Hecla Mining Company (HL) Q1 2025 Earnings Call May 02, 2025 10:00 AM ET Company Participants Mike Parkin - VP - Strategy & IRRob Krcmarov - President and Chief Executive OfficerRussell Lawlar - SVP, CFOCarlos Aguiar - Senior VP & COOHeiko Ihle - MD & Equity ResearchDalton Baretto - Managing Director, Equity ResearchMichael Siperco - DirectorKurt Allen - Vice President of ExplorationAndrew Dusome - Equity Research Associate, Metals & MiningHenry Hearle - Equity Research AssociateJoseph Reagor - Managing Dir ...

Olympic Steel (ZEUS) Q1 2025 Earnings Call May 02, 2025 10:00 AM ET Company Participants Richard Manson - CFORichard Marabito - CEOAndrew Greiff - President & COOSamuel McKinney - AVP - Equity ResearchDave Storms - Director of Equity Research Conference Call Participants Christopher Sakai - Analyst Operator Greetings, and welcome to the Olympic Steel twenty twenty five First Quarter Financial Results Conference Call. At this time, all participants are in a listen only mode. A question and answer session wil ...

Brookfield Business Partners (BBU) Q1 2025 Earnings Call May 02, 2025 10:00 AM ET Company Participants Alan Fleming - MD & Investor RelationsAnuj Ranjan - Chief Executive OfficerAdrian Letts - Managing Partner of Private Equity & Head of Business OperationsJaspreet Dehl - Managing Partner of Private Equity & Chief Financial OfficerDevin Dodge - Director - Equity Research Conference Call Participants Gary Ho - Research Analyst - Financial ServicesJaeme Gloyn - Equity Research AnalystNik Priebe - Equity Resea ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported distributable earnings of $57.3 million or $0.28 per share, and $0.31 per share excluding one-time realized losses from the sale of two REO assets [19][12] - The return on equity (ROE) for the first quarter was approximately 10% [19] - The company anticipates distributable earnings guidance of $0.30 to $0.35 per quarter for 2025 [19][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The balance sheet lending platform originated $370 million in new bridge loans during the first quarter, with a target of $1.5 billion to $2 billion for 2025 [13][14] - The agency business had a slow first quarter, producing $6 million in originations and $731 million in loan sales, maintaining strong margins of 1.75% [25] - The investment portfolio grew to $11.5 billion at March 31, with an all-in yield of 7.85% [26] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced a significant backup in long-term rates, creating headwinds for originations [7][8] - The delinquency rate decreased by 20% to $654 million as of March 31, compared to $819 million at December 31 [22] - The average cost of debt decreased to approximately 6.82% at March 31 from 6.88% at December 31 [28] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on resolving REO assets and delinquencies, viewing 2025 as a transitional year [18][12] - The strategy includes leveraging efficiencies in the securitization market and maintaining strong banking relationships to drive future earnings [5][7] - The company aims to reposition underperforming assets to increase occupancy and net operating income (NOI) over the next 12 to 24 months [11][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the current economic environment is characterized by volatility and uncertainty, particularly regarding interest rates [8][9] - There is optimism about potential rate reductions, which could positively impact agency volumes and earnings [9][12] - The management believes that the company is well-positioned to grow earnings and dividends again in 2026 if current challenges are addressed [12][18] Other Important Information - The company has successfully modified $38 million of loans and brought $39 million of loans back to performing status [10] - The company expects REO assets to increase to between $400 million and $500 million, with plans to aggressively manage and reposition these assets [52][54] - The book value at the end of the quarter was reported at $11.98 [77] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the outlook for the Bridge portfolio growth in 2025? - Management expects net growth in the Bridge portfolio, targeting $1.5 billion to $2 billion in new business, with runoff projected between $1.5 billion to $3 billion depending on interest rates [32][33] Question: What were the primary weaknesses in the 2022 and 2023 vintages? - Management indicated that the multifamily sector experienced a long period of growth without corrections, leading to poor performance due to rising rates, economic vacancy issues, and increased competition from inexperienced entrants [39][41] Question: What is the current liquidity situation and expectations for NPLs and REO? - The company has $325 million in cash and liquidity, with expectations for REO to rise to between $400 million and $500 million, while NPLs are projected to decrease as assets are repositioned [48][54] Question: How much of the reported income was non-cash? - The company reported $15.3 million of PIK (payment-in-kind) interest during the quarter, which is a moving number based on loan modifications and performance [66] Question: What is the company's stance on stock buybacks? - Management emphasized the importance of liquidity and will evaluate stock buybacks based on market conditions and opportunities for capital growth [78]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Entergy reported strong financial performance in 2024, achieving adjusted earnings per share growth in the top half of their guidance range and a quarterly dividend per share increase of approximately 6% [15][16] - The company effectuated a two-for-one stock split, which reflects confidence in its financial health and future growth prospects [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Entergy experienced significant industrial customer growth, particularly from hyperscale data centers, with agreements signed in Mississippi and Louisiana [11][28] - The company brought more than 700 megawatts of solar resources online in 2024, enhancing its renewable energy portfolio [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Entergy's industrial sales growth guidance is projected at 12% to 13% compound annual growth through 2028, indicating strong demand in the industrial sector [30] - The company is actively engaged in discussions for additional data center projects, with a pipeline of 5 to 10 gigawatts not currently forecasted [28] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Entergy is focused on enhancing resilience and storm responses, with over $2 billion approved for resilience investments in Louisiana, Texas, and New Orleans [13][32] - The company aims to foster growth in its service territory while investing in cleaner, more reliable, and resilient energy solutions [17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to manage tariff impacts, estimating a manageable effect of approximately 1% on their $37 billion four-year capital plan [33] - The outlook remains positive, with expected double-digit industrial sales growth and an adjusted earnings per share compound annual growth rate above 8% through 2028 [16] Other Important Information - Entergy's commitment to corporate social responsibility resulted in an economic impact of over $153 million for customers and communities in 2024 [13] - The company played a significant role in community engagement, particularly through its partnership in the Super Bowl 59 host committee, contributing over $3.5 million in grants to local nonprofits [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: How much opportunity do data centers present to Entergy over the next few years? - Data centers represent a major growth opportunity, with agreements already in place and a project pipeline of 5 to 10 gigawatts [28] Question: Where do you see the most growth coming from over the next couple of years? - Growth is expected primarily from the industrial customer segment, particularly data centers and traditional industrial segments [30] Question: How is infrastructure hardening for hurricanes going? - Progress is being made with an accelerated resilience program and over $2 billion approved for upgrades [32] Question: What is the range of impact that you see tariffs having on Entergy's operations? - Tariff impacts are estimated to be manageable, primarily affecting the capital plan with an estimated impact of about 1% [33] Question: How is the use of artificial intelligence changing how Entergy operates? - Entergy is implementing AI solutions to improve customer service and field operations, enhancing responsiveness and reliability [36]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company ended the quarter with record assets under management (AUM) of $115.8 billion, up 5.5% from the prior quarter [4] - Net inflows totaled $3 billion, reflecting an annualized organic growth rate of 11% [4] - Revenue for the quarter was $108 million, down slightly from the previous quarter due to two fewer trading days and lower average fee capture, but 11.6% higher than the same period last year [6][7] - Adjusted net income for the quarter was $23 million, or $0.16 per share, impacted by seasonal compensation [7] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Inflows in the U.S. exceeded $1.8 billion, with significant contributions from fixed income and U.S. equity products [5] - The European market generated over $1.1 billion in inflows, primarily into the USITS ETF suite, including $770 million into the newly launched European Defense Fund [5][11] - The model portfolios business reached $4 billion in assets under administration (AUA), up 4% year-to-date, reflecting a nearly 20% annualized organic growth rate [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced positive market movement in commodities, which helped offset headwinds in the U.S. market [6] - The European Defense Fund has been a standout, bringing in $1.4 billion in net inflows year-to-date, making it one of the most successful launches in the company's history [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on adapting to evolving market dynamics and has introduced unique investment ideas, such as the geopolitical risk-aware model portfolios [12] - There is a strategic emphasis on deepening client relationships, with a target to grow the total number of clients using WisdomTree products by 4% this year [13] - The company is also expanding its digital assets offerings, with plans to enable on-chain transfers and broaden functionality in the coming months [14][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the company is well-positioned in a more volatile market, with a balanced AUM and strong client momentum [9][10] - The future outlook is positive, with expectations for continued organic growth and a focus on efficiency improvements through AI deployment [23][24] Other Important Information - The company has positioned itself as a leader in tokenized products, with over $100 million in inflows year-to-date [21] - The management highlighted the diversification of AUM across geographies, asset classes, and client types as a significant strength [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Opportunity for WisdomTree Prime - Management discussed the importance of on and off ramps for interacting with stable coins and other crypto assets, with a measured rollout planned for the summer and expanded marketing in September [26][27] Question: AI Deployment - Management explained that AI is being implemented across various functions to enhance customer experience, growth, and decision-making [31][33] Question: Update on Crypto Funds - The company has focused on Bitcoin in the U.S. and launched a broad 20-coin basket product in Europe, with over $100 million in inflows [38][39]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company's net operating income (NOI) for the first quarter was $26 million, which is $500,000 higher than the previous quarter, driven by higher revenue and lower operating expenses [15] - Core funds from operations (FFO) were reported at $12.3 million or $0.30 per share, an increase of $600,000 from the previous quarter [15] - Adjusted funds from operations (AFFO) were $6.5 million or $0.16 per share, with no significant impacts from tenant improvements or leasing commissions [16] - Same store cash NOI increased by 4.4% or $1.1 million compared to the first quarter of 2024 [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company completed 144,000 square feet of new and renewal leasing in the first quarter, with the largest lease being a 34,000 square foot new lease at the Papago Tech property in Phoenix [11] - The Greenwood Boulevard property in Orlando was fully leased to a single tenant, with a new 66,000 square foot tenant set to take occupancy later this year [12] - The overall portfolio occupancy ended the quarter at 84.9%, slightly lower than the previous quarter, with expectations of a decrease in the second quarter due to tenant downsizing [17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Nationally, office leasing volume was 15% higher than a year ago, with JLL estimating that it has returned to approximately 89% of pre-pandemic levels [10] - Higher quality office spaces in Sunbelt markets continue to outperform, with significant leasing activity noted in Phoenix [10][41] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on the redevelopment of its City Center property in downtown St. Petersburg, Florida, into a luxury residential condominium and mixed-use tower [5] - An agreement was made with Property Markets Group to lead the development, with expectations of significant long-term value creation [7] - The company is strategically investing in Sunbelt markets, where it sees the most value, while avoiding capital investments in underperforming markets like Portland [40] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the overall office real estate fundamentals and the positive trends in leasing activity [10] - The company anticipates occupancy will dip in the short term but expects to recover by year-end as signed leases take occupancy [31] - Management is confident in achieving year-end occupancy within the original guidance range of 85% to 87% [18] Other Important Information - Total debt as of March 31 was $646 million, with a net debt to EBITDA ratio of 6.7 times [18] - The company has approximately $42 million undrawn on its credit facility, which matures in November 2025 [19] - Two property debt maturities are scheduled for 2025, with ongoing discussions for extensions [21] Q&A Session Summary Question: How did the new development project come about? - The project was initiated two years ago, recognizing the strong market in Downtown St. Petersburg, leading to a well-structured agreement with PMG [23][24] Question: What is the timing for the project? - Presales are expected to commence soon, with a projected timeline of about one year for presales and three years for construction, totaling approximately four years for the full project [26] Question: Will there be any disruption to existing tenants during the redevelopment? - Alternative parking arrangements are being made for tenants, and they have been kept informed about the changes [27] Question: What is the pace of occupancy expected this year? - The company has 143,000 square feet of leases that have yet to take occupancy, which will contribute to occupancy levels in the coming quarters [30] Question: Will there be any vacancy at Greenwood Boulevard? - There will be a temporary dip in occupancy due to tenant downsizing, but it is expected to return to 100% occupancy before the end of the year [36] Question: How are the top Sunbelt markets performing, particularly Phoenix? - The company is seeing strong performance in Phoenix, with significant leasing activity contributing to overall positive cash spreads [40][41]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Normalized FFO per share for Q1 2025 was $0.39, aligning with expectations and marking a strong start to the year [22] - Same store cash NOI growth was 2.3%, impacted by higher operating expenses and weather volatility, with expectations for acceleration in growth for the remainder of the year [22][23] - Net debt to adjusted EBITDA remained unchanged at 6.4 times, with expectations to decrease to a range of 6 to 6.25 times as the year progresses [24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Same store occupancy at the end of Q1 was 89.3%, with expectations for sequential growth throughout 2025 [11] - The company commenced nearly 1,500,000 square feet of new and renewal leases during the quarter, with a solid signed non-occupied pipeline of over 630,000 square feet [17][20] - Tenant retention improved by over 300 basis points to almost 85%, contributing to the slight uptick in occupancy [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The demand for outpatient medical space remains robust, with health systems experiencing improving revenue and margin trends, driving further growth and space needs [20] - The company’s on-campus portfolio received an A+ score in a recent industry research piece, indicating a resilient outpatient portfolio compared to peers [20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The new CEO emphasized a focus on leasing, portfolio optimization, balance sheet improvement, organizational efficiency, and financial discipline as initial strategic priorities [11][14] - The company plans to exit markets with limited scale and focus on selling assets rather than contributing them to joint ventures [13][31] - The dividend will be an output of the strategic plan, with discussions ongoing at the Board level regarding its future [16][38] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the strong fundamentals of outpatient medical real estate, with muted new supply and steadily increasing demand [7] - The company anticipates occupancy growth throughout 2025, with a target of 75 to 125 basis points of absorption by year-end [21] - Management is cautious about potential federal healthcare budget cuts but noted that outpatient medical assets may benefit indirectly from such changes [45] Other Important Information - The company maintained its dividend at $0.31 per share for the quarter, with discussions ongoing regarding its future based on earnings clarity [16] - The company sold four buildings for $28 million in Q1, with plans for further dispositions as part of its strategy [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: Did the areas of focus listed by the new CEO represent a priority order? - The CEO indicated that while not in perfect order of priority, portfolio optimization and deleveraging are immediate focuses, while leasing improvements may take two to three years [30] Question: How does the company view the joint venture model? - The CEO expressed a preference for maintaining existing joint ventures but emphasized the need to sell assets rather than contribute more to these ventures [31] Question: Is the current guidance for 2025 confirmed? - The CEO reaffirmed the guidance after reviewing the 2025 forecast, indicating comfort with the numbers presented [35] Question: How will dispositions impact earnings and dividend coverage? - The CEO acknowledged that while there may be a negative impact from asset sales, efforts are being made to offset dilution through efficiencies and leasing upside [104][105] Question: What is the outlook for rent collection from tenants? - The CFO reported full rent collection from a key tenant for February, March, and April, indicating stability despite ongoing bankruptcy processes [62] Question: How does the company plan to utilize retained cash flow? - The CEO highlighted redevelopment opportunities as a priority for retained cash flow, aiming for higher returns on reinvested capital [115]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a record adjusted EPS of $2.72, up 13% from the prior year [8] - Organic growth accelerated to 9% from 6% in the prior quarter, with segment margins reaching 23.9% [8][13] - Total company orders increased by 3% compared to the prior quarter, resulting in a book-to-bill ratio of 1.1 [8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - **Electrical Americas**: Organic sales growth accelerated to 13%, with an operating margin of 30%, up 80 basis points year-over-year [14] - **Electrical Global**: Organic growth increased from 5.5% to 9%, with a 2% FX headwind impacting results [16] - **Aerospace**: Organic growth reached 13%, with a strong operating margin of 23.1% [19] - **Vehicle Segment**: Revenue declined by 15%, including an 11% organic decline, but maintained a margin of 15.5% [20] - **eMobility**: Revenue increased by 2%, with a 3% organic growth [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. data center construction backlog increased to nine years based on 2024 build rates, up from seven years [11] - Strong activity was noted in EMEA and APAC regions, with double-digit organic growth reported [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on leveraging megatrends in its end markets to drive growth, particularly in data centers and utilities [10][25] - The acquisition of Fiberbond is seen as a strategic move to enhance capabilities in the data center market [10][11] - The company is committed to maintaining a localized sourcing and manufacturing strategy to mitigate tariff impacts [22][23] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term growth prospects despite current economic uncertainties, raising the organic growth outlook for 2025 to a range of 7.5% to 9.5% [28][30] - The company reaffirmed its adjusted EPS guidance for 2025, projecting an 11% growth over the prior year [28] Other Important Information - The company has implemented measures to control costs and limit discretionary spending in response to dynamic market conditions [23] - Management highlighted the importance of strong relationships with customers and suppliers to minimize disruptions [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: Data center performance and expectations - Management noted strong double-digit growth in the data center market and expressed optimism for continued high levels of orders and negotiation activity [35][37] Question: Competitive positioning in the U.S. market - The company emphasized its strong local presence and ongoing investments to expand capacity, which positions it favorably against competitors [39][41] Question: Electrical Americas order outlook - Management expects strong order performance in Electrical Americas, supported by a robust backlog and negotiation pipeline [48][50] Question: Implications of data center backlog increase - The increase in backlog is expected to drive demand for modular solutions and enhance the company's competitive position [99][102] Question: Tariff impact on margins - Management discussed the dynamic nature of tariffs and the company's strategy to mitigate cost pressures through pricing and operational efficiencies [72][74] Question: Opportunities in data center orders - Management indicated that the transition to higher power density in data centers will benefit the company's offerings and drive growth [120][122]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales for Q1 2025 were $417 million, a decrease of 2.4% compared to $427 million in the same period last year, primarily due to unfavorable foreign exchange and lower volumes [15][24] - Adjusted EBITDA was $82 million, or 19.6%, compared to $80 million, or 18.8% in the prior period, reflecting improved operational efficiency [16][25] - Adjusted earnings per share increased to $0.63 from $0.60 last year, while adjusted free cash flow improved to $20 million from an outflow of $13 million in the prior year [26] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company continues to focus on aftermarket sales, which account for over 80% of revenue, demonstrating resilience despite market challenges [9] - The first fit market is expected to decline, with heavy-duty market projections down 5% to 15% and medium-duty down 10% to 20% [21][22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The overall market outlook remains uncertain, with expectations for total company revenue in 2025 to be flat to up 4% compared to the prior year, with global sales projected between $1.67 billion and $1.735 billion [22] - The impact of tariffs is estimated to contribute approximately 1.5% to pricing, with additional pricing actions expected to offset input costs [19][20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is executing a four-pillar growth strategy focused on growing share in first fit, accelerating aftermarket growth, transforming the supply chain, and expanding into industrial filtration through acquisitions [10][12][14] - The operational separation from Cummins is progressing, with expectations to complete remaining activities in 2025 [5] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating the evolving tariff environment, although the overall impact on end markets remains unclear [16][17] - The company anticipates a flat year-over-year performance in aftermarket revenue, with pricing expected to provide a 3.2% increase [19][20] Other Important Information - The company has repurchased $10 million of stock in Q1 2025, totaling $30 million since the program's announcement, with $120 million remaining under board authorization [5] - The effective tax rate for Q1 2025 was 21.3%, a decrease from 22% in the previous year, driven by a change in the mix of earnings among tax jurisdictions [27] Q&A Session Summary Question: Potential manufacturing transitions due to tariffs - Management indicated that while they are monitoring the tariff situation closely, no long-term manufacturing changes are currently planned [33][34] Question: M&A opportunities in the industrial filtration market - Management acknowledged that while the market is challenging, they remain focused on evaluating M&A targets as part of their growth strategy [36] Question: Revenue outlook amidst market changes - Management confirmed that the revenue outlook remains near the midpoint of their guidance, despite softening market conditions [41][42] Question: Pricing expectations for the year - Management expects pricing to ramp up throughout the year, with a gradual increase leading to the anticipated 3.2% for the full year [48] Question: Impact of potential regulatory changes on emissions - Management is closely monitoring EPA reviews and believes they are well-positioned to support customers regardless of regulatory outcomes [70][71]