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BGC(BGC) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-12 16:02
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - BGC Group reported record-breaking revenues for both the fourth quarter and full year 2025, with increases of 32% and 30% respectively, approaching $3 billion in total revenues [4] - Adjusted EPS grew by 24% under GAAP and 19% for adjusted earnings, with adjusted EPS rising by 71% to $1.18 per share since 2022 [4][7] - Pre-tax adjusted earnings grew by 24.5% to $161.3 million, representing a pre-tax margin of 21.3% [18] - Post-tax adjusted earnings increased by 21.1% to $149.6 million, resulting in a post-tax adjusted earnings per share of $0.31 [18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total brokerage revenues grew by 34.6% to $694.6 million, with ECS revenues increasing by 92% to $257.5 million, driven by the acquisition of OTC and strong organic growth [9] - Rates revenues increased by 16.4% to $197.4 million, while foreign exchange revenues rose by 9.8% to $102.8 million [10] - Fenics revenues increased by 15.4% to a record $163.9 million, driven by higher electronic volumes across rates products [11] - FMX UST generated record fourth quarter average daily volume of $58.7 billion, increasing market share to a record 39% [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - EMEA revenue increased by 39.2%, Americas revenues increased by 25.7%, and Asia Pacific revenues increased by 24.2% [16] - FMX Futures Exchange saw record volumes in open interest, with ADV and open interest increasing 82% and 97% respectively compared to the previous quarter [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company completed the first phase of its cost reduction program, expected to realize $25 million of annualized savings in 2026 [5][17] - BGC aims to focus on higher growth areas within its portfolio, having sold lower growth businesses to enhance shareholder value [28] - The company is positioned for continued success in 2026, with guidance indicating a revenue growth expectation of approximately 34% for the first quarter [20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's growth trajectory, citing strong market share gains and a favorable trading environment [25] - The outlook assumes no material acquisitions or dispositions, with expectations subject to change based on macroeconomic factors [3] - Management highlighted the importance of volatility in driving business growth, particularly in the energy sector [39] Other Important Information - The company anticipates pre-tax adjusted earnings for the first quarter of 2026 to be in the range of $202 million to $222 million, representing over 32% earnings growth [20] - Liquidity as of December 31 was $979.1 million, compared to $897.8 million at year-end 2024 [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Inquiry about first quarter guidance and organic revenue growth - Management noted that core revenue growth has been consistent, driven by market share gains and a favorable trading environment [25] Question: Discussion on the sale of KACE and future divestitures - Management indicated that the sale was driven by shareholder value considerations and that they remain open to future divestitures if they do not meet growth expectations [28] Question: Inquiry about new client growth in the energy segment - Management confirmed an increase in new players entering the energy market, contributing to growth in the ECS business [34] Question: Question regarding FMX futures revenue recognition and treasury futures - Management stated that changes in fee structures for FMX futures will occur in the summer, and treasury futures will follow the success of SOFR [42][43] Question: Inquiry about additional fixed income products within Lucera - Management indicated that Lucera is expanding into credit markets, which could significantly contribute to future revenue growth [48]
Crane NXT(CXT) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-12 16:02
Crane NXT (NYSE:CXT) Q4 2025 Earnings call February 12, 2026 10:00 AM ET Company ParticipantsAaron Saak - CEOChristina Cristiano - CFOMatt Roache - VP of Investor RelationsConference Call ParticipantsBobby Brooks - Equity Research AnalystIan Zaffino - Equity Research AnalystMatt Summerville - Equity Research AnalystMichael Halloran - Equity Research AnalystRobert Labick - Equity Research AnalystOperatorGood day, everyone, and welcome to Crane NXT fourth quarter and full year 2025 earnings call. At this time ...
Ameren(AEE) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-12 16:02
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported adjusted earnings of $5.03 per share for 2025, representing an 8.6% increase from the adjusted earnings of $4.63 per share in 2024 [4][28] - The company affirmed its 2026 earnings per share guidance range of $5.25 to $5.45, indicating an expected growth of approximately 8.1% compared to the original 2025 earnings guidance midpoint [17][24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Weather-normalized sales at Ameren Missouri grew by 1% overall, with residential and commercial classes growing by 0.5% and 1.5% respectively [29] - The company invested over $4 billion in electric, natural gas, and transmission infrastructure, including the installation of nearly 26,000 electric distribution poles and 283 miles of upgraded transmission and distribution lines [6][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company signed 2.2 GW of large load electric service agreements in Missouri, which is expected to support significant economic development opportunities [4][20] - The economic impact study indicated that the company's operations in Missouri and Illinois generate over $20 billion in annual economic activity [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to focus on a three-pillar strategy: investing in rate-regulated infrastructure, advocating for constructive regulatory frameworks, and optimizing business operations [6] - The company plans to invest approximately $5.5 billion in electric, natural gas, and transmission infrastructure in 2026 to enhance the reliability and responsiveness of the energy grid [14][32] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to deliver strong returns and maintain disciplined cost management, with a focus on keeping rates low for customers [11][81] - The company anticipates continued earnings growth near the upper end of the 6%-8% range from 2026 through 2030, supported by the recent large load electric service agreements [45][60] Other Important Information - The company achieved $20 million in recurring O&M savings from energy delivery process improvements over the past two years [29] - The company expects to maintain a dividend payout ratio of approximately 50%-60%, with a recent quarterly dividend increase of 5.6% [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the 2.2 GW of executed ESAs and how it impacts guidance? - Management indicated that the 2.2 GW of executed ESAs represents upside to the sales growth embedded in the 6%-8% guidance, providing greater confidence in achieving the upper end of that range [41][45] Question: How do you view the use of hybrid securities in your financing plan? - Management noted that hybrid securities might be slightly accretive in the short term, but the overall impact would need to be evaluated over time [47][48] Question: What is the breakdown of the lag between rate base growth and earnings growth? - Management explained that the primary difference is due to equity dilution from planned issuances, and that sales growth from hyperscalers could help reduce this lag [53][56] Question: Are there concerns about potential cancellations of ESAs? - Management expressed no concerns regarding the ESAs, emphasizing the protective provisions in place for customers [59][61] Question: How does the updated plan impact customer bills, particularly in Missouri? - Management highlighted a focus on affordability and disciplined cost control, ensuring that new data centers pay their fair share without burdening existing customers [79][80]
CONSOL Energy (CEIX) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-12 16:02
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q4 2025, the company reported a net loss of $79 million, or $1.54 per dilutive share, and adjusted EBITDA of $103 million, which includes $25 million of fire and idle costs from Leer South and $11 million from West Elk [13][14] - For the full year 2025, the net loss was $153 million, or $2.98 per dilutive share, with adjusted EBITDA of $512 million, impacted by $101 million related to Leer South fire and idle costs and $11 million from West Elk idle costs [15][16] - The company returned a total of $245 million to stockholders in 2025, constituting nearly 100% of free cash flow generation [8][9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Leer South mine resumed longwall mining in mid-December 2025 after a combustion event in early 2025, achieving its production target in January 2026 [5][6] - The West Elk mine transitioned to the B seam, which has shown significantly improved mining conditions, and is expected to run at high productivity levels in 2026 [7][8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. utility coal consumption increased by 12% in 2025 compared to 2024, with coal-fired generation in the PJM and MISO areas rising over 19% and 15%, respectively [16][17] - Global coal demand rose by approximately 0.5% to 8.9 billion metric tons in 2025, indicating a multi-year growth pattern [18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on capturing synergies from the merger, operational excellence across its segments, and establishing a safety-driven culture [4][5] - The company plans to return approximately 75% of free cash flow to shareholders, with a significant portion directed to share repurchases and a quarterly dividend of $0.10 per share [8][9] - The company is also advancing efforts in rare earth elements and critical materials, with ongoing projects in the PRB and Northern Appalachia [25][26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the operational performance for 2026, expecting strong results from both Leer South and West Elk mines [27][28] - The company anticipates a reduction in idling costs and an increase in insurance recovery compared to 2025, contributing to improved financial performance [24][28] Other Important Information - The company is benefiting from supportive coal policies under the current administration, including a production tax credit for coal and delayed retirements of coal-fired generation units [10][11] - The company is optimistic about the growth in demand for coal driven by the expansion of data centers, particularly in the Americas [17][18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you break out the high CV committed and priced for the PAMC portion? - The company has approximately 20.5 million tons committed for high CV, with 12 million domestic and 8.5 million for export, linked to API2 pricing [33][34] Question: What is the outlook for the order book in outer years? - The company contracted over 38 million tons last quarter, with pricing in contango for forward years [38][39] Question: What does the 45X credit mean for shareholder returns? - The company expects higher insurance proceeds and a reduction in idling costs, which will positively impact cash flow and shareholder returns [40][44] Question: How are synergies showing up in the P&L? - Synergies are primarily seen in headcount reductions and improved marketing and logistics, but overall market conditions have impacted their full realization [51][52] Question: What tangible steps have been taken to improve operational delivery for 2026? - The company has all assets running and has implemented schedule changes and production strategies to enhance efficiency [90][91]
MSA Safety rporated(MSA) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-12 16:02
MSA Safety (NYSE:MSA) Q4 2025 Earnings call February 12, 2026 10:00 AM ET Company ParticipantsBrian Brophy - DirectorJulie Beck - Board of DirectorsLarry De Maria - Executive Director of Investor RelationsMike Shlisky - Managing DirectorStephanie Sciullo - President, Americas SegmentSteve Blanco - President and CEOConference Call ParticipantsJeff Van Sinderen - Equity AnalystRob Mason - Senior Research AnalystRoss Sparenblek - AnalystNone - AnalystOperatorGood day, and welcome to the MSA Safety Fourth Quart ...
Primerica(PRI) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-12 16:02
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Primerica reported a record year in 2025 with a 10% increase in adjusted net operating income to $751 million and a 16% increase in diluted adjusted operating income per share to $22.92 [5][14] - The company achieved a 16% increase in fourth quarter adjusted net operating income and a 22% increase in diluted adjusted operating income per share [4] - The return on adjusted equity (ROAE) increased by 200 basis points to 33.1% [14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Term life insurance sales faced challenges with a 10% decline in new policies issued for the full year compared to record levels in 2024, while estimated annualized issued term life premiums declined by 7% [8][10] - Investment and savings product (ISP) sales reached $4.1 billion in the fourth quarter, a 24% increase year-over-year, and total sales for the year were $14.9 billion, also up 24% [9][10] - The term life operating margin remained stable at 21.5% for the fourth quarter [17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Client asset values increased by 15% to $129 billion, supported by annual net inflows of $1.7 billion [11] - The company ended the year with nearly 3,500 licensed representatives in the U.S. who closed over $500 million in mortgage loans, a 26% increase year-over-year [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Primerica aims to grow across all major product lines while strengthening recruiting and licensing to expand its distribution footprint [12] - The company is optimistic about the opportunities in 2026, focusing on accelerating momentum and improving productivity through targeted sales training [9][13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that cost of living pressures are easing, which may improve purchasing power for middle-income families, potentially leading to increased term life sales [30][46] - The company maintains a conservative outlook for full-year policy growth in 2026, projecting a 2%-3% increase in term life sales [9][18] Other Important Information - Primerica returned approximately 79% of net operating income to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends, indicating a disciplined approach to capital deployment [23] - The company is investing in technology and training to enhance productivity and support growth in its ISP segment [81][83] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is driving the term sales outlook of 2%-3% growth for 2026? - Management anticipates increasing momentum as economic conditions improve, particularly for middle-income families [29][31] Question: Why are term life and ISP showing diverging trends? - Different segments of the middle-income market react differently to economic conditions, with ISP benefiting from money in motion towards retirement accounts [32][33] Question: What is the potential impact of AI on the business model? - AI is seen as an opportunity to improve efficiencies and workflows, enhancing the sales process without threatening the relationship-based model [39][43] Question: What distractions are being observed in the middle market? - Economic pressures and uncertainties have been distractions, but there are signs of improvement in purchasing power [45][46] Question: How is the sales force growth outlook for 2026? - Management is confident in the ability to grow the sales force, with a focus on recruiting and retaining representatives [57][59] Question: What is the expense outlook for 2026? - The company expects consolidated expenses to grow around 7%-8% for the full year [21][81]
Essential Properties(EPRT) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-12 16:02
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported GAAP net income of $68.3 million and AFFO of $99.7 million for Q4 2025 [3][4] - AFFO per share totaled $0.49, representing a 9% increase compared to Q4 2024 [14] - The company increased its 2026 AFFO per share guidance range to $1.99-$2.04, implying a growth rate of about 7% at the midpoint and 8% at the high end [6][17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company executed $296 million in investments during Q4 2025, with an average initial cash yield of 7.7% and a GAAP yield of 9.1% [5][11] - Same-store rent growth was 1.6%, with occupancy at 99.7% and a robust rent coverage of 3.6 times [6][8] - Disposed of 19 properties for $48.1 million at a 6.9% weighted average cash yield, reducing exposure to the car wash industry to 13.7% [9][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company ended the quarter with investments in 2,300 properties leased to over 400 tenants, maintaining a weighted average lease term of approximately 14 years [7] - Tenant concentration declined, with the top 10 tenants comprising only 16.5% of ABR [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to focus on middle-market operators and has established a dominant position as a real estate capital provider [4] - The investment strategy remains differentiated, sourcing 85% of investments through existing relationships while adding new operator relationships [5] - The company expects modest cap rate compression in the latter half of 2026, with competition stabilizing [7][21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the health of the portfolio, citing better-than-expected credit trends and a strong investment pipeline [21][22] - The company anticipates that the stabilization in competition will help drive earnings without changing its investment strategy [24][25] - Management noted that the current macro environment has not materially shifted their underwriting approach [82] Other Important Information - The company declared a cash dividend of $0.31 in Q4 2025, resulting in an AFFO payout ratio of 63% [15] - Retained free cash flow after dividends reached nearly $40 million in Q4 2025, providing a source of internally generated capital for future growth [16] Q&A Session Summary Question: Changes in guidance range - Management noted that the guidance range was adjusted due to better-than-expected portfolio credit trends and same-store rent growth [21][22] Question: Impact of competition stabilization - Management clarified that stabilization in competition has resulted in a slower decrease in cap rates, which is beneficial for earnings [24][25] Question: Acquisition trends and drivers - Management indicated that the strong start to the year in acquisitions was partly due to deal slippage from Q4, but emphasized that it is still early in the year [31][32] Question: Portfolio credit events - Management confirmed that the only notable credit event was related to American Signature, which is expected to recover within normal ranges [36][37] Question: Dividend growth expectations - Management stated that while they expect dividends to grow, the decision will ultimately be made by the board [39][40] Question: Cap rate stabilization across industries - Management confirmed that cap rate stabilization is observed across all industries they invest in, with no significant deviations [32][33] Question: Future investment pipeline - Management expressed confidence in the investment pipeline, indicating that the opportunity set is not a constraint for future growth [96]
Howmet Aerospace(HWM) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-12 16:02
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Q4 revenue reached $2.17 billion, up 15% year-over-year, while full-year revenue increased by 11% [5] - EBITDA for Q4 was $653 million, a 29% increase, and full-year EBITDA was $2.42 billion, up 26% [5][10] - Operating income for Q4 was $580 million, reflecting a 34% increase, with earnings per share (EPS) of $1.05, a 42% increase for the quarter and a 40% increase for the year [5][6] - Free cash flow for the year was a record $1.43 billion, with a conversion rate of 93% of net income [5][11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Commercial aerospace revenue grew 13% in Q4 and 12% for the full year, driven by demand for engine spares and a record backlog for new aircraft [7][8] - Defense aerospace revenue increased by 20% in Q4 and 21% for the full year, with engine spares up 32% [7][8] - Commercial transportation revenue was up 4% in Q4 but down 5% for the full year, impacted by higher aluminum costs [8] - Gas turbine revenue surged 32% in Q4 and 25% for the full year, driven by demand for electricity generation [9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The commercial aerospace market is experiencing robust growth, particularly in Asia Pacific and North America, with a record OEM backlog [23] - The defense market remains strong, particularly for the F-35 program, with increasing demand for spares [25] - The gas turbine market is entering a significant growth phase, with expectations for revenue to double over the next 3-5 years [26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on investing for growth, with a capital expenditure of $453 million in 2025, primarily in the engines business [11][13] - Recent acquisitions, including CAM and Bruner, are aimed at enhancing product offerings and entering new markets [30][91] - The strategy emphasizes capital allocation to high-return businesses while maintaining strong cash generation [30][75] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in continued growth across commercial aerospace, defense, and gas turbines, with expectations for increased aircraft builds [23][24] - The company anticipates that the commercial truck wheel segment will stabilize and begin to grow in the latter half of 2026 [27] - Future capital expenditures are expected to remain high, with a focus on improving yield and efficiency in production [42][43] Other Important Information - The company redeemed all outstanding shares of preferred stock for $55 million, simplifying its capital structure [12][21] - The company has a strong liquidity position with a cash balance of $743 million and a $1 billion revolver [11][12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Future growth expectations for engine products - Management sees robust growth in commercial aerospace, defense, and gas turbines, with significant demand for new builds and spares [36][39] Question: Margin sustainability - Management indicated that while current margins are strong, predicting future margins is challenging due to various factors, including new investments and labor costs [47][49] Question: Capital deployment strategy - The company is balancing capital deployment for growth opportunities with share buybacks and M&A, indicating a disciplined approach to investments [74][75] Question: Gas turbine revenue potential - Management does not foresee gas turbine revenue exceeding commercial jet engine revenue but acknowledges significant growth potential in the gas turbine market [81][82]
Exelon(EXC) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-12 16:02
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For 2025, the company reported adjusted operating earnings per share of $2.77, exceeding expectations and continuing a track record of exceeding the midpoint of guidance each year as a standalone utility [6][17] - The company achieved a 7.4% annual earnings growth rate and 8% rate base growth through 2025, demonstrating its ability to navigate changes and execute consistently [7][13] - The company reported GAAP earnings of $2.73 per share for the full year and $0.58 for the fourth quarter, reflecting strong year-over-year growth [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company maintained top quartile reliability metrics across its utilities, ranking first, second, fourth, and seventh among peers based on 2024 benchmarking data [7] - The company plans to invest $41.3 billion in capital over the next four years, with over 70% of the increase driven by transmission investments [10][24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Anticipated load growth in the company's jurisdictions is expected to exceed 3% through 2029, supported by a large load pipeline and increasing signed transmission security agreements [11][12] - The company has seen robust demand in its jurisdictions, with a focus on addressing high supply prices and emerging reliability risks [15][32] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on executing its capital plan efficiently while maintaining industry-leading operational performance to benefit customers [40] - The company emphasizes affordability and has implemented a $60 million customer relief fund to support low and moderate-income customers facing higher supply costs [14] - The company is actively engaging with federal, RTO, and state leaders to address supply challenges and improve affordability [15][33] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to lead the energy transformation and meet unprecedented demand, highlighting a culture of continuous improvement and innovation [5][16] - The company expects to initiate operating earnings guidance of $2.81-$2.91 per share for 2026, reflecting a commitment to disciplined cost management and operational excellence [13][19] Other Important Information - The company has achieved significant progress on the regulatory front, including final settlements for key rate cases and the filing of ComEd's second multi-year grid plan [10][21] - The company plans to maintain a balanced funding strategy, targeting credit metrics of 14% over the planning period to provide financial flexibility [38] Q&A Session Summary Question: Comments on rate-based growth and financing lag - Management noted that the company has achieved actual rate base growth of about 8% and earnings growth of 7.4%, indicating a continuation of this track record [46][51] Question: Regulatory strategy for 2026 in Pennsylvania - Management is in constant conversations with stakeholders and is considering the best approach for regulatory filings in Pennsylvania while prioritizing affordability and reliability [49][50] Question: Supply challenges and RBA process at PJM - Management emphasized the importance of engaging with regulators and supporting the development of reliability backstop options to improve supply and lower customer costs [54][55] Question: Legislative conversations on affordability - Management confirmed active engagement in legislative discussions across multiple jurisdictions to address affordability and support low-income customers [70] Question: Incremental financing costs and capital opportunities - Management confirmed a commitment to maintaining a 40% equity funding strategy for incremental capital opportunities while managing financing costs [90]
Curtiss-Wright(CW) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript
2026-02-12 16:02
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales for Q4 2025 reached $947 million, a 15% increase year-over-year, with organic growth of 11% and contributions from the I&C Solutions acquisition [4][5] - Operating income increased by 14%, with an operating margin of 19.7% [5][6] - Diluted earnings per share grew by 16% year-over-year, driven primarily by higher A&D sales [5][6] - Free cash flow was strong at $315 million, up 13%, reflecting a 224% conversion rate [6] - For the full year 2025, diluted earnings per share increased by 21%, and adjusted free cash flow reached a record $554 million [7][8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Aerospace & Industrial segment sales increased by 5%, with strong OEM sales growth in commercial aerospace [12][13] - Defense Electronics segment saw a 17% sales growth, driven by increased demand for tactical communications equipment and embedded computing revenues [14][15] - Naval & Power segment sales increased by 21%, primarily due to strong revenue growth in naval defense and contributions from the I&C Solutions acquisition [15][16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - A&D markets experienced a 16% growth, with commercial aerospace sales increasing by over 20% [5][9] - The overall order book reached a record of $4.1 billion, up 10% year-over-year, with a book-to-bill ratio of nearly 1.2 times [8][10] - Commercial nuclear market showed tremendous growth, driven by strong demand for aftermarket equipment and advancements in SMR designs [9][21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to execute its "Pivot to Growth" strategy, focusing on operational and commercial excellence to drive sales and profitability [4][10] - Investments in research and development are being accelerated to support future organic growth, with a commitment to grow R&D faster than sales over time [7][10] - The company is well-positioned to benefit from increased global defense spending and the U.S. government's focus on nuclear energy dominance [32][36] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to deliver strong performance in 2026, projecting organic sales growth of 6%-8% [10][11] - The outlook for A&D markets includes anticipated growth driven by U.S. defense budget priorities and increased demand for secure embedded computing solutions [18][20] - Management acknowledged potential headwinds in ground defense due to delays in orders but remains optimistic about future opportunities [8][19] Other Important Information - The company executed a record $465 million in share repurchases in 2025 and increased its annual dividend for the ninth consecutive year [10] - Capital expenditures are expected to increase by more than 25% year-over-year, reflecting ongoing investments to support growth [29][30] Q&A Session Questions and Answers Question: Exposure to missile programs and growth opportunities - The company has minor exposure to missile programs, primarily in telemetry and flight test instrumentation, but is well-positioned in related areas such as the Iron Dome [43][44] Question: Clarification on expected AP1000 orders - Orders could come from either European customers or the U.S., with Westinghouse as the primary customer; specifics on order size are not available at this time [46][47] Question: Free cash flow guidance and working capital dynamics - The company has improved working capital management, targeting a working capital percentage of sales of approximately 18% for 2026, which would be a record [55][57] Question: C-17 order timing and defense electronics bookings - The C-17 order is a Q1 order, and delayed bookings in defense electronics were noted, impacting the book-to-bill ratio [60] Question: Operational and commercial excellence initiatives - The Operational Growth Platform has contributed approximately $12 million to the P&L in 2025, with ongoing initiatives expected to continue driving margin expansion [68][72]