Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In 2025, the company achieved adjusted net revenue of approximately $3.9 billion, a 29% increase compared to the previous year, and nearly 17% above the previous record in 2021 [6][19] - The fourth quarter of 2025 marked the strongest revenue quarter in the company's history, with nearly $1.3 billion in adjusted net revenue, reflecting a 32% increase year-over-year [6][19] - Adjusted earnings per share for the full year reached approximately $14.56, a 55% increase compared to 2024 [6][19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted advisory fees for the fourth quarter exceeded $1.1 billion, up 33% year-over-year, and for the full year, they totaled $3.3 billion, a 34% increase compared to 2024 [20] - The Private Capital Advisory (PCA) business delivered a record year, contributing significantly to the overall performance, with strong activity in GP-led continuation funds and LP transactions [15][50] - The Equities business also reported a record year, achieving nine consecutive quarters of year-over-year revenue growth [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global M&A activity rebounded significantly in 2025, with announced transactions totaling approximately $4.5 trillion, a 49% increase from the prior year [8] - Deal volumes in the second half of 2025 were approximately 45% higher than in the first half, indicating a shift in market sentiment [8] - The company ranked third for sell-side transactions in the U.S. based on dollar value, reflecting its strong market position [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on expanding its platform across regions, sectors, and products, including the acquisition of Robey Warshaw to enhance its EMEA strategy [11] - Continued investment in talent was emphasized, with the addition of 19 senior managing directors and a commitment to internal promotions [11] - The company aims to maintain a diversified revenue stream, with approximately 45% of revenues generated from non-M&A businesses [10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism for 2026, citing strong backlogs and a healthy environment for both M&A and restructuring activities [16][32] - The company remains mindful of geopolitical and macroeconomic risks but believes its strategic execution will continue to yield positive results [16] - Management highlighted the importance of maintaining strong client service while investing in growth opportunities [23] Other Important Information - The adjusted compensation ratio for the fourth quarter was 62%, down 320 basis points from the previous year, reflecting improved revenue performance [22] - The company returned $812 million to shareholders in 2025, including dividends and share repurchases, indicating a strong commitment to capital return [27][28] Q&A Session Summary Question: Outlook for large deals continuing or accelerating - Management believes the environment for large deals will remain healthy, supported by strong backlogs and favorable market conditions [32] Question: Can restructuring revenue grow in 2026? - Management is optimistic about the coexistence of strong restructuring and M&A activities, with high backlogs in both areas [34][35] Question: Growth expectations for non-M&A businesses - Management noted that non-M&A businesses, including Private Capital Advisory and Debt Advisory, are performing well and contributing significantly to overall growth [48][50] Question: Impact of AI on advisory businesses - Management does not foresee significant disruption from AI in the near term, citing a diversified business model that provides stability [57] Question: Expectations for ECM in 2026 - Management is optimistic about the Equity Capital Markets business, expecting continued growth and a healthy IPO environment [60][61] Question: Recruiting environment and challenges - Management acknowledged a competitive recruiting environment, indicating it may become more challenging and expensive to attract top talent [90][91]