Parker-Hannifin (NYSE:PH) FY Conference Transcript
2026-02-18 17:02
Summary of Parker-Hannifin FY Conference Call Company Overview - Parker-Hannifin Corporation has been in the motion control space for 109 years and is guiding for $21 billion in sales for the fiscal year 2026, with sales exposure split across various segments: 31% aerospace, 30% filtration and engineered materials, 20% flow and process control, and 17% motion systems [2][3] Core Business Segments - The company has a diversified portfolio with significant exposure to aerospace and defense, plant and industrial equipment (20%), transportation (15%), and off-highway (13%) [4][5] - Two-thirds of the portfolio is sold to customers purchasing from four or more technology platforms, indicating strong interconnectivity and customer reliance on multiple offerings [3] Financial Performance - Parker-Hannifin has achieved a 6% CAGR in revenue over the past 10 years, with a margin expansion of 1,150 basis points and EPS growth of 16% CAGR [7] - The company has added five companies to its portfolio, contributing to 40% of EPS growth, and is looking forward to the acquisition of the Filtration Group [8] Market Dynamics - The aerospace segment has shown double-digit organic growth for three consecutive years, while the industrial side has recently turned positive after two years of negative growth [9][10] - Positive trends are noted in in-plant and industrial equipment, mining, construction, and energy sectors, while transportation remains challenging [10][11] Strategic Initiatives - The "Win Strategy" has been pivotal in driving growth, margin expansion, and cash flow generation, with decentralized operations allowing for individual P&L accountability [5][6] - The company is focusing on longer-cycle business opportunities, with a record backlog indicating strong future demand [31] Automation and Technology - Parker-Hannifin is investing in automation within its facilities and is seeing similar trends among customers, particularly in robotics and material handling applications [38][41] - The company emphasizes a balanced approach to automation, focusing on efficiency and waste reduction before implementing large-scale automation [38] Acquisition Strategy - The company has a robust acquisition pipeline, with a focus on businesses that have a history of faster growth than legacy operations. The integration of Curtis is proceeding as planned, and preparations for the Filtration Group acquisition are underway [90][92][93] - The Filtration Group acquisition is expected to enhance the company's filtration aftermarket exposure by 500 basis points [110] Margin and Growth Targets - Parker-Hannifin has set a target of 27% segment operating margin by FY 2029, with expectations for continued margin expansion beyond that [106] - The company aims for organic growth of 4-6% and EPS growth of over 10% annually, alongside maintaining a strong dividend record [106] Conclusion - Parker-Hannifin is well-positioned for future growth with a diversified portfolio, strong market presence in aerospace and industrial sectors, and a strategic focus on long-term growth and margin expansion through innovation and acquisitions [72][106]
FiscalNote (NYSE:NOTE) Update / briefing Transcript
2026-02-18 17:02
FiscalNote Update Summary Company Overview - **Company**: FiscalNote (NYSE: NOTE) - **Industry**: Political prediction markets and data analytics Key Points and Arguments Market Opportunity - The way information is consumed and acted upon is rapidly changing, presenting new market opportunities for FiscalNote [3][4] - FiscalNote has a strong foundation with thousands of policy professionals relying on its data and analysis, which is difficult to replicate [3] - The expansion into political prediction markets is seen as a natural evolution of FiscalNote's existing capabilities [4] Growth in Prediction Markets - Global trading volume in prediction markets surged, with U.S. volumes hitting over $44 billion in 2025, representing a 400% year-over-year growth [8] - Political markets accounted for approximately $7.2 billion in 2025, with expectations for continued growth [8] - The market is still early and underdeveloped, making it an attractive entry point for FiscalNote [5] Regulatory Environment - The CFTC's withdrawal of the ban on political and sports event contracts has enabled significant market growth [10][22] - Regulatory clarity is expected to improve, which will support the development of prediction markets [22] Competitive Advantage - FiscalNote's deep knowledge and experience in political prediction markets position it uniquely to capitalize on this growth [17] - The combination of FiscalNote's domain expertise and 365 Prediction's iGaming experience is expected to create a differentiated product [18] Product Development and Innovation - FiscalNote plans to launch products that address existing market concerns, such as credibility and ethical considerations [23][24] - The company aims to create a subscription service for tips on political outcomes, leveraging its AI capabilities [32] - Plans to explore fantasy leagues around political outcomes as a way to engage users without waiting for regulatory changes [33] Ethical Considerations - There are concerns about the perception of betting on political outcomes; FiscalNote aims to position prediction markets as tools for advocacy and awareness [25][26] - Existing relationships with advocacy organizations will be leveraged to create a more constructive market environment [26][27] Strategic Partnerships - Partnerships, particularly with 365 Prediction, are crucial for leveraging existing market infrastructure and capabilities [6][17] - The collaboration is expected to enhance market design and integrity, which are essential for successful market making [20][21] Future Outlook - FiscalNote is not pivoting away from its core business but is extending its capabilities into new markets [35] - The company is focused on leveraging its existing strengths to explore new opportunities in prediction markets and beyond [35] Additional Important Content - The discussion highlighted the historical context of prediction markets, originating from academic experiments to improve outcome predictions [12][14] - The integration of prediction market data into professional workflows is growing, indicating a shift towards institutional relevance [5] - The potential for prediction markets to hedge policy and regulatory risks was noted as a significant opportunity [5]
RXO (NYSE:RXO) FY Conference Transcript
2026-02-18 17:02
RXO FY Conference Summary Company Overview - **Company**: RXO (NYSE: RXO) - **Event**: FY Conference held on February 18, 2026 Key Points Industry Context - RXO operates in the asset-light transportation sector, focusing on brokerage services for freight transportation - The company is experiencing a supply-driven market environment with significant changes in regulations impacting capacity and competition [4][35] Financial Performance - RXO's earnings have faced challenges in the last two quarters, particularly in Q4, with guidance for Q1 indicating adjusted EBITDA between $5 million and $12 million [8][9] - The company anticipates a volume decline of 5%-10% year-over-year in Q1, with truckload volumes expected to be down low double digits [12][12] - In Q4, LTL (Less Than Truckload) volumes were up 31% year-over-year, but tougher comparisons are expected in Q1 with LTL projected to be up 5% year-over-year [12][12] Business Model and Strategy - RXO's business model is heavily reliant on long-term relationships with large shippers, with top customers averaging 16 years of partnership [5] - The company is leveraging technology and AI to improve productivity and unlock new revenue opportunities, emphasizing the importance of exceptional customer service [4][5] - RXO's late-stage brokerage sales pipeline has increased by over 50% year-over-year, indicating strong potential for future growth [13][15] Market Dynamics - The company is currently facing a significant squeeze in gross margins due to a 15% month-on-month increase in industry-wide buy rates from November to December, the largest movement in 16 years [8][9] - RXO's brokerage gross profit per load was reported to be 30% below the five-year average, excluding COVID highs [45][46] - The company is optimistic about resuming truckload outperformance versus the market as early as mid-2026, driven by a strong pipeline and easing comparisons [14][17] Competitive Landscape - RXO has a network of approximately 120,000 carriers, which positions it well to capture market share as smaller, less compliant brokers exit the market due to regulatory pressures [25][30] - The company is focused on maintaining high-quality carrier partnerships, which is crucial for servicing complex freight needs [26][27] Cost Management and Efficiency - RXO has successfully realized $70 million in synergies from the Coyote acquisition, with $60 million in operating expenses and $10 million in CapEx [43][44] - The company has reduced its capital expenditure forecast for 2026 to $50 million-$55 million, reflecting a focus on efficient operations [55][56] Future Outlook - RXO is entering 2026 with significant momentum, aiming for profitable growth and improved cash flow generation [59] - The company is optimistic about the potential for demand recovery, citing lean inventories and positive economic indicators [20][21] - RXO's strategy emphasizes driving growth while maintaining a focus on margin improvement and operational efficiency [19][59] Conclusion - RXO is positioned to capitalize on market opportunities as it navigates current challenges, with a strong focus on technology, customer relationships, and operational efficiency [59]
British American Tobacco (NYSE:BTI) 2026 Conference Transcript
2026-02-18 17:02
Summary of British American Tobacco (BAT) 2026 Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: British American Tobacco (NYSE: BTI) - **Event**: 2026 Conference Call held on February 18, 2026 - **Key Speakers**: Tadeu Marroco (CEO), David Waterfield (President of Reynolds American) Core Industry Insights - **Transformation Goal**: BAT aims to become predominantly smokeless by 2035, focusing on a smoke-free future while maintaining organic growth and shareholder returns [2][3] - **Market Growth**: The nicotine industry is projected to grow at a 4% CAGR over the next five years, driven by double-digit growth in new categories like nicotine pouches, which are expected to nearly triple in revenue by 2030 [3][4] - **Consumer Behavior**: There is a significant shift as smokers transition to less risky alternatives, with polyuse (using multiple nicotine products) doubling over the last five years [4][5] Financial Performance - **Cash Flow**: BAT has generated strong free cash flow, allowing for substantial shareholder returns through dividends and share buybacks [1] - **Revenue Growth Targets**: BAT aims for 3%-5% revenue growth, 4%-6% adjusted profit from operations growth, and 5%-8% adjusted diluted EPS growth in the midterm [25] Product Categories - **Nicotine Pouches**: Fastest-growing category, with VELO being a leading brand. VELO's consumer numbers, volume, and revenue have tripled over the last three years [9][11] - **Vapor Products**: Vuse is the global leader with a 39% market share, and the category is expected to grow significantly as regulatory environments improve [13][14] - **Heated Products**: The glo product line is positioned in a growing market, with a focus on premium segments [15][16] Regulatory Environment - **Regulatory Progress**: There are now 24 countries with regulatory frameworks for nicotine pouches, up from 4 in 2022. The FDA has initiated a pilot program to expedite the approval process for nicotine pouches [12][38] - **Enforcement Actions**: Increased enforcement against illegal products is crucial for the vapor market, with significant progress noted in 2025 [37][38] U.S. Market Focus - **U.S. Strategy**: The U.S. is a cornerstone of BAT's strategy, with Reynolds American positioned to capitalize on the evolving market. The U.S. nicotine revenue pool is projected to grow above a 4% CAGR through 2030 [26][28] - **Investment Commitment**: BAT is committing GBP 2.5 billion by 2030 to support U.S. growth, which is expected to create over 2,000 jobs [30][31] Competitive Positioning - **Market Leadership**: Reynolds is the number one choice for adult nicotine consumers, with nearly 22 million users. The company has seen growth in all product categories, particularly in smokeless and new categories [32][33] - **Value Share Growth**: Reynolds has increased its total nicotine volume share by over 100 basis points from December 2024 to December 2025, with significant contributions from smokeless categories [33][34] Conclusion - **Sustainable Value Creation**: BAT is focused on delivering sustainable value while preparing for future growth through a balanced portfolio of combustibles and new categories [42][43] - **Future Outlook**: The company is well-positioned to lead in the U.S. nicotine market, leveraging its multi-category portfolio and commitment to innovation and regulatory engagement [43][44]
CRISPR Therapeutics (NasdaqGM:CRSP) 2026 Conference Transcript
2026-02-18 16:47
Summary of CRISPR Therapeutics Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: CRISPR Therapeutics (NasdaqGM:CRSP) - **Event**: Virtual Oncology Leadership Summit - **Date**: February 18, 2026 Key Points Industry Focus - CRISPR Therapeutics is engaged in multiple disease areas, with a strong focus on oncology, cardiovascular diseases, autoimmune diseases, and Type 1 diabetes [3][4] Oncology Programs - **ZugoCell (formerly CTX112)**: A next-generation allogeneic CAR-T therapy targeting CD19, designed to improve potency and safety compared to earlier generations [4][5] - **Allogeneic CAR-T**: Made from healthy donor-derived cells, with advanced edits to enhance efficacy and safety, aiming for autologous-like performance [5][6] Key Edits in ZugoCell - **Beta-2M Knockout**: Prevents immune system from recognizing allogeneic cells as foreign, enhancing persistence [8][9] - **RGNASE1 Knockout**: Retains a naive T cell phenotype, allowing for better expansion and reduced exhaustion [10][11] - **TGF-beta Receptor 2 Knockout**: Prevents exhaustion of CAR-T cells, enhancing potency [10][11] Clinical Strategy - **Autoimmune Diseases**: Rapidly enrolling patients for indications like lupus, myositis, and scleroderma, with plans to expand further [17][18] - **Oncology**: Aiming for high complete response (CR) rates and durability, with initial CR rates for ZugoCell reaching nearly 70% [20][21] Regulatory Pathway - Parallel development in oncology and autoimmune indications, with discussions with regulators expected to guide future trials [27][28] Pricing Strategy - Targeting a price point of around $200K for allogeneic CAR-T therapies, significantly lower than current autologous therapies priced at $350K-$400K [52][53] In Vivo CAR-T Development - Developing both transient and permanent CAR-T therapies using LNP-mediated delivery, with a focus on safety and efficacy [54][55] - Permanent CARs could potentially eliminate tumors with a single injection, offering a significant advancement in oncology [56][57] Market Opportunities - Significant potential in both U.S. and international markets, particularly in regions where autologous therapies are not feasible due to cost and availability [48][49] Future Directions - Continued focus on data collection and analysis in both oncology and autoimmune spaces, with a strong emphasis on achieving long-term remissions and safety [31][32][39] Conclusion - CRISPR Therapeutics is positioned to make significant advancements in both oncology and autoimmune therapies through innovative CAR-T technologies, with a clear strategy for regulatory approval and market entry.
Trane Technologies (NYSE:TT) 2026 Conference Transcript
2026-02-18 16:32
Summary of Trane Technologies Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: Trane Technologies (NYSE: TT) - **Date**: February 18, 2026 - **Speakers**: Dave Regnery (Chairman and CEO), Chris Kuehn (EVP and CFO) Key Points Innovation and Investment Strategy - Trane Technologies emphasizes consistent investment in innovation as a core philosophy, maintaining a leverage model of 25% to ensure funds for self-investment [5][13] - The company has a detailed gate process for investments to minimize errors and ensure successful product launches [7][8] - Current investments focus on AI applications to enhance building intelligence and resilience, including a virtual engineer tool named ARIA to assist technicians [8][9] Financial Performance and Growth Projections - Expected flattish growth in Q1 2026, with commercial HVAC in the Americas projected to grow by 7%-8% [15][16] - Anticipated 30% growth in commercial HVAC in the second half of 2025, driven by backlog alignment with customer delivery dates [16][17] - Residential sector expected to decline by 20% in Q1 2026 due to tough comparisons from the previous year [17][18] - Mid-single-digit growth expected in EMEA, while Asia is projected to remain flattish [18][62] Market Dynamics and Vertical Performance - Trane is experiencing growth across 12-14 verticals, with a strong focus on core markets rather than solely on data centers [21][24] - The company has seen significant order growth in commercial HVAC, particularly in data centers, but acknowledges that such high growth rates (e.g., 120%) may not be sustainable [27][29] - Strong performance in Europe, with a 40% increase in backlog for commercial HVAC, despite overall market challenges [30][31] Pricing and Cost Management - The company aims for a 1.5% price increase in 2026, with residential pricing expected to rise by up to 5% effective April 1 [54][57] - Trane has a strong track record in managing cost inputs and pricing effectively to maintain margins [52][60] Regional Insights - Asia represents about 6% of enterprise revenue, with China expected to decline while the rest of Asia shows growth [62][63] - The company has shifted focus in China to target end users rather than mechanical contractors to improve cash flow and project reliability [63][64] Acquisitions and Strategic Initiatives - Trane has completed 25 acquisitions in the past five years, focusing on enhancing its business operating system and integrating new technologies [86][97] - The acquisition of BrainBox aims to enhance digital offerings for smarter buildings, while the Stellar acquisition focuses on modular chiller design to simplify job site operations [98][105][109] Future Outlook - Trane Technologies remains optimistic about long-term growth, viewing the residential business as a GDP-plus opportunity despite recent challenges [71] - The transport business is expected to recover in the back half of 2026, with ongoing investments in AI to enhance operational efficiency [80][81] Conclusion - Trane Technologies is committed to innovation and strategic investments to drive long-term growth, with a focus on maintaining strong market positions across various verticals while navigating current market challenges.
Caterpillar (NYSE:CAT) FY Conference Transcript
2026-02-18 16:27
Caterpillar (NYSE: CAT) FY Conference Summary Company Overview - **Company**: Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE: CAT) - **Event**: Fireside Chat at the Barclays Industrial Select Conference - **Date**: February 18, 2026 Key Points Financial Performance and Strategy - Caterpillar's strategy focuses on growing absolute Operating Profit After Capital Charge (OPACC) dollars, which correlates highly with free cash flow and total shareholder return [5][6] - Since 2020, Caterpillar has generated a top quartile total shareholder return and increased OPACC dollars by 4.1 times [5] - New Investor Day targets set to grow sales and revenues by 5% to 7% annually until 2030, with a 4% growth achieved last year [6] - Operating margin target range has been adjusted from 10%-22% to 15%-25% [9] - Free cash flow generation has exceeded $9 billion over the last three years, marking Caterpillar as a strong cash generator within the S&P 500 industrials [12][13] Investment and Growth - Caterpillar plans to increase capital expenditures (CapEx) to around $3.5 billion this year, doubling CapEx over the next five years compared to the previous five [11] - Investment in digital and technology, including automation and connectivity, will increase by 2.5 times by 2030 [12] - Services revenue grew modestly to over $24 billion last year, with a target of $30 billion by 2030 [7] Market Segments and Opportunities - Caterpillar operates in three main segments: Construction Industries, Resource Industries, and Power and Energy [17] - The construction industry saw a 5% growth in sales despite a down market, driven by merchandising programs [6][19] - The demand for energy, particularly gas, is expected to grow, benefiting Caterpillar's Power and Energy segment [17] - Infrastructure spending remains strong, particularly in North America, with ongoing investments from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) [19] Backlog and Orders - Caterpillar reported over $10 billion in backlog growth this quarter, with significant orders in the Power and Energy sector [29] - The AIP project represents about 1 GW of power, slightly smaller than previous large orders, reflecting strong demand for alternative energy solutions [30] Inventory Management - Caterpillar maintains dealer inventories within a normal range of three to four months, focusing on avoiding excess inventory to prevent production issues [41][43] Tariffs and Mitigation Strategies - Caterpillar is a net exporter from the U.S. and is closely monitoring tariff impacts, particularly related to steel and aluminum [45][46] - The company is exploring sourcing changes and maximizing exemptions to mitigate tariff impacts [49] Shareholder Returns - Caterpillar has returned approximately 84% of free cash flow to shareholders through dividends and buybacks, with a 7% dividend growth last year [7][14] - The company has a history of increasing dividends for 32 consecutive years, positioning itself as a dividend aristocrat [13] Conclusion - Caterpillar is focused on driving strong total shareholder returns while investing in profitable growth and maintaining a diverse portfolio to reduce volatility [15][54]
Jetblue Airways (NasdaqGS:JBLU) FY Conference Transcript
2026-02-18 16:27
Jetblue Airways (NasdaqGS:JBLU) FY Conference February 18, 2026 10:25 AM ET Company ParticipantsMarty St. George - PresidentUrsula Hurley - CFOConference Call ParticipantsBrandon Oglenski - Airline and Transport AnalystNone - AnalystBrandon OglenskiAll right. Good morning, everyone. Welcome again to day 2 of Barclays' 43rd Annual Industrial Select Conference. I'm Brandon Oglenski, Airline and Transport Analyst, and, next up, we have JetBlue Airways. Joining us is Marty St. George, President of the company, ...
Ralliant (NYSE:RAL) FY Conference Transcript
2026-02-18 16:27
Ralliant FY Conference Summary Company Overview - **Company**: Ralliant (NYSE: RAL) - **Event**: FY Conference held on February 18, 2026 - **Key Speakers**: Tami Newcombe (CEO), Neill Reynolds (CFO) Core Industry Insights - Ralliant operates in the **Test and Measurement (T&M)** and **Sensors and Safety Systems** segments, with a focus on industrial manufacturing and defense markets - The company has recently transitioned to a standalone public entity after spinning off in June 2025 Financial Performance and Guidance - **Growth Rate**: Projected growth for Q1 2026 is between **5%-8%** [2] - **Profitability**: Adjusted EBITDA margins are expected to improve, with a target of **40%-45% incrementals** as revenue grows [9][30] - **Earnings Guidance**: For 2026, Ralliant anticipates a growth rate of **2%-6%** with a focus on improving margins from a new baseline [29] Key Financial Metrics - **Share Buyback**: Executed **$39 million** in share buybacks since the last earnings call [4] - **Free Cash Flow**: Historical performance shows **117%** free cash flow generation, indicating strong operational efficiency [6] - **Cost Savings Program**: Announced a cost savings initiative of **$9 million-$11 million** post-spin, on track for implementation [8] Market Dynamics - **Industrial Manufacturing**: Experienced a **4% growth** in Q4, indicating a recovery in short-cycle industrial activity [11] - **Defense Sector**: Defense and space markets are expected to contribute significantly to revenue, with a backlog of long-term production programs [20][21] - **T&M Segment**: The diversified electronics within T&M is showing signs of improvement, driven by increased CapEx spending from customers [16] Operational Strategies - Ralliant emphasizes **operating rigor** to ensure profits grow faster than revenue, with a commitment to maintaining a strong focus on cost management and efficiency [3][40] - The company is investing in **R&D** and **capacity expansion** to support higher growth ambitions, particularly in segments with high demand [48] Competitive Landscape - Ralliant maintains a strong brand reputation in the T&M space, with customers prioritizing reliability and expertise over price [68] - The competitive environment has seen an influx of low-end players, particularly from China, but Ralliant's established brand and service offerings provide a competitive edge [84] Risks and Considerations - **Margin Sensitivity**: The T&M segment is highly volume-sensitive, which could lead to fluctuations in margins based on product mix and demand [70] - **Cost Structure**: The company acknowledges a lower starting point for costs post-spin, with ongoing efforts to optimize operational expenses [39][62] Conclusion - Ralliant is positioned for growth in 2026, with a focus on improving profitability and leveraging its strong market presence in the T&M and defense sectors. The company is committed to operational efficiency and strategic investments to drive future success.
Philip Morris International (NYSE:PM) 2026 Conference Transcript
2026-02-18 16:02
Summary of Philip Morris International (PMI) Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: Philip Morris International (NYSE: PM) - **Event**: 2026 Conference on February 18, 2026 - **Key Speakers**: CEO Jacek Olczak, CFO Emmanuel Babeau Core Industry Insights - PMI is undergoing a significant transformation towards smoke-free products, with over **40%** of revenues and gross profit now derived from these products [1][3] - The company has achieved **$17 billion** in smoke-free revenues and **180 billion** units in volume, exceeding its target of being present in **100 markets** by 2025, now reaching **106 markets** [6][7] - PMI aims for **two-thirds** of its revenues to come from smoke-free products by **2030** [7] Financial Performance and Growth Strategy - PMI is targeting **double-digit EPS growth** over the next several years, with a focus on margin expansion and free cash flow generation [1] - The company expects **high single-digit to low teen growth** for smoke-free volumes from **2026 to 2028**, which will offset declines in combustible products [40] - Projected organic revenue growth is between **6%-8%**, with operating income growth of **8%-10%** [41] - Adjusted EPS growth is targeted between **9%-11%** [42] Market Dynamics - The company has seen a **5-fold** acceleration in volume decline in markets where smoke-free products are available, compared to those where they are not [15] - In regions where smoke-free products are established, they represent **62%** of total revenues in the top five operating income markets [9] - PMI has successfully penetrated markets like Taiwan, achieving a **6%** market share in combined cigarettes and heated tobacco products within three months of entry [11] Regulatory Environment - There is a growing recognition of the potential of smoke-free products, with more mature discussions around nicotine and its role in smoking-related diseases [17][18] - Regulatory momentum is shifting positively, with increasing acceptance of smoke-free products globally [20] - Major markets like India, Turkey, Brazil, and Vietnam, which currently do not allow smoke-free products, represent significant future opportunities [21] Consumer Trends - The company is observing a growing interaction with smoke-free products, indicating an openness among consumers to transition from combustible cigarettes [26] - The multi-category strategy, offering heat-not-burn, vape, and pouches, is accelerating growth, with markets showing over **15%** growth when multiple products are available [31] Investment and Infrastructure - PMI has established a robust infrastructure with **1.5 million** points of sale for smoke-free products and **8,000** brand retail networks [33] - The company is focusing on productive investments in marketing and brand building while seeking efficiencies in back-office costs [51] Shareholder Returns - PMI has a target payout ratio of **75%** of net profit into dividends, with a **9%** increase in dividends noted in 2025 [53] - The company has consistently outperformed indices like the S&P 500 and the MSI Tobacco Index in total shareholder return [54] Conclusion - PMI is positioned as a leader in the transition to smoke-free products, with a clear growth strategy, strong financial performance, and a commitment to shareholder returns. The ongoing transformation is supported by favorable regulatory trends and increasing consumer acceptance of smoke-free alternatives.