Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the full year 2025, total volumes decreased by 6% and net revenue declined by 6.1% [6][12] - Normalized EBITDA decreased by 9.8% with a margin contraction of 113 basis points [6] - In Q4 2025, total volumes decreased by 0.7%, with revenue and revenue per hectoliter decreasing by 4.2% and 3.5% respectively [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In APAC West, volumes decreased by 6.7%, with revenue and revenue per hectoliter decreasing by 8.2% and 1.5% respectively [7] - In China, volumes decreased by 3.9% in Q4, with revenue per hectoliter down by 7.7%, leading to an 11.4% revenue decline [7] - In India, strong double-digit revenue growth was achieved, with the Premium and Super Premium portfolio representing over two-thirds of total revenue [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In APAC East, volumes decreased by 1.3%, while revenue and revenue per hectoliter increased by 1.3% and 2.5% respectively [10] - In South Korea, volumes decreased by low single digits, but revenue remained flat due to ongoing revenue management initiatives [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to enhance its in-home go-to-market strategy, enrich its portfolio, and innovate behind its mega brands to reignite growth [4] - Focus on expanding market share in India and South Korea while addressing challenges in China [4] - The company plans to increase commercial investments in China to prioritize top-line growth over profitability in 2026 [32] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the performance in China was below potential, but there are signs of stabilization and initial improvement in Q4 2025 [15][17] - The company is optimistic about leveraging the World Cup as a platform for growth in 2026 [29] - Management emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong balance sheet and disciplined financial practices [12] Other Important Information - The company maintained a net cash position above $2.8 billion and recommended a dividend of $750 million for 2025, consistent with the previous year [12] - The company is focusing on premiumization and expanding its presence in the instant retail channel [39][40] Q&A Session Questions and Answers Question: What is the latest demand trend in China and any updates on Chinese New Year preparation? - Management indicated that the industry shows signs of stabilization, but on-trade demand recovery has not been significant yet [15][17] Question: Will the shareholder reward policy be reviewed with a new CEO? - Management confirmed that the rigorous review process for dividends will remain intact, and it is too early to discuss changes to the dividend policy [20] Question: What will be done differently in 2026 to turn around the business in China? - The priority remains to reignite growth and rebuild volume momentum, with a focus on enhancing execution in key channels [25][26] Question: How is the current level of channel inventory in China? - Management stated that inventory levels are lower than the previous year, and they expect to enter the Chinese New Year in a better position [66] Question: How will pricing trends look in China for 2026? - Management emphasized maintaining pricing discipline while continuing to invest in leading and growing the category [72]
BUD APAC(01876) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript