
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total volumes decreased by 6.1% and revenue decreased by 5.6% in the first half of 2025, while revenue per hectoliter increased by 0.5% [8][9] - Normalized EBITDA decreased by 8% and normalized EBITDA margin contracted by 82 basis points [8][9] - In the second quarter, total volumes and revenue decreased by 6.2% and 3.9% respectively [8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In China, volumes decreased by 7.4% in the second quarter, with revenue decreasing by 6.4% and revenue per hectoliter increasing by 1.1% [11] - In South Korea, volumes were impacted by shipment phasing, but market share continued to grow in both on-premise and in-home channels [6][14] - In India, the Budweiser brand grew ahead of the industry, contributing to double-digit revenue growth and significant EBITDA margin improvement [14][78] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In APAC West, volumes and revenue decreased by 6.9% and 7.1% respectively, with normalized EBITDA decreasing by 8.8% [10] - The in-home channel's contribution to volumes and revenue increased, with premium and super premium portfolio weights exceeding those in the restaurant channel [12][42] - The Indian market continues to show strong growth momentum, with premiumization driving performance [78] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on investing in mega brands and expanding the in-home channel to navigate current challenges and pursue long-term growth [5][6] - A channel expansion strategy is being implemented to enhance premiumization in the in-home channel [12] - The company is committed to maintaining a sound balance sheet while pursuing disciplined financial practices and capital allocation priorities [16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted ongoing challenges in China, particularly in the restaurant channel, but remains focused on enhancing execution and expanding distribution [21][60] - The company expects volume headwinds to continue into the third quarter, with potential for improvement in the fourth quarter due to easier comparisons [60] - Management emphasized the importance of premiumization and innovation in driving future growth [78][81] Other Important Information - The company reported a net cash position of $2.4 billion as of June 30, 2025 [16] - An internal restructuring led to a $53 million non-underlying income tax charge, which is not expected to impact future financials significantly [87][88] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact of anti-extravagance on the catering business in China - Management acknowledged a slowdown in the Chinese restaurant channel and indicated that the impact would continue into the third quarter, focusing on mega brand investments and in-home channel expansion [20][21] Question: Update on South Korea customs tax dispute and anti-dumping duties in Taiwan - The customs tax dispute is ongoing, with no new updates, while the impact of anti-dumping duties in Taiwan is still being assessed [26][28] Question: Progress on inventory destocking in China - Management reported proactive inventory management, with current levels lower than the previous year, and expects a more normalized base by the end of the year [35][36] Question: In-home channel penetration and expansion plans - The company sees significant opportunities in the in-home channel, with plans to enhance distribution and execution to capture market share [38][42] Question: Market share strategy following pricing hikes in Korea - Management indicated that the pricing strategy is aligned with brand strength and innovation, with a focus on maintaining commercial momentum [72][101] Question: Trends in the Indian market - The Indian market is experiencing strong growth, particularly in the premium segment, with ongoing efforts to improve productivity and capitalize on regulatory changes [78][81]