Urban Edge Properties(US:UE)2026-02-11 14:32Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company generated FFO as adjusted of $1.43 per share for 2025, representing a 6% growth compared to 2024, driven by strong leasing activity and same-property NOI growth of 5% [5][18] - Full-year same-property NOI increased by 5%, while the fourth quarter saw a 2.9% increase, impacted by higher snow removal expenses [18] - The balance sheet remains strong with total liquidity of $849 million and no amounts drawn on the line of credit [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company executed 58 new leases at a record same-space cash rent spread of 32%, with total new leases covering over 360,000 sq ft [5][10] - The signed but not open pipeline is expected to generate an additional $22 million of annual gross rent, representing 8% of current NOI [6] - The company completed 14 projects totaling $55 million, generating unlevered yields of 19% [7] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - National shopping center vacancy remains near historic lows, with supply constraints particularly pronounced in the Northeast [11][12] - The company noted that finding land and securing entitlements is extremely difficult in its markets, which supports expectations for healthy rent growth [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims for FFO as adjusted growth of at least 4.5% in 2026, with same-property NOI growth above 3% [8] - The growth outlook is supported by six anchor repositioning projects expected to drive significant NOI growth through 2027 [9] - The company is focused on capital recycling, acquiring high-quality shopping centers while disposing of non-core assets [8][30] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in maintaining strong leasing momentum and achieving healthy rent growth due to limited supply and high demand for quality retail spaces [5][6] - The company anticipates that new lease spreads will remain above 20% in 2026, reflecting ongoing demand [5] - Management highlighted a positive outlook for 2027, expecting approximately 5% NOI growth driven by executed leases and contractual rent increases [9] Other Important Information - The company has a redevelopment pipeline of $166 million, with a projected unlevered yield of 14% [22] - An 11% increase in the annualized dividend to $0.84 per share was approved, reflecting a payout ratio of about 56% [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expectations for shop occupancy growth - Management expects shop occupancy to stabilize around 94%-96%, with opportunities to improve leasing on occupied spaces [25][26][27] Question: Insights on capital recycling and acquisition pipeline - The acquisition market is competitive, with cap rates decreasing, but the company remains optimistic about capital recycling opportunities [28][29] Question: Same-property NOI growth path - The deceleration in 2026 is attributed to tenant fallout and one-time benefits in 2025, while growth visibility from the signed but not open pipeline supports a rebound in 2027 [34][35][36] Question: Impact of snow removal costs on guidance - Guidance for 2026 accounts for snow removal costs incurred in January, with appropriate provisions made [43][44] Question: Redevelopment pipeline opportunities - The company is focused on both small-scale and larger redevelopment projects, with a strong emphasis on enhancing existing assets [45][46][48] Question: Capital recycling avenues - Management is exploring opportunities to dispose of low-growth anchor tenants while maintaining control over the centers [53][54] Question: Specific asset performance inquiries - Gateway has long-term leases limiting immediate rent optimization, while Bruckner is undergoing significant redevelopment to enhance its value [63][66][68]