Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported Q4 AFFO per share of $0.45, with full-year AFFO at $1.78 per share, reflecting a 2.9% growth over 2024 [22] - Q4 cash rental income was $67.5 million, representing an 11.1% growth compared to the same quarter last year [23] - Annualized cash-based rent at quarter end was $264.2 million, with a weighted average five-year annual cash rent escalator of 1.5% [23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4, the company acquired 30 properties for $95 million at a blended cap rate of 7%, marking a 20 basis point expansion over the previous quarter [12] - For the full year 2025, the company acquired 105 properties for $318 million at a blended cap rate of 6.8% [12][13] - The company maintained a strong portfolio occupancy rate of 99.6%, with 95% of leases expiring in 2025 remaining occupied [24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has diversified its tenant base, with 37% of rents coming from sectors outside casual dining, including automotive service (13%), quick service restaurants (11%), and medical retail (10%) [9] - The company sidestepped major tenant credit issues, reporting 0 bad debt expense in 2020 and 2025 [5] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company focuses on acquiring high-quality real estate occupied by creditworthy tenants, emphasizing a conservative capital allocation strategy [3][4] - The company is expanding into new sectors such as grocery and equipment rental, while maintaining a cautious approach to ensure alignment with existing underwriting criteria [15][16] - The company aims to leverage its strong balance sheet and low leverage to capitalize on acquisition opportunities in 2026 [11][19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the quality of their real estate and the ability to re-tenant properties, particularly in light of recent tenant brand changes [8] - The company anticipates a strong year in 2026, supported by favorable debt capital markets and a robust pipeline of acquisition opportunities [11][76] Other Important Information - The company has no debt maturities until December 2026, providing a stable financial outlook [21] - The company reported a cash G&A expense of $18 million for the year, at the bottom of its guidance range [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the market for United Rentals and industrial outdoor storage? - Management noted that the sector is attractive due to the value in land residuals and the presence of creditworthy tenants, with a large addressable market [28] Question: What is the status of the Bahama Breeze properties? - Management confirmed that several properties will be converted to other Darden brands, with high interest from potential new tenants for the remaining locations [32][38] Question: How does the company view its leverage strategy? - Management indicated that they are disciplined in capital allocation and have ample liquidity for acquisitions without approaching their leverage ceiling [50] Question: What is the company's exposure to Red Lobster? - Management stated that Red Lobster is performing better under new ownership, with stores predominantly under a master lease affirmed at the same rent [45] Question: What is the company's approach to diversification? - Management emphasized a balanced approach, avoiding sectors that have not proven resilient through cycles, while focusing on high-quality, creditworthy tenants [46]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted earnings for the full year were $38.8 million or $0.95 per share, and for the fourth quarter, they were $11.6 million or $0.28 per share [11] - EBITDA for the quarter was $27 million and for the year was $95 million, highlighting strong operating leverage [13] - The cash break-even rate was reported at $11,700 per day, or $10,800 per day excluding CapEx, indicating effective cost management [10][23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - MR tankers earned $25,300 per day in Q4 and $29,100 per day in Q1 2026, with 50% booked [10] - Chemical tankers earned $19,900 per day in Q4 and $20,800 per day in Q1 2026, with 30% booked [10] - The company maintained a strong spot market exposure of 82% while also securing high-quality fixed-rate time charters [11][29] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The dislocation of oil refineries is driving longer voyage lengths and increased ton-mile demand, positively impacting earnings [15] - Geopolitical disruptions, such as sanctions on Russian oil, are reshaping trade routes and benefiting compliant fleets [16] - The aging MR fleet is expected to lead to increased scrapping, providing buoyancy to the market by reducing supply [18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Ardmore's strategy focuses on capturing opportunities in refined oil products and complex chemical cargoes, leveraging a fully integrated trading platform [21] - The company emphasizes innovation and performance, with ongoing investments in efficiency upgrades and AI-driven voyage optimization tools [22][24] - Ardmore aims to maintain best-in-class corporate governance and a disciplined capital allocation policy to create long-term value [25][38] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted favorable underlying market conditions and a robust earnings environment, with TCE performance reflecting continued strength [9] - The geopolitical landscape is creating complexities but also opportunities for nimble operators like Ardmore [53] - The company is committed to maintaining financial flexibility to navigate uncertainties and capitalize on market shifts [55] Other Important Information - Ardmore completed a major dry docking cycle with significant performance upgrades, enhancing fleet capabilities [11][26] - The company has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.09 per share, consistent with its policy of returning one-third of adjusted earnings to shareholders [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: Future capital allocation considering rising asset values - Management indicated a non-binary approach to capital allocation, balancing between growth and maintaining a strong fleet [60] Question: Thoughts on the new building market for MRs - Management has not participated in the new building market since 2013, focusing instead on the second-hand market for value [63] Question: Clarification on AI returns - AI investments are viewed with caution, focusing on adoption rather than development, ensuring guaranteed returns with minimal CapEx [67]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted EBITDA for Q4 2025 was $285 million, a 4% increase year-over-year, driven by higher gathering and compression volumes [5] - Free cash flow after dividends for Q4 2025 was $85 million, contributing to a leverage reduction to 2.7x and approximately $48 million in share repurchases [5] - For the full year 2025, free cash flow after dividends reached a record $325 million, a 30% increase compared to 2024 [5] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The acquisition of HG Midstream for $1.1 billion adds over 400 undeveloped locations, enhancing Antero Midstream's competitive position in the Marcellus Shale [3] - The company expects 8% year-over-year EBITDA growth and 11% year-over-year free cash flow growth in 2026, following the integration of the acquired assets [4][7] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company anticipates a capital budget of $190 million to $220 million for 2026, focusing on well connections, water capital, and compression asset integration [6] - The forecast for 2026 includes Adjusted EBITDA of over $1.2 billion, reflecting an 8% increase year-over-year [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Antero Midstream's strategy emphasizes capital-efficient organic growth and the integration of acquired assets to enhance free cash flow and operational efficiency [3][8] - The company aims to maintain a strong balance sheet with leverage in the low 3x range while executing a balanced return of capital program [8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in continued EBITDA growth and capital efficiency, projecting high single-digit growth beyond 2027 due to the 3-rig, 2-completion crew program [12] - The management highlighted the strategic positioning of Antero Resources (AR) to meet growing demand over the next 5-10 years, supported by Antero Midstream's infrastructure [15] Other Important Information - The company reported a 20% return on invested capital (ROIC) for 2025, indicating strong capital efficiency [5] - The integration of the Intervale Water System is expected to provide high visibility into growth opportunities [4] Q&A Session Summary Question: Long-term growth outlook post-acquisition - Management indicated that the 3 rig, 2 crew program will support continued growth beyond 2027, with expected mid- to high single-digit EBITDA growth [12] Question: Growth plans for Antero Resources and implications for Antero Midstream - Management clarified that there is minimal additional capital required for Antero Midstream due to existing infrastructure, positioning AR well for future demand [14]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted earnings for the full year were $38.8 million or $0.95 per share, and for the fourth quarter, they were $11.6 million or $0.28 per share [11] - EBITDA for the quarter was $27 million and for the year was $95 million, highlighting strong operating leverage [13] - The cash break-even rate was reported at $11,700 per day, or $10,800 per day excluding CapEx, indicating effective cost management [10][22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - MR tankers earned $25,300 per day in Q4 and $29,100 per day in Q1 2026, while chemical tankers earned $19,900 per day in Q4 and $20,800 per day in Q1 2026 [10] - The company maintained a strong spot market exposure of 82% while also securing high-quality fixed-rate time charters [11][29] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The dislocation of oil refineries is a continuing trend, with refining capacity shifting east and tightening regional supply in the West, leading to increased voyage lengths and ton miles [14] - The global tanker fleet is facing sanctions, with over 16% currently subjected to them, tightening supply and benefiting compliant fleets like Ardmore's [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Ardmore's strategy focuses on capturing opportunities in refined oil products and complex chemical cargoes, supported by a fully integrated trading platform [19] - The company emphasizes asset flexibility, allowing it to adapt quickly to changing market conditions and capture value across cycles [21] - Ardmore's capital allocation policy remains aligned with its long-term strategy, focusing on performance and innovation [24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted that geopolitical risks and supply chain disruptions are reshaping trade flows, reinforcing the importance of flexibility in operations [53] - The company is committed to maintaining financial flexibility to navigate uncertainties and capitalize on opportunities [54] Other Important Information - Ardmore completed a major dry docking cycle, enhancing fleet performance and reducing future CapEx significantly [25] - The company has been recognized for its strong corporate governance, ranking as the top tanker company in Weber's Corporate Governance Scorecard [38] Q&A Session Summary Question: Future capital allocation considering rising asset values - Management indicated a non-binary approach to capital allocation, balancing between growth and maintaining a strong fleet, while observing market conditions closely [58] Question: Thoughts on the new building market for MRs - Management has not participated in the new building market since 2013, finding better value in the second-hand market, and remains vigilant about market opportunities [60] Question: Clarification on AI returns - The response clarified that the focus is on ensuring that AI investments meet ambitious return expectations, emphasizing a strategy of adopting rather than developing AI [66]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In 2025, the company achieved record levels of gross written premium and adjusted net income, with gross written premium increasing by 32% to $2 billion and adjusted net income growing by 62% to $216 million [4][28][29] - The adjusted return on equity for the full year was 25.9%, compared to 22.2% in 2024, indicating strong profitability [29] - For Q4 2025, adjusted net income was $61.1 million, or $2.24 per share, representing a 48% increase from $41.3 million, or $1.52 per share, in Q4 2024 [22][24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The earthquake franchise saw a 2% decline year-over-year, primarily due to a one-time headwind from a large unearned premium transfer in Q4 2024 [7] - The Inland Marine and other property group grew by 30% year-over-year in Q4, driven by strong performance in Builders Risk and flood products [9] - The casualty business experienced a 120% year-over-year growth in gross written premium in Q4, ending 2025 at 20% of total gross written premium [11][12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The commercial earthquake book faced a 15% rate decrease, with competition remaining elevated, while the residential earthquake book maintained a healthy premium retention rate of 97% [8][9] - The crop franchise generated $248 million in gross written premium in 2025, exceeding expectations, with a projected growth of over 30% in 2026 [14][15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company executed four strategic imperatives in 2025: integrate and operate, build new market leaders, remember preferences, and generate consistent earnings [5] - For 2026, the company aims to leverage scale for profitable growth, curate a distinct portfolio, deepen market positions, and integrate AI for operational efficiency [19][20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in sustaining the Palomar 2X target, with adjusted net income guidance for 2026 set at $260 million-$275 million, implying a 24% growth [18][30] - The company anticipates modest premium growth and margin expansion in the earthquake book despite ongoing commercial pressure [9][46] Other Important Information - The company successfully integrated two specialty franchises and closed the acquisition of Gray Casualty & Surety, which is expected to strengthen its surety franchise [5][17] - The adjusted combined ratio for the full year was 72.7%, with expectations for it to be in the mid-70s for 2026 [31] Q&A Session Summary Question: Higher retention on crop and its contribution to earnings - Management indicated that retaining more crop business will add approximately $8 million of pre-tax income for every $100 million retained, with a combined ratio expected in the low 90s [35][36] Question: 10% reduction in reinsurance costs - The 10% reduction is on a risk-adjusted basis, assuming like-for-like exposure [37] Question: Growth expectations from new underwriting hires - Management noted that growth contributions from new hires depend on the market they enter, with a focus on moderate growth and strong reinsurance support [40][42] Question: Breakdown of earthquake growth - The residential earthquake book is expected to grow in the high single digits to double digits, while commercial earthquake will face continued pressure [45][46] Question: Long-term returns on equity with changing business mix - Management believes it can maintain an ROE above 20% while achieving the Palomar 2X target, despite changes in the business mix [80]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4 2025, the company reported an AFFO per share of $0.45, with a full-year AFFO of $1.78 per share, representing a 2.9% growth over 2024 [21] - Q4 cash rental income was $67.5 million, reflecting an 11.1% growth compared to the same quarter last year [22] - Annualized cash-based rent at the end of Q4 was $264.2 million, with a weighted average five-year annual cash rent escalator of 1.5% [22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company acquired 30 properties in Q4 for $95 million at a blended cap rate of 7%, marking a 20 basis point expansion over the previous quarter [11] - In 2025, the total acquisition volume reached $318 million, with a blended cap rate of 6.8% [11][12] - The portfolio maintained a strong rent coverage ratio of 5.1 times, one of the highest in the net lease industry [5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has diversified its revenue sources, with 37% of rents coming from sectors outside casual dining, including automotive service (13%), quick service restaurants (11%), and medical retail (10%) [8] - The company reported no exposure to problematic retail sectors and maintained a portfolio occupancy rate of 99.6% [5][24] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to continue its conservative and thoughtful capital allocation strategy, focusing on high-quality acquisitions without sacrificing quality for volume [4] - The strategy includes expanding into new sectors such as grocery and equipment rental, while maintaining a focus on recession-resistant, essential service retailers [13][15] - The company plans to leverage favorable debt capital markets for acquisitions in 2026, with a focus on maintaining low leverage [10][19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the quality of the portfolio and the ability to re-tenant properties, particularly in light of recent discussions with Darden regarding the conversion of Bahama Breeze locations [7][32] - The company anticipates a strong year in 2026, supported by ample liquidity and a favorable cost of debt capital [75] - Management highlighted the importance of disciplined capital allocation and the potential for continued growth despite market challenges [40] Other Important Information - The company has no debt maturities until December 2026, providing a stable financial outlook [21] - The company has maintained a healthy fixed charge coverage ratio of 4.8 times and 98% of its debt is fixed [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: Market outlook for United Rentals and industrial outdoor storage - Management noted the attractiveness of the sector, highlighting a large addressable market and the potential for creditworthy tenants [27][28] Question: Update on Bahama Breeze exposure - Management confirmed that several locations will be converted to other Darden brands, with strong interest from potential new tenants [30][32] Question: Comfort level with approaching leverage limits - Management expressed confidence in maintaining a disciplined approach to capital allocation, with ample acquisition opportunities before reaching leverage limits [39][49] Question: Red Lobster exposure and performance - Management indicated that Red Lobster is performing better under new ownership, with properties predominantly under master leases [43][44] Question: Diversification strategy and sectors to avoid - Management reiterated a focus on balanced real estate and credit approaches, avoiding sectors with high risk [45] Question: Direct deals with developers - Management stated that they do not see a significant difference in returns between direct deals and those involving brokers [69][70]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue in the fiscal third quarter of 2026 was a record $15.9 million, with an operating loss of $153 thousand, significantly improved from an operating loss of $1.6 million in the same year-ago quarter [8] - Net loss for the quarter was $154 thousand, or -$0.01 per share, compared to a net loss of $1.6 million, or -$0.06 per share in the year-ago quarter [8] - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was a record $2.8 million, compared to -$670 thousand in the same year-ago quarter, driven by revenue growth and disciplined cost management [8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Podroll revenue increased more than 5% quarter-over-quarter, reflecting growing adoption of the dynamic ad marketplace by brands and agencies [7] - The Dr. Gundry Podcast achieved 18 million all-time downloads, showcasing the long-tail value of evergreen, expert-driven content [6] - The company renewed several key shows, including LadyGang and The Adam Carolla Show, which are expected to enhance monetization opportunities [6][5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The partnership with Dr. Phil's Envoy Media Company is expected to expand PodcastOne's reach beyond traditional podcast distribution into multi-platform owned media [5] - The company is experiencing increased advertiser interest, particularly in relation to the Dr. Phil Podcast, indicating a positive market response [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - PodcastOne is focusing on strategic partnerships, long-term talent renewals, and expansion of its owned and original content network [4] - The company aims to position itself as a content network rather than just a podcast publisher, leveraging AI-powered infrastructure to enhance operational efficiencies [4][10] - The strategy includes diversifying ad sales revenue generation channels and expanding relationships with brands and advertisers [19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the growth potential of the podcasting industry, citing increasing media spending levels and the entry of major brands into the podcasting space [60] - The company anticipates continued growth throughout fiscal 2026 and beyond, supported by its AI capabilities and expanding portfolio of owned content [10] Other Important Information - The company ended the quarter with $3.4 million in cash and cash equivalents and no debt on the balance sheet [9] - Management highlighted the importance of original IP and its potential to generate significant revenue with minimal additional costs [37] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the streams and downloads for the Dr. Phil Podcast, and what has been the advertiser response? - Management noted excitement about the Dr. Phil relationship, with positive advertiser interest and plans for future projects [13][15] Question: How are B2B deals impacting current results and what is the outlook? - Management highlighted the Amazon R19 deal as a significant contributor to revenue and efficiency, with expectations for continued growth in B2B relationships [18][19] Question: What is the outlook for cost of sales and G&A expenses? - Management indicated that G&A expenses are expected to remain stable in the short term, with ongoing efforts to contain costs [39] Question: What is the talent environment like for acquiring new shows? - Management reported a competitive environment for talent acquisition but remains optimistic about opportunities for growth and partnerships [56][58] Question: How is advertiser spending trending in the industry? - Management observed robust growth in media spending, with major brands increasingly shifting their budgets to podcasting [60]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue in the fiscal third quarter of 2026 was a record $15.9 million, with an operating loss of $153,000 compared to an operating loss of $1.6 million in the same year-ago quarter, indicating significant improvement driven by higher advertising revenue and operational efficiencies [8][9] - Net loss for the quarter was $154,000 or -$0.01 per share, compared to a net loss of $1.6 million or -$0.06 per share in the year-ago quarter [8] - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was a record $2.8 million, compared to -$670,000 in the same year-ago quarter, reflecting revenue growth and disciplined cost management [8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - PodRoll revenue increased more than 5% quarter-over-quarter, reflecting growing adoption of the dynamic ad marketplace by brands and agencies [7] - The Dr. Gundry Podcast and The Adam Carolla Show were highlighted as standout performers, with significant audience engagement and renewed multi-year agreements [6][5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The partnership with Dr. Phil's Envoy Media Company is expected to expand PodcastOne's reach into multi-platform owned media, enhancing its market position [5] - The company continues to see strong advertiser interest, particularly from major brands like Amazon and Progressive, indicating robust growth in media spending [65] Company Strategy and Development Direction - PodcastOne is focused on strategic partnerships, talent renewals, and expanding its owned and original content network, positioning itself as a leading content network rather than just a podcast publisher [4][10] - The company is leveraging AI-powered infrastructure to enhance operational efficiencies and audience engagement, which is expected to drive future growth [4][5] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the future, citing the company's strong position for continued growth throughout fiscal 2026 and beyond, driven by compelling content and strategic monetization [10] - The typical slowdown in advertising spending during the first quarter of the calendar year was acknowledged, with expectations to outperform last year's quarter despite a deceleration in guidance [53][54] Other Important Information - The company ended the quarter with $3.4 million in cash and cash equivalents and no debt on the balance sheet, indicating a strong financial position [9] - The acquisition of Varnamtown by Paramount for development as a streaming project underscores the strength of PodcastOne's original IP [7] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the streams and downloads for Dr. Phil's podcast, and what has been the advertiser response? - Management noted excitement about the Dr. Phil relationship, with positive advertiser interest and plans for future projects [13][15] Question: How are B2B deals impacting current results and future outlook? - The Amazon ART19 deal was highlighted as a significant contributor to revenue and operational efficiencies, with expectations for continued growth in B2B relationships [18][19] Question: What is the outlook for cost of sales and G&A expenses? - Management indicated that G&A expenses are expected to remain stable in the short term, with ongoing efforts to improve cost efficiencies [44][45] Question: What is the talent environment like for acquiring new shows? - The competitive landscape for talent acquisition remains, but management is optimistic about ongoing relationships and new opportunities [60][63] Question: How is advertiser spending trending in the industry? - Management reported increasing media spending levels, with major brands shifting their budgets to podcasting, indicating a robust growth outlook [65]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved a consolidated normalized EBITDA margin expansion of 50 basis points, reaching 33.4%, driven by a 7.5% growth in net revenue per hectoliter and improved financial discipline [18][19] - Stated net income reached almost BRL 16 billion, with stated EPS increasing by 8.2% year-on-year, while normalized EPS increased by 2% [20] - Cash flow from operating activities totaled BRL 24.5 billion, which was BRL 1.6 billion lower than the previous year due to softer volumes impacting working capital [21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Brazil Beer, full-year volumes were in line with a soft industry, with market share expanding meaningfully in Q4 as conditions improved [12][13] - Premium and super premium volumes increased by high teens, while non-alcoholic beverages grew around 30%, reflecting strong portfolio brand equity [14] - The BEES Marketplace saw full-year GMV grow by 70%, driven by third-party expansion, while Zé Delivery closed 2025 with BRL 4.7 billion in GMV, up 13% year-on-year [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The consumption recovery in Argentina is taking longer than expected, but performance improved sequentially throughout the year [16] - In the Dominican Republic, the consumption environment improved sequentially, with beer gaining share of alcoholic beverages [16] - In Canada, the company outperformed both beer and beyond beer industries, supported by strong brand performance [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on long-term value creation through disciplined execution of its capital allocation framework, emphasizing organic growth and selective M&A opportunities [18][22] - The strategy is built on three pillars: strengthening the core business, leveraging data and technology, and enhancing operational efficiency [9][11] - The company aims to maintain accessibility in pricing while protecting profitability, balancing the need for core brand relevance with premiumization [70] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The management noted that 2025 was a challenging year due to adverse weather conditions impacting beer consumption, but they are optimistic about 2026, citing events like the FIFA World Cup and a holiday-rich calendar as growth drivers [24][25] - The management emphasized that beer remains a culturally relevant category in Latin America, with strong fundamentals and room for growth [8][25] - The company is prepared for potential challenges in 2026, including cost pressures from commodities, but remains focused on margin expansion [22][72] Other Important Information - The company announced approximately BRL 20 billion in shareholder returns in 2025, the highest in its history, through dividends, interest on capital, and a share buyback program [12] - The effective tax rate for the year was 17.7%, reflecting one-off effects, with a normalized rate of approximately 20% [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on Brazil's beer volume growth in December - Management explained that the growth was driven by improved weather conditions and market share gains, with October being the main drag on performance [30][31] Question: Thoughts on sustaining profitability and cost management for 2026 - Management highlighted the need for continued focus on cost initiatives and resource allocation to maintain margin expansion, with guidance for cash COGS per hectoliter expected to increase between 4.5% and 7.5% [39][40] Question: Capital allocation and dividend policy for 2026 - Management indicated that discussions on dividends will continue quarterly, focusing on cash generation and maintaining a balance between growth investments and shareholder returns [47] Question: Strategic vision regarding core brands and portfolio performance - Management reaffirmed the importance of core brands in the portfolio, emphasizing ongoing efforts to keep them relevant while also expanding premium offerings [54][55] Question: Impact of GLP-1 drugs on the portfolio - Management noted no significant impact from GLP-1 drugs but acknowledged the need to monitor emerging trends and consumer preferences [63] Question: Pricing strategy and mix considerations for 2026 - Management discussed the dual focus on maintaining accessibility for core brands while also protecting profitability through strategic pricing and revenue management [70][71]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved a consolidated normalized EBITDA margin expansion of 50 basis points, reaching 33.4%, driven by net revenue per hectoliter growth of 7.5% and operational efficiencies [18][19] - Stated net income reached almost BRL 16 billion, with stated EPS increasing by 8.2% year-on-year, while normalized EPS increased by 2% [20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Brazil Beer, full-year volumes were in line with a soft industry, with market share expanding meaningfully in Q4 as conditions improved [12][13] - Premium and super premium volumes increased in the high teens, while non-alcoholic beverages grew around 30% [14] - BEES Marketplace's GMV grew 70%, and Zé Delivery delivered BRL 4.7 billion in GMV, up 13% year-on-year [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The beer category in Brazil faced headwinds primarily due to cyclical factors and weather conditions, impacting out-of-home consumption [7][8] - The Dominican Republic and Canada saw sequential improvements in consumption, with beer gaining share of alcoholic beverages [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on three strategic pillars: category leadership, leveraging data and technology, and enhancing operational efficiency [9][11] - The strategy aims to bridge the gap between beer's potential and actual consumption, fostering category growth [8] - The company plans to continue investing in organic growth, maintain a disciplined approach to M&A, and return excess cash to shareholders [22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The management expressed confidence in the beer category's fundamentals and its potential for growth, particularly in Latin America [7][25] - The upcoming FIFA World Cup and a holiday-rich calendar in Brazil are expected to create favorable conditions for socialization and beer consumption in 2026 [24][25] Other Important Information - The company announced approximately BRL 20 billion in shareholder returns in 2025, the highest in its history [12] - The effective tax rate for the year was 17.7%, influenced by one-off effects [20] Q&A Session Questions and Answers Question: Insights on Brazil's beer volume growth in December - The management attributed the growth to improved weather conditions and market share gains, with October being the main drag on performance [30][32] Question: Thoughts on sustaining profitability and cost management for 2026 - The company plans to continue focusing on cost efficiencies and maintaining disciplined resource allocation to support margin expansion [34][39] Question: Capital allocation and dividend policy for 2026 - The management indicated ongoing discussions about dividend distributions, emphasizing a consistent return to shareholders while considering organic growth investments [46][49] Question: Strategic vision regarding core brands and premiumization - The management believes in the importance of core brands for accessibility and plans to keep them relevant while also expanding premium offerings [54][56] Question: Impact of GLP-1 drugs on the portfolio - The management has not observed a significant impact from GLP-1 drugs but is monitoring the situation and adapting the portfolio to meet consumer needs [63][66] Question: Pricing strategy and mix considerations for 2026 - The company aims to balance accessibility with profitability in its pricing strategy, leveraging a complete portfolio to manage revenue effectively [71][74]