Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue grew 84% year-over-year, reaching $5.1 million for the quarter [4][9] - Net income reported at $6.8 million, marking a significant improvement [10] - Stockholders' equity turned positive to $21.7 million, an increase of nearly $60 million since year-end 2024 [4][10] - Total assets increased to $77.6 million from $60.9 million as of June 30, 2025 [10][11] - Cash and restricted cash at quarter-end totaled $46.2 million, including $23.1 million in cash and cash equivalents [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Commissions were the largest revenue contributor at just over $3 million, with clearing fees and stock locate-related activity also contributing significantly [9] - The operational performance of Wilson-Davis as the core clearing engine showed continued strength across commissions and clearing-related activities [6][7] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The current market environment is becoming increasingly constructive, with greater engagement from broker-dealers and financial institutions focusing on operational efficiency and modernization [4][5] - Firms are expanding their focus beyond traditional equities into a wider range of products and services, emphasizing flexibility and capital efficiency [4] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to build a modern, technology-enabled financial infrastructure platform for smaller and mid-sized institutions [3] - Priorities include enhancing the client experience, increasing operational consistency, and scaling responsibly [12] - The proposed acquisition of Commercial Bancorp of Wyoming is part of the strategy to create a full licensing platform, combining correspondent clearing services with banking services [13][28] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the company's position entering 2026, highlighting a strengthened balance sheet and operational momentum [15] - The focus is on execution, delivering for clients, and expanding thoughtfully to build a platform for long-term growth [12][15] Other Important Information - The company has significantly simplified its capital structure, with a current outstanding share count of approximately 150 million shares [17] - Regulatory capital has been strengthened, with a threshold of $10.5 million that must be maintained [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: What does the fully diluted share count look like today? - The current outstanding share count is approximately 150 million shares, with potential additional shares from warrants and convertible notes [17] Question: How should investors think about corporate liquidity versus regulatory capital? - The company maintains a regulatory capital threshold of $10.5 million and has increased its regulatory capital significantly [18] Question: At what revenue level does the clearing business begin to generate consistent operating leverage? - The operating costs are around $14 million, and once covered, the company expects to achieve significant operating leverage [19][20] Question: What is the expected ramp timeline for new introducing brokerage firms? - The company is optimistic about onboarding new clients quickly, with expected positive revenue impacts in the coming quarters [21][23] Question: Can you provide an update on the proposed Commercial Bancorp acquisition? - The company is preparing to file for regulatory approval, with expectations for a quicker approval process than initially anticipated [24][25][28]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue grew 84% year-over-year, reaching $5.1 million for the quarter [4][9] - Net income reported at $6.8 million, marking a significant improvement [4][10] - Stockholders' equity turned positive to $21.7 million, an increase of nearly $60 million since year-end 2024 [4][10] - Total assets increased to $77.6 million from $60.9 million as of June 30, 2025 [10] - Cash and restricted cash at quarter-end totaled $46.2 million, including $23.1 million in cash and cash equivalents [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Commissions were the largest revenue contributor at just over $3 million for the quarter, with clearing fees and stock locate-related activity also contributing meaningfully [9] - The operational performance of Wilson-Davis as the core clearing engine showed continued strength across commissions and clearing-related activities [6][7] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The current market environment is becoming increasingly constructive, with greater engagement from broker-dealers and financial institutions focusing on operational efficiency and modernization [4][5] - The demand for flexible and efficient clearing infrastructure is growing among smaller and mid-sized institutions [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to build a modern, technology-enabled financial infrastructure platform for smaller and mid-sized institutions [3] - Priorities include enhancing the client experience, scaling responsibly, and advancing the full AtlasClear vision, including the proposed acquisition of Commercial Bancorp of Wyoming [12][13] - The focus is on execution, delivering for clients, and building a platform designed for long-term growth [15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the company's position entering 2026, highlighting a strengthened balance sheet and operational momentum [15] - The regulatory environment is perceived to be improving, potentially accelerating the approval process for the Commercial Bancorp acquisition [25] Other Important Information - The company has significantly simplified its capital structure over the past year, with a current outstanding share count of approximately 150 million shares [17] - The acquisition of Commercial Bancorp is expected to create a full licensing platform, enhancing service offerings [27][28] Q&A Session Summary Question: What does the fully diluted share count look like today? - The current outstanding share count is approximately 150 million shares, with potential additional shares from warrants and convertible notes [17] Question: How should investors think about corporate liquidity versus regulatory capital? - The company maintains a regulatory capital threshold of $10.5 million and aims to keep cash above $15 million for operational flexibility [18] Question: At what revenue level does the clearing business begin to generate consistent operating leverage? - The operating costs are around $14 million, and once covered, the company expects to achieve significant operating leverage [19][20] Question: What is the expected ramp timeline for new introducing brokerage firms? - The company anticipates that new correspondent clearing clients will onboard quickly, with measurable revenue impacts expected over the next few quarters [21][23] Question: Can you provide an update on the proposed Commercial Bancorp acquisition? - The company is preparing to file its application with the Fed, with expectations for a quicker approval process than initially anticipated [24][25][30]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company produced results at the high end of its 2025 guidance range, but guidance for 2026 reflects ongoing category challenges and inflationary pressures [4] - The expected category decline is around 4%, with an additional 150 basis points of pressure from an extra week in the previous year [28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The traditional loaf segment, particularly the Nature's Own brand, has been underperforming, which is a key focus area for revitalization [9][22] - The company is conducting a comprehensive review of its brand portfolio and supply chain to enhance efficiency and growth [8][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The competitive environment remains stable, with no significant changes in production capabilities among competitors [72] - Price per unit in the category increased slightly, likely due to a shift towards premium products [73] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on navigating near-term challenges while laying the foundation for sustainable long-term growth [4] - A comprehensive review of operations, including brand portfolio and supply chain, is underway to strengthen execution and expand margins [4][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges the challenges posed by inflation and category performance but remains optimistic about the potential for growth in the traditional loaf segment [4][25] - The company is committed to maintaining a strong balance sheet and evaluating capital allocation, including the dividend policy [12][33] Other Important Information - Maintenance CapEx is estimated at around $2 million per bakery per year, with additional investments planned for growth initiatives [56] - The company is optimistic about Simple Mills, expecting double-digit growth in the upcoming year despite some disruptions in Q4 [59] Q&A Session Summary Question: Details on the comprehensive review of brands and operations - Management is in the early stages of a thorough review, focusing on brand support and investment needs, particularly for the Nature's Own brand [8][9] Question: Capital allocation and dividend policy - The company is reviewing its capital structure and dividend policy in light of its overall strategy and financial health [12][33] Question: Stabilizing the traditional loaf market - Management believes there is potential for stabilization and growth in the traditional loaf segment through strategic investments and innovation [22][25] Question: Impact of SNAP budget reductions and debt refinancing - The company is monitoring the effects of reduced SNAP budgets and is confident in its ability to refinance upcoming debt maturities [38][40] Question: Supply chain review and potential bakery consolidation - The review includes evaluating bakery operations and leveraging technology for efficiency, with ongoing assessments of production capabilities [48] Question: Changes in competition and promotional strategies - The competitive landscape remains stable, and the company is cautious with promotional activities, focusing on trial and repurchase rather than volume gains [75]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company produced results at the high end of its 2025 guidance range despite ongoing category challenges and inflationary pressures [4] - The guidance for 2026 reflects a downtrend in the category, with expectations of a 4% decline [28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The traditional loaf segment, particularly the Nature's Own brand, has been underperforming, which is a key focus area for revitalization [9][22] - The company is conducting a comprehensive review of its brand portfolio and supply chain to enhance efficiency and support growth [8][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The competitive environment in the fourth quarter was normal, with no major changes in bakery consolidation reported [72] - Price per unit in the category increased slightly, likely due to a mix shift towards premium products [73] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on navigating near-term challenges while laying the foundation for sustainable long-term growth [4] - A comprehensive review of operations, including brand portfolio and supply chain, is underway to strengthen execution and expand margins [4][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges the challenges posed by inflation and a changing consumer landscape, particularly in the traditional loaf category [4][22] - There is optimism about the potential for growth in the Nature's Own brand, given its high loyalty and awareness [24] Other Important Information - The company remains committed to maintaining a strong balance sheet and is evaluating its capital allocation strategy, including the dividend [12][33] - Maintenance CapEx is expected to be around $2 million per bakery per year, with additional investments planned for growth initiatives [56] Q&A Session Summary Question: Details on the comprehensive review of brands and operations - Management is in the early stages of a thorough review of the brand portfolio and operational efficiency, focusing on areas needing investment [8][10] Question: Capital allocation and dividend considerations - The company is reviewing its capital structure and dividend in light of its overall strategy and financial health [33] Question: Stabilizing the traditional loaf market - Management believes there is a path to stabilize the traditional loaf segment through targeted investments and innovation [24][25] Question: Impact of SNAP budget reductions and debt refinancing - The company is monitoring the effects of reduced SNAP budgets and is confident in its ability to refinance upcoming debt maturities [38][40] Question: Simple Mills sales performance and margin impacts - Sales were affected by inventory issues and input costs, but management remains optimistic about future growth for Simple Mills [59][64] Question: Competitive landscape and promotional strategies - The competitive environment remains stable, with a focus on delivering products that meet consumer demands while managing promotional activities prudently [75][76]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4 2025, revenue grew 43% year-over-year to nearly $2 billion, with Adjusted EBITDA reaching $343 million, four times the prior year period [5][14] - Adjusted EBITDA margin expanded by over 1,000 basis points year-over-year to 17% [5][14] - For the fiscal year 2025, revenue increased 27% year-over-year to above $6 billion, and Adjusted EBITDA more than tripled to over $600 million [7][17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fantasy revenue increased as Pick6 began to scale [14] - Sportsbook revenue increased over 30% year-over-year, with a standout Q4 where revenue rose 64% year-over-year to $1.4 billion [15] - iGaming revenue grew by 20% due to expanded offerings [15] - Lottery revenue benefited from a stronger jackpot environment and the rollout of new games [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sportsbook handle increased 11% year-over-year to $54 billion, with a total potential payout across all open wagers of $2.5 trillion [16] - In January, Sportsbook handle increased 4% year-over-year, despite two consecutive months of Sportsbook-friendly outcomes [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on the predictions market as a significant growth opportunity, expecting to capture a $10 billion annual gross revenue opportunity [10] - Plans to integrate Railbird and launch a market-making division to enhance customer experience and liquidity [12][13] - The company aims to lead the predictions category while maintaining strong positions in existing markets [10][11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the growth potential of the predictions market, citing a stable regulatory environment as a key factor [22][23] - The company anticipates continued revenue and Adjusted EBITDA growth for many years, with a focus on customer acquisition and retention [8][17] - Management acknowledged the importance of optimizing promotional spending and improving customer monetization [40][68] Other Important Information - The company repurchased 16 million shares during the fiscal year and plans to remain active in share repurchases as Adjusted EBITDA grows [5][17] - The company reported positive net income for the first time, indicating improved operational efficiency [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Discussion on prediction markets and investment confidence - Management highlighted regulatory clarity from the CFTC as a significant factor in their increased focus on prediction markets, viewing it as a major growth opportunity [22][23] Question: Guidance on revenue deceleration - Management explained that the guidance reflects a conservative approach, with expectations for sports betting handle and promotional strategies factored in [25][26] Question: Competitive environment and promotional intensity - Management characterized the current promotional environment as rational, with no significant uptick in promotional activity from smaller operators [71][86] Question: Customer demographics in prediction markets - Management noted that prediction market players tend to be from states like California and Texas, resembling existing customer profiles [90][91] Question: Impact of promotional spending on revenue - Management indicated that promotional spending would be strategically managed, with flexibility to adjust based on customer acquisition and retention metrics [88][86]

Sixth Street Specialty Lending (NYSE:TSLX) Q4 2025 Earnings call February 13, 2026 08:30 AM ET Company ParticipantsBo Stanley - CEOBrian McKenna - Director of Equity ResearchCami Senatore - Head of Investor RelationsFinian O'Shea - DirectorIan Simmonds - CFOKen Lee - VPPaul Johnson - VPRobert Dodd - DirectorRoss Bruck - Managing Director and Head of Investment StrategyConference Call ParticipantsRick Shane - Managing Director and Senior Equity Research AnalystSean-Paul Adams - Research AnalystOperatorGood m ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global system-wide sales declined 8.3% in Q4, driven by a significant drop in U.S. sales and a tough comparison with the previous year's SpongeBob collaboration [7][30] - Total company adjusted EBITDA was $113.3 million, and adjusted EPS was $0.16 for the fourth quarter [8][33] - For the full year 2025, global system-wide sales decreased by 3.5%, highlighting the need for operational and marketing changes [8][9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. same-restaurant sales fell 11.3% in Q4, primarily due to reduced marketing spend and traffic decline, although average check increased [30] - U.S. company-operated restaurants outperformed the broader U.S. system by 410 basis points, driven by operational improvements [30] - International business saw system-wide sales growth of 6.2% in Q4, marking its 21st consecutive quarter of growth [7][32] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - International expansion remains a priority, with 59 new locations opened in Q4, contributing to an 8.1% increase in system-wide sales for the full year [8][10] - The company achieved net unit growth of over 9% internationally, with 121 new restaurants opened in 2025 [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is implementing "Project Fresh," focusing on brand revitalization, operational excellence, system optimization, and disciplined capital allocation [12][13] - The strategy aims to restore Wendy's as the highest quality choice in the QSR sector, with a focus on improving customer engagement and menu offerings [15][17] - The company is shifting its marketing approach to emphasize everyday value rather than limited-time promotions, with new platforms like Biggie Deals [16][50] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges that 2025 was a challenging year but emphasizes the importance of laying a foundation for future growth [8][12] - The outlook for 2026 is a rebuilding year, with expectations for flat global system-wide sales and improved U.S. same-restaurant sales as initiatives take effect [26][28] - The company anticipates adjusted EBITDA between $460 million and $480 million for 2026, reflecting the impact of system optimization and increased G&A expenses [28][37] Other Important Information - The company returned $330 million to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases, an increase of over $48 million from the prior year [11][34] - The company generated $205 million of free cash flow for the full year, enabling strategic investments while returning capital to shareholders [11][34] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on marketing and menu initiatives for the turnaround - Management expressed confidence in the turnaround plan, emphasizing the importance of brand revitalization and operational excellence [47] Question: Details on customer segmentation study findings - The study revealed that many customers seek quality upgrades, particularly in hamburgers, and highlighted the importance of snacking occasions [58] Question: Sentiment among franchisees regarding the turnaround strategy - Franchisees appreciate the flexibility and communication from management, recognizing the need for improved franchisee economics [76]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a strong income growth of 12%, with total income reaching GBP 16.4 billion, exceeding guidance of around GBP 16.3 billion [4] - Earnings per share grew 27% to GBP 0.68, while dividends per share increased 51% to GBP 0.325 [3] - The cost-income ratio improved to 48.6%, down 4.8 percentage points from the previous year [11] - The Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio stood at 14%, reflecting a 40 basis points increase from the prior year [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Customer loans increased by 5.6% to GBP 392.7 billion, driven by growth in mortgages and unsecured lending [6] - Customer deposits rose 2.4% to GBP 442 billion, with retail banking deposits increasing by GBP 7.8 billion or 4% [8] - Assets under management (AUM) grew nearly 20% to GBP 58.5 billion, with net flows of GBP 4.6 billion up 44% [8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company maintained a strong position in the UK market, being the largest bank for business, with growth across various sectors including social housing and project finance [6] - The average Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) was 147%, indicating a comfortable surplus over minimum requirements [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to achieve disciplined growth with a focus on key customer segments and enhancing customer engagement [34] - Plans include leveraging simplification and investing in AI to drive growth and improve productivity [34] - The target for 2028 includes growing customer assets and liabilities at an annual rate greater than 4% and reducing the cost-income ratio to below 45% [35] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expects moderate growth in the macro environment for 2026, with a terminal bank rate projected at 3.25% [11] - The company anticipates a loan impairment rate below 25 basis points for 2026, reflecting a normalization in impairments [75] - There are no significant signs of stress across the business, and management remains confident in the performance of the loan book [13] Other Important Information - The company successfully completed its 2025 funding plan with GBP 7.1 billion in benchmark issuance [16] - Credit ratings improved, with Fitch upgrading the rating of NatWest Group PLC to A plus and S&P raising the rating to A-minus [32] Q&A Session Summary Question: How do you think about risk appetite and quantum of RWAs that can be optimized? - Management highlighted the execution of SRT transactions leading to significant RWA optimization and sees potential for further transactions in 2026 and 2027 [37][38] Question: How do you set the leverage buffer target in relation to the capital target or the RWA framework? - Management indicated that risk weights are expected to be the binding constraint moving forward, rather than leverage [51] Question: What is driving the impairment change guidance to 25 basis points? - Management explained that the guidance reflects a normalization in impairments and growth in the loan book, particularly in unsecured lending [74]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a strong income growth of 12%, with total income reaching GBP 16.4 billion, exceeding guidance of around GBP 16.3 billion [4] - Earnings per share grew 27% to GBP 0.68, and dividends per share increased 51% to GBP 0.325 [3] - The cost-income ratio improved to 48.6%, down 4.8 percentage points from the previous year [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Customer loans increased by 5.6% to GBP 392.7 billion, driven by growth in mortgages and unsecured lending [6] - Customer deposits rose by 2.4% to GBP 442 billion, with retail banking deposits increasing by 4% [8] - Assets under management (AUM) grew by nearly 20% to GBP 58.5 billion, with net flows up 44% [9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company added 1 million new customers during the year, indicating broad-based growth across its three business lines [2] - The net interest margin increased by 21 basis points to 234 basis points, primarily due to deposit growth and margin expansion [4] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to grow customer assets and liabilities at an annual rate greater than 4% from 2025 to 2028, while reducing the cost-income ratio to below 45% [34] - There is a focus on leveraging simplification and investing in AI to drive growth and improve customer experience [34] - The company plans to manage its balance sheet and risk effectively, with an emphasis on dynamic pricing and advanced data analytics [34] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expects moderate growth in the macro environment for 2026, with unemployment peaking at levels comfortable for lending risk appetite [11] - The guidance for loan impairment rates is set to be below 25 basis points, reflecting a normalization in impairments and growth in the loan book [75] - The company remains confident in its ability to generate capital and maintain a strong capital position, with a CET1 ratio of 14% [17] Other Important Information - The company successfully completed its 2025 funding plan with GBP 7.1 billion in benchmark issuance [16] - Credit ratings improved, with Fitch upgrading all rated entities and S&P raising the rating of NatWest Group PLC to A-minus [32] Q&A Session Summary Question: How do you think about risk appetite and quantum of RWAs that can be optimized? - Management highlighted the execution of SRT transactions and the potential for further transactions in 2026 and 2027 to optimize capital and risk profile [37][38] Question: How do you set the leverage buffer target in relation to the capital target or the RWA framework? - Management indicated that risk weights are expected to be the binding constraint moving forward, rather than leverage [51] Question: What is driving the higher impairment change guidance to 25 basis points? - Management explained that the guidance reflects a normalization in impairments and growth in the loan book, particularly in unsecured lending [75]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global system-wide sales declined 8.3% in Q4, driven primarily by the U.S. business, with U.S. same-restaurant sales down 11.3% [7][31] - Total adjusted revenue for Q4 was $439.6 million, a decrease of $19.7 million compared to the prior year [34] - Adjusted EBITDA was $113.3 million, down $24.2 million versus the prior year [34] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. company-operated restaurant margin was 12.7%, declining due to lower traffic and inflation [34] - International business saw system-wide sales growth of 6.2% in Q4, marking its 21st consecutive quarter of growth [7][33] - U.S. digital sales grew 2% year-over-year, with the digital mix reaching an all-time high of 20.6% in Q4 [32] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - International expansion remains a priority, with 59 new locations opened in Q4, contributing to strong sales in markets like Canada and Mexico [8][10] - The company anticipates continued robust net unit growth in international markets, expecting a similar number of new units in 2026 as in 2025 [29] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on Project Fresh, which includes brand revitalization, operational excellence, system optimization, and disciplined capital allocation [12][13] - A new marketing and menu approach is being implemented, emphasizing everyday value and quality, with a structured calendar for new product launches [16][19] - The company plans to close approximately 5%-6% of U.S. restaurants to optimize performance and improve franchisee economics [25][75] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges that 2025 was a challenging year but emphasizes the importance of laying a foundation for future growth [8][12] - The outlook for 2026 is a rebuilding year, with expectations for global system-wide sales to be approximately flat and U.S. same-restaurant sales to improve throughout the year [28][29] - Management is optimistic about the operational improvements and customer satisfaction scores, which are expected to drive better performance [9][20] Other Important Information - The company returned $330 million to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases, an increase of over $48 million from the prior year [11][36] - Free cash flow for the full year was $205 million, enabling strategic investments while returning capital to shareholders [11][36] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on marketing and menu initiatives for the turnaround - Management expressed confidence in the turnaround plan, emphasizing the importance of brand revitalization and operational excellence [50] Question: Details on customer segmentation study findings - The study revealed that many customers seek quality upgrades, particularly in hamburgers, and highlighted the importance of snacking occasions [61] Question: Sentiment among franchisees regarding the turnaround strategy - Franchisees appreciate the flexibility and communication from management, recognizing the need for improved franchisee economics [80]