Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company's second quarter sales reached EUR 3.1 billion, down 7% year-on-year but up 6% sequentially, primarily due to increased North American OCTG prices and stable volumes [4] - EBITDA for the quarter was up 5% sequentially to USD 733 million, with an EBITDA margin close to 24% [4] - Operating cash flow was USD 673 million, with capital expenditure of USD 135 million, resulting in a free cash flow of USD 538 million [5] - The net cash position amounted to EUR 3.7 billion at the end of the quarter after dividend payments and share buybacks [5] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Average selling prices in the Tubes operating segment decreased by 2% compared to the same quarter last year but increased by 6% sequentially [4] - The cost of sales rose by 5%, mainly due to product mix differences and higher tariff payments [5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. Section 232 tariff on steel imports increased from 25% to 50%, creating market uncertainty and affecting competitive dynamics [8] - The company expects that the current broad-based tariff approach will eventually shift to a more specific product-based approach, impacting prices once excess inventories are drawn down [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is well-positioned to serve the U.S. market with its strong domestic production base and efficient seamless pipe mill [9] - The company is focusing on expanding its service bases in emerging markets like Suriname and the Vaca Muerta shale play in Argentina, which are key growth areas [11][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that while drilling activity has slowed in several areas, sales rose sequentially, indicating a solid industrial and commercial position [6] - The company anticipates lower sales in the third quarter due to various factors, including lower invoicing in fracking operations and reduced shipments of line pipe [18][20] - Management expressed confidence in the long-term outlook for the offshore market, with a positive backlog building for 2026 [24][26] Other Important Information - The company has set up local service bases to support operations in the Guyana-Suriname Basin and is involved in developing pipeline infrastructure in Argentina [11][12] - The company is actively monitoring the M&A environment and is open to opportunities that align with its growth strategy [102] Q&A Session Summary Question: Outlook for 2025 considering tariff impacts and activity levels - Management expects lower sales in the third quarter due to various factors, including lower invoicing in fracking operations and reduced shipments of line pipe [18][20] Question: Insights on project pipeline for 2026 - Management indicated a positive outlook for the offshore market and is building an important backlog for 2026, with several projects expected to be sanctioned soon [24][26] Question: Margin expectations for Q3 and Q4 - Management expects margins to be slightly below the current quarter but within the range of 20% to 25% [37] Question: Sales outlook in Argentina - Management noted a reduction in rigs operating in Argentina and a cautious approach to investments in Vaca Muerta, impacting overall sales [39][42] Question: Impact of imports on market share - Management indicated that imports represent a significant share of demand in the U.S., and the increased tariffs are expected to impact prices and market dynamics [47] Question: Update on Pemex and its impact on operations - Management expressed optimism about Pemex's financial situation and its potential to increase operational activity, which could positively impact sales [72][73] Question: Exposure to gas markets in the U.S. - Management confirmed exposure to gas markets, particularly in Haynesville and Appalachia, with expectations for growth in these areas [80][81] Question: Current inventory levels and pricing dynamics - Management noted that inventory levels have increased due to elevated imports, which is putting pressure on prices [88]