Equitable (EQH) Q2 2025 Earnings Call August 06, 2025 09:00 AM ET Company ParticipantsErik Bass - Chief Strategy Officer & Head - IRMark Pearson - President and CEORobin Raju - CFORyan Krueger - Managing DirectorNick Lane - President - EquitableThomas Gallagher - Senior Managing DirectorElyse Greenspan - Managing DirectorJack Matten - VP - Equity ResearchWilma Burdis - DirectorConference Call ParticipantsSuneet Kamath - Senior Research AnalystJimmy Bhullar - Equity Research AnalystCave Montazeri - AnalystMa ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - System wide sales increased by 10% to $890 million, and adjusted EBITDA rose by 12% considering refranchising impacts [6][14] - Adjusted net income was $61 million, with adjusted EPS of $0.47, an 18% increase year-over-year [18] - Gross margin rate increased by 80 basis points year-over-year to 40.5%, driven by labor leverage [15][18] - SG&A as a percentage of sales increased by 80 basis points year-over-year to 18.5% due to technology investments [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Same store sales increased by 4.9%, with transaction growth contributing approximately 25% to the comp [14][24] - The company added 46 new stores in the quarter, bringing the year-to-date total to 116 gross additions [10][11] - Premium product usage among customers grew both sequentially and year-over-year [7][8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced strong customer demand with no evidence of customers trading down or delaying services [7] - The impact of tariffs on financials is expected to be minimal and unchanged [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on driving core business potential and enhancing shareholder value through cost management and margin expansion [9][20] - The company is working with the FTC on the Breeze transaction, which may involve divesting certain stores to close the deal [12][94] - The company aims to improve return on invested capital through strategic store additions and refranchising efforts [11][63] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in meeting same store sales expectations for the full year, narrowing guidance to 5.8% to 6.4% [9][20] - The company remains optimistic about transaction performance and overall business momentum moving into the summer season [32][34] - Management acknowledged the inflationary environment as a significant factor but believes the fundamentals of the business remain strong [38][88] Other Important Information - The company has paused share repurchases following the Grieve announcement, with $60 million in repurchases year-to-date [18] - The company expects SG&A leverage to return in fiscal year 2026 as technology investments are fully lapped [16][35] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the scenarios for full year same store sales growth guidance? - Management noted good growth across all key metrics and expects consistent transaction growth, focusing on the midpoint of the narrowed range for Q4 [23][24] Question: What were the drivers of ticket growth? - Management indicated that premiumization, net pricing, and increased NOCR service penetration all contributed to ticket growth [27] Question: What impacted June's performance? - Management attributed the slower start in June to mild weather and timing, but noted strong customer resilience and improved performance in July [31][32] Question: How should investors think about same store sales planning for next year? - Management stated that while it's early to comment on fiscal 2026, they expect to see a return to SG&A leverage and continued strong same store sales growth [34][35] Question: Can you elaborate on the premium mix for oil changes? - Management reported that the premium mix is around 80%, driven by shifts from conventional to premium products as the car park ages [112]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The third quarter net income was $63.4 million, with diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $1.22, reflecting a 2% growth in net income but a 2% decline in diluted EPS compared to the prior year due to additional shares outstanding [5][42] - Operating revenues reached $1.024 billion, up 12% year-over-year and 7% sequentially [5][6] - Return on equity (ROE) was 13.1%, with a 49% increase in book value over the last two years [5] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The securities segment saw a 30% increase in operating revenues, driven by a 25% increase in volumes and a 15% increase in rate per million [10] - Payments revenues increased by 5% year-over-year and 6% sequentially [10] - The commercial segment's net operating revenues declined by 24%, primarily due to a 44% drop in physical contracts [12][14] - The institutional segment achieved record net operating revenues and segment income, with growth of 27% and 41% respectively [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Interest and fee income on client balances decreased by 11% year-over-year, primarily due to lower short-term interest rates [11] - Average daily volume in FX CFD contracts increased by 34%, contributing to the self-directed retail segment's 18% increase in net operating revenues [14][15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company closed the RJO and Benchmark acquisitions, which are expected to be transformational and position the company as a market leader in global derivatives [17][18] - The integration of RJO is anticipated to enhance earnings and margins, with a focus on realizing synergies within the next 3 to 12 months [22][73] - The company aims to expand its custody and clearing capabilities, including digital asset custody, to meet evolving client needs [30][40] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the commercial segment faced challenges due to tariff uncertainties and diminished volatility, impacting client activity [48][49] - The company remains optimistic about the growth trajectory following the acquisitions, expecting to capitalize on industry transformations driven by regulatory changes [43][44] - Management emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong client-centric approach amid ongoing market volatility [77][80] Other Important Information - The company reported a trailing twelve months net income of $296.9 million, up 26%, with an EPS of $5.87 [8] - The company has a robust balance sheet and diverse offerings, which are expected to support long-term growth [44] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on the weakness in the commercial segment? - Management indicated that the weakness was primarily due to tariff uncertainties and lack of volatility in the agricultural sector, which affected trading volumes [48][49] Question: Any updates on revenue synergies for RJO now that it's closed? - Management stated that while it is difficult to quantify revenue synergies immediately, they believe the potential is significant, particularly in the commercial segment [55][56] Question: What are the longer-term plans for the retail segment? - Management outlined plans to expand the retail segment into a multi-asset class offering, with infrastructure improvements expected to be completed by the end of the fiscal year [61][65] Question: What should we expect from the integration of RJ O'Brien? - Management plans to provide updates on synergy realization, with a focus on international integration expected to yield quick wins [70][73]

Itaú Unibanco (ITUB) Q2 2025 Earnings Call August 06, 2025 09:00 AM ET Company ParticipantsGustavo Rodrigues - IR Director & Investor Relations OfficerMilton Maluhy Filho - President & CEOTito Labarta - Vice PresidentGabriel Amado de Moura - CFO & Member of Executive CommitteeNicolas Riva - DirectorCarlos Gomez-Lopez - Head - LatAm Financial InstitutionsGustavo RodriguesHello. Good morning everyone. My name is Gustavo and it's a pleasure to have you with us for our 2025 earnings video conference. As always ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported adjusted EBITDA of $282 million and free cash flow of $107 million for Q2 2025, with a total revenue of €812 million [6][34] - The capital return program has returned over $1.1 billion to shareholders since Q4 2022 through dividends and share repurchases, with an additional $80 million returned this quarter [7][8] - The total backlog as of August 5 stands at €6.9 billion, with €1.1 billion scheduled for revenue conversion for the remainder of the year [35] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company secured new contracts with a total contract value of $2.8 billion year-to-date, indicating strong commercial activity [15] - The Noble Stanley LaFos was extended for five additional wells, and the Noble Viking received a one-well contract valued at $34 million [10][11] - The Noble Globetrotter I secured a two-well contract in the Black Sea valued at approximately $82 million [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The global contracted rig count currently stands at 97 rigs, down from a peak of 105-106 during 2023-2024 [18] - In South America, contracted UDW demand is 43 units, with a strong outlook supported by recent tenders from Petrobras [19] - U.S. Gulf demand has softened, with 21 contracted UDW rigs, down from 22-24 last year [20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on optimizing its fleet following the successful integration of the Diamond acquisition, achieving a $100 million synergy target ahead of schedule [8][34] - The strategy includes managing costs and active fleet posture based on current market realities, with a focus on high-end drillships [27][28] - The company anticipates a potential rebound in the deepwater market by late 2026 or 2027, supported by a credible path back to a contracted UDW rig count of around 105 [27][40] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted significant macro uncertainties affecting upstream spending, but remains optimistic about the long-term market outlook [17][38] - The company expects adjusted EBITDA to decline sequentially in Q3 due to contract rollovers and planned downtime, but anticipates a material rebound starting in 2026 [36][38] - Management emphasized the importance of cash flow maximization and returning capital to shareholders, with a target annualized free cash flow run rate of $400 million to $500 million by the second half of next year [40] Other Important Information - The company is actively pursuing opportunities in various regions, including Southeast Asia and the Americas, with significant planning and coordination required for new projects [15][16] - The harsh environment North Sea market currently represents six units of UDW demand, with expectations of muted market conditions until policy-driven impediments are removed [29][30] - Recent disposals of cold stacked drillships reflect the company's commitment to maintaining a high-spec competitive fleet [31] Q&A Session Summary Question: Guidance update clarification - Management explained the revenue guidance was lowered by about 3% due to unexercised options, while EBITDA guidance was tweaked higher due to strong cost management [43][44] Question: Strategy around key rigs - Management highlighted a strong focus on the Black Rhino, Viking, and Jerry D'Souza, with ongoing discussions for contracts that could significantly impact earnings [46][47] Question: Brazil market outlook - Management expressed a positive outlook for Brazil, anticipating flat to slightly increasing rig demand, driven by Petrobras and ongoing tenders [52][54] Question: Rig sales and retirement plans - Management confirmed that the Highlander will go to a drilling project, while the Globetrotter and Reacher are not expected to be sold for drilling purposes [55][56] Question: Near-term pricing expectations - Management indicated that day rates are currently in the low to mid-400s, with expectations for stability or slight decreases due to near-term softness [63][64] Question: Timing of Exxon rig resets - Management confirmed that new rates for Exxon rigs go into effect on March 1 and September 1, with the mechanism tracking the market effectively [73][74] Question: Impact of recent jackup market consolidation - Management stated that recent M&A activity in the jackup market does not significantly change their demand outlook or strategy [78][80] Question: Economics of current contracts - Management noted that while there may be some economic leakage in contract terms, the broader pricing strategies remain unaffected [84][86] Question: Contracting behavior and lead times - Management acknowledged unusual contracting behavior with long lead times despite softer near-term demand, driven by optimism for future projects [92][94]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported revenue of $1,030 million in Q2 2025, a 0.6% increase year over year, with nearly half of the revenue outperformance driven by foreign exchange [9][10] - Organic revenue declined by 0.5%, primarily due to a low single-digit decline in the DSA segment, partially offset by low single-digit increases in RMS and manufacturing segments [10][12] - The operating margin improved to 22.1%, an increase of 80 basis points year over year, reflecting cost savings from restructuring and better sales volume [10][11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - DSA segment revenue was $618 million, a 2.4% decrease year over year on an organic basis, driven by lower revenue for discovery services [13] - RMS revenue increased by 2.3% on an organic basis to $213.3 million, primarily driven by the timing of NHP shipments and higher revenue for research model services [21][22] - Manufacturing segment revenue was $200.8 million, a 2.9% increase on an organic basis, driven by growth in microbial solutions [25][26] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for small and mid-sized biotech clients improved slightly for the third consecutive quarter, while revenue for global biopharmaceutical clients remained below last year's level but improved sequentially [10][21] - The demand environment for global biopharmaceutical clients appears to be stabilizing, with proposal activity increasing both year over year and sequentially [15][50] - The academic and government client segments saw revenue increases despite potential NIH budget cuts, with only a minor impact observed [22] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on expanding its NAMS portfolio and enhancing scientific capabilities to support biopharmaceutical companies in transitioning to alternative technologies [19][20] - A strategic review is underway to evaluate avenues for value creation, including portfolio and capital allocation strategies [28][29] - The company aims to generate over $175 million in cost savings this year, contributing to improved financial performance [11][44] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the global biopharmaceutical demand trends appear to have bottomed and are beginning to slowly move upward [7] - The company raised its revenue and non-GAAP earnings per share guidance due to outperformance in Q2, reflecting a more favorable demand environment [12][33] - There is recognition of ongoing uncertainty in the healthcare landscape, but management remains optimistic about stabilization in demand [8][9] Other Important Information - The company experienced a slight decline in DSA backlog to $1.93 billion, with gross and net bookings improving at mid-single-digit rates year over year [14] - The non-GAAP tax rate increased to 22.7%, primarily due to stock-based compensation, but was more favorable than expected [40][41] - Free cash flow for Q2 was strong at $169.3 million, driven by higher earnings and improved working capital [42][43] Q&A Session Summary Question: Current demand environment and pharma's perspective - Management indicated that the demand situation is stabilizing for pharma, with some demand trends having bottomed [48] - Revenue and proposals are up, but cancellations have also increased, particularly for longer-term post-IND work [49][50] Question: Clarification on revenue guidance and book-to-bill ratio - Management stated that the current book-to-bill ratio is expected to remain in the range of 0.8 to 0.93, which does not require improvement to meet guidance [55] Question: CDMO performance and revenue impact - The CDMO revenue headwind is expected to be around $20 million due to the wind-down of a client relationship, with higher margins noted in the first half [62][63] Question: Backlog conversion and revenue support - Management believes the backlog is stable and robust, allowing for continued drawing from it to replace studies that slip or cancel [72][74] Question: Hiring confidence and future growth - Management expressed confidence in hiring to meet current demand, with improvements in the overall demand curve expected to support future growth [78][79] Question: Pricing stability and margin implications - Pricing in DSA remains stable, with mix favorability contributing positively to margins [82][84] Question: Cancellations in longer-term work - Cancellations are not expected to significantly impact margins, as the margin profile for different types of work is often comparable [86]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported adjusted EBITDA of $282 million and free cash flow of $107 million for Q2 2025, with a total revenue of €812 million [5][33] - The adjusted EBITDA margin was 33%, and cash flow from operations was €216 million, with net capital expenditures of €110 million [33] - The company returned an additional $80 million to shareholders through a $0.50 per share quarterly dividend, totaling over $1.1 billion in capital returns since Q4 2022 [6][34] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company secured new contracts with a total contract value of $2.8 billion, with a total backlog of $6.9 billion as of August 5 [14][34] - Significant contracts included a six-well contract with BP for carbon capture and storage in the UK North Sea and a two-well contract with OMV in the Black Sea [12][14] - The integration of the Diamond acquisition achieved a synergy target of $100 million ahead of schedule [6][34] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The global contracted rig count for ultra-deepwater (UDW) currently stands at 97 rigs, down from a peak of 105-106 in 2023-2024 [16][26] - UDW demand in South America remains strong, with 43 total units contracted, while West Africa shows softness with only 12 rigs currently contracted [18][21] - The U.S. Gulf has seen a decrease in contracted UDW rigs, currently at 21, down from 22-24 last year [20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on optimizing its fleet and managing costs effectively in a flat market while preparing for potential growth in 2026 and 2027 [26][30] - The strategy includes disposing of underperforming rigs to maintain a high-spec competitive fleet and maximize cash flow [30] - The company is actively pursuing contracts for its key rigs, including the Black Rhino, Viking, and Jerry D'Souza, which are seen as critical for future earnings [27][46] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the deepwater market firming up by late 2026 or 2027, despite current macro uncertainties [38][39] - The company anticipates a material rebound in EBITDA starting in 2026, supported by new long-term contracts and rising deepwater demand levels [36][37] - Management highlighted the importance of disciplined cost management and cash flow maximization in the current market environment [30][39] Other Important Information - The company updated its full-year 2025 guidance, lowering total revenue expectations to $3.2 billion to $3.3 billion while narrowing the adjusted EBITDA range to €1.075 billion to €1.15 billion [35] - Capital expenditures for 2025 are expected to increase to $400 million to $450 million, reflecting investments tied to recent long-term awards [36] Q&A Session Summary Question: Guidance update clarification - The company lowered top-line guidance by about 3% but increased EBITDA guidance by about 1%, attributing the revenue decrease to unexercised options and strong customer management [42][44] Question: Strategy for key rigs - The focus is on securing contracts for the Black Rhino, Viking, and Jerry D'Souza, with strong conversations ongoing for these rigs [46][48] Question: Brazil market outlook - The company views Brazil's rig demand as stable to slightly increasing, with positive narratives from Petrobras regarding upcoming tenders [53][54] Question: Rig sales and retirement plans - The Highlander will go to a drilling project, while the Reacher and Globetrotter II are not expected to be sold for drilling purposes [56][58] Question: Day rates expectations - Current day rates for UDW rigs are in the low to mid-400s, with expectations that rates may hold firm despite near-term softness [64][66] Question: Rig reset timing and impact - Rig resets occur on March 1 and September 1, with rates set a few months prior, and the mechanism has tracked the market effectively [74][75] Question: Impact of recent M&A in the jackup market - The recent M&A activity in the jackup market does not significantly change the company's demand outlook or strategy [80][81]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The consolidated net sales for the second quarter were $92.3 million, down 29.9% year-over-year but up 19.4% sequentially from Q1 [15][19] - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $10.5 million, with a margin of 11.4% of net sales, compared to $15.4 million or 11.7% of net sales in the prior year [19] - The second quarter GAAP net loss was $20.8 million, while adjusted non-GAAP net income was essentially breakeven at $1 million [19] Business Segment Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Chubby segment reported sales of $44.5 million, up 13.1% due to retail expansion and increased direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales [16] - The Solo Stove segment sales were $32.4 million, down significantly due to a decline in DTC channel sales as a result of prioritizing Minimum Advertised Price (MAP) strategies [16][19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Retail channel sales remained stable compared to the same period in 2024, driven by increased demand for Chubby's products, offset by reduced replenishment for the Solo Stove segment [17] - The company ended the quarter with inventories at $84.1 million, down $24.5 million from year-end [20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on driving bottom-line profitability, optimizing marketing spend, and investing in new product innovation [9][10][11] - A strategic transformation plan is in place to create a structurally smaller, profit-driven business model, with no current planned acquisitions [21][24] - The company aims to enhance customer connections through relevant product experiences rather than relying heavily on discounts [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The consumer landscape remains challenging, with discretionary spending under pressure and consumers showing heightened sensitivity to price and value [13] - Management is optimistic about the long-term shareholder value driven by the execution of their transformational profit-focused business model [14][19] - The company anticipates a more stable revenue cadence post-2025 as new product launches accelerate [16] Other Important Information - The company completed debt refinancing, removing the going concern disclaimer and reinstating active trading on the New York Stock Exchange [6][20] - The company has a CRM database of approximately 2.5 to 3 million customers, which is a significant asset for marketing [35] Q&A Session Summary Question: Evolution of the Solo Stove customer and brand loyalty - Management noted that a significant portion of purchases are from new customers, but core customers are also engaging with new product categories [30][34] Question: Changes in pricing and inventory management - Management confirmed that they are selectively targeting key retailers and have aligned promotional strategies to help retailers sell through excess inventory [36][38]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for Q2 2025 was $754 million, slightly up sequentially, with adjusted EBITDA at $37 million and an adjusted EBITDA margin of 4.9%, exceeding expectations and up year on year [6][13][21] - Adjusted revenue decreased by 2.6% year over year from $774 million in Q2 2024 [13] - New business Annual Contract Value (ACV) was $150 million, up 6% year over year and 38% sequentially [11][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Commercial segment adjusted revenue was $365 million, down 5.9% year over year, with adjusted EBITDA of $27 million and a margin of 7.4%, down 190 basis points [14][15] - Government segment adjusted revenue decreased by 2.9% to $238 million, but adjusted EBITDA increased by 22% to $60 million, with a margin of 25.2%, up 520 basis points [16] - Transportation segment adjusted revenue increased by 7.1% to $151 million, with adjusted EBITDA of $8 million and a margin of 5.3%, up 320 basis points [17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The qualified ACV pipeline remains strong at $3.3 billion, up 5% year over year and 6% since the beginning of 2025 [12] - The company expects improved performance in the Commercial segment in Q3 as some deals are pushed from Q2 [7][10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on portfolio rationalization, improving culture, operations, and technology, and leveraging AI to enhance capabilities [9][26] - The new Chairman of the Board, Harsh Agrawdy, is expected to contribute significantly to the company's strategic direction [9][24] - The company aims to achieve high adjusted EBITDA margins and revenue growth in the second half of the year, despite some revenue lumpiness [10][21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the market despite uncertainties related to tariffs, AI, and economic conditions [27][28] - The company is confident in achieving year-over-year revenue growth in the second half of 2025, although it may fall slightly short for the full year [20][21] Other Important Information - The company launched a new three-year share buyback program for $50 million and repurchased approximately 2.7 million shares at an average price of $2.7 [19][20] - The net leverage ratio remained at 2.7 turns, with expectations for reduction in Q3 and Q4 [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Comments on the potential impacts of the big beautiful bill, particularly around the SNAP program - Management indicated that the bill presents more opportunities than impediments, with potential fraud reduction opportunities in SNAP and open loop systems [31][32][34] Question: Drivers of new business signing momentum in the Commercial segment - Management noted consistent performance in new logos and capabilities, with a need for improved performance from account managers [35][36] Question: Timing of rationalization efforts and potential news by year-end - Management confirmed that work is underway and expressed hope for developments by the end of the year [37][39] Question: AI-driven solutions and client expansion into other services - Management confirmed that clients are seeking efficiency and quality improvements through AI, which is being implemented across various initiatives [43][44] Question: Market underestimation of revenue catalysts from regulatory developments - Management acknowledged real opportunities but emphasized that implementation speed by states is crucial [46][47] Question: Talent acquisition and attrition rates - Management reported improved retention and lower attrition rates, with muted wage pressure compared to the previous year [48][51] Question: Strategic shifts under the new Chairman's leadership - Management advised not to overreact to board changes, emphasizing continuity in strategic objectives [52][55]

Valvoline (VVV) Q3 2025 Earnings Call August 06, 2025 09:00 AM ET Speaker0Hello, and welcome, everyone, to the Valvoline's Third Quarter Earnings Conference Call and Webcast. My name is Becky, and I'll be your operator today. I will now hand over to your host, Elizabeth Klavanger with Investor Relations team to begin. Please go ahead.Speaker1Thank you. Good morning, and welcome to Valvoline's third quarter fiscal twenty twenty five conference call and webcast. This morning, Valvoline released results for th ...