NuScale(US:SMR)2025-07-28 01:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported positive operating cash flows of approximately US$90 million for the quarter, leading to a reduction in net debt to below US$100 million [9][10] - The consolidated average sales price decreased to US$127 per tonne from US$139 per tonne in the prior quarter, representing a realization of just under 70% of the average premium low vol index [11][12] - Overall liquidity remained strong at over US$400 million as of June 30, 2025 [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - South Walker Creek achieved the highest brown production since mid-2022, with over one million tons produced in June alone [4] - Portrail posted a 7% increase in raw production and a 14% increase in coal sales quarter on quarter [5] - Isaac Plains recovered strongly with raw volumes of 932,000 tons, a 60% increase from the prior quarter, although saleable production remains below the run rate to achieve full year guidance [7] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Metallurgical coal pricing conditions remained suppressed due to record levels of Chinese steel exports, which reached 116 million tons in 2025 compared to 111 million tons in 2024 [3] - FOB Australia prices remained range bound, with limited offers in the spot market, influenced by a glut of steel exports from China [13][14] - The Chinese domestic market was well supplied, impacting the pricing dynamics for Australian coal [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company has softened the pace on the Eagle Downs project due to current market conditions but continues base level studies to optimize capital and operational parameters [8] - The focus remains on cash preservation and maintaining production guidance despite adverse weather conditions [2][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the recovery story continuing into the second half of the year, with expectations of significantly higher volumes [10] - The company anticipates that ongoing supply constraints in Australia, combined with potential demand recovery in India post-monsoon, may support market conditions [15] Other Important Information - The company formally objected to the assessed stamp duty related to the Eagle Downs transaction, which was higher than expected [9][10] - The company is working on a budget for 2026, considering potential deferrals based on coal prices [46][48] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the outlook for the strip ratio going forward? - Management indicated a drop in the strip ratio due to a focus on catching up on raw volumes, with expectations of a slight reduction for the remainder of the year [17][18] Question: What is expected from the Eagle Downs project study next year? - The outcome will depend on various factors, including capital requirements and market conditions, with no commitment expected until mid-next year [20][21][22] Question: Can you clarify the net debt position and tax refund? - The net debt of US$99 million included a benefit from a tax refund submitted in late May, which was received in June [40][42] Question: What initiatives are being taken to manage costs and CapEx? - The company is on track with its guidance and is exploring further cost management initiatives while preparing for the budget for 2026 [46][48] Question: How is the company responding to changes in currency exchange rates? - The company believes it can achieve guidance even with current exchange rates, while also expecting benefits from cost reductions in the second half [52][54]