Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company generated revenue of $1.6 billion in Q2 2025, a decrease of 15% year-over-year, primarily due to lower freight rates and volumes [4][15] - Net income for Q2 was $24 million, down from $373 million in the same quarter last year [21] - Adjusted EBITDA was $472 million with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 29%, compared to 40% in Q2 2024 [20][21] - Total liquidity stood at $2.9 billion as of June 30, 2025, after paying approximately $470 million in dividends during the quarter [5][15] - The company raised its full-year guidance for adjusted EBITDA to a range of $1.8 billion to $2.2 billion [6][23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Carried volumes in Q2 were 895,000 TEUs, a 6% decline year-over-year, attributed to weak Transpacific demand [21][22] - Revenue from non-containerized cargo totaled $111 million, down from $128 million in Q2 2024 [16] - The average freight rate per TEU in Q2 was $1,479, down from $1,674 in the same quarter last year [15][16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced a 10% volume growth year-over-year in Latin America, contrasting with the decline in volumes from China [10][22] - The Transpacific demand was weak, and the company does not anticipate a strong peak season due to ongoing tariff uncertainties [9][10] - The overall market fundamentals indicate supply growth outpacing demand, with a projected 6% increase in supply for 2025 [13][25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to build a strong commercial presence in key markets and diversify its geographic footprint to enhance business resilience [7][8] - A focus on maintaining a modern and cost-competitive fleet is emphasized, with plans for long-term charter agreements for LNG dual-fuel vessels [11][12] - The company is adapting its Transpacific network to changes in cargo flow due to tariff announcements, aiming to capitalize on growth in Southeast Asia [7][9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating the current turbulent market environment, citing a transformed fleet and improved cost structure [6][61] - The company anticipates continued pressure on freight rates and a weaker peak season due to tariff-related disruptions [10][23] - Management highlighted the importance of agility in operational capacity to respond to shifting market dynamics [12][13] Other Important Information - The company operates 123 containerships with a total capacity of 767,000 TEUs, with two-thirds of this capacity coming from new vessels delivered in 2023 and 2024 [17][18] - The company has options to extend charter periods and purchase options for its LNG vessels, providing flexibility in capacity management [18][19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expectations on volume for the second half of the year - Management indicated that the expectation of flat volumes is driven by both market conditions and potential pullbacks in capacity due to expiring charters [30][31] Question: Capacity renewal strategy - Management stated that if market conditions continue to deteriorate, they are more likely to downsize rather than renew charters [35] Question: Impact of tariff changes on capacity - Management noted that the influx of capacity has not been rerouted due to ongoing market conditions and alliance adjustments [36][37] Question: Timing effects of freight rates - Management confirmed that there is a timing lag in revenue recognition due to the surge in spot rates, which will impact Q3 performance [42][43] Question: Cost structure and breakeven levels - Management acknowledged that costs have increased compared to pre-pandemic levels, influenced by various factors including fuel transition and operational inefficiencies [46][50] Question: Cost improvement initiatives - Management outlined several cost improvement strategies, including scaling up vessel sizes, transitioning to LNG, and leveraging partnerships to maintain cost efficiency [55][58]

Auna (AUNA) Q2 2025 Earnings Call August 20, 2025 08:00 AM ET Speaker0Good morning, and welcome to Auna's Second Quarter twenty twenty five Earnings Conference Call. My name is Ellie, and I will be your operator for today's call. At this time, all participants are in listen only mode. Please note that this call is being recorded. There will be an opportunity to ask a question at the end of today's presentation.Now I would like to turn the call over to Ana Maria Moa, Head of Investor Relations. Ma'am, please ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved a loan facilitation volume of RMB 37.1 billion, representing a year-on-year increase of approximately 54.6%, setting a new record [7][21] - Non-GAAP income from operations reached RMB 738 million, up approximately 182% year on year, while net income reached RMB 519 million, a year-on-year increase of approximately 117.8% [8][23] - The net income margin improved to 27.5%, significantly up from 16.1% in the same period last year [40] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The average borrowing amount per repeat borrower increased by 4.8% quarter on quarter, with their share of loan facilitation volume rising from 71.9% to 75.6% [10] - The number of borrowers reached 908,000, representing a year-on-year increase of approximately 33.5% [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In overseas markets, loan disbursements in Indonesia increased by over 200% year on year, and registered users grew by approximately 170% [14] - In Mexico, loan disbursement and registered users both increased by nearly 40% quarter on quarter [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on enhancing operational capabilities through data and AI empowerment to enable financial institutions to pursue long-term and quality growth [30] - The company plans to maintain compliance as a foundation while dynamically adjusting operational pace in response to new regulations [18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expects the implementation of new loan facilitation regulations to drive long-term healthy industry development and ensure healthy competition [30] - The company anticipates Q3 loan facilitation volume guidance to be between RMB 32 billion and RMB 34 billion, with non-GAAP income from operations guidance set at RMB 490 million to RMB 560 million [18][40] Other Important Information - The company distributed a cash dividend of USD 0.8 per ADS, representing a 60% increase compared to last year [31] - An additional USD 50 million was approved for the share repurchase plan, bringing the total authorized repurchase amount to USD 80 million [32] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact of new regulations on loan facilitation business and plans around shareholder returns - Management indicated that they will continue to focus on enhancing operational capabilities and are preparing contingency plans to respond to new regulations [30] - The company maintains an annual dividend policy with a total amount of approximately 30% of the previous year's net income after tax [31] Question: Outlook for profit margin and key drivers behind improved risk performance - The strong profit margin performance is attributed to increased loan facilitation volume, optimization of revenue mix, and strategic investments in AI technology [40] - Risk performance has improved due to ongoing investment in risk data and models, as well as increased loan volume [42]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q2 2025, comparable sales decreased by 1.9%, showing a nearly two percentage point improvement from Q1 [32] - Net sales were down 0.9% year-over-year, which was nearly two percentage points better than Q1 performance [40] - GAAP and adjusted EPS for Q2 were $2.05, down from $2.57 a year ago, primarily due to inventory adjustment and tariff-related costs [44] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Digital channel comparable sales grew by 4.3%, with significant strength in same-day delivery, which increased by over 25% [33] - The Fun 101 initiative led to over 5% growth in hardlines, marking the strongest quarterly comp in this category since 2021 [34] - Trading card sales increased nearly 70% year-to-date, positioning the company as a top market share player in that category [34] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company gained or held market share in 14 out of 35 subcategories tracked so far this year [41] - The food and beverage categories saw slight year-over-year growth, driven by new floral offerings and trending flavors [35] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The new CEO, Michael Fidelke, emphasized the need to reestablish merchandising authority and improve guest experience [18][19] - The company plans to leverage technology to enhance speed and efficiency across operations [23] - A focus on style and design will be central to the company's strategy moving forward [67] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged that results over the past few years have fallen short of expectations and emphasized the urgency to improve performance [7][12] - The leadership team is committed to returning the company to growth and improving the shopping experience for guests [53][55] - The company expects to navigate the current tariff environment and is optimistic about ending the year in a healthy position [11] Other Important Information - The company announced a succession plan with Michael Fidelke becoming the next CEO at the start of the 2026 fiscal year [5][6] - The company is investing in technology and process improvements to streamline operations and enhance the guest experience [49] Q&A Session Summary Question: What price increases were taken during the second quarter due to tariffs? - Management indicated that they are working hard to mitigate tariff impacts and will take price increases as a last resort, focusing on maintaining competitive pricing [58][59] Question: How does the succession plan bring about change to improve business trajectory? - The new CEO highlighted the importance of leveraging his extensive experience with the company to focus on style and design as key growth drivers [66][67] Question: What investments will be necessary to close the performance gap with peers? - The company plans to continue investing in high-return projects, including new store openings and technology enhancements [72][75]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The overall second quarter revenue was $327.4 million, which was up 8% sequentially and up 0.71% year over year, outpacing the sector [22] - Adjusted EBITDA for Q2 2025 was $70.6 million with margins of 21.6%, up 95 basis points sequentially [22] - Earnings per share adjusted for charges and credits was 21¢ for Q2 2025, up 50% from Q1 2025 [23] - Free cash flow for Q2 2025 was $68.7 million, with cash flow from operations of $98.5 million [25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Growth in Saudi Arabia was mainly driven by unconventional activity, along with growth in Egypt and Iraq [22] - Year-over-year growth was observed in Abu Dhabi, Algeria, Iraq, Egypt, and Jordan, partially offset by lower revenue in Saudi Arabia [22] - The company has secured solid new contracts in both Algeria and Libya, spanning three to five years [17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The oil price is expected to remain challenged for the next twelve months, with a 35% decline in US activity this year [8] - The rig count in Kuwait is at an all-time high, making it the second largest country in the Middle East in terms of rig count [14] - North Africa is positioned to provide much-needed gas into the pipeline to meet increasing domestic power demand [18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to achieve $2 billion in revenue, leveraging recent contract awards and a robust backlog [5] - A countercyclical investment strategy is being employed to navigate the softening upstream environment [6] - The focus is on building a solid pipeline and securing a robust backlog while maintaining profitable growth and free cash flow generation [19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The management sees MENA as a bright spot despite sustained uncertainty in the global macro environment [7] - The outlook for overall energy demand remains robust, with significant growth expected in oil demand per capita in developing countries [9] - The company expects Q3 2025 revenues and EBITDA to be consistent with Q2 2025 results [26] Other Important Information - The company has successfully remediated its final material weakness in internal controls over financial reporting [28] - The company is currently refinancing its debt facility and anticipates completion within the next three months [29] - The company plans to use excess cash flow exclusively to pay down debt for the remainder of 2025 [30] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you break apart the guidance for Q3? - The revenue for Q3 is expected to be consistent with Q2, with Q4 anticipated to be higher due to recent tender wins [40][41] Question: What is the outlook for MENA in 2026? - An uptick in MENA is expected in 2026, with countries planning to increase activity [44][49] Question: Any updates on the Jafora contract announcements? - The company is awaiting results from Aramco's evaluation phase for tenders [50] Question: Any consideration for buybacks or returning cash to shareholders? - The company will evaluate excess cash options after completing refinancing and assessing tender results [51] Question: Can you provide insights on the Kuwait contract? - The Kuwait production contracts are expected to be significant, with ongoing tenders [58] Question: What is the status of free cash flow and accounts receivables? - Accounts receivables have increased due to higher revenue, but working capital management has improved [106]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue increased by 12.4% year on year, while adjusted EBITDA grew by 11.2% [7][17] - Adjusted EBITDA margin for Q2 2025 was 47.3%, down from 47.8% in Q2 2024 [18] - Net debt to LQA adjusted EBITDA decreased from 6.6 times at the end of Q1 2025 to 6.1 times at the end of Q2 2025 [24][25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Gross new bookings in Q2 2025 were 23,000 square meters, primarily from traditional internet and cloud businesses [10] - DayOne added 246 megawatts of new commitments in Q2 2025, bringing total power committed by customers to over 780 megawatts [15][28] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The utilization rate reached 77.5% in Q2 2025 [8] - The implied cap rate for the C REITs IPO was below 5%, indicating favorable market conditions for asset monetization [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on asset monetization strategies, having successfully completed a C REITs IPO and a data center ABS transaction [8][14] - The company aims to develop 900 megawatts of power land for future development in Tier one markets, anticipating significant AI-driven demand [12][13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in AI-driven demand over the medium to long term, despite current uncertainties in chip supply [11] - The company is prepared for future growth opportunities and has established a strong capital recycling strategy [14][75] Other Important Information - The company raised net proceeds of $676 million through convertible bonds and equity offerings, strengthening its balance sheet [7] - CapEx guidance was adjusted down from RMB 4.3 billion to RMB 2.7 billion due to proceeds from the Sea REIT transaction [22][23] Q&A Session Summary Question: Future strategy in asset monetization in China - Management indicated that asset monetization remains highly accretive for shareholders and is essential for future growth opportunities [31][32] Question: Development targets for DayOne - The company targets adding at least 500 megawatts annually, with a commitment to the market of at least 300 megawatts [35][36] Question: Customer profile and workloads - The customer base includes traditional internet companies and cloud service providers, with a mix of CPU and GPU workloads [40][41] Question: Impact of deconsolidation on guidance - Management acknowledged that deconsolidation of the C REIT will materially impact EBITDA but chose not to adjust revenue and EBITDA guidance at this time [63][64] Question: Growth expectations for next year - The company expects a reacceleration in revenue and EBITDA growth in Q2 and Q3 next year, driven by significant capacity deliveries [68][70] Question: AI orders and chip supply - Management noted that chip supply issues are currently limiting stronger bookings, but they remain optimistic about future demand [72][75]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Alcon's Q2 2025 sales reached $2.6 billion, reflecting a 3% increase year-over-year, consistent with Q1 performance [27] - Core gross margin for Q2 was 62.2%, in line with the previous year, while core operating margin decreased by 100 basis points to 19.1% due to increased R&D investments [31] - Core diluted earnings per share were $0.76, broadly in line with the previous year on a constant currency basis [31] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Surgical franchise revenue increased by 1% year-over-year to $1.5 billion, with implantable sales down 2% to $456 million due to soft market conditions and competitive pressures [27][28] - Vision Care sales rose by 5% to $1.1 billion, with contact lens sales up 7% to $692 million, driven by product innovation and price increases [29] - Oculo Health sales were $430 million, up 2% year-over-year, led by eye drops, partially offset by declines in contact lens care [30] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global cataract volumes grew approximately low single digits in Q2, compared to a historical average of about 4% [25] - The retail market for contact lenses grew mid single digits during the quarter [25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Alcon is focused on acquiring transformative technologies in eye care, with recent acquisitions including the Voyager Direct device for glaucoma and STAR for refractive surgery [8][9] - The company aims to leverage its broader commercial infrastructure to accelerate adoption of new products and expand its presence in high-growth markets like China [11][12] - Alcon's strategy includes driving organic growth through innovation and execution, with a robust pipeline and strategic expansion planned for 2026 and beyond [7][36] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term durability of end markets and the resilience of customers despite softer market conditions in the first half of the year [6][7] - The company anticipates a gradual return to historical growth rates in surgical procedures, driven by an aging population and increasing cataract prevalence [57][58] - Alcon expects to fully offset tariff impacts through foreign exchange and operational actions, maintaining a focus on innovation and cost discipline [32][33] Other Important Information - Alcon generated $681 million in free cash flow in the first half of the year, enabling $287 million in returns to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends [32] - The company incurred $27 million in tariff-related charges during Q2, with an expected full-year impact of approximately $100 million on cost of sales [32] Q&A Session Summary Question: Stability in PCIOLs share in the U.S. and international markets - Management noted a sequential improvement in U.S. share by about four points, attributed to the successful reception of PanOptix Pro, while acknowledging competitive pressures in international markets [43][46] Question: Outlook for 2026 and impact of recent acquisitions - Management refrained from providing specific guidance for 2026 but expressed confidence in the strategic value of recent acquisitions, emphasizing the importance of synergies and operational support [51][53] Question: Market weakness and outlook for recovery - Management highlighted that the aging population and increasing cataract prevalence underpin confidence in future growth, despite current market normalization [57][58] Question: Unity VCS order book and placements - Management reported over 1,000 qualified leads for Unity VCS within ten weeks of launch, emphasizing a deliberate ramp-up in installations to ensure proper training and support for surgeons [62][64] Question: Performance of SUSTAIN and competitive dynamics - Management indicated mid to high single-digit growth for SUSTAIN, noting a market pop due to competitor advertising, while addressing supply issues affecting some products [92][94] Question: Growth outlook for STAR and local competition in China - Management acknowledged local competition in China but expressed confidence in the long-term growth potential of the EVO ICL platform, supported by Alcon's critical mass and market presence [96][99]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue for the company was RMB22.7 billion, a decrease of 4% year over year [32] - Revenue from Baidu Core was RMB26.3 billion, down 2% year over year [32] - Baidu Core's online marketing revenue decreased by 15% year over year to RMB16.2 billion [33] - Non-online marketing revenue for Baidu Core increased by 34% year over year, reaching RMB10 billion [33] - AI cloud revenue grew 27% year over year to RMB6.5 billion [21][33] - Operating income was RMB3.3 billion, with an operating margin of 13% [35] - Net income attributed to Baidu was RMB7.3 billion, with a diluted earnings per ADS of RMB20.35 [37] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - AI cloud business showed strong growth, with revenue increasing by 27% year over year [21][33] - Digital human technology revenue increased by 55% quarter over quarter, contributing 3% of Baidu Core's online marketing revenue [30] - Revenue generated by agents for advertisers grew 50% year over year, contributing 13% of Baidu Core's online marketing revenue [29] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Baidu App's monthly active users reached 735 million, representing a 5% year over year growth [20] - Daily average time spent per user in Q2 increased by 4% year over year [20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on AI transformation, particularly in Baidu Search, to enhance user experience and drive long-term value [19][28] - The strategy includes a shift from traditional search results to AI-generated, multimodal content [55] - The company is committed to investing in AI and has made substantial investments in AI transformation, particularly in search [81] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged near-term headwinds in advertising revenue but expressed confidence in the long-term potential of AI search monetization [81] - The company is optimistic about the growth of its AI cloud services, driven by increasing demand across various sectors [76] - Management indicated that while revenue and margins may face pressure in the near term, there is potential for recovery and improvement in profitability over time [83] Other Important Information - The company has established partnerships with Uber and Lyft to expand its autonomous driving services globally [14][92] - Apollo Go provided over 2.2 million fully driverless rides in Q2, marking a 148% year-over-year increase [13][26] Q&A Session Summary Question: How does the company view the current landscape of AI models and the positioning of Ernie? - Management noted that the pace of model iteration is faster than ever, with a diverse landscape where different models excel at various tasks [44][45] - Ernie is positioned as an application-driven model focused on generating multimodal search results and enhancing user engagement [46][47] Question: What updates can be shared regarding AI search monetization testing? - Management indicated that AI search transformation is progressing rapidly, with higher user engagement and retention metrics [54][55] - The end game for AI search involves delivering intelligent, personalized responses and connecting users with real-world services [58] Question: Can management provide a breakdown of AI cloud revenue and margin profile? - AI cloud revenue grew 27% year over year, with subscription-based revenue accounting for more than half of the total [62] - The company aims to reduce project-based revenue for greater stability and improve profitability over the long term [63] Question: What are the plans for cost optimization and margin trends? - Management is focused on internal efficiency gains while continuing to invest in AI [81] - There is an expectation for revenue and margins to remain under pressure in the near term, but potential for recovery exists as the core advertising business stabilizes [83] Question: How does the company assess its long-term differentiation in the autonomous driving landscape? - Management emphasized the company's leadership in both left-hand and right-hand drive markets, with a focus on operational excellence and cost efficiency [86][90] - Partnerships with global mobility platforms are seen as a strategy to accelerate market entry and scale operations [92]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total funded accounts reached approximately 2,900,000, representing a 41% increase year over year and an 8% rise quarter over quarter [5] - Total client assets hit a record HKD 974 billion, up 68% year over year and 17% quarter over quarter [9] - Total revenue was HKD 5.3 billion, up 70% from HKD 3.1 billion in the previous year [13] - Net income increased by 113% year over year and 20% quarter over quarter to HKD 2.6 billion, with a net income margin expanding to 48.4% [21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Brokerage commission and handling charge income was HKD 2.6 billion, an increase of 87% year over year and 12% quarter over quarter [13] - Interest income was HKD 2.3 billion, up 44% year over year and 11% quarter over quarter [14] - Wealth management client assets were HKD 163.2 billion, up 104% year over year and 17% quarter over quarter [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The US business showed robust growth, with significant increases in trading volume and client engagement [6][10] - In Japan, total trading volume increased by over 50% quarter over quarter, indicating strong market engagement [39] - The Hong Kong IPO market gained momentum, with the company acting as joint book runners for multiple listings, attracting a record number of subscribers [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to become an influential global financial services platform, with over 50% of funded accounts from clients outside of Hong Kong [5] - Plans to enhance brand acquisition through physical store rollouts and new product offerings in wealth management and crypto trading [26] - The company is focusing on integrating AI capabilities into its services to improve client engagement and investment efficiency [32][40] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted strong asset inflows due to favorable market conditions and enriched product offerings [24] - The company expects steady growth in client acquisitions and trading volume in the third quarter, driven by positive market sentiment [46] - Management expressed optimism about growth prospects in the US market, supported by strategic partnerships and product innovations [50] Other Important Information - The company launched cryptocurrency trading in most US states and plans to introduce new functionalities for crypto trading [26] - The average client assets in Singapore rose 1926% quarter over quarter, reflecting strong market performance [9] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the reasoning behind the strong net asset inflow and how will the company maintain momentum? - Management attributed strong asset inflow to favorable market performance and enriched product offerings, with plans for more physical stores and new products in the second half [24][26] Question: Can you provide details on the crypto trading performance and future plans? - Management reported strong momentum in crypto trading, with significant increases in asset value and trading volume, and plans for new product offerings [26][27] Question: What are the strategic views on the crypto business and potential for monetization? - Management outlined a four-part strategy (RACE) focusing on real-world assets, advanced technologies, conversions between traditional finance and crypto, and exchange licensing [31][34] Question: What is the competitive landscape in Japan and how is the company addressing it? - Management acknowledged strong competition from incumbents but emphasized the unique value proposition for self-directed investors and ongoing branding efforts [37][40] Question: Can you provide insights on the third quarter expectations for client acquisitions and trading volume? - Management expects steady growth in client acquisitions and trading volume, supported by positive market sentiment and ongoing product development [46][48]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total funded accounts reached approximately 2,900,000, representing a 41% increase year over year and an 8% rise quarter over quarter [5] - Total client assets hit a record HKD 974 billion, up 68% year over year and 17% quarter over quarter [8] - Total revenue was HKD 5.3 billion, up 70% from HKD 3.1 billion in the previous year [13] - Net income increased by 113% year over year and 20% quarter over quarter to HKD 2.6 billion, with a net income margin expanding to 48.4% [21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Brokerage commission and handling charge income was HKD 2.6 billion, an increase of 87% year over year and 12% quarter over quarter [13] - Interest income was HKD 2.3 billion, up 44% year over year and 11% quarter over quarter [14] - Wealth management client assets were HKD 163.2 billion at quarter end, up 104% year over year and 17% quarter over quarter [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Hong Kong continued to lead in new funded accounts, with elevated market volatility driving retail participation [6] - The US business showed robust growth, with a partnership with the New York Mets enhancing brand reach [6] - In Japan, the company hosted an investment event that attracted over 12,000 investors, strengthening brand recognition [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to become an influential global financial services platform, with over 50% of funded accounts from clients outside of Hong Kong [5] - Plans to enhance brand acquisition through physical store rollouts and new product offerings in wealth management and crypto [25] - The company is focusing on integrating AI capabilities into its services to improve client engagement and investment efficiency [31] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted strong asset inflow due to favorable market conditions and enriched product offerings [24] - The company expects steady growth in client acquisitions and trading volume in the third quarter, with positive market sentiment [46] - There is optimism regarding the growth prospects in the US market, supported by product innovations and strategic partnerships [50] Other Important Information - The company launched cryptocurrency trading in most US states and plans to introduce new functionalities for crypto trading [25] - The average client assets in Singapore rose 1926% quarter over quarter, indicating strong growth in that market [8] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the reasoning behind the strong net asset inflow and how will the company maintain momentum? - Management attributed strong asset inflow to favorable market performance and enriched product offerings, with plans for more physical stores and new products in the second half [24][25] Question: Can you provide details on the crypto trading performance and future plans? - Management reported strong momentum in crypto trading, with asset value increasing significantly and plans for new product offerings in the crypto space [25][26] Question: What are the strategic views on the crypto business and the competitive landscape in Japan? - Management highlighted the importance of traditional finance integration with crypto, advanced technologies, and the unique value proposition for self-directed investors in Japan [30][36] Question: Can you provide insights on the third quarter expectations for client acquisitions and trading volume? - Management expects steady growth in client acquisitions and trading volume, with positive market sentiment contributing to these trends [46] Question: What is the impact of new regulations on client acquisition? - Management indicated that new regulations have not significantly impacted client acquisition, maintaining confidence in achieving annual targets [54]