Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The preliminary voting results indicate that the nominees for the board have been duly elected and Whitley Penn has been selected as the independent CPA for fiscal year ending 2025 [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - No specific data or metrics regarding individual business lines were provided during the meeting [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - No specific market data or metrics were discussed in the meeting [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction and Industry Competition - The company is focused on maintaining a strong relationship with stockholders and values their opinions, particularly regarding executive compensation [10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed gratitude for stockholder confidence and indicated a commitment to regular communication through quarterly updates [15][16] Other Important Information - The meeting was conducted virtually to enhance inclusivity and reach a broader audience of stockholders [3] - The company will address any unanswered questions on its corporate website following the meeting [4] Q&A Session Summary Question: Were there any questions submitted before the meeting? - There were no questions submitted in advance, and no questions were received during the meeting [15][14]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The meeting confirmed that a quorum was present, allowing for the transaction of business, with 52,352,764 shares of common stock outstanding and entitled to vote [8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - No specific data on business lines or key metrics was provided in the meeting Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - No specific market data or key metrics were discussed during the meeting Company Strategy and Development Direction and Industry Competition - The successful vote on the merger agreement is seen as a significant milestone for the company, reflecting months of hard work and careful planning [12] - The company expressed gratitude towards its partners, advisors, and shareholders for their support throughout the merger process [13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted the importance of the successful vote as a result of collective efforts and commitment to the company's vision [12] - No specific comments on the operating environment or future outlook were provided Other Important Information - The proposal to approve the merger agreement was passed, and there was no need to present a second proposal for adjournment [11] Q&A Session All Questions and Answers - No questions were raised during the Q&A session as the formal portion of the meeting concluded without further inquiries [14]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q2 2025, Workhorse shipped 32 trucks, a significant increase from 1 truck in Q2 2024, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 31 trucks [10] - Sales net of returns and allowances for Q2 2025 were $5.7 million, up from $800,000 in the same period last year, marking an increase of $4.8 million [11] - Operating expenses decreased by $7 million year-over-year while achieving record vehicle shipments [9] - The net loss for the six months ended June 30, 2025, improved from $55.5 million in 2024 to $35.4 million in 2025 [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The W56 Step Van line secured 36 purchase orders and received overwhelmingly positive customer feedback, indicating strong demand [7] - Research and development expenses decreased to $1.2 million in Q2 2025 from $2 million in Q2 2024, primarily due to lower headcount and reduced prototype expenses [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted that there are currently over 60 W56 vehicles operating in customer and partner fleets across diverse routes, validating the vehicle's performance in real-world conditions [7] - The transaction with Motive is expected to enhance the combined company's market position in the medium-duty electric vehicle sector, targeting a market valued at $23 billion [35] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The merger with Motive aims to create a broader commercial truck product portfolio and strengthen financial positions, allowing Workhorse shareholders to benefit from the combined entity's growth potential [22] - The company plans to expand its product portfolio and ensure reliable fleet operations while finalizing plans for the W56 140kW production launch in 2026 [41] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged that external factors, such as changing government regulations, have delayed fleet customer adoption rates, impacting revenue growth [21] - The combined company is expected to be better positioned to raise additional capital post-merger, enhancing its ability to pursue growth initiatives [29] Other Important Information - Workhorse completed a $20 million sale leaseback for its manufacturing facility and secured a $5 million convertible note financing to bolster liquidity [24] - The transaction is expected to close in 2025, subject to shareholder approval and customary closing conditions [26] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the relationship with Hudson County Motors and the New Jersey ZIP? - The relationship with Hudson County Motors is strong, and there are ongoing voucher programs that could extend to new locations, enhancing growth opportunities [46] Question: How will the combined company access government programs for growth? - The combined entity is expected to have a stronger balance sheet, which will facilitate access to government programs and enhance growth potential [52] Question: What are the terms of the sale and leaseback agreement? - Detailed terms of the sale leaseback and convertible note can be found in the SEC filings [76] Question: Will a reverse stock split be necessary for NASDAQ listing? - A reverse stock split may be required to meet NASDAQ's minimum price thresholds due to the change in control [78] Question: What is the expected valuation of the combined entity? - The combined entity is valued at $105 million, based on contributions from both companies and the sale leaseback transaction [80] Question: How will the product portfolios be integrated? - The integration will focus on developing a full range of Class four to six trucks, leveraging the strengths of both companies [83]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported revenues of $194 million for the quarter, with an EBITDA equivalent cash flow of $112 million [5][24] - The EBITDA equivalent over the last twelve months was $526 million [5] - The net profit for the second quarter was approximately SEK 1.5 million or $0.01 per share, compared to a net loss of approximately SEK 32 million or $0.02 per share in the previous quarter [26] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The container vessel segment generated approximately $2 million in revenue, while the car carrier fleet generated approximately NOK 26 million, slightly up from the last quarter [21][22] - The tanker fleet's gross charter hire decreased to approximately NOK 41 million from NOK 45 million in the previous quarter due to scheduled dry dockings [22] - The overall utilization across the shipping fleet was 98.1%, with an adjusted utilization of 99.9% [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The charter backlog currently stands at $4.2 billion, with two-thirds of this backlog from customers with investment-grade ratings [10][29] - The company has a diversified fleet consisting of 60 maritime assets, including 30 containerships, 16 large tankers, and two drilling rigs [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on strengthening its charter backlog by securing agreements with strong counterparties and investing in cargo handling and fuel efficiency upgrades [6][10] - The company has divested older, less efficient vessels and is committed to fleet renewal and new technology, with 11 vessels now capable of operating on LNG fuel [7][12] - The company aims to enhance its fleet to position itself for organic growth and comply with strict regulatory demands aimed at reducing shipping emissions [13][14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about finding new employment for the idle drilling rig Hercules, despite current market volatility and oil price fluctuations [8][9] - The decision to adjust the dividend to $0.20 per share was made to ensure that distributions are not subsidized by idle assets, particularly the Hercules rig [10][36] - The company has a strong liquidity position, including undrawn credit lines and unencumbered vessels, which will enable continued investment in new assets [11][27] Other Important Information - The company has returned nearly $2.9 billion to shareholders over 86 consecutive quarters [10] - The average age of the vessels sold was about 18 years, reducing the fleet average by about two years [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: What’s the status with the lawsuit with Seadrill? - The company is involved in two lawsuits, with the larger one regarding the redelivery of the Hercules scheduled for 2026, and a guarantee for an adjustment amounting to approximately $45 million to $50 million has been received from Seadrill [30] Question: Can you walk us through your thought process on the decision to lower the dividend? - Management acknowledged disappointment regarding the dividend adjustment, attributing it to the idle status of the Hercules rig and the need to ensure that distributions are not subsidized by non-operational assets [34][36] Question: What are the expected costs for dry docking in the second half of the year? - Management expects dry docking costs to be significantly lower in Q3 and Q4 compared to Q2, with estimates around $3 million to $3.5 million for Q3 and $1 million to $2 million for Q4 [42][44] Question: How is the company viewing opportunities for potential acquisitions? - The company continues to look for acquisition opportunities, although the market has been slower due to general uncertainty. They have significant investment capacity following recent divestitures [46][47] Question: What should be expected for the organic EBITDA contribution from the energy side? - The energy segment is expected to have a negative drag going forward, but the shipping fleet is generating solid contributions and cash flow [50][54]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated adjusted EBITDA for Q2 2025 reached $55 million, with year-to-date EBITDA amounting to $91 million, reflecting a 60% year-over-year decline in both periods [10][11][12] - Sales totaled $392 million during Q2, with year-to-date sales reaching $716 million, driven by higher volumes sold across operations despite lower prices [10][11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the Sugar, Ethanol, and Energy business, crushing volume was 20% lower year-over-year due to fewer effective milling days and a selective slower milling pace [12][13] - Farming business reported a 12% year-over-year increase in total production, attributed to higher planted area and record productivity in rice operations [12][20] - Adjusted EBITDA for the Farming business totaled $1 million during the quarter, with year-to-date EBITDA at $18 million, impacted by lower international prices and higher costs [21][23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Rice prices have significantly decreased, but customized rice varieties at premium prices are being offered to offset global price drops [7] - Dairy processing volumes are increasing due to a growing market presence, while efforts are ongoing to expand the product portfolio [7][20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to be the lowest cost producer while diversifying operations across geographies and products, which serves as a natural hedge against commodity price fluctuations and weather risks [5][6] - A memorandum of understanding was signed with Tether to explore using a portion of energy production for bitcoin mining, indicating a potential innovative project [8] - The company is focusing on improving margins by reducing leased area by approximately 30% in response to challenging price and cost conditions [7][21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about reaching similar crushing levels to the previous year despite a difficult start to the season, citing improved crushing rates in July and August [31][32] - The company is constructive about sugar and ethanol prices, anticipating a potential increase due to lower sugarcane yields and strong ethanol demand [35][36] - Management acknowledged the need to maintain a net leverage ratio below 2.0 times EBITDA while exploring both organic and inorganic growth opportunities [67][68] Other Important Information - Net debt increased to $699 million, 11% higher year-over-year, primarily due to higher short-term borrowings for working capital [23][24] - The company has committed $45 million to shareholder distribution, including dividends and share repurchases [27] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expectations for crushing figures and sugar prices - Management indicated that despite a challenging first quarter, they expect to crush similar amounts of sugarcane as last year, driven by improved performance in July and August [31][32] - They anticipate sugar prices to react positively due to lower sugarcane yields and strong ethanol demand [35][36] Question: Quality of cane and yield expectations - Management expects yields to be flat year-over-year, with a slight decrease in TRS content due to frost affecting sugarcane [41][45] Question: Triggers for hedging next season - Management believes sugar prices could react in the short term based on Brazilian crop impacts, with plans to accelerate hedging once market conditions clarify [54][55] Question: Partnership with Tether and its impact - The partnership is seen as a potential opportunity to sell energy at attractive prices, with ongoing evaluations to determine feasibility [74]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total sales for the second quarter were $45.3 billion, an increase of 4.9% from the same period last year [6][26] - Comp sales increased by 1% year-over-year, with U.S. comp sales rising by 1.4% [6][27] - Adjusted diluted earnings per share were $4.68, a slight increase compared to $4.67 in the same quarter last year [7][29] - Gross margin was 33.4%, a slight increase compared to the previous year [27] - Operating margin decreased to 14.5% from 15.1% in the previous year [28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - 12 out of 16 merchandising departments posted positive comps, with notable strength in categories like storage, bath, and building materials [19][20] - Comp average ticket increased by 1.4%, while comp transactions decreased by 0.4% [19] - Online comp sales increased approximately 12% compared to the same quarter last year [21] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In local currency, Canada and Mexico posted positive comps, while foreign exchange rates negatively impacted total company comps by approximately 40 basis points [27] - The company experienced a notable improvement in underlying demand, particularly in July, attributed to favorable weather conditions [38][43] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on enhancing customer experience through technology investments and expanding its pro ecosystem [9][12] - The pending acquisition of GMS is expected to broaden distribution capabilities and enhance product offerings [10][11] - The company aims to grow market share by diversifying product sourcing and improving supply chain flexibility [12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating market uncertainties and reaffirmed fiscal 2025 guidance, expecting total sales growth of approximately 2.8% [31][32] - The company anticipates a slight improvement in comp sales for the second half of the year, driven by broader customer engagement [40][41] - Economic uncertainty remains a significant factor affecting larger remodeling projects, with management noting that customers are deferring rather than canceling projects [73] Other Important Information - The company opened three new stores, bringing the total store count to 2,353 [29] - Merchandise inventories were $24.8 billion, up approximately $1.8 billion compared to the previous year [29] - The effective tax rate for the quarter was 24.2%, slightly down from 24.5% in the previous year [29] Q&A Session Summary Question: July improvement and comp drivers - Management noted that the July improvement was due to broader engagement across the portfolio and favorable weather conditions [38][40] Question: Impact of potential rate cuts - Management indicated that lower mortgage rates could help alleviate the frozen housing market, which is currently affecting larger project decisions [44][45] Question: Clarity on tax package and large project recovery - Management expressed optimism about lower taxes and potential interest rate cuts, which could positively impact large project activity [50][51] Question: Complex Pro initiatives and performance - Management highlighted the ongoing improvements in the Pro ecosystem and the positive feedback from customers regarding delivery reliability [76][84] Question: Capital allocation decisions and market changes - Management emphasized the importance of driving share capture and earnings growth while maintaining attractive returns on investments [92][94]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenues for 2025 were approximately $3.2 million, an increase from $2.3 million in 2024, primarily driven by strong seed sales from the subsidiary Castera [9][26] - Research and development expenses for 2025 were approximately $4.8 million, down from $6.5 million in the same period last year, due to reduced R&D activities at Biomica and the discontinuation of operations at Canonic [10][27] - Total operating expenses for 2025 were approximately $7.7 million, significantly decreased from $11.1 million in the same period last year, attributed to reduced activity levels in subsidiaries [11][29] - The net loss for 2025 was approximately $7.7 million, compared to $9.8 million in the same period last year, reflecting decreased operating expenses and increased financing income [32] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Castera, the subsidiary responsible for seed sales, was the primary contributor to revenue growth, with revenues recognized for seed sales in 2025 [9][26] - Biomica is focused on completing its clinical trial expected in early 2026 and securing partners for its development programs, holding approximately $4 million in cash [17][21] - Laviv Bio's activities were largely sold to ICL, with a total consideration of $15.25 million, enhancing cash flow for Evogene [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is undergoing a strategic shift to maximize the value of Campus AI, focusing on AI-driven discovery and optimization in pharmaceuticals and agriculture [12][19] - The collaboration with Tel Aviv University aims to develop small molecule therapeutics targeting diseases caused by metabolite accumulation, leveraging Campus AI [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The strategic priorities include strengthening Campus AI, expanding collaborations in small molecule drug discovery, and streamlining operational expenses [12][19] - The company plans to establish a dedicated business development arm to accelerate growth in the pharmaceutical vertical and maintain strategic collaborations in agriculture [20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the new strategic direction and the potential for increased investor interest as new collaborations are announced [40] - The company expects continued reductions in operating expenses in the third and fourth quarters of 2025 [42] Other Important Information - Evogene raised $4.4 million through an at-the-market facility, enhancing its financial position and providing an operational runway of approximately 18 months [18] - The company is focusing on operational discipline and long-term value creation, with plans to present its updated corporate strategy at industry conferences [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: How much caster seed inventory do you have today, both finished and expected to be finished after the harvest? - The company has a few hundred tons of castor seed ready for sale and plans to utilize its seeds for cultivation to sell grain to partners [35][36] Question: What steps need to occur before you can announce a castor oil business? - The company is currently focused on grain cultivation and selling grain to partners, with existing crushing oil factories eager for castor grain [38] Question: The stock is still low. When will it start going up? - Management indicated that they cannot control the stock market but are finalizing a new company presentation and plan to announce new collaborations that could positively impact stock value [39][40] Question: How representative are operating expenses in Q2 2025 for going forward operations? - Management confirmed that all cost reductions are fully reflected in the numbers, with expectations for continued expense declines [42] Question: What was revenue in Q2 2025? How should we think about peak sales given recent results? - The revenue in Q2 2025 was primarily from Castera, with expectations for future sales growth as the company engages with multiple partners [43][44] Question: For Campus AI platform, what catalyst milestones should we expect in the next twelve to eighteen months? - The company anticipates announcements of new collaborations and breakthroughs in technology development as key milestones [46][49]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total sales for the second quarter were $45.3 billion, an increase of 4.9% from the same period last year [5][25]. - Comparable sales increased by 1% year-over-year, with U.S. comps rising by 1.4% [5][25]. - Adjusted diluted earnings per share were $4.68, slightly up from $4.67 in the previous year [6][28]. - Gross margin was 33.4%, a slight increase compared to the previous year [26]. - Operating margin decreased to 14.5% from 15.1% in the previous year [27]. - Return on invested capital was 27.2%, down from 31.9% in the previous year [29]. Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - 12 out of 16 merchandising departments posted positive comps, including categories like storage, bath, hardware, and building materials [17][18]. - The average ticket increased by 1.4%, while comp transactions decreased by 0.4% [17]. - Online comp sales increased approximately 12% compared to the previous year [19]. Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In local currency, Canada and Mexico posted positive comps, with total company comps negatively impacted by foreign exchange rates by approximately 40 basis points [26]. - The company experienced a positive comp performance in July, with U.S. comps at 3.3% [25][26]. Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on enhancing customer experience through technology investments and building a pro ecosystem to serve complex purchases [7][10]. - The acquisition of GMS is expected to complement the existing SRS business and broaden distribution capabilities [8][9]. - The company aims to grow market share by diversifying product sourcing and improving supply chain flexibility [10]. Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating market uncertainties and highlighted strong underlying demand for home improvement projects [9][30]. - The company reaffirmed its fiscal 2025 guidance, expecting total sales growth of approximately 2.8% and comp sales growth of about 1% [30][31]. - Management noted that economic uncertainty remains a significant factor affecting larger remodeling projects [44][72]. Other Important Information - The company opened three new stores, bringing the total store count to 2,353 [28]. - Merchandise inventories were $24.8 billion, up approximately $1.8 billion compared to the previous year [28]. Q&A Session Summary Question: Improvement in July and comp expectations for the second half - Management noted that July's improvement was due to better weather and broader engagement across the portfolio, with expectations for a slight uptick in comps for the second half [35][39]. Question: Potential impact of rate cuts and tax reform - Management indicated that lower mortgage rates could help alleviate the frozen housing market, but economic uncertainty remains the primary reason for deferring large projects [43][44]. Question: Clarity on large project activity recovery - Management expressed optimism about potential rate cuts and tax reforms but noted that the guidance does not assume improvements in larger project outlooks [48][49]. Question: Pricing and promotional activity - Management stated that over 50% of products are sourced domestically, and while some price movements are expected due to tariffs, the focus remains on maintaining value for customers [52][100]. Question: Category performance and regional insights - Management highlighted that 12 of 16 categories posted positive comps, with notable strength in pro-heavy categories and seasonal DIY products [17][21].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Ituran reported record revenues of $86.8 million for Q2 2025, a 2% increase from $84.9 million in Q2 2024 [12] - Subscription fee revenues increased by 6% year over year to $63.8 million, while product revenues decreased by 6% to $23 million due to a temporary halt in sales during the conflict [13] - Net income for the quarter was $13.5 million, a 2% increase compared to $13.1 million in the same quarter last year, with diluted earnings per share rising to 68 cents [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The subscriber base expanded to 2,548,000, adding 40,000 net subscribers in the quarter, with a target of 220,240 new subscribers for 2025 [5][13] - The company launched new telematics products, including a motorcycle solution, which is gaining traction in various markets [6][8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The geographic revenue breakdown showed Israel contributing 54%, Brazil 23%, and the rest of the world 23% [14] - The strengthening of the US dollar against local currencies had a slight deflationary impact on financial results when denominated in US dollars, but local currency revenues grew by 4% year over year [12][13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Ituran aims to continue its growth and profitability trajectory, focusing on expanding its subscriber base and launching new products [5] - The company is targeting the motorcycle market in Latin America, with a new partnership with BMW Motoraid in Brazil to enhance its market presence [7][8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the impact of the war between Israel and Iran, which caused a temporary economic standstill but expressed confidence in ongoing growth [4][11] - The company remains optimistic about achieving its subscriber growth targets and exploring new avenues for business acceleration [11] Other Important Information - Ituran generated $22.4 million in operating cash flow during the quarter and declared a dividend of $10 million, reflecting strong profitability and cash flow [9][10] - The board of directors increased the dividend policy by 25% at the end of the previous year, now providing a solid annualized return of around 5% [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: How should growth be viewed in the second half, and is there a bounce back in Israel? - Management confirmed they are on track for subscriber growth of 220,000 to 240,000 in the second half of the year [20] Question: Can you provide more details on the BMW deal and its potential customer scope? - The partnership with BMW in Brazil is expected to yield tens of thousands of new subscribers annually, as they will install Ituran's motorcycle solution [21] Question: How should financial expenses be viewed going forward? - Financial expenses are linked to foreign exchange rates and cash deposits, with the current quarter's expenses affected by the strengthening of the Israeli shekel [22]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For the fourth quarter, net sales were $114.6 million, representing a growth of 3.4% compared to $110.8 million in the prior year quarter, marking the seventh consecutive quarter of sales growth [14] - The adjusted operating margin was 9% in the quarter, a 340 basis point improvement over the prior year quarter, while the adjusted operating profit increased by 71% to $31.2 million for the fiscal year [5][7] - Free cash flow for the quarter was $19.1 million, contributing to an ending cash balance of $40 million [6][7] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Growth in core markets was driven by strategic accounts and new product introductions, particularly in the health and wellness category with ZCLINER products [5] - The company experienced a sales order backlog of $66.5 million at the end of the period, an increase of $6.9 million compared to the prior year [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted soft market conditions and tariff uncertainty as industry headwinds, yet managed to achieve sales growth in both core and new markets [4][10] - The demand environment was characterized as "choppy," with retail traffic being soft during the summer months, influenced by uncertainty around tariffs and inflation [40] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to focus on further penetrating the health and wellness and case goods product categories, with an emphasis on innovation and marketing to drive brand awareness [9][10] - Strategic initiatives include enhancing customer experience, product relevance, and faster product launches to maintain growth momentum [8][9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate the current environment, despite anticipating continued difficult industry conditions [10][21] - The company is actively working on cost savings initiatives to mitigate the impact of tariffs, including supply chain adjustments and pricing actions [11][12] Other Important Information - The company has increased its dividend twice in the past twelve months and maintains a healthy cash balance [7] - The effective tax rate for fiscal year 2026 is expected to be in the range of 25% to 27% [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Initial reaction to pricing actions or surcharges - Management noted that they are closely collaborating with retailers to understand the impact of pricing changes on demand and believe they are positioned well despite the challenges [25][26] Question: New cost savings initiatives - Management confirmed that they are pursuing cost savings across the supply chain and these initiatives are factored into the first quarter guidance for margins [27][28] Question: Focus on new product innovation - Management indicated that the focus on new product innovation is a continuation of previous efforts, which have been key to their growth success [30] Question: Inventory management - Management expressed confidence in their inventory position and ability to serve customers, while also noting potential incremental costs due to higher tariff rates [31][32] Question: Capital allocation strategy - Management reiterated their capital allocation strategy of reinvesting 70% of operating cash flow back into the business and returning 30% to shareholders [33][34] Question: Demand characterization - Management characterized demand as choppy, influenced by external factors such as tariffs and inflation, but remains optimistic about long-term recovery [40][41]