Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue for the second quarter reached $1.1 billion, with constant currency revenue supported by a 12.1% increase in system-wide comparable sales, exceeding blended inflation for the period [5][6] - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $110.1 million, with a growth of over 7% excluding last year's labor contingency reduction in Brazil, and a margin expansion of approximately 40 basis points [7][16] - The net debt to adjusted EBITDA ratio was 1.4 times, indicating a strong balance sheet [20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Brazil's total revenue in constant currency grew by 2%, with positive comparable sales despite negative industry volumes [13] - NOLAD's total revenue rose by 6.9% in constant currency, with comparable sales growth of 1.8 times blended inflation [14] - SLAD's revenue increased by 37.8% in constant currency, with comparable sales up 1.4 times blended inflation [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Digital sales accounted for over 70% of system-wide sales in Brazil, with the loyalty program surpassing 18 million members, contributing to 26% of total sales [13] - In Mexico, comparable sales grew by 12.4%, significantly outperforming main competitors [14] - Argentina's market share continued to expand, with strong performance driven by local marketing initiatives [15][66] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to open 90 to 100 new Experience of the Future restaurants in 2025, with 32 openings in the first half of the year [8][21] - The strategic focus includes enhancing customer experience, modernizing development processes, and preparing for future market demands [24][25] - The company emphasizes collaboration with stakeholders to maintain leadership and drive growth [26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The management acknowledged a challenging macroeconomic environment in Brazil but expressed confidence in maintaining market share and improving margins through targeted pricing and marketing initiatives [32][36] - The outlook for the second half of the year remains cautious, with expectations of continued pressure on consumer confidence [36][82] - Management is optimistic about the recovery of margins as consumer trends improve [60] Other Important Information - The company has received an investment-grade rating from S&P, which is expected to support future capital market transactions [20] - The acquisition of three existing restaurants and exclusive franchise rights in Saint Martin is part of the growth strategy, with no material change expected in consolidated results from this acquisition [21][78] Q&A Session Summary Question: How does the company assess the balance between foot traffic, pricing, product mix, and profitability in Brazil? - The company managed to deliver positive comparable sales by offsetting a drop in traffic with targeted price increases and product mix, focusing on average check rather than volume [32] Question: What are the preliminary insights on demand trends in July for Brazil and Mexico? - Brazil continues to face a challenging environment, while Mexico had a strong quarter with sales growth driven by various channels [36][37] Question: Can you elaborate on which regions contributed most significantly to top line and margin performance in NOLAD? - NOLAD showed strong performance, particularly in Mexico, with sales growing at 1.8 times inflation and margin improvements despite currency challenges [41][42] Question: How does management see beef prices evolving in the second half of the year in Brazil? - Management does not expect significant cost pressures from beef prices in the second half, with recent appreciation of the Brazilian real potentially benefiting gross margins [51][52] Question: What is the nature of Francisco Statement's new role as Chief Strategy Officer? - Francisco will focus on developing long-term strategies across the business, leveraging his extensive experience in various leadership roles [86]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a 95.2% increase in sales, reaching approximately $32.6 million for Q2 2025, compared to approximately $16.7 million for Q2 2024 [4][11] - Gross profit rose over 80% to approximately $9.9 million, with a gross profit margin of 30.3% for Q2 2025, down from 32.8% in Q2 2024 [4][12] - Net income for Q2 2025 was approximately $643,000, compared to a net loss of approximately $1 million for Q2 2024 [4][13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The core Strand business segment generated $21.8 million in revenue during Q2 2025, reflecting continued expansion among customers [5][11] - The Loyalty Solutions segment contributed $10.8 million in revenue for Q2 2025, demonstrating successful integration efforts [5][12] - Gross profit margin for the Strand segment was 34.9%, while the SLS segment operated at 21% [5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company maintained approximately $18.1 million in cash, cash equivalents, and investments as of June 30, 2025, providing strong liquidity for strategic initiatives [9][14] - The company was recognized as the twelfth leading promotional product distributor in North America, up from the previous year [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to continue its top-line growth through organic growth and strategic acquisitions while managing costs effectively [20][24] - The addition of new board members with relevant expertise reflects the company's commitment to operational excellence and long-term competitiveness [8][9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to accelerate growth and deepen client partnerships, particularly in the second half of the year, which is historically strong due to holiday sales [20][21] - The company is focused on disciplined capital deployment and long-term value creation for shareholders [16][17] Other Important Information - The company repurchased over 110,000 shares during Q2 2025, demonstrating a commitment to maximizing shareholder value [10] - The company is now fully compliant with all NASDAQ continuing listing requirements following its annual general meeting [9] Q&A Session Summary Question: Outlook for the second half and expectations for organic growth - Management is excited about changes made to focus on existing customers and expanding offerings, with 30% organic growth in Q2 and over 20% for the first half of the year [19][20] Question: Plans for stock buybacks - The company has authorized a $10 million share buyback program and executed less than $4 million in Q2, with plans to continue buying back stock at reasonable prices [22][24]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved a semester production of 751,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day, the highest level in a decade, despite a challenging environment marked by high volatility and declining crude prices [4][17] - Revenue and profits were impacted by a 22% decline in RIM compared to 2024 [7] - The company declared efficiencies totaling COP 2.2 billion, exceeding the semester's target by 27% [8] - The total projected investment for the upstream segment is $4 billion, with $3.6 billion allocated for production and $400 million for exploration [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the upstream segment, domestic crude oil production reached 517,000 barrels per day, the highest since 2021, driven by fields like Canisur and the acquisition of CPO-nine [17] - The midstream segment saw a 9% increase in EBITDA compared to the first half of 2024, despite a 6% decrease in transported volumes [20] - The downstream segment reported a 52% increase in EBITDA compared to the same period in 2024, with throughput reaching 413,000 barrels per day [22][23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved the best quarterly crude differential in the past four years, thanks to a diversified basket and active marketing strategy [7] - The integrated gross refining margin reached $12.5 per barrel, a 37% increase compared to 2024 [25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to maintain competitiveness through an integrated strategy based on maximizing high-value products, portfolio diversification, operational efficiency, and sustainability [26] - The company continues to advance its TESG agenda, expecting to exceed the goal of 900 megawatts in renewable energy generation by 2025 [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the challenges posed by geopolitical tensions and third-party disruptions but emphasized the company's resilience and operational adaptability [4][8] - The company remains committed to generating value and competitive returns, having completed full dividend payments to shareholders [8] Other Important Information - The company signed an agreement to acquire its first wind project, marking a key step towards carbonization and reducing energy costs [6] - The company reported a reduction of 242,000 tons of CO2 equivalent emissions, contributing to its decarbonization efforts [9] Q&A Session Summary Question: Production peak and expectations for the rest of the year - The company reached a peak production of 165,000 barrels per day due to improved drilling performance and anticipates an average production of 90,000 to 190,000 barrels per day for the rest of the year [63][64] Question: Disinvestment of assets - The company evaluates its asset portfolio regularly and is considering disinvestment in non-core assets to increase investments in hydrocarbon sectors [68][69] Question: Breakeven EBITDA for upstream business - The company stated that 99% of its fields have breakevens below $50 per barrel, allowing for strategic investment decisions without harming production and reserves [72]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Gold sales totaled approximately 8,400 ounces for the quarter, an increase over the prior year period, with total revenue from gold sales rising to approximately CAD28 million, driven by higher ounces sold and a higher average realized gold price of CAD3,301 per ounce [21][22] - The company concluded the quarter with a net loss position of CAD0.05 per share, primarily due to the ramp-up and development stage of operations [21] - Cash position was approximately CAD134 million at the end of the second quarter, a significant increase from the previous quarter due to net proceeds from equity offerings [22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - At Granite Creek Underground, mining volumes during the second quarter were ahead of the prior year period, with approximately 24,000 tonnes of oxide material mined at a gold grade of 11.4 grams per tonne [12] - Company-wide, the expectation is to extract between 30,000 to 40,000 ounces of gold in 2025, including 20,000 to 30,000 ounces from Granite Creek and approximately 10,000 ounces from heap leach pads [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has a significant resource base with 6.5 million ounces of measured and indicated gold resources and 7.5 million ounces of inferred resources, along with approximately 100 million ounces of silver [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to establish itself as a Nevada-focused mid-tier gold producer, with a clear three-phase build-up in average annual target production to over 600,000 ounces of gold by the early 2030s [7][8] - The first phase focuses on high-grade underground projects, with expected production increasing from less than 50,000 ounces per year to a target of 150,000 to 200,000 ounces by 2028 [7] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving steady-state production at the first mine and advancing infill drill programs to support upcoming feasibility studies, indicating a transformative period for the company in the next twelve to eighteen months [24] - The management highlighted the importance of the Lone Tree processing facility refurbishment, which is expected to significantly increase recovery rates and payability on refractory material [19] Other Important Information - The company raised gross proceeds of CAD186 million through a bought deal offering and private placement to strengthen its balance sheet and fund development plans [22] - The company is pursuing the sale of non-core assets and potential royalty sales to enhance liquidity [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expectations for tons and grades at Granite Creek - Management indicated that ore tonnes have not been affected by water issues and are on track for development [28][30] Question: Timeline for dewatering and waste development - Management stated that meaningful progress is expected once dewatering wells and water treatment facilities are in place, anticipated by the end of the year [30] Question: Autoclave refurbishment CapEx - The expected CapEx for the refurbishment is in the range of CAD350 million to CAD400 million, with final numbers to be confirmed soon [54] Question: Revenue expectations for Q3 and Q4 - Management expects total production for the year to be between 30,000 to 40,000 ounces, with a potential step change in production in the latter half of the year [46][47] Question: Recapitalization and liquidity - The recapitalization plan aims to address existing liabilities and fund the autoclave refurbishment, with potential liquidity from asset sales [48][49] Question: Updates on drilling results at Granite Creek - Early results from the South Pacific zone are consistent with expectations, with preliminary results anticipated in early September [59]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue grew by 13.8% to $60.3 million, with organic revenue growth of 10.6% [5][11] - Adjusted EBITDA increased by 40.7% to $15.1 million, with margins expanding to 25.1% [5][14] - Total written premiums rose by 14.4% to $450.3 million [5][9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Insurance services grew by 16.5% to $55 million, while TWFG MGA grew by 2.7% to $1.6 million [9] - Renewal business within insurance services increased by 16.1%, while new business grew by 17.8% [10] - MGA experienced a shift with renewal business growing by 8.1%, while new business growth declined [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The personal lines market is softening, with expanding carrier capacity and moderating rate increases [6][29] - Retention rate remained at 89%, consistent with long-term averages [7][11] - Certain regions, such as Florida and Louisiana, are experiencing price deceleration, while Texas remains stable [35][36] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company focuses on four strategic pillars: expanding national footprint, investing in agent productivity, enhancing technology infrastructure, and deepening carrier relationships [7] - AI-driven tools are being piloted to improve efficiency and responsiveness [8] - The company is actively pursuing M&A opportunities to support growth [16][50] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expects moderate rate increases in 2025 and is monitoring potential tariff impacts on costs [7] - The company remains confident in its ability to deliver long-term value despite a moderating rate environment [46] - Guidance for 2025 includes organic revenue growth of 11% to 14% and adjusted EBITDA margins between 21% and 23% [16][42] Other Important Information - Net income for the quarter was $9 million, up 30.1% year-over-year [14] - The company has $160 million in cash and a fully available credit revolver, providing flexibility for investments [16] Q&A Session Summary Question: Profit margins this quarter - Management explained that lower commission expense is due to lower commission revenues, with corporate store acquisitions contributing to margin expansion [19][20] Question: Changes in organic growth expectations - Management noted that the market conditions have softened, leading to more options for customers and impacting organic growth [28][30] Question: M&A contribution to revenue - Management clarified that M&A contributions depend on the timing of asset onboarding, with expectations for increased contributions in the second half of the year [48][50] Question: Future EBITDA margin expansion - Management indicated that continued EBITDA margin expansion is feasible, depending on future acquisitions and operational efficiencies [53][54] Question: MGA business and competition - Management discussed the competitive landscape in the E&S home insurance market and its impact on MGA's trajectory, noting that their core program remains stable [66][68]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q2 2025, the company generated revenues of $130 million, a decrease of 12% compared to the same period last year, primarily due to customers halting new business and canceling committed fixtures [5][6] - EBITDA for the quarter was $72 million, with adjusted EBITDA of $60 million after excluding a $12 million book gain from the sale of Navigator Venus, indicating resilience in the business [5][12] - Earnings per share was €0.31, and the company maintained a strong cash position of $287 million at the end of the quarter [6][16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Average Time Charter Equivalent (TCE) rates were $28,216 per day, lower than the approximately $30,000 achieved in previous quarters, with utilization at 84%, also down from prior quarters [7][14] - The ethylene spot fleet was most affected, while the semi-refrigerated fleet performed better [8][12] - Throughput at the joint venture ethylene export terminal rebounded to 268,000 tonnes for the quarter, more than three times Q1 but still below full capacity [8][45] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Handysize ethylene twelve-month time charter rate remained steady at around $36,000 per day, while semi-refrigerated rates dipped to about $30,000 per day, and fully refrigerated rates fell to $25,000 per day [25] - LPG exports from Iraq to Asia increased, contributing positively to the company's performance despite geopolitical challenges [10][28] - July utilization rates improved to 90%, indicating a return to more normal trading conditions [29] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on fleet renewal by selling older vessels and acquiring modern tonnage, with plans to sell additional older vessels in the future [9][50] - The strategic emphasis is on diversifying the fleet to mitigate risks associated with market volatility, particularly in the petrochemical and LPG sectors [26][28] - The company aims to strengthen its position in the ammonia supply chain through new vessel orders and associated time charter contracts [8][50] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the geopolitical backdrop in Q2 was challenging but expressed optimism for Q3, expecting a return to previous operational levels [4][57] - The company anticipates continued growth in U.S. export infrastructure, which will support demand for the products transported [57] - Management highlighted the importance of a diversified customer base and operational efficiency in navigating geopolitical uncertainties [10][11] Other Important Information - The company completed a $50 million share repurchase program, buying back 3.4 million shares at an attractive price [6][41] - The balance sheet remains strong, with significant liquidity and a focus on returning capital to shareholders [17][20] - The company was included in the Russell 2000 and Russell 3000 indices, enhancing its trading liquidity and shareholder base [46][48] Q&A Session Summary Question: Outlook for Q3 and normalization of business - Management indicated that Q3 is expected to return to levels seen before Q2 disruptions, with utilization rates already improving [61][65] Question: Terminal contracts and capacity - Management refrained from disclosing specific details about contracted capacity but confirmed ongoing discussions with potential customers for additional long-term contracts [67][68] Question: Impact of tariffs and trade deals - Management expressed optimism that recent trade deals would provide clarity and stability for U.S. commodity exports, positively impacting business [85][87] Question: Financing for new builds and IMO regulations - Management is exploring various financing options for new builds and aims to secure favorable terms, while also considering the implications of new environmental regulations [88][92]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4, Chili's same store sales increased by 24%, outperforming the casual dining industry by 189 basis points, following a 15% increase in the same quarter last year, resulting in a two-year comp of 39% [5][36] - Total revenue for the year grew by 21.9%, surpassing $5 billion for the first time, with adjusted EPS growth of 117.1% [36][41] - Restaurant operating margin improved from 11.9% in fiscal 2022 to 17.6% in fiscal 2025 [6][13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Chili's reported top line sales growth with comps at 23.7%, driven by positive traffic of 16.3%, positive mix of 4.7%, and price increase of 2.7% [37] - Maggiano's reported comp sales for the quarter of negative 0.4%, indicating challenges in that segment [38] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Chili's has consistently outperformed the casual dining industry for seven consecutive quarters in terms of traffic [6] - The average annual volume (AUV) at Chili's increased from $3.6 million to over $4.5 million [36][41] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on a turnaround strategy that emphasizes food, service, and atmosphere, with a streamlined menu and improved operational efficiency [12][18] - Plans for fiscal 2026 include continued investment in marketing, menu management, and a barbell pricing strategy to maintain value while offering premium options [42][43] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in sustaining growth, with expectations for continued positive same store sales and traffic above industry averages [36][44] - The company plans to ramp up reimaging programs for both Chili's and Maggiano's, aiming for a 10% annual refresh rate of restaurants [22][88] Other Important Information - The company has significantly improved its balance sheet, repaying over $570 million in debt over the past three years, resulting in a lease adjusted leverage ratio of 1.7 [16][41] - A new Vice President of Restaurant Development has been appointed to lead reimaging and new restaurant openings [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on restaurant margins and Maggiano's turnaround - Management clarified that margin expansion is expected to be around 30 to 40 basis points, with some inflation in the cost of sales line [50][51] - The turnaround for Maggiano's will focus on core guest preferences, emphasizing food quality and service [53] Question: Future growth targets and marketing investments - Management indicated that while the current growth targets remain relevant, there may be updates as new unit growth ramps up [59][61] - Marketing investments will continue to be around 3% of total revenues, with plans for new value messaging [66][68] Question: Expectations for same store sales components - Pricing is expected to be closer to 3% in fiscal 2026, with flat mix and positive traffic anticipated [75][81] - The company is seeing growth across all income levels, maintaining frequency among new guests [82][83] Question: STORE Reimage plans - The company plans to reimage four restaurants initially, with evaluations to inform future investments and expected sales lifts [87][89]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a strong balance sheet with over $20 million in cash after replacing a $7 million loan and closing a $10 million equity financing [7][8] - The company eliminated $14 million of short-term liabilities, including $2.5 million in the current quarter [8] - The average revenue per user (ARPU) increased from $3 to over $5, with expectations to reach closer to $7 in the future [29][30] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - PodcastOne reported record revenues of $15 million for the quarter, with a run rate projected to exceed $60 million for the year [11] - The company has 75 additional B2B deals in progress, with significant partnerships expected to drive revenue growth [11] - The company converted 1.3 million out of 2 million Tesla subscribers to paying users, indicating a strong conversion rate [12][29] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company anticipates $50 million in B2B revenues over the next twelve months, which includes both Slacker and PodcastOne [20][22] - The company is experiencing significant growth in ad revenue, with ad growth in Tesla cars increasing from 30% to 82% [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on B2B partnerships, including a major deal with a Fortune 500 company that could drive over 30 million paying subscribers [9][44] - The company is exploring M&A opportunities and has received multiple inbound calls regarding potential sales or partnerships [56][57] - The company is advancing its Web3 initiatives, including a Bitcoin yield strategy and NFT monetization [13][58] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in recovering from past revenue losses and achieving substantial growth over the next three to five years, targeting 10 million subscribers and $500 million in revenues [17][82] - The management highlighted the excitement and energy within the team, emphasizing their commitment to overcoming challenges and capitalizing on new opportunities [84] Other Important Information - The company has launched a reality series that is expected to generate significant revenue, with a format similar to the Olympics [15][105] - The company is actively working on monetizing its extensive video content library, which is seen as a major growth opportunity [88][90] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the annualized revenue of all currently signed partnerships? - The company expects $50 million in B2B revenues, which includes both Slacker and PodcastOne [20][22] Question: What does EBITDA look like with the recent staff reductions? - The company cannot provide specific EBITDA guidance but confirmed that staff cuts were made across the board, including at Slacker [23][24] Question: How many ad-supported users are there in addition to the 1.3 million Tesla subscribers? - The 1.3 million figure represents total conversions, with over 1.5 million total subscribers currently [29] Question: Can you elaborate on the new Fortune 500 B2B deal? - The deal involves a white label solution that will be marketed to over 30 million paying members [44][45] Question: What is the company's digital currency strategy? - The company is implementing a Bitcoin yield strategy and plans to increase its digital currency exposure [72][73] Question: When will the Q3 report be released? - The company is on track to file the report soon [108]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported second quarter 2025 revenues of $1,973 million, up from $1,626 million in 2024, reflecting a year-over-year growth of approximately 21.3% [6][7] - GAAP gross margin remained stable at 24% compared to the same quarter in 2024, while non-GAAP gross margin was also consistent at 24.4% [7][8] - GAAP operating income increased to $157.8 million (8% of revenues) from $116.5 million (7.2% of revenues) in 2024, indicating improved profitability [8] - Non-GAAP diluted EPS rose to $3.23 in 2025 from $2.08 in 2024, showcasing significant earnings growth [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Aerospace revenue increased by 12% year-over-year, driven by higher sales of precision guided munitions in Israel and Asia Pacific [12] - C4I and fiber revenues grew by 21% year-over-year, primarily due to sales of radio systems and command and control systems in Israel and Europe [13] - Land revenues surged by 45% in 2025, attributed to increased sales of ammunition and munitions in Israel and Europe [13] - IStar and EW revenues rose by 15%, mainly due to electro-optical system sales in Israel and electronic warfare system sales in Europe [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In 2025, Europe contributed 29% to total revenues, North America 21%, Asia Pacific 13%, and Israel 34% [7] - The order backlog as of June 30, 2025, was $23.8 billion, reflecting a 12% increase from the corresponding quarter in 2024 [6][14] - Approximately 68% of the current backlog is from international orders, with 46% scheduled for delivery in 2025 and 2026 [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to utilize proceeds from a recent share offering of $573 million to support future business growth and expand production capacity [17] - There is a focus on mergers and acquisitions to acquire new technologies and expand global reach [17] - The company aims to enhance its operational capabilities and market presence, particularly in Europe, through significant new contracts [21][22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in continued strong financial performance, with internal targets indicating double-digit growth for 2026 [37] - The geopolitical situation in the Middle East has increased demand for defense solutions, positioning the company favorably in the market [53][58] - Management highlighted the importance of operational experience and a wide portfolio in meeting customer needs and driving growth [56][58] Other Important Information - The company declared a dividend of $0.75 per share, a 50% increase from the previous year, reflecting strong financial performance [15] - The effective tax rate decreased to 5.6% in 2025 from 13.2% in 2024, primarily due to increased deferred tax assets [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Margin expansion outlook for the second half of the year - Management indicated a commitment to margin expansion through operational leverage and new ERP systems, aiming for continued improvement [28] Question: Updates on IronBeam and supply chain for SRMs - The company is developing high-power laser sources for IronBeam, with initial deliveries expected soon and strong interest from international customers [29][30] Question: Year-to-date growth and outlook for 2026 - Management confirmed internal targets for mid-teens growth in 2025 and double-digit growth for 2026, supported by a strong backlog [36][37] Question: Sustainability of land segment growth - The land segment is expected to continue growing due to high demand for various products, including ammunition and advanced systems [40][41] Question: Future development plans for UAS counter-drone measures - The company is actively developing the RidgeOne system, which combines various technologies and has seen successful exports to NATO countries [48][50] Question: Capital expenditure expectations for 2025 - The running rate for capital investments is around $250 million, with potential increases based on recent funding [51] Question: Impact of geopolitical positioning on demand - The company is experiencing increased demand for defense solutions and is well-positioned to offer advanced capabilities to international customers [53][58]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the first half of 2025, the company generated $967 million in revenue and $203 million in adjusted profit before tax, representing a 27% increase year-on-year [5][16] - The second quarter saw adjusted profit before tax of $106 million, up 16% year-on-year and 10% sequentially [5][36] - Margins expanded to 21% in the first half, up from 20.2% last year [36] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Clearing revenues grew 12% to $139 million in Q2, with adjusted profit before tax increasing 2% to $71 million [37] - Agency and execution revenues surged 59% to $261 million, with adjusted profit before tax more than tripling to $69 million [38] - Market making revenue declined 17% to $57 million, while hedging solutions revenue fell by 15% to $20 million [39][40] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced strong growth in agency and execution, particularly in securities and energy, with energy revenues up 31% to $92 million [38] - The overall market environment was mixed, with some segments facing challenges due to tariff announcements and elevated prices [40] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on growth through acquisitions, with a strong M&A pipeline expected in the second half of the year [9][19] - The acquisition of Cowen has significantly boosted revenue, with Cowen's revenue now running above $200 million on an H1 run rate basis [8][17] - The company aims to increase its public float, successfully reducing the residual position of pre-IPO private equity shareholders from 64% to 17% [10][20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to manage risks and maintain strong liquidity, with $2 billion in surplus liquidity at the end of the quarter [10][19] - The company anticipates some headwinds from potential rate reductions but believes it can offset these through continued growth [83] Other Important Information - The company issued $500 million in senior notes in May to strengthen its liquidity position [19] - The firm has maintained an unqualified audit opinion from Deloitte for ten consecutive years, reflecting strong governance and financial practices [32][34] Q&A Session Summary Question: What was the free cash flow for the quarter and the last twelve months? - The net cash increased by $779 million in the first half of 2025, totaling $3.329 billion [67][71] Question: Can you discuss expense synergies and operational efficiencies from recent acquisitions? - Most synergies have been captured, with future expectations leaning more towards revenue synergies rather than cost synergies [76] Question: Where do you see sustainability in the business as exchange volumes soften? - Management sees strength across all business segments, with a strong performance in July and opportunities for continued growth despite potential headwinds [82][84]