Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported record revenue, EBITDA, and earnings per share for both Q4 and the full year 2025, with revenue growth of 4% in Q4 and 5% for the full year [8][9] - Full-year EBITDA margin expanded by 160 basis points to 22.2%, with quarterly EBITDA margin at 23.2%, up 220 basis points year-over-year [9] - The company achieved a record quarterly EPS of $1.42, representing a 20% increase over the prior year [9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Measurement and Control Solutions (MCS) saw orders up 22% in Q4, driven by smart metering demand, with revenue up 10% [10] - Water Infrastructure orders were down 1% in Q4, with revenue flat due to strong demand in the U.S. offset by a nearly 30% decline in China [10] - Applied Water orders increased by 5%, with revenues up 3%, primarily driven by strength in U.S. commercial buildings [11] - Water Solutions and Services (WSS) reported a 7% increase in orders and 4% revenue growth, with an EBITDA margin of 23.9%, up 110 basis points year-over-year [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The backlog finished at $4.6 billion, with a book-to-bill ratio near 1 for both the quarter and the full year [8] - The company anticipates resilient demand in its largest end markets, despite short-term headwinds from strategic walkaways from lower-quality revenue [6][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is entering phase two of its transformation, focusing on strengthening its growth engine through sales force effectiveness, product management, and innovation [5][6] - Phase three will involve investing in long-term competitiveness and expanding into attractive future water markets [6] - The company is committed to simplifying its product offerings and enhancing customer focus, which may create short-term top-line headwinds but aims to drive higher-quality earnings [6][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in resilient demand and strong backlog conversion, expecting to build on commercial and operational momentum in 2026 [6][17] - The company is monitoring broader market conditions, including tariffs, but maintains a positive outlook for the year [17] - Management highlighted the importance of water as a foundational element for economic growth and the need for innovative solutions in the water sector [18][19] Other Important Information - The company plans to close the divestiture of its international metering business by the end of Q1 2026, with an EPS impact of $0.02-$0.03 [72] - The company is targeting around $1 billion a year for capital deployment towards M&A, focusing on small to medium bolt-on acquisitions [41] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide a two-year progress report on margin improvement and portfolio optimization? - Management acknowledged significant progress in operational model transformation and integration of Evoqua, with early delivery of synergies [26][28] Question: Why is the 80/20 walk-away revenue increasing into the second year? - Management explained that the 80/20 approach is becoming integral to operations, focusing on resource allocation and optimizing overhead to support long-term growth [32][33] Question: When will the 80/20 actions transition from a headwind to a tailwind? - Management indicated that 2026 is an inflection point, with expectations for improved sales force effectiveness and customer focus [40] Question: What is the outlook for the backlog and project hesitancy? - Management noted that the backlog is healthy but acknowledged project delays due to various factors, including inflation and project scope changes [50][68] Question: What are the expectations for smart meters and project delays? - Management remains confident in MCS achieving high single-digit growth long-term, attributing near-term challenges to project timing and backlog normalization [58] Question: What is the impact of divestitures on EPS? - The divestiture of the international metering business is expected to have a small EPS impact of $0.02-$0.03 for the year [72]

Second Quarter Fiscal 2026 Results Quarter Ended December 31, 2025 Supplementary Information to the February 5, 2026, Earnings Conference Call & Webcast Lasting relationships. Global success. Kimball Electronics Confidential Jana Croom CFO Safe Harbor Statement Certain statements contained within this supplementary information, including our fiscal year 2026 guidance, and any statements made during our earnings conference call today may be considered forward-looking under the Private Securities Litigation R ...

Tesla - Tesla reported earnings per share of $0.50 for the quarter, beating estimates but down 63% from the same period last year, marking the lowest fourth-quarter earnings since 2020 [1] - The company announced plans to more than double its annual capital spending to $20 billion by 2026, with significant investments in AI and robotics, including a $2 billion investment in Elon Musk's xAI [1][2] - Tesla will discontinue production of its S and X models to repurpose its Fremont plant for building Optimus robots, as these models account for less than 5% of overall vehicle sales [1][2] - The shift in Tesla's mission statement to focus on creating a world of abundance aligns with its push towards autonomy and robotics [1][2] Competition and Market Dynamics - Tesla's auto segment revenue declined by 11% in the fourth quarter due to increased competition in the EV market, particularly from GM and other automakers [2] - The discontinuation of the Model S and X was anticipated as these aging vehicles had not seen significant updates since their introduction [2] - Concerns were raised about Tesla's ability to deliver on its ambitious timelines for autonomous robots and robotaxis, with skepticism regarding the feasibility of mass production within the next two years [3][4][5] Meta and Microsoft - Meta's shares rose by approximately 9% after beating revenue expectations and announcing a significant increase in capital expenditures to $115-135 billion for 2026, nearly double its 2025 CapEx [8] - Microsoft shares fell by 12% following a slowdown in growth for its Azure Cloud computing unit, despite a nearly doubled future sales backlog driven by investments in OpenAI [8][10] - The contrasting market reactions to Meta and Microsoft's capital expenditure announcements highlight investor sentiment towards AI investments and the perceived return on investment [8][10] Investment Sentiment - Investors are increasingly scrutinizing capital expenditures, questioning the return on investment, especially in light of high spending figures exceeding $100 billion annually [10] - Meta's aggressive spending is seen as a bet on future ad revenue growth, while Microsoft faces concerns over its reliance on OpenAI for a significant portion of its backlog [10][11] - The evolving narrative around AI investments suggests that companies may experience fluctuating investor confidence based on their capital allocation strategies and growth prospects [11]

Group 1: ReNew Power - ReNew Power briefed the Karnataka delegation on its proposed plans for solar, wind, and hybrid power projects [1][6] - The discussions highlighted opportunities in renewable energy generation and energy storage within Karnataka's power grid infrastructure [1][6] Group 2: Xylem Inc - Xylem Inc expressed interest in establishing a wastewater treatment plant in Karnataka's industrial areas [1][6] - The company plans to conduct a detailed study to assess efficient water supply mechanisms and technology deployment [1][6] - Based on the study, a system could be developed to supply water to industries at affordable rates [1][6] Group 3: Octopus Energy - Octopus Energy engaged in discussions regarding Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology, which could provide significant cost benefits to consumers [2][6] - The company specializes in smart meters, digital infrastructure, scientific tariff setting, and grid modernization [2][6] Group 4: Government Engagement - Karnataka's Minister for Large and Medium Industries M B Patil facilitated discussions with the companies and assured support for further talks with BESCOM [5][6]

Core Insights - Hubbell Incorporated (HUBB) is a leading provider of electrical and utility solutions with a market capitalization of approximately $25 billion, offering a diverse range of products including wiring devices, lighting fixtures, and smart meters [1] Financial Performance - Hubbell is expected to report a diluted EPS of $4.69 for fiscal Q4 2025, representing a 14.4% increase from $4.10 in the same quarter last year, with a strong track record of exceeding EPS estimates in three of the last four quarters [2] - For the full fiscal year 2025, analysts project a diluted EPS of $18.16, indicating a year-over-year growth of 9.6%, with further growth anticipated in fiscal 2026 to an EPS of $19.71, an 8.5% increase from the previous year [3] Share Price and Market Performance - Over the past 52 weeks, Hubbell's shares have increased by 8.2% and nearly 6% year-to-date, contrasting with the S&P 500 Index's gains of 17.7% and 1.8% respectively, and the State Street Industrial Select Sector SPDR ETF's rise of 21.9% over the same period [4] Recent Earnings and Market Reaction - Following the fiscal Q3 2025 results, Hubbell's shares rose approximately 4.9%, with revenue increasing by 4.1% year-over-year to $1.50 billion, although it fell short of the expected $1.53 billion; adjusted EPS rose 12.1% to $5.17, surpassing analyst estimates of $4.98 [5] - Investors showed a preference for profitability despite the revenue miss, driven by strong organic growth in Electrical Solutions and Grid Infrastructure, which helped maintain margins despite a decline in Grid Automation [6] Guidance and Outlook - Management has raised the full-year adjusted EPS guidance to a range of $18.10–$18.30 and reaffirmed expectations for total sales growth and organic net sales growth of 3%–4% for the full year 2025, leading to a further 3.8% increase in stock price the following day [7]

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the importance of the price-to-book (P/B) ratio as a valuation tool for identifying undervalued stocks with high growth potential, alongside the more commonly used price-to-earnings (P/E) and price-to-sales (P/S) ratios [1][5]. Understanding P/B Ratio - The P/B ratio is calculated by dividing the market capitalization by the book value of equity, providing insight into whether a stock is under- or overvalued [1][5]. - A P/B ratio of less than one indicates that a stock is trading below its book value, suggesting it may be a good buy, while a ratio above one may indicate overvaluation [5][6]. - The P/B ratio is particularly relevant for industries with tangible assets, such as finance and manufacturing, but may be misleading for companies with high R&D expenses or significant debt [8][9]. Screening Parameters for Low P/B Stocks - The article identifies five stocks with low P/B ratios that also exhibit strong growth prospects: StoneCo, PagSeguro Digital, General Motors, Itron, and Newmont [11]. - These stocks are characterized by a strong Value Score, favorable Zacks Rank, and solid long-term earnings per share (EPS) growth outlook [11][16][17][18][19][21]. - The screening criteria include a P/B ratio below the industry median, a P/S ratio below the industry median, a P/E ratio using forward estimates below the industry median, and a PEG ratio of less than one [12][13][14]. Company Profiles - **StoneCo (STNE)**: A financial technology provider based in Brazil, with a projected 3-5 year EPS growth rate of 30.3% and a Zacks Rank of 1 [16]. - **PagSeguro Digital (PAGS)**: Offers digital payment solutions primarily in Brazil, with a projected EPS growth rate of 14.2% and a Zacks Rank of 2 [17]. - **General Motors (GM)**: One of the largest automakers globally, with a projected EPS growth rate of 7.0% and a Zacks Rank of 1 [18]. - **Itron (ITRI)**: A technology and services company focused on utility and municipal sectors, with a projected EPS growth rate of 30.0% and a Zacks Rank of 2 [19]. - **Newmont (NEM)**: A leading gold producer with significant reserves and a projected EPS growth rate of 26.05%, holding a Zacks Rank of 1 [21].

Core Insights - Zacks Premium provides tools for investors to enhance their stock market engagement and confidence [1] - The Zacks Style Scores offer a systematic approach to evaluate stocks based on value, growth, and momentum [3][4][5][6][7] Zacks Style Scores - The Style Scores categorize stocks into four types: Value Score, Growth Score, Momentum Score, and VGM Score, each focusing on different investment strategies [4][5][6][7] - Value Score identifies undervalued stocks using financial ratios like P/E and Price/Sales [4] - Growth Score assesses stocks based on projected earnings and sales growth [5] - Momentum Score evaluates stocks based on price trends and earnings estimate changes [6] - VGM Score combines all three styles to highlight stocks with the best overall potential [7] Zacks Rank - The Zacks Rank is a proprietary model that uses earnings estimate revisions to guide investment decisions [8] - Stocks rated 1 (Strong Buy) have historically outperformed the S&P 500, achieving an average annual return of +23.81% since 1988 [8] - A large number of stocks can hold high Zacks Ranks, making it essential to use Style Scores for better selection [9] Stock Example: Itron Inc (ITRI) - Itron Inc is a technology and services company specializing in smart meters and communication systems for utilities [12] - ITRI holds a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy) and has a VGM Score of A, indicating strong potential [12] - The stock has a Momentum Style Score of B, with a recent price increase of 4.9% over the past month [13] - Analysts have revised ITRI's earnings estimate upwards, with the Zacks Consensus Estimate rising to $6.07 per share [13] - ITRI has an average earnings surprise of +32.5%, making it a strong candidate for investors [13]

Core Insights - Evergy, Inc. (EVRG) is focusing on expanding its operations in the transmission market and aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045 through planned investments and its Integrated Resource Plan [1][4]. Group 1: Investment Plans and Infrastructure - Evergy plans to invest $2.34 billion in infrastructure in 2024 to modernize the grid and replace aging equipment, with a target of nearly $17.5 billion in capital investments from 2025 to 2029, including approximately $6.17 billion for renewable generation [3][8]. - The company is actively developing renewable projects with a total capacity of 800 megawatts (MW), with 500 MW included in its 2-3% demand forecast through 2029 [4]. Group 2: Environmental Goals - Evergy's Integrated Resource Plan aims for net-zero emissions by 2045, with an interim goal of a 70% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions by 2030 [4][8]. Group 3: Revenue Generation - Evergy's transmission and distribution operations are advantageous for revenue generation, allowing efficient electricity delivery from power plants to consumers [2][8]. Group 4: Challenges and Risks - The company faces potential delays in capital projects due to permit issues, equipment availability, or increased costs, which could negatively impact profitability [5]. - Seasonal electricity sales and changing weather conditions can significantly affect overall performance, with mild winters and summers potentially reducing electricity demand [5].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net income increased by 77% year on year, reaching BRL 2.1 billion, driven by financial asset bifurcation, lower amortization from the extended concession agreement, and interest and monetary correction from the reversal of legal accruals [5][6] - EBITDA growth was supported by price increases and disciplined cost control, with a year-on-year contribution of approximately BRL 200 million from changes in legal claims management [4][6] - CapEx totaled BRL 3.6 billion in Q2 2025, a 178% increase year on year, indicating a strong commitment to infrastructure investment [5][9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Volume growth contributed 3.5%, with 1.5% from new connections for water and sewage, and a 2% increase in consumption despite lower temperatures [2][3] - Average prices rose by 5% due to tariff adjustments, although a decline was noted in June due to a 1% tariff decrease [2][3] - The removal of discounts for large clients resulted in an average price increase of 47% compared to Q4 2024 [3] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a significant reduction in complaints about water shortages by 18% and water leaks by 23% quarter over quarter [10] - The introduction of smart metering technology is expected to enhance operational efficiency and customer service [11][60] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company’s strategy focuses on three priorities: meeting new concession agreement challenges, raising operating standards, and boosting financial efficiency [8][9] - The CapEx execution is accelerating, with a backlog of BRL 35 billion across 542 projects scheduled for completion by 2029 [9] - The company aims to enhance customer experience through technology-driven initiatives, including a new customer service channel via WhatsApp [12][13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the company’s transformation and progress towards universalization targets, with over 1.3 million people gaining access to water and 1.4 million to sewage treatment [14][82] - The company is focused on balancing efficiency gains with annual targets amidst a heated demand for services in São Paulo [77][78] Other Important Information - The company is ahead of schedule on its 2425 U factor targets, with water units target already met and significant progress in sewage collection and treatment [5][6] - The leverage remains under control, with net debt to adjusted EBITDA at 1.9 times, reflecting a strong balance sheet [6] Q&A Session Summary Question: Details on OpEx performance and future expectations - Management highlighted that the efficiency program is crucial for sourcing funds for investments, with personnel expenses reflecting voluntary dismissal plans [20][21] - The impact of social tariff evolution was discussed, with BRL 170 million invested in discounts for vulnerable populations [26][27] Question: Universalization CapEx and project completion - Management confirmed that the company is on track to meet sewage connection targets, with 15 projects in the northern metropolitan region of São Paulo expected to deliver 500,000 connections by year-end [33][34] Question: General and administrative expenses - The negative BRL 50 million expense was attributed to a reversal of provisions, with expectations for future levels discussed [44][45] Question: Increase in delinquency rates - The increase was attributed to prior settlements with delinquent customers and the removal of discounts, with expectations for a change in delinquency profile in Q3 [54][55] Question: Smart metering agreement details - The company has partnered with Vivo for the rollout of smart meters, which will enhance operational efficiency and customer service [58][60] Question: Tariff review process and public disclosure - Management clarified the timeline for the tariff review process and the importance of public hearings for stakeholder input [62][66]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net income increased by 77% year on year, reaching BRL 2.1 billion, driven by financial asset bifurcation, lower amortization from the extended concession agreement, and interest and monetary corrections from legal accrual reversals [4] - EBITDA growth was supported by price increases and disciplined cost control, with a significant contribution from legal claims management strategies [3][4] - Average prices rose by 5% due to tariff adjustments, while volume growth contributed 3.5% to revenue [1][2] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company saw a 1.5% increase in new connections for water and sewage, contributing to overall volume growth [1] - The removal of discounts for large clients resulted in an average price increase of 47% compared to Q4 2024 [2] - Personnel expenses fell by 10.3% year on year, despite a 5.5% increase from collective bargaining, largely due to a reduction in headcount [3] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a 2% increase in consumption during the quarter, despite slightly lower temperatures in São Paulo compared to the previous year [1] - The approval of an 18-month extension for subsidies to vulnerable clients is expected to impact future revenue dynamics [2] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on three strategic priorities: regulatory compliance, improving operational standards, and enhancing financial efficiency [9] - CapEx totaled BRL 3.6 billion in Q2 2025, a 178% increase year on year, with a total backlog of BRL 35 billion across 542 projects scheduled for completion by 2029 [4][10] - The company aims to increase treatment capacity by 68% across its top sewage treatment plants [5] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in meeting universalization targets and improving service quality while balancing efficiency gains with operational demands [78][83] - The company anticipates continued improvements in operational metrics, including reductions in complaints and water leaks [11] - Management highlighted the importance of ongoing investments and strategic initiatives to enhance customer service and operational efficiency [9][12] Other Important Information - The company has submitted data for the 2024 Regulatory Asset Base (RAB) and expects feedback by September, with final tariff adjustments to be effective January 1, 2026 [6] - The company has implemented a smart metering initiative in partnership with Vivo, aiming to replace 4.4 million meters by 2029 [59] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide details on OpEx performance this quarter? - Management noted significant reductions in all cost lines, attributing this to efficiency programs and voluntary dismissal plans [20][21] Question: What is the impact of the social tariff evolution? - Management explained that the company invested BRL 170 million in discounts for vulnerable populations, which will be compensated in future tariff cycles [26][27] Question: Can you clarify the CapEx for universalization? - Management confirmed that while the target of 1 million new sewage connections is challenging, they are on track to meet it by the end of the year [30][34] Question: What are the reasons for the increase in delinquency rates? - Management attributed the increase to the removal of discounts and tariff increases, which affected customer billing [54] Question: Can you elaborate on the smart metering agreement? - Management detailed a partnership with Vivo for smart meter rollout, emphasizing the importance of a single point of contact for accountability [59] Question: What is the timeline for the tariff review process? - Management clarified that the final tariff adjustment will be disclosed in December, with a public hearing expected regarding the new methodology [62][68]