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GE Vernova Inc.(GEV) - 2025 FY - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-05-14 13:30
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In 2024, the company booked $44 billion in orders and generated $35 billion in revenue, with EBITDA margin expansion across all segments and over $1 billion improvement in free cash flow [13] - The backlog grew to $119 billion, with equipment backlog increasing over 50% to $43 billion, adding more than $6 billion of margin through better pricing and disciplined underwriting [13] - The cash balance nearly doubled to over $8 billion since the spin-off, driven by strong free cash flow generation and capitalizing on value creation opportunities [13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is focused on electrifying and decarbonizing the world, with a strong foundation built in 2024 and continued progress in early 2025 [12] - The energy transition is creating higher demand for the company's equipment and services, particularly in reliable baseload power, grid modernization, and decarbonization [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is in the early days of an investment super cycle in the electric power sector, driven by manufacturing growth, industrial electrification, EVs, and emerging data center needs [12] - Market dynamics continue to drive strong demand, leading to multi-decade growth opportunities for the company [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company has framed a disciplined capital allocation strategy, including a $6 billion buyback authorization and an initial dividend of $0.25 per share [14] - The company aims to return at least one-third of cash generation to stockholders while investing in R&D and CapEx to position itself for long-term leadership in the energy transition [24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges the complexity of the current environment, including tariffs and inflation, but sees these as opportunities to differentiate the company as a strong industrial player [13][26] - The company is well-positioned to support U.S. energy strategy and create jobs, with a $600 million investment plan that will generate 1,500 new jobs in the U.S. [29] Other Important Information - The company emphasizes safety as a core value, with ongoing improvements in safety culture and practices [11] - The board of directors includes members with extensive experience in the energy sector, including nuclear power, which is critical for the company's strategic direction [32] Q&A Session Summary Question: When will GE Vernova raise the dividend? - The company declared an initial $0.25 per share quarterly dividend and expects to increase it as EBITDA and free cash flow grow [23][24] Question: How is the company responding to recently imposed tariffs? - The company estimates a $300 to $400 million impact from tariffs and inflation but is taking steps to mitigate these costs through pricing actions and disciplined supply chain management [25][26] Question: How does the current administration's policies affect stockholders? - The company is aligned with the administration's focus on energy security and has announced a $600 million investment to support U.S. competitiveness and innovation [28][29] Question: Why are there no female board candidates up for election this year? - The board has nine members, three of whom are women, and the current election is for only three nominees due to the classified board structure [30][31] Question: What experience do the nominees have with nuclear power? - Several board members have extensive experience in nuclear power, including leadership roles in major electrical utility companies [32]
Kornit Digital(KRNT) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-05-14 13:30
Kornit Digital (KRNT) Q1 2025 Earnings Call May 14, 2025 08:30 AM ET Speaker0 Greetings, and welcome to Kornit Digital's First Quarter twenty twenty five Earnings Conference Call. As a reminder, this call is being recorded. I would now like to turn the conference over to our host, Mr. Jared Maeman, Investor Relations for Kornit Digital. Mr. Maeman, you may begin. Speaker1 Thank you, operator. Good day, everyone, and welcome to Kornit Digital's first quarter twenty twenty five earnings conference call. Joini ...
ARS Pharmaceuticals(SPRY) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-05-14 13:30
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q1 2025, total revenue was $8 million, with $7.8 million from U.S. net product revenue for Nefi and $200,000 from collaboration revenue [19][20] - The company reported a net loss of $33.9 million or $0.35 per share for the first quarter [23] - Cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments stood at $275.7 million as of March 31, 2025, indicating a runway of at least three years [24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Nefi generated $7.8 million in U.S. net product revenue in Q1 2025, reflecting strong demand among healthcare providers and patients [5][19] - The company has expanded commercial insurance coverage from 27% to 57% during the year, with ongoing discussions for further coverage [6][14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. market potential for Nefi is estimated at $3 billion, with 6.5 million patients prescribed epinephrine and an additional 13.5 million diagnosed patients without prescriptions [5] - The company aims to achieve 80% commercial lives coverage by Q3 2025, with current coverage at 57% without prior authorization [45][68] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on deepening physician engagement, expanding access, and establishing a global commercial footprint for Nefi [11] - A comprehensive direct-to-consumer campaign titled "Hello Nefi, Goodbye Needles" is set to launch, aimed at raising awareness and driving adoption [16][17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the momentum of Nefi, citing strong early revenue and positive physician testimonials [25] - The company anticipates an inflection point in sales during Q3 2025, particularly with the launch of the one-milligram dose and the DTC campaign [62] Other Important Information - The company plans to invest $40 million to $50 million in the DTC campaign for the remainder of 2025, with expected benefits starting in Q3 [21][22] - The co-promotion agreement with ALK will allow the company to retain full control over U.S. commercialization while benefiting from ALK's sales force [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: How much of the Q1 sales figure is attributed to inventory? - Management indicated that Q1 numbers were minimally influenced by inventory, with steady inventories at that point [28][29] Question: What would the gross to net discount look like in Q1? - The gross to net discount was around 60% for Q1, expected to decrease to closer to 50% as payer coverage improves [30][31] Question: Can you confirm that there are no prior auth requirements for access to Nefi for 57% of commercial lives? - Management confirmed that 57% have coverage without prior authorization, while about 90% have coverage when including those requiring prior authorization [35][36] Question: What is the strength of the Nefi experience program? - The Nefi experience program has enrolled over 2,500 physicians, with positive feedback and high prescription rates among participants [41][42] Question: How is the company tracking towards the goal of 80% commercial lives by Q3? - Management noted ongoing negotiations with several payers, with a high approval rate for prior authorizations, indicating positive progress towards the goal [44][46] Question: What is the current market share and where does the company hope to be by the end of the year? - The company currently holds about 1.3% market share overall, with higher shares among targeted physicians, and expects to see growth with upcoming catalysts [70][72]
Waldencast plc(WALD) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-05-14 13:30
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net revenue of $65.4 million, a decline of 4.1% year-over-year [10] - Adjusted gross profit margin remained strong at 76.4%, an increase of 10 basis points year-over-year [10] - Adjusted EBITDA was $4.4 million, reflecting a margin of 6.7% [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Milk Makeup experienced a revenue decline of 15.1%, but domestic performance was solid, driven by the successful launch of Hydro Grip Gel Skin Tint [11][12] - Obagi Medical achieved net revenue of $36.2 million, increasing 7.1% from the previous year, despite out-of-stock issues [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted strong growth in attractive channels, including professional, specialty, retail, and online, with expectations for continued momentum [9] - Milk Makeup's U.S. retail sales showed high single-digit growth, particularly due to the launch at Ulta [12][16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on strengthening its supply chain and achieving cost efficiency while enhancing flexibility to meet demand [7][19] - The strategic growth initiatives include expanding Milk Makeup and Obagi Medical brands, driving innovation, and increasing community engagement [5][6] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about future growth, citing key drivers such as breakthrough innovation, digital channel expansion, and improved product availability [19][20] - The company remains cautious about the macroeconomic environment, anticipating some pressure from softer consumer sentiment and spending [21] Other Important Information - The company has a cash position of $10.8 million and an additional $22.5 million available on its revolving credit facility [23] - Net debt increased to $172.1 million, primarily due to refinancing costs [24] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you expand on the supply chain restructuring for Obagi? - Management indicated that the supply chain needs to be more responsive and flexible, with ongoing efforts to streamline operations [42][44] Question: What is driving the slowdown in the physician channel? - Management clarified that the slowdown is not due to fewer visits but rather a lack of tailwinds from the previous year's Amazon business conversion [47][49] Question: Can you provide insights on sell-through trends for Obagi and Milk? - Management noted a significant difference between sell-in and sell-through for Milk, with high single-digit retail sales growth, while Obagi's model is based on sell-through [52][54] Question: What is the expected impact of tariffs on costs? - Management stated that even with potential tariff increases, the impact is manageable due to low exposure to China, with possible low to mid-single-digit price increases being evaluated [64][66] Question: How is SG&A expected to change with sales growth? - Management expects SG&A to grow in absolute terms but with substantial operational leverage, keeping it flattish as a percentage of sales [68][70] Question: What are the marketing investment strategies moving forward? - Management plans to increase investments in top-of-funnel advertising for Milk and expand consumer outreach for Obagi, focusing on long-term competitive advantage [74][75]
Alico(ALCO) - 2025 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-05-14 13:30
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for the second fiscal quarter decreased by 1% to $18 million compared to $18.1 million for the prior year period [13] - For the six months ended March 31, 2025, revenue decreased by 9% to $34.9 million compared to $32.1 million for the prior year period [13] - The company reported a net loss attributable to common shareholders of $111.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to a loss of $15.8 million for the same period in the prior year [17] - EBITDA for the three months ended March 31, 2025, was a loss of $14.7 million compared to a loss of $16.5 million for the same period in the prior year [17] - Adjusted EBITDA for the three months ended March 31, 2025, was a gain of $12.7 million compared to a loss of $16.5 million for the same period in the prior year [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Alico harvested approximately 4.7 million and 8.7 million pound solids of fruit for the three and six months ended March 31, 2025, respectively, compared to 5.8 million and 10.4 million pound solids in the same periods of the prior fiscal year [14] - Land management and other operations revenue increased by 10,774% for the three and six months ended March 31, 2025, primarily due to increased rock and sand royalty income and sod sales [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company completed the sale of 2,100 acres of land in the second quarter of 2025, contributing to other income of $15.3 million for that quarter [16] - The company raised its outlook for land sales to potentially exceed $50 million for the fiscal year, a 150% increase from prior guidance [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is transitioning to a diversified land company, having completed its major capital investment in citrus operations [5] - Alico is actively engaged with agricultural operators to diversify its remaining agricultural activities, including sod production and seasonal crop leases [7] - The company is pursuing development opportunities for its properties, including the Corkscrew Grove Villages project, which aims to create mixed-use master plan communities [8][9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the strategic transformation, projecting a cash balance of approximately $25 million and net debt of about $60 million by the end of the fiscal year [19] - The company expects to generate approximately $20 million in adjusted EBITDA for fiscal year 2025, supported by land sales and cash generated from citrus harvests [20] Other Important Information - The company amended its credit agreement to adjust financial covenants and reduce insurance coverage requirements, resulting in cost savings [12] - A $50 million share repurchase program was announced as part of the capital allocation strategy [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide additional details on the $15.8 million from land sales in the quarter? - The $15.8 million was from the sale of 2,100 acres located in Henry County [25][26] Question: Are there ongoing discussions for additional land sales to achieve the $50 million target? - The company is in discussions for additional land sales, but the timing is uncertain due to the diligence process [28] Question: What milestones can be expected for the Corkscrew project before potential entitlement approvals? - The entitlement approvals themselves will serve as milestones, with individual meetings and revisions expected throughout the process [29]
ADC Therapeutics(ADCT) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-05-14 13:30
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenues for Q1 2025 were $23 million, including net product revenues of $17.4 million, consistent with Q1 2024 and an increase from $16.4 million in Q4 2024 [5][17] - Net loss for Q1 2025 was $38.6 million, an improvement from a net loss of $46.6 million in Q1 2024, attributed to higher license revenues and lower expenses [18] - Cash and cash equivalents as of March 31, 2025, were $194.7 million, down from $250.9 million at December 31, 2024, primarily due to net loss from operations [18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported $5.6 million in milestone and royalty payments included in total revenue for the quarter [6] - The LOTUS-seven study showed an overall response rate of 95.5% and a complete response rate of 90.9% in 22 efficacy evaluable patients [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is focusing on maintaining its position as a treatment option for third-line plus DLBCL patients, with promising data from the LOTUS-seven study [5][10] - The competitive landscape is highlighted by the potential of ZYNLATA plus glufitamab to be a best-in-class combination in a highly competitive market [6][11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to expand the use of ZYNLATA into earlier lines of therapy in DLBCL and indolent lymphomas, believing in the potential for significant revenue growth [10][22] - The strategy includes pursuing regulatory discussions and compendia strategies based on the data from ongoing trials [8][11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the upcoming catalysts and the company's cash runway expected to fund operations into the second half of 2026 [10][21] - The management is optimistic about the promising data from ongoing trials and the potential to change treatment paradigms for patients with aggressive lymphoma [15][22] Other Important Information - The LOTUS-five trial is on track to reach the pre-specified number of progression-free survival events by the end of 2025, with top-line data expected thereafter [8][20] - The company is engaged in discussions for potential research collaborations to advance its programs [9][20] Q&A Session Summary Question: Follow-up time for patients and CR conversion times - Management indicated that follow-up assessments are ongoing, with high complete response rates being a strong biomarker for durability [27][28] Question: Competitive strategy and regulatory engagement - The company plans to engage with regulatory authorities once sufficient data from approximately 100 patients is available [30] Question: Expected patient numbers at upcoming conferences - Management confirmed that more patients than the 22 already discussed will be presented at the EHA and ICML conferences, but exact numbers cannot be disclosed [34] Question: Timing for LOTUS-five data readout - The company expects to reach the pre-specified number of PFS events this year, with data readout potentially at the end of this year or early next year [42] Question: Discontinuation of the ADCT-602 program - The discontinuation of the ADCT-602 program has minimal capital implications, allowing focus on advancing other research programs [50][51]
Similarweb(SMWB) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-05-14 13:30
Similarweb (SMWB) Q1 2025 Earnings Call May 14, 2025 08:30 AM ET Speaker0 Greetings and welcome to the SimilarWeb Q1 Fiscal twenty twenty five Earnings Call. At this time, all participants are in a listen only mode. A question and answer session will follow the formal presentation. As a reminder, this conference is being recorded. It is now my pleasure to introduce your host, Rami Myerson, Vice President, Investor Relations. Thank you. You may begin. Speaker1 Thank you, operator. Welcome everyone to our fir ...
Reeds, Inc.(REED) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-05-14 13:30
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales for Q1 2025 increased by 4.5% to $10 million compared to $9.6 million in the same quarter last year, driven by higher volumes with recurring national customers [18] - Profit for Q1 2025 remained flat at $3.4 million compared to the previous year [19] - Gross margin decreased to 33.9% from 35.6% year-over-year, primarily due to higher cost of goods sold [19] - Operating loss for Q1 2025 was $1.7 million, compared to a loss of $700,000 in Q1 2024 [20] - Cash used in operating activities increased to $5.4 million from $2.4 million year-over-year, driven by higher inventory purchases [21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company launched a new multifunctional soda line, which includes flavors like berry bubbly and strawberry vanilla, and secured national distribution in Sprouts Farmers Market [8][9] - Expanded presence at Albertsons Safeway for Reed's Ginger Ale, adding over 1,100 new points of distribution [10] - Successfully launched a national offshoot program with Flying Cauldron at Albertsons, exceeding internal projections [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Distribution gains were noted in three states at Trader Joe's for classic new alcohol products, reflecting growing demand across core functional and alcohol portfolios [12] - The company executed national display programs across core product lines at Sprouts Farmers Market, strengthening visibility [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on sustainable growth and profitability, with a commitment to delivering premium, better-for-you beverages [15] - A strategic initiative includes transitioning from glass bottles to cans, enhancing cost structure and scalability [13] - The company is taking a measured approach to innovation, prioritizing its heritage and brand credibility [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about operational improvements and the alignment across the team, laying groundwork for profitable growth [22] - The company expects some modest gross margin pressure in Q2 due to seasonal promotion activity and higher trade spend [14] - Management is focused on improving cash flow performance in the second half of 2025 [26] Other Important Information - The company appointed Rude Baker to the board of directors, bringing extensive experience in the beverage industry [7] - The company is actively evaluating alternative suppliers and sourcing strategies to mitigate potential disruptions from global trade dynamics [13] Q&A Session Summary Question: Operating expenses were higher than expected; what should be expected going forward? - The increase in SG&A is attributed to upfront investments in personnel and marketing to support strategic initiatives [26] Question: Will gross margins be pressured in Q2? - There may be seasonal compression in gross margins due to trade discounts and additional investment in the functional beverage launch [28] Question: Is there any revenue guidance for the year? - The company has not provided specific revenue guidance but is focused on growth and operating efficiency [33]
Kamada .(KMDA) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-05-14 13:30
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenues for Q1 2025 were $44 million, representing a 17% increase year over year from $37.7 million in Q1 2024 [4][11] - Adjusted EBITDA for Q1 2025 was $11.6 million, a 54% increase compared to $7.5 million in Q1 2024 [4][13] - Net income for Q1 2025 was $4 million, or $0.07 per share, up 67% from $2.4 million, or $0.04 per share, in Q1 2024 [13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Growth was primarily driven by increased sales of Glacia and Kamrab in ex-U.S. markets, as well as Varezig sales and Glacier royalties income [5][11] - Gross profit for Q1 2025 was $20.7 million with a gross margin of 47%, compared to $16.7 million and 44% in Q1 2024 [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company expects to launch two additional biosimilars later in 2025, following the first biosimilar product launch in Israel, which is projected to generate approximately $2 million in revenue this year [8] - The plasma collection operation expanded with a new center in San Antonio, Texas, expected to contribute annual revenues of $8 million to $10 million [9][10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on a four-pillar growth strategy: organic commercial growth, business development and M&A, plasma collection operations, and advancement of the inhaled Alpha-one program [6][39] - A comprehensive post-marketing research program for Cytogam was initiated, consisting of 10 studies aimed at advancing CMV disease management [6][7] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about continued profitable growth throughout 2025, reiterating annual revenue guidance of $178 million to $182 million and adjusted EBITDA guidance of $38 million to $42 million [5][6] - The company is monitoring the impact of tariffs and NIH spending cuts but does not anticipate a direct impact on its business [21][31] Other Important Information - The company is currently at around 55% enrollment for the pivotal Phase III INNO2VATE clinical trial for inhaled alpha-one antitrypsin therapy [26] - The tax rate reported for the quarter was 40%, compared to 3% a year ago, with expectations of fluctuations in tax expenses through 2025 [33][34] Q&A Session Summary Question: Growth contributors and Cytogam investment - Management clarified that Cytogam did not significantly contribute to growth this quarter, with the increase coming from other products [15][18] Question: Updates on CMV guidelines - Management indicated that new clinical data from ongoing studies could lead to updates in CMV management guidelines [19][20] Question: Impact of tariffs on global business - Management stated that there should be no direct impact on sales from tariffs, but they will continue to monitor the situation [21][24] Question: Timing of Cytogam post-marketing study completion - The comprehensive program is expected to span around four years, with some results available as early as late 2025 [30] Question: Impact of NIH spending cuts - Management does not anticipate any impact from NIH spending cuts on the business [31] Question: Tax rate changes - The tax rate change was due to shifts between deferred tax assets and liabilities, with expectations of a clearer effective tax rate by the end of 2025 [33][34] Question: Annual guidance implications from strong Q1 - Management will monitor progress in Q2 and may update guidance if strong performance continues [37]
Smith Douglas Homes(SDHC) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-05-14 13:30
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Smith Douglas Homes reported pretax income of $19.6 million and net earnings of $0.30 per share for the first quarter of 2025, with home closing revenue reaching $225 million, a 19% increase from the same quarter in 2024 [4][11] - Gross margin for the quarter was 23.8%, down from 26.1% in the prior year, reflecting higher average lock costs and increased incentives [12][13] - Net income for the quarter was $18.7 million, compared to $20.5 million in the prior year, with adjusted net income at $14.7 million versus $16.1 million [13][14] - The company ended the quarter with $12.7 million in cash and $40 million outstanding on its unsecured revolver, with a debt to book capitalization ratio of 9.5% [14][15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Home closings increased to 671 homes, up 19% from 566 closings in the same quarter last year [11] - The average sales price was approximately $335,000, slightly up year over year due to shifts in geographic and product mix [11] - Backlog at the end of the quarter was 791 homes with an average sales price of $341,000, reflecting a decrease from 1,100 homes year over year [15][16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Monthly sales per community improved from 2.4 in January to 3.3 in February and 3.8 in March, but dipped back to approximately three sales per community in April [16][17] - The company launched a $10 million forward commitment program offering a 4.99% mortgage rate buy down in select communities to boost conversion rates [17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on controlling land through option agreements rather than outright ownership, with less than 5% of unstarted controlled lots owned on the balance sheet [6] - Smith Douglas aims to improve build times and limit spec inventory, believing that pre-selling homes enhances buyer attachment and reduces cancellation rates [9] - The company remains committed to long-term goals of growing market share and achieving better economies of scale while maintaining a strong balance sheet [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that while there is uncertainty in the economy and industry, the company is built to weather fluctuations and remains focused on executing controllable factors [9][19] - The outlook for the second quarter includes expectations to close between 620 and 650 homes, with gross margin projected between 22.75% and 23.25% [18] - Management acknowledged risks related to maintaining sales pace, managing cost pressures, and broader macroeconomic factors impacting demand [19] Other Important Information - The company is in the final stages of amending its credit facility to increase the total facility size by $75 million to $325 million and extend the maturity [15] - The mortgage joint venture continues to improve, with a capture rate of 56% for the mortgage partner [58] Q&A Session Summary Question: How would you characterize the spring selling season overall and expectations for that? - Management indicated that demand has been consistent across their footprint, with efforts focused on solving for payments to reach affordability [22][23] Question: Any color on the land environment and ability to find new lots? - Management noted that while land inflation has continued, they are starting to see some moderation in land prices, indicating a potential shift to a buyer's market [24][25][26] Question: Outlook beyond Q2 and guidance for the full year? - Management expressed uncertainty due to macroeconomic conditions but indicated a target of 6,100 closings for the year, contingent on market conditions [32][34][45] Question: Update on Houston expansion and cycle time improvements? - Management reported significant improvements in cycle times in Houston, aiming for a 70-day schedule by the end of the year [38] Question: Demand and pricing power observed in May? - Management stated that demand remains consistent with April, but affordability continues to be a challenge [42] Question: Comments on the recent news regarding Landsea? - Management refrained from commenting on other companies' transactions but noted that it reflects good support for the home building space [48] Question: Second quarter gross margin guidance and backlog conversion? - Management indicated that the decline in gross margin is primarily due to higher incentives, but they see potential for improving backlog conversion rates [50][52] Question: Update on the mortgage joint venture? - Management confirmed that the mortgage joint venture is performing well, with consistent messaging on incentives and improving capture rates [56][58] Question: Are you seeing a pullback in starts from competition? - Management noted no interruption in their starts, while competitors are experiencing some slowing in starts [60][61]