Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the second quarter, net sales increased by 1%, with a $24 million benefit from foreign currency translation, while on a constant currency basis, net sales were essentially flat compared to last year [14] - Volume rose by 8%, driven by customer wins and share gains, despite softer restaurant traffic [14] - Adjusted EBITDA declined by $9 million year-over-year to $286 million, while adjusted gross profit decreased by $16 million primarily due to unfavorable price mix [17][18] - Free Cash Flow was strong at $375 million, with capital expenditures down to $156 million in the first half, reflecting disciplined investment [22][23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America net sales were essentially flat year-over-year, with an 8% increase in volume supported by recent customer contract wins [15] - International segment net sales increased by 4%, but declined by 1% on a constant currency basis, with volume growth of 7% [15][16] - Adjusted EBITDA in North America increased by 7% to $288 million, while the international segment's adjusted EBITDA declined to $27 million due to pricing pressures and higher manufacturing costs [19][20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In North America, QSR traffic was flat, with QSR chicken growing while QSR burger traffic declined by 3% [14] - Internationally, restaurant traffic in most markets declined, including a 3% drop in the U.K., the largest international market [14] - Asia, including China, led volume growth in the quarter, with multinational chain customers also contributing to growth [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is executing its "Focus to Win" strategy, focusing on strengthening customer partnerships and driving cost savings [4][6] - The company is reopening previously curtailed capacity in North America to meet customer demand and maintain high fill rates [4][9] - The company is building a culture of continuous improvement and reducing volatility through customer contracting and raw procurement strategies [5] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted a dynamic macroeconomic and competitive environment, particularly in international markets, but expressed confidence in their plans to control controllables for long-term growth [5][6] - The company expects continued volume growth and strong sales momentum for the second half of the fiscal year, with North America volumes expected to grow at or above first-half rates [24] - Price mix is anticipated to remain unfavorable in the second half, but to a lesser extent than the first half [25] Other Important Information - The company repurchased $40 million of shares during the second quarter and announced a 3% increase in the quarterly dividend [6][23] - The company is actively working to rebalance supply and demand within its network, ensuring the right assets are in place to serve priority markets [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: Regarding rebalancing supply and demand in Europe - Management confirmed that they are curtailing a single line in Europe and are looking across the global supply chain to balance supply and demand [28][29] Question: Volume drivers in North America for the back half of the year - Management indicated that a significant component of volume growth is driven by a higher proportion of business with multinational chain customers and a shift from branded to private label [30][31] Question: Update on international markets, particularly Asia - Management acknowledged increased competition in Asia but expressed confidence in future growth, particularly in Latin America [32][33] Question: Gross margin expectations for the second half - Management clarified that gross margins are expected to be flat to down in the second half, primarily due to mixed shifts and pricing headwinds [34][35] Question: Capacity decisions in North America - Management explained that high utilization rates necessitated reopening additional capacity to meet customer expectations, with no expected negative impact on profitability [39][40] Question: Execution improvements and metrics - Management highlighted the implementation of clear accountabilities and KPIs across the supply chain to enhance execution and predictability [42][43] Question: Capital allocation and share repurchases - Management reiterated their commitment to disciplined capital allocation, including opportunistic share repurchases while investing in business capabilities [61]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company expects organic net sales growth in the second half of the fiscal year, with positive momentum observed in December [11][12] - Operating profit and margin performance in the first half of the year has been good, with favorable tariff timing and chicken inflation, although there are offsets with beef and pork [21][22] - The company maintains its inflation guidance of 7% for the year, with core inflation above 4% and gross tariff inflation around 3% [42][44] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The frozen and snacks segments are identified as growth domains, with snacks already showing robust growth and frozen aiming to reclaim market share lost due to previous supply constraints [31][32] - The company is focusing on high-quality promotional activities in the frozen segment, which were limited last year due to supply issues [32][33] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has seen a return to growth in the frozen and snacks categories, with strong marketing plans in place for the second half of the year [31][33] - The market share in frozen single-serve meals is approaching 53%, indicating a recovery in that segment [32] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is implementing Project Catalyst, which focuses on re-engineering core business processes using technology, particularly AI, to improve efficiency and effectiveness [25][26] - The company is committed to margin expansion, particularly in the frozen segment, through productivity improvements and supply chain resiliency investments [52][53] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges the volatility in the operating environment and has guided a wider range for EPS to navigate uncertainties [23][83] - The company is optimistic about the second half of the fiscal year, expecting strong underlying trends and promotional activities to drive growth [85] Other Important Information - The company has completed the baked chicken facility, which is expected to enhance production efficiency and margins [100][101] - An impairment charge was taken due to a sustained decline in stock price, which required a reassessment of goodwill and brand values [102][104] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expectations for organic sales growth in fiscal Q3 - Management expects positive organic net sales growth in the second half, with momentum building in December [11][12] Question: Clarification on annual outlook and EPS impact from Ardent - Management believes they can offset the shortfall from Ardent and maintain EPS guidance despite a wider range due to market volatility [22][23] Question: Insights on Project Catalyst and cost savings - Project Catalyst aims to automate core business processes, with expected costs and returns being evaluated as the project progresses [25][26] Question: Consumption trends and growth outlook for fiscal 2027 - Management sees potential for growth in frozen and snacks, with strong marketing plans and market share recovery [31][33] Question: Impact of competitors' price cuts on the company - The company has not rolled back prices to move volume but has maintained pricing to support promotional activities [40][41] Question: Inflation guidance and its implications - The company maintains its inflation guidance of 7% for the year, with expectations for inflation to normalize in the future [42][44] Question: Repatriation of production and margin improvement - The transition to in-house production is underway, with expectations incorporated into the fiscal guidance [100][101] Question: Details on impairment charge - The impairment charge was due to a decline in stock price, necessitating a reassessment of goodwill and brand values [102][104]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company expects organic net sales growth in the second half of the fiscal year, with positive momentum observed in December [11][12] - Operating profit and margin performance in the first half of the year has been good, with favorable tariff timing and chicken inflation, although there are offsets with beef and pork [21][22] - The company maintains a total gross inflation guidance of 7% for the year, with core inflation slightly above 4% and gross tariff inflation around 3% [42][44] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The frozen and snacks segments are identified as growth domains, with snacks already showing robust growth and frozen aiming to reclaim market share lost due to previous supply constraints [31][32] - The company is focusing on productivity improvements, with productivity running at about 5% [52] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has seen a return to growth in the snacks category, benefiting from a bounce back in convenience stores [31] - Frozen single-serve meals market share is close to 53%, indicating strong recovery and growth potential [32] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is implementing Project Catalyst, which focuses on re-engineering core business processes using technology, particularly AI, to enhance efficiency and effectiveness [25][26] - The company is committed to margin expansion, particularly in the frozen segment, through productivity improvements and supply chain resiliency investments [52] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges the volatility in the operating environment and has guided to a wider range for EPS to navigate uncertainties [23][82] - The company is optimistic about the second half of the fiscal year, expecting strong promotional activity and improved market conditions [85] Other Important Information - The company has completed the baked chicken facility, which is expected to enhance production efficiency and margin [100] - An impairment charge was taken due to a sustained decline in stock price, which required a reassessment of goodwill and brand value [102][103] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expectations for organic sales growth in Q3 - Management expects positive organic net sales growth in the second half, with momentum building in December [11][12] Question: Clarification on annual outlook and impact of Ardent - Management feels confident in offsetting the shortfall from Ardent and maintaining EPS guidance [22][23] Question: Insights on Project Catalyst and cost savings - Project Catalyst aims to automate business processes for improved efficiency, with expected returns on investment [25][26] Question: Consumption trends and growth outlook for fiscal 2027 - Management sees potential for growth in frozen and snacks, with strong marketing plans in place [31][34] Question: Impact of competitors' price cuts - The company has not rolled back prices to move volume but has maintained pricing to support promotional activities [40][41] Question: Inflation guidance and its components - The company maintains a total gross inflation guidance of 7%, with some favorable trends in chicken but increased costs in beef and pork [42][44] Question: AMP spending and consumer value-seeking behavior - The company will emphasize relative value in advertising to attract consumers [74][75] Question: Weather impact on sales - Management noted that colder weather has positively affected sales trends in the canned food segment [79][80] Question: EPS range and uncertainties - Management indicated that the EPS range remains wide due to ongoing uncertainties in the market [82][83] Question: Portfolio management and M&A strategy - The company is open to reshaping its portfolio for value creation but is currently focused on debt reduction [95] Question: Completion of the baked chicken facility and margin improvement - The transition to in-house production is expected to enhance margins, with the project on track [100][101]

Paychex (NasdaqGS:PAYX) Q2 2026 Earnings Call December 19, 2025 09:30 AM ET Company ParticipantsSamad Samana - Managing DirectorBryan Bergin - Managing DirectorJohn Gibson - President and CEOBryan Keane - Head of North America Payments Processors and IT Services ResearchKartik Mehta - Executive Managing Director and Director of ResearchBob Schrader - Senior VP and CFOJames Faucette - Managing DirectorTien-tsin Huang - Managing DirectorConference Call ParticipantsMark Marcon - Senior Research AnalystAndrew N ...

Paychex (NasdaqGS:PAYX) Q2 2026 Earnings Call December 19, 2025 09:30 AM ET Company ParticipantsSamad Samana - Managing DirectorBryan Bergin - Managing DirectorJohn Gibson - President and CEOBryan Keane - Head of North America Payments Processors and IT Services ResearchKartik Mehta - Executive Managing Director and Director of ResearchBob Schrader - Senior VP and CFOJames Faucette - Managing DirectorTien-tsin Huang - Managing DirectorConference Call ParticipantsMark Marcon - Senior Research AnalystAndrew N ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue increased by 18% year over year to $1.6 billion, with management solutions revenue growing by 21% to $1.2 billion, primarily driven by product penetration and price realization [12][3] - Adjusted operating income grew by 21% over the prior year, with operating income margins at 36.7% and adjusted operating income margins increasing by approximately 80 basis points year over year to 41.7% [12][3] - Diluted earnings per share decreased by 4% to $1.10, while adjusted diluted earnings per share increased by 11% to $1.26 [12][3] - Interest on funds held for clients increased by 51% to $54 million, reflecting the addition of Paycor balances and higher realized gains [12][3] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - PEO and insurance solutions revenue increased by 6% to $337 million, driven by solid growth in the number of average PEO worksite employees [12][3] - The PO business achieved market-leading mid-single-digit worksite employee growth, supported by strong demand and near-record retention [4][5] - Paycor contributed approximately 17 percentage points to the growth in management solutions revenue [12][3] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Clients' workforce levels remained relatively stable with flat same-store employment growth this quarter [5] - The Small Business Employment Watch index has remained stable throughout 2025, showing no signs of a recession at this time [5] - Small businesses continue to face challenges in sourcing qualified talent, indicating a competitive labor market [5] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on integrating the Paycor acquisition and achieving approximately $100 million in cost synergies for fiscal year 2026 [3][4] - The company is leveraging AI to enhance operational efficiency and client outcomes, with a strong emphasis on data quality and scale [8][9] - The company aims to position itself as a digitally driven HR leader by reinventing the HCM experience as AI-first [11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains confident in the value proposition and demand for HR technology and advisory solutions, despite macroeconomic challenges [5][6] - The company expects to achieve revenue synergies targets for the fiscal year and is optimistic about the ongoing integration of Paycor [4][12] - Management anticipates total revenue growth of approximately 18% for the third quarter, with adjusted operating margins between 47% and 48% [15][16] Other Important Information - The company has launched a GenAI-powered employment law and compliance platform, which has seen strong adoption and utilization by HR experts [10] - The company is actively exploring additional applications of AI across its business to enhance efficiency and improve client outcomes [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: Concerns about Paycor's contribution to growth - Management acknowledged integration challenges but emphasized that Paycor's growth was estimated to be between 8% to 9% on a pro forma basis, slightly better than Q1 [20][21] Question: Insights on selling season and cost synergies - Management noted that demand remains consistent with historical levels, and they are optimistic about achieving long-term cost synergies through AI initiatives [25][26] Question: Guidance for fiscal 2026 and revenue per client - Management indicated that revenue per client growth was softer than expected, leading to guidance adjustments towards the low end of the range [33][34] Question: Pricing and bundling strategies - Management stated that they have a comprehensive pricing strategy and are exploring adjustments but feel confident in their current pricing model [52][53] Question: Upsell motion to PEO and client receptivity - Management reported strong receptivity to PEO offerings, with a balanced mix of new and existing clients contributing to growth [60][61]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company expects organic net sales growth in the second half of fiscal 2026, driven by improved shipment flows and easier comparisons in the frozen segment [9][10] - Operating profit and margin performance in the first half of the year were strong, with favorable tariff timing and productivity programs contributing positively [18][21] - The company maintains a total gross inflation guidance of 7% for the year, with core inflation slightly above 4% and tariff inflation around 3% [41][42] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The frozen and snacks segments are identified as key growth areas, with snacks already showing robust growth and frozen aiming to reclaim market share lost during supply constraints [28][30] - The company is focusing on high-quality promotional activities in the frozen segment, which were limited in the previous year due to supply issues [30][31] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has seen a return to growth in the snacks segment, benefiting from increased convenience store traffic [28] - The frozen segment's market share is recovering, with single-serve meals approaching a 53% market share, indicating strong competitive positioning [30] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is implementing Project Catalyst, aimed at re-engineering core business processes using technology and AI to enhance efficiency and effectiveness [23][24] - The focus remains on debt reduction and evaluating portfolio opportunities, including potential divestitures and inbounds, to create shareholder value [92] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving positive organic sales growth in the second half of the fiscal year, despite a volatile environment [21][22] - The company is cautious about predicting inflation trends but anticipates a normalization in protein prices, which have been a significant cost driver [88][89] Other Important Information - The company completed a significant impairment charge due to a sustained decline in stock price, necessitating a reassessment of goodwill and brand values [100][101] - The baked chicken facility is now complete, with plans to repatriate production to improve margins [96][99] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expectations for organic sales growth in Q3 - Management expects positive organic net sales growth in the second half, with improved shipment flows and promotional activities [9][10] Question: Impact of competitors' price cuts - The company has not rolled back prices to move volume but has maintained pricing to support promotional activities [37][38] Question: Inflation guidance and its components - The company maintains a gross inflation guidance of 7%, with core inflation slightly above 4% and tariff inflation around 3% [41][42] Question: AMP spending and its impact - Increased AMP spending will emphasize relative value in marketing, aiming to attract value-seeking consumers [72][73] Question: Trends in frozen and refrigerated segments - Management anticipates a strong second half for frozen products, with market shares recovering and promotional activities ramping up [83][84] Question: Portfolio management and potential M&A - The company is open to reshaping its portfolio for value creation but is currently focused on debt reduction [92] Question: Completion of the baked chicken facility - The facility is complete, and production will transition back in-house, which is expected to improve margins [96][99]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated net income increased 35% to a record $188.3 million, or $1.33 per diluted share in Q4 Fiscal 2025, up from $139.7 million, or $0.99 per diluted share in Q4 Fiscal 2024 [9] - Consolidated operating income and net sales improved by 28% and 19% respectively compared to Q4 Fiscal 2024 [10] - Consolidated EBITDA increased 26% to $331.4 million in Q4 Fiscal 2025, up from $264 million in Q4 Fiscal 2024 [11] - Cash flow from operating activities increased 44% to $295.3 million in Q4 Fiscal 2025, up from $205.6 million in Q4 Fiscal 2024 [11] - Net debt-to-EBITDA ratio improved to 1.6 as of October 31, 2025, down from 2.06 on October 31, 2024 [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Flight Support Group's net sales increased 21% to a record $834.4 million in Q4 Fiscal 2025, up from $691.8 million in Q4 Fiscal 2024, driven by 16% organic growth [15] - Flight Support Group's operating income increased 30% to a record $201 million in Q4 Fiscal 2025, up from $154.5 million in Q4 Fiscal 2024 [16] - Electronic Technologies Group's net sales increased 14% to a record $384.8 million in Q4 Fiscal 2025, up from $336.2 million in Q4 Fiscal 2024 [18] - Electronic Technologies Group's operating income increased 10% to a record $89.6 million in Q4 Fiscal 2025, up from $81.8 million in Q4 Fiscal 2024 [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The flight support group's defense business is experiencing significant growth due to increased demand from the U.S. and allies, emphasizing defense readiness and cost efficiency [16] - The overall market environment is favorable, contributing to strong organic growth and increased demand across product lines [31] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to pursue selective acquisition opportunities that complement growth, maintaining a balance between organic growth and strategic acquisitions [22] - The focus remains on delivering high-quality, lower-cost alternative aircraft parts to support government and taxpayer cost reductions [16] - The company aims to continue expanding cash margins while delivering high-quality products and services [18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expresses optimism about future growth, citing strong performance and a favorable market environment [9][31] - The company anticipates net sales growth across both business groups in Fiscal 2026, driven by organic growth and recent acquisitions [22] - Management acknowledges the challenges of predicting future growth but remains confident in the company's ability to outperform the market [33][86] Other Important Information - The company completed five acquisitions in Fiscal 2025, enhancing sales, earnings, and cash flow [12] - A semiannual cash dividend of $0.12 per share was declared, reflecting confidence in strong cash flow generation [11] Q&A Session All Questions and Answers Question: How is the growth outlook for the Flight Support Group? - Management acknowledges strong organic growth and attributes it to a combination of market conditions and the company's value proposition [31][32] Question: What is the outlook for M&A activity going into 2026? - Management indicates a robust pipeline of acquisition opportunities and expresses optimism about future deals [40][41] Question: How comfortable is the company with leveraging for acquisitions? - The CFO states that the company is open to taking on additional leverage for the right transaction, aiming to maintain a comfortable debt level [42][43] Question: What is the status of PMA parts for defense? - Management confirms progress on PMA parts for defense, viewing it as a medium-term opportunity [44] Question: How does the company view the defense and space segment's growth? - Management believes the mix will remain consistent, with significant opportunities in both commercial and defense sectors [48][49] Question: What are the expectations for FSG margins going forward? - Management anticipates continued margin improvement, with a target range of 23.5% to 24.5% for GAAP operating margins [56][59]

Summary of i-80 Gold Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: i-80 Gold (NYSEAM:IAUX) - **Focus**: Refurbishment of the Lone Tree plant in northern Nevada, part of a hub-and-spoke mining and processing strategy Key Points Industry Context - The Lone Tree plant is a significant asset for i-80 Gold, designed to process high-grade refractory and oxide feed from three underground gold projects: Granite Creek, Archimedes, and Cove [3][4] - i-80 Gold is one of two companies in Nevada with autoclave processing facilities, the other being Nevada Gold Mines [3][4] Refurbishment Update - The refurbishment of the Lone Tree plant is a major milestone, expected to enhance processing capabilities and improve economic margins [4][5] - The engineering study was completed by Hatch Ltd, confirming the design and capital costs for the refurbishment [5][8] - The total estimated capital cost for the refurbishment is approximately $430 million, which includes a contingency of 12% and capital spares [13][18] Economic Impact - Once operational, the plant is expected to improve margins by $1,000 to $1,500 per ounce of gold, significantly enhancing free cash flow generation [4][12] - The project is anticipated to have a payback period of 12 to 24 months, depending on gold prices and ore grades [14][18] Project Timeline - Early works commenced in Q3 2025, with full construction targeted to begin in the second half of 2026 and commissioning expected by the end of 2027 [15][16] - Permitting applications for new operational components are projected to be submitted in Q1 2026 [16] Recapitalization Strategy - i-80 Gold is advancing a recapitalization plan to fund the refurbishment and restructure existing debt obligations of approximately $200 million [18][21] - The company is evaluating multiple financing options, including senior debt and a potential royalty sale [19][20] Operational Insights - The plant is designed to process up to 2,268 metric tons per day, with a focus on processing sulfide ore from the underground mines [12][26] - The updated design incorporates an acid-based POX process, expected to enhance gold recovery compared to previous designs [13][11] Team and Execution Risk - The internal team has extensive experience in autoclave operations, which is expected to reduce execution risk and support permitting [10][11] - Approximately 600,000 direct construction hours are estimated for the refurbishment, with a peak workforce of about 400 personnel [9][10] Future Production Goals - i-80 Gold aims to increase production from less than 50,000 ounces in the current year to over 600,000 ounces by the early 2030s [32] Additional Insights - The refurbishment includes environmentally responsible upgrades, such as a mercury abatement circuit and a tailings filtration system [11][12] - The company has hired a dozen new technical staff to support the development plan [32] This summary encapsulates the critical aspects of the i-80 Gold conference call, highlighting the company's strategic initiatives, financial outlook, and operational plans.

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated net income increased by 35% to a record $188.3 million, or $1.33 per diluted share in Q4 Fiscal 2025, up from $139.7 million, or $0.99 per diluted share in Q4 Fiscal 2024 [9] - Consolidated operating income and net sales in Q4 Fiscal 2025 improved by 28% and 19% respectively compared to Q4 Fiscal 2024 [10] - Consolidated EBITDA increased by 26% to $331.4 million in Q4 Fiscal 2025, up from $264 million in Q4 Fiscal 2024 [11] - Cash flow from operating activities increased by 44% to $295.3 million in Q4 Fiscal 2025, up from $205.6 million in Q4 Fiscal 2024 [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Flight Support Group's net sales increased by 21% to a record $834.4 million in Q4 Fiscal 2025, up from $691.8 million in Q4 Fiscal 2024, driven by 16% organic growth [16] - Flight Support Group's operating income increased by 30% to a record $201 million in Q4 Fiscal 2025, up from $154.5 million in Q4 Fiscal 2024 [17] - Electronic Technologies Group's net sales increased by 14% to a record $384.8 million in Q4 Fiscal 2025, up from $336.2 million in Q4 Fiscal 2024 [19] - Electronic Technologies Group's operating income increased by 10% to a record $89.6 million in Q4 Fiscal 2025, up from $81.8 million in Q4 Fiscal 2024 [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Flight Support Group's operating margin improved to 24.1% in Q4 Fiscal 2025, up from 22.3% in Q4 Fiscal 2024 [18] - Electronic Technologies Group's operating margin was 23.3% in Q4 Fiscal 2025, down from 24.3% in Q4 Fiscal 2024, primarily due to increased SG&A expenses [20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company anticipates net sales growth across both the Flight Support Group and Electronic Technologies Group, driven by organic growth and recent acquisitions [22] - The company remains focused on identifying high-quality businesses for acquisition that complement existing operations and strengthen strategic positioning [22] - The company emphasizes a disciplined financial management approach to create long-term shareholder value through a balanced combination of organic growth and strategic acquisitions [22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the company's future, citing strong demand across all product lines and a favorable market environment [9][10] - The company is well-positioned to support defense readiness and cost efficiency priorities, with significant growth in missile defense manufacturing [17] - Management noted that the organic growth has exceeded expectations, driven by a strong value proposition and a decentralized operating structure [33] Other Important Information - The company completed five acquisitions in Fiscal 2025, enhancing sales, earnings, and cash flow [12] - The board declared a semiannual cash dividend of $0.12 per share, reflecting confidence in the company's strong cash flow generation [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: How is the growth in the Flight Support Group being driven? - Management noted that organic growth has been tremendous, driven by a rising tide in the industry and the value proposition offered to customers [31] Question: What is the outlook for M&A activity going into 2026? - Management indicated a strong pipeline of acquisition opportunities and a commitment to being discerning in their acquisition strategy [40][41] Question: How comfortable is the company with leveraging for acquisitions? - Management stated they are not afraid of leverage for the right transaction and would consider increasing leverage temporarily for beneficial deals [42][43] Question: What is the state of the aftermarket fundamentals into 2026? - Management expressed confidence that demand for older aircraft will remain strong, providing opportunities for aftermarket parts [61] Question: What are the expectations for FSG margins going forward? - Management expects continued margin improvement due to greater absorption of fixed costs and investments in manufacturing capabilities [56][59]