Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4, total revenue reached $1.1 billion, reflecting a year-over-year increase of just over 4.5% on a reported basis and over 3% on a core basis [12] - Adjusted EBITDA for Q4 was $358 million, up about 8% year-over-year, with an adjusted EBITDA margin expanding approximately 100 basis points to nearly 32% [13][14] - Adjusted EPS for Q4 was $0.90, marking a 13% increase year-over-year, contributing to a full-year adjusted EPS of $2.71, which represented over 12% growth [14][19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Intelligent Operating Solutions (IOS) segment revenue grew just over 5% on a reported basis, with core revenue growth of about 4%, driven by strong performance in professional instrumentation and gas detection [15] - Advanced Healthcare Solutions (AHS) segment revenue grew approximately 3% year-over-year, with adjusted EBITDA in this segment at $92 million and an adjusted EBITDA margin of 26% [17][18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America continued to be the strongest growth driver, with encouraging signs of improvement in Europe and Latin America [12][15] - APAC growth remained steady, while Europe showed acceleration from Q3, indicating potential positive trends [12][13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on executing the Fortive Accelerated Strategy, which includes three pillars: accelerating profitable organic growth, disciplined capital allocation, and building investor trust [4][10] - The company is initiating full-year 2026 adjusted EPS guidance of $2.90-$3.00, representing approximately 9% year-over-year growth at the midpoint [6][19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism for 2026, highlighting strong execution and growth acceleration in the second half of 2025 [5][24] - The company is committed to maintaining a disciplined approach to capital allocation, with a focus on organic growth and targeted M&A opportunities [10][24] Other Important Information - The company executed an additional $265 million in share repurchases in Q4, bringing total repurchases for the second half of the year to $1.3 billion [6][18] - Free cash flow for Q4 was approximately $315 million, with full-year free cash flow at about $930 million, maintaining a conversion rate over 100% [14][19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on Fluke's performance and demand - Management noted strong performance in Fluke, with North America as the strongest region and encouraging improvements in EMEA and LATAM, indicating solid demand overall [30][32] Question: Price contribution and guidance - Price contributed about 2% to growth in the quarter, with volume contributing roughly 1% [34] Question: First quarter expectations and organic sales growth - Management indicated that they expect reported revenue and adjusted EBITDA to follow historical trends, with a positive outlook for January [40][42] Question: AHS segment margin pressures - Management clarified that margin pressures in AHS were localized in Q4 due to strategic investments, with expectations for margin improvement moving forward [43][44] Question: IOS organic growth sources - The strong performance in IOS was attributed to effective execution of the Fortive Business System strategy, with all elements contributing positively [71][72] Question: AI enhancements in software businesses - Management highlighted that AI is seen as a meaningful accelerator for their software offerings, with strong customer demand for AI-enabled enhancements [52][53] Question: Future growth expectations for gas detection - Management expressed confidence in the gas detection business, anticipating strong performance in 2026 due to effective execution and market demand [94]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported GAAP net income per share of $0.41 for Q4 2025, down from $0.57 in the prior quarter and $0.55 in Q4 2024. For the full year, GAAP net income per share was $1.86, compared to $2.44 in 2024 [17] - Core earnings per share for Q4 2025 remained stable at $0.50, compared to $0.50 in the prior quarter but down from $0.55 a year ago. For the full year, core earnings per share were $2.01, down from $2.33 in 2024 [17] - The company generated a 10% core return on equity (ROE) for the year, consistent with historical averages [18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved record gross originations of $15.8 billion in 2025, with Q4 originations exceeding $5.8 billion, a 50% increase from Q4 2024 [26] - New investment commitments accelerated in the second half of 2025, driven by M&A and LBO activities, with about half of new originations supporting M&A-driven transactions [26][27] - The portfolio at fair value increased to $29.5 billion, a 3% increase from the prior quarter and a 10% increase year-over-year [27] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company added over 100 new borrowers in 2025, setting a new record, and ended the year with a diversified portfolio of 603 borrowers [27] - The weighted average organic EBITDA growth rate of portfolio companies was more than three times that of GDP, indicating strong performance relative to the broader economy [10] - Non-accruals at cost remained stable at 1.8%, consistent with prior levels and below historical averages [32] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company emphasized its long-term competitive advantages, including team experience, market relationships, and rigorous credit standards, which are expected to support future performance [5] - The focus on specialized industry verticals, such as software and healthcare, has led to differentiated deal flow and a 50% increase in non-sponsored originations [9] - The company plans to maintain its dividend despite potential declines in short-term interest rates, supported by a strong balance sheet and spillover income [14][24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate economic volatility and capitalize on market opportunities, particularly in the software sector [56] - The company is closely monitoring market conditions and believes it is well-positioned to benefit from any dislocations in the capital markets [56] - Management highlighted the importance of maintaining a diversified capital base to support consistent lending activities [34] Other Important Information - The company reported a total portfolio at fair value of $29.5 billion, with a net asset value of $14.3 billion, or $19.94 per share, reflecting a slight decrease from the previous quarter [19] - The company has a strong liquidity position, totaling over $6 billion, including available cash [23] - The first quarter 2026 dividend is set at $0.48 per share, payable on March 31, 2026 [24] Q&A Session Summary Question: Concerns about AI's impact on software business performance - Management expressed confidence in their software portfolio, emphasizing that they invest in foundational infrastructure software resistant to technology risk, including AI [38][40] Question: Characterization of deal flow and market conditions - Management noted that most deal flow consists of add-on acquisitions for existing portfolio companies, with limited resurgence in dividend transactions [50] Question: Market dislocation and spread widening - Management explained that recent market volatility did not lead to sustained spread widening, attributing this to the quick recovery of the broadly syndicated market [72][74] Question: Share repurchase program - Management confirmed that share repurchases are always considered based on stock trading levels, but no specific plans were disclosed [76]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - AFG's core net operating earnings were $10.29 per share for the full year 2025, with a core operating return on equity of 18.2% [5] - For Q4 2025, core net operating earnings per share were $3.65, resulting in an annualized core return on equity of 25.2% [5] - The company returned over $700 million to shareholders in 2025, including $334 million in special dividends and $274 million in regular dividends [6][10] - AFG's leverage ratio is less than 28%, with no debt maturities until 2030 [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Underwriting profits in specialty property and casualty businesses grew 41% in Q4 2025, with a combined ratio of 84.1% [12][14] - Gross written premiums for Q4 2025 were up 2%, while net written premiums were down 1% compared to Q4 2024 [14] - The property and transportation group achieved a combined ratio of 70.6% in Q4 2025, an improvement of nearly 19 points from the prior year [16] - The specialty casualty group reported a combined ratio of 96.7% in Q4 2025, 5.3 points higher than the previous year [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The annualized return on alternative investments in the P&C portfolio was 0.9% for Q4 2025, down from 4.9% in the prior year [8] - AFG's investment portfolio totaled $17.2 billion, with approximately 65% invested in fixed maturities yielding about 5.25% [7][10] - The company expects a growth in net written premiums of 3%-5% for 2026, with a combined ratio target of approximately 92.5% [23] Company Strategy and Development Direction - AFG aims to maintain a disciplined operating philosophy and capitalize on its diversified portfolio to navigate economic conditions [12][13] - The company is optimistic about several startup businesses and expects to see growth opportunities in 2026 [24] - AFG's strategy includes a focus on capital management, with plans for acquisitions, special dividends, or share repurchases [10][23] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the strength of reserves and the ability to achieve favorable development in the future [27] - The company is cautious about pockets of softening rates and competitive conditions but remains focused on profitable growth [24] - Management highlighted the potential for improved returns from the alternative investment portfolio as market conditions stabilize [63] Other Important Information - AFG declared a special dividend of $1.50 per share, payable on February 25, 2026 [9] - The company has returned $4.7 billion in special dividends since 2021 [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: What does the 2026 business plan assume in terms of rates? - Management indicated that they expect to continue achieving good price increases where needed, with no specific amount identified for prior development in the combined ratio [27][29] Question: Was there a change in loss picks for the casualty underlying loss ratio? - Management noted continued caution around social inflation-exposed businesses and adjustments in loss picks, particularly in California workers' compensation [30][32] Question: What drove the inflection in pricing in the lender-placed business? - Management expressed no concerns about political risks and noted that pricing can vary based on client property types, with expectations of low single-digit growth in the business [53][56] Question: Are the social inflation-related businesses stabilized? - Management indicated that corrective steps have been taken, and there is potential for mid-single-digit growth in these businesses moving forward [60] Question: What are the expectations for the alternative investment portfolio? - Management expects a return to historical levels of returns on alternatives, contingent on improved market conditions for multifamily properties [63]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - AFG's Core Net Operating Earnings were $10.29 per share for the full year 2025, with a core operating return on equity of 18.2% [5] - For Q4 2025, Core Net Operating Earnings per share were $3.65, resulting in an annualized core return on equity of 25.2% [5] - The company returned over $700 million to shareholders in 2025, including $334 million in special dividends and $274 million in regular dividends [6][10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Underwriting profits in specialty property and casualty businesses grew 41% in Q4 2025, with a combined ratio of 84.1%, an improvement of nearly 5 points from the prior year [14] - Gross written premiums for Q4 2025 were up 2%, while net written premiums were down 1% compared to the same period in 2024 [14] - The Property and Transportation Group achieved a 70.6% combined ratio in Q4 2025, an improvement of nearly 19 points from the prior year [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The annualized return on alternative investments in the P&C portfolio was 0.9% for Q4 2025, down from 4.9% in the prior year [8] - AFG's investment portfolio totaled $17.2 billion, with approximately 65% invested in fixed maturities yielding about 5.25% [7][10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - AFG aims for premium growth of 3%-5% in 2026, with a combined ratio target of approximately 92.5% [23] - The company is optimistic about several startup businesses and expects to see growth opportunities in specialty casualty and other lines [24][68] - AFG's strategy includes maintaining a disciplined focus on underwriting profitability while pursuing growth opportunities [24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the strength of reserves and the ability to navigate competitive conditions while pursuing profitable growth [24] - The company anticipates a stable crop year in 2026, which is expected to positively impact the crop insurance business [47] - Management acknowledged pockets of softening rates but remains focused on disciplined growth strategies [24] Other Important Information - AFG declared a special dividend of $1.50 per share, payable on February 25, 2026, with an aggregate amount of approximately $125 million [9] - The company has declared $55.50 per share in special dividends since 2021, totaling $4.7 billion [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: What does the 2026 business plan assume in terms of rates relative to the 5% P&C renewal pricing? - Management indicated that they do not specifically identify amounts for prior development in the combined ratio but expect favorable development based on historical trends [27] Question: Was there any change in loss picks for the casualty underlying loss ratio? - Management noted continued caution around social inflation-exposed businesses and adjustments in loss picks, particularly in California workers' compensation [30][32] Question: What drove the inflection in pricing for the lender-placed business? - Management expressed confidence in the profitability of the lender-placed business and noted that pricing can vary based on client property characteristics [53][55] Question: Are the social inflation-related businesses stabilized? - Management indicated that corrective steps have been taken, and there are opportunities for mid-single-digit growth in these businesses [60] Question: What is the outlook for the alternative investment portfolio? - Management expects a return to historical levels of 10% or better, contingent on improvements in the multifamily property market [62][63]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the 4th Quarter, revenue was $9.7 million, a 3% increase from $9.5 million in the 3rd Quarter, but a 10% decline from $10.8 million in the 4th Quarter of the previous year [6] - Gross profit margin was 72.9% in the 4th Quarter, down from 74.2% in the same quarter last year, primarily due to inventory write-offs [7] - Net loss for the 4th Quarter was $588,000, or $0.05 per diluted share, compared to net income of $176,000, or $0.02 per diluted share in the 4th Quarter of 2024 [8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Reorders as a percentage of total orders increased in the largest market compared to 2024, and sales of Q-rated product bundles rose 10% for the Full Year [3] - The company saw growth in Taiwan and Peru during the 4th Quarter, with Japan and Colombia achieving strong increases throughout the year [3] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue in the primary market of Greater China increased by 2% compared to the 3rd Quarter [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on improving operational efficiency through restructuring initiatives, including relocating 40% of product sourcing from America to East Asia to reduce tariff uncertainty [4] - The company plans to celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2026 with special programs and events, aiming to leverage this milestone for renewed momentum [4] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to support goals in an evolving global environment, emphasizing a strong product portfolio and renewed focus on execution [5] - The company expects to realize significant cost savings of approximately $1.5 million during 2026, positioning itself towards profitability and improved performance [10] Other Important Information - Total cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities were $28.9 million at December 31, down from $32 million at September 30, primarily due to dividend payments and cash used in operations [9] - The board of directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.10 per share, payable on February 27 to stockholders of record as of February 17 [10] Summary of Q&A Session - The call concluded without a Q&A session, as indicated by the operator's closing remarks [12]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the 4th Quarter, revenue was $9.7 million, a 3% increase from $9.5 million in the 3rd Quarter, but a 10% decline from $10.8 million in the 4th Quarter of the previous year [6] - Gross profit margin was 72.9% in the 4th Quarter, down from 74.2% in the same quarter last year, primarily due to inventory write-offs [7] - Net loss for the 4th Quarter was $588,000, or $0.05 per diluted share, compared to net income of $176,000, or $0.02 per diluted share in the 4th Quarter of 2024 [8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Reorders as a percentage of total orders increased in the largest market compared to 2024, and sales of curated product bundles rose 10% for the Full Year [3] - Commissions expenses as a percentage of net sales for the 4th Quarter were 40.3%, down from 41.9% a year ago [7] - Selling general and administrative expenses were $3.8 million for the 4th Quarter, a slight decrease from $3.9 million a year ago [8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue in the primary market of Greater China increased by 2% compared to the 3rd Quarter, with notable growth in Taiwan and Peru during the 4th Quarter [6][3] - Japan and Colombia achieved strong increases throughout the year, contributing positively to overall performance [3] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on improving operational efficiency through restructuring initiatives, including relocating 40% of product sourcing to East Asia to reduce tariff uncertainty [4] - The company anticipates realizing approximately $1.5 million in annualized cost savings during 2026, which is expected to enhance profitability and performance [10] - Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2026, the company plans special programs and events to leverage this milestone for renewed momentum [4] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to support goals in an evolving global environment, emphasizing a strong product portfolio and renewed focus on execution [5] - The management highlighted the importance of member engagement and ongoing demand for core products as key drivers for future growth [3] Other Important Information - Total cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities were $28.9 million at the end of the year, down from $32 million at the end of the previous quarter [9] - The company paid out $9.2 million in dividends for the full year of 2025, reaffirming its commitment to returning capital to stockholders [9][10] Q&A Session Summary - No specific questions or answers were provided in the content, thus this section is not applicable.

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - AFG's core net operating earnings were $10.29 per share for the full year 2025, with a core operating return on equity of 18.2% [5] - For Q4 2025, core net operating earnings per share were $3.65, resulting in an annualized fourth quarter core return on equity of 25.2% [5] - The company returned over $700 million to shareholders in 2025, including $334 million in special dividends and $274 million in regular dividends [6][10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Underwriting profit in specialty property and casualty insurance grew 41% in Q4 2025, with a combined ratio of 84.1%, an improvement of nearly 5 points from the prior year [12][13] - Gross written premiums for Q4 2025 increased by 2%, while net written premiums decreased by 1% compared to the same period in 2024 [13] - The property and transportation group achieved a combined ratio of 70.6% in Q4 2025, an improvement of nearly 19 points from the prior year [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The annualized return on alternative investments in the P&C portfolio was 0.9% for Q4 2025, down from 4.9% in the prior year [8] - The company expects a growth in net written premiums of 3%-5% for 2026, with a combined ratio target of approximately 92.5% [22] Company Strategy and Development Direction - AFG aims to maintain a disciplined focus on underwriting profitability while pursuing growth opportunities in 2026 [24] - The company is optimistic about several startup businesses and expects to see progress in areas like Specialty Construction and Embedded Solutions [45] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the strength of reserves and the ability to navigate changing economic conditions [12] - The company is mindful of softening rates and competitive conditions but believes its reserve strength and healthy rate environment will support growth [24] Other Important Information - AFG's leverage ratio is less than 28%, with no debt maturities until 2030, and insurance company financial strength ratings at A+ [10] - The company declared a special dividend of $1.50 per share, payable on February 25, 2026 [9] Q&A Session Summary Question: What does the 2026 business plan assume in terms of rates relative to the 5% P&C renewal pricing? - Management indicated that they are not specifically identifying amounts for prior development but expect favorable development based on their reserving strategy [27] Question: Was there any change in loss picks for the casualty underlying loss ratio? - Management noted continued caution around social inflation-exposed businesses and adjustments in loss picks, particularly in California workers' compensation [30][31] Question: What drove the inflection in pricing in the lender-placed business? - Management stated that pricing can vary based on client property types and that the business remains extremely profitable despite some lumpiness in pricing [56] Question: Are the social inflation-related businesses stabilized? - Management indicated that corrective steps have been taken, and there is potential for mid-single-digit growth in these businesses moving forward [62] Question: What is the outlook for the alternative investment portfolio? - Management expects a return to historical levels of returns on alternatives will require a better rate environment for multifamily properties [66]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4 2025, revenue was $9.7 million, a 3% increase from $9.5 million in Q3 2025, but a 10% decline from $10.8 million in Q4 2024 [6] - Gross profit margin was 72.9% in Q4 2025, down from 74.2% in Q4 2024, primarily due to inventory write-offs [6] - Net loss for Q4 2025 was $588,000, or $0.05 per diluted share, compared to net income of $176,000, or $0.02 per diluted share in Q4 2024 [7] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales of Q-rated product bundles increased by 10% for the full year 2025, indicating strong member engagement and demand for core products [3] - Commissions expenses as a percentage of net sales for Q4 2025 were 40.3%, down from 41.9% a year ago [6] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue in the primary market of Greater China increased by 2% compared to Q3 2025, with notable growth in Taiwan and Peru during Q4 2025 [6] - Japan and Colombia also achieved strong increases throughout the year [3] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on improving operational efficiency through restructuring initiatives, including relocating 40% of product sourcing from America to East Asia [4] - The company anticipates realizing approximately $1.5 million in annualized cost savings during 2026, which is expected to enhance profitability and performance [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to support long-term goals in an evolving global environment, emphasizing a strong product portfolio and renewed focus on execution [5] - The upcoming 25th anniversary is viewed as a catalyst for renewed momentum across products and business [4] Other Important Information - Total cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities were $28.9 million at December 31, 2025, down from $32 million at September 30, 2025 [8] - The board of directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.10 per share, payable on February 27, 2026 [9] Q&A Session Summary - No specific questions or answers were provided in the content regarding the Q&A session. The call concluded without further inquiries [11]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q4, revenues increased by 1% year-over-year, with consolidated EBITDA flat compared to the previous year, and earnings per share rose by 2% to $1.37 [2][13] - For the full year, consolidated revenues grew by 5% to $5.5 billion, with adjusted EBITDA up 10% to $563 million, resulting in a margin of 10.2%, an increase of 40 basis points from the previous year [14][15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - FirstService Residential reported Q4 revenues of $563 million, an 8% increase, with EBITDA up 12% to $51.5 million, achieving a margin of 9.1% [15][16] - FirstService Brands experienced a 3% decline in Q4 revenues to $820 million, with EBITDA down 12% to $88.5 million, resulting in a margin of 10.8% [17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The restoration segment saw a 13% decline year-over-year, attributed to lower claim activity compared to the previous year, which was boosted by named storms [6][7] - The roofing segment's revenues were up slightly due to tuck-under acquisitions, but organic revenues were down over 5% due to a muted demand environment [8][9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to focus on mid-single digit organic growth across its divisions, with expectations for continued growth in the FirstService Residential segment [3][4] - The company is being patient in the current M&A environment, focusing on tuck-under acquisitions and selective opportunities rather than large platform deals [25][51] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the current economic indicators do not suggest an improved environment through 2026, with expectations for low to mid-single digit revenue growth in Q1 [10][20] - The company anticipates a modest uptick in activity due to recent winter storms, but it remains too early to quantify the impact on revenues [32][33] Other Important Information - The company announced an 11% increase in its annual dividend to $1.22 per share, reflecting strong free cash flow and a solid balance sheet [19] - Operating cash flow for Q4 was $155 million, a 33% increase year-over-year, contributing to an annual cash flow from operations of over $445 million, up 56% from the previous year [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: M&A landscape and competition - Management noted that the market is slower than 12 months ago, with fewer opportunities and high valuations remaining [23][26] Question: Capital deployment focus - The company aims to consolidate underperforming franchises and is focused on tuck-under acquisitions rather than large platform deals [25][51] Question: Margin outlook - Management indicated that margins are expected to remain flat across both segments for the year, with some headwinds anticipated in Q1 [30][62] Question: Impact of recent weather events - Management stated it is too early to quantify the impact of recent winter storms on revenues, but they expect modest growth in Q1 [32][33] Question: Competition in roofing segment - Management acknowledged intensified competition in the roofing segment, leading to compressed gross margins [50] Question: Future M&A strategy - The company remains focused on tuck-under acquisitions in roofing and is open to larger acquisitions in adjacent spaces, but is cautious about valuations [51][56]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported adjusted EPS of $9.53 and $707 million of adjusted free cash flow for the full year 2025, demonstrating the durability of its franchise [3][15] - Adjusted EBITDA margin was 16.4% for the full year, reflecting resilience despite headwinds from trade policy changes and softer consumer sentiment [3][15] - Fourth quarter adjusted EPS was $2.45, up 3% compared to the prior year, driven by higher volume and productivity [15][25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the Materials Group, reported sales increased by 5%, although organic sales were slightly down due to deflation-related price reductions [4][17] - The Solutions Group saw sales increase by approximately 1.5%, with high-value categories now representing 60% of the portfolio, which helped offset declines in base solutions [6][19] - Intelligent Labels within the enterprise-wide platform grew mid-single digits, driven by strong performance in food, logistics, and other categories [7][20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In developed markets, North America experienced low single-digit volume mix declines, while Europe delivered mid-single-digit growth [17] - Emerging markets in Asia Pacific and Latin America were up low single digits, indicating some resilience in these regions [17] - The apparel business was down roughly 7%, impacted by tariff-related uncertainties, while other categories like food and logistics showed high teens growth in Q4 [6][8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on driving growth in high-value categories, which now represent approximately 45% of total sales, and aims to expand this further [9][10] - There is a strong emphasis on innovation and digital capabilities to enhance operational productivity and customer solutions [10][11] - The company plans to maintain a disciplined capital allocation strategy while continuing to invest in productivity and innovation to strengthen market positions [11][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in returning to stronger growth despite ongoing macroeconomic challenges, with expectations for adjusted EPS growth of approximately 6% in Q1 2026 [13][25] - The company anticipates that growth in high-value categories will continue to be a key driver, with a focus on expanding customer adoption and market penetration [9][39] - Management acknowledged the need to improve organic revenue growth and is taking decisive actions to address this trajectory [9][13] Other Important Information - The company achieved its 2025 sustainability objectives, including reducing energy intensity and enabling more sustainable products [11][12] - The balance sheet remains strong, with a net debt to adjusted EBITDA ratio of 2.4, and the company returned approximately $860 million to shareholders in 2025 [16][25] Q&A Session Questions and Answers Question: Can you provide more detail on the 40 basis point drop in margin? - The drop was attributed to soft base volumes, wage inflation, and some one-time benefits in the prior year, along with the impact of extra calendar days in Q4 [28][30] Question: What are the growth expectations for Intelligent Labels in 2026? - Growth is anticipated to be above the low single digits seen in 2025, driven by increased adoption in apparel and logistics sectors [37][39] Question: How do high-value categories compare in margin to core categories? - High-value categories typically have higher variable margins than the rest of the portfolio, contributing to overall margin expansion [44][46] Question: Has the Walmart partnership increased inquiries from other grocery sellers? - Yes, the partnership has catalyzed interest from other grocery sellers, leading to a growing pipeline of inquiries [52][53] Question: What is the expected impact of temporary savings on 2026? - Temporary savings from incentive compensation in 2025 will be a headwind in 2026, similar in magnitude to the $50 million restructuring actions [55][56] Question: What is the outlook for the apparel market in 2026? - There is uncertainty due to tariff policies, but growth is expected as retailers adjust their supply chain strategies [61][63]