Howard Hughes Holdings (NYSE:HHH) M&A Announcement December 18, 2025 09:50 AM ET Company ParticipantsDavid O'Reilly - CEORyan Israel - CIODimitrios Pavlou - ProfessorMarcelo Lima - Managing PartnerBill Ackman - Executive ChairmanConference Call ParticipantsNone - Analyst 9None - Analyst 16None - Analyst 19None - Analyst 18None - Analyst 17None - Analyst 8None - Analyst 13None - Analyst 7None - Analyst 14None - Analyst 11None - Analyst 10None - Analyst 15None - Analyst 12Bill AckmanOkay, we are shortly going ...

CarMax (NYSE:KMX) Q3 2026 Earnings Call December 18, 2025 09:00 AM ET Company ParticipantsJon Daniels - EVP of CarMax Auto FinanceTom Folliard - Interim Executive Chair of the BoardEnrique Mayor-Mora - EVP and CFOMichael Montani - Managing DirectorSharon Zackfia - Group Head of ConsumerDavid Lowenstein - VP of Investor RelationsDaniela Haigian - VP of Equity ResearchDavid McCreight - Interim President and CEOJeff Lick - Managing DirectorConference Call ParticipantsJohn Babcock - Equity AnalystBrian Nagel - ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total sales for the third quarter were $5.8 billion, down 6.9% year-over-year, reflecting lower volume [15] - Retail unit sales declined by 8%, with used unit comps down 9% [15] - Average selling price increased to $26,400, a year-over-year increase of $230 per unit [15] - Net earnings per diluted share were $0.43, down from $0.81 a year ago, impacted by $0.08 of restructuring expenses [16] - Total gross profit was $590 million, down 13% from the previous year [16] - SG&A expenses were $581 million, up 1% from the prior year [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Used retail margin decreased by 11% to $379 million, driven by lower volume and profit per used unit of $2,235 [16] - Wholesale vehicle margin decreased by 17% to $115 million, with gross profit per unit down approximately $120 year-over-year [17] - CarMax Auto Finance (CAF) income was $175 million, up 9% over last year [17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company purchased approximately 238,000 vehicles during the quarter, down 12% from last year [16] - The average wholesale selling price declined by $40 per unit to $8,100 [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on narrowing the price gap with the broader marketplace by lowering margins and increasing marketing spend [10][12] - A renewed emphasis on customer experience and digital selling capabilities is being prioritized to drive conversion and improve customer satisfaction [11][25] - The company aims to reduce SG&A expenses by at least $150 million by the end of fiscal year 2027 [18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges that recent results have been unacceptable and emphasizes the need for immediate change [5][10] - There is optimism that immediate pricing and marketing actions will improve sales performance, although they may pressure earnings in the near term [13][19] - The company believes it has the necessary attributes for a successful turnaround and is committed to strengthening performance [14][25] Other Important Information - The board is actively searching for a permanent CEO who can drive sales and maximize the benefits of the omnichannel experience [6][7] - The company is committed to leveraging technological platforms and process enhancements to reduce costs [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide insight on the GPU reset expected in February? - Management indicated that margin reductions will be meaningful and are optimistic about improving retail sales trends [30] Question: Are there customer cohorts where CarMax has become less competitive? - Management noted a loss of volume in the higher FICO segments and is focused on recapturing that market [31][32] Question: What is the baseline SG&A for the $150 million reduction goal? - The baseline SG&A is approximately $2.5 billion, with reductions compared to last year [47][48] Question: What is the strategy for reducing COGS? - The company is focused on COGS reduction through initiatives like regional reconditioning centers and improved parts selection tools [79][80] Question: What is the outlook for service margins? - Service margins are under pressure, with expectations of being slightly profitable or unprofitable for the full year depending on sales performance [93][94]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a 6.9% year-over-year increase in revenues to $608 million, with organic growth of 6% excluding foreign exchange and M&A impacts [23][29] - Adjusted operating margin was 36.2%, and adjusted diluted EPS increased by 3% year on year to $4.51 [6][24] - Organic ASV growth accelerated to 5.9%, an increase of $6.6 million, driven by strong demand across various sectors [20][29] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the Americas, organic ASV grew 6%, primarily driven by asset managers and wealth, with increased demand for portfolio lifecycle solutions and AI-ready data [20] - EMEA saw a 4% organic ASV growth, with higher expansion in performance solutions, offsetting some softness in asset owners [20] - Asia-Pacific experienced an 8% organic ASV growth, up from 7% last quarter, driven by middle office solutions and AI-ready data [21] - Wealth management delivered a 10% organic ASV growth, with significant wins in workstations and analytics [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Client count grew to over 9,000, a 9% year-over-year increase, with retention rates remaining healthy at 91% for clients and above 95% for ASV [23] - The user base approached 240,000, with wealth and asset managers leading user growth, up 10% compared to the prior year [23] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is increasing its share repurchase authorization from $400 million to $1 billion, reflecting confidence in its balance sheet and intrinsic share value [7][28] - Three strategic priorities were outlined: driving commercial excellence, improving productivity, and solidifying long-term strategy for sustainable growth [14][18] - The company is focusing on enhancing its data universe, deepening client workflows, and modernizing core infrastructure to drive operational efficiency [26][27] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the strength of the pipeline and positive sentiment from clients, indicating a strong demand for new data products [62] - There is a belief that AI will amplify the company's essential offerings rather than replace them, with AI product adoption growing over 45% sequentially [14][68] - Management remains prudent in guidance, emphasizing the importance of executing well in the market while maintaining a strong pipeline [78] Other Important Information - Operating expenses increased by 9% year over year, driven by higher people-related expenses and technology costs [24] - The company is committed to returning capital to shareholders, having returned $554 million over the last 12 months through dividends and buybacks [28] Q&A Session Summary Question: Competitive positioning against AI startups and Big Four data incumbents - Management expressed confidence in proprietary assets and the ability to partner with the AI ecosystem, emphasizing the demand for secure AI solutions [34][36] Question: Changes in sales incentives and early results - Management highlighted renewed vigor in new business development and faster sales motions due to aligned incentives and the resonance of AI products [41][42] Question: Impact of AI on customer headcount and desktop business - Management noted no significant reductions in headcount, with increased hiring in banking and strong demand for AI products [50][51] Question: Margin impact from investments - Management discussed balancing structural investments for operating leverage with growth investments aligned to client demand [71][74] Question: Organic ASV growth expectations - Management remains confident in the pipeline but is taking a prudent approach to guidance, acknowledging the significant business still to be acquired [78][79] Question: Proprietary versus non-proprietary products - Management provided a detailed breakdown of proprietary and enriched data, emphasizing the high quality and client loyalty associated with their offerings [81][84]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a 6.9% year-over-year increase in revenues to $608 million, with organic growth of 6% excluding foreign exchange and M&A impacts [21][27] - Adjusted operating margin was 36.2%, and adjusted diluted EPS increased by 3% year-over-year to $4.51 [4][21] - Organic ASV growth accelerated to 5.9%, an increase of $6.6 million, driven primarily by expansion with existing clients [17][21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the Americas, organic ASV grew 6%, driven by asset managers and wealth, with increased demand for portfolio lifecycle solutions and AI-ready data [18] - EMEA saw a 4% organic ASV growth, with higher expansion in performance solutions offsetting some softness in asset owners [18] - Asia-Pacific experienced an 8% organic ASV growth, up from 7% last quarter, driven by middle office solutions and AI-ready data [19] - Wealth management delivered a 10% organic ASV growth, with significant wins in workstations and analytics [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Client count grew to over 9,000, a 9% year-over-year increase, with retention rates remaining healthy at 91% for clients and above 95% for ASV [21] - The user base approached 240,000, with wealth and asset managers leading user growth, up 10% versus the prior year [21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is increasing its share repurchase authorization from $400 million to $1 billion, reflecting confidence in its balance sheet and intrinsic value [6][26] - Three strategic priorities include driving commercial excellence, improving productivity, and solidifying long-term strategy for sustainable growth [12][15] - The company is focused on enhancing its data offerings, modernizing technology infrastructure, and improving client workflows to drive future growth [23][25] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the strength of the pipeline and positive client sentiment, indicating a strong demand for new data products [61] - The company is seeing increased hiring in banking, driven by a recovery in M&A activity, and is not currently observing reductions in headcount [49][60] - Management is maintaining a prudent approach to guidance, reaffirming previously issued FY26 guidance across all metrics [27][70] Other Important Information - Operating expenses increased by 9% year-over-year, driven by higher people-related expenses and technology costs [22] - The company is allocating roughly two-thirds of its investments to growth and one-third to internal infrastructure [23][25] - The company has returned $554 million to shareholders over the last 12 months through dividends and buybacks [26] Q&A Session Summary Question: Competitive positioning against AI startups and Big Four data incumbents - Management expressed confidence in proprietary assets and emphasized the strength of their data and analytics capabilities, viewing partnerships with the AI ecosystem as complementary [30][32][35] Question: Changes in sales incentives and early results - Management highlighted renewed vigor in new business development and faster sales motions, aided by AI product resonance [38][40] Question: Future hiring picture and AI efficiencies - Management noted no current reductions in headcount, with increased hiring observed, particularly in banking, and strong growth in AI product usage [46][49] Question: Margin impact from investments - Management indicated that investments are aimed at foundational elements and targeted growth areas, expecting benefits to play out in future years [51][54] Question: Organic ASV growth expectations - Management remains confident in the strength of the pipeline but is taking a prudent approach to guidance, anticipating potential deceleration in growth [70] Question: Proprietary versus non-proprietary products - Management clarified that 40% of the business is linked to client proprietary data, with 50% classified as proprietary and enriched data and tools [72][74]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total sales for the third quarter were $5.8 billion, down 6.9% year-over-year, reflecting lower volume [12] - Retail unit sales declined by 8%, with used unit comps down 9% [12] - Average selling price increased to $26,400, a year-over-year increase of $230 per unit [13] - Net earnings per diluted share were $0.43, down from $0.81 a year ago, impacted by $0.08 of restructuring expenses [14] - Total gross profit was $590 million, down 13% from the previous year [15] - SG&A expenses were $581 million, up 1% from the prior year, driven by marketing investments and restructuring expenses [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Used retail margin decreased by 11% to $379 million, with profit per used unit at $2,235, down approximately $70 from last year's record high [15] - Wholesale vehicle margin decreased by 17% to $115 million, with gross profit per unit declining by approximately $120 year-over-year [15] - CarMax Auto Finance income increased by 9% to $175 million, supported by underwriting and pricing adjustments [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company purchased approximately 238,000 vehicles during the quarter, down 12% from last year [14] - The average wholesale selling price declined by $40 per unit to $8,100 [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on narrowing the price gap between its offerings and the marketplace, lowering margins, and increasing marketing spend [8][10] - A renewed emphasis on customer experience and digital selling capabilities is being prioritized to drive conversion and improve customer satisfaction [9][10] - The company aims to reduce SG&A expenses by at least $150 million by the end of fiscal year 2027 [16] - The board is actively searching for a permanent CEO who can drive sales and strengthen the brand [5][6] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged that recent results have been unacceptable and emphasized the need for immediate change [4][5] - There is optimism that immediate pricing and marketing actions will improve sales performance, although they may pressure earnings in the near term [11] - The company believes it has the necessary attributes for a successful turnaround and is committed to strengthening performance [11][23] Other Important Information - The company is undergoing leadership changes, with an interim CEO and chair in place while searching for a permanent CEO [4][5] - The company is committed to transparency about its progress and performance [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the magnitude of the GPU reset expected in the February quarter? - Management indicated that margin reductions will be meaningful and are optimistic about improving retail sales trends [28][29] Question: Are there specific customer cohorts where CarMax has become less competitive? - Management noted a loss of volume in the higher FICO segments and is focused on recapturing those customers [30][31] Question: Will CarMax adjust interest rates to be more competitive? - Management stated they monitor market rates and will adjust accordingly, focusing on the overall offering rather than just interest rates [32][33] Question: What is the baseline SG&A from which the company expects to cut $150 million? - The baseline SG&A is approximately $2.5 billion, with reductions compared to last year [46][47] Question: What is the strategy for reducing COGS? - The company is focused on COGS reduction through initiatives like regional reconditioning centers and improved parts selection tools [78][79] Question: How is the board approaching the search for a new CEO? - The board is looking for a leader with experience in complex businesses and digital transformation, with urgency in the search process [96]

2026 Budget & Guidance - Development capital expenditures are budgeted between $180 million and $190 million[10] - The company forecasts average production between 39,000 and 41,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boe/d)[10] - Oil and liquids are expected to comprise approximately 81% of the production mix[10] - Adjusted Funds Flow (AFF) is projected to be between $325 million and $375 million, or $1.75 to $2.00 per share[10] - Free Funds Flow (FFF) is forecasted between $120 million and $170 million, or $0.65 to $0.95 per share, resulting in a free funds flow yield of 25% to 35%[10] - Net debt at the end of 2026 is estimated to be between $645 million and $695 million, with a net debt to adjusted EBITDA ratio of 1.4x to 1.7x[10] Sensitivity Analysis - A $5.00 change in WTI oil price is expected to impact AFF by approximately $50 million[13] - A 1,000 barrel per day change in oil production is projected to impact AFF by approximately $25 million[13] - A $0.01 change in the CAD/USD exchange rate is expected to impact AFF by approximately $8 million[13] - A $0.50 change in AECO gas price is projected to impact AFF by approximately $3 million[13] Development Program Highlights - Approximately 33% of the 2026 development capital is allocated to Open Hole Multi-Lateral (OHML) locations in Southeast Saskatchewan (SE SK)[9, 15] - The company plans for 32 OHML locations in 2026 and has identified over 300 OHML locations in SE SK[15] - The company plans for 23 conventional wells[19]

Financial Performance - Total revenue for fiscal year 2025 was $158.2 million, compared to $112.1 million in fiscal year 2024[31] - The net loss for fiscal year 2025 was $(191.4) million, compared to $(156.8) million in fiscal year 2024[31] - Adjusted EBITDA for fiscal year 2025 was $(74.4) million, compared to $(101.1) million in fiscal year 2024[31] - The company ended fiscal year 2025 with $341.8 million in total cash, restricted cash, and cash equivalents[10] - Backlog as of October 31, 2025, was $1.16 billion, compared to $1.19 billion as of October 31, 2024[34] Operational Highlights - The company is operating at a 41 MW per year annualized production rate as of October 31, 2025[10, 28] - The Torrington, CT factory has the potential to accommodate an estimated annualized production capacity of up to 350 MW per year with additional capital investments[10, 26] - The company commissioned 22 1.4-MW replacement fuel cell modules in fiscal year 2025 and expects to commission 14 more in fiscal year 2026 for Gyeonggi Green Energy (GGE)[39] Strategic Focus - The company is focusing on a data center strategy, leveraging AI-driven demand for new opportunities[9] - The company's systems do not require utility interconnection when operating in off-grid mode and are a durable baseload alternative[12] - The company emphasizes potential margin expansion through higher production utilization and sustained cost discipline in fiscal year 2026[10]

Summary of Trump Media & Technology Group and TAE Technologies Merger Conference Call Industry and Companies Involved - **Companies**: Trump Media & Technology Group (TMTG) and TAE Technologies - **Industry**: Fusion Power and Technology Core Points and Arguments 1. **Merger Announcement**: TMTG and TAE Technologies are planning a merger that is expected to create significant value for shareholders of both companies [2][5] 2. **Fusion Power Significance**: The merger aims to establish the first publicly traded fusion power company, which is anticipated to be a major breakthrough in energy production, providing reliable, cost-effective, and carbon-free electricity [3][4] 3. **Financial Position**: TMTG has accumulated over $3 billion in financial assets as of Q3 2025, which will be utilized to advance TAE's fusion technology [4] 4. **Transaction Structure**: The merger is structured as an all-stock transaction valued at over $6 billion, with TMTG shareholders expected to own approximately 50% of the combined company [5][6] 5. **Leadership and Governance**: The combined company will have co-CEOs, Devin Nunes and Dr. Michael Benevides, and a nine-person board including independent members [5][6] 6. **Investment Commitment**: TMTG will invest up to $200 million into TAE and an additional $100 million upon filing a Form S-4 with the SEC to accelerate TAE's objectives [8] 7. **Timeline for Development**: The first utility-scale fusion power plant is expected to be sited by the end of 2026, with plans for future plants in the 350-500 megawatt range [7][9] 8. **Funding and Support**: TAE has raised over $1.3 billion in private capital from notable investors, including Google and Chevron, which underscores the confidence in its research and technology [9] Other Important Information 1. **Regulatory and Shareholder Approval**: The merger is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory and shareholder approvals, with ongoing transparency throughout the process [5][11] 2. **Focus on American Innovation**: The partnership emphasizes a mission centered on American innovation and global energy leadership, aiming to lead the transition toward sustainable power [11] 3. **Technological Differentiation**: TAE's approach combines plasma physics and accelerator physics, which is seen as a key factor in achieving utility-scale fusion power [8]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a revenue growth of 6.9% year over year, reaching $608 million, with organic growth of 6% excluding foreign exchange and M&A impacts [22][27] - Adjusted operating margin was 36.2%, and adjusted diluted EPS increased by 3% year on year to $4.51 [4][22] - Organic ASV growth accelerated to 5.9%, an increase of $6.6 million, driven by strong demand in trading, workstations, and market data [18][22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the Americas, organic ASV grew 6%, primarily driven by asset managers and wealth [18] - EMEA saw a 4% organic ASV growth, with improved retention and expansion in performance solutions [18] - Asia-Pacific experienced an 8% organic ASV growth, up from 7% last quarter, driven by middle office solutions and AI-ready data [19] - Wealth management delivered a 10% organic ASV growth, with significant wins in workstations and analytics [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Client count grew to over 9,000, a 9% increase year over year, with retention rates at 91% for clients and above 95% for ASV [22] - The user base approached 240,000, with wealth and asset managers leading user growth, up 10% versus the prior year [22] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is increasing its share repurchase authorization from $400 million to $1 billion, reflecting confidence in its balance sheet and long-term growth potential [5][26] - Three strategic priorities include driving commercial excellence, improving productivity, and solidifying long-term strategy for sustainable growth [12][17] - The company is focused on enhancing its data offerings and integrating AI capabilities to maintain competitive differentiation [10][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the strength of the pipeline and client demand, indicating a positive sentiment in the market [46][48] - The company is maintaining a prudent approach to guidance, reaffirming previously issued FY26 guidance across all metrics [27][56] - There is an expectation of continued growth in AI product adoption, with a reported sequential growth of over 45% in AI products launched earlier this year [12][51] Other Important Information - Operating expenses increased by 9% year over year, driven by higher people-related expenses and technology costs [23][24] - The company is allocating roughly two-thirds of its investments to growth initiatives and one-third to internal infrastructure [24][25] Q&A Session Summary Question: Competitive positioning versus AI startups and Big Four data incumbents - Management emphasized confidence in proprietary assets and the ability to partner with the AI ecosystem, viewing distribution through various channels as complementary [29][30] Question: Changes in sales incentives and early results - Management highlighted alignment of sales incentives with desired outcomes, leading to faster sales motions and a richer pipeline [33][34] Question: AI's impact on customer hiring and desktop business - Management noted no significant reductions in headcount, with increased hiring observed in banking and strong demand for AI products [37][39] Question: Margin impact from investments - Management discussed the balance between structural investments for operating leverage and growth investments aligned with client demand [52][54] Question: Organic ASV growth expectations - Management expressed confidence in the pipeline but maintained a conservative approach to guidance, acknowledging the need for prudent execution [55][56] Question: Proprietary versus non-proprietary products - Management provided insights into the classification of proprietary data and the importance of proprietary methodologies in delivering high-quality outputs [57][59]