clearing, and data intelligence, marking a major milestone in Nasdaq's investment cycle [4]. - Nasdaq's technology is utilized by 97% of globally significant banks and half of the world's top 25 stock exchanges, indicating its critical role in enhancing market infrastructure and operational efficiency [6]. Group 3: Economic Context - The partnership aligns with the rapid economic growth of the Philippines, positioning Nasdaq to support local and global banks in navigating challenges and innovating in a digital and AI-driven environment [6]. - Nasdaq's presence in the Philippines is part of its strategy to drive modernization in the financial services industry, contributing to regulatory compliance and simplifying capital market operations [5][6].

Core Insights - Nasdaq, Inc. reported strong financial results for Q1 2025, highlighting resilience and growth across all divisions despite a rapidly changing environment [2][3][5] Financial Performance - Net revenue for Q1 2025 was $1,237 million, an increase of 11% year-over-year, with adjusted net revenue growth of 12.5% [5][6] - Solutions revenue reached $947 million, up 9% year-over-year, and 11% on an adjusted basis, driven by strong growth in Index and Financial Technology [5][6] - Market Services net revenue was $281 million, reflecting a 19% increase compared to the previous year [10] - Non-GAAP operating income was $682 million, a 15% increase year-over-year, with a non-GAAP operating margin of 55% [40] - GAAP diluted earnings per share (EPS) grew 69% to $0.68, while non-GAAP diluted EPS increased 24% to $0.79 [5][29] Annualized Recurring Revenue (ARR) - ARR for Q1 2025 was $2,831 million, an 8% increase year-over-year, with organic growth of 9% [5][6] - Financial Technology ARR grew 12% on an organic basis, indicating strong client engagement and product adoption [11] Strategic Initiatives - Nasdaq is focused on capital allocation strategies, including investing in organic growth, reducing debt, and share repurchases, returning $138 million to shareholders through dividends and $115 million through stock repurchases in Q1 2025 [3][10] - The company aims to enhance its market access with plans for 24/5 trading by 2026, pending regulatory approval [14] - Nasdaq's partnership with Amazon Web Services aims to provide new cloud-based solutions, enhancing its Financial Technology and Market Services divisions [14] Market Position and Client Engagement - Nasdaq maintained its leadership in listings, welcoming 45 operating company listings that raised nearly $5 billion in proceeds during the quarter [14] - The company achieved record cash equities and derivatives volumes in the U.S., with significant market share growth [14] - Nasdaq Verafin's Co-Pilot tool usage grew by 20% sequentially, demonstrating the value of its innovative solutions [14]