Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $949 million, down $184 million from 2024, primarily due to lower upstream realizations, partially offset by higher production volumes [9] - Cash flow from operations was nearly $1.5 billion, with $2.4 billion in cash on hand at the end of the quarter [5][10] - Capital expenditures totaled $473 million, which is $11 million higher than 2024, primarily due to project timing [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Upstream earnings were $664 million, down $67 million from the first quarter, primarily due to lower realizations [9] - Downstream earnings were $322 million, down $262 million from the first quarter, mainly reflecting lower margin capture [9] - Chemical business generated earnings of $21 million, down $10 million from the first quarter [10][23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Upstream production averaged 427,000 oil equivalent barrels per day, up 9,000 barrels per day versus the first quarter and up 23,000 barrels per day versus 2024 [13] - Kearl production set a second quarter record averaging 275,000 barrels per day gross, up 19,000 barrels per day versus the first quarter [14] - Petroleum product sales were 480,000 barrels per day, up 25,000 barrels per day versus 2025, enabled by the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion [22] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on maximizing value from existing assets and selectively investing in growth opportunities, including Kearl and Coal Lake [35] - The renewable diesel facility at Strathcona has been completed, with first production beginning in July, aligning with the company's strategy of advancing responsible energy solutions [21][25] - The company plans to accelerate share repurchases through its normal course issuer bid (NCIB) [8][27] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to complete the NCIB without leveraging the balance sheet, citing strong cash flow projections [31] - The company remains optimistic about future investment opportunities and constructive dialogue with the federal government [7] - Management highlighted the importance of technology and operational efficiency in driving future growth and maintaining competitive advantages [41][49] Other Important Information - The company announced a third quarter dividend of $0.72 per share, consistent with the second quarter dividend [12] - The turnaround at Kearl was completed safely and successfully in under nineteen days, enabling a doubling of the turnaround interval [15] Q&A Session Summary Question: Why was the decision made to accelerate the NCIB? - Management expressed confidence in completing the NCIB without leveraging the balance sheet, supported by strong cash flow and commodity prices [31] Question: What drives the investment case for Imperial despite strong year-to-date performance? - Management emphasized their strategy of responsibly increasing cash flow and delivering unmatched shareholder returns, supported by competitive advantages and ongoing improvements in operations [35] Question: What insights have been gained from deploying autonomous technology? - Management noted that the autonomous haul system has successfully reduced unit cash costs and is part of a broader technology strategy [41] Question: What is the status of the SAGD projects at Cold Lake? - Management highlighted the competitive advantage of using solvent-assisted SAGD technology and provided updates on ongoing projects and future plans [104][108] Question: How does the Trans Mountain expansion impact refined product sales? - Management explained that the expansion provided additional supply flexibility, allowing the company to meet steady demand and enhance margins [78][81]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - First quarter sales were $436 million, a 7.3% increase year over year, driven by strong performance in Aerospace and Defense (A&D) and solid industrial business performance [5][15] - Consolidated gross margin for the quarter was 44.8%, down from 45.3% in the same period last year, while adjusted diluted EPS was $2.84, up from $2.54, representing an 11.8% year-over-year growth [5][17] - Free cash flow reached a record $104.3 million, with a conversion rate of 152%, compared to $88.4 million and 144% last year [5][18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - A&D sales increased by 10.4% year over year, with commercial aerospace growing by 9.6% and defense by 11.9% [6] - The industrial segment grew by 5.5% year over year, with distribution and aftermarket up by 10% [6][7] - Industrial gross margins were 46%, while A&D margins were 42.3%, with adjusted industrial gross margins at 47.1% [15][16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The backlog exceeded $1 billion for the first time, with $100 million attributed to industrial products [8] - The U.S. GDP expansion of 3% confirmed a strong industrial economy during the period [7] - Demand for products in the defense sector is expected to expand in the high single to low double digits for many quarters [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on organic growth through product innovation and market development, identifying new opportunities monthly [9] - The recent acquisition of VAACO is expected to enhance capacity and meet expanding customer requirements, particularly in the marine business [11][12] - The company has a well-defined five-year outlook and is positioned to achieve growth objectives through operational excellence and innovative product development [13][19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the future, citing unprecedented demand in several market areas and a strong balance sheet [13] - The company anticipates revenue growth of $445 million to $455 million for the next quarter, representing year-over-year growth of 11.8% to 14.4% [18] - Management noted that the recent tax treatment for capacity investment is expected to positively influence demand for products in the industrial sector [8][26] Other Important Information - Interest expense decreased by 29.1% year over year to $12.2 million due to debt payments and reduced interest rates [17] - The company plans to use generated cash to pay off a $200 million drawdown by the end of the fiscal year [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: What parts of the five-year outlook can you share? - The company aligns historical sales by account with customer outlooks, focusing on major aerospace customers and planning capacity to meet demand [22][23] Question: Will you need to spend more on CapEx? - The company is currently airfreighting manufacturing equipment to expand capacity and expects to maintain CapEx in the 3% to 4% range [26] Question: How will the infrastructure bill impact your business? - The bill is expected to positively affect demand from smaller industrial customers, while its impact on larger aerospace customers may be limited [28] Question: Can you provide details on VACCO's revenue contribution? - VACCO is expected to contribute approximately $10 million to $11 million monthly, with all revenue going into the A&D segment [31][35] Question: What are the trends in commercial aerospace? - The company expects to expand content per build rate and is negotiating contracts with OEMs for the next five years [36][37] Question: What is the duration of the $1 billion backlog? - The backlog is expected to last multiple years, with a chance of doubling in the next twelve months, primarily driven by defense programs [46][47] Question: How do you see the integration of VACCO progressing? - The integration is expected to improve margins over 18 to 24 months, similar to past acquisitions [50][52] Question: Are there any supply chain constraints anticipated? - The company has secured extensive inventories of exotic materials and does not foresee significant issues in production capacity [62]

Financial Performance - The adjusted EBITDA for the second quarter was BRL 2.6 billion, a 6.6% increase compared to the previous year, with North America being the standout segment [6] - Net income reached BRL 864 million, or BRL 0.43 per share, reflecting a 14% increase year-over-year [6] - The company's leverage ratio, net debt over EBITDA, ended at 0.85 times, significantly below the established debt policy level [8] Business Segment Performance - North American operations contributed 61% of consolidated EBITDA, marking the highest share in the company's history [4] - Brazilian operations faced challenges due to excessive steel imports, with an import penetration rate of 23.4% in the first half of the year [5] - The company plans to reduce investments in Brazil due to the unfavorable market conditions and high import levels [5][20] Market Dynamics - The North American market is experiencing high steel demand, particularly from the non-residential construction sector, with order backlogs above historical levels [10][11] - In Brazil, despite good demand for steel, the market is negatively impacted by high levels of imports, leading to concerns about future import records if trade defense mechanisms are not improved [12] - The company is closely monitoring the automotive and agricultural sectors, which are being affected by high interest rates [12] Strategic Direction - The company is committed to sustainability, achieving the lowest GHD emissions in its history at 0.85 tons of CO2 per ton of steel produced [3] - Future capital expenditures (CapEx) will be reduced, particularly in Brazil, while maintaining investments in North America to capitalize on favorable market conditions [20][22] - The company aims to balance supply and demand in North America without overextending capacity, focusing on high-value products [23][24] Management Commentary - Management expressed disappointment with the lack of effective trade defense measures in Brazil, which has led to a challenging competitive landscape [41] - The company anticipates positive cash generation in the second half of the year, with expectations for improved free cash flow [49] - Management emphasized the importance of maintaining a robust balance sheet during the current investment cycle, despite increased leverage [39] Other Important Information - The company has approved a dividend distribution of BRL 239 million, reflecting a payout ratio of 90% for the second quarter [9] - CapEx for the quarter was BRL 1.6 billion, primarily allocated to the Miguel Bernier sustainable mining project, which is 72% complete [8] - The company is executing a share buyback program, having completed 68% of the planned buybacks for the year [9] Q&A Session Summary Question: CapEx expectations and mining project details - Management discussed the sustainable mining project and its expected incremental EBITDA contribution of BRL 1.1 billion once operational [16][28] - Future CapEx levels will be reduced, particularly in Brazil, due to the lack of competitive returns in the current market [20][22] Question: Concerns about increasing net debt and cash flow - Management acknowledged the increase in net debt but emphasized that a significant portion was used for shareholder returns through dividends and buybacks [31][39] - The company expects to generate positive cash flow in the second half of the year, which should help reduce leverage [49][57] Question: Strategy for rebar market and competition - Management confirmed that Gerdau is not losing market share in the rebar segment and is focused on maintaining its competitive position despite high import levels [64][68] - The company is cautious about pricing strategies in the rebar market, given the current competitive dynamics [46][70] Question: Future investments and structural measures in Brazil - Management indicated that while investments in Brazil will be reduced, maintenance CapEx will continue to ensure competitiveness [72] - The company is exploring long-term adjustments to adapt to the current market conditions in Brazil [62][60]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted funds flow was CAD 367 million or CAD 0.48 per basic share, with net income of CAD 152 million and free cash flow of CAD 3 million [7] - Net debt decreased by CAD 96 million or 4% to CAD 2.3 billion, supported by a strengthening Canadian dollar [8] - The company repurchased CAD 41 million of its long-term notes as part of its debt reduction strategy [8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Heavy oil production grew by 7% quarter over quarter, while overall production averaged 148,095 BOE per day, a 2% increase in production per share compared to the same quarter last year [5][9] - In the Pembina Duvernay, the first pad achieved average thirty-day peak production rates of 1,865 BOE per day per well, with a 12% improvement in drilling and completion costs compared to 2024 [10][11] - In the Eagle Ford, 15 wells were brought on stream, with an approximate 11% improvement in drilling and completion costs [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The commodity backdrop in Q2 was soft, with WTI averaging CAD 64 per barrel [5] - Approximately 84% of the company's production is weighted toward crude oil and liquids, indicating significant exposure to oil price fluctuations [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to transition to full commercialization in the Pembina Duvernay through 2026 and into 2027, targeting drilling 18 to 20 wells per year [12] - The focus remains on capital discipline, prioritizing free cash flow and reducing net debt, with a target of approximately CAD 2 billion in net debt by year-end [15] - The operational achievements in Q2 provide valuable options for optimizing future plans and maximizing shareholder value [14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the quality of the asset portfolio and the ability to execute through volatile market conditions, highlighting strong performance in the Pembina Duvernay and heavy oil operations [14] - The company expects to generate approximately CAD 400 million of free cash flow in 2025, with the majority weighted to the second half of the year [15] - Management remains focused on operational excellence and financial discipline to deliver sustainable long-term value for shareholders [15] Other Important Information - The company maintains substantial financial flexibility with CAD 1.1 billion in credit facility capacity, less than 25% drawn, maturing in June 2029 [8] - The long-term debt maturity profile provides significant runway, with the earliest known maturity in April 2030 [8] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the average well cost in the Duvernay? - The average well cost is CAD 12.5 million for a 12,000-foot lateral, equating to CAD 1,000 per completed lateral foot [19] Question: What is the plan for commercialization in 2026? - The company plans to move to a one rig program in 2027, targeting 18 to 20 wells per year, with 12 to 15 wells targeted for 2026 [20][21] Question: Are there any changes in decline rates post-refracs in the Eagle Ford? - It is still early to determine decline rates, but initial rates and pressure performance are strong, indicating potential for new reservoir contact [22][23] Question: What factors contributed to the 11% improvement in Eagle Ford costs? - The improvement is attributed to service cost reductions and continued efficiency gains, including the switch to field gas for fracking operations [25][27] Question: How is the relationship with Conoco regarding the non-operating Eagle Ford asset? - The relationship with Conoco is strong, with good communication and satisfaction with the 2025 development plans [41][42] Question: What is the company's hedging strategy going forward? - The company is fairly hedged for 2025, targeting a CAD 60 floor for oil prices and planning to hedge approximately 40% by the end of the year [43][45]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - First quarter sales were $436 million, a 7.3% increase year over year, driven by strong performance in Aerospace and Defense (A&D) and Industrial segments [4] - Consolidated gross margin for the quarter was 44.8%, down from 45.3% in the same period last year, while adjusted diluted EPS was $2.84, up from $2.54, representing an 11.8% growth year over year [4][16] - Free cash flow reached a record $104.3 million, with a conversion rate of 152%, compared to $88.4 million and 144% last year [4][17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - A&D sales increased by 10.4% year over year, with commercial aerospace growing by 9.6% and defense by 11.9% [5] - The industrial segment grew by 5.5% year over year, with distribution and aftermarket up by 10% [5] - Industrial gross margins were 46%, while A&D margins were 42.3%, with adjusted industrial gross margins at 47.1% [14][15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The backlog exceeded $1 billion for the first time, with $100 million attributed to industrial products [7] - The U.S. GDP expansion of 3% confirmed a strong industrial economy, with expectations for positive demand influenced by recent tax treatments for capacity investments [6][7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on organic growth through product innovation and market development, with plans to expand capacities to meet customer demands [8][9] - The recent acquisition of VAACO is expected to enhance capabilities in marine and defense sectors, with strong synergies anticipated [10][11] - A well-defined five-year outlook is in place, with strategic planning based on historical sales and customer demand forecasts [24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the future, citing unprecedented demand in key market areas and a strong balance sheet [12] - The company anticipates continued growth in the defense sector, projecting high single to low double-digit expansion for many quarters [8] - Management noted that the industrial distribution business saw a 10% increase, indicating a positive trend in the industrial economy [45] Other Important Information - The company plans to use generated cash to pay off debt and maintain a focus on deleveraging [17] - Guidance for the second quarter projects revenues between $445 million and $455 million, representing year-over-year growth of 11.8% to 14.4% [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: What parts of the five-year outlook can be shared? - The company is aligning historical sales by account and assessing capacity needs based on customer demand forecasts [23][24] Question: Will more CapEx be needed for capacity expansion? - The company plans to maintain CapEx in the range of 3% to 4% of depreciation, with some real estate consolidation expected [26][28] Question: How will the recent infrastructure bill impact the business? - The bill is expected to positively affect demand from smaller industrial customers, while its impact on A&D is less clear [30] Question: What is the expected revenue contribution from VACCO? - VACCO is anticipated to contribute approximately $10 million to $11 million monthly, with all revenue going into the A&D segment [33][37] Question: What are the trends in commercial aerospace? - Build rates are stabilizing, and the company expects to expand content on existing contracts with OEMs [38][39] Question: Is there confidence in sustainable industrial expansion? - The company sees positive signs in industrial distribution, with expectations for growth driven by recent tax changes [44][70] Question: How is the integration of VACCO progressing? - The integration is expected to enhance margins over 18 to 24 months, similar to past acquisitions [50][51] Question: Will supply chain constraints affect growth? - The company has secured extensive inventories of exotic materials to mitigate supply chain challenges [62][63]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Ares Management reported a quarterly AUM increase to $572 billion, representing a quarter-over-quarter organic growth of 19% on an annualized basis [7] - The company declared a quarterly dividend of $1.12 per share, a 20% increase compared to the same quarter last year [3] - Management fees reached a record $900 million, reflecting a 24% year-over-year increase [32] - Fee-related earnings (FRE) grew by 26% year-over-year, with FRE margins at 41.2% [34] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The second quarter deployment in the U.S. was $27 billion, slightly higher than the previous year despite market pauses [8] - The FPAUM increased to $350 billion, representing quarter-over-quarter organic growth of 17% [8] - The secondaries business saw a 29% increase in AUM to nearly $34 billion [15] - The real estate segment raised $2.4 billion in capital during the quarter, primarily from non-traded REITs [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Approximately 55% of fundraising was from products, with 30% into commingled funds and 25% into SMAs [10] - International demand accounted for more than one-third of year-to-date flows, with strong traction in Europe and Asia [19] - The European direct lending strategy raised over $1.1 billion from new SMAs and $800 million in the wealth channel [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Ares Management is focused on scaling its fundraise and expanding its global wealth distribution network, now partnering with over 80 firms globally [19] - The company anticipates significant growth in its data center asset management business and global industrial development [9] - Ares is positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for alternative investments, particularly in the wealth channel [41] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the transaction market environment strengthening into the third quarter, supported by lower short-term rates and record amounts of private equity dry powder [27] - The integration of the GCP acquisition is progressing well, with expectations of enhanced fund performance and additional revenue streams [30] - The company remains confident in its ability to generate unique investment opportunities and maintain strong deployment across various market conditions [62] Other Important Information - The net accrued performance income balance increased by 8.5% to $1.1 billion, reflecting strong investment results [9] - Ares anticipates that perpetual capital will continue to represent a significant percentage of AUM growth, providing greater visibility in revenue growth and profitability [23] - The company is experiencing strong demand for its sports media and entertainment strategy, with significant commitments raised [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: Discussion on private credit and institutional demands - Management noted that private credit fundraising has not outpaced other alternative asset classes, but they continue to see institutional appetite for private credit [49] - They emphasized that fee pressure has not been significant, and they maintain a strong position in the market [50] Question: Opportunities in the alternative market - Management expressed enthusiasm for the democratization of alternatives and is prepared to offer products as the market opens [58] Question: Update on deployment pipelines - Management indicated confidence in the growing pipelines across various business segments, including direct lending and real estate [66] Question: Comparison of European and U.S. direct lending markets - Management highlighted that European markets are becoming more attractive due to different rate trajectories and increased investor appetite [70] Question: Retail distribution and international flows - Management confirmed ongoing investments in product development and distribution, with expectations for continued growth in international markets [78]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q2 2025, the company reported net income of $1.8 million or $0.13 per diluted share on net sales of $54.3 million, reflecting a year-over-year decline of approximately 13% in net sales [14] - Gross margins increased to 24.7% from 24.2% in the prior year, driven by lower operational costs from facility consolidation and cost rationalization [14] - Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) decreased by $1.9 million to $3.9 million compared to the prior year [15] - Total cash provided by operations remained flat at $13.3 million, with a reduction in working capital needs due to lower inventory and accounts receivable levels [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company faced a $1.6 million headwind from tariffs, which negatively impacted gross margin by approximately 200 basis points [14] - Inventory was reduced by approximately $14 million compared to the prior year, enhancing flexibility in navigating sourcing challenges [5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consumer sentiment remains below historical averages, with concerns about tariffs, inflation, and a potential economic slowdown affecting discretionary spending [7] - Elevated interest rates and a stagnant housing market have negatively impacted sales in indoor and outdoor recreational categories [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on strengthening supply chain resiliency, increasing U.S.-based manufacturing capacity, and implementing measures to mitigate tariff impacts [6] - Continued investment in product innovation is emphasized, with new product launches planned for the second half of the year [10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the current operating environment is challenging due to consumer behavior changes and tariff impacts, but the company is well-positioned to navigate these challenges [9] - The strategic groundwork laid in previous years is expected to enable the company to capitalize on market share opportunities as demand recovers [13] Other Important Information - The company repaid approximately $2 million in debt, reducing net leverage to 0.5 times trailing twelve months EBITDA, and repurchased nearly $800,000 of shares [12] - The company is evaluating strategic acquisition opportunities to expand its presence in core categories [13] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact of tariff and retail inventory situation on new product launches - Management confirmed that they are working closely with key accounts for a strong holiday season and will not change their product launch cadence, instead accelerating new product introductions [19][20] Question: Details on unfavorable product mix affecting gross margins - Management indicated that weather conditions impacted sales of basketball and outdoor recreational products, and tariff situations affected shipment timing, contributing to the unfavorable product mix [23][24]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Earnings per share for Q2 2025 were $0.62, with EBITDA reported at $715 million, showing sequential improvement due to less downtime and lower feedstock costs [14][21] - Cash returns to shareholders exceeded $500 million, with an increase in ordinary dividends and continued share repurchases [14][20] - The company is targeting approximately $200 million in reductions in working capital for 2025, alongside fixed cost reductions of $200 million [11][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Olefins and Polyolefins Americas segment generated EBITDA of $318 million, a more than 25% improvement from Q1, attributed to higher integrated polyethylene margins and less downtime [22] - The Intermediates and Derivatives segment reported EBITDA of $290 million, an increase of $79 million, driven by improved margins for styrene and propylene oxide [27] - The Advanced Polymer Solutions segment maintained EBITDA at $40 million, despite challenges in automotive markets and a slight decline in volumes [30] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - North American polyethylene industry saw domestic sales rebound to the highest volumes since 2022, with producer inventories declining by three days of sales during Q2 [23][35] - In Europe, lower naphtha and LPG feedstock costs improved margins, while capacity rationalizations are enhancing supply-demand balances [25][36] - In Asia, near-term capacity additions are pressuring regional supply-demand balances, but there is cautious optimism regarding China's stimulus programs [36] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on growing and upgrading core businesses, with a strategic emphasis on low-cost feedstocks in North America and the Middle East, and increasing access to circular and renewable feedstocks in Europe [6][8] - The planned sale of European assets is expected to reduce recurring CapEx and other costs, aligning with the strategy to optimize the portfolio [41] - The company is delaying selected growth investments until market conditions improve, preserving options for profitable growth [12][13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating the current cycle, emphasizing a disciplined approach to capital allocation and cash management [55][39] - The company anticipates improved cash flow generation in the second half of 2025, with a target of achieving 80% cash conversion for the full year [68] - There is cautious optimism regarding potential price increases in polyethylene due to improved domestic demand and low global inventories [48][72] Other Important Information - The company is on track to achieve a run rate of $600 million in incremental cash flow for 2025, exceeding the original target of $500 million [12][38] - The construction of the Muretic One chemical recycling plant in Germany is progressing well, aimed at meeting the demand for circular plastics [9][17] - The company is closely monitoring evolving tariffs and global trade flows, evaluating risks and opportunities presented by these dynamics [38] Q&A Session Summary Question: Sequential lift in O and P Americas and potential price increases - Management expects an $85 million improvement in Q3 due to less downtime and improved olefins margins, with potential for price increases if tariff uncertainties are resolved [44][45][48] Question: Safety of dividends amid cash flow challenges - The company confirmed the Q3 dividend of $1.37 per share, emphasizing strong liquidity and a commitment to maintaining dividends while managing cash flow [51][54] Question: Clarification on 2026 CapEx forecast - The 2026 CapEx forecast of $1.4 billion does not include the potential benefit from the European asset sale, which will be realized post-transaction [57][60] Question: Expectations for cash flow generation in 2025 - Management anticipates improved cash flow generation in the second half of 2025, with a target of $3 billion in EBITDA, driven by disciplined working capital management [64][68] Question: Dynamics in the Intermediates and Derivatives segment - The segment is expected to remain relatively flat in Q3, with no material improvements anticipated due to market conditions and scheduled turnarounds [78][82]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported GAAP earnings per share of $0.38, a 35% increase compared to the same quarter last year [4] - Net income for the gas business was $17,500,000, contributing to strong overall performance [5] - Revenues increased by 18.5% year-over-year, rising from $434,400,000 to $514,900,000 [24][25] - Earnings per share increased by 35.7% year-over-year, driven by favorable rate case outcomes and increased gas volume [24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The water business is expected to see annual rate base growth of 6% through 2029, not including acquisitions [15] - The gas business experienced strong revenue growth due to higher gas usage and favorable rate outcomes [24] - The water business contributed $2,100,000 to revenue growth, although lower water volumes offset some gains [25] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company serves over a million customers with a rate base exceeding $7,000,000,000 across eight states [15] - In Texas, the company has grown by nearly 25,000 connections over the last ten years, with another 90,000 under contract or negotiation [21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is reaffirming its capital investment plans with a target of approximately $1,400,000,000 in infrastructure investment for 2025 [5] - The focus remains on growing the water and wastewater business through acquisitions, with recent purchases totaling approximately $58,000,000 [32] - The company aims to maintain a strong balance sheet and deliver consistent dividend growth while keeping the payout ratio between 60-65% [34] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about future growth opportunities, particularly in Pennsylvania due to low energy costs attracting hyperscalers [7][70] - The company is committed to addressing PFAS regulations and sees potential for acquisition growth as municipalities begin to comply with new standards [20][74] - Management expects GAAP earnings per share to exceed the guidance range of $2.07 to $2.11, driven by strong performance and non-recurring benefits [5][46] Other Important Information - The Board of Directors approved a 5.25% increase in the dividend, continuing a 30-year tradition of dividend growth [10] - The company has been recognized for its community engagement efforts, being named one of Greater Philadelphia's most community-minded businesses [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on quarterly earnings guidance - Management confirmed that GAAP earnings are expected to be above the guidance range due to strong revenue and some positive tax items [41][46] Question: Trends in cash flow and PFAS settlements - Management indicated a target for funds from operations (FFO) to be above 12% and expects to receive approximately $45,000,000 in PFAS proceeds this year [48][49] Question: Insights on Pennsylvania's regulatory environment - Management noted a positive engagement with the new consumer advocate and expressed hope for constructive relationships with all advocates [54][55] Question: Fair market value and acquisition strategy - Management stated they might consider paying above the reasonable review ratio if significant rate base growth is anticipated [58] Question: Tax rate modeling for future years - Management advised to expect a low single-digit benefit for 2025 and a low single-digit expense for 2026 [61]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $949 million, down $184 million from 2024, primarily due to lower upstream realizations, partially offset by higher production volumes [8][9] - Cash flow from operations was nearly $1.5 billion, with $2.4 billion in cash on hand at the end of the quarter [4][10] - Capital expenditures totaled $473 million, which is $11 million higher than 2024, primarily due to project timing [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Upstream earnings were $664 million, down $67 million from the first quarter, primarily due to lower realizations [9] - Downstream earnings were $322 million, down $262 million from the first quarter, mainly reflecting lower margin capture [9] - Chemical business generated earnings of $21 million, down $10 million from the first quarter [10][22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Upstream production averaged 427,000 oil equivalent barrels per day, up 9,000 barrels per day versus the first quarter and up 23,000 barrels per day versus 2024 [13] - Kearl production set a second quarter record averaging 275,000 barrels per day gross, up 19,000 barrels per day versus the first quarter [14] - Petroleum product sales were 480,000 barrels per day, up 25,000 barrels per day versus 2025, enabled by the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion [21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on returning surplus cash to shareholders and has accelerated share repurchases through its NCIB program [7][25] - Major project milestones include the completion of the renewable diesel facility at Strathcona and the start of production in July [20][23] - The company is optimistic about future investments and government support for major projects in Canada [6] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate market volatility and maintain safe, reliable operations [5] - The outlook for the second half of the year is strong, with expectations for higher production volumes and further progress on unit cash cost reductions [16][24] - Management emphasized the importance of technology and operational efficiency in driving future growth [41][46] Other Important Information - The company plans to maintain a disciplined approach to capital allocation, prioritizing reliable and growing dividends [90] - The renewable diesel project aligns with the company's long-term strategy of advancing responsible energy solutions [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: Why was the decision made to accelerate the NCIB? - Management expressed confidence in completing the NCIB without leveraging the balance sheet, supported by strong cash flow and commodity prices [29][30] Question: What drives the investment case for Imperial despite strong year-to-date performance? - Management highlighted their strategy of responsibly increasing cash flow and delivering unmatched shareholder returns, supported by competitive advantages and technology [32][35] Question: Insights on the autonomous fleet technology? - Management noted the success of the autonomous haul system, which has reduced unit cash costs and is part of a broader technology strategy [40][42] Question: Status of the SAGD projects at Cold Lake? - Management discussed the competitive advantage of using solvent-assisted SAGD technology and the timeline for upcoming projects [100][105] Question: CapEx spending lower than expected, what drove that? - Management indicated that the lower spending was due to timing effects, with no change to the full-year guidance [67][69]