Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales for Q3 2025 totaled $468 million, reflecting an 8% growth on a reported basis and 7% growth organically [13][9] - Adjusted operating income increased by 14% year-over-year, with adjusted EPS growing by 25% to $1.79 [15][9] - For the full year 2025, the company expects sales growth between 7% and 8%, with adjusted operating income growth between 12% and 14% [20][10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Cardio and vascular sales increased by 15% in Q3 2025, driven by new product ramps and strong demand in neurovascular [15] - Cardiac rhythm management solutions sales increased by 18% year-over-year, but growth is expected to decelerate in Q4 2025 due to anticipated declines in new products [16][10] - Neuromodulation sales increased by 2% in Q3 2025, with expectations for low single-digit growth for the full year [17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company anticipates a 3% to 4% headwind to total sales in 2026 due to slower market adoption of three new products [11][25] - The portable medical exit is expected to contribute a 2% headwind to total sales in 2026 [11][25] - The overall market in which the company competes is growing at a steady mid-single digit rate [29] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains confident in its long-term growth strategy, focusing on early design wins in high-growth markets [12][29] - A strong product development pipeline is expected to drive above-market growth in 2027 [28][29] - The company plans to continue its acquisition strategy while maintaining a leverage ratio within the targeted range of 2.5 to 3.5x [29] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged recent customer forecast changes impacting the financial outlook but expressed confidence in the long-term strategy [5][10] - The company expects a recovery to market growth in the second half of 2026 as new product headwinds moderate [11][12] - Management highlighted the unusual nature of simultaneous forecast changes from multiple customers as a significant factor affecting the outlook [59] Other Important Information - The adjusted effective tax rate for Q3 2025 was 16.3%, down from 17.2% in the prior year, with expectations for the full year to be within the range of 17%-18% [18] - The company generated $66 million of cash flow from operations in Q3 2025, with free cash flow remaining flat at $46 million [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on the organic growth of the rest of the portfolio? - Management indicated that without new product introductions, the rest of the portfolio is expected to grow at market rates, which is lower than the typical 6%-8% growth [32][33] Question: What are the expected headwinds in the cardio and vascular items? - The headwinds are related to two electrophysiology products with slower market adoption than anticipated, not due to loss of market share [34][36] Question: How confident is the company in returning to market growth by Q4 2026? - Management expressed confidence due to steady backlog and customer forecasts, despite the unusual simultaneous changes in multiple products [38][39] Question: What is the nature of the changes in the electrophysiology products? - The changes are due to customers adjusting their forecasts based on lower-than-expected market adoption rates [42][46] Question: Is the decline in neuromodulation similar to electrophysiology? - Yes, the decline is attributed to slower market adoption from emerging customers, although the overall book of business is still growing [52][57] Question: How does the company plan to manage costs in 2026? - The company will focus on operational efficiencies and disciplined cost management to navigate the expected headwinds [85][86]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported GAAP net income for the quarter of $1.2 billion and distributable earnings of $1.9 billion, or $1.52 per common share, marking a 48% year-over-year increase [5][34] - Distributable earnings increased nearly 50% year on year, driven by a 26% growth in fee-related earnings and a more than doubling of net realizations [8][34] - Total assets under management (AUM) rose 12% year over year to $1.24 trillion, with fee-earning AUM growing 10% to $906 billion [32] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In corporate and real estate credit, AUM crossed the $500 billion milestone, up 18% year over year [19] - The infrastructure and asset-based credit business grew 29% year over year to $107 billion, one of the fastest-growing areas [20] - The private wealth channel's AUM grew 15% year over year to nearly $290 billion, with over $11 billion raised in the third quarter, more than doubling year over year [24][25] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company executed three successful IPOs in the last three months, with a robust pipeline for the next 12 months [10][35] - The commercial real estate market is showing signs of recovery, with values bottoming in December 2023 and transaction activity increasing by 25% year over year in U.S. logistics [30] - The demand for data center space continues to grow, with a doubling in the leasing pipeline globally in Q3 compared to Q2 [63] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to capture generational shifts in the global economy and markets, focusing on massive capital solutions across various sectors, including AI, energy infrastructure, and life sciences [17] - The firm is positioned to lead the evolution of private credit markets, expanding from non-investment grade corporate credit to include commercial finance and infrastructure [20] - The company plans to broaden distribution in major markets and deepen its presence in key sub-channels, including the RIA channel [26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the firm's growth prospects, citing strong structural tailwinds in the alternative sector and increasing allocations to alternatives by institutional investors [8][9] - The company anticipates a resurgence in capital markets activity, which should lead to greater realizations and support fundraising and deployment [10] - Despite recent credit defaults in the market, management emphasized that these events are not reflective of the private credit market and that defaults remain minimal [11][42] Other Important Information - The company celebrated its 40th anniversary, highlighting its growth from a startup to the largest alternative asset manager in the world [14] - The firm has achieved significant organic growth, distinguishing itself from competitors who often rely on acquisitions [14][15] Q&A Session Summary Question: Changes in credit quality across the portfolio - Management clarified that recent credit issues are not related to private credit but rather to bank-led credits, emphasizing minimal realized losses and strong credit quality [41][42] Question: Plans for the defined contribution business - Management discussed the importance of building capabilities in this area and indicated plans to work with existing partners while awaiting regulatory developments [44][45] Question: Brand strategy and marketing evolution - Management noted targeted marketing efforts, including a recent launch in Japan, and emphasized the importance of expanding the brand's footprint in private wealth [47][49] Question: Interplay between margin outlook and realizations - Management indicated that operating leverage will continue to support healthy fee-related earnings margins, with a favorable outlook for realizations as capital markets strengthen [52][53] Question: Feedback on BCRED's dividend cut - Management reported healthy gross sales and expected strong flows in BCRED, emphasizing the importance of delivering relative premium returns [68][78]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net interest income increased by $1.5 million compared to the second quarter and by $5 million year-over-year [4] - Net income rose by $3.5 million, or 43%, compared to Q3 of 2024 [5] - Return on average assets improved by 28 basis points to 1.16% compared to 0.88% in the third quarter of last year [5] - Earnings per share increased to $0.47 in the third quarter, a 46% increase compared to Q3 a year ago [5] - Return on tangible common equity was reported at 12.35% [5] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loans increased by $47 million for the second quarter, or 5.6% annualized, and grew by $286 million, or over 9%, year-over-year [8] - C&I loans grew by $194 million, and owner-occupied commercial real estate loans increased by $40 million [8] - Specialized lending groups now constitute 16% of total loans, with no single niche exceeding 5% of total loans [5] - Non-performing assets declined to 36 basis points compared to 40 basis points at June 30 and 47 basis points one year ago [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Deposit balances increased by over $55 million during the quarter, or an annualized 7% [9] - Average cost of deposits declined by 3 basis points to 2.69% for the quarter [9] - Average non-interest-bearing deposits grew by $21 million during the quarter and by $52 million year-to-date [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is evolving into a middle-market commercial bank, focusing on relationship-driven strategies rather than growth for its own sake [19] - New branch openings and strategic closures are part of the company's efforts to optimize its branch network [17] - The company aims to maintain a balance between growing deposits and managing costs effectively [15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The economic outlook remains uncertain, but the company is well-positioned for various rate environments [7] - Management is focused on maintaining credit quality despite some softness in the small business segment [6] - The company anticipates a modest increase in expenses due to new branches but aims to keep overall costs flat [35] Other Important Information - Non-interest income totaled $2.4 million in Q3 2025, down from $2.7 million in Q2 [12] - The efficiency ratio improved to 52%, remaining below 60% for the 25th consecutive quarter [13] - The company repurchased almost 120,000 shares at an average price of $14.91 during the quarter [7] Q&A Session Summary Question: Discussion on expenses and efficiency actions - Management highlighted ongoing focus on cost control while balancing investment opportunities, with no major new costs anticipated [32][34] Question: Margin and deposit cost adjustments following Federal Reserve cuts - Management indicated that adjustments to deposit costs will be made in response to Federal Reserve actions, aiming for a neutral impact on margins [38][39] Question: Capital levels and buyback considerations - The company maintains a soft limit on total risk-based capital ratio around 11.5% and is open to capital deployment through buybacks depending on market conditions [43][44]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The combined adjusted EBITDA for the third quarter was $245 million, compared to $237 million in Q3 2024 and $250 million in the previous quarter [10] - Total net sales for the quarter were $1.6 billion, up from $1.4 billion year-over-year, with gross margins improving to 24.7% from 22.1% [10][16] - Net income for the quarter was $19.4 million, or $0.12 per diluted share, compared to $16.9 million, or $0.11 per diluted share in Q3 2024 [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the feed segment, EBITDA improved to $174 million from $132 million a year ago, with total sales reaching $1 billion compared to $928 million [10] - The food segment saw total sales of $381 million, up from $357 million in Q3 2024, with gross margins increasing to 27.5% from 23.9% [11] - The fuel segment, specifically Diamond Green Diesel (DGD), reported an EBITDA of -$3 million, down from +$39 million in Q3 2024, impacted by operational challenges and market dynamics [12][14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global rendering volumes and margins in the feed segment were up both sequentially and year-over-year, driven by strong demand for fats and proteins [7] - In the U.S., demand for domestic fats was robust, supported by strong agricultural and energy policies, boosting revenue and margins [8] - Export protein demand showed signs of recovery, with slightly firmer pricing trends emerging, although tariff implications affected value-added poultry protein products [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on its core ingredients business, expecting EBITDA for 2025 to be in the range of $875 to $900 million, excluding DGD [17] - The management believes that the integrated model of Darling Ingredients provides a competitive advantage that is unmatched in the industry [5] - The company anticipates a shift in the renewables market that will enhance DGD's earnings potential, contingent on favorable public policy [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the core ingredients business despite short-term challenges in the renewables market due to policy uncertainties [5][9] - The management highlighted that the Renewable Volume Obligation (RVO) is expected to support American agriculture and energy leadership, which could be a catalyst for future growth [17] - There is optimism regarding the recovery of margins in the fourth quarter, although caution was advised due to ongoing regulatory uncertainties [64] Other Important Information - Total debt net of cash was $4.01 billion, a slight increase from $3.97 billion at year-end 2024, with capital expenditures totaling $90 million in Q3 [15] - The company recorded an income tax benefit of $1.2 million for the quarter, yielding an effective tax rate of -6.3% [16] - The company expects to generate around $300 million in production tax credits (PTCs) in 2025, with significant sales anticipated in the fourth quarter [13][14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Timeline for clarity on regulatory items like RVO - Management expects clarity on RVO and related regulatory items by December, despite the government shutdown [22] Question: Outlook for feed segment in Q4 - Management indicated that while waste fat prices have dipped, they expect the food segment to be stronger in Q4, with overall performance close to the previous quarter [24] Question: Benefits of REMS policy protectionism - Management noted that the treatment of foreign feedstocks is still unclear, and the overall supply and demand for fats and oils will influence the feed business [28][29] Question: Drivers of DGD margins - Management clarified that the DGD results were impacted by LCM and operational challenges, and they are optimistic about future margin improvements [34][39] Question: Plans for debt repayment and leverage ratios - Management confirmed they are committed to paying down debt and expect their debt coverage ratio to be around three by year-end [51][52] Question: RIN pricing scenarios and industry compliance - Management indicated that RIN prices may not see a significant lift until clarity on enforcement dates is provided, which is expected by the end of the year [76]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Hexcel generated $456 million in sales and adjusted diluted EPS of $0.37 in Q3 2025, unchanged year over year, reflecting challenging conditions due to slower seasonal sales and continued destocking by commercial OEMs [10][24] - Gross margin for Q3 2025 was 21.9%, down from 23.3% in Q3 2024, impacted by tariffs and inventory reduction actions [10][26] - Adjusted operating income in Q3 was $44.8 million, or 9.8% of sales, compared to $52.9 million, or 11.6% of sales in the prior year [28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Commercial aerospace sales were $274.2 million, a decline of 7.3% year over year, primarily due to destocking on the Airbus A350 program [11][24] - Sales for defense, space, and other segments totaled $182 million, an increase of 11.7% on a constant currency basis, driven by strong demand across various platforms [12][25] - Other commercial aerospace sales increased by 9.3% year over year, led by regional jets [11][24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The backlog for commercial aircraft has grown from 13,000 units before the pandemic to over 15,000 today, indicating strong demand [6][7] - Air traffic has recovered to pre-pandemic levels, supporting the outlook for increased production rates in the aerospace sector [6][7] - The company expects to exit 2025 fully aligned with commercial aircraft build rates, positioning for growth in 2026 and beyond [7][35] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Hexcel's strategic focus remains on advanced material science, particularly in the aerospace and defense markets, as it navigates a dynamic environment [5][6] - The company is committed to driving productivity through automation, digitalization, and robotics, while also managing costs and realizing price gains [16][17] - Hexcel plans to return excess cash to stockholders, as demonstrated by a new $600 million share repurchase program [21][37] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed growing confidence in a sustained ramp-up in production based on customer discussions and actions, despite a slow recovery from the pandemic [6][7] - The company anticipates strong free cash flow generation, forecasting over $1 billion in cumulative free cash flow from 2025 to 2028 [17][37] - Management acknowledged the impact of tariffs and ongoing destocking but remains optimistic about future growth driven by increased production rates [14][32] Other Important Information - The divestiture of the Neumarkt, Austria plant was completed, which will not contribute to sales in Q4 2025 or beyond [14][33] - The company is managing headcount closely, with expectations to begin hiring again in early 2026 as production rates increase [15][17] - The company has not repurchased any stock during Q3 2025 but plans to utilize cash generation to repay borrowings from the accelerated share repurchase program [31] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you talk about the $500 million growth related to manufacturer production rates? - Management indicated that the long-term contract with Airbus for the A350 provides a foundation for capital investments, but inflation has impacted margins [42] Question: What should be the debt or interest costs for 2026 in light of the ASR? - Management suggested that debt will decrease rapidly after the first quarter, with an estimated interest rate of about 5.5% [44] Question: Can margins be higher if commercial aero revenue is higher than in 2024? - Management confirmed that margins can increase, but there is work to offset natural inflation [57] Question: How does the company plan to manage potential continued destocking? - Management plans to lag hiring in response to demand and utilize inventory as a cushion for unexpected demand spikes [59] Question: Is there an opportunity to recapture incremental tariff costs in the future? - Management noted that there are provisions to recover some costs, particularly for export or military use, and they are working on shifting foreign supply to domestic sources [76] Question: How big is the inventory cushion currently? - Management indicated that inventory levels have been running high, with a current cushion of about 90 days, aiming to reduce it to a steady state of 70 days [81]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported third-quarter GAAP earnings of $0.76 per share, an increase from $0.73 in the same quarter last year [4] - Core earnings for the quarter were $0.83 per share, compared to $0.76 in Q3 2024, and year-to-date core earnings reached $2.02 per share, up 15% from $1.76 in 2024 [4][18] - The company invested $4 billion in capital for regulated utilities in the first nine months of 2025, a 30% increase compared to the previous year [4][22] - The updated guidance for 2025 is raised to a midpoint of $2.53 per share, with a range of $2.50-$2.56 [5][16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Distribution business earnings improved by 20% year-to-date due to a $225 million annual rate adjustment in Pennsylvania and higher customer demand [19] - Integrated segment earnings increased by $0.05 per share, or 7%, driven by formula rate investments in transmission systems [19] - Standalone transmission business earnings rose approximately 7%, supported by a strong capital investment program [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The contracted customer demand from data centers increased by over 30% since the last earnings call, with expectations for FirstEnergy's system peak load to rise by 15 GW by 2035 [7] - The overall sales were 1% higher than last year, remaining flat on a weather-adjusted basis [21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is increasing its 2025 capital investment program by 10% to $5.5 billion, focusing on system reliability and resiliency [5][12] - A long-term integrated resource plan in West Virginia aims to add 70 MW of utility-scale solar and 1.2 GW of natural gas generation by 2031 [9][10] - The company is committed to maintaining affordability for customers, with average bills 19% below in-state peers [14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving a core earnings compound annual growth rate of 6%-8% through 2029, supported by increased capital investments [16][18] - The company is actively engaging with regulators to address rising consumer energy costs and advocating for changes in capacity auctions [62][80] Other Important Information - The company successfully completed its 2025 financing plan with nearly $6 billion in debt financing, demonstrating a strong credit profile [24] - The company expects an order in the Ohio base rate case in November, followed by a multi-year rate plan filing [25] Q&A Session Summary Question: Discussion on West Virginia generation and capital recovery - Management explained that for build-own-transfer scenarios, capital recovery would occur during construction, with significant earnings coming once the asset is operational [32] Question: Thoughts on increased CapEx opportunities - Management indicated that increased CapEx would support the 6%-8% earnings per share growth outlook, with confidence in achieving the upper end of that range [38][83] Question: Data center pipeline activity - Management confirmed that there is currently about $1 billion of CapEx associated with transmission interconnection requests from large load customers [41] Question: Affordability pressures in New Jersey - Management acknowledged that generation costs are driving bill increases and emphasized efforts to mitigate these impacts for customers [62] Question: Transmission upside and open window outcomes - Management stated that the 30% increase in transmission CapEx is based on incremental work rather than inflation, with a modest amount from pending PJM open window projects included in the plan [66][68]

Live Oak Bancshares (NYSE:LOB) Q3 2025 Earnings Call October 23, 2025 09:00 AM ET Company ParticipantsMichael Cairns - CCOWalter Phifer - CFOWilliam Losch III - President and COOGreg Seward - General Counsel and Chief Risk OfficerChip Mahan - Chairman and CEOConference Call ParticipantsDavid Rochester - Managing Director and Senior Banks AnalystBill Young - AnalystTim Switzer - VP and Equity Research AnalystDavid Feaster - AnalystOperatorGood morning, ladies and gentlemen, and welcome to the Live Oak Bancsh ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Hexcel generated $456 million in sales and adjusted diluted EPS of $0.37 in Q3 2025, unchanged year-over-year, reflecting challenges due to slower seasonal sales and continued destocking by commercial OEMs [10][24] - Gross margin for Q3 2025 was 21.9%, down from 23.3% in Q3 2024, impacted by tariffs and inventory reduction actions [10][26] - Adjusted operating income in Q3 was $44.8 million, or 9.8% of sales, compared to $52.9 million, or 11.6% of sales in the prior year [28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Commercial aerospace sales were $274.2 million, a decline of 7.3% year-over-year on a constant currency basis, primarily due to destocking on the Airbus A350 program [11][24] - Defense, space, and other segments saw sales of $182 million, an increase of 11.7% on a constant currency basis, driven by demand across various platforms [12][25] - Other commercial aerospace sales increased by 9.3% year-over-year, led by regional jets [11][24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The backlog for commercial aircraft has grown from 13,000 units before the pandemic to over 15,000 today, indicating strong demand [6][7] - Air traffic has recovered to pre-pandemic levels, supporting the outlook for increased production rates in the aerospace sector [6][7] - The company expects to exit 2025 aligned with commercial aircraft build rates, positioning for growth in 2026 and beyond [7][35] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Hexcel's strategic focus remains on advanced material science, particularly in the aerospace and defense markets [5][6] - The company is committed to driving productivity through automation, digitalization, and AI, while also managing costs and realizing price gains [16][17] - Hexcel plans to return excess cash to stockholders, as evidenced by a new $600 million share repurchase program [21][37] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed growing confidence in a sustained ramp-up in production based on customer discussions and supply chain improvements [6][7] - The company anticipates a multi-year growth cycle for commercial aerospace original equipment production, benefiting from strong positions on major programs [9][19] - Management acknowledged challenges from tariffs and destocking but remains optimistic about future cash generation and sales growth [14][32] Other Important Information - The divestiture of the Neumarkt, Austria plant was completed, which will not contribute to sales in Q4 2025 or beyond [14][33] - The company is managing headcount closely, with expectations to begin hiring again in early 2026 [15][17] - Hexcel forecasts to generate over $1 billion in cumulative free cash flow from 2025 to 2028 [17][37] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you talk about the $500 million growth expected at manufacturer production rates? - Management indicated that the long-term contract with Airbus for the A350 provides a foundation for capital investments, but inflation has impacted margins [42] Question: What should be the debt or interest costs for 2026 in light of the ASR? - Management suggested that debt will decrease rapidly after the first quarter, with an estimated interest rate of about 5.5% [44] Question: Can margins be higher in 2026 if commercial aero revenue is higher than in 2024? - Management confirmed that margins can increase, but there is work to offset natural inflation [57] Question: How does the company plan to manage potential continued destocking? - Management plans to lag hiring until demand materializes and utilize inventory as a cushion for unexpected demand [59] Question: Is there an opportunity to recapture incremental tariff costs in the future? - Management noted that there are provisions to recover some costs, particularly for export or military use [76] Question: How big is the inventory cushion currently? - Management indicated that inventory levels are around 90 days, down from over 100 days, and aims to reduce it further [81]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Q3 earnings per share increased by 8% quarter-over-quarter to $0.55, nearly doubling compared to Q3 2024 [10] - Core operating leverage improved by 24% year-over-year, with a 7% quarter-over-quarter increase [10][11] - Net interest income rose by $6 million, or 6% quarter-over-quarter, and $23 million, or 19% year-over-year [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loan production increased by 22% year-over-year, with total loan origination in Q3 2025 reaching approximately $1.65 billion, an 8% increase from the previous quarter [5][13] - Customer deposit growth was 20% year-over-year, with checking balances increasing by 26% quarter-over-quarter to $363 million [15][16] - The small dollar SBA loan product, Live Oak Express, is ramping up significantly, contributing to a $12 million year-to-date gain on sale [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Market share in the SBA 7(a) lending program increased from 6.4% to 7.7%, with over $2.8 billion in loans provided to small businesses [5] - The total loan portfolio grew approximately 5% quarter-over-quarter and 17% year-over-year [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on extending customer product offerings, including checking and small dollar SBA loan capabilities, to enhance customer relationships and reduce deposit costs [6][8] - Emphasis on AI-enabled solutions for loan origination to improve efficiency and speed in servicing customers [9][43] - The company aims for sustainable profitability with a target of 15% returns on equity and 15% EPS growth annually [88] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating economic uncertainties, emphasizing sound underwriting practices and proactive credit management [35][36] - The potential impact of government shutdowns on loan growth was discussed, with a strategy in place to manage SBA loan pipelines effectively [37][70] - The company is optimistic about leveraging AI to enhance productivity and customer experience, viewing it as a significant competitive advantage [40][42] Other Important Information - The company raised $100 million through a preferred offering, enhancing its capital position [11][25] - Non-interest expense decreased by approximately 2% quarter-over-quarter, reflecting a focus on efficiency [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide more color around the increase in NPAs this quarter and talk about new default trends? - Management noted that the increase in non-accrual balances is manageable and related to the SBA portfolio, with a focus on sound underwriting and servicing [33][35] Question: How are you thinking about the potential for an extended government shutdown? - The company has a playbook for government shutdowns and has prepared by pooling PLPs to maintain loan growth [37][38] Question: Can you quantify the benefits of AI enhancements? - AI is expected to significantly improve productivity and customer experience, with ongoing efforts to automate processes [40][42] Question: What is the trajectory for the margin with the reentering of the rate cut cycle? - Management indicated that margin recovery is typically quick following Fed rate cuts, with a focus on net interest income growth [48][50] Question: Have you seen easing competition in the SBA space? - The company believes it has a strong position in the SBA market and continues to grow despite competition [52][54] Question: Have you adjusted underwriting standards in light of broader economic pressures? - Management stated that while underwriting standards are generally consistent, they may tighten criteria in specific verticals as needed [64][66] Question: What is the update on the embedded finance build-out? - The company is actively working on embedded finance and studying opportunities in stablecoins, viewing it as a potential growth area [78][79]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The third quarter net loss was $26.2 million or $0.15 per share, while the FFO totaled $28 million or $0.16 per diluted share, exceeding consensus estimates by $0.01 [21] - The annualized combined core net debt to EBITDA was 8.1 and 7.6, respectively, both within or below the business plan range [21][30] - The FFO payout ratio for the third quarter was 93.8% [29] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The quarterly tenant retention rate was 68%, with leasing activity approximating 343,000 square feet [3] - The operating portfolio leasing pipeline remains solid at 1.7 million square feet, including about 72,000 square feet in advanced stages of negotiations [7] - The mark-to-market was negative 1.8% on a GAAP basis and negative 4.8% on a cash basis, heavily influenced by a large renewal in Austin [4][5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Philadelphia, occupancy was 94% and leased at 96%, while the Pennsylvania suburbs were at 88% occupied and 89% leased [4] - Boston's occupancy was at 77% and leased at 78%, expected to drop to about 74% by year-end due to a known move-out [4] - The life science sector in the city is in recovery, supported by a strong regional healthcare ecosystem [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to stabilize development projects and capitalize on the recovering market while reducing overall leverage [32][63] - The focus is on recapitalizing high-quality, stabilized assets to improve earnings and cash flow [14][70] - The company plans to maintain minimal balances on its line of credit to ensure ample liquidity [8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the real estate market sentiment continues to improve, with strong demand for high-quality buildings [9][10] - The company anticipates a significant increase in NOI from the consolidation of 3025 JFK, expected to grow from $8 million to over $20 million in the first quarter of 2026 [25] - The board's decision to reduce the dividend was based on the need for sustainable cash flow and capital conservation [70] Other Important Information - The company issued $300 million of bonds due January 2031, generating $296 million in gross proceeds [8] - The average cost of bond debt is slightly above 6%, with $900 million of outstanding bonds having coupons above 8% [9] - The company sold $73 million of properties at an average cap rate of 6.9% [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Could you go over in more detail how we should think about the timing and process of the recapitalizations? - Management explained that recapitalizations are designed to eliminate high-cost capital structures and bring high-quality assets onto the balance sheet, with various financing options available [34][36] Question: Could you provide some detail on the board's decision to reduce the dividend? - The board considered operating cash flow, refinancing requirements, and the cost of outside capital, concluding that a reduced dividend is sustainable and allows for future growth [68][70] Question: Can you explain why you decided to issue the unsecured notes and take out the CMBS debt? - The decision was based on the opportunity to unencumber assets, improve unleveraged ratios, and reset rates in the debt capital markets [55][56]