Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Daqo New Energy reported revenues of $244.6 million for Q3 2025, a significant increase from $75.2 million in Q2 2025 and $198.5 million in Q3 2024 [13] - Gross profit was $9.7 million, compared to a gross loss of $81 million in Q2 2025 and a gross loss of $60.6 million in Q3 2024, resulting in a gross margin of 3.9% [13][14] - Adjusted net income attributable to shareholders was $3.7 million, a turnaround from an adjusted net loss of $57.9 million in Q2 2025 and $39.4 million in Q3 2024 [16] - EBITDA for the quarter was $45.8 million, compared to negative $48 million in Q2 2025 and negative $34 million in Q3 2024, with an EBITDA margin of 18.7% [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total polysilicon production for Q3 2025 was 30,650 metric tons, slightly above the guidance range of 27,000 to 30,000 metric tons [6] - Sales volume increased sharply to 42,406 metric tons from 18,126 metric tons in the previous quarter, reflecting strong customer confidence [6][7] - Production costs declined by 12% to $6.38 per kilogram in Q3 2025, down from $7.26 per kilogram in Q2 2025 [7] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Polysilicon prices rose significantly, reaching RMB 49 to RMB 55 per kilogram by the end of Q3 2025, up from RMB 32 to RMB 35 per kilogram in June [10] - Monthly supply of polysilicon in Q3 remained in the range of approximately 100,000 to 130,000 metric tons [8] - China's effective capacity in polysilicon production is expected to decrease by 16.4% from the end of 2024, indicating a tightening supply environment [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to enhance its competitive edge by improving higher efficiency N-type technology and optimizing its cost structure through digital transformation and AI adoption [11] - Daqo New Energy is well-positioned to capture long-term growth in the global solar PV market, supported by a strong balance sheet and no bank loans [12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the solar PV industry is gradually recovering from a cyclical downturn, with positive trends in pricing and demand [5] - The company expects total polysilicon production volume in Q1 2026 to be approximately 39,500 to 42,500 metric tons, with a full-year 2025 production volume anticipated to be in the range of 121,000 to 124,000 metric tons [8] Other Important Information - As of September 30, 2025, the company had a cash balance of $552 million and total financial assets readily convertible into cash of $2.21 billion, an increase of $148 million compared to the end of Q2 2025 [6][17] - The company implemented proactive measures to counteract market oversupply, maintaining a nameplate capacity utilization rate of 40% [6] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the outlook for gross margins in Q3 and Q4? - Management expects positive gross margins for Q4 2025, driven by increased selling prices and continued cost reductions [22][23] Question: How does the company plan to address industry overcapacity? - The company acknowledges that there will still be oversupply but plans to balance production volume with demand, operating below full utilization rates until demand increases [25] Question: What is the expectation for solar installations in China in 2026? - Management anticipates stable installations in 2026, with growth expected to reach around 270 to 280 gigawatts [49]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company generated revenue of $699 million in Q3 2025, resulting in 1% organic growth, with foreign exchange (FX) providing a modest 1% tailwind [24][25] - Adjusted operating margins were 26.1%, down 220 basis points year-over-year but slightly above expectations [25] - Adjusted earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter was $1.18, which was $0.05 above the midpoint of guidance [8][26] - Free cash flow for the quarter was $120 million, representing approximately 90% of adjusted net income [9][26] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Signals software business grew 20% organically in the quarter, with annual recurring revenue (ARR) over 40% and a net retention rate of more than 110% [7][30] - The reproductive health business grew in the mid-single digits year-over-year, with newborn screening growing in the high single digits [7][31] - The diagnostics segment generated $356 million in revenue, up 3% on a reported basis and 2% on an organic basis, with immunodiagnostics declining in the low single digits [30] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Americas grew in the low single digits, Europe in the mid-single digits, while Asia declined in the mid-single digits, with China experiencing a low teens decline [29] - Sales to pharma and biotech customers were up low single digits, while sales to academic and government customers declined in the low single digits [29] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on disciplined capital deployment, with a new $1 billion share repurchase authorization to replace the existing program [10] - There is an emphasis on AI-driven solutions, with several new AI-focused software offerings launched in the past year [12][13] - The company is optimistic about future performance, anticipating organic growth of 2%-4% for the year and a baseline adjusted operating margin of 28% for 2026 [11][32] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about improving customer confidence and demand trends, particularly in the pharma and biotech sectors [6][10] - The company is cautious about assumptions until there are sustained improvements in broader industry demand trends [10][11] - Management reiterated the importance of maintaining a strong focus on cash flow generation and capital deployment priorities [9][10] Other Important Information - The company reported a 6% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions in 2024 and achieved a 77% employee satisfaction rate [19] - The company received a AAA rating from MSCI, the highest possible rating, reflecting its commitment to sustainability [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: Commentary on 2026 growth expectations - Management indicated a prudent assumption of 2%-3% organic growth for 2026, with signs of increasing activity in the instrument side and confidence in diagnostics performance outside of China [36][37] Question: Insights on life sciences business performance - The life sciences solutions business was in line with expectations, with reagents performing slightly below expectations due to lighter summer months [39][40] Question: Details on customer activity levels - Management noted that increasing customer activity is primarily seen in the pharma biotech sector, particularly in instruments, rather than academia and government [44] Question: Expectations for software business growth - The software business is expected to face challenging comps in 2026, with organic growth anticipated in the mid-single digits, but strong performance metrics such as ARR and net retention rate remain positive [58][60] Question: Insights on China diagnostics - Management confirmed that China diagnostics is expected to continue facing headwinds, with a projected decline of 20%-25% year-over-year due to changes in reimbursement [73][74]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q3 2025, the company reported positive EBITDA of USD 45.8 million, compared to negative USD 48 million in Q3 2024 and negative USD 34 million in Q2 2025 [7][19] - Revenue increased to USD 244.6 million from USD 75.2 million in Q2 2025 and USD 198.5 million in Q3 2024, primarily due to increased sales volume and average selling price [16] - Gross profit was USD 9.7 million, a significant improvement from a gross loss of USD 81 million in Q2 2025 and a gross loss of USD 60 million in Q3 2024 [17] - Cash balance as of September 30, 2025, was USD 552 million, down from USD 599 million at the end of Q2 2025 [20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total polysilicon production for Q3 2025 was 30,650 metric tons, slightly above the guidance range of 27,000 to 30,000 metric tons [9] - Sales volume surged to 42,406 metric tons from 18,126 metric tons in the previous quarter, reflecting strong customer confidence [9] - Production costs declined by 12% to USD 6.38 per kilogram from USD 7.26 in Q2 2025, with cash costs decreasing by 11% to USD 4.54 per kilogram, the lowest in the company's history [10][19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The polysilicon market is recovering, with prices rebounding significantly, driven by supply constraints and government regulations [7][12] - China's effective capacity for polysilicon production is expected to decline to 2.4 million metric tons per year, a decrease of 16.4% from 2024 [13] - The average selling price of polysilicon increased to RMB 49-55 per kilogram by the end of Q3 2025, up from RMB 32-35 in June [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to enhance its competitive edge through higher efficiency N-type technology and digital transformation [14] - The management believes that the combination of industry self-discipline and government regulations will foster a healthier solar PV industry [14] - The company is well-positioned to capitalize on market recovery and long-term growth opportunities in the global solar PV market [14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the recovery of the solar PV market, citing improved industry fundamentals and government support for renewable energy [7][12] - The company expects to maintain positive gross margins in Q4 2025, driven by stable average selling prices and continued cost reductions [27] - The management anticipates that production volume in 2026 could exceed 50% utilization, reflecting a more favorable demand outlook [61] Other Important Information - The company has a strong balance sheet with no bank loans, providing strategic flexibility to navigate market conditions [8][14] - The management is monitoring the market closely regarding share repurchase plans, pending clarity on consolidation efforts [48] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expectations for gross margins in Q3 and Q4 - Management expects positive gross margins to continue in Q4, driven by increased selling prices and reduced costs [26][27] Question: Industry overcapacity and actions to address it - Management acknowledged ongoing overcapacity but emphasized balancing production volume with demand rather than operating at full capacity [31] Question: Consolidation agreement timeline and mechanisms - Conversations regarding consolidation are ongoing, with management hopeful for a consensus soon to support price recovery [40] Question: ASP expectations post-consolidation - Management anticipates ASPs to remain stable in Q4, with potential increases following consolidation efforts [46] Question: Share repurchase program progress - The company is waiting for clarity on consolidation costs before resuming share repurchases [48] Question: Production cost and electricity consumption - Current unit electricity consumption is between 52 to 55 kilowatt-hours per kilogram [57] Question: Production plan adjustments and demand outlook - The company raised its production plan for Q4, expecting to capitalize on improved market conditions [59] Question: Solar installation expectations for 2026 - Management forecasts stable installation growth in China, with additional installations expected to be in the range of 270 to 280 gigawatts [71]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved revenue of $699 million in Q3 2025, resulting in 1% organic growth, with foreign exchange (FX) providing a modest tailwind of approximately 1% [24][26] - Adjusted operating margins were reported at 26.1%, slightly above expectations but down 220 basis points year-over-year due to tariffs, FX, and lower volume leverage [24][25] - Adjusted earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter was $1.18, exceeding the midpoint of guidance by $0.05 [26] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The signals software business grew 20% organically in the quarter, continuing to be a strong performer with an annual recurring revenue (ARR) of over 40% and a net retention rate of more than 110% [28] - The reproductive health business grew in the mid-single digits, with newborn screening growing in the high single digits [5][30] - The diagnostics segment generated $356 million in revenue, up 3% on a reported basis and 2% organically, with immunodiagnostics declining in the low single digits [29] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Americas experienced low single-digit growth, Europe saw mid-single-digit growth, while Asia declined in the mid-single digits, with China specifically declining in the low teens [27] - The diagnostics business in China faced a decline of over 20%, significantly impacting overall performance [31][90] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on capital deployment through share repurchases, having repurchased approximately 2.3 million shares in Q3, totaling 12.5 million shares since the divestiture [8][26] - The company is optimistic about future performance, anticipating organic growth in the 2% to 4% range for the year, while raising adjusted EPS guidance to $4.90 to $5.00 [9][33] - Strategic partnerships, such as those with Genomics England and Sanofi, are expected to enhance product offerings and market presence [16][17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism regarding improving customer confidence and investment levels in the industry, despite current market stability [4][9] - The company is cautious in its assumptions until sustained improvements in broader industry demand trends are observed [10][18] - Management highlighted the importance of AI in driving productivity and innovation, with several new AI-based products launched [11][12] Other Important Information - The company reported a 6% reduction in scope one and two emissions in 2024 and a 77% employee satisfaction rate [17] - The company received a AAA rating from MSCI, indicating strong performance in ESG metrics [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on 2026 growth outlook - Management indicated a prudent assumption of 2% to 3% organic growth for 2026, with signs of increasing customer activity, particularly in the pharma sector [36][39] Question: Confidence in maintaining 28% operating margin - Management expressed confidence in achieving a 28% operating margin baseline for 2026, supported by ongoing actions and cost containment initiatives [41][42] Question: Performance of reagents in Q3 - Reagents were reported to be slightly below expectations, with modest declines noted, but underlying lab activity remains strong [78][79] Question: Impact of budget flush in Q4 - A modest seasonal increase in instrument sales is expected in Q4, with some improvement in customer activity levels noted [82] Question: Future of China diagnostics - Management expects continued headwinds in China diagnostics due to DRG impacts, but anticipates a return to low single-digit growth post-anniversary in Q2 2026 [90][92]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Daqo New Energy reported revenues of $244.6 million for Q3 2025, a significant increase from $75.2 million in Q2 2025 and $198.5 million in Q3 2024 [14] - The company achieved a gross profit of $9.7 million, compared to a gross loss of $81 million in Q2 2025 and a gross loss of $60.6 million in Q3 2024, resulting in a gross margin of 3.9% [14][15] - Adjusted net income attributable to shareholders was $3.7 million, a turnaround from an adjusted net loss of $57.9 million in Q2 2025 and $39.4 million in Q3 2024 [17] - EBITDA for the quarter was $45.8 million, compared to negative $48 million in Q2 2025 and negative $34 million in Q3 2024, with an EBITDA margin of 18.7% [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total polysilicon production for Q3 2025 was 30,650 metric tons, slightly above the guidance range of 27,000 to 30,000 metric tons, with a sales volume of 42,406 metric tons, up from 18,126 metric tons in the previous quarter [6][7] - Production costs decreased by 12% to $6.38 per kilogram in Q3 2025, down from $7.26 per kilogram in Q2 2025, with cash costs at $4.54 per kilogram, the lowest in the company's history [7][16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The polysilicon prices rose significantly, reaching RMB 49 to RMB 55 per kilogram by the end of Q3 2025, up from RMB 32 to RMB 35 per kilogram in June 2025 [10] - Monthly supply of polysilicon in Q3 remained in the range of approximately 100,000 to 130,000 metric tons, indicating a recovering market [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to enhance its competitive edge by improving its N-type technology and optimizing its cost structure through digital transformation and AI adoption [11] - Daqo New Energy is well-positioned to capture long-term growth in the global solar PV market, supported by a strong balance sheet and no bank loans [12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the recovery of the solar PV industry, citing the rebound in polysilicon prices and the implementation of new energy consumption standards as positive catalysts [5][9] - The company anticipates a production volume of approximately 121,000 to 124,000 metric tons for the full year 2025, with expectations for continued positive gross margins in Q4 2025 [8][14] Other Important Information - As of September 30, 2025, the company had a cash balance of $552 million and total financial assets readily convertible into cash of $2.21 billion, reflecting a solid financial foundation [6][18] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the expectation for gross margins in Q3 and Q4? - Management expects positive gross margins for Q4 2025, driven by increased selling prices and continued cost reductions [22][23] Question: How does the company plan to address overcapacity in the polysilicon market? - The company acknowledges that there will still be oversupply but plans to balance production volume with demand, operating below full utilization rates until demand increases [25][26] Question: What is the status of the share buyback program? - The company is monitoring market conditions and waiting for clarity on potential consolidation investments before resuming share repurchases [36][37] Question: What are the expectations for solar installations in China for 2026? - The company anticipates stable installations in China, with growth expected to reach around 270 to 280 gigawatts in 2026 [51]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved revenue of $699 million in Q3 2025, resulting in 1% organic growth, with foreign exchange (FX) providing a modest 1% tailwind [24][25] - Adjusted operating margins were 26.1%, slightly above expectations but down 220 basis points year-over-year due to tariffs, FX, and lower volume leverage [25][26] - Adjusted earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter was $1.18, exceeding the midpoint of guidance by $0.05 [6][26] - Free cash flow generated in the quarter was $120 million, representing approximately 90% of adjusted net income [7][8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Signals software business grew 20% organically in the quarter, with strong performance in Software as a Service (SaaS) [5][29] - The reproductive health business grew in the mid-single digits year-over-year, with newborn screening growing in the high single digits [5][31] - The diagnostics segment generated $356 million in revenue, up 3% on a reported basis and 2% organically, with immunodiagnostics declining in the low single digits [29][30] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Americas saw low single-digit growth, Europe experienced mid-single-digit growth, while Asia declined in the mid-single digits, with China down in the low teens [28] - The life sciences segment generated revenue of $343 million, up 1% on a reported basis and roughly flat on an organic basis [28] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on disciplined capital deployment, with a new $1 billion share repurchase authorization to replace the existing program [9] - The company is optimistic about future performance, anticipating organic growth of 2% to 4% for the year and adjusted EPS guidance raised to $4.90 to $5.00 [10][33] - The company is actively pursuing AI-driven solutions and strategic partnerships to enhance its product offerings and market position [12][14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about improving customer confidence and investment levels in the science sector, despite a stable demand environment [5][19] - The company is cautious in its assumptions until sustained improvements in broader industry demand trends are observed [10][19] - Management highlighted the importance of recent strategic partnerships, including collaborations with Genomics England and Sanofi, which are expected to drive future growth [16][17] Other Important Information - The company reported a 6% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions in 2024 and a 77% employee satisfaction rate [18][19] - The company received a AAA rating from MSCI, indicating strong performance in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Commentary on 2026 growth outlook - Management indicated a prudent assumption of 2% to 3% organic growth for 2026, with signs of increasing activity in the pharma and biotech sectors [36][37] Question: Insights on life sciences business performance - Management noted that reagents were modestly lower than anticipated, with expectations for a similar market environment moving forward [41][42] Question: Customer activity levels in October - Management observed increasing activity primarily from pharma and biotech customers, particularly in instruments [45][46] Question: EPS growth expectations for 2026 - Management indicated that a 2% to 3% organic growth rate with 28% operating margins would imply high single-digit EPS growth for 2026 [47][48] Question: Confidence in Q4 ramp - Management expressed confidence in the ramp from Q3 to Q4, citing seasonal increases and expected contributions from software and instruments [53][55] Question: China diagnostics outlook - Management confirmed that China diagnostics would continue to face headwinds, with expectations for a return to muted growth levels in the second half of 2026 [76][78]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - POSCO Holdings recorded consolidated revenue of KRW 17.3 trillion and operating profit of KRW 640 billion, showing improvement in operating profit for three consecutive quarters despite losses at POSCO E&C [1][3] - The operating profit margin for the quarter was 6.6%, driven by increased sales volume and proactive cost-cutting efforts [1][8] - Operating profit increased from KRW 322 billion in Q4 of the previous year to KRW 585 billion in Q3 of this year, despite a 1.7% drop in revenue due to declining sales prices [7][8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the steel sector, production volume increased by 4.9%, but sales prices dropped by approximately KRW 25,000 per ton, leading to a decline in revenue [8] - In rechargeable battery materials, losses narrowed significantly quarter-over-quarter due to increased cathode sales volume and a rebound in lithium prices [2][10] - POSCO E&C faced a one-time cost of KRW 288.1 billion due to the Sinansan incident, with an additional KRW 230 billion expected in Q4 [10][11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The domestic steel market is normalizing, but imports have flooded the market prior to the anti-dumping ruling, affecting sales prices [8][9] - Overseas steel profits are expected to decline moderately due to slow performance in Mexico and other rolling mills, while profits in India shrank due to major repairs [9] - The lithium market is anticipated to see a price increase, with expectations of reaching $10-$15 per ton next year [30][51] Company Strategy and Development Direction - POSCO Group is focused on creating a safe workplace through comprehensive safety management innovations and plans to establish a group-wide safety master plan [3][6] - The company aims to ramp up new plants and improve process efficiency in lithium operations while ensuring disciplined execution to avoid additional costs [2][29] - Future investments will prioritize growth markets in the U.S. and India, with a focus on environmental investments and potential M&A opportunities [28][29] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the complexities in the external environment and expressed optimism for a recovery in steel profits in 2026 compared to the current year [9][11] - The company plans to address uncertainties related to the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and is committed to reducing its carbon footprint [20][21] - Management expects to return to normal levels of profitability in POSCO E&C next year after accounting for one-off losses [11] Other Important Information - POSCO Group has completed 63 portfolio management projects, generating KRW 1.4 trillion in cash [7] - The company has launched a safety task force and is implementing new safety technologies and practices to prevent future incidents [5][6] Q&A Session Summary Question: Steel market outlook for Q4 and guidance for next year - Management indicated that the impact of anti-dumping measures would be difficult to assess immediately due to prior imports and expected seasonal demand fluctuations [18][19] Question: Response to carbon-related costs and EU regulations - Management is developing guidelines to counter the CBAM initiative and is focused on reducing carbon emissions while engaging with the EU [20][21] Question: Update on Alaska LNG project and its impact on sales volume - The project is under review, and if realized, it could supply about 300,000 tons of steel from 2026 to 2028 [23] Question: Mid to long-term steel strategies and investment plans - Management confirmed plans to increase overseas capacity and shut down non-competitive domestic facilities while exploring new growth areas [27][28] Question: Update on lithium demand and production - Lithium demand is expected to rise significantly, with projections of 1.3 million tons of production next year, driven by EVs and other applications [45][51]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - POSCO Holdings recorded consolidated revenue of 17.3 trillion and operating profit of 640 billion, showing improvement in operating profit for three consecutive quarters despite losses at POSCO E&C [1][2] - The operating profit margin for the quarter was 6.6%, driven by increased sales volume and proactive cost-cutting efforts [1][8] - Operating profit for POSCO improved from 322 billion in Q4 of last year to 585 billion in Q3 of this year, despite a 1.7% drop in revenue due to declining sales prices [7][8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the steel sector, production volume increased by 4.9%, but the average selling price dropped, leading to a decrease in revenue [8] - In rechargeable battery materials, losses narrowed sharply quarter-over-quarter due to increased cathode sales volume and a price rebound in lithium operations [2][10] - POSCO E&C faced significant one-time costs of 288.1 billion due to the Shenzhen incident, with an additional 230 billion expected in Q4 [10][64] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The domestic steel market demand is slowing, with imports flooding the market prior to the AD ruling, impacting sales prices [8][20] - Overseas steel profits are expected to decline moderately due to poor performance in Mexico and India, while steady performance is anticipated in Indonesia and Vietnam [9][10] - The lithium market is projected to see increased demand, with expectations of 14 million EVs next year, leading to a potential increase in lithium prices [51][52] Company Strategy and Development Direction - POSCO Group is focused on creating a safe workplace through comprehensive safety management innovations and plans to establish a safety master plan [3][6] - The company aims to ramp up new plants and improve process efficiency in lithium operations while ensuring disciplined execution to avoid additional costs [2][31] - Future investments will prioritize environmental projects and overseas capacity additions, particularly in high-growth markets like the U.S. and India [30][31] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the complexities of external uncertainties affecting the operating environment and expressed optimism for a recovery in steel profits in 2026 [1][9] - The company is preparing for the implementation of the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism and is actively developing strategies to mitigate its impact [21][22] - Management expects to return to normal profitability levels in POSCO E&C by next year after accounting for one-time losses [10][64] Other Important Information - POSCO Group has restructured seven projects, generating 400 billion in cash, and completed 63 projects since early 2024, generating 1.4 trillion in cash [7] - The company is committed to enhancing safety measures and has launched a task force to improve workplace safety [4][5] Q&A Session Summary Question: Steel market outlook for Q4 and anti-dumping effects - Management indicated that the impact of anti-dumping measures would be difficult to assess immediately, but they expect some positive effects from the real estate market in late Q4 [19][20] Question: Response to carbon-related costs and EU regulations - Management acknowledged the potential increase in costs due to the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism and emphasized ongoing communication with the EU to address uncertainties [21][22] Question: Update on Alaska LNG project and its impact - The project is under review, and if realized, it could supply about 300,000 tons of steel, with operations expected between 2026 and 2028 [24] Question: Mid to long-term steel strategies - Management confirmed plans to increase overseas capacity and shut down non-competitive domestic facilities while focusing on new growth areas [28][30] Question: Update on lithium operations and market demand - Management reported that ramp-up for lithium operations is expected to be completed by early next year, with anticipated increases in lithium prices and demand [55][59]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - POSCO Holdings reported consolidated revenue of 17.3 trillion KRW and operating profit of 640 billion KRW for Q3 2025, showing improvement in operating profit for three consecutive quarters [1] - The operating profit margin for the quarter was recorded at 6.6%, driven by increased sales volume and cost-cutting efforts, despite a 1.7% drop in revenue compared to the previous quarter [1][8] - Operating profit for POSCO specifically was 585 billion KRW in Q3, reflecting a continuous recovery pattern from previous quarters [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the steel sector, despite a decline in sales prices due to market saturation and increased imports, production volume increased by 4.9% [7][8] - In rechargeable battery materials, losses narrowed significantly quarter-over-quarter, with cathode sales volume nearly doubling due to the impending IRA benefit sunset [2][10] - POSCO E&C faced significant losses due to the Shenzhen line incident, with a one-time cost of 288.1 billion KRW recognized in Q3, and an additional 230 billion KRW expected in Q4 [10][49] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The domestic steel market in Korea is normalizing, but the company anticipates challenges due to reduced EU duty-free quotas and increased tariffs on steel products [1][9] - Overseas steel profits are expected to decline moderately, particularly in Mexico and India, while steady performance is anticipated in Indonesia and Vietnam [9][10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on ramping up new lithium plants and improving process efficiency, with a commitment to disciplined execution to avoid additional costs [2] - POSCO Group is implementing a comprehensive safety management plan to prevent future incidents and improve workplace safety [4][5] - The company is restructuring its portfolio, having completed 63 projects generating 1.4 trillion KRW in cash, and is prioritizing investments in high-growth markets such as the U.S. and India [6][25] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed that while the current operating environment is complex, they expect to return to normal profitability levels in 2026 after accounting for one-off losses [3][10] - The outlook for the steel market in 2026 is positive, with anticipated overall profit increases compared to the current year [9] - Management highlighted the importance of adapting to changes in carbon-related costs and trade regulations, particularly the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism [13][19] Other Important Information - The company is actively engaging in negotiations to secure more quotas in response to EU tariff increases and is adjusting its sales strategy to mitigate impacts from reduced quotas [47] - The company is also exploring potential M&A opportunities in sectors aligned with its long-term growth strategy [26] Q&A Session Summary Question: Steel market outlook for Q4 and impact of anti-dumping measures - Management indicated that the impact of anti-dumping measures would be difficult to assess immediately due to prior imports and expected seasonal demand fluctuations [16][17] Question: Response to EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism - Management noted that while initial impacts may be minimal, costs are expected to rise in subsequent years, and they are developing guidelines to address these changes [18][19] Question: Investment plans and restructuring strategies - Management confirmed ongoing evaluations of investment opportunities in high-growth markets and emphasized the importance of maintaining competitiveness through facility upgrades and potential closures of underperforming assets [24][25] Question: Update on lithium operations and market demand - Management provided updates on the ramp-up of lithium operations, indicating that full operations are expected by early next year, with anticipated increases in demand driven by EVs [41][44]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - POSCO Holdings recorded consolidated revenue of KRW 17.3 trillion and operating profit of KRW 640 billion for Q3 2025, showing improvement in operating profit for three consecutive quarters [1][2] - The operating profit margin for the quarter was 6.6%, with a recovery in operating profit despite a 1.7% drop in revenue due to declining sales prices [2][11] - The average mill margin remained comparable to the previous quarter, supported by proactive cost-cutting efforts [1][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the steel segment, operating profit increased to KRW 585 billion in Q3 2025, despite a 4.9% increase in production volume and a decline in sales prices [10][11] - Rechargeable Battery Materials saw a significant narrowing of losses quarter-over-quarter, with cathode sales volume increasing ahead of the IRA benefit sunset [2][15] - POSCO E and C faced substantial losses due to the Shinansan line accident, with a one-time cost of KRW 288.1 billion recognized in Q3 [17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The domestic steel market in Korea is normalizing, although demand continues to slow, and imports have flooded the market prior to the AD ruling [2][11] - The proportion of exports in Q3 rose to approximately 49.3%, indicating a shift in sales strategy [12] - Overseas steel profits are expected to experience a moderate decline, particularly in Mexico and India, while performance in Indonesia and Vietnam remains steady [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on creating a safe workplace through group-wide safety management innovations following recent safety incidents [4][5] - POSCO Group plans to return to normal profitability levels in 2026 after accounting for one-off losses from the Shinansan incident [4][17] - Future investments will prioritize environmental projects and overseas capacity additions, particularly in high-growth markets like the U.S. and India [41][42] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism for the steel market in 2026, anticipating overall profit increases compared to the current year [13] - The company is preparing for the implementation of the EU's CBAM and is developing countermeasures to mitigate potential impacts [28][29] - Management highlighted the importance of adapting to changing market conditions and maintaining competitiveness through strategic investments [40][41] Other Important Information - POSCO Holdings has completed 63 portfolio management projects generating KRW 1.4 trillion in cash since early 2024 [9] - The company is actively restructuring its operations and focusing on safety improvements following recent incidents [5][8] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the outlook for the steel market in Q4 and next year? - Management indicated that the impact of anti-dumping measures will be difficult to assess immediately, but they expect some positive effects in the latter part of the year [24][25] Question: How will the company respond to carbon-related costs and regulations? - The company plans to develop guidelines to address the EU's CBAM and will continue efforts to reduce carbon footprints [28][29] Question: What are the investment plans following recent portfolio management? - Management stated that generated cash will be used for business growth and managing non-leverage assets, with ongoing reviews for potential acquisitions [66][67] Question: What is the current situation regarding lithium demand and pricing? - Lithium demand is expected to increase significantly, with projections for EVs and ESS driving growth [68][75] Question: How will the company handle the impact of the EU's duty-free quota reduction? - The company plans to negotiate individually with countries under FTA agreements and adjust sales strategies to mitigate impacts [77][78]