Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a one-time revenue adjustment of $300,000 from terminating easement rights, which is not expected to recur in the future [13][16] - Overall average rent growth is approximately 2.5% per year based on lease escalations, indicating stable rental income trends [62] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has added another asset to the held-for-sale category, specifically the Clara property, with plans to sell it by early January [19][20] - The Costco property is still in the held-for-sale category, with an expected closing by December 15, pending a demolition permit [20][22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Cap rates for properties being considered are primarily in the seven handles, with some reaching eight, indicating a competitive acquisition environment [30] - The company has observed an increase in acquisition opportunities recently, with a notable uptick in activity over the last week compared to the previous month and a half [24][27] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on systematic asset recycling to fund acquisitions, emphasizing a deliberate approach to selling non-core assets [32][35] - Management is optimistic about the potential for easing in capital markets, which could lead to more favorable conditions for acquisitions in the future [4][8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed a sense of optimism despite market volatility, noting that the balance sheet is stronger and there is more clarity than a year ago [10][9] - The company is closely monitoring the economic environment, particularly regarding interest rates and their impact on REITs, indicating a cautious but hopeful outlook [4][45] Other Important Information - The company is not currently planning to attend the NAREIT conference, indicating a strategic decision to focus on internal matters rather than external engagements [69] Q&A Session Summary Question: Were there any one-time revenue adjustments in your other property income? - Yes, there was a $300,000 fee for terminating easement rights, which is a one-time event [13][16] Question: Can you provide details on the asset in the held-for-sale bucket? - The Clara property has been formally engaged for sale, with expectations to close by early January [19][20] Question: What are the current cap rates for properties being considered? - Cap rates are mainly in the seven handles, with some reaching eight, indicating a competitive market [30] Question: How does the company view the acquisition opportunities currently? - There has been an increase in acquisition opportunities recently, with more activity observed in the last week [24][27] Question: What is the outlook for same store rental income? - The company does not currently calculate same store rental income but plans to implement it in the future [61][62] Question: When is the Solar property expected to be resolved or sold? - The company anticipates that the property could be taken to market by early first-quarter 2026 [65]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q3 2025, revenues were $5.8 million, down from $40.9 million year-to-date as of September 2024, largely due to order timing [3][4] - Gross profit for Q3 2025 was a negative $28,000, resulting in a 0.5% gross margin loss, compared to an 11% gross margin in Q3 2024 [4][5] - The net loss for Q3 2025 was $4.9 million, compared to a net profit of $1.3 million for the same period in 2024 [7] - Year-to-date net loss as of September 30, 2025, excluding non-cash items, was $7 million, compared to $5.8 million for the same period in 2024 [7] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenues for the nine months ending September 30, 2025, were 67% derived from commercial customers, up from 31% in the same period of 2024 [4] - International customers comprised 39% of all revenues in 2025, compared to 20% in 2024 [4] - The energy storage systems business saw a 21% increase this year, primarily from new customers with challenging requirements [24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Beam Europe contributed about 40% of revenue in Q3 2025, with new product portfolios helping to offset declines in traditional products due to political unrest [34][35] - The company is experiencing significant growth opportunities in the Middle East, particularly in electrification and charging infrastructure [30][56] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company has established Beam Middle East as a joint venture with the Platinum Group, aiming to leverage local partnerships for growth [10][11] - The strategy includes expanding product portfolios and geographic reach, particularly in Europe and the Middle East, to mitigate reliance on U.S. federal sales [29][41] - The focus is on developing differentiated products that command higher margins rather than competing at the commodity level [24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about future revenue growth despite current challenges, attributing recent revenue declines to order timing rather than fundamental issues [33] - The company anticipates a return to appetite for electric vehicles and charging infrastructure in the U.S. as global demand for EVs continues to rise [66] - Management highlighted the importance of maintaining operational efficiencies and reducing costs while expanding into new markets [41] Other Important Information - The company has a contracted backlog of $8 million as of the end of Q3 2025, not including potential future orders from the Middle East [36][38] - Beam Global's products have demonstrated resilience in extreme weather conditions, showcasing their reliability and operational capabilities [28] Q&A Session Summary Question: Inquiry about wireless charging sales efforts - Management indicated that while there has been interest in wireless charging, automotive OEMs have been slow to integrate necessary receivers into vehicles, which is crucial for market adoption [44][45] Question: Clarification on battery business trial periods - Management noted that the timeline for customer orders varies, with some customers eager to move quickly due to the unique advantages of Beam's battery solutions [48][49] Question: Breakdown of backlog and pipeline opportunities - Management confirmed that the backlog is now more diversified, with contributions from battery opportunities and new products, moving away from reliance on federal customers [52][54] Question: Manufacturing capacity and growth - Management stated that current manufacturing capacity is underutilized due to a decline in federal sales, but there is significant capacity for expansion, particularly in Europe [59][63]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue net of returns for Q3 2025 totaled $146,000, an increase from $126,000 in Q3 2024, while for the nine-month period, it decreased to $302,000 from $600,000 in 2024 [12][13] - Cost of sales increased to $291,000 from $82,000 in the year-ago quarter, primarily due to a $230,000 inventory reserve recorded in Q3 2025 [13] - Gross margins, excluding the inventory reserve, were 42% for Q3 2025 compared to 35% for Q3 2024 [13] - Net loss for Q3 2025 was $2.6 million, compared to $1.4 million for Q3 2024, while the nine-month net loss was $6 million compared to $4.2 million in 2024 [14][15] - Cash and cash equivalents at September 30, 2025, totaled $3.5 million, up from $2 million at December 31, 2024 [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is transitioning from the consumer device market to biopharmaceuticals, with a focus on Entolimod and related assets [3][11] - The company recorded reserves for excess and obsolete inventory of $230,000 as part of its exit from the consumer device market [11] - The company has discontinued significant resources toward ClearUP sales, reflecting its strategic shift [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is focusing on building relationships with U.S. and allied governments for Entolimod as a military countermeasure [5][6] - Discussions with BARDA are anticipated to explore stockpiling opportunities for Entolimod [5] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company has undergone a significant strategic transformation, expanding from bioelectronics to biologic pharmaceuticals with a focus on the immune system [3][4] - The primary commercial opportunity for Entolimod is as a countermeasure for acute radiation syndrome, with plans to advance clinical programs in neutropenia and lymphocyte exhaustion [6][7] - The company is also exploring alternative commercial opportunities for its non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) program [10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the progress of the transformation and the potential of Entolimod to deliver clinical benefits across multiple organ systems [7][16] - The company aims to advance value creation activities for shareholders while bringing life-saving treatments to patients [17] Other Important Information - The company has completed the transfer of two INDs for Entolimod, enabling further clinical development [6][16] - A new corporate website has been launched to emphasize the transformed mission and expanded clinical pipeline [12] Q&A Session Summary - No specific Q&A session content was provided in the transcript, thus this section is not applicable.

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q3 2025, the company reported a 26% year-over-year increase in sales, reaching $16 million, with gross margin expanding by over 700 basis points to nearly 30% [5][19] - Adjusted EBITDA improved to negative $2.1 million from negative $5.5 million, reflecting strength in the OEM segment and gross margin expansion [19] - Net loss was $11.1 million compared to a net loss of $6.8 million, with net loss per share at $0.20 versus a loss of $0.98 per share [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - OEM net sales increased by 44%, indicating strong adoption trends in the core RV market, while DTC sales slightly decreased to $5 million from $5.2 million due to macroeconomic headwinds [18][19] - The RV market partnerships expanded, with notable collaborations with Airstream, Awaken RV, and Ember RV, reinforcing the company's position in the premium RV segment [9][10][11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The heavy-duty trucking market is showing traction, with pilot programs leading to production orders from large fleets, indicating a growing validation of the company's lithium power systems [12][13] - The company is gaining market share despite overall industry challenges, with a focus on deepening integration with existing partners and acquiring new manufacturers [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company has successfully executed a comprehensive capital raising and debt restructuring, raising approximately $90 million and significantly improving liquidity and balance sheet strength [6][7] - The focus is now on allocating resources toward near-term revenue opportunities, strategic investments in proprietary technology, and expansion into adjacent markets [8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving profitability as they continue executing growth initiatives, despite challenges such as a volatile tariff environment and macroeconomic uncertainty [20][21] - The outlook for Q4 2025 anticipates net sales of approximately $13 million, with adjusted EBITDA expected to be negative $3.3 million, reflecting a cautious approach due to low consumer sentiment and government shutdown impacts [20][21] Other Important Information - The company expanded its intellectual property portfolio with two newly granted U.S. patents, enhancing its technology platform and manufacturing capabilities [15][16] - A $300,000 grant from the Nevada Tech Hub supports modernization initiatives, expected to generate significant annual savings while enhancing efficiency [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: What segment is dragging down Q4 revenue guidance? - Management indicated that Q4 is typically the slowest quarter due to seasonality, with less visibility in the D2C segment impacted by macroeconomic conditions and government shutdowns [23][25][27] Question: What is the outlook for significant growth in 2026? - Management expressed confidence in 2026, expecting a return to normality and significant growth driven by the trucking business and new segments [28] Question: What is the current cash balance and share count? - The company reported approximately 125 million common shares and a pro forma cash balance of around $30 million after recent transactions [31] Question: How is early feedback from potential customers post-debt restructuring? - Management noted a positive shift in conversations with customers, focusing on product benefits and ROI rather than balance sheet concerns [41][42] Question: What are the growth areas being prioritized? - The company plans to invest in expanding its sales team and product development, particularly in the oil and gas market and trucking segment [34][35]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For the second quarter of fiscal 2026, revenue increased by 19% to $3.9 million from $3.3 million in the prior year period, reflecting strong market adoption and strategic initiatives [9] - Gross profit for the quarter totaled $3.2 million, up 29.4% from $2.5 million in the prior year period, with a gross profit percentage improvement of 660 basis points to 81.9% [9][10] - The company achieved EBITDA of $373,000 this quarter, marking the second consecutive quarter of positive EBITDA, indicating progress towards profitability [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Technology fees accounted for 89% of the quarter's total revenue, highlighting strong customer satisfaction and retention [9] - The next-generation cardiac monitoring device, Biocorp Pro, has seen expanded sales, contributing to the company's revenue growth and market presence [4][5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Biotricity has monitored over 2 trillion heartbeats, significantly improving patient outcomes for those with atrial fibrillation, which is a primary focus for the company [8] - The company is expanding its market reach through strategic partnerships, including contracts with the VA and leading home care groups [5] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on innovation and operational efficiency, aiming to achieve economies of scale and maintain healthy net margins similar to SaaS-like businesses [3] - Future plans include expanding the commercial team and investing profits into commercial expansion to increase market share and drive top-line growth [5][17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving profitability in the next few quarters, supported by positive cash flows and improved operating results [12][13] - The growing market interest in chronic cardiac disease management reinforces the company's confidence in its market position and future growth [14] Other Important Information - Operating expenses for the second quarter were $2.9 million, a slight increase from $2.8 million in the same period last year, with strategic investments in R&D and sales force efficiency [11] - The net loss attributable to common shareholders for the quarter was $772,000, a significant reduction from $1.6 million in the prior year period [13] Q&A Session Summary - There were no questions during the Q&A session, indicating a clear communication of the company's progress and future plans [16]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a recurring EBITDA of BRL 1.5 billion, reflecting a decrease of approximately 16.3% compared to the previous year [10] - The recurring net profit saw a significant drop of around 30.2%, influenced by increased depreciation from major investments and higher interest rates [12] - The company confirmed a triple-A rating from Moody's, indicating strong resilience in its financial position [4] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Distribution results were negatively impacted by large clients migrating to the basic network, affecting overall performance [4] - In the generation segment, the company faced challenges due to lower GSF (Generation Scaling Factor), necessitating energy purchases that resulted in a BRL 54 million impact [11] - The trading business experienced a reduction in margins, leading to a BRL 136 million impact on distribution [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The energy market experienced a drop of 4.4%, affecting all segments including rural, commercial, and industrial [18] - The company reported strong collection performance, particularly through digital channels and the PIX instant payment method [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is maintaining its largest investment program, with BRL 4.7 billion allocated for the quarter, focusing on distribution and substations [5][8] - Investments in regulated areas are expected to yield positive results in the future, particularly in tariff reviews [6] - The company aims to enhance service efficiency by insourcing employees and improving technology [15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the challenges faced in the quarter but emphasized the company's resilience and commitment to its investment plan [4][8] - The CEO highlighted the importance of cautious investments and the favorable position in the trading business for future growth [6] Other Important Information - The company received recognition as the best energy company in Brazil by Vision Negócios and other awards for financial performance and sustainability [21] - The healthcare plan for retired employees was approved, contributing to the company's sustainability efforts [5] Q&A Session Summary Question: Inquiry about technical note 53 and its impact on loss reporting - The management clarified that the new method for calculating losses does not retroactively affect past calculations and that they remain within regulatory limits [24][25] Question: Question regarding trading strategy and energy balance changes - The Chief Trading Officer explained that the company is focused on closing positions rather than opening new ones, influenced by market conditions [26][27]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - As of September 30, the company reported Assets Under Management (AUM) of $989.1 million, with Q3 average AUM increasing to $950.7 million from $760.2 million in Q2 and $789 million in Q1, driven by crypto price movements and positive cash flows into ETP products [3][10] - Q3 revenue was $22.5 million, bringing cumulative IFRS revenues for the nine months ended September 30 to $80 million [3][10] - Q3 effective staking and lending income yield was 3.1%, down from 3.6% in Q2, attributed to lower protocol rewards [3][4] - Q3 operating income was $9 million, with a net income after tax of $3.9 million for the quarter and $33.8 million for the nine months [7][10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company staked approximately 58% of its AUM at the end of Q3, adjusting staking percentages in line with market conditions [4] - The effective management fee yield increased to 1.2% from 1.1% in Q2 due to new management fee-bearing products [4] - Valour was highlighted as a major performance driver, achieving net inflows every month year-to-date, with $38.8 million of inflows during Q3 [10][11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted a bullish outlook for cryptocurrency prices, with Bitcoin holding around $100,000, and increasing institutional and retail participation expected to drive prices higher [7][10] - The company is optimistic about expanding its addressable market in Europe, particularly with increasing institutional participation [22][45] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to focus on maximizing AUM and monetization through new product launches and expanding into new capital pools [41][42] - The recent $100 million equity raise is intended to support growth initiatives, including increasing staking and facilitating ETP market making [8][9] - The company is actively seeking M&A opportunities to strengthen its infrastructure and long-term growth prospects [9][60] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving the core revenue forecast of $116.6 million for 2025, contingent on a modest rally in cryptocurrency prices [5][6] - The transition in leadership with Johan Wattenstrom stepping in as CEO is expected to maintain the company's growth trajectory and operational focus [15][18] - Management acknowledged the challenges posed by the proliferation of digital asset treasury companies but remains optimistic about future opportunities [5][25] Other Important Information - The company has a venture portfolio consisting of 12 private investments, with Amina Bank being the largest, representing 83% of the portfolio's fair value [8] - The company repurchased nearly one million shares for $2.44 million during the quarter, indicating a commitment to returning value to shareholders [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Do Alpha trades carry a liquidity or price liability? - Johan Wattenstrom explained that all market risk for core operations is hedged, with some profit retained in tokens, leading to potential fluctuations based on market conditions [35][36] Question: What key message do you want to give long-term shareholders? - Johan Wattenstrom emphasized the focus on maximizing AUM and monetization through new products and vehicles aimed at tapping into new capital pools [41][42] Question: Can you comment on the investment pipeline? - Johan Wattenstrom noted that the company is looking at various opportunities but remains selective, ensuring that any potential acquisition aligns with long-term strategic goals [59][60]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - As of September 30, the company reported Assets Under Management (AUM) of $989.1 million, with Q3 average AUM increasing to $950.7 million from $760.2 million in Q2 and $789 million in Q1, driven by crypto price movements and positive cash flows into ETP products [3][10] - Q3 revenue was $22.5 million, bringing cumulative IFRS revenues for the nine months ended September 30 to $80 million [3][10] - Q3 effective staking and lending income yield was 3.1%, down from 3.6% in Q2, attributed to lower protocol rewards [3][4] - Q3 operating income was $9 million, with a net income after tax of $3.9 million for the quarter and $33.8 million for the nine months [7][10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company staked approximately 58% of its AUM at the end of Q3, with a management fee yield of 1.2%, slightly up from 1.1% in Q2 due to new management fee-bearing products [4][3] - Valour was highlighted as a major driver of performance, achieving net inflows every month year-to-date, with $38.8 million of inflows during Q3 [10][11] - Stillman Digital generated $2.2 million in trading commissions in Q3, continuing to strengthen its position in institutional trading [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted a bullish outlook for cryptocurrency prices, with Bitcoin holding around $100,000, and increasing institutional and retail participation expected to drive prices higher [7][10] - The company is optimistic about expanding its addressable market in Europe, particularly in France, where institutional participation is beginning to increase [22][45] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to focus on maximizing AUM and monetization through new product launches and expanding into new capital pools, including debt markets [41][42] - The recent $100 million equity financing will support increased staking and facilitate ETP market making on a larger AUM base [8][9] - The company is actively seeking creative M&A opportunities to strengthen its long-term growth prospects [9][60] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's strong balance sheet and ability to capitalize on market opportunities, despite macroeconomic headwinds [10][14] - The incoming CEO, Johan Wattenstrom, emphasized the importance of maintaining a high focus on core strategies while exploring new geographic markets and product offerings [18][41] - Management acknowledged delays in DeFi Alpha opportunities but reiterated the strength and profitability of the underlying business [5][13] Other Important Information - The company repurchased nearly one million shares for $2.44 million during the quarter, indicating a commitment to returning value to shareholders [12] - The venture portfolio includes 12 private investments, with Amina Bank being the largest, representing 83% of the portfolio's fair value [8] Q&A Session Summary Question: Do Alpha trades carry a liquidity or price liability? - Johan Wattenstrom explained that all market risk for core operations is hedged, with some profit retained in tokens, which may fluctuate with market conditions [35][36] Question: What key message do you want to give long-term shareholders? - Johan Wattenstrom stated that the long-term core strategy remains unchanged, focusing on maximizing AUM and expanding into new product offerings [41] Question: Can you provide insight on the investment pipeline? - Johan Wattenstrom mentioned that the company is looking at various opportunities but remains selective, ensuring that any potential acquisition aligns with long-term strategic goals [59][60] Question: What is the outlook for geographic expansion? - Andrew Forson confirmed that the company is working on geographic expansion and has had success in securing new markets, although specific details cannot be disclosed until regulatory approval is obtained [27][28] Question: What is driving the revenue guidance for Q4? - Paul Bozoki clarified that the company expects to achieve $36 million in Q4, contingent on crypto price movements and operational performance [64][65]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a recurring EBITDA of BRL 1.5 billion, reflecting a decrease of approximately 16.3% compared to the previous year [10] - The recurring net profit saw a significant drop of around 30.2%, influenced by increased depreciation from major investments and higher interest rates [12] - The company maintained a strong leverage ratio at 1.76, indicating safe levels of net debt over recurring EBITDA [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Distribution results were negatively impacted by large clients migrating to the basic network, leading to a decrease in revenue [4] - The trading business faced challenges, with a reported impact of BRL 136 million due to reduced margins and the need to close positions [11] - Generation was affected by a lower GSF, necessitating energy purchases that resulted in an impact of BRL 54 million [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The energy market experienced a drop of 4.4%, affecting all segments including rural, commercial, and industrial [18] - The company reported strong collection rates, particularly through digital channels, with a focus on the Pix payment method [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is committed to a significant investment program, with BRL 4.7 billion allocated for the first nine months of 2025, primarily focused on distribution and substations [5][8] - The strategy includes enhancing service efficiency through technology investments, such as smart meters and improved infrastructure [15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's resilience and ability to navigate challenging market conditions, supported by a triple-A rating from Moody's [4][8] - The management highlighted the importance of ongoing investments in regulated areas to ensure future revenue growth [6] Other Important Information - The company received recognition as the best energy company in Brazil by Vision Negócios and other awards for financial performance and sustainability [21] - A collective agreement with the union was finalized, ensuring the sustainability of the healthcare plan for retired employees [5] Q&A Session Summary Question: Inquiry about technical note 53 and its impact on loss reporting - The management clarified that the new method for calculating losses will not retroactively affect past calculations and that current losses remain within regulatory limits [24][25] Question: Question regarding trading strategy and energy balance changes - The Chief Trading Officer explained that the company is focused on closing positions rather than opening new ones, influenced by market conditions [26][27]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company's core FFO was negative $10.5 million for Q3 2025, compared to negative $11.5 million in the prior year, indicating a slight improvement [17] - Overall net operating income (NOI) was $7 million, down from $9.8 million in the previous quarter [6][7] - The company reported a negative FFO of $11.1 million, or negative $14.75 per diluted share, compared to negative $28.4 million in the prior year [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Office segment NOI decreased to $5 million in Q3 2025 from $5.4 million in Q3 2024, primarily due to lower rental revenues and occupancy declines [14][15] - Hotel NOI was $850,000 in Q3 2025, down from $1 million in the prior year, impacted by renovation disruptions [16] - Multifamily segment NOI increased to $792,000 in Q3 2025 from $508,000 in the prior year, driven by lower real estate taxes [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Multifamily occupancy at 701 South Hudson improved to approximately 81% from 68% at the end of the second quarter [9] - San Francisco experienced a third-quarter rent growth of 5.2%, the strongest year-over-year growth rate since 2015 [11] - The office portfolio was 73.6% leased at the end of Q3 2025, with a notable increase to 86.6% when excluding one Oakland property [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on strengthening liquidity and balance sheet while growing its multifamily business [4] - A definitive agreement was made to sell the lending business for approximately $44 million, considered a non-core asset [5] - The company aims to benefit from a recovering commercial real estate market, supported by lower interest rates and increased office leasing activity [6] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about improving cash flow in 2026, driven by office leasing activity, hotel renovations, and multifamily performance [8] - The company believes headwinds from COVID are largely behind, with return-to-office trends creating positive momentum [12] - Management anticipates meaningful opportunities for multifamily NOI growth through rising rents and improved occupancy [11] Other Important Information - Barry Berlin, the CFO, will step down following the sale of the lending division, with Brandon Hill set to assume the role [8] - The company is nearing completion of an $11 million renovation at the Sheraton Grand Sacramento, funded through various sources [12] Q&A Session Summary - There were no questions during the Q&A session, leading to the conclusion of the conference [21]