Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In 2024, the company delivered over 12,000 vehicles, reflecting a year-on-year increase of over 70% [7] - For Q4, over 4,500 vehicles were delivered, representing a 20% year-on-year increase [8] - Revenue for Q4 narrowed by 12% year-on-year to $272 million, while full-year revenue increased by 36% year-on-year to $924 million [9] - The cost of revenues increased to $895 million for the full year and $301 million for Q4, resulting in a gross profit margin of 3% for the full year and negative 11% for Q4 [13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Lifestyle vehicles increased by 57% year-on-year, accounting for 57% of total deliveries [10] - The intelligent driving business saw significant accounting adjustments due to a change in booking policy, impacting revenue recognition [104] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Europe, the home of the Lotus brand, saw an annual increase of approximately 180%, contributing nearly 40% of total deliveries [11] - China contributed one-quarter of total deliveries, while North America surged by 15%, making up 21% of total deliveries [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims for internationalization, having entered over 10 new countries in the GCC region, Asia, and Oceania [23] - A focus on sustainable materials and redefining luxury was highlighted with the launch of the concept car Zero One [24][25] - The company plans to enhance its product lineup with new models and upgrades, including a new electric car and a hyper-hybrid model [58][60] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the impact of global trade uncertainties and economic slowdown but emphasized remarkable growth in vehicle deliveries [9] - The company expects improved gross margins in 2025 due to better product cost structures and the launch of new models [92][107] - The U.S. market remains a priority, with plans to address tariff impacts and explore manufacturing solutions [145][147] Other Important Information - The company has received a put option notice from Geely to acquire 51% of Lotus UK, which is expected to be a non-cash transaction [46][50] - The management team has undergone changes, with a new CFO and sales manager for the Chinese market, both bringing extensive experience in luxury car sales [118][120] Q&A Session Summary Question: Plans for a lightweight Amira with enhanced features - Management acknowledged the suggestion and noted that the U.S. market is crucial for Amira, with nearly 50% of sales coming from there [67][68] Question: Contribution of ADAS revenue and guidance - The intelligent driving business is expected to align with industry benchmarks, with a margin of about 30% [110] Question: Factors behind the decline in gross profit in Q4 - The decline was attributed to stock clearing and accounting adjustments in the intelligent driving business [103][104] Question: Cash burn rate and financing expectations - The company is addressing cash gaps through operations and financing, with ongoing discussions with investors [115] Question: U.S. market strategy amid geopolitical tensions - Management emphasized the importance of the U.S. market and plans to explore solutions for lifestyle vehicle exports [145][146]

Zions Bancorporation, National Association (NASDAQ:ZION) Q1 2025 Earnings Conference Call April 21, 2025 5:30 PM ET Company Participants Shannon Drage - Senior Director of Investor Relations Harris Simmons - Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Ryan Richards - Chief Financial Officer Scott McLean - President and Chief Operating Officer Derek Steward - Chief Credit Officer Conference Call Participants Manan Gosalia - Morgan Stanley John Pancari - Evercore ISI Bernard von Gizycki - Deutsche Bank Peter Winter ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net interest income of $123.5 million, which is $21 million higher than the first quarter of 2024 and slightly higher than the fourth quarter of 2024 [3] - Tangible book value increased by 3% since the last quarter and 13% year-over-year, ending at $30.31 per share [2] - The common equity Tier 1 capital ratio stood at 11.4% and the risk-based capital ratio at 12.9% for the quarter [2] - The provision expense was $6.6 million, up $2.1 million from the first quarter of 2024 and $900,000 from the fourth quarter [6] - The allowance for credit losses ended the quarter at just over $165 million, an increase of about $576,000 from the fourth quarter [7] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Non-interest income decreased by about 7% compared to the first quarter of 2024, primarily due to a one-time benefit recorded in 2024 [8] - However, on a normalized basis, non-interest income increased by about 7% compared to the first quarter of 2024, driven by higher service charges on deposit accounts [8] - Non-interest expense was down $789,000 compared to the fourth quarter of 2024 and flat compared to the first quarter of 2024 [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The loan-to-deposit ratio stands at 89%, with an adjusted ratio of 77% when including correspondent Fed funds purchased [1] - The company anticipates over $1.9 billion in asset repricing over the next 12 months [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to focus on organic loan and deposit growth, priced competitively and profitably [12] - Management expressed optimism about the balance of the year, noting that the commercial real estate transactions need short-term interest rates to decrease for improvement [27] - The company is looking for additional levers to improve income without increasing risk, considering deploying excess liquidity [61] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted a potential slowdown in loan demand but emphasized the resilience of Main Street compared to Wall Street [26] - There is no significant impact from tariffs observed, and management remains optimistic about the overall economic environment [28][32] - The company expects cash balances to decrease over the next few months, which may positively impact net interest margin [24] Other Important Information - The company experienced a seasonal spike in payroll taxes in the first quarter, but payroll expenses were down about 5% compared to the fourth quarter due to adjustments in incentive plan payouts [10] - The efficiency ratio was reported below 35%, reflecting strong expense discipline [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: How does the company view deposit trends for the rest of the year? - Management indicated that municipal deposits may decline as the year progresses, with correspondent balances leveling off after tax season [21][22] Question: What is the outlook for net interest margin (NIM)? - Management expects cash balances to decrease, which may help improve NIM as the balance sheet remixes [23][24] Question: What is the company's perspective on loan growth and pipeline demand? - Management remains optimistic about loan growth, noting steady and granular growth across various markets [38][39] Question: How are loan pricing dynamics evolving? - Loan pricing has remained steady, but management expressed concerns that current pricing levels should be higher [42][43] Question: What is the expected trend for operating expenses? - Operating expenses are projected to remain in the range of $46 to $46.5 million, excluding potential new hires [44][45] Question: Can you provide details on non-performing loans? - Non-performing loans are primarily in the medical sector, with good collateral backing them [48][52]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $69.5 million for Q1 2025, a 13.3% decrease from $80.2 million in Q4 2024 [10] - Earnings per share decreased by 12.5% to $0.98 for Q1 2025 compared to $1.12 in Q4 2024 [10] - The interest margin increased to 3.25% for Q1 2025 from 3.07% in Q4 2024 [23] - Non-interest income for Q1 decreased by 4.3% to $11.2 million compared to $15.5 million in Q4 2024 [25] - Non-interest expense increased by 0.6% to $85.7 million in Q1 2025 from $85.2 million in Q4 2024 [25][27] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total gross loans decreased by $23 million or 0.5% annualized, driven by a $100 million decrease in commercial loans and a $65 million decrease in residential loans, offset by increases in CRE loans by $127 million and construction loans by $13 million [11] - The loan portfolio consists of 62% fixed rate and hybrid loans, with fixed rate loans comprising 30% and hybrid loans 32% [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total deposits increased by $131 million, or 2.7% annualized during Q1 2025, primarily due to a net increase of $67 million in core deposits and an increase of $64 million in time deposits [19] - As of March 31, 2025, total uninsured deposits were $8.5 billion, accounting for 42.7% of total deposits [20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company has widened its 2025 loan growth guidance to 1% to 4% from the previous guidance of 3% to 4% due to economic uncertainties [11] - The management is closely monitoring the impact of tariffs on borrowers and the loan portfolio, estimating that about 1.4% of total loans could be adversely impacted by post-tariff conditions [8] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed concerns about the current economic environment, particularly regarding the impact of tariffs on commercial and industrial clients, leading to a cautious outlook on loan growth [38][42] - There is a noted shift in the residential mortgage market, with a slight uptick in activity, indicating a potential change in market dynamics [38] Other Important Information - The company completed its $125 million stock repurchase program in Q1 2025, repurchasing 876,906 shares at an average cost of $46.83 per share [11] - The effective tax rate for Q1 2025 was 19.82%, significantly higher than 7.57% in Q4 2024, due to a decrease in solar tax credit fund investment [27] Q&A Session Summary Question: Margin sensitivity to interest rate cuts - Management indicated that for every rate cut, the margin would be impacted by about four basis points on a full-year basis, with a two basis point impact if it occurs in July [31] Question: Loan growth guidance revision - Management explained that the revision to the loan growth guidance was due to current uncertainties and observed behavior from commercial clients, who are pausing growth plans and focusing on managing their balance sheets [36][40] Question: Specific commercial credit provision - The provision for credit loss was primarily related to a domestic company, not directly tied to trade finance or tariffs, although some reserves were built for tariff-related exposures [48]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $418 million or $1.04 per share, with an annualized return on beginning of year equity of 19.9% [12] - Operating earnings were $405 million or $1.01 per share, yielding an annualized return on beginning of year equity of 19.3% [13] - The calendar year combined ratio was 90.9%, with the current accident year combined ratio excluding catastrophic losses at 87.2% [13] - Stockholders' equity increased by more than $500 million or 6.2% over the beginning of the year, reaching a record $8.9 billion [21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The insurance segment grew net premiums written to a record of more than $3.1 billion, with a 10.2% increase to $2.7 billion in the insurance segment [16] - The Reinsurance and Monoline Access segment grew 8.2% to a record quarter of $439 million, with growth in property and excess workers' compensation [16] - The expense ratio improved to 27.8%, benefiting from the growth in net premiums earned [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced significant industry-wide catastrophic activity, particularly from California wildfires, impacting the loss ratio by 3.7% or $111 million [14] - The current accident year loss ratio excluding catastrophic losses was 59.4%, representing a 30 basis point increase over the prior year [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to create value and emphasizes the importance of avoiding backward steps in value creation [9] - Management highlighted the resilience of the business model, indicating it is built to perform well in both favorable and challenging environments [8] - The company is focused on maintaining rate adequacy while growing the business, particularly in specialty workers' compensation and property lines [24][27] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted the current environment is characterized by volatility across political, social, economic, and natural disaster fronts [6][7] - The company remains optimistic about the balance of 2025, indicating strong performance despite challenges [37] - Management is closely monitoring the impact of tariffs on loss costs and pricing strategies [30][61] Other Important Information - The company anticipates investment fund income may be at the lower end of the quarterly range of $10 million to $20 million in the next quarter due to recent market volatility [18] - The credit quality of the investment portfolio remains strong at AA minus, with a duration increase from 2.6 years to 2.7 years [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: What areas contributed to the short tail lines being up 13%? - Management indicated opportunities in property lines and accident and health (A and H) space as significant drivers [41] Question: Can you elaborate on the property pricing trends? - Management noted that while there is competition, they continue to see opportunities to push rates in the property market [44] Question: What is the outlook for reinsurance combined ratios? - Management expressed satisfaction with the current performance but acknowledged uncertainty about future conditions [46] Question: Can you provide details on reserve movements in the insurance segment? - The insurance segment experienced $11 million unfavorable prior year development, while reinsurance was favorable by $12 million [53] Question: How are tariffs impacting loss ratios? - Management stated that tariffs could potentially drive up loss costs, but quantifying the impact is premature at this time [85] Question: What is the growth outlook for specialty workers' compensation? - Management indicated that they see continued growth opportunities in specialty workers' compensation due to less competition [92] Question: How does the company view the impact of social inflation and pricing levels? - Management is encouraged by recent discipline in the market but remains cautious about future pricing trends [79]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Acme United Corporation reported net sales of $46 million for Q1 2025, a 2% increase from $45 million in Q1 2024 [6][17] - Net income for Q1 2025 was $1.65 million, up 1% from $1.63 million in the same period last year, with earnings per share increasing 5% from $0.39 to $0.41 [18][19] - Gross margin improved to 39.0% in Q1 2025 from 38.7% in Q1 2024 [18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The first aid business grew by 14% in Q1 2025, significantly contributing to overall growth [7] - Sales of Westcott cutting tools were impacted by a large initial order in Q1 2024, leading to a decrease in sales this quarter [8][66] - The European business saw a decline of 7% due to a large promotion in 2024 that did not repeat [8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales in the US segment increased by 3%, primarily driven by higher sales of first aid and medical products [17] - European net sales declined by 4% in local currency, attributed to timing issues [17] - Canadian net sales increased by 6% in local currency, benefiting from higher sales of first aid products [17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on expanding its first aid and medical product lines in Europe and strengthening its sales team in Germany [9] - Acme United is exploring acquisition opportunities, particularly in the cutting tool and first aid sectors, leveraging its strong market position [25][27] - The company is investing in automation and expanding its production capabilities in the US to mitigate tariff impacts [11][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating the current challenging macroeconomic environment characterized by high inflation and tariff uncertainties [4][16] - The company views tariff uncertainties as potential opportunities to gain market share, especially as competitors may face margin pressures [27] - Management is cautious about pricing strategies and is monitoring the impact of tariffs on costs and consumer demand [32][36] Other Important Information - The company has installed its first robotic system in its North Carolina plant, enhancing production efficiency [11] - Acme United has generated over $2 million in annual productivity savings from capital projects [14] - Approximately 40% of the company's products are sourced from China, highlighting the significance of tariff impacts on operations [98] Q&A Session Summary Question: Acquisition Strategy - The company is considering acquisitions in both the cutting tool and first aid sectors, focusing on North America and potential suppliers [25][26] Question: Tariff Impacts - Management discussed the uncertainty surrounding tariffs, particularly on imports from China, and the potential for increased costs impacting pricing strategies [33][34] Question: Inventory and Cost of Goods Sold - The company is on a FIFO basis and does not expect a significant hit from inventory costs, but acknowledges the need to adjust pricing as inventory is depleted [45][47] Question: Future Acquisitions - Management is open to larger transformative deals but is currently finding favorable responses from potential acquisition targets [52][54] Question: First Aid Business Growth - The growth in the first aid business is expected to be a mix of organic growth and price increases due to tariffs, with a historical growth rate of 8-12% anticipated [84] Question: Sourcing Alternatives - The company is actively exploring alternative sourcing options outside of China, including production in Vietnam and India [39][40] Question: Customer Behavior - Customers are placing advanced orders, but the company is prioritizing long-term customers with standing orders [95][96]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Banner Corporation reported a net profit available to common shareholders of $45.1 million or $1.30 per diluted share for Q1 2025, compared to $1.09 per share for Q1 2024 and $1.34 per share for Q4 2024 [9] - Core earnings for Q1 2025 were $59 million, up from $53 million in Q1 2024, with revenue from core operations increasing to $160 million from $150 million year-over-year [11] - Return on average assets was 1.15% for Q1 2025, reflecting continued execution on the super community bank strategy [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total loans increased by $84 million in Q1 2025, with a 5% year-over-year growth, while core deposits increased by 3% [13][21] - Delinquent loans rose to 0.63% of total loans, up from 0.49% at year-end and 0.36% in March 2024, indicating a manageable increase despite the higher interest rate environment [16] - Nonperforming assets increased to 0.26% of total assets, consisting of $39 million in nonperforming loans [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The agricultural sector remains a concern due to tariff implications, with the ag portfolio representing 3% of total loans [51][26] - The construction portfolio, including residential, commercial, and multifamily construction, remains acceptable at 15% of total loans [24] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to maintain a moderate risk profile while focusing on core deposit growth and client relationships [12][13] - Banner has been recognized as one of America's 100 best banks and continues to receive accolades for its business model and value proposition [14][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed caution regarding the economic environment, anticipating a slowdown due to tariffs and market volatility, but remains optimistic about capturing market share [118][119] - The company plans to continue robust portfolio reviews and maintain close contact with borrowers to understand long-term implications of economic changes [27] Other Important Information - The company announced a core dividend of 48 cents per common share, reflecting strong capital ratios and tangible common equity growth of 13% year-over-year [13] - The company has a strong balance sheet and capital base, exceeding regulatory requirements [32] Q&A Session Summary Question: Margin expectations and components - Management noted that funding costs were flat throughout the quarter, with expectations for NIM expansion in Q2 if the Fed cuts rates [44] Question: Agricultural sector concerns - Management indicated ongoing caution regarding the agricultural sector due to tariff implications, expecting continued strain in the coming months [49] Question: Competitive dynamics and client demand - Management reported that pipelines continue to grow despite uncertainty, with clients eager to proceed once clarity is achieved [61] Question: Capital plans and stock buyback - Management emphasized maintaining the core dividend as a priority, with potential for stock buybacks under consideration [85] Question: Economic outlook and defense spending - Management expressed a pessimistic view on economic growth but noted opportunities for market share due to disruptions in the banking sector [118] Question: Changes in oversight on retail CRE book - Management confirmed no changes in oversight but maintains a thorough quarterly review process [136]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The headline earnings number reflects the challenges in the transportation market, but almost every metric reported improved in the transportation businesses, particularly in the Payments segment [5][6] - Revenue from transportation businesses is currently at $206 million, which must increase materially by year-end to sustain current investment levels [29] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Payments segment showed significant improvement in key performance indicators (KPIs), indicating potential for revenue growth from existing clients [14][17] - The factoring segment generated $144 million in revenue, which is considered low, but there is an expectation for it to at least double as more clients are onboarded [40] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is experiencing strong headwinds in the freight market, but there are opportunities arising from large trucking companies returning to the factoring market due to difficulties in maintaining covenants [16] - The second quarter is expected to have significant noise due to potential closings and other factors, with clearer revenue visibility anticipated in the latter half of the year [18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on growing revenue profitably despite market conditions, emphasizing the importance of investments made to create durable value [6][7] - There is a strategic emphasis on monetizing the Payments segment and upgrading legacy contracts to capture additional revenue [58][60] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in improving credit quality and expects that credit will not be a significant concern in the latter half of the year, focusing instead on revenue growth [75] - The company acknowledges the economic uncertainties but believes it is well-positioned to navigate these challenges due to its understanding of its portfolio [70][74] Other Important Information - The company is in the process of closing the Green Screens acquisition, which is expected to enhance its data monetization capabilities [44][47] - Management believes that investing in Green Screens will deliver more long-term shareholder value than share buybacks at current prices [49] Q&A Session Summary Question: Revenue outlook and growth opportunities - Management discussed potential revenue growth from Load Pay and Green Screens, indicating that existing clients are expected to contribute to revenue growth as they upgrade services [12][17] Question: Conforming invoice volume and fee growth - Management clarified that fee growth in the Payments segment can occur independently of conforming invoice volume, as fees are charged based on the services provided [20][22] Question: Revenue split between first and second half of the year - Management indicated that the bulk of revenue growth is expected to come from payments and factoring, with a significant increase needed by year-end [29][30] Question: Financial opportunity from next-gen audit migration - Management stated that the next-gen audit migration is still in early stages, with significant opportunities expected to be captured over the next year [33] Question: Credit metrics and economic uncertainty - Management expressed optimism about credit quality improvements, noting that they have been proactive in addressing credit stress in their portfolio [68][70]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $17.2 million or $1.47 per diluted common share, up from $13.4 million or $1.13 per share in the same quarter a year ago, reflecting a strong performance [6][16] - Net interest income totaled $49.3 million in Q1 2025, an increase of about 10% from $44.8 million in Q1 2024 [8][16] - The net interest margin increased to 3.57%, up from 3.32% in the same period last year [17][24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The loan portfolio remained flat at $4.76 billion, up 2.2% from the end of Q1 2024 [9][25] - The largest categories in the loan portfolio were multifamily at $1.59 billion and commercial real estate at $1.49 billion [10] - Non-interest income totaled $6.6 million, a decrease of 3.2% compared to the first quarter last year [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total deposits increased by 3.3% to $4.76 billion compared to the end of 2024, driven by increases in interest-bearing checking balances [11][26] - Non-performing assets were 0.16% of total assets, with non-performing loans at 0.07% of period-end loans [28][29] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on execution, protecting margins, and supporting relationship-based loan growth while investing strategically in people and systems [15][24] - The board approved a new stock repurchase authorization of up to 1 million shares, indicating a commitment to returning value to shareholders [33] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that while there is competition for loans, the overall activity is down slightly, and they do not expect significant growth in the near term [47] - The company maintains a strong capital position and is well-positioned to address current and future funding needs despite economic uncertainties [25][34] Other Important Information - Non-interest expenses were flat year-over-year at $34.8 million, reflecting effective cost management [14][21] - The allowance for credit losses as a percentage of total loans stood at 1.36%, consistent with the end of 2024 [30] Q&A Session Summary Question: How should the margin react without changes to Fed policy? - Management indicated that while there may be slight benefits from maturing CDs, substantial changes are not expected [38] Question: How would the balance sheet react to potential Fed rate cuts? - Management feels neutral about interest rate risk and expects a slight negative impact initially, but recovery should occur quickly [43][44] Question: Thoughts on buyback activity going forward? - Management expects to remain active in buybacks, depending on share prices and availability [54][55] Question: Is modest growth in expenses reasonable without material planned expenditures? - Management confirmed that modest growth in expenses is a fair assumption, with no unusual expenditures anticipated [57]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net earnings for Q2 2025 increased to $10.2 million from $6.9 million a year ago, and earnings per share rose to $0.52 from $0.35 per diluted share in the prior year [5][4] - Shipments for the quarter increased by 0.9% year-over-year and 0.9% sequentially from Q1 [5] - Gross profit for the quarter increased to $24.5 million, an 8.8% increase from a year ago, while gross margin expanded to 12.3% from 11.3% [8][10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Improved shipping performance was driven by increased activity across most construction markets and additional tonnage from first-quarter acquisitions [6] - Average selling prices declined by 2.2% year-over-year but rose by 0.1% sequentially from Q1 due to price increases implemented to offset rising raw material costs [6] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The supply of wire rod in the US market became more constrained, leading to price increases, with published prices for steel wire rod increasing approximately $150 per ton during Q1 [7] - The architectural billing index (ABI) ratio score was 45.5%, indicating declining billings, while the Dodge Amendment Index saw a decrease of 0.9% in March [20][21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on maximizing shipments and optimizing costs while pursuing growth opportunities, both organic and through acquisitions [34][35] - The recent extension of Section 232 tariffs to downstream products, including PC Strand, is viewed positively as it eliminates competitive disadvantages [25][49] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism about market outlook, supported by strong demand and shipment trends, although uncertainties remain due to shifting US trade policies [17][18] - The company is working to ramp up operating hours at all facilities to accommodate increasing business levels, but raw material availability remains a concern [41] Other Important Information - Cash flow from operations used $3.3 million in the quarter compared to providing $1.4 million last year, with net working capital consuming approximately $21.9 million of cash [14] - The company incurred $2.2 million in capital expenditures in the quarter, reducing the full-year target to $17 million from the previous $22 million [15][34] Q&A Session Summary Question: How is the company viewing and managing the broader operating environment? - Management noted a distinct acceleration in business since Q1, with robust shipping comparables through April, although raw material availability is a limiting factor [39][40] Question: What are the thoughts on the disconnect between macro indicators and on-the-ground conditions? - Management acknowledged the frustration with the lack of objective data but emphasized solid quotation activity and customer optimism [43][44] Question: How is the company thinking about pricing in the current environment? - The extension of Section 232 tariffs is seen as positive, but the company still faces challenges due to lower world market prices compared to US prices [48][49] Question: How does the current situation compare to the disruptions experienced during COVID? - Management indicated that the current underlying fundamentals are much more solid than during the COVID recovery, with a better supply-demand relationship [58] Question: Are there any anticipated price increases and how are competitors responding? - Management noted that tight supplies are leading to elevated prices, and it is uncertain how long this will continue into the fourth quarter [62]