Bank7(BSVN) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-15 15:00
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported strong organic growth in both loan and deposit portfolios, contributing to solid quarterly results [4][5] - The core net interest margin (NIM) ended the quarter at 4.55%, with expectations of slight compression due to potential rate cuts [24][25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan fee income has increased and now represents about 40 basis points of the margin, driven by successful sales efforts and a robust deal market [25][26] - The mortgage business is currently slow, but there is an expectation for improvement in 2026, with a significant increase in the pipeline compared to six months ago [39][41] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is experiencing pressure on the deposit side compared to the loan side, indicating competitive dynamics in the market [14][15] - There is ongoing deal activity in the market, but challenges remain due to macroeconomic factors affecting M&A transactions [44][46] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on maintaining strong capital levels while navigating macroeconomic volatility, which influences credit provisioning decisions [27][29] - The strategic acquisition in the mortgage sector is seen as a niche service that could grow into a more significant income provider over time [41][43] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the current market conditions and the company's positioning, despite acknowledging potential economic challenges [5][6] - There is a cautious outlook on loan growth due to the possibility of lumpy paydowns and macroeconomic uncertainties [12][13] Other Important Information - The company is actively exploring M&A opportunities, although current market conditions present challenges for potential transactions [46][47] - Credit performance remains strong, with no significant migrations in classified loans during the quarter [51] Q&A Session Summary Question: Loan growth outlook for Q4 and 2026 - Management expects high single-digit year-over-year growth, with a good pipeline but acknowledges potential lumpy paydowns [13] Question: Loan pricing dynamics and competition - New loans are slightly below the previous average of 7.4%, with more pressure on deposit pricing than on loans [14][15] Question: M&A activity update - The company is actively looking at various transactions and remains open to strategic combinations [16][17] Question: Net interest margin trajectory - NIM is expected to experience slight compression due to rate cuts, potentially dropping to around 4.47% [24][25] Question: Loan fee income dynamics - The increase in loan fee income is attributed to strong sales performance and a robust deal market, though it may trend back to normal levels [25][26] Question: Credit trends and reserve increases - The decision to increase reserves was based on portfolio growth and macroeconomic volatility, with a focus on maintaining credit integrity [27][29] Question: Expectations around fees and expenses - Core fee income and noninterest expenses are expected to remain stable, with oil and gas revenues being less predictable [35] Question: Mortgage business outlook - The mortgage business is currently slow, but there is hope for improvement in 2026, with a significant increase in the transaction pipeline [39][41] Question: Challenges in M&A today - The overhang of AOCI and long maturity loans are keeping some sellers hesitant, impacting M&A activity [44][46]
Bank7(BSVN) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-15 15:00
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a strong quarter with solid organic growth in both loan and deposit portfolios, contributing to strong capital accumulation and robust capital ratios [3][4] - The core net interest margin for the quarter was reported at 4.55%, with expectations of slight compression to 4.50% due to deposit cost pressures and potential further rate cuts [18][21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan growth was highlighted as a key area of strength, with expectations of high single-digit year-over-year growth continuing into 2026 [9] - Loan fee income has increased significantly, now representing about 40 basis points of the margin, driven by a robust deal market and successful sales efforts [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted that the mortgage business remains slow, with expectations for improvement in 2026, although current conditions are challenging due to high fallout rates and affordability issues [30][31] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is actively pursuing M&A opportunities, although challenges remain due to market conditions and seller expectations [12][33] - The strategic acquisition of a mortgage operation was emphasized as a move to enhance service offerings to high-net-worth clients, with a focus on niche markets [31][32] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the current market conditions and the company's positioning, despite acknowledging macroeconomic uncertainties [3][4] - Concerns regarding credit trends were addressed, with management indicating a cautious approach to provisioning in light of portfolio growth and macro volatility [21][22] Other Important Information - The company highlighted the importance of maintaining strong capital levels and the prudent approach to credit risk management in a volatile environment [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Loan growth outlook for Q4 and 2026 - Management expects high single-digit year-over-year growth in loans, with a good pipeline of activity [9] Question: Loan pricing dynamics and competition - New loans are expected to be priced slightly below 7.4%, with more pressure on deposit pricing than on loans [11] Question: M&A activity update - The company is actively exploring M&A opportunities, with a disciplined approach to potential transactions [12][33] Question: Net interest margin trajectory - A slight decline in net interest margin is anticipated due to deposit cost pressures and rate cuts [18] Question: Credit trends and reserve increases - Credit performance was strong, with a slight increase in reserves due to macroeconomic concerns [21][38] Question: Outlook for fees and expenses - Core fee income is expected to maintain a similar run rate, with oil and gas revenue being less predictable [28] Question: Mortgage business expectations - The mortgage business is currently slow, but there is hope for improvement in 2026, with a stronger pipeline than six months ago [30][31]
First Horizon(FHN) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-15 14:32
First Horizon (NYSE:FHN) Q3 2025 Earnings Call October 15, 2025 09:30 AM ET Company ParticipantsBryan Jordan - Chairman, President, and CEOTyler Craft - Head of Investor RelationsHope Dmuchowski - CFOThomas Hung - Chief Credit OfficerConference Call ParticipantsAndrew Leischner - AnalystTimur Braziler - AnalystBen Gerlinger - AnalystJared Shaw - AnalystJanet Lee - AnalystJon Arfstrom - AnalystNick Holowko - AnalystCasey Haire - AnalystNone - AnalystChristopher Marinac - AnalystAnthony Elian - AnalystModerat ...
First Horizon(FHN) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-15 14:32
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported an adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $0.51, a $0.06 increase from the previous quarter [5] - Adjusted return on tangible common equity increased by 135 basis points to 15% [5] - Net interest income (NII) grew by $33 million, with a 15 basis point expansion of net interest margin to 3.55% [6][5] - Average rate paid on interest-bearing deposits increased to 2.78%, up from 2.76% in the previous quarter [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Period-end loans decreased slightly, with loans to mortgage companies down $132 million, consistent with seasonal trends [7] - The commercial and industrial (CNI) portfolio saw an increase of $174 million quarter over quarter [8] - Fee income increased by $26 million from the prior quarter, driven by improved business conditions [8] - Adjusted expenses increased by $45 million from the previous quarter, primarily due to personnel expenses and outside services [9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Period-end deposit balances decreased by $52 million, driven by a decrease in brokered CDs, but non-interest-bearing deposits increased by $131 million [6] - The company retained approximately 97% of the $29 billion in balances associated with clients who had a repricing event [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on achieving sustainable growth and profitability while maintaining safety and soundness [4] - There is an emphasis on integrating potential mergers and acquisitions (M&A) that align with the company's existing footprint and culture [16] - The company aims to drive additional pre-tax net revenue of over $100 million through efficiency and revenue enhancements [12][16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about growth due to increased client confidence and the potential for further Fed rate cuts [15] - The company is confident in its ability to achieve a sustainable 15% plus adjusted return on tangible common equity [17] - Management noted that the competitive environment for deposits is heating up, and they are focused on retaining existing clients while attracting new ones [6][33] Other Important Information - The company ended the quarter with a Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio of 11%, flat quarter over quarter [10] - Share buybacks accelerated to $190 million, with approximately 8.6 million shares repurchased [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: How optimistic is the company on growth and is there a noticeable change from a quarter ago? - Management noted increased confidence and noticeable changes in client behavior, with pipelines building throughout the quarter [22] Question: What is the outlook for the margin in the fourth quarter? - Management indicated that the margin may stabilize in the high 330s to low 340s, adjusting for one-time items [23] Question: What is driving the decline in core deposits? - Management explained that the industry is experiencing a mix shift, with clients moving funds into brokerage accounts, but they maintain a high retention rate of existing clients [33] Question: What are the company's M&A considerations? - Management emphasized a focus on organic growth but remains open to opportunistic M&A if the right opportunity arises [39][40] Question: How does the company view its capital position and buyback strategy? - Management stated that buybacks will be contingent on loan growth, with a focus on deploying capital effectively [98]
Morgan Stanley(MS) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-15 14:30
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Morgan Stanley reported record revenues of $18.2 billion and earnings per share (EPS) of $2.8 for Q3 2025, with a return on tangible equity (RoTCE) of 23.5% [3][11] - The year-to-date efficiency ratio stood at 69%, indicating strong operational leverage [11] - Total client assets across Wealth and Investment Management increased by $1.3 trillion year-over-year, reaching $8.9 trillion [5][11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Institutional Securities revenues were $8.5 billion, with investment banking revenues increasing to $2.1 billion, marking a year-over-year growth of over 50% [13][14] - Wealth Management achieved record revenues of over $8 billion, with a reported margin of 30.3% [19][21] - Investment Management saw total assets under management (AUM) reach $1.8 trillion, with long-term net inflows of $16.5 billion in the quarter [25][27] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Americas led year-over-year growth in Institutional Securities, with strong performance noted in Asia due to renewed investor appetite [13][14] - The equity underwriting market showed significant activity, with revenues increasing 80% year-over-year to $652 million [15] - Fixed income underwriting revenues were $772 million, driven by higher loan issuance [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Morgan Stanley's strategy focuses on raising, managing, and allocating capital, with an emphasis on maintaining earnings durability and driving growth through investment in technology and integrated services [4][9] - The company is actively investing in its wealth and investment management capabilities, including partnerships in private markets and digital assets [20][24] - The firm aims to reach $10 trillion in total client assets as part of its growth trajectory [10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the sustainability of investment banking trends, citing a favorable regulatory backdrop and a strong pipeline across regions [32][34] - The firm anticipates continued growth in wealth management driven by workplace migration and IPO activity [38][50] - Management acknowledged the potential for net interest income growth despite a declining rate environment, supported by consistent lending balances [95][96] Other Important Information - Morgan Stanley's CET1 capital ratio stands at 15.2%, with excess capital over 300 basis points [7][28] - The firm is committed to returning capital to shareholders through dividends and share buybacks while focusing on organic growth opportunities [73][80] Q&A Session Summary Question: Sustainability of Investment Banking Trends - Management noted that while it is uncertain if a "golden age" in investment banking is upon us, there are positive signs of growth across various industry groups and regions [31][32] Question: Net New Assets Growth in Wealth Management - Management highlighted strong performance across all channels, with significant contributions from workplace migration and IPOs, exceeding previous expectations [34][38] Question: Sustainability of 30% Pretax Margin - Management emphasized the importance of continued investment in the wealth business to maintain and potentially exceed the 30% margin, viewing it as an output of their investment strategy [42][43] Question: AI's Impact on Business - Management discussed various applications of AI to enhance efficiency and productivity across the firm, indicating that they are just beginning to explore its full potential [46][49] Question: Growth Opportunities in Wealth Management - Management acknowledged the potential for growth in private markets and the importance of educating clients about new products, indicating a long-term growth opportunity [50][52] Question: Capital Deployment for Growth - Management reiterated a focus on organic growth through internal investments while remaining open to inorganic opportunities that align with their strategic goals [72][76]
First Horizon(FHN) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-15 14:30
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported an adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $0.51, a $0.06 increase from the previous quarter [5] - Adjusted return on tangible common equity increased by 135 basis points to 15% [5] - Net interest income (NII) grew by $33 million, with a 15 basis point expansion of net interest margin to 3.55% [5][6] - Average rate paid on interest-bearing deposits increased to 2.78%, up from 2.76% in the previous quarter [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The loan portfolio saw a slight decrease, with loans to mortgage companies down $132 million, consistent with seasonal trends [7] - Commercial and industrial (CNI) portfolio increased by $174 million quarter over quarter [8] - Fee income increased by $26 million from the prior quarter, driven by improved business conditions [8] - Adjusted expenses increased by $45 million from the previous quarter, primarily due to personnel expenses and outside services [9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Period-end deposits decreased by $52 million, driven by a $652 million decrease in brokered CDs, but non-interest-bearing deposits increased by $131 million [6] - The company retained approximately 97% of the $29 billion in balances associated with clients who had a repricing event [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to achieve a sustainable 15% plus adjusted return on tangible common equity [12] - Focus on executing initiatives that could generate over $100 million in additional pre-tax net revenue [15] - The company is optimistic about capitalizing on profitable loan growth due to recent Fed rate cuts [14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted increased client confidence and pipeline momentum, despite potential impacts from tariff uncertainties [19] - The company is confident in its ability to integrate a well-structured merger if opportunities arise in 2026 or beyond [15] - The outlook for charge-offs and taxes remains unchanged as the year closes [12] Other Important Information - The company ended the quarter with a Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio of 11%, flat quarter over quarter [10] - Share buybacks accelerated to $190 million, with approximately 8.6 million shares repurchased [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: How optimistic is the company on growth, and is there a noticeable change from a quarter ago? - Management noted a noticeable increase in client confidence and pipeline momentum, with lower rates contributing positively [19] Question: What is the expected margin for the fourth quarter? - The CFO indicated that the margin would likely be in the high 330s to low 340s, adjusting for one-time items [20] Question: What is driving the decline in core deposits? - Management explained that the industry is experiencing a shrinkage in deposits, with a focus on retaining existing clients and attracting new ones [28] Question: What are the company's M&A considerations? - Management emphasized a focus on organic growth but acknowledged the potential for opportunistic M&A if suitable opportunities arise [34][41] Question: How does the company plan to achieve the 15% ROCI target? - The strategy includes reducing capital, normalizing credit costs, and leveraging existing client relationships for revenue growth [66]
Abbott(ABT) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-15 14:02
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported organic sales growth of 7.5% excluding COVID test sales, with earnings per share rising to $1.30, reflecting high single-digit growth compared to last year [6][7][16] - Adjusted earnings per share of $1.30 was in line with consensus estimates, and foreign exchange had a favorable year-over-year impact of 1.4% on third quarter sales [16][17] - Adjusted gross margin was 55.8% of sales, reflecting a decrease due to tariffs, while adjusted operating margin increased by 40 basis points to 23% of sales [16][17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Nutrition sales increased by 4%, driven by a 10% growth in international markets, particularly in adult nutrition products like Ensure and Glucerna [8][9] - Diagnostics saw modest sales growth excluding COVID testing, with core lab diagnostics growing 7% outside of China, while point-of-care diagnostics grew by 8% [9][10] - Established Pharmaceuticals (EPD) sales increased by 7%, led by double-digit growth in key markets, with strong contributions from therapeutic areas like gastroenterology and cardiometabolic [10][11] - Medical devices experienced a 12.5% sales growth, driven by double-digit growth in diabetes care and cardiac rhythm management [11][12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. diagnostics market grew by 10%, while Europe saw growth of 6% to 7%, and Latin America grew in the mid-teens [46][47] - In China, the company faced headwinds from VBP pricing dynamics, but growth in other segments like EPD and nutrition remained strong, with overall growth in China around 5% to 7% when excluding diagnostics [65][66] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to sustain high single-digit organic sales growth and double-digit EPS growth, supported by new product launches and easing headwinds from diagnostics [20][25] - Investments in innovation and a robust pipeline are expected to drive future growth, with nearly 200 clinical trials planned for next year [24][25] - The company is focused on expanding its market share in key segments, including diabetes care and cardiac rhythm management, with new product launches like Volt and dual analyte sensors [22][38] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in meeting consensus estimates for 2026, citing underlying momentum in the current portfolio and new product launches as key growth drivers [20][21] - The company anticipates a recovery in the diagnostics business as headwinds from China moderate and new products are rolled out [48] - Management highlighted the importance of addressing barriers to CGM penetration in the basal segment and emphasized ongoing efforts to increase awareness among primary care physicians [78][80] Other Important Information - Recent product launches contributed nearly half a billion dollars in sales this quarter, adding over 100 basis points to organic sales growth [8] - The company is advancing its biosimilars strategy, with several regulatory approvals expected in the near future [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: Thoughts on 2026 sales and EPS consensus - Management is comfortable with the consensus estimates for 2026, expecting continued growth driven by product momentum and easing headwinds [20] Question: U.S. diabetes growth dynamics - U.S. diabetes care grew 19%, with expectations for strong growth next year driven by new product launches [29][32] Question: Diagnostics business headwinds - Management acknowledged challenges in the diagnostics segment due to VBP in China but expects a recovery as these headwinds moderate [44][48] Question: Cardiac rhythm management growth - The cardiac rhythm management segment is experiencing significant growth, with expectations for continued market share gains [67][69] Question: Structural heart market outlook - Management is optimistic about the structural heart market, particularly with upcoming product launches and competitive advancements [75][76]
Abbott(ABT) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-15 14:02
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported organic sales growth of 7.5% excluding COVID test sales, with earnings per share rising to $1.30, reflecting high single-digit growth compared to last year [6][7][16] - Adjusted gross margin was 55.8% of sales, showing a decrease from the prior year due to tariffs, while adjusted operating margin increased by 40 basis points to 23% of sales [16][52] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Nutrition sales increased by 4%, driven by a 10% growth in international markets, particularly in the adult nutrition segment [8][9] - Diagnostics experienced modest sales growth excluding COVID testing, with core lab diagnostics growing 7% outside of China [9][10] - Established Pharmaceuticals (EPD) sales increased by 7%, led by double-digit growth in key markets [10] - Medical devices saw a 12.5% sales growth, with significant contributions from diabetes care and electrophysiology [11][12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. diagnostics market grew by 10%, while Europe saw growth of 6% to 7%, and Latin America experienced mid-teens growth [46] - In China, the company faced challenges due to VBP pricing dynamics, but growth in other segments remained stable, with a projected growth rate of 5% to 7% excluding diagnostics [65][66] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to sustain high single-digit organic sales growth and double-digit EPS growth, supported by new product launches and a strong existing portfolio [20][25] - Investments in innovation and clinical trials are expected to drive future growth, with nearly 200 clinical trials planned for next year [24][25] - The company is focused on expanding its market share in key segments, including diabetes care and cardiac rhythm management [68][69] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in meeting consensus estimates for 2026, citing underlying momentum in the current portfolio and easing headwinds from diagnostics [20][21] - The company anticipates a recovery in the diagnostics business, particularly outside of China, and expects to see improved performance in 2026 [48][66] Other Important Information - Recent product launches contributed nearly half a billion dollars in sales this quarter, enhancing organic sales growth [8] - The company is advancing its biosimilars strategy, with several regulatory approvals expected in the near future [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: Thoughts on next year's sales and EPS consensus - Management is comfortable with the consensus estimates for 2026, expecting continued growth driven by product momentum and easing headwinds [20][21] Question: Insights on diabetes growth in the U.S. and internationally - U.S. diabetes care grew 19%, with expectations for strong growth next year driven by new product launches [29][31] Question: Updates on the diagnostics business and recovery expectations - Management noted that while challenges remain in China, the diagnostics business outside of China is expected to accelerate, with a recovery anticipated next year [46][48] Question: Performance of the electrophysiology franchise - The electrophysiology segment is experiencing double-digit growth, with positive feedback on new products like the Volt catheter [35][36] Question: Outlook for the cardiac rhythm management market - The dual chamber leadless pacemaker market is expected to grow significantly, with current penetration rates indicating substantial room for growth [68][69] Question: Update on structural heart and left atrial appendage closure - Management is optimistic about future growth in left atrial appendage closure, with new product trials expected to yield positive results [74][75]
Citizens Financial (CFG) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-15 14:02
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported EPS growth of $0.13 sequentially, or 14% [4] - Net Interest Income (NII) grew by 3.5% sequentially, driven by a 5 basis point expansion in Net Interest Margin (NIM) [4][10] - Fee growth was 5% compared to Q2, with a record performance in capital markets [4][12] - The Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio increased by 10 basis points to 10.7% [4][18] - The company achieved a positive operating leverage of 3% with expense growth held to just 1% [4][9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The private bank saw a significant increase in deposits, growing by $3.8 billion to $12.5 billion, surpassing the year-end target of $12 billion [5][19] - The private bank contributed $0.08 to EPS this quarter, up from $0.06 in the prior quarter [11] - Capital markets delivered a record third quarter, with strong performance across all categories [10][13] - The wealth business achieved record advisory fees due to strong inflows and market appreciation [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Average deposits increased by 1%, driven by growth in the private bank and commercial sectors [16] - Non-interest-bearing balances rose by about $1.5 billion or 4%, maintaining a steady mix at 22% of the total deposits [16] - Net charge-offs decreased to 46 basis points from 48 basis points in the prior quarter, indicating favorable credit trends [17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on executing strategic initiatives, particularly in the private bank and private wealth sectors, aiming for superior organic EPS growth relative to peers [8][18] - The "Reimagine the Bank" initiative is underway, with expectations for net benefits to positively impact results starting in 2027 [6][22] - The company aims to build a top-performing bank by enhancing customer service and operational efficiency [9][22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in sustaining momentum into 2026, despite macroeconomic uncertainties [8][25] - The outlook for Q4 includes continued attractive earnings growth, driven by positive operating leverage and favorable credit trends [8][24] - The company remains focused on executing its strategic agenda while navigating a dynamic environment [25] Other Important Information - The Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.46, reflecting a 9.5% increase [9] - The company executed $75 million in stock buybacks during the quarter [10][18] - The private bank is expected to double its contribution to the bottom line within the next three years [51] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expected margin trajectory - Management forecasts a margin of $305 for Q4, with a medium-term target of $325-$350, influenced by various factors including asset sensitivity and pricing spreads [30][32] Question: Role of M&A in the company's future - The company is focused on organic growth through the private bank and does not foresee significant M&A activity unless high-value opportunities arise [34][35] Question: Private bank outlook and AUM targets - Management is confident in achieving deposit growth but acknowledges that AUM targets may depend on the timing of liftouts [42][44] Question: Sensitivity of Fed funds to margin - Management has layered in hedges to protect against aggressive Fed cuts, maintaining a balanced view on interest rate risks [54][62] Question: Cost-saving opportunities related to "Reimagine the Bank" - The company is exploring various cost-saving measures, including vendor simplification and optimizing branch networks, to fund investments [63][67]
Abbott(ABT) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-10-15 14:00
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported organic sales growth of 7.5%, excluding COVID test sales, with earnings per share rising to $1.3, reflecting high single-digit growth compared to last year [6][7][18] - Adjusted gross margin was 55.8% of sales, reflecting a decrease due to tariffs, while adjusted operating margin increased by 40 basis points to 23% [19][18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Nutrition sales increased by 4%, driven by adult nutrition, particularly in international markets with a 10% growth [8][9] - Diagnostics experienced modest sales growth, with core lab diagnostics growing 7% excluding China, while point of care diagnostics grew by 8% [10][11] - Established Pharmaceuticals (EPD) sales increased by 7%, led by double-digit growth in key markets [12] - Medical Devices sales grew by 12.5%, with significant contributions from diabetes care and electrophysiology [12][16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - International markets for adult nutrition saw a 10% growth, while the U.S. diagnostics market grew by 10% [9][59] - The European diagnostics market grew by 6-7%, and Latin America experienced mid-teens growth [61] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to sustain high single-digit organic sales growth and double-digit EPS growth, focusing on new product launches and addressing headwinds in diagnostics [24][27] - Investments in clinical trials and product launches are expected to drive future growth, with a commitment to maintaining a robust pipeline [27][28] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in meeting consensus estimates for 2026, citing underlying momentum in the current portfolio and easing headwinds from diagnostics [22][24] - The company anticipates a recovery in the diagnostics business, particularly outside of China, with expectations for mid to high single-digit growth next year [58][62] Other Important Information - The company is advancing its biosimilar strategy and has made progress in regulatory approvals for several products [12] - The management highlighted the importance of maintaining a full portfolio to drive growth across various segments [50] Q&A Session Summary Question: Thoughts on 2026 sales and EPS consensus - Management is comfortable with the consensus estimates for 2026, expecting to deliver similar growth rates as in 2025 [22][24] Question: U.S. diabetes growth dynamics - U.S. diabetes care grew by 19%, with expectations for continued strong growth driven by new product launches [32][35] Question: Drivers of diagnostics business recovery - Management noted that while challenges remain in China, growth outside of China is accelerating, with expectations for a recovery in the diagnostics business [58][62] Question: Structural heart market outlook - Management acknowledged the importance of left atrial appendage closure and is optimistic about future growth in this area [96][100] Question: Barriers to CGM penetration in the U.S. - Management identified the need for increased awareness and coverage among primary care physicians as barriers to higher CGM penetration [101][106]