PureCycle Technologies(PCT) - 2025 H2 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Comprehensive income after tax improved to $31 million from a loss of $30 million last year, primarily due to a lower fair value loss [10] - Funds from operations (FFO) increased by 6.7% to $161.4 million, with underlying FFO reflecting a 3.3% increase to $0.54 per share [14][19] - The weighted average cost of debt at year-end was 5.2%, with interest coverage for the period at 2x [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Auckland office portfolio delivered like-for-like rental growth of 2.5%, while Wellington generated strong growth of around 6% [11] - Commercial Bay Retail saw FFO increase by 8.3%, with occupancy remaining at 97% and specialty sales over $12,000 per square meter [36] - The investment portfolio's occupancy increased to 97%, with approximately 19,000 square meters leased over the financial year [30] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Auckland premium office market remains strong with a vacancy rate of 3.3%, while secondary markets are experiencing increased vacancy [32] - The Wellington market remains subdued, primarily influenced by central government expenditure [35] - The retail sector is showing signs of recovery with improved trading conditions and anticipated visitor growth [36] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on capital management and has launched a process to seek a capital partner for 50% of PwC Tower [5] - The development pipeline is valued at $3.7 billion, with a commitment to student accommodation and residential projects [40] - The company aims to grow its capital partnerships from $1.6 billion to $4-5 billion over the medium term [29] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The economic environment is sluggish, particularly in Auckland and Wellington, but growth opportunities are emerging [5][6] - Management expects the broader economy to improve in the latter part of the year and into 2026, supported by monetary policy easing [6] - The company remains optimistic about capitalizing on opportunities in an improving economy [41] Other Important Information - The company has updated its dividend policy to a payout range of 80% to 95% of funds from operations, reflecting a more flexible approach [18] - The InterContinental Hotel sale achieved a premium to book value, indicating strong market interest [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on PwC Tower process and potential new partnership - The process is in early stages with encouraging engagement from multiple parties, reflecting strong demand for premium office space [44][45] Question: Likelihood of starting enabling works in 2026 - The company anticipates commencing enabling works next year [50] Question: Clarification on one-off items affecting FFO - One-off items include closure costs related to a hospitality venue and swap closeouts due to capital structure changes [51] Question: Guidance on FY 2026 tax benefit adjustment - A small tax expense is expected, with estimates around 30-40 basis points [54] Question: Capital partnering for 256 Queen student accommodation - Strong interest from both domestic and offshore investors, with options for university or independent operator involvement [80]