
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Core FFO per share was reported at $0.84, and AFFO per share was $0.85, each up 1.2% year-over-year [14] - Annualized base rent reached $894 million at the end of the quarter, reflecting an increase of almost 7% year-over-year [14] - The company announced a 3.4% increase in its common stock dividend, marking the thirty-sixth consecutive year of annual dividend increases [3][19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company renewed 17 out of 20 leases during the quarter, achieving rental rates 8% above prior rents [6] - Seven properties were leased to new tenants at rates 5% above prior rents, indicating strong demand for assets [7] - Acquisitions during the quarter totaled over $230 million across 45 new properties, with an initial cap rate of 7.4% and an average lease term of over 17 years [8][9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has a portfolio of approximately 3,663 freestanding single-tenant properties across all 50 states [6] - The average debt maturity is reported at 11 years, positioning the company favorably in the capital markets [12][18] - The company has nearly $1.5 billion in available liquidity, providing flexibility for acquisitions and other opportunities [12][19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is committed to a disciplined and thoughtful underwriting approach while emphasizing acquisition volume through sale-leaseback transactions [10] - The company plans to increase its full-year acquisition volume guidance to $650 million, reflecting strong transaction activity [10][20] - The focus remains on optimizing the portfolio by disposing of underperforming assets while maintaining a strong balance sheet [11][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the overall health of the portfolio, with no significant concerns regarding current tenants [7][16] - The company is optimistic about the long-term prospects for properties associated with At Home, which filed for bankruptcy but remains current on rent [7][16] - Management noted that while competition has increased, the market remains robust, and they are taking a conservative approach to future guidance [25] Other Important Information - The company successfully completed a $500 million unsecured bond offering with a 4.6% coupon, enhancing liquidity and capital flexibility [5][17] - The company has raised its guidance for core FFO per share to a range of $3.34 to $3.39, reflecting strong performance year-to-date [20] - Lease termination fees for the quarter totaled $2.2 million, which was in line with expectations [15][21] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is driving the implied deceleration in investment guidance? - Management indicated that while the market appears robust, the implied deceleration is more about conservatism and lack of visibility into the fourth quarter [25] Question: Can you discuss the new relationships in acquisitions? - Management noted that new relationships are developed through long-term calling efforts, but they do not disclose specifics about non-relationship acquisitions [27][29] Question: Update on available assets for sale or retenanting? - Management reported strong demand for certain assets, with 28 out of 64 assets currently being worked on for re-leasing [34] Question: What is the expected timing for vacant properties to be released? - Management stated that while initial marketing activity occurs within 30-40 days, the full release process may take 9-12 months depending on redevelopment needs [44] Question: How is the company managing bad debt? - Management explained that they are maintaining a conservative approach to bad debt, embedding 60 basis points in guidance due to uncertainties, particularly with At Home [50][52] Question: What is the outlook for cap rates? - Management indicated that cap rates are expected to remain stable, with potential minor fluctuations depending on the mix of closings [38] Question: How does the company plan to handle upcoming debt maturities? - Management confirmed that the recent bond issuance has prefunded refinancing needs, and they may return to the market for additional debt later in the year [42] Question: What sectors are being targeted for acquisitions and dispositions? - Management highlighted the auto service sector as a robust area for acquisitions, while dispositions are focused on underperforming assets [62]