Fomento Económico Mexicano (NYSE:FMX) Q3 2025 Earnings Call October 28, 2025 10:30 AM ET Speaker4Good day and welcome to today's FEMSA's third quarter 2025 results conference call. My name is Serge and I will be your coordinator for today's event. Throughout today's recorded presentation, all participants will be in a listen-only mode. Later, we will conduct a question and answer session. You may register for questions at any time by pressing star one on your telephone keypad. Now I'd like to hand the call ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q3 2025, net operating revenues were $5.3 billion, with consolidated adjusted EBITDA growing 12% year-over-year to $1.1 billion, resulting in an adjusted EBITDA margin of 20.8%, a 170 basis points improvement from the previous year [4][11] - The company raised its full-year 2025 adjusted EBITDA guidance to a range of $4.47 to $4.57 billion, reflecting an increase of $445 million, or 11% at the midpoint from initial guidance [6][14] - Free cash flow for 2025 is now expected to be in the range of $2.275 to $2.525 billion, with free cash flow after non-controlling interest projected at $1.495 to $1.695 billion, an increase of $250 million at the midpoint from previous guidance [7][16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - USPI's adjusted EBITDA grew 12% year-over-year to $492 million, with same-facility revenues increasing by 8.3% and total joint replacements in ASCs growing by 11% [4][11] - The hospital segment's adjusted EBITDA increased 13% to $607 million, with same-store hospital admissions up 1.4% and revenue per adjusted admission rising 5.9% [5][12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The exchange business represented 8.4% of total admissions and 7% of total consolidated revenues in Q3, with a slight increase in total as a percent of admissions from Q2 [24][68] - The company noted healthy patient demand supporting same-store volume growth and a stable operating environment for 2026 [8][9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on higher acuity services, which has led to improved margins and strong earnings growth [9][10] - There is a robust M&A and de novo activity, with 11 centers acquired and two new centers opened in Q3, emphasizing high-acuity procedures [5][6] - Capital expenditures for 2025 are expected to be between $875 million and $975 million, reflecting a $150 million increase at the midpoint over prior expectations [6][16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the business's performance, citing strong same-store revenue growth, high patient acuity, and effective cost controls [11][14] - There is uncertainty regarding enhanced premium tax subsidies and their impact on reimbursement and enrollment in exchanges for 2026, but management remains optimistic about patient demand [8][9] Other Important Information - The company recognized a $38 million pre-tax impact for Medicaid supplemental revenues related to prior years in Q3 2025, totaling $148 million year-to-date [12][54] - The leverage ratio as of September 30 was 2.3 times EBITDA, indicating strong operational performance and financial discipline [13][14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Q4 guidance and utilization expectations - Management has not built in expectations for higher utilization due to exchange subsidies expiring, but they are prepared for typical demand increases in Q4 [19][20] Question: CapEx inputs and allocation - The increased CapEx is focused on clinical program infrastructure and growth strategies, particularly in high-acuity services [25][26] Question: Free cash flow sustainability - The company highlighted improved cash collections and operational efficiencies as key drivers for sustainable free cash flow [28][29] Question: ASC volumes and service line performance - Growth in ASC volumes was driven by higher acuity services, with healthy GI recovery noted in Q3 [46][48] Question: Contribution from DPP in provider taxes - The company recorded approximately $346 million in supplemental Medicaid programs in Q3, with $148 million being out-of-period [52][54] Question: M&A environment for ASCs - The company remains a partner of choice in the ASC market, focusing on high-end specialties and multi-specialty centers [64][66] Question: Impact of CMS WISER model - The company is prepared for changes in pre-authorization requirements and is confident in managing operational adjustments [69][70] Question: Inpatient-only list removal impact - The potential removal of the inpatient-only list could benefit the USPI segment, but quantification of the impact is still under discussion [73][74]

Arch Capital Group (NasdaqGS:ACGL) Q3 2025 Earnings Call October 28, 2025 10:00 AM ET Company ParticipantsRyan Tunis - Managing DirectorAndrew Andersen - Equity Research VPNicolas Papadopoulo - CEOMeyer Shields - Managing DirectorBrian Meredith - Managing DirectorAndrew Kligerman - Managing DirectorFrancois Morin - EVP, CFO, and TreasurerElyse Greenspan - Managing DirectorJosh Shanker - Managing DirectorConference Call ParticipantsRob Cox - VP and Equity Research AnalystAlex Scott - Equity Research AnalystM ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a record after-tax operating income of over $1 billion and net income exceeding $1.3 billion, both up 37% year over year [5] - After-tax operating earnings per share reached $2.77, representing an 18.5% annualized operating return on average common equity [5] - Year-to-date book value per share growth was 17.3%, with a quarterly consolidated combined ratio of 79.8% reflecting excellent underwriting performance [5][15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The property and casualty insurance group reported underwriting income of $129 million, up 8% year over year, with a combined ratio of 93.4% [7] - The reinsurance segment achieved a record underwriting income of $482 million, with a combined ratio of 76.1%, showing significant improvement [9][17] - The mortgage segment generated $260 million of underwriting income for the quarter, maintaining a strong performance despite modest mortgage originations [11][18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net return premium in North America for liability occurrence grew by 17%, while property and short-tail book increased by 15% [8] - International premium volume remained essentially flat, indicating a stable but challenging market environment [8] - The company noted increasing competition in the market, leading to a focus on underwriting discipline and risk-based pricing [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to maximize returns for shareholders over the long term by deploying capital into attractive underwriting opportunities [6][13] - The strategy includes prioritizing profitable growth while maintaining flexibility across insurance, reinsurance, and mortgage segments [7] - The company is actively looking to invest in businesses that generate superior risk-adjusted returns, with a focus on the middle market [9][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate a transitioning market, emphasizing the importance of underwriting discipline and data analytics tools [6][68] - The outlook for the insurance segment remains bullish, with expectations for growth in casualty lines despite some headwinds in professional lines [25][40] - Management acknowledged the challenges posed by a competitive environment but remains optimistic about the company's positioning and capital strength [13][20] Other Important Information - The company repurchased $732 million of shares in the quarter, reflecting a strong capital position and commitment to returning capital to shareholders [20] - The delinquency rate for the mortgage insurance business increased to 2.04%, aligning with seasonal expectations [18] - The company maintains a conservative investment portfolio, with net investment income reaching a quarterly record of $408 million [11][12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Future Buyback Levels - Management indicated that share buybacks will likely be the preferred method of capital return in the short term, given strong earnings and limited growth opportunities [23][24] Question: Insurance Premium Growth Outlook - Management remains bullish on insurance growth, particularly in casualty lines, despite some non-renewals and market softening [25][26] Question: Impact of Hurricane on Exposure - Management stated it is too early to assess potential exposure from a hurricane affecting the Caribbean [28][30] Question: Reinsurance Growth Normalization - Management estimated that normalized growth in reinsurance, absent one-off items, might have been around a decrease of 3% to 4% [34][35] Question: MGA Marketplace Growth - Management expressed skepticism about the long-term sustainability of the MGA model, citing concerns over incentive alignment and information delays [82]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated sales increased at the high end of the guided range, with adjusted EBITDA margin expanding by 60 basis points to 21.4% and adjusted diluted EPS growing by 6.5% [4][6] - SG&A growth moderated to low single digits, in line with expectations, driven by control of general and administrative expenses [5][6] - The company returned $864 million to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - **Paint Stores Group**: Sales increased by mid-single digits, with price mix up at the high end of low single digits and volume up low single digits [8] - **Consumer Brands Group**: Sales exceeded expectations, with price mix up low single digits and volume down mid-single digits, affected by softness in North America DIY [10] - **Performance Coatings Group**: Sales were in line with expectations, with volume, acquisitions, and FX all increasing by low single digits, but offset by unfavorable price mix [11][12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company outperformed the market in all segments served, despite a softer demand environment [8] - Residential repaint sales grew by mid-single digits, continuing a trend of growth since early 2022, despite negative existing home sales [8] - Commercial sales were up mid-single digits, even with multifamily completions down double digits [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to focus on growth investments, controlling costs, and leveraging a unique competitive environment [4][7] - The acquisition of Suvinil is expected to enhance the Consumer Brands Group's portfolio and provide profitable growth opportunities [11][48] - The company plans to continue investing in growth initiatives, including opening 80 to 100 North American paint stores for the year [15][18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted a challenging demand environment is expected to persist into 2026, with minimal positive catalysts currently visible [16][20] - The company is focused on driving customer success and maintaining profitability despite market challenges [20][21] - Management expressed confidence in their strategy and the team's ability to outperform the market [21] Other Important Information - The company temporarily paused matching contributions to its 401(k) plan to preserve jobs and protect the company during a period of uncertainty [13][14] - The company expects to see a modest cost headwind next year due to new headquarters and R&D center investments [19][20] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide more details on the 7% price increase for Paint Stores Group? - Management explained that the price increase is driven by higher year-over-year costs and the need to balance volume growth with pricing effectiveness [24][25] Question: What mortgage rates are needed to catalyze demand in the Paint Stores Group? - Management indicated that around 6% mortgage rates could drive stronger existing home turnover, which is crucial for demand [32][33] Question: How do you define the efficiency of investment spending? - Management emphasized a disciplined approach to investments, focusing on returns and adjusting spending based on market conditions [38][39] Question: What actions are planned for the Suvinil acquisition? - Management expressed excitement about the acquisition and the potential for synergies, expecting it to contribute positively to sales and profitability [45][48] Question: What is the outlook for the second half of next year? - Management noted that current trends do not indicate a strong recovery, emphasizing a pragmatic approach to forecasting [50][51] Question: Can you discuss the negative operating leverage in Performance Coatings? - Management attributed the negative leverage to unfavorable mix by region and business, but expects improvements in the fourth quarter [78][80] Question: What is the expected pricing capture in 2026? - Management indicated that pricing capture will depend on market dynamics, but they plan to be aggressive in balancing volume growth with price increases [63][64] Question: How much volume hurt gross margin rate this year? - Management noted that supply chain inefficiencies impacted gross margin, but they expect volume growth to drive operating margin expansion [110][111]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted EPS was reported at $1.64, reflecting a 5.6% core sales growth, primarily driven by Aerospace & Electronics and Process Flow Technologies [5][19] - Adjusted operating profit increased by 19%, supported by strong net pricing and productivity [19] - Core FX neutral backlog rose by 16% year-over-year, indicating continued strength in Aerospace & Electronics [19][21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Aerospace & Electronics sales reached $270 million, a 13% increase, with total aftermarket sales up 20% [21][22] - Process Flow Technologies delivered sales of $319 million, up 3%, with flat core performance and a slight benefit from acquisitions and foreign exchange [22][23] - Adjusted segment margin for Aerospace & Electronics expanded to 25.1%, while Process Flow Technologies saw a margin of 22.4%, reflecting strong productivity and pricing [22][23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The defense and aerospace markets remain robust, with expectations for low double-digit core sales growth for the year [11][21] - The chemical market showed softness, particularly in Europe and China, but North America and the Middle East exhibited positive activity [31][32] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is on track to close the acquisition of Precision Sensors & Instrumentation, which is expected to enhance financial profiles and margins [6][9] - The strategic outlook remains focused on operational execution and commercial excellence, with an organic growth assumption of 4% to 6% for 2026 [8][24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the ability to navigate current macroeconomic challenges and maintain operational consistency [19][25] - There is optimism regarding the stabilization and potential recovery of the chemical market in the upcoming year [42] Other Important Information - The company raised its full-year adjusted earnings outlook to a range of $5.75 to $5.95, reflecting a 20% growth at the midpoint compared to the previous year [7][24] - The company expects to offset tariff impacts through pricing and productivity measures, with a gross cost increase of approximately $30 million for the year [21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the expectations for the non-chemical portion of Process Flow Technologies? - Management indicated strong growth in wastewater and cryogenics, with double-digit growth expected in these areas [30][31] Question: What are the key drivers of margin upside in Process Flow Technologies? - The margin upside is attributed to innovation, new product launches, and effective pricing strategies [34][36] Question: How is the company preparing for potential impacts from a U.S. government shutdown? - Currently, there are no expected impacts from the government shutdown, and operations remain stable [57] Question: What is the outlook for organic growth in Aerospace & Electronics next year? - Management expects to be at the high end of the long-term growth range of 7% to 9% for Aerospace & Electronics [104] Question: How does the company view automation in its operations? - The focus is on specific tasks for automation rather than complete factory automation, addressing skilled labor gaps [96][98]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - NAREIT FFO was reported at $0.56 per share for the third quarter, driven by same-property NOI growth of 4% [12] - Base rent growth decreased to a 270 basis point contribution due to a 150 basis point drop in billed occupancy compared to the previous year [12] - The company expects base rent growth to accelerate into 2026 as billed occupancy rebounds [12][15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company executed 1.5 million square feet of new and renewal leases at a blended cash spread of 18% [6] - New leases were signed at a record rate of $2,585 per square foot, with small shop occupancy hitting a record of 91.4% [6][7] - The signed but not yet commenced rent pipeline remains above $60 million, with $22 million of ABR commenced during the quarter [7][13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The percentage of ABR from grocery anchor tenants is now at 82%, with a 35% increase in year-over-year traffic when adding a grocer [9] - The company closed on the $223 million acquisition of LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch, with seven new leases signed or in process [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to focus on executing its business plan, attracting high-quality tenants in a supply-constrained environment [11] - The redevelopment platform is delivering low-risk, compelling returns with several years of runway for future growth [11] - The company is positioned to recycle capital from low-growth assets into those with higher growth potential [11][33] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the leasing environment, noting that the pipeline is higher than a year ago despite signing 10% more in GLA this year [38] - The company anticipates significant tailwinds from 2025 rent commencements and a strong signed but not yet commenced rent pipeline [16] - Management expects lease settlement income to be a headwind to 2026 FFO growth but remains confident in the overall outlook [15][44] Other Important Information - The company announced a 7% increase in its annual dividend to a rate of $1.23, allowing for maximum flexibility in capital allocation [15] - The SEC shelf registration statement is due to expire next month, and a replacement will be filed [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Factors contributing to same-store NOI growth acceleration in Q4 - Management highlighted the commencement of $22 million of rent in the quarter and an additional $19 million expected to commence between Q3 and Q4 [18][19] Question: Future occupancy levels and reinvestment pipeline - Management noted that there is room for improvement in shop occupancy, with several hundred basis points of potential growth [25][26] Question: Acquisition pipeline and cap rates - Management indicated that the market remains competitive, focusing on value-add opportunities and recycling capital into higher growth assets [30][32] Question: Leasing pipeline and retailer expansion - Management remains optimistic about the leasing environment, with retailers looking to expand despite macro uncertainties [37][38] Question: Tenant health and bad debt expense - Management expressed confidence in tenant credit quality and noted a significant reduction in exposure to at-risk tenants [47][48] Question: Yield expectations for redevelopment projects - Management stated that the average yield for redevelopment projects remains in the high single-digit to low double-digit range, with no changes to their thresholds [71][73] Question: Capital recycling and disposition pipeline - Management emphasized the importance of recycling capital from low-growth assets into those with higher growth potential [83][86]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated net sales reached $269 million, up more than 17% year over year, with organic growth exceeding 16% for the quarter [12][11] - Consolidated operating profit increased by 34% year over year to $30.3 million, reflecting strong revenue growth and a 140 basis point expansion in operating margin [13] - Adjusted EBITDA grew more than 25% to $48 million, with a margin improvement of 110 basis points to 17.8% [14] - Adjusted EPS increased to $0.61, representing a 42% increase compared to Q3 2024 [14] - Year-to-date sales are up 12.7%, driven almost entirely by organic growth of 12.6% [14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes Packaging Segment - Organic sales grew 2.6%, reflecting continued strength in demand for dispensers in the beauty and personal care market, partially offset by softer demand for closures and flexibles [16] - Operating profit for the quarter was $18.2 million, a 4.3% decline, primarily due to a tough year-over-year comparison [16] Aerospace Segment - Aerospace group delivered record-setting quarterly sales with a year-over-year sales increase of more than 45% [18] - Operating profit more than doubled compared to the prior year, with margins expanding by 860 basis points [18] Specialty Products Segment - Norris Cylinder delivered improved performance with sales up 31% year over year, offsetting the reduction from the divestiture of Aeroengine [19] - Overall sales growth for the segment was 7.2% compared to Q3 2024 [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The packaging segment is closely monitoring the evolving global tariff environment, which remains a significant external factor affecting the industry [17] - The aerospace and defense market continues to show strength, supported by a robust order book and disciplined contract execution [18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is launching a global operational excellence program to enhance efficiency and share best practices [5] - A comprehensive strategic planning process is underway to assess where the company wins and where untapped potential exists [6][7] - The One TriMas branding initiative aims to unify and elevate brand identity across all regions and business units [8] - The company is evaluating its global manufacturing capacity and footprint to better support growth and respond to market dynamics [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's long-term growth potential, supported by a healthy backlog and ongoing performance improvement initiatives [19] - The evolving tariff environment and macroeconomic factors are viewed as potential concerns for the packaging business [42] Other Important Information - The company raised its full-year 2025 outlook, expecting approximately 10% sales growth compared to 2024 and adjusted EPS in the range of $2.02-$2.12 [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on packaging margins expectations - Management expects packaging margins to be relatively stable in full year 2025 versus 2024 [27] Question: Cost benefits and improvement potential in packaging - Continuous improvement initiatives are expected to help manage costs going forward, with opportunities identified for further enhancements [29][30] Question: Concerns about clarity in the packaging business for 2026 - Management highlighted macro factors such as tariffs and global demand as concerns but remains optimistic about the business's potential [42][43] Question: Order book and capacity for aerospace in 2026 - The aerospace order book is strong, with capacity expected to grow around 10% annually, constrained primarily by skilled labor availability [44]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company generated a record revenue of $4.8 billion in Q3 2025, with a gross profit of $803 million and a gross profit margin of 16.7% [7] - Adjusted earnings per share (EPS) was $7.17, with adjusted EBITDA at $261 million [7][16] - Adjusted net income for the quarter was $140 million, excluding various non-cash and one-time expenses [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Same-store revenue for new vehicles increased by 8% year-over-year, with unit sales up by 7% [9] - Used vehicle unit volume decreased by 4% year-over-year, but used retail gross profit per unit (GPU) increased to $1,551 [10] - Parts and service gross profit rose by 7% year-over-year, with a gross profit margin of 58.8% [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced strong demand for electric vehicles (EVs), with EV unit sales doubling from Q2 to Q3 [25] - Same-store new vehicle day supply was 58 days at the end of September, indicating a stable inventory level against consumer demand [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on deleveraging its balance sheet and optimizing its portfolio while being opportunistic with share repurchases [6][20] - The integration of the Chambers Group is expected to enhance operating metrics and contribute positively to gross profits [4][26] - The strategy emphasizes large, transformative acquisitions in desirable markets [6] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the fourth quarter is traditionally strong for luxury vehicle sales, with expectations for margins to hold up well [25] - There are anticipated headwinds in the used vehicle market due to a softening labor market and vehicle affordability challenges [10] - The company expects to see efficiency gains from the rollout of Tekion, with significant savings projected by early 2027 [60][61] Other Important Information - The company divested four stores in July, generating annualized revenue of $300 million, as part of its disciplined portfolio management [6] - The adjusted SG&A as a percentage of gross profit was 64.2%, with expectations for reduction as the Tekion rollout progresses [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact of Chambers acquisition on new GPUs - Management confirmed that the Chambers acquisition is expected to have a slightly accretive effect on new GPUs in Q4 [26] Question: Changes in TCA outlook and EPS impact - Management explained that the revised TCA outlook reflects changes in the SAR assumption and the impact of acquisitions and divestitures [31][33] Question: Capital allocation priorities - Management indicated a focus on share repurchases and debt reduction, with M&A remaining a consideration depending on market conditions [44] Question: Trends in luxury vehicle sales - Management noted that luxury vehicle sales remain strong, with no material changes in consumer demand observed [51] Question: Strategies for increasing used vehicle volume - Management highlighted the use of digital marketing tools and a focus on service drives to acquire more used vehicles [65]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a 9.2% increase in consolidated sales year-over-year, with acquisitions contributing 6.3 percentage points to this growth [17] - EBITDA increased by 13.4% year-over-year, resulting in EBITDA margins of 12.2%, which expanded by 46 basis points from the previous year [21] - Earnings per share (EPS) rose by 11.4% to $2.63, benefiting from a reduced share count due to buyback activity [21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The service center segment saw organic sales growth of 4.4%, driven by internal initiatives and firming technical MRO demand [22] - The engineered solutions segment experienced a 19.4% increase in sales, primarily due to acquisitions, but organic sales decreased by 0.4% year-over-year [23] - Hydradyne's EBITDA contribution improved by over 20% sequentially, indicating strong progress in integration and synergy initiatives [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Year-over-year organic sales growth was reported at 3%, the strongest in two years, with 16 out of the top 30 markets generating positive sales growth [6][17] - Strongest growth was observed in machinery, food and beverage, refining, pulp and paper, metals, oil and gas, and aggregates, while declines were noted in lumber and wood, transportation, chemicals, mining, and utilities [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on M&A as a top capital allocation priority for fiscal 2026, with an active pipeline of mid-sized targets [15] - Continued investments in engineering systems and production capacity are expected to leverage demand tailwinds moving forward [11] - The company aims to capitalize on trends in automation, life sciences, and technology, positioning itself to link legacy industrial production with advanced applications [32] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management described the underlying demand backdrop as stable to slightly positive, with expectations for continued improvement in core markets [6][30] - The company anticipates a choppy near-term sales environment due to seasonal factors and trade policy uncertainty, but remains optimistic about the second half of fiscal 2026 [30][28] - Positive order momentum and customer sentiment are gradually improving, with expectations for increased capital investment decisions [31] Other Important Information - The company achieved 17% incremental margins on EBITDA, despite ongoing inflationary pressures [13] - Cash generated from operating activities was $119.3 million, with free cash flow totaling $112 million, representing a conversion of 111% relative to net income [25] - The balance sheet remains strong, with approximately $419 million in cash and net leverage at 0.3x EBITDA [26] Q&A Session Summary Question: Holiday shutdowns and customer activity - Management indicated it is still early to assess customer plans for holiday shutdowns, but some customers are expected to remain active [36] Question: Supplier pricing behavior - Management noted no significant changes in supplier behavior, with price increases being orderly and manageable [39][40] Question: Engineered solutions performance - Management expects engineered solutions to potentially outperform service centers in the second half of fiscal 2026 due to order backlog conversions [44] Question: Order growth dynamics - Management explained that project complexity and scheduling variances affect order conversion times, but remains optimistic about the pipeline [52] Question: Pricing expectations - Management stated that pricing contributions were better than expected, but it is too early to predict further increases beyond the current guidance [55] Question: Capital allocation priorities - Management confirmed that organic growth opportunities and M&A remain top priorities, with ongoing strong cash generation [63] Question: Margin guidance and dynamics - Management highlighted that LIFO expenses and non-routine rebates from the previous year would impact sequential EBITDA margins [68] Question: Hydradyne synergies - Management confirmed that Hydradyne's integration and synergy initiatives are on track, with positive contributions expected [72]