Eversource(ES) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-13 15:00
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported full-year non-GAAP earnings per share of $4.76, a slight increase from $4.57 in 2024, while GAAP earnings for 2025 were $4.56 per share compared to $2.27 per share in 2024 [21][19] - The company paid dividends of $3.01 per share, representing a 5.2% increase [5] - The FFO to debt ratio improved by over 400 basis points at Moody's [9][35] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Electric transmission earned $2.09 per share in 2025, up from $2.03 per share in 2024, driven by investments in service reliability and demand growth [22] - Electric distribution earnings increased to $1.80 per share in 2025 from $1.77 per share in 2024, primarily due to base distribution rate increases [22] - Natural gas distribution segment earnings rose to $0.97 per share in 2025 from $0.81 per share in 2024, attributed to base distribution rate increases and infrastructure investments [23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company successfully deployed over $4 billion in capital investments in 2025, focusing on grid modernization and customer energy efficiency programs [6] - The advanced metering infrastructure program reached over 100,000 smart meter installations in Massachusetts, part of a larger initiative to upgrade 1.5 million meters statewide [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to continue delivering top-tier operational performance while advancing infrastructure investments, including a new five-year capital investment plan of $26.5 billion, which is an increase of $2.3 billion from the previous plan [12][25] - The focus remains on enhancing customer experience, safety, and reliability while addressing aging infrastructure and supporting the clean energy transition [12][13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving earnings growth towards the upper half of the 5%-7% long-term EPS range by 2028, despite challenges in 2026 [18][39] - The company is navigating a changing regulatory landscape and addressing affordability concerns while maintaining a strong balance sheet [17][39] Other Important Information - The company received regulatory approvals for rate adjustments and cost recovery mechanisms that align with infrastructure investment needs [8][29] - The company is actively pursuing the sale of Aquarion Water Company and has submitted a notice of intent to file a rate case for Aquarion [14][32] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact of Aquarion sale on funding needs - Management indicated that if the Aquarion sale is approved, it could reduce the need for alternative financing solutions, potentially enhancing growth rates [46][60] Question: Status of Revolution Wind project liabilities - Management clarified that the obligation is to Global Infrastructure Partners, not Ørsted, and that the critical trigger for liability ends at the commercial operation date [61][66] Question: Sources and uses of cash regarding minority interest sales - Management discussed exploring various alternatives for financing, including minority interest sales, but emphasized that details are still being evaluated [73][75] Question: Timeline for the completion of the Aquarion sale - Management confirmed that the decision from PURA regarding the Aquarion sale is expected in March, which will clarify the company's next steps [32][102] Question: Drivers for earnings growth in 2027 - Management highlighted several key drivers for 2027, including the Aquarion transaction, storm cost recovery, and regulatory adjustments [89]
Enbridge(ENB) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-13 15:00
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported record financial results for Q4 2025, with adjusted EBITDA up CAD 83 million compared to Q4 2024, DCF up CAD 0.06, and EPS increased CAD 0.13 [23][24] - The debt to adjusted EBITDA ratio stands at 4.8, maintaining the leverage range of 4.5-5 times, which supports a strong investment-grade credit profile [26][27] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the liquids segment, strong mainline volumes and lower power costs contributed to year-over-year increases in earnings [23] - The gas transmission business experienced a strong fourth quarter, with contributions from the acquisition of an interest in Matterhorn and favorable spreads at Aitken Creek [24] - The gas distribution segment saw growth driven by rate escalations, customer growth, and favorable weather conditions [24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The mainline transported approximately 3.1 million barrels per day on average, with significant demand leading to apportionment for all but three of the last 12 months [13][23] - The Texas Eastern pipeline hit new peak records, transporting over 15 BCF per day in January, indicating strong demand for gas transmission [7][23] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company sanctioned CAD 14 billion of capital across all businesses in 2025, with a growth backlog that has increased by 35% since the last Investor Day [5][11] - Future growth is expected to be driven by CAD 10-20 billion of growth projects over the next 24 months, enhancing energy security and affordability [11][30] - The company aims for 5% growth through the end of the decade, supported by a secured growth capital of CAD 39 billion [30] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving the 5% growth target, citing positive developments in the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin and increasing production [36][37] - The company is optimistic about the demand for natural gas and the potential for further expansions in gas transmission and renewable power projects [12][19] Other Important Information - The company has increased its dividend for 31 consecutive years, highlighting its commitment to returning capital to shareholders [5][26] - The current backlog of projects is valued at CAD 39 billion, extending through 2033, showcasing the company's ability to execute on growth opportunities [27] Q&A Session Summary Question: Investment capacity increase and growth trajectory - The investment capacity increased by CAD 1 billion, and management is confident in achieving the 5% growth target, reconciling capacity growth with EBITDA growth [33][34] Question: Venezuelan geopolitical impact on projects - Management indicated that while Venezuelan production may impact the market, Canadian crude will continue to find demand, supporting ongoing projects like MLO 2 and MLO 3 [39][40] Question: Project backlog and funding sources - Management expressed confidence in managing the CAD 10-20 billion project backlog, noting that capacity will grow as EBITDA increases [45][46] Question: Expansion capabilities and tariffs - Management confirmed that existing infrastructure allows for significant expansion capabilities at Ingleside, and tariffs for expansions are expected to remain competitive [56][61] Question: Gas transmission growth sustainability - The gas transmission segment is expected to continue growing due to high demand for natural gas and ongoing projects, with a strong pipeline capacity across the country [70][75]
Vale(VALE) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-13 15:00
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4 2025, Vale's pro forma EBITDA reached $4.8 billion, a 17% increase year-on-year and a 10% increase quarter-on-quarter, primarily driven by strong performance in Vale Base Metals and favorable pricing conditions for copper and by-products [13][14] - The all-in cost for iron ore reached $54.3 per ton in Q4, averaging $54.2 per ton for 2025, reflecting a downward trajectory in C1 cash costs and gains from long-term affreightment strategy [16][20] - Recurring free cash flow generation reached approximately $1.7 billion in Q4, more than double compared to the previous year [18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Iron ore production reached 336 million tons in 2025, a 3% increase year-on-year, driven by low capital-intensive projects and solid performance in Brucutu and S11D [7][9] - Vale Base Metals achieved double-digit production growth in both copper and nickel, with copper production reaching 382,000 tons (10% increase year-on-year) and nickel production reaching 177,000 tons (11% increase year-on-year) [9][10] - Cost reductions were noted across all commodities, with copper all-in costs decreasing to -$900 per ton, the lowest in the business's history, and nickel all-in costs declining by 35% year-on-year to $9,000 per ton [17][19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company anticipates crude steel production in China for 2026 to remain at the same level as the previous year, supported by infrastructure and manufacturing [81] - The market is seeing a decline in premiums for iron ore fines, primarily due to lower market premiums and mix optimization, but the flagship products maintained resilient premiums [40][42] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Vale's strategy focuses on operational excellence and adding high-quality growth projects, particularly in copper and iron ore, with the Novo Carajás program aimed at doubling copper output [4][6] - The company emphasizes a disciplined approach to capital allocation, with a long-term CapEx guidance below $6 billion, while also ensuring attractive shareholder returns [11][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism for 2026, highlighting strong operational performance and the ability to deliver on guidance [7][22] - The company is focused on unlocking value from existing assets while positioning for growth opportunities, particularly in the context of energy transition and AI [23][24] Other Important Information - Vale achieved a 21% reduction in high potential incidents, reflecting improvements in safety culture [5] - The company has made significant progress on reparation efforts, reaching 81% execution of the Brumadinho agreement and disbursing BRL 73 billion under the Mariana agreement [6] Q&A Session Summary Question: Regarding the strong results from Vale Base Metals and cost performance - Management acknowledged the strong by-product credits influencing costs and highlighted ongoing bottom-up initiatives to improve cost performance [30][31] Question: On the strategic value of copper assets and potential IPO discussions - Management noted the market's growing appreciation for the base metals business and emphasized the importance of demonstrating growth potential before considering any capital market transactions [34][36] Question: About the dynamics of iron ore pricing and realized prices - Management explained that the decline in realized prices was due to lower market premiums and emphasized the importance of optimizing contribution margin across the supply chain [40][42] Question: On nickel cash costs and operational goals - Management detailed ongoing initiatives to reduce costs in the nickel business, focusing on asset integrity and reliability to achieve cash flow breakeven [45][50] Question: Regarding developments at Fábrica and Vega operations - Management reported limited impact from sediment overflow incidents and ongoing efforts to enhance resilience against climate change [59][61] Question: On the status of restricted AUM and ESG improvements - Management indicated that approximately $1.5 trillion of assets have been unlocked since the incidents, with ongoing efforts to improve ESG ratings and investor relations [63][64]
Sixth Street Specialty Lending(TSLX) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-13 14:32
Sixth Street Specialty Lending (NYSE:TSLX) Q4 2025 Earnings call February 13, 2026 08:30 AM ET Company ParticipantsBo Stanley - CEOBrian McKenna - Director of Equity ResearchCami Senatore - Head of Investor RelationsFinian O'Shea - DirectorIan Simmonds - CFOKen Lee - VPPaul Johnson - VPRobert Dodd - DirectorRoss Bruck - Managing Director and Head of Investment StrategyConference Call ParticipantsArren Cyganovich - Senior AnalystRick Shane - Managing Director and Senior Equity Research AnalystSean-Paul Adams ...
DraftKings(DKNG) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-13 14:32
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4 2025, revenue grew 43% year-over-year to nearly $2 billion, with Adjusted EBITDA reaching $343 million, four times the prior year period [5][14] - Adjusted EBITDA margin expanded by over 1,000 basis points year-over-year to 17% [5][14] - For the fiscal year 2025, revenue increased 27% year-over-year to above $6 billion, and Adjusted EBITDA more than tripled to over $600 million [7][17] - The company reported positive net income for the first time in fiscal year 2025 and repurchased 16 million shares during the year [7][17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fantasy revenue increased as the Pick Six product began to scale [14] - Sportsbook revenue increased over 30% year-over-year, with Q4 revenue rising 64% year-over-year to $1.4 billion [15] - iGaming revenue grew by 20% due to expanded offerings [15] - Lottery revenue benefited from a stronger jackpot environment and the rollout of new games [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sportsbook handle increased 11% year-over-year to $54 billion, with a total potential payout across all open wagers of $2.5 trillion [16] - In January, Sportsbook handle increased 4% year-over-year, despite sportsbook-friendly outcomes in previous months [8][16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on the predictions market as a significant growth opportunity, targeting hundreds of millions in annual revenue in the coming years [6][10] - DraftKings plans to integrate Railbird and launch a market-making division to enhance customer experience and liquidity [12][13] - The company aims to lead the predictions category and is supportive of regulatory frameworks that facilitate market growth [10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the business model's efficiency and sustainability, expecting continued revenue and Adjusted EBITDA growth [7][8] - The regulatory environment for predictions has improved, providing a stable backdrop for growth [22][23] - Management anticipates that predictions will not cannibalize existing sportsbook revenue, as initial adoption rates have been strong [8][9] Other Important Information - The company repurchased 8 million shares in Q4 2025 and plans to remain active in share repurchases as Adjusted EBITDA grows [5][14] - The predictions market is expected to represent a $10 billion annual gross revenue opportunity in the future [10] Q&A Session All Questions and Answers Question: Why is the company more aggressively leaning into prediction markets now? - Management noted that the regulatory environment has stabilized, allowing for more confident investment in predictions, which is seen as a significant growth opportunity [22][23] Question: Can you provide insights on the revenue guidance for 2026? - Management indicated that the guidance reflects expected investments in predictions and disciplined planning, with a revenue range of $6.5 billion to $6.9 billion [18][19] Question: What could drive revenue higher in 2026? - Predictions are seen as an upside opportunity, with no revenue included in the guidance for 2026, as the focus will be on customer acquisition [33][34] Question: How is the competitive environment characterized? - Management described the current promotional environment as rational, with no significant uptick in promotional intensity from smaller operators [71][86] Question: What are the expectations for prediction markets influencing state legislation? - Management noted that there is traction in discussions around legalization and that states are considering the implications of predictions on existing sports betting frameworks [74]
AtlasClear Holdings(ATCH) - 2026 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-13 14:32
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue grew 84% year-over-year, reaching $5.1 million for the quarter [4][9] - Net income reported at $6.8 million, marking a significant improvement [10] - Stockholders' equity turned positive to $21.7 million, an increase of nearly $60 million since year-end 2024 [4][10] - Total assets increased to $77.6 million from $60.9 million as of June 30, 2025 [10][11] - Cash and restricted cash at quarter-end totaled $46.2 million, including $23.1 million in cash and cash equivalents [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Commissions were the largest revenue contributor at just over $3 million, with clearing fees and stock locate-related activity also contributing significantly [9] - The operational performance of Wilson-Davis as the core clearing engine showed continued strength across commissions and clearing-related activities [6][7] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The current market environment is becoming increasingly constructive, with greater engagement from broker-dealers and financial institutions focusing on operational efficiency and modernization [4][5] - Firms are expanding their focus beyond traditional equities into a wider range of products and services, emphasizing flexibility and capital efficiency [4] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to build a modern, technology-enabled financial infrastructure platform for smaller and mid-sized institutions [3] - Priorities include enhancing the client experience, increasing operational consistency, and scaling responsibly [12] - The proposed acquisition of Commercial Bancorp of Wyoming is part of the strategy to create a full licensing platform, combining correspondent clearing services with banking services [13][28] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the company's position entering 2026, highlighting a strengthened balance sheet and operational momentum [15] - The focus is on execution, delivering for clients, and expanding thoughtfully to build a platform for long-term growth [12][15] Other Important Information - The company has significantly simplified its capital structure, with a current outstanding share count of approximately 150 million shares [17] - Regulatory capital has been strengthened, with a threshold of $10.5 million that must be maintained [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: What does the fully diluted share count look like today? - The current outstanding share count is approximately 150 million shares, with potential additional shares from warrants and convertible notes [17] Question: How should investors think about corporate liquidity versus regulatory capital? - The company maintains a regulatory capital threshold of $10.5 million and has increased its regulatory capital significantly [18] Question: At what revenue level does the clearing business begin to generate consistent operating leverage? - The operating costs are around $14 million, and once covered, the company expects to achieve significant operating leverage [19][20] Question: What is the expected ramp timeline for new introducing brokerage firms? - The company is optimistic about onboarding new clients quickly, with expected positive revenue impacts in the coming quarters [21][23] Question: Can you provide an update on the proposed Commercial Bancorp acquisition? - The company is preparing to file for regulatory approval, with expectations for a quicker approval process than initially anticipated [24][25][28]
AtlasClear Holdings(ATCH) - 2026 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-13 14:32
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue grew 84% year-over-year, reaching $5.1 million for the quarter [4][9] - Net income reported at $6.8 million, marking a significant improvement [4][10] - Stockholders' equity turned positive to $21.7 million, an increase of nearly $60 million since year-end 2024 [4][10] - Total assets increased to $77.6 million from $60.9 million as of June 30, 2025 [10] - Cash and restricted cash at quarter-end totaled $46.2 million, including $23.1 million in cash and cash equivalents [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Commissions were the largest revenue contributor at just over $3 million for the quarter, with clearing fees and stock locate-related activity also contributing meaningfully [9] - The operational performance of Wilson-Davis as the core clearing engine showed continued strength across commissions and clearing-related activities [6][7] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The current market environment is becoming increasingly constructive, with greater engagement from broker-dealers and financial institutions focusing on operational efficiency and modernization [4][5] - The demand for flexible and efficient clearing infrastructure is growing among smaller and mid-sized institutions [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to build a modern, technology-enabled financial infrastructure platform for smaller and mid-sized institutions [3] - Priorities include enhancing the client experience, scaling responsibly, and advancing the full AtlasClear vision, including the proposed acquisition of Commercial Bancorp of Wyoming [12][13] - The focus is on execution, delivering for clients, and building a platform designed for long-term growth [15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the company's position entering 2026, highlighting a strengthened balance sheet and operational momentum [15] - The regulatory environment is perceived to be improving, potentially accelerating the approval process for the Commercial Bancorp acquisition [25] Other Important Information - The company has significantly simplified its capital structure over the past year, with a current outstanding share count of approximately 150 million shares [17] - The acquisition of Commercial Bancorp is expected to create a full licensing platform, enhancing service offerings [27][28] Q&A Session Summary Question: What does the fully diluted share count look like today? - The current outstanding share count is approximately 150 million shares, with potential additional shares from warrants and convertible notes [17] Question: How should investors think about corporate liquidity versus regulatory capital? - The company maintains a regulatory capital threshold of $10.5 million and aims to keep cash above $15 million for operational flexibility [18] Question: At what revenue level does the clearing business begin to generate consistent operating leverage? - The operating costs are around $14 million, and once covered, the company expects to achieve significant operating leverage [19][20] Question: What is the expected ramp timeline for new introducing brokerage firms? - The company anticipates that new correspondent clearing clients will onboard quickly, with measurable revenue impacts expected over the next few quarters [21][23] Question: Can you provide an update on the proposed Commercial Bancorp acquisition? - The company is preparing to file its application with the Fed, with expectations for a quicker approval process than initially anticipated [24][25][30]
Flowers Foods(FLO) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-13 14:32
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company produced results at the high end of its 2025 guidance range, but guidance for 2026 reflects ongoing category challenges and inflationary pressures [4] - The expected category decline is around 4%, with an additional 150 basis points of pressure from an extra week in the previous year [28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The traditional loaf segment, particularly the Nature's Own brand, has been underperforming, which is a key focus area for revitalization [9][22] - The company is conducting a comprehensive review of its brand portfolio and supply chain to enhance efficiency and growth [8][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The competitive environment remains stable, with no significant changes in production capabilities among competitors [72] - Price per unit in the category increased slightly, likely due to a shift towards premium products [73] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on navigating near-term challenges while laying the foundation for sustainable long-term growth [4] - A comprehensive review of operations, including brand portfolio and supply chain, is underway to strengthen execution and expand margins [4][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges the challenges posed by inflation and category performance but remains optimistic about the potential for growth in the traditional loaf segment [4][25] - The company is committed to maintaining a strong balance sheet and evaluating capital allocation, including the dividend policy [12][33] Other Important Information - Maintenance CapEx is estimated at around $2 million per bakery per year, with additional investments planned for growth initiatives [56] - The company is optimistic about Simple Mills, expecting double-digit growth in the upcoming year despite some disruptions in Q4 [59] Q&A Session Summary Question: Details on the comprehensive review of brands and operations - Management is in the early stages of a thorough review, focusing on brand support and investment needs, particularly for the Nature's Own brand [8][9] Question: Capital allocation and dividend policy - The company is reviewing its capital structure and dividend policy in light of its overall strategy and financial health [12][33] Question: Stabilizing the traditional loaf market - Management believes there is potential for stabilization and growth in the traditional loaf segment through strategic investments and innovation [22][25] Question: Impact of SNAP budget reductions and debt refinancing - The company is monitoring the effects of reduced SNAP budgets and is confident in its ability to refinance upcoming debt maturities [38][40] Question: Supply chain review and potential bakery consolidation - The review includes evaluating bakery operations and leveraging technology for efficiency, with ongoing assessments of production capabilities [48] Question: Changes in competition and promotional strategies - The competitive landscape remains stable, and the company is cautious with promotional activities, focusing on trial and repurchase rather than volume gains [75]
Flowers Foods(FLO) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-13 14:32
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company produced results at the high end of its 2025 guidance range despite ongoing category challenges and inflationary pressures [4] - The guidance for 2026 reflects a downtrend in the category, with expectations of a 4% decline [28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The traditional loaf segment, particularly the Nature's Own brand, has been underperforming, which is a key focus area for revitalization [9][22] - The company is conducting a comprehensive review of its brand portfolio and supply chain to enhance efficiency and support growth [8][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The competitive environment in the fourth quarter was normal, with no major changes in bakery consolidation reported [72] - Price per unit in the category increased slightly, likely due to a mix shift towards premium products [73] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on navigating near-term challenges while laying the foundation for sustainable long-term growth [4] - A comprehensive review of operations, including brand portfolio and supply chain, is underway to strengthen execution and expand margins [4][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges the challenges posed by inflation and a changing consumer landscape, particularly in the traditional loaf category [4][22] - There is optimism about the potential for growth in the Nature's Own brand, given its high loyalty and awareness [24] Other Important Information - The company remains committed to maintaining a strong balance sheet and is evaluating its capital allocation strategy, including the dividend [12][33] - Maintenance CapEx is expected to be around $2 million per bakery per year, with additional investments planned for growth initiatives [56] Q&A Session Summary Question: Details on the comprehensive review of brands and operations - Management is in the early stages of a thorough review of the brand portfolio and operational efficiency, focusing on areas needing investment [8][10] Question: Capital allocation and dividend considerations - The company is reviewing its capital structure and dividend in light of its overall strategy and financial health [33] Question: Stabilizing the traditional loaf market - Management believes there is a path to stabilize the traditional loaf segment through targeted investments and innovation [24][25] Question: Impact of SNAP budget reductions and debt refinancing - The company is monitoring the effects of reduced SNAP budgets and is confident in its ability to refinance upcoming debt maturities [38][40] Question: Simple Mills sales performance and margin impacts - Sales were affected by inventory issues and input costs, but management remains optimistic about future growth for Simple Mills [59][64] Question: Competitive landscape and promotional strategies - The competitive environment remains stable, with a focus on delivering products that meet consumer demands while managing promotional activities prudently [75][76]
DraftKings(DKNG) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-13 14:32
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4 2025, revenue grew 43% year-over-year to nearly $2 billion, with Adjusted EBITDA reaching $343 million, four times the prior year period [5][14] - Adjusted EBITDA margin expanded by over 1,000 basis points year-over-year to 17% [5][14] - For the fiscal year 2025, revenue increased 27% year-over-year to above $6 billion, and Adjusted EBITDA more than tripled to over $600 million [7][17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fantasy revenue increased as Pick6 began to scale [14] - Sportsbook revenue increased over 30% year-over-year, with a standout Q4 where revenue rose 64% year-over-year to $1.4 billion [15] - iGaming revenue grew by 20% due to expanded offerings [15] - Lottery revenue benefited from a stronger jackpot environment and the rollout of new games [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sportsbook handle increased 11% year-over-year to $54 billion, with a total potential payout across all open wagers of $2.5 trillion [16] - In January, Sportsbook handle increased 4% year-over-year, despite two consecutive months of Sportsbook-friendly outcomes [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on the predictions market as a significant growth opportunity, expecting to capture a $10 billion annual gross revenue opportunity [10] - Plans to integrate Railbird and launch a market-making division to enhance customer experience and liquidity [12][13] - The company aims to lead the predictions category while maintaining strong positions in existing markets [10][11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the growth potential of the predictions market, citing a stable regulatory environment as a key factor [22][23] - The company anticipates continued revenue and Adjusted EBITDA growth for many years, with a focus on customer acquisition and retention [8][17] - Management acknowledged the importance of optimizing promotional spending and improving customer monetization [40][68] Other Important Information - The company repurchased 16 million shares during the fiscal year and plans to remain active in share repurchases as Adjusted EBITDA grows [5][17] - The company reported positive net income for the first time, indicating improved operational efficiency [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Discussion on prediction markets and investment confidence - Management highlighted regulatory clarity from the CFTC as a significant factor in their increased focus on prediction markets, viewing it as a major growth opportunity [22][23] Question: Guidance on revenue deceleration - Management explained that the guidance reflects a conservative approach, with expectations for sports betting handle and promotional strategies factored in [25][26] Question: Competitive environment and promotional intensity - Management characterized the current promotional environment as rational, with no significant uptick in promotional activity from smaller operators [71][86] Question: Customer demographics in prediction markets - Management noted that prediction market players tend to be from states like California and Texas, resembling existing customer profiles [90][91] Question: Impact of promotional spending on revenue - Management indicated that promotional spending would be strategically managed, with flexibility to adjust based on customer acquisition and retention metrics [88][86]