AEye (LIDR) 2025 Conference Summary Company Overview - **Company**: AEye - **Industry**: LiDAR technology for automotive and adjacent markets Key Points and Arguments Strategic Decisions and Product Development - AEye made a pivotal decision in early 2024 to separate from Continental and focus on developing a new LiDAR product called Apollo, aimed at improving performance, cost, and size [5][6] - Apollo was integrated with NVIDIA DRIVE AGX platform, enhancing performance metrics and providing an objective view of capabilities [7][8] Market Dynamics and Opportunities - There is a growing recognition of LiDAR's essential role in the automotive industry, with significant demand expected in the next twelve months [9][12] - AEye anticipates shipping 2 to 3 million sensors in China this year, indicating a strong market presence [11] - Replacement cycles in adjacent industries, such as tolling applications, are driving demand for LiDAR due to its cost-effectiveness compared to traditional methods [13][14] Financial Position and Growth Potential - AEye has over $80 million in cash, with the lowest burn rate in the industry, providing a strong financial position to capitalize on near-term revenue opportunities [17][18] - The company expects significant returns with lower revenue thresholds due to its efficient cost structure [18] Competitive Advantages - AEye's LiDAR technology can gather 4 to 5 times more photons than competitors, allowing for a detection range of up to one kilometer [22] - The Apollo system is designed for easy integration into vehicles without extensive modifications, enhancing its appeal to OEMs [23] Partnerships and Collaborations - AEye's partnership with NVIDIA has provided substantial support, including outbound marketing and validation of their technology, which has accelerated discussions with OEMs [47][50] - The collaboration with Lite On is crucial for supply chain management and cost efficiency, allowing AEye to maintain a competitive edge [60][68] Revenue Generation and Market Strategy - AEye has secured six contracts and is in deep negotiations for 30 more, indicating a robust pipeline for future revenue [31] - The company is focusing on both automotive and non-automotive markets, with higher margins expected in non-automotive applications [61] Future Outlook and Milestones - AEye aims to ship thousands of units by 2026, with a focus on ramping revenue and customer conversions [71] Additional Important Insights - The integration of Apollo and Optus platforms allows for a comprehensive solution that combines sensing and AI capabilities, expanding AEye's addressable market [44][46] - AEye is addressing supply chain concerns proactively, ensuring resilience through strategic partnerships [66][68] - The company is focused on maintaining financial discipline and resource allocation to convert customer engagements into long-term revenue [41][43]

Summary of Arista Networks (ANET) Conference Call - August 13, 2025 Industry Overview - The discussion primarily revolves around the **AI networking** sector, highlighting the transition from traditional data center networking to AI-driven networking solutions [2][3][4]. - The **Data Center Interconnect (DCI)** technology is also a significant focus, particularly its role in supporting AI and machine learning applications [16][18][21]. Key Points on AI Networking - **Scale Out vs. Scale Up**: - **Scale Out** involves connecting tens to thousands of GPUs in a high-speed interconnect network, which is currently the primary focus of AI networking [3][4]. - **Scale Up** is an emerging market that offers higher speed interconnects (4x to 8x faster) but is limited to fewer compute nodes. This market is still nascent and expected to grow incrementally [5][6][8]. - The **Total Addressable Market (TAM)** for Scale Up is anticipated to become significant by **2028**, potentially matching the size of the Scale Out market [9][10][8]. - **Ethernet Technology**: - There is a strong expectation that Ethernet will dominate both Scale Out and Scale Up networking, similar to its transition in the past from InfiniBand [10][11][12]. - The introduction of new chipsets, such as Broadcom's Tomahawk series, is expected to facilitate this transition [12][14]. Data Center Interconnect (DCI) Insights - The **800 gigabit** technology is now predominantly used for AI applications, with DCI serving as a secondary use case [17][18]. - The growth in DCI is driven by the need for high-speed bandwidth between multiple data center buildings, especially as organizations expand their physical infrastructure [20][21][22]. Customer Engagement and Growth Trajectory - Major cloud customers are expected to exceed **100,000 GPU clusters** by the end of 2025, with no signs of demand slowing down for AI-related infrastructure [25][26]. - The **CapEx budgets** of large consumers of AI are increasing, indicating continued investment in AI technologies [26][27]. - Smaller enterprises are also beginning to engage in AI projects, transitioning from discussions to pilot programs and trials [34][36][39]. Competitive Landscape and Product Strategy - Arista's competitive advantage lies in its combination of **hardware optimization** and **middleware intelligence**, which enhances the performance and reliability of its networking solutions [59][60]. - The company is focused on maintaining a strong relationship with key customers to ensure its products meet evolving market needs [66][70]. Future Outlook - The transition to **1.6T** and **3.2T** technologies is anticipated, with existing technologies (400G and 800G) expected to coexist in the market for the foreseeable future [75][78]. - Arista is actively exploring partnerships to tap into sovereign wealth fund opportunities, particularly in the Middle East, while maintaining discretion about its engagements [94][96]. Additional Insights - The company emphasizes the importance of **intelligence in network management**, which aids in troubleshooting and operational efficiency [65][66]. - There is a recognition of the need for **technology refresh cycles** as older infrastructure is updated to meet the demands of AI applications [92][93]. This summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from the Arista Networks conference call, highlighting the company's strategic positioning within the evolving AI networking landscape.

Summary of Pegasystems (PEGA) FY Conference - August 13, 2025 Company Overview - **Company**: Pegasystems (PEGA) - **Industry**: Software, specifically focusing on AI-powered workflow and decisioning platforms for large enterprises Core Points and Arguments 1. **Business Model and Clientele**: Pegasystems primarily serves large enterprises across various sectors, including financial services, health insurance, and government agencies. The company emphasizes the importance of structured workflows and decision-making processes in its offerings [4][8][10]. 2. **AI Integration**: The company has been incorporating AI into its platform since 2010, focusing on statistical AI and more recently generative AI. This integration aims to enhance workflow design and execution, allowing for real-time decision-making [11][12][13]. 3. **Market Positioning**: Pegasystems believes that while some SaaS companies may face challenges due to generative AI, its focus on structured processes and explainable decision-making will protect it from such risks. The company sees generative AI as a tool to enhance its existing capabilities rather than a threat [15][16][20]. 4. **Blueprint Technology**: The introduction of the Blueprint technology has led to over 100,000 blueprints created by customers, indicating strong interest and engagement. This technology is expected to accelerate delivery cycles and improve outcomes for clients [27][28]. 5. **Legacy Application Replacement**: The push from companies like SAP for cloud migration is driving clients to replace legacy systems. Pegasystems positions itself as a solution for businesses needing to modernize their applications [31][32][33]. 6. **Financial Performance and Goals**: The company has transitioned from a perpetual licensing model to a subscription model, with over 50% of its Annual Contract Value (ACV) now from cloud services. The goal is to achieve $700 million in revenue and free cash flow by 2028, with current free cash flow margins approaching 30% [40][43][46]. 7. **Partnerships**: Pegasystems has formed strategic partnerships with AWS and Google to enhance its market reach and capabilities in legacy transformation and modernization [51][52][53]. 8. **Public Sector Opportunities**: The company identifies significant opportunities in the public sector, where many agencies still rely on outdated technology. There is a growing demand for modernization to improve constituent services [58][61][63]. Additional Important Insights 1. **Market Trends**: The top three trends identified in the industry are AI, cloud, and transformation, with a noted connection between AI advancements and the need for digital transformation [37][38]. 2. **Sales Transformation**: Pegasystems has undergone a sales transformation to improve efficiency and effectiveness, contributing to its current financial health [42][43]. 3. **Future Outlook**: The company is optimistic about its unique position in the market, driven by its differentiated technology and the potential for significant growth in various sectors, particularly in government and public services [66][67]. This summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from the Pegasystems FY Conference, highlighting the company's strategic direction, market positioning, and future growth opportunities.

Summary of Kopin (KOPN) FY Conference Call - August 13, 2025 Company Overview - **Company**: Kopin Corporation (KOPN) - **Industry**: Optical display solutions, semiconductor manufacturing - **CEO**: Michael Murray Key Points and Arguments 1. **Transformational Stage**: Kopin is currently in a transformational stage, focusing on application-specific solutions for tier one customers [5][8] 2. **Microdisplay Profitability**: No semiconductor manufacturer in the microdisplay sector is currently profitable, including major players like Sony, Samsung, and LG [6] 3. **Yield Challenges**: The yield rates in microdisplay manufacturing are significantly lower than in other semiconductor sectors, with 25-50% considered good [7] 4. **Partnership with Theon**: Kopin has formed a partnership with Theon International, a $1.7 billion corporation, to enhance production capabilities and profitability [9][11] 5. **Financial Impact of Theon Partnership**: The partnership is expected to add $15 million to Kopin's balance sheet, increasing cash reserves to over $40 million [13] 6. **ESG Strategy**: Kopin has initiated its first ESG strategy, which is crucial for attracting passive ETF flows and aligns with its recent inclusion in the Russell 2000 and 3000 indices [16] 7. **Innovative Microdisplay Technology**: Kopin has developed a new AI-enabled microdisplay that adjusts brightness and contrast dynamically, enhancing user experience [17][22] 8. **Defense Contracts**: Kopin is involved in significant defense contracts, including the Stinger missile program, which could lead to substantial revenue [27][31] 9. **Revenue Projections**: The company anticipates reaching $100 million in revenue by 2027-2028, with 25% expected from international markets [52] 10. **Soldier Borne Mission Command (SBMC)**: Winning the SBMC contract could yield $500-$750 million in revenue over ten years, contingent on successful prototype development [31][56] Additional Important Information 1. **Market Size**: NATO countries are projected to spend over $1 trillion on defense, with the U.S. Department of Defense spending $1.3 billion [41] 2. **R&D Orders**: Kopin is tracking $20 million in research and development orders expected in the current quarter, which is critical for revenue generation [46] 3. **Leadership Transition**: CFO Rich Schneider is retiring, and Eric Manns will take over, marking a significant leadership change [47] 4. **Quality Improvement**: The company has achieved a quality rate of 97%, indicating significant operational improvements [44] 5. **Patents and Technology**: Kopin holds six patents in AI-enabled microdisplays, positioning itself as a leader in this niche technology [42] This summary encapsulates the key insights from the conference call, highlighting Kopin's strategic direction, financial outlook, and technological advancements in the optical display and semiconductor industry.

Summary of Candel Therapeutics (CADL) FY Conference Call - August 13, 2025 Company Overview - **Company**: Candel Therapeutics (CADL) - **Industry**: Biotechnology, specifically focused on cancer immunotherapy Key Points and Arguments Vaccine Approach - Candel's approach involves a novel vaccine strategy that immunizes patients against their own tumors without needing to identify specific antigens [3][4] - Utilizes a replication-defective adenovirus to deliver the HSV thymidine kinase gene, leading to localized enzyme expression and subsequent tumor cell death [4][5] - The process induces a strong pro-inflammatory response, creating optimal conditions for T cell activation against tumors [5][6] Pipeline Focus - Current focus on three main indications: - Early localized nonmetastatic prostate cancer - Borderline resectable pancreatic cancer - Therapy-resistant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) [7][8] Prostate Cancer Data - Positive Phase 3 trial results with a primary endpoint of disease-free survival, showing a 30% improvement in disease-free survival rates [10][12] - Secondary endpoint showed a 38% improvement in prostate cancer-specific disease-free survival [13] - Plans to submit a Biologics License Application (BLA) by 2026 [9][10] Commercial Launch Preparation - Scaling up commercial manufacturing with partner SAFC in California [16][17] - Positive feedback from urologists and radiation oncologists regarding the adoption of CAN 2409 in combination with standard care [18][20] - Initial payer feedback has been favorable, indicating potential cost savings for healthcare systems [21] Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) Data - Focus on patients with unresectable stage 3 or stage 4 NSCLC who have failed standard treatments [23] - Median overall survival of over 24 months in treated patients, doubling the expected survival [24] - Fast track designation received from the FDA based on these results [26][27] Pancreatic Cancer Data - Conducted a small randomized trial showing a median overall survival of over 32 months compared to 12.5 months in the control group [34] - Fast track and orphan drug designations received from the FDA and EMA [35] Manufacturing and Capacity - Manufacturing process involves replication-defective adenoviruses, similar to COVID-19 vaccines, with established industry capacity [38][39] - Product stability confirmed for over ten years under refrigeration [40] Future Directions - Candel is preparing for a potential registrational Phase 3 trial in therapy-resistant NSCLC and pancreatic cancer [27][35] - Ongoing exploration of CAN 3110, a next-generation oncolytic virus for glioblastoma, showing promising early results [42][45] Financial Position - Current cash runway extends into Q1 2027, with upcoming data announcements expected [53] Additional Important Information - Candel emphasizes the importance of a strong scientific rationale and unmet clinical needs in prioritizing its pipeline [36] - The company aims to advance multiple programs in parallel to maximize commercial value [37]

Summary of Merus (MRUS) FY Conference Call - August 13, 2025 Company Overview - Merus is an oncology-focused biotechnology company with a portfolio of clinical assets, including collaborations with partners like Insight, Loxo, and Gilead [4][3] - The company specializes in bispecific and multispecific antibodies, leveraging over a decade of experience in monoclonal antibody development [4][5] Key Product: Pitocetimab - **Pitocetimab** is a bispecific antibody targeting EGFR and LGR5, designed to enhance cancer cell targeting and improve therapeutic efficacy [8][9] - The mechanism of action involves internalization and degradation of EGFR, enhancing the immune response against cancer cells [10][11] Clinical Data Highlights - At ASCO 2025, Merus reported a **63% response rate** in a cohort of 43 patients with recurrent metastatic head and neck cancer treated with pitocetimab in combination with pembrolizumab [13] - The median progression-free survival (PFS) was **9 months**, significantly longer than the **3 months** typically seen with pembrolizumab alone [14] - **Overall survival** data showed that **80%** of patients were alive at 12 months, indicating a substantial improvement over existing therapies [16][34] Regulatory Strategy - Merus plans to pursue **accelerated approval** for pitocetimab in both first-line and second-line settings based on early endpoints like overall response rate (ORR) [17][24] - The company is in discussions with the FDA regarding the Project Front Runner paradigm, which allows for potential approval based on early clinical endpoints [18][22] Future Trials and Enrollment - A randomized trial for second and third-line treatment is ongoing, comparing pitocetimab to investigator's choice therapies, with expected near-complete enrollment by the end of 2025 [20][21] - The first-line trial will randomize pitocetimab plus pembrolizumab against pembrolizumab alone, following successful precedents [24][25] Colorectal Cancer Development - Merus is also exploring pitocetimab in colorectal cancer, with plans to report data in the second half of 2025 [36] - The focus is on genetically wild-type metastatic colorectal cancer, with ongoing cohorts evaluating the drug's efficacy in first, second, and third-line settings [42][44] Market Context - Current therapies for head and neck cancer show response rates of **19-21%** for pembrolizumab alone, and **34-35%** when combined with chemotherapy, highlighting the potential competitive advantage of pitocetimab [15][33] - The company aims to provide broad access to its therapies globally, emphasizing the importance of international registration strategies [45] Conclusion - Merus is positioned as a promising player in the oncology space, with innovative bispecific antibody therapies showing significant clinical efficacy and a strategic approach to regulatory approval and global market access [4][16][45]

Summary of Akebia Therapeutics Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: Akebia Therapeutics - **Key Product**: Vafsio, an oral HIF for treating anemia due to chronic kidney disease (CKD) in dialysis patients Core Points and Arguments 1. **Launch Performance**: - Vafsio generated $12 million in revenue in Q1 and $13.3 million in Q2, reflecting a 55% growth quarter-over-quarter [6][9] - Initial access to approximately 40,000 out of 550,000 dialysis patients in the U.S. [7] 2. **Market Expansion Plans**: - Anticipation of expanding prescribing access to additional dialysis providers, potentially increasing access to 275,000 patients by November [8][9] - Focus on making Vafsio the standard of care for anemia management in dialysis patients [12][48] 3. **Market Opportunity**: - The anemia of CKD market is primarily in the dialysis population, with 500,000 out of 550,000 patients on ESA treatments [11] - Non-dialysis market presents a significant opportunity, with a potential market size comparable to dialysis, but with a higher average price per patient post-TDAPA [38] 4. **Clinical Differentiation**: - Vafsio shows a favorable safety profile with no increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) compared to ESAs [20][21] - Fewer hemoglobin excursions and reduced dose titrations required with Vafsio, enhancing convenience for physicians [22][24] 5. **Patient Compliance**: - Oral administration of Vafsio improves patient compliance compared to injectable ESAs, particularly in home dialysis patients [25][26] 6. **Regulatory and Reimbursement Landscape**: - TDAPA (Transitional Drug Add-on Payment Adjustment) allows for reimbursement outside the bundled payment for dialysis for two years, facilitating the adoption of Vafsio [41][42] - Post-TDAPA, Vafsio will become part of the bundled payment, necessitating a strategic pricing approach to maintain market share [44][46] 7. **Future Studies and Trials**: - Plans to initiate a new study in the non-dialysis population, with a target enrollment of 1,500 patients [40][56] - Ongoing studies (VOICE and VOCAL) to explore alternative dosing regimens [27][60] 8. **Auryxia Update**: - Auryxia, a phosphate binder, lost exclusivity in March but continues to generate revenue without significant marketing efforts [49][50] Additional Important Insights - The dialysis market is valued at approximately $1 billion in the U.S., with significant potential for Vafsio to capture market share [38][45] - The company is focused on aligning with the FDA for future studies to ensure a clear path for product development and market entry [57][60] - The ongoing lack of generic approvals for Auryxia is viewed positively for cash flow, contributing to the company's financial stability [51][52]

Upexi (UPXI) FY Conference Summary Company Overview - Upexi has transitioned from a consumer products company to a Solana-focused treasury company, backed by 15 top digital asset VC firms [2][10] - The company has accumulated over 2,000,000 Solana tokens [2] Core Business Strategy - Upexi aims to become a leading company in the Solana space by utilizing capital markets to efficiently accumulate Solana and stake it for yields [2][10] - The company has raised significant capital, including a $100 million PIPE and a subsequent $200 million capital raise, bringing its portfolio to approximately $400 million [10][11] - Upexi has been acquiring Solana at a discount, particularly from institutions that previously held assets through FTX, which has been beneficial for shareholders [12] Financial Strategy and Yield Generation - Upexi's strategy involves raising capital above book value to expand its treasury, similar to MicroStrategy's approach [20][32] - The company is currently generating an 8% yield on its staked Solana, with additional gains from purchasing locked Solana at a 15% discount [32][33] - Upexi plans to use staking yields to support potential dividends and maintain shareholder value [28][31] Innovative Financial Instruments - Upexi has introduced a unique convertible note structure that allows investors to pledge Solana, providing downside protection while offering potential upside in Upexi stock [61][66] - This structure minimizes credit risk for Upexi, as it does not involve borrowing in dollars, thus avoiding basis risk associated with price fluctuations [66] Market Position and Future Outlook - Upexi is focused on expanding its shareholder base and institutional interest, aiming to reach a billion-dollar portfolio as quickly as possible [31][24] - The company is committed to a buy-and-hold strategy for Solana, intending to stake all acquired tokens and reinvest rewards [51][52] - Upexi's management emphasizes creativity in financial strategies, looking to replicate successful models from established players in the crypto space [29][32] Additional Insights - The management team includes experienced professionals from traditional finance, enhancing Upexi's strategic direction [14][16] - Upexi is actively working on building its market presence and increasing exposure to potential investors [72][74] Conclusion - Upexi's pivot to a Solana-focused treasury model positions it uniquely in the market, leveraging innovative financial strategies to maximize shareholder value while navigating the evolving landscape of digital assets [2][10][74]

Summary of Aurora Cannabis FY Conference Call - August 13, 2025 Company Overview - **Company**: Aurora Cannabis (ACB) - **Industry**: Medical Cannabis - **Market Position**: Leading global medical cannabis producer with significant presence in Canada, Europe, and Australia [2][3] Core Insights and Arguments - **Record Performance**: Fiscal 2025 was a record-setting year for Aurora across multiple financial metrics, with a strong outlook for fiscal 2026 [4] - **Strategic Focus**: The company has strategically focused on medical cannabis, particularly in international markets, leading to higher margins compared to the recreational segment [5][7] - **Market Growth**: The global medical cannabis market is estimated to exceed $5 billion, with significant growth expected from Europe and Australia [5][12] - **Operational Excellence**: Aurora has developed strong operational and commercial capabilities, differentiating itself from competitors [6][12] - **Regulatory Expertise**: The company has built substantial regulatory knowledge, crucial for navigating the tightly regulated medical cannabis markets in Europe and Australia [14][21] Market Insights - **Canada**: The Canadian market is stabilizing, with insights from the recreational segment informing medical product development [9][18] - **Australia**: Aurora holds the number two position in Australia, having acquired a local partner to enhance market access. The market is highly regulated, requiring TGA GMP manufactured products [20][21] - **Germany**: Following recent regulatory changes, patient access is expected to increase, with a growing self-payer segment. Aurora's GMP products maintain high margins in this market [23][25] - **Poland**: Regulatory changes have impacted prescription volumes, but demand remains strong. Aurora has launched high-potency products that are well-received [27][29] - **United Kingdom**: The UK market is expanding with diverse product offerings, including innovative inhalable cannabis extracts [31] - **Switzerland and Austria**: These markets are growing more slowly, but Aurora is focused on partnerships to increase volume and product offerings [33] Investment and Growth Strategy - **Capital Allocation**: Aurora emphasizes profitable growth, positive free cash flow, and strategic M&A opportunities. The company has a strong cash position of $186 million [38][39] - **Market Entry Criteria**: The company evaluates new markets based on regulatory environments, potential for long-term presence, and partnerships with existing distributors [36][37] - **U.S. Market Monitoring**: Aurora does not currently operate in the U.S. but is closely monitoring regulatory developments for potential future entry [41][42] Additional Important Points - **High Margins**: Medical cannabis margins are significantly higher than recreational cannabis, driven by patient willingness to pay for quality products [7][10] - **Patient Demand**: There is a growing acceptance and demand for medical cannabis as a treatment option, particularly in underpenetrated markets [12][24] - **Operational Efficiency**: Aurora's operational efficiencies contribute to its strong cash flow and profitability [10][39]

Summary of Insight Enterprises Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: Insight Enterprises - **Industry**: Technology Solutions and Services Core Strategy and Financial Performance - Insight Enterprises positions itself as a **solutions integrator**, combining hardware, software, cloud, and services expertise to deliver business outcomes for customers, particularly in the context of AI [4][5] - The company aims for **above-market profitable growth**, focusing on high-growth areas such as cloud, data, AI, and cybersecurity [6] - Gross margins improved from **14.7% in 2022** to **over 20%** in the most recent quarter, driven by a favorable mix of higher-margin cloud and services business [7][8] - Cash flow generation has been strong, exceeding **$600 million** in the last two years, with a target of **greater than 90% of net income** [11][34] Market Positioning - Insight differentiates itself from traditional systems integrators (SIs) by targeting the **corporate and mid-market space**, which is often underserved [18][20] - The company has a large existing customer base, including relationships with **most Fortune 5,000 companies** [14] - Insight has built a strong technical portfolio with over **6,000 technical resources** and more than **100 patents** [9][14] Challenges and Adjustments - The company faces a **$70 million gross profit headwind** due to changes in partner programs from Google and Microsoft, which have shifted focus away from enterprise resale to corporate and mid-market segments [27][43] - Despite this, the underlying growth of the cloud business remains strong, with a **17% year-over-year growth** in the first half of the year [30] M&A Strategy - M&A is a critical part of Insight's strategy, with several key acquisitions over the years to enhance capabilities in areas like application development and data center transformation [35][36][39] - Recent acquisitions include **SADA**, a significant partner in the Google ecosystem, and **InfoCenter**, a ServicesNow-focused company, which bolster Insight's service offerings [40][41] Future Outlook - For FY 2025, gross profit is expected to be approximately flat due to the aforementioned headwinds and a challenging hardware market [42][43] - The company maintains a focus on **operating expense leverage** and cash flow generation, with guidance for **EPS between $9.70 and $10.10** [48] AI Integration - Insight is leveraging AI to enhance service delivery and operational efficiency, allowing for scaling in the corporate and mid-market space without proportional increases in labor costs [56][60] - The company is focused on three areas regarding AI: customer offerings, service delivery, and internal operations [61] Conclusion - Insight Enterprises is strategically positioned as a solutions integrator with a strong focus on profitable growth, leveraging partnerships and M&A to enhance its service capabilities while navigating challenges in the cloud and hardware markets. The integration of AI is seen as a key driver for future scalability and efficiency.