Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Core FFO for Q4 was $4.26 per share, resulting in full-year core FFO of $16.97 per share, at the high end of guidance [22] - Same-store revenue and NOI growth for the quarter were -0.2% and -1.5% respectively, with declines in move-in rents offset by strong existing customer performance [22] - Non-same-store NOI growth was 20%, contributing to a 1.2% year-over-year increase in Core FFO per share [23] - The company has established an initial Core FFO range for 2026 of $16.35-$17, indicating a year-over-year decline of 1.7% [27] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has invested over $12 billion, expanding its portfolio by 763 assets, which are expected to deliver outsized growth [10] - The development pipeline at year-end was $610 million, with stabilized yields targeting 8% [24] - The lending platform has grown, with $131 million deployed in 2025, bringing the total outstanding lending business to $142 million [25] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - 10% of the U.S. population currently uses storage, with increasing adoption among Generation Z, millennials, and the 65+ cohort [13] - Competitive supply is slowing as new development becomes harder and more expensive, with momentum building in the strongest markets [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is unveiling PS 4.0, a new strategic vision designed to drive accelerated performance and long-term value creation [5][14] - The strategy focuses on three core pillars: PS Next operating platform, a value creation engine, and an "Own It" culture [15][19] - The company aims to enhance customer experience through AI and data science, optimizing pricing and operational efficiency [16][70] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expects 2026 to be slightly better than 2025, with same-store revenue and NOI guidance at -1.1% and -2.2% respectively [27] - The company anticipates occupancy to remain stable, with new move-in rents expected to improve throughout the year [27][39] - Management is optimistic about the potential for organic growth and value creation through acquisitions and operational improvements [60] Other Important Information - The company has made significant leadership changes, including the promotion of Tom Boyle to CEO and the addition of Joe Fisher as President and CFO [6][7] - The headquarters is relocating to Frisco, Texas, which is expected to enhance operational efficiency and talent acquisition [62] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the greatest near-term opportunities for external growth? - Management highlighted a variety of seller types and sizes, with a focus on single and double type opportunities, as well as small and medium-sized portfolios [32][33] Question: What is the expected cadence of same-store revenue growth throughout the year? - Management indicated that while there may be pressure on year-over-year revenue initially, they expect improvements by the fourth quarter of 2026 [36][39] Question: Can you provide an update on move-in rents thus far into Q1? - Move-in rents for January were down 7%, but occupancy increased by about 40 basis points, indicating a healthy start to the year [44] Question: What is the long-term growth profile of the company? - The company aims to build on past outperformance through organic growth and a strong focus on customer experience, with additional contributions from acquisitions and ancillary businesses [60]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Core FFO for Q4 was $4.26 per share, resulting in full-year core FFO of $16.97 per share, at the high end of guidance [23] - Same-store revenue and NOI growth for the quarter were -0.2% and -1.5% respectively, with declines in move-in rents offset by strong existing customer performance [23] - Outside the same-store pool, NOI growth of 20% in the non-same-store pool contributed to a 1.2% year-over-year increase in Core FFO per share [24] - The company ended the year with available liquidity of $1.8 billion and a debt plus preferred equity to EBITDA ratio of 4.2x [26] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company acquired $131 million in new acquisitions during the quarter, bringing the total for 2025 to $953 million [25] - Development openings totaled $409 million for the year, with a total development pipeline of $610 million targeting stabilized yields of 8% [25] - The lending platform grew with $131 million deployed in 2025, bringing the total outstanding lending business to $142 million [25] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - 10% of the U.S. population currently uses storage, with self-storage adoption increasing among Generation Z, millennials, and the 65+ cohort [12] - Competitive supply is slowing as new development becomes harder and more expensive, with momentum building in the strongest markets [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is unveiling PS 4.0, a new strategic vision designed to drive accelerated performance and long-term value creation [5][14] - The strategic vision focuses on three core pillars: PS Next operating platform, value creation engine, and an "own it" culture [15][19] - The company aims to enhance customer experience through AI and data science, optimizing pricing and operational efficiency [16][70] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expects 2026 to show slight improvement over 2025, with same-store revenue and NOI guidance at -1.1% and -2.2% respectively [27] - The company anticipates occupancy to remain stable, with new move-in rents expected to improve throughout the year [40] - Management is optimistic about the potential for organic growth driven by strong customer performance and decreasing supply [60] Other Important Information - The company has undergone significant leadership changes, with Tom Boyle promoted to CEO and Joe Fisher appointed as President and CFO [6][7] - The headquarters is relocating to Frisco, Texas, which is expected to enhance operational efficiency and talent acquisition [62] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the greatest near-term opportunities for growth? - Management highlighted a variety of seller types and sizes, with a focus on single and double opportunities, as well as small and medium-sized portfolios [32] Question: What is the expected cadence of same-store revenue growth? - Management indicated that while there may be pressure on year-over-year revenue initially, they expect improvements by the fourth quarter of the year [40] Question: Can you provide an update on move-in rents? - Move-in rents for January were down 7%, but occupancy remained stable, indicating a healthy start to the year [44] Question: What is the long-term growth profile of the company? - The company aims to build on past outperformance through organic growth and a strong focus on customer experience, supported by a value creation engine [60]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Core FFO per share for Q4 was $4.26, resulting in full-year core FFO of $16.97 per share, at the high end of guidance [23] - Same-store revenue and NOI growth for the quarter were -0.2% and -1.5% respectively, with declines in move-in rents offset by strong existing customer performance [23] - Non-same-store NOI growth was 20%, contributing to a 1.2% year-over-year increase in Core FFO per share [24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company acquired $131 million in new acquisitions during the quarter, bringing the total for 2025 to $953 million [25] - Development openings totaled $409 million for the year, with a total development pipeline of $610 million targeting stabilized yields of 8% [25] - The lending platform grew with $131 million deployed in 2025, totaling $142 million at a current rate of approximately 7.9% [25] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - 10% of the U.S. population currently uses storage, with increasing adoption among Generation Z, millennials, and the 65+ cohort [12] - Competitive supply is slowing as new development becomes harder and more expensive, with momentum building in the strongest markets [12] - The company expects occupancy to remain stable, with new move-in rents projected to improve throughout the year [27] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company unveiled PS 4.0, focusing on customer experience, strong capital allocation, and a winning culture to drive performance [4][15] - The strategic vision includes three core pillars: PS Next operating platform, value creation engine, and an "own it" culture [15][19] - The company is investing in AI and data science to enhance customer interactions and operational efficiency [16][69] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the team's ability to drive outperformance and revenue growth despite recent challenges [24] - The economic backdrop for 2026 is expected to be slightly better than 2025, with same-store revenue and NOI guidance at -1.1% and -2.2% respectively [27] - Management highlighted the importance of investing in the platform to control outcomes and prepare for future improvements [86] Other Important Information - The company is relocating its headquarters to Frisco, Texas, to consolidate operations and leverage talent [62] - The transition in leadership includes Tom Boyle as CEO and Joe Fisher as President and CFO, with a focus on succession planning [4][5] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the greatest near-term opportunities for growth? - Management noted a variety of seller types and sizes, with a focus on single and double opportunities, as well as small and medium-sized portfolios [32] Question: What is the expected cadence of same-store revenue growth throughout the year? - Management indicated that year-over-year revenue is a backward-looking indicator, with expectations for improvement in the fourth quarter of 2026 [36][40] Question: Can you provide an update on move-in rents thus far into Q1? - Move-in rents for January were down 7%, but occupancy remained stable, indicating a healthy start to the year [44] Question: What is the long-term growth profile of the company with PS Next? - The company aims to build on past outperformance through organic growth and a strong focus on customer experience, with additional contributions from acquisitions and ancillary businesses [58] Question: What are the operational or financial benefits of relocating the headquarters? - The relocation is expected to enhance operational efficiency and talent acquisition, with some associated costs already factored into corporate transformation expenses [62][64]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q4 2025, the company generated revenues of $1.6 billion, up 5% year-over-year, with adjusted EBITDA of $245 million, reflecting a 6% increase [10][11] - Full-year internal revenue growth was solid at 5%, with commercial real estate segment net revenue up 7% [10][11] - Investment management ended the year with over $108 billion in assets under management, flat relative to September 30 [6][14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Capital Markets revenues increased by 13%, driven by strong activity in the U.S., while leasing revenues rose by 3% [11][12] - Outsourcing solutions grew by 8%, with valuation practices contributing significantly [11] - Engineering segment net revenue was up 8%, supported by recent acquisitions, with a strong revenue backlog providing visibility for future growth [12][16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. market showed strong performance, particularly in Capital Markets and leasing activities, while EMEA and Asia Pacific experienced modest growth [11][35] - The company expects low teens top-line growth in commercial real estate for 2026, with Capital Markets projected to grow in the high teens [16][63] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on expanding its diversified platform and pursuing further acquisitions, with the recent acquisition of Ayesa Engineering expected to enhance growth opportunities [4][5] - AI is viewed as a productivity and growth enabler, helping to automate routine tasks and improve efficiency across all segments [8][9] - The company aims to maintain a strong partnership model, emphasizing inside ownership to align leaders with clients and shareholders [7] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about entering 2026 with strong momentum and a healthy pipeline, expecting solid internal growth and contributions from recent acquisitions [7][16] - The company anticipates mid-teens growth across key operating metrics, driven by favorable trends in infrastructure and urbanization [16][63] Other Important Information - The company plans to maintain leverage at around 2x, with the recent acquisition expected to add approximately 0.7 turns of leverage on a pro forma basis [15][70] - Fundraising targets for 2026 are set between $6 billion and $9 billion, with several funds currently in the market [13][66] Q&A Session Summary Question: Organic growth in engineering - Management noted strong demand for services, with opportunities to increase pricing and a growing workforce to meet demand [19][20] Question: Capital allocation and share buybacks - Management indicated a preference for careful capital management, with no immediate plans for stock buybacks due to ongoing acquisitions [28] Question: Macro perspective on Capital Markets - Management does not expect rate cuts to impact their outlook, citing pent-up demand for transactions as a key driver for growth [35][36] Question: AI's impact on business - Management sees AI as a margin enhancer rather than a disruptor, emphasizing its role in improving efficiency and decision-making [72] Question: Ayesa acquisition and growth expectations - Management expects high single-digit organic growth for Ayesa, leveraging its expertise in high-demand markets [80][81] Question: Fund performance and fundraising - Fund performance has been strong, with the flagship fund exceeding benchmarks, aiding in fundraising efforts [67][68]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales for Q4 2025 were $447 million, a 9.8% increase from $407 million in Q4 2024, driven by pricing, higher volumes, and favorable foreign exchange [10][16] - Full year sales reached $1.764 billion, up 5.7% from $1.67 billion in 2024, supported by higher volumes and pricing actions [11][18] - Adjusted EBITDA for Q4 was $85 million (19.1% margin), compared to $78 million (19.1% margin) in the prior year [10][18] - Full year adjusted EBITDA was $354 million (20% margin), up from $330 million (19.7% margin) in 2024 [11][20] - Adjusted earnings per share for Q4 was $0.66, compared to $0.58 in the previous year [10][18] - Full year adjusted EPS was $2.73, an increase from $2.50 in 2024 [11][20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company will report on two segments in 2026: Power Solutions and Industrial Solutions, following the acquisition of Koch Filter [4] - The Power Solutions segment is expected to generate revenue between $1.79 billion and $1.85 billion, reflecting a 3% increase at the midpoint from the previous year [14] - The Industrial Solutions segment is projected to generate revenue between $155 million and $165 million, including one week of sales from Koch Filter [14][25] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The heavy-duty market is expected to be flat to up 10% compared to 2025, while the Industrial Solutions segment is anticipated to contribute 1%-4% to growth in 2026 [12][14] - Overall pricing is expected to provide approximately 1% of revenue growth, with a weaker U.S. dollar contributing an additional 1% revenue tailwind [13][14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on a four-pillar growth strategy: growing share in first fit, accelerating profitable growth in the aftermarket, transforming the supply chain, and expanding into industrial filtration markets [7][9] - The acquisition of Koch Filter is expected to enhance the company's industrial air filtration platform and provide opportunities for organic and inorganic growth [4][9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate challenging global markets and achieve strong performance through disciplined execution [3][22] - The outlook for 2026 includes expectations for continued strong operational performance and investment for growth, with total company revenue projected to increase by 10%-14% [14][22] Other Important Information - The company returned $78 million to shareholders in 2025, consisting of $61 million in share buybacks and $17 million in dividends [5] - The company has $69 million remaining on its share repurchase authorization and expects to repurchase $20-$40 million in 2026 [5] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on Koch Filter acquisition and data center growth - Management indicated that 8% of revenue is tied to data centers, with growth in that market expected to be in the high-teens rate [24][27] Question: Impact of tariffs on pricing - Management clarified that the 1% pricing expectation is core pricing, not directly related to tariffs, and adjustments will be made if tariff costs change [28][29] Question: Opportunities for insourcing filtration media at Koch - Management highlighted that synergies from the acquisition will primarily come from procurement and innovation workshops to enhance product offerings [33][36] Question: Outlook for off-highway markets - Management expects the off-highway markets to remain flat year-over-year, with more impact seen in the aftermarket business [37][38] Question: Adjusted EBITDA guidance and self-help levers - Management noted that the flat year-over-year adjusted EBITDA reflects strong incremental growth and ongoing evaluations for cost reductions [48][50]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q4 2025, the company generated revenues of $1.6 billion, up 5% year-over-year, with overall internal growth for the quarter being essentially flat due to strong prior comparisons [10] - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $245 million, reflecting a 6% increase over the previous year, in line with revenue growth [10] - The company's leverage declined to 2x as of December 31, benefiting from strong seasonal cash flows [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The commercial real estate segment net revenue increased by 7% in Q4, with Capital Markets revenues rising by 13%, primarily driven by strong activity in the U.S. [11] - Leasing revenues grew by 3%, led by the U.S. in office and industrial asset classes [11] - The engineering segment net revenue was up 8%, supported by recent acquisitions, while investment management net revenues increased by 6% [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. market continued to show strength, particularly in Capital Markets, which is expected to maintain high teens growth in 2026 [64] - EMEA and Asia Pacific markets experienced modest growth, with expectations for improvement in 2026 [36] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on expanding its diversified platform and has recently agreed to acquire Ayesa Engineering, which will enhance growth avenues and strengthen its global presence [5] - The strategy emphasizes leveraging AI as a productivity and growth enabler, improving efficiency and margins while allowing professionals to focus on higher-value advisory services [8][9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about entering 2026 with strong momentum and a healthy pipeline, expecting solid internal growth and contributions from recent acquisitions [7] - The company anticipates mid-teens growth across its key operating metrics for 2026, driven by a recovery in Capital Markets and strong demand in engineering and investment management [16] Other Important Information - The company raised $2.1 billion in new capital commitments during Q4 and $5.3 billion for the full year, with a fundraising target of $6 billion to $9 billion for 2026 [13][66] - The integration costs in the investment management segment are expected to continue impacting margins through the first half of 2026 [12][32] Q&A Session Summary Question: Organic growth in engineering - Management noted strong demand for services and opportunities to increase pricing, with hiring ongoing to meet demand [19][20] Question: Capital allocation and share buybacks - Management indicated a preference for careful capital management and highlighted the focus on acquisitions rather than share buybacks at this time [29] Question: Macro perspective on Capital Markets - Management does not expect rate cuts to influence their outlook, citing pent-up demand for transactions as a key driver for growth [36] Question: AI's impact on business - Management views AI as a margin enhancer rather than a disruptor, emphasizing its role in improving efficiency and enabling professionals to focus on complex transactions [71][72] Question: Ayesa acquisition and future growth - Management highlighted the strategic importance of the Ayesa acquisition for expanding into new markets and leveraging existing capabilities [56][87]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company's fourth quarter net sales were approximately $2.7 billion, an increase of 2.4% as reported, but a decrease of approximately 3.3% on a constant basis compared to the prior year [5][11] - Adjusted EPS for the quarter was $2, up approximately 3% versus the prior year, while the full year adjusted EPS was $8.96, a decrease of approximately 7.5% [5][6] - Free cash flow for the year was approximately $620 million, with a stock repurchase of approximately 1.3 million shares for $149 million [6][18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global Ceramic segment had sales of just under $1.1 billion, a 6.1% increase as reported, while Flooring North America sales were $893 million, a 4.8% decrease as reported [14][15] - Flooring Rest of the World reported sales of $737 million, a 6.5% increase as reported, but a 3.5% decrease on a constant basis [17] - The operating income for Global Ceramic was $63 million, or 5.9%, while Flooring North America had an operating income of $39 million, or 4.4% [15][16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Approximately 55% of sales were in the U.S., 30% in Europe, and 15% in other geographies [6] - Housing turnover in major regions remains at historical lows due to affordability challenges and economic uncertainty, impacting consumer confidence [6][7] - In Europe, high building costs and labor constraints continue to impede residential construction, although there are moderate recoveries in Southern and Eastern Europe [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on innovative product introductions and marketing actions to stimulate sales in soft markets [9] - Capital expenditures for 2026 are estimated at approximately $480 million, focusing on product innovation and cost reduction [19] - The company anticipates leveraging the housing recovery and improving its position through restructuring and operational improvements [10][31] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that while home renovation remains soft, there is optimism for improvement in existing home sales due to lower mortgage rates and increased housing supply [31] - The company expects competitive market conditions to persist, with pricing pressures likely to remain [30] - Management anticipates that 2026 will be a transitional year with some improvement in remodeling activity and overall sales and earnings expected to improve [31] Other Important Information - The company has initiated numerous restructuring actions and operational improvements that lowered its cost position [10] - The balance sheet remains strong, with gross debt of $2 billion and leverage of 0.9 times adjusted EBITDA [19] - The company plans to continue its stock buyback strategy as part of its financial management [88] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expectations for price and mix in 2026 - Management anticipates continued pressure in the market, with inflation levels similar to 2025, but expects pricing, improved mix, and productivity to help offset inflation [34][35] Question: Inventory management ahead of spring selling season - Inventories were taken down in the fourth quarter, and management believes they are close to where they need to be, with optimism from customers for the year [41][42] Question: Outlook for 2026 and pricing pressures - Management expects price, mix, and volume to improve, with pricing initiatives in place to recover inflation and enhance product mix [59][60] Question: Impact of tariffs and cost management - Tariffs range from 15%-50%, and management has taken actions to offset these costs through pricing and supply chain management [92][93] Question: Pricing stabilization in Flooring Rest of the World - Management noted that geopolitical events are impacting consumer confidence, but targeted price increases are expected to have a slightly positive effect as the year progresses [95]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In 2025, Agnico Eagle achieved record financial results, producing approximately 3.45 million ounces of gold with total cash costs of $979 per ounce and all-in sustaining costs of $1,339 per ounce, slightly above guidance due to higher royalty costs [12][13][15] - The company reported record adjusted earnings of approximately $1.4 billion, or $2.70 per share, and record free cash flow of over $4.4 billion for the year [12][15] - Cash position increased by $1.9 billion, ending the year with $2.9 billion in cash, while approximately $950 million of debt was repaid [15][16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Detour Lake project is expected to deliver an additional 300-350,000 ounces per year through underground development, with a tripling of investment from $100 million to $300 million [9][10] - The Canadian Malartic Complex added 9 million ounces of reserves, with production expected to increase by 400-500,000 ounces per year through a fill-the-mill strategy [10][24] - At Hope Bay, a 46% increase in inferred mineral resources was reported, with potential production of 400-425,000 ounces per year [11][27] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Gold prices increased by $1,700 year-over-year, with Agnico Eagle capturing approximately 95% of this increase in margin expansion [3][14] - The company anticipates cash costs to rise slightly over $100 per ounce in 2026, primarily due to higher royalties and a stronger Canadian dollar [5][18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Agnico Eagle aims to increase production by 20%-30% over the next decade, targeting over 4 million ounces of annual production by the early 2030s [7][49] - The company focuses on high-quality projects in stable jurisdictions, leveraging existing infrastructure to enhance returns [8][50] - Continued investment in exploration and development projects is emphasized, with a disciplined approach to capital allocation [17][50] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term gold price outlook due to global structural, financial, and political factors [51] - The company is well-positioned to deliver meaningful leverage to higher gold prices while maintaining a strong financial position [16][49] Other Important Information - The company plans to renew its normal course issuer bid in May, increasing the purchase limit up to $2 billion [16] - A significant cash tax liability of approximately $1.3 billion is expected for the 2025 fiscal year, which the company is prepared to fund [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: M&A Activity and Tendering Shares - Inquiry about Agnico's stance on M&A and whether they would tender shares to the offer currently out on Floran was met with a response emphasizing that such decisions are up to shareholders [53][54] Question: Cost Productivity Initiatives - Clarification sought on whether cost productivity initiatives were included in the 2026 AISC guidance, with management indicating partial inclusion [60][61] Question: Future CapEx Expectations - Inquiry about whether CapEx should be expected to increase in future years, with management indicating that current elevated levels are likely to continue [67][68] Question: Cost Estimates for Meadowbank Life Extension - A request for cost estimates related to the life extension at Meadowbank was addressed, with figures around $2,200-$2,300 per ounce provided [84][86]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4 2025, sales increased to $447 million, up 9.8% from $407 million in Q4 2024, driven by a 5% increase in pricing, 4% higher volumes, and 1% favorable foreign exchange [10][16] - For the full year 2025, sales reached $1.764 billion, a 5.7% increase from $1.67 billion in 2024, with adjusted EBITDA of $354 million, up from $330 million, resulting in an adjusted EBITDA margin of 20% [11][20] - Adjusted earnings per share for Q4 2025 was $0.66, compared to $0.58 in Q4 2024, while full-year adjusted EPS was $2.73, up from $2.50 in 2024 [11][20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company will report on two business segments in 2026: Power Solutions and Industrial Solutions, following the acquisition of Koch Filter [4] - The Power Solutions segment is expected to generate revenue between $1.79 billion and $1.85 billion in 2026, while Industrial Solutions is projected to contribute between $155 million and $165 million [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The heavy-duty market is expected to be flat to up 10% in 2026, while the Industrial Solutions segment anticipates a growth contribution of 1%-4% [12][14] - The company expects overall pricing to provide approximately 1% of revenue growth in 2026, with a weaker U.S. dollar expected to offer a 1% revenue tailwind [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on a four-pillar growth strategy: growing share in first fit, accelerating profitable growth in the aftermarket, transforming the supply chain, and expanding into industrial filtration markets [7][9] - The acquisition of Koch Filter is seen as a strategic move to enhance the industrial air filtration platform and drive growth [4] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged challenging global market conditions but expressed confidence in the company's ability to unlock growth potential through disciplined execution and cultural strength [3][7] - The outlook for 2026 includes expectations for total company revenue to be in the range of $1.945 billion to $2.015 billion, reflecting a 10%-14% increase compared to 2025 [14] Other Important Information - The company returned $78 million to shareholders in 2025, consisting of $61 million in share buybacks and $17 million in dividends, with $69 million remaining on the share repurchase authorization [5] - The company has a strong liquidity position with an estimated $701 million available after financing the Koch Filter acquisition [21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on Koch Filter acquisition and data center revenue - Management indicated that 8% of revenue is tied to data centers, growing at a high-teens rate, with a focus on commercial and industrial HVAC markets [24][27] Question: Impact of tariffs on pricing - Management clarified that the 1% pricing guidance is core pricing, not directly related to tariffs, and they aim to remain price-cost neutral [28][30] Question: Opportunities for insourcing filtration media at Koch - Management highlighted that synergies from the acquisition include procurement synergies and innovation workshops to enhance product development [33][36] Question: Outlook for off-highway markets - Management expects off-highway markets to remain flat year-over-year, with more significant impacts seen in the aftermarket [37] Question: Sales guidance for Industrial Solutions - Management provided a conservative sales guidance for Industrial Solutions, emphasizing transparency and the potential for growth based on market conditions [40][42] Question: Customer response to emissions regulation changes - Management noted that while recent regulatory changes may impact the market, they expect NOx standards to hold for the 2027 engine launch [44][46] Question: Adjusted EBITDA guidance - Management indicated that the flat year-over-year adjusted EBITDA reflects strong incrementals and ongoing investments to fuel top-line growth [48][50]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated revenues for the quarter were $20.5 million, down $3.5 million or 15% from the prior year quarter [13] - Gross profit was $7.4 million with a gross margin of 36.1%, compared to $7.9 million and 33% from the prior year quarter [15] - Net loss from continuing operations was $150,000 or $0.00 per diluted share, an improvement from a loss of $684,000 or $0.01 per diluted share in the prior year quarter [18] - Adjusted EBITDA was -$97,000 for the quarter, compared to -$304,000 for the prior quarter [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Contract staffing services revenues were $17.8 million, down $3.7 million or 17% from the prior year quarter [13] - Direct hire revenues were $2.7 million, up $200,000 or 8% from the prior year quarter [14] - Selling, general and administrative expenses were $7.7 million, down $700,000 or 9% from the prior year quarter [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The hiring environment for staffing services has been challenging due to over-hiring in 2021 and 2022, macroeconomic weakness, and persistent inflation [3][4] - Many businesses are implementing layoffs and hiring freezes, leading to lower volumes of business [4] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on integrating AI into its operations to enhance recruiting and sales processes [6] - Plans to restore profitability during fiscal 2026 include streamlining operations and improving productivity [17] - The company is also pursuing acquisitions in a disciplined manner, particularly in AI consulting and IT consulting [20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to manage through current challenges and restore growth and profitability [10] - The company believes its stock is undervalued and anticipates upward movement in share price once normal economic conditions return [11] Other Important Information - The company has a strong liquidity position with $20.1 million in cash and no outstanding debt [19] - The acquisition of Hornet Staffing is seen as a valuable opportunity for growth [22] Q&A Session Questions and Answers Question: What incentives would need to be put in place for management to consider a value realization event? - Management has existing employment agreements that provide necessary incentives, so no additional incentives are needed [24] Question: Is an activist investor takeover the only route towards getting a return for shareholders? - No, the board and management are committed to acting in the best interest of shareholders [25] Question: If the company was sold at a comparable multiple to peers, why is it not actively pursuing this? - There are non-public actions being taken that have not yet been disclosed, and the company believes any offer will be better than the suggested 150% increase [26] Question: When is it time for dramatic changes to correct the lower stock value? - The company is working on several new initiatives to address this concern [27] Question: Can you provide more color on what multiple offers you mentioned? - Specific details cannot be disclosed at this time, but they are being evaluated [27]