Simon Property(SPG) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Real estate FFO was $2.95 per share in Q1 2025, compared to$2.91 in the prior year, indicating a slight increase [7] - Domestic NOI increased by 3.4% year over year, while portfolio NOI, including international properties at constant currency, grew by 3.6% for the quarter [9] - First quarter funds from operation were $1 billion or$2.67 per share, down from $1.33 billion or$3.56 per share last year, primarily due to prior year gains from asset sales [9][10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company signed 1,300 leases for over 5.1 million square feet in the quarter, with approximately 25% being new deals [8] - Mall and premium outlet occupancy at the end of the quarter was 95.9%, an increase of 40 basis points year over year, while mills occupancy was 98.4%, up 70 basis points [8] - Average base minimum rents for malls and outlets increased by 2.4% year over year, with mills increasing by 3.9% [9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Retailer sales per square foot for the quarter was $7.33, with occupancy costs at 13.1$944 million with a blended yield of 9%, with expectations to begin construction on additional projects soon [11] - The company announced a dividend of $2.1 per share for Q2, a year-over-year increase of 5$12.4 to $12.65 per share, reflecting cautious optimism amid tariff uncertainties [13] - Management highlighted that while sales were relatively flat, they expect to land within original guidance due to inventory levels potentially being affected by tariffs [21] Other Important Information - The company completed 12 secured loan transactions totaling approximately$2.6 billion, with a weighted average interest rate of 5.73% [12] - The company is maintaining a cautious approach to capital allocation, with a focus on long-term decisions amid macroeconomic uncertainty [78] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact of tariffs on leasing - Management noted that only one European retailer was affected by tariffs, and overall demand remains strong [17][22] Question: Retailers' inventory levels and sales trends - Management indicated that retailers have about a month to decide on inventory from China, with some reducing exposure to Chinese goods [35][36] Question: Changes in approach to tenant negotiations - Management stated that it is business as usual, with strong demand and constrained supply, despite some retailers facing challenges [41] Question: Performance of Forever 21 spaces - Over half of the Forever 21 spaces have been leased, with expectations to double the rent over the next two years [48][50] Question: Consumer sentiment and sales outlook - Management believes consumer sentiment is currently stable, but there is caution regarding tourism and its impact on sales [58][59] Question: OPI performance and tariff impacts - OPI showed improvement, with expectations for positive EBITDA despite tariff uncertainties [72] Question: Macroeconomic uncertainty and capital plans - Management confirmed a cautious approach to capital plans, with ongoing development projects but careful consideration of costs [78][80] Question: Trends in luxury tenants - Luxury tenants are performing well, with no significant pullback in leasing demand noted [120]