Essent Group (ESNT) Q1 2025 Earnings Call May 09, 2025 10:00 AM ET Speaker0 and thank you for standing by. My name is Regina, and I will be your conference operator today. At this time, I would like to welcome everyone to the Essent Group Limited First Quarter Earnings Conference Call. All lines have been placed on mute to prevent any background noise. After the speakers' remarks, there will be a question and answer session. I would now like to turn the conference over to Phil Stefano, Investor Relations. P ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a cash balance of $775 million as of the end of Q1 2025, providing an extended runway into the first half of 2028 [7][29][33] - The company has dosed over 300 patients across its pipeline, achieving more than 90% degradation with the desired efficacy and safety profile in all programs [8][29] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has brought five new molecules into the clinic since 2020 and aims to deliver 10 molecules by 2026 [7][29] - The STAT6 program is positioned as a first-in-class oral degrader targeting Th2 inflammation, with upcoming data expected in June 2025 [25][35] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company identified a market opportunity exceeding $100 billion, with only 5 million patients currently accessing advanced systemic therapies out of 160 million affected by immune inflammatory diseases [10][12] - The penetration of advanced systemic therapies in the seven major markets is only about 3%, indicating significant unmet needs [10][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company focuses on targeted protein degradation in immunology, aiming to develop oral drugs with biologic-like efficacy [6][9] - The strategy includes prioritizing high-return activities and optimizing resource allocation, leading to the decision not to advance the TYK2 degrader into clinical development [30][31][33] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating the current volatile market, highlighting the strength of their oral immunology pipeline and upcoming catalysts [28][29] - The company aims to extend its cash runway to support key inflection points, particularly for the STAT6 program [33] Other Important Information - The company achieved a $20 million preclinical milestone payment expected in Q2 2025, validating its strategy and collaboration efforts [27] - The IRAF5 program is positioned as a first-in-class oral therapy targeting autoimmune diseases, with plans to initiate Phase I testing in early 2026 [46][48] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the company's strategy regarding resource allocation? - The company decided to pause the TYK2 program to redirect resources towards higher probability success programs like STAT6 and IRAF5, extending its cash runway significantly [30][31][33] Question: What are the upcoming milestones for the STAT6 program? - The company expects to report Phase Ib data by the end of 2025 and initiate two Phase IIb studies in Q4 2025 and Q1 2026 [25][41]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported total investment income of $137 million for Q1 2025, an increase of $5.4 million or 4.1% compared to Q1 2024, but a decrease of $3.4 million or 2.4% from Q4 2024 [25] - Net asset value (NAV) per share increased by $0.38 from Q4 2024 and by $2.49 or 8.4% year-over-year, reaching a record NAV per share of $32.03 [30] - Distributable net investment income (DNII) per share for the quarter was $1.07, down $0.04 from the previous year and down $0.01 from the previous quarter [33] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The lower middle market investment activity resulted in a net increase of $57 million, while private loan investments saw a net increase of $26 million [13] - The company maintained a diversified portfolio with investments in 189 companies across various industries, with the lower middle market portfolio valued at $2.6 billion, which is 31% above the related cost basis [22][23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted limited exposure to tariffs among its lower middle market portfolio companies, estimating that around 10% to 20% have some level of exposure due to the global nature of the economy [42] - The private loan investment pipeline was characterized as average, with ongoing opportunities for growth despite a muted M&A environment [49][50] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to focus on its differentiated investment strategies and asset management business, which has shown favorable performance for ten consecutive quarters [11][14] - The company plans to utilize more debt financing to fund new investments in 2025, aiming to increase leverage while maintaining conservative levels [33] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the ability of portfolio companies to navigate current market uncertainties, including tariffs and geopolitical events [11] - The outlook for Q2 2025 is positive, with expectations for DNII of at least $1.03 per share, driven by strong underlying portfolio performance [33] Other Important Information - The company declared a supplemental dividend of $0.30 per share, marking the fifteenth consecutive quarterly supplemental dividend, and a 4% increase in regular monthly dividends for Q4 2025 [15][16] - The company closed the exit of its investment in Heritage Vet Partners, realizing a gain of over $55 million, showcasing the benefits of its lower middle market investment strategy [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: What talent exposure does the portfolio have regarding tariffs? - Management indicated that most lower middle market companies are U.S.-based, with limited exposure to tariffs, estimating around a high single-digit percentage of companies with meaningful exposure [41][42] Question: Why is the investment pipeline characterized as average? - Management noted that despite a muted M&A environment, many portfolio companies are performing well and seeking additional loans for growth, contributing to an average pipeline [50][51] Question: Is there concern about variability in non-recurring income items? - Management acknowledged the variability of dividend income but expressed confidence in the strong performance of portfolio companies, expecting continued good dividend income in the near term [58] Question: What are the expectations for MSC Advisor's growth and earnings run rate? - Management indicated that future growth will depend on capital deployment at MSC Income Fund, with base management fees expected to rise with increased investment activity [81]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported distributable earnings (DE) of $156 million or $0.45 per share, while GAAP net income was $112 million or $0.33 per share [5] - The company committed $2.3 billion towards new investments, marking the highest quarter in nearly three years [5] - The overall loan book grew by $859 million, reaching $14.5 billion at quarter end [6][23] - The CECL reserve decreased by $26 million to $456 million, representing 4.2% of the lending and REO portfolios [9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Commercial and residential lending contributed DE of $179 million or $0.51 per share, with $1.4 billion of loans originated [6] - The residential lending portfolio ended the quarter at $2.4 billion, with repayments at par [10] - The investing and servicing segment contributed DE of $50 million or $0.14 per share, with a servicing portfolio of $9.6 billion [12] - Infrastructure lending saw a record commitment of $677 million, with a portfolio of $2.8 billion at quarter end [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted that the CMBS single asset single borrower market has pulled back, creating opportunities for well-capitalized lenders [16] - The company has seen a significant increase in debt and equity deals in the market, with 50% more deals compared to the same period last year [16] - The company expects to maintain a strong origination pace, with over $1 billion already closed in the first month of the second quarter [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to achieve investment grade status and grow all investment segments, including exploring acquisitions in the residential credit space [29][36] - The focus is on three investment themes: data centers, Europe, and multifamily assets, with 70% of Q1 equity in data centers [22] - The company plans to leverage its strong balance sheet and liquidity to capitalize on market opportunities [44] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management anticipates a weakening economy but believes it will lead to lower interest rates, which could benefit the property segment [32] - The company is optimistic about transaction volumes re-accelerating and sees a favorable environment for capital deployment [33][34] - Management highlighted the importance of maintaining a disciplined growth strategy, avoiding unnecessary risks while capitalizing on opportunities [82] Other Important Information - The company has a current liquidity of $1.5 billion, excluding potential liquidity from asset sales and refinancings [14] - The adjusted debt to undepreciated equity ratio ended the quarter at 2.25x, indicating a strong capital position [15] - The company has over $650 million in reserves for its CRE lending book, which is expected to lead to lower reserves and higher earnings in the future [24] Q&A Session Summary Question: Progress on resolving nonperforming loans - Management indicated progress on resolving nonperforming loans, with expectations to sell certain apartment deals at their basis this year [49] Question: Opportunities in residential credit - Management acknowledged the potential in residential credit and is exploring opportunities to re-enter the market, including the possibility of acquiring an originator [70] Question: Corporate M&A outlook - Management expressed optimism about potential M&A activity in the sector, noting that some companies may be under pressure to consolidate [76] Question: Timing of loan closings and interest income - Management expects an increase in interest income in Q2 due to a strong pipeline and significant loan closings at the end of Q1 [80] Question: Subordinate debt opportunities - Management indicated plans to explore opportunities in subordinate debt, including originating mezzanine loans and participating in B pieces [84]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for Q2 fiscal 2025 was $571.7 million, representing a 54% increase year-over-year [14] - Adjusted EBITDA grew by 135% to $69.3 million, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 12.1%, up from 7.9% in the same quarter last year [17] - Net income was $4.2 million, compared to a net loss of $1.1 million in the same quarter last year [16] - General and administrative (G&A) expenses as a percentage of total revenue decreased to 8.2% from 9.7% year-over-year [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The revenue mix for the quarter included 7% organic revenue growth and 47% from recent acquisitions [15] - The company reported a project backlog of $2.84 billion, indicating strong demand for services [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company continues to benefit from healthy federal and state project funding in the Sunbelt states, with no signs of degradation in market conditions [9] - The IIJA (Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act) is expected to provide significant funds that have not yet been deployed, supporting a healthy bidding environment [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on both organic and acquisitive growth, with a target of 15% to 20% annual top-line growth and 50 basis points EBITDA expansion per year through margin levers [12] - Recent acquisitions, including PRI in Tennessee, are expected to enhance the company's market share and operational capabilities [6][7] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the ongoing operational performance and the ability to maintain a healthy bidding environment despite broader macroeconomic uncertainties [22][23] - The company is optimistic about the growth opportunities in Tennessee and other Southeastern states, driven by favorable economic conditions [7][11] Other Important Information - Capital expenditures for Q2 were $41.4 million, with total expected capital expenditures for fiscal 2025 in the range of $130 million to $140 million [20] - The company aims to reduce its debt to trailing twelve months EBITDA ratio to approximately 2.5 times in the next four quarters [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Are there any project delays or cancellations due to macroeconomic uncertainty? - Management reported no significant delays, stating that business is operating as usual with a healthy bid sheet in commercial markets [22][23] Question: What are the margin differentials in recent acquisitions? - The management highlighted that the recent acquisitions, including PRI, have higher margin profiles and emphasized the importance of strong management teams for future growth [24][25] Question: How is capital allocation prioritized in 2025? - The company plans to pay down debt while also pursuing smart acquisitions, maintaining a focus on growth [32] Question: What is the outlook for organic growth and market conditions? - Management indicated that organic growth is expected to be strong, supported by ongoing bidding activity and market conditions [58][60] Question: Are there any inflation-related impacts from tariffs? - Management stated that tariffs have not significantly impacted the supply chain or costs, as most materials are sourced domestically [52] Question: How does the backlog compare to recognized profit margins? - Management noted that backlog margins remain healthy and that crews often find ways to grow margins during project execution [74] Question: What is the company's strategy for vertical integration? - The company continues to pursue vertical integration through both acquisitions and organic growth, focusing on services and infrastructure [77][78]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported first quarter earnings of $0.83 per share, an increase from $0.62 per share in the same quarter of the previous year, reflecting a strong start to 2025 [17] - Earnings for the quarter accounted for more than 25% of the company's earnings guidance midpoint for 2025, reaffirming the guidance range of $3.15 to $3.25 per share [5][19] - The increase in earnings was driven by higher revenue requirements from capital investments, despite negative temperature impacts on electric and gas sales [17][18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has secured energy supply agreements (ESAs) totaling 2.1 gigawatts of demand from three major data center developments, representing a greater than 30% increase in peak demand [8][9] - The capital expenditure (CapEx) plan has been updated to reflect a nearly 26% increase from 18 months ago, translating to a forecasted investment compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of nearly 11% from 2024 to 2028 [9][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is experiencing strong interest in economic development within its service areas in Iowa and Wisconsin, with ongoing efforts to support growth through new energy supply agreements [9][12] - The company has successfully sold existing capacity into the recent MISO capacity auction, which is expected to benefit customer bills [20][76] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on an "all of the above" approach to new generation resources, including a mix of wind, batteries, and natural gas, to maintain a balanced energy resource mix [15] - The updated capital plan includes significant investments in natural gas generation to meet the growing demand from data centers, with a focus on enhancing reliability and affordability [10][72] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving 2025 earnings objectives while advancing key strategic priorities, emphasizing the importance of supporting economic development [5][6] - The company is proactively managing risks related to potential changes in tax credits and tariffs, with a focus on maintaining a strong balance sheet and investment-grade credit ratings [24][52] Other Important Information - The company has completed nearly all planned safe harbor activities to preserve tax credits for future energy storage and renewable projects expected to be placed into service through 2028 [20] - The company is committed to ensuring that all individual customer rates achieve a win-win for existing customers, new customers, and shareholders [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: Timeline for converting mature opportunities to contracts and breakdown of serving those opportunities - Management indicated that they have high confidence in converting mature opportunities into contracts and are using existing resources to accelerate load growth [34][35] Question: Impact of safe harboring on the ability to go back for a rate case in Iowa - Management clarified that they are focused on activities to avoid the need to go back for a rate case and are advocating for beneficial legislative provisions [38][39] Question: Long-term EPS CAGR outlook - Management reaffirmed a long-term EPS CAGR of 5% to 7%, with current plans indicating potential for growth towards the top end of that range starting in 2027 [45][46] Question: Details on the CapEx increase - The increase in CapEx was primarily associated with natural gas generation to meet the peak demand from data center opportunities [72] Question: Impact of MISO capacity auction on consumer bills - Management stated that they are well positioned to utilize proceeds from the auction to help customer bills, contrasting with other entities that may face challenges [76] Question: Regulatory initiatives and filings in Iowa and Wisconsin - Management discussed ongoing regulatory filings for new generation resources and the potential for maintaining flat base rates through growth and cost reduction [60][61]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported an average production of 81,000 BOE per day, with a revenue of $253 million, where oil contributed 49%, gas 33%, and NGLs 18% [25][26] - The net debt to EBITDA ratio improved from 1.0 times at the end of 2024 to 0.7 times at the end of Q1 2025 [6][23] - Projected interest expense for 2025 is expected to decrease by $22 million due to debt refinancing [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The production mix for the quarter was 24% oil, 53% natural gas, and 23% NGLs [25] - The company plans to shift its drilling focus towards natural gas, with a projected increase in natural gas production while keeping overall barrel oil equivalent flat [7][8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Oil prices have recently dipped into the $50 range, impacting the company's strategy to focus on natural gas drilling [7] - The company maintains a strong position in the natural gas market, with a volume mix of 54% natural gas projected for 2025 [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company emphasizes four strategic pillars: maintaining financial strength, disciplined execution, disciplined reinvestment rate, and maximizing cash distributions [3][4] - The company aims to keep its reinvestment rate below 50% of operating cash flow to optimize distributions to unitholders [4][12] - The recent acquisition of XTO assets is expected to enhance the company's drilling opportunities and production capabilities [10][17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges the challenging market environment but believes the company is well-positioned to navigate through commodity cycles [7][23] - The company anticipates double-digit growth in natural gas production in 2026, driven by increased drilling activity in the Deep Anadarko Basin [7][8] Other Important Information - The company has distributed over $1 billion back to unitholders since inception, with a current distribution of $0.79 per unit, resulting in a 20% yield [16] - The company has made 21 acquisitions since early 2018, spending over $2 billion, focusing on cash-flowing properties at discounted prices [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on the recent acquisition and its impact? - The acquisition adds significant acreage but only produces about 1,600 BOE per day. It includes 1 million acres across various regions, primarily in the Greater Anadarko Basin [32][34] Question: What is the strategy regarding the reinvestment rate and rig deployment? - The company plans to maintain a reinvestment rate below 50%. Currently, two rigs will be operational, with a potential third rig added later in the year depending on cash flow [40][42] Question: How does the company view the oil to gas ratio in future development? - The company will prioritize gas drilling when gas prices are favorable compared to oil, with a focus on maintaining high rates of return [48][49] Question: What are the expectations for natural gas prices and production in 2026? - The company expects significant growth in gas production in 2026, with a projected increase of over 20% in gas volumes while oil production may decrease slightly [65]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - BKV reported a net loss of $79 million or a loss of $0.93 per diluted share for Q1 2025, while adjusted net income was $35 million or a positive $0.41 per diluted share after removing unrealized derivative losses [27] - Combined adjusted EBITDAX was just over $100 million, with $90 million from upstream operations and $10 million from the Power joint venture [26][30] - Accrued capital expenditures for the quarter were $58 million, significantly below the low end of the guidance range of $75 million [27] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The upstream business produced 761 million cubic feet equivalent per day, exceeding the midpoint of guidance, with development CapEx spending at $48 million, 26% below the midpoint of the guided range [13][14] - The Power joint venture's adjusted EBITDA was $20 million for the quarter, with BKV's implied 50% share being $10 million, driven by higher pricing due to cold weather [24] - The carbon capture business is on track with significant milestones, including a partnership with Comstock Resources and a $500 million investment commitment from Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners [10][11][20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - ERCOT revised its 2031 load forecast higher by 68 gigawatts, a 45% increase from 2024 projections, primarily driven by data centers [23] - Power prices averaged $54.52 per megawatt hour, with an average realized spark spread of $25.39 per megawatt hour [25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - BKV is focused on vertical integration across its four business lines: upstream, midstream, carbon capture, and power generation, aiming to create premium margins and differentiated products [5] - The company is leveraging its position in the Barnett Shale, which is experiencing a renaissance, to optimize capital expenditures and enhance operational efficiencies [12][13] - BKV aims to capitalize on the growing demand for decarbonized energy solutions, particularly in the context of data centers and the broader energy transition [11][20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the robustness of the 45Q tax credit and the bipartisan support for carbon capture initiatives, which are expected to drive growth in the CCUS sector [4][43] - The company anticipates continued strong demand for natural gas and power, particularly in Texas, driven by economic development and the expansion of data centers [8][23] - Management remains cautious about macroeconomic headwinds, including inflation and potential tariffs, but believes in the resilience of its business model [5][30] Other Important Information - BKV's cash and cash equivalents at the end of Q1 were approximately $15 million, with a net leverage ratio of less than 0.7 times [28] - The company has a strong balance sheet and increased its borrowing base to $850 million, reflecting confidence in its financial position [29] Q&A Session Summary Question: Thoughts on the resiliency of the 45Q tax credit and momentum behind CCUS projects - Management believes the 45Q tax credit is robust and enjoys bipartisan support, which is critical for energy competitiveness in the U.S. [43][44] - There is strong momentum in carbon capture, particularly for natural gas processing projects, with BKV positioned as a leader in this space [45][46] Question: CapEx for CCUS and potential changes - Management indicated that while the internal CapEx for CCUS remains unchanged, the timing may shift as they optimize capital spending with their new JV partner [54][55] Question: Upstream production growth inclination - Management reiterated a disciplined approach to capital investment, with a commitment to 2% to 3% growth in production by Q4 2025 compared to Q4 2024, while monitoring macroeconomic conditions [60][62] Question: Differences in project timing with Comstock - Management explained that the development of projects with Comstock will follow a phased approach, allowing for growth as Comstock increases production [68][70] Question: Funding mechanisms for the new JV with CIP - Management confirmed that there is an upfront capital component associated with the JV, which will be drawn down over the next 12 to 24 months as projects are deployed [82][83] Question: Willingness to pay a premium for decarbonized power and gas - Management noted that while not all customers are willing to pay a premium, there is a segment, particularly large tech companies, that are very interested in decarbonized energy solutions [85][86]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Colgate-Palmolive achieved record net sales in 2024, surpassing $20 billion for the first time, with a growth of 3.3% following an 8.3% increase in 2023 [32] - Organic sales growth was 7.4% in 2024, continuing a trend of six consecutive years of organic sales growth, aligning with the long-term target range of 3% to 5% [32] - The company reported a double-digit growth in base business earnings per share, building on high single-digit growth in 2023 [34] - Free cash flow increased by 17% in 2024, driven by strong net income and disciplined working capital management [34] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Organic sales growth was achieved across all six divisions and four categories: oral care, pet nutrition, personal care, and home care [32] - The company increased its advertising spending by 15% in 2024, following a 19% increase in 2023, while also improving the advertising to sales ratio [33] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Colgate gained global value share in the toothpaste business for the third consecutive year and also in the manual toothbrush and pet nutrition markets in the US [35] - The Colgate brand is present in nearly 60% of the world's homes, making it the most penetrated brand globally [35] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on driving innovation and delivering category-defining solutions to consumers, with significant investments in product development and marketing [31][36] - Colgate is leveraging AI and digital capabilities to enhance marketing, product innovation, and operational efficiency [40][41] - The company aims to maintain flexibility in its leadership structure to adapt to changing market conditions [17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The management acknowledged challenges in 2025 due to market volatility and economic uncertainty but expressed confidence in the company's long-term growth strategy [44] - The company remains committed to investing in brands and capabilities while navigating short-term challenges [44] Other Important Information - The company has increased its quarterly dividend rate for the 62nd consecutive year, with a further increase announced for 2025 [34] - The board recommended against two stockholder proposals regarding an independent board chairman and plastic packaging policies, citing existing governance structures and commitments [17][25] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is Colgate's investment strategy for AI? - Colgate has launched an internal AI hub for over 5,000 employees, focusing on marketing and product innovation to enhance consumer engagement and accelerate product development [46][47] Question: Is democracy good for business? - The company believes predictable environments that encourage long-term strategy and performance are beneficial for business [49] Question: Why does the board need 10 directors? - The board composition is designed to provide a range of skills and experiences, which is essential for guiding the company effectively [50][52] Question: Will in-person stockholder meetings be restarted? - The company finds virtual meetings allow greater participation and efficiency, with no decision made yet on future meeting formats [53][54] Question: Can you provide examples of product innovation? - Examples include the new Colgate Total toothpaste with enhanced preventive properties and EltaMD skin recovery sunscreen that reduces redness while providing UV protection [55][56] Question: How is inflation affecting the business? - Inflation is currently slightly below last year's levels, and the company has built a flexible supply chain to mitigate tariff impacts [57][58] Question: Will dividend increases be larger in the future? - The decision on dividend increases is made by the board based on various factors, with the company's health remaining strong [59]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q1 2025, the company reported net sales of $62.99 million, a decrease of 3.5% from $65.25 million in Q1 2024 [2][3] - The operating income improved to $11,000 in Q1 2025 from an operating loss of $857,000 in Q1 2024 [2][5] - The net loss from continuing operations was $1.58 million or $0.11 per diluted share, compared to a net loss of $2.41 million or $0.16 per diluted share in the same quarter of 2024 [3] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales of soft floor covering products outperformed hard surface products, with continued market share gains in the soft surface category [3] - Gross margins improved to $16.90 million or 26.8% of net sales, compared to $15.80 million or 24.2% of net sales in the prior year [4] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The industry is experiencing weak market conditions due to low existing home sales and lower consumer confidence [3] - The residential remodeling market continues to face a multiyear slump, with uncertainty regarding when market dynamics will change [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on creating differentiated styles for the residential market, emphasizing color, pattern, and texture [10] - Efforts are being made to minimize expenses, reduce overhead costs, and improve gross margins [12] - The company has closed on a new $75 million senior credit facility to support operations and manage costs effectively [7][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that low consumer confidence was impacted by uncertainty around tariff increases, with some industry players announcing price increases to mitigate these impacts [9] - The company believes that actions taken during the current difficult environment will position it well for an eventual market upturn [13] Other Important Information - The company has seen improvements in operations, including productivity, quality, and raw material utilization [11] - The first quarter trade show showcased 25 new styles of carpet and eight hard surface collections, which were well received [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: Is the stock buyback program still in effect? - The stock buyback program is no longer in effect as it was ceased during the latter part of the previous year [16] Question: Are there signs of consolidation in the industry? - There has not been much consolidation at the manufacturing level, although some smaller retailers have gone out of business [17] Question: Have buying habits changed between big box stores and boutique retailers? - Premium products are performing better than the market overall, with the Fabrica brand doing exceptionally well [18]