Sign in

    Andrew Strelzik • BMO Capital Markets

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to JBS N.V. (JBS) leadership

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to JBS N.V. (JBS) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik from BMO Capital Markets asked about the outlook for Brazil beef amid U.S. tariffs and the company's U.S. prepared foods strategy, including the expected volume increase from new investments and the approach to M&A versus organic growth.

    Answer

    Global CEO Gilberto Tomazoni stated the tariff impact on Brazil beef is immaterial for JBS overall due to its global platform. Wesley Batista Filho, CEO of JBS Foods USA, estimated new projects would increase U.S. prepared foods capacity by 25-30% and confirmed the strategy involves both building new plants and evaluating M&A.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Texas Roadhouse Inc (TXRH) leadership

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Texas Roadhouse Inc (TXRH) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik of BMO Capital Markets asked about Texas Roadhouse's current price gaps against its competitors compared to historical levels. He also requested clarification on the menu pricing that will be in effect for the upcoming quarters.

    Answer

    CEO Gerald Morgan stated that the company feels comfortable with its value proposition and its price gap versus competitors, noting that value includes portion size and execution, not just price. Michael Bailen, Senior Director & Head of IR, clarified the pricing cadence: 2.3% in Q3, rising to 3.1% in Q4 after a 1.7% increase is added and an older 0.9% increase rolls off.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Texas Roadhouse Inc (TXRH) leadership • Q1 2025

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik asked if Texas Roadhouse is beginning to identify more tangible operational benefits, such as improved throughput or labor efficiency, from its ongoing kitchen technology rollout.

    Answer

    CEO Gerald Morgan responded that while they are learning from the new systems, it is too early to discuss measurable efficiencies until the rollout is fully complete. He emphasized that employees love the digital kitchen for workflow management and the new guest system for optimizing floor plans and wait times.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Texas Roadhouse Inc (TXRH) leadership • Q4 2024

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik of BMO Capital Markets asked about the off-premise business, specifically the to-go channel, and whether the company has plans to focus on it as an incremental growth driver in 2025.

    Answer

    Executive Michael Bailen noted that to-go demand remains strong, with its mix percentage increasing year-over-year to 13% in Q4 as operators improve execution. CFO David Monroe added that to-go sales saw a further increase in the first seven weeks of 2025, likely due to factors like illness preventing in-person dining. CEO Gerald Morgan clarified they are holding their position on delivery, limiting it to Jaggers, most Bubba's, and one Texas Roadhouse for now.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Primo Brands Corp (PRMB) leadership

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Primo Brands Corp (PRMB) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik of BMO Capital Markets inquired about the progress of cross-selling initiatives within the direct delivery channel, asking about current availability and customer uptake.

    Answer

    CEO Robbert Rietbroek described the company as being 'halfway in that journey.' He noted they have introduced regional spring water case packs and expanded Mountain Valley availability on legacy Primo trucks but have not yet fully rolled out all offerings, such as 5-gallon Saratoga water. He added that results are encouraging, even as the company simultaneously works to simplify its overall product portfolio.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Primo Brands Corp (PRMB) leadership • Q1 2025

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik asked about the durability of the Home and Office Delivery (HOD) business in a challenging consumer environment and requested any available color on customer retention or churn.

    Answer

    CFO David Hass confirmed the HOD business remains in a good position, with no significant slippage in customer accounts and a slight increase in retention post-merger. He highlighted that growth is supported by digital platform consolidation and the cross-selling of premium and regional spring water brands to the legacy Primo Water customer base, which improves route efficiency.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Primo Brands Corp (PRMB) leadership • Q4 2024

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik questioned the outlook for base business margins excluding synergies in 2025 and asked for the expected cadence of synergy realization throughout the year.

    Answer

    CFO David Hass explained that base margins are expected to see modest expansion as the two legacy businesses are still operating in silos, with significant margin expansion in 2025 coming directly from synergies. He clarified that authentic margin expansion from volume leverage will be more apparent post-2025 once the networks are fully integrated. He also noted synergy capture would be muted in Q1 and ramp up from Q2 through Q4.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Primo Brands Corp (PRMB) leadership • Q4 2024

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik asked for insight into the base business margins excluding synergies for 2025, noting the guidance implies flattish performance, and also requested details on the expected cadence of synergy capture during the year.

    Answer

    CFO David Hass explained that base margins are expected to be relatively stable in 2025 as the legacy businesses are still being integrated. He stated that significant margin expansion will occur as synergies are realized and volume moves through the newly consolidated network. He later noted synergy capture would be muted in Q1 and ramp from Q2 through Q4.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Papa John's International Inc (PZZA) leadership

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Papa John's International Inc (PZZA) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik from BMO Capital Markets asked what specific initiatives drove the Q2 outperformance in North America and what provides confidence in a reacceleration for the rest of the year despite a soft start to Q3.

    Answer

    President & CEO Todd Penegor attributed the Q2 success to a combination of factors: the barbell strategy, new innovation like Cheddar Crust, the permanent addition of Shaq-a-Roni, and foundational CRM and loyalty program enhancements. For the second half, he expressed confidence based on a strong innovation pipeline, including a new shareable pizza format and the "Grand Papa" pizza in test, which will help navigate the more cautious consumer environment and improve comps sequentially.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Papa John's International Inc (PZZA) leadership • Q3 2024

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik asked about the sequencing of the company's numerous strategic initiatives and which areas are expected to drive the most significant near-term impact.

    Answer

    President and CEO Todd Penegor prioritized modernizing the tech stack as 'job one,' specifically revamping the loyalty program to drive repeat purchases, which has shown encouraging test results. He noted that near-term gains will also come from a balanced marketing calendar, while long-term wins will stem from improving core pizza quality, reducing operational complexity, and adopting a 'challenger brand mindset.'

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Sunopta Inc (STKL) leadership

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Sunopta Inc (STKL) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik of BMO Capital Markets inquired about the new fruit snacks manufacturing line, asking for details on the customer mix and ramp-up timeline. He also questioned the adjusted gross margin progression for the second half of the year, focusing on the impact and recovery from tariff-related headwinds.

    Answer

    CEO Brian Kocher clarified that the investment is for a new manufacturing line, not a new plant, which is already oversubscribed with demand from existing customers. He stated that aseptic capacity is sufficient for 2026 growth, with a potential new line needed for 2027. Kocher also explained that while tariffs created a timing lag, the impact was covered on the EBITDA line, and the company remains on track with its margin improvement plan.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Sunopta Inc (STKL) leadership • Q1 2025

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik inquired about the drivers behind the accelerating category growth and business pipeline amid a challenging consumer environment, and also asked for details on the company's strategy for passing through potential tariff costs.

    Answer

    Executive Brian Kocher explained that growth is fueled by the non-discretionary nature of plant-based beverages, the outperformance of their key customers, and the company's ability to capitalize on newly created capacity. Regarding tariffs, Kocher stated that they are treated like other raw material cost changes, with a model to pass through substantially all incremental costs to customers, with whom conversations began in January.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Sunopta Inc (STKL) leadership • Q4 2024

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik inquired about the sustainability of mid-single-digit growth in the shelf-stable plant-based category, considering potential consumer softness, and asked about capital allocation priorities now that the company has reached its leverage target.

    Answer

    CEO Brian Kocher expressed confidence in category growth, citing strong performance in club and foodservice channels, enduring usage occasions, and the strength of the fruit snacks business. CFO Greg Gaba stated that given current interest rates, the best use of free cash flow in 2025 is to continue paying down debt, establishing a new, lower leverage target of 2.5x.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Sunopta Inc (STKL) leadership • Q2 2024

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik from BMO Capital Markets asked if the accelerated revenue growth and margin initiatives would pull forward the timeline for achieving the company's mid-term EBITDA targets. He also inquired about the tone of customer conversations amidst concerns about the broader consumer environment.

    Answer

    Executive Brian Kocher stated that while the accelerated growth increases their confidence in hitting the mid-term targets, they are focused on communicating what they can see through the end of the current year and are not changing the timeline at this point. Regarding customer conversations, Kocher noted that every category they operate in—plant-based beverages, protein shakes, and fruit snacks—is growing. He explained that their innovation goes beyond new products to include new pack sizes and logistical efficiencies, which helps customers win.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Archer-Daniels-Midland Co (ADM) leadership

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Archer-Daniels-Midland Co (ADM) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik of BMO Capital Markets asked for more detail on the expected earnings split between Q3 and Q4 2025 and whether the Q4 run rate could serve as a reliable starting point for 2026 forecasts.

    Answer

    CEO Juan Luciano and CFO Monish Patolawala explained that due to the timing of recent favorable biofuel policy updates, most of the positive impact will be seen in Q4, leading to a Q3/Q4 earnings split of roughly one-third to two-thirds. Patolawala cautioned that year-over-year comparisons will be affected by significant insurance proceeds in the prior year's second half. Luciano noted that while the 2025 exit rate often informs the 2026 entry rate, it is too early to annualize the Q4 forecast.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Archer-Daniels-Midland Co (ADM) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik of BMO Capital Markets asked for more clarity on the expected earnings split between Q3 and Q4 2025 and inquired if the Q4 run rate could serve as a reliable starting point for 2026 forecasts.

    Answer

    CEO Juan Luciano indicated a back-half earnings split favoring Q4, driven by improved crush margins and the Decatur East plant's return. CFO Monish Patolawala clarified the split would be approximately one-third in Q3 and two-thirds in Q4, cautioning analysts to factor in prior-year insurance proceeds and potential ethanol softness. Both executives suggested it was too early to annualize the Q4 run rate for a 2026 forecast.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Archer-Daniels-Midland Co (ADM) leadership • Q1 2025

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik followed up on the RVO, asking if ADM is assuming a specific number or range and what the financial impact would be if crush margins do not recover in the second half.

    Answer

    CEO Juan Luciano mentioned the industry's ask is around 5.2 billion gallons for biomass-based diesel and that the administration understands its importance. CFO Monish Patolawala quantified the risk, stating that if replacement margins did not improve by year-end, it would represent a $0.50 per share headwind to earnings.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Archer-Daniels-Midland Co (ADM) leadership • Q4 2024

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik inquired about ADM's outlook for vegetable and soybean oil demand following the 45Z guidance, and asked about the expected first-half versus second-half earnings split for the year.

    Answer

    CEO Juan Luciano described the 45Z guidance as constructive but noted uncertainty remains until it is finalized. He anticipates a challenging first half due to excess crush capacity and policy ambiguity, but expects margins to improve in the second half as regulatory clarity emerges and strong fundamental demand from livestock and global biofuel mandates takes hold. This will create a different first-half/second-half earnings pattern than in typical years.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Archer-Daniels-Midland Co (ADM) leadership • Q3 2024

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik asked for an explanation of the recent decline in U.S. crush margins and what it signals for the future. He also questioned if the current earnings base, excluding one-time items, could support growth in 2025 given ADM's internal productivity actions.

    Answer

    Chair and CEO Juan Luciano attributed the crush margin pressure to a combination of high global supply from Argentina, Brazil, and the U.S., coupled with regulatory uncertainty in the biofuels market. He stated that ADM is focusing on controllable factors like productivity, cost, and cash management. Both Luciano and EVP and CFO Monish Patolawala emphasized that it was too early to provide a 2025 forecast but that the immediate priority is executing on the basics of cost, cash, and capital.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Tyson Foods Inc (TSN) leadership

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Tyson Foods Inc (TSN) leadership • Q3 2025

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik of BMO Capital Markets asked about the expected magnitude of the beef herd recovery compared to prior cycles and its implications for long-term profit potential. He also sought quantification of efficiency gains in Prepared Foods and Chicken.

    Answer

    Group President Brady Stewart noted that forecasting the beef cycle is challenging due to its prolonged nature and resilient demand, making it difficult to gauge how mid-cycle profitability will compare to the past. President & CEO Donnie King highlighted that the beef team has removed over $100 million in controllable costs this year. Regarding efficiencies, Stewart confirmed a sustained process is in place for Prepared Foods, while King spoke broadly about an enterprise-wide focus on operational excellence.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Tyson Foods Inc (TSN) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik of BMO Capital Markets sought more detail on the uncertainties and investments factored into the Chicken segment's outlook. He also asked if the company has observed any changes in export trade flows related to tariffs.

    Answer

    CFO Curt Calaway confirmed an incremental investment of around $100 million in FY25 for the Chicken segment, weighted to the second half. An executive clarified the guidance reflects being at or above the midpoint of the range. Regarding tariffs, CEO Donnie King stated that while short-term disruptions are possible, they do not expect global protein consumption to change and have factored potential impacts into their guidance.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Tyson Foods Inc (TSN) leadership • Q1 2025

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik of BMO Capital Markets questioned the drivers for the Prepared Foods guidance, including pricing and productivity, and asked why the lower end of the Chicken segment's guidance was not raised despite a strong Q1.

    Answer

    Kyle Narron, Group President of Prepared Foods, expressed confidence in meeting guidance by focusing on distribution growth, innovation, and operational optimization. Regarding the Chicken segment, Wes Morris, Group President of Poultry, stated that management feels good about the midpoint of the guidance and that hitting the low end would require a major extraneous event, such as significant weather or bird health issues.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Tyson Foods Inc (TSN) leadership • Q4 2024

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik of BMO Capital Markets asked to quantify the potential impact of operational improvements in the Beef segment and inquired about the future of capital deployment, including the potential for increased spending or shareholder returns.

    Answer

    CFO Curt Calaway explained that while market spreads are the primary driver in Beef, improvements in controllable areas like labor and yield are meaningful for minimizing losses. On capital allocation, Calaway emphasized continued discipline to reach the leverage target of at or below 2x, with FY25 CapEx guided at $1.0-$1.2 billion. CEO Donnie King added that a key priority is improving the return on capital already invested in the business.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Pilgrims Pride Corp (PPC) leadership

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Pilgrims Pride Corp (PPC) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik asked about the reasons behind the recent year-over-year decline in pullet placements and the current state of industry production constraints. He also questioned the margin progression in the European business.

    Answer

    President & Global CEO Fabio Sandri explained the industry is focusing on a younger, more productive layer flock to combat persistent hatchability issues, which remain the primary bottleneck. He noted the industry is increasing live weights to boost production. Regarding Europe, Sandri acknowledged seasonal effects but highlighted that operational consolidation and innovation continue to drive improvements, with Q4 typically being the strongest quarter.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Pilgrims Pride Corp (PPC) leadership • Q1 2025

    Question

    Speaking on behalf of Andrew Strelzik, an analyst asked about the European business, questioning the sustainability of margin expansion and the health of the local consumer. He also asked for an outlook on the Mexico business, considering investments, market fundamentals, and potential consumer hesitation from trade chatter.

    Answer

    CEO Fabio Sandri stated that European performance growth should continue as the business shifts from integration to innovation-led expansion, supported by a consumer whose wage growth is outpacing inflation. Regarding Mexico, he highlighted long-term growth from capacity expansions, though short-term volatility remains. CFO Matt Galvanoni added that a significant negative FX impact is expected in Q2 compared to a very strong prior-year quarter.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Pilgrims Pride Corp (PPC) leadership • Q4 2024

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik asked about the drivers of the counter-seasonal improvement in Mexico and the margin outlook for 2025. He also inquired about the U.S. breast meat price outlook for the upcoming summer, given current above-average prices.

    Answer

    CEO Fabio Sandri attributed Mexico's strength to strong domestic demand and volatility in the live bird market, partly due to disease impacting supply. For the U.S., he expects continued strong demand for breast meat due to its significant price advantage over beef, which should support prices into the summer. CFO Matthew Galvanoni added context that Mexico's Q1 2025 results will be lapping a very strong 9.2% margin from Q1 2024.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Pilgrims Pride Corp (PPC) leadership • Q3 2024

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik asked about the operational and market impacts from the recent hurricanes in the Southeast and also questioned the company's capital allocation priorities given its growing cash balance and revised CapEx forecast.

    Answer

    President and CEO Fabio Sandri detailed the hurricane's impact, noting that while company facilities were largely spared, partner grower houses were severely damaged, requiring a 9-12 month rebuild. He assured that production is being rebalanced to maintain customer service. On capital allocation, Sandri emphasized growth through organic projects and potential M&A as the top priority, but also acknowledged that special dividends are being considered due to the excess cash.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Bunge Global SA (BG) leadership

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Bunge Global SA (BG) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik from BMO Capital Markets asked for clarification on Viterra's pro forma earnings, which had raised some concern, and questioned the global implications of the U.S. RVO on crush margins in other regions.

    Answer

    CEO Greg Heckman acknowledged Viterra's pre-close challenges but reaffirmed the deal's strategic rationale, emphasizing the combined company's enhanced network and strength. CFO John Neppl noted that synergies are not yet captured in pro forma numbers and expressed optimism about future cost and commercial opportunities. Regarding the RVO, Heckman stated the combined global platform is even better positioned to manage supply and demand shifts.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Bunge Global SA (BG) leadership • Q1 2025

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik asked how Bunge is managing its forward book in the current soft environment and requested help in framing a 'normal' earnings base for the business given current market disruptions.

    Answer

    CEO Greg Heckman explained that market uncertainty has pushed both farmers and customers toward more spot-based transactions, reducing the size of the forward book. CFO John Neppl noted that the current environment is more challenging than a typical mid-cycle, making it difficult to quantify a 'normal' earnings base, but cited headwinds in Merchandising and the timing of project contributions as key factors impacting the current outlook.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Bunge Global SA (BG) leadership • Q4 2024

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik asked about the risk of near-term market uncertainties lingering beyond Q1 and whether 2025 should be viewed as a trough earnings year from which the company will grow.

    Answer

    CEO Gregory Heckman confirmed the guidance calendarization (40% of earnings in H1) reflects the tough near-term environment, with improvement expected later in the year. He agreed that 2025 should be a base to build from, expressing excitement for the commercial synergies that will be unlocked once the Bunge and Viterra teams can collaborate post-merger, which will drive future growth.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Bunge Global SA (BG) leadership • Q3 2024

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik inquired about the durability of soy crush margins, the company's ability to capture them, and any adjustments to the Q4 guidance. He also asked for a high-level outlook for 2025 relative to a typical year.

    Answer

    CEO Greg Heckman noted that strong global demand for meal and oil supports crush margins, despite regional variations like challenges in Argentina. CFO John Neppl clarified that Q3's strength may have pulled about $0.15 in earnings from Q4, with the sale of the sugar JV removing another $0.15 from the Q4 forecast. For 2025, Neppl expects Refined and Specialty Oils to perform above baseline, with potential in crush, while merchandising remains below baseline.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Darden Restaurants Inc (DRI) leadership

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Darden Restaurants Inc (DRI) leadership • Q4 2025

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik from BMO Capital Markets inquired about the outlook for marketing spend in fiscal 2026 and over the long term. He also asked for an update on progress and drivers for improving speed of service.

    Answer

    President & CEO Rick Cardenas and CFO Raj Vennam indicated that marketing spend is expected to grow faster than sales by 10-20 basis points, viewed as an investment with a positive return. Regarding speed of service, Cardenas described it as being in the 'early innings' of a long-term effort to reverse an industry trend. He noted that while progress has been made and all brands are faster, it will take time to fully implement changes across the system.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Darden Restaurants Inc (DRI) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik asked for details on the drivers of the 2.5% total inflation outlook and the expected margin progression for the rest of the year. He also inquired about the performance of Olive Garden's Never Ending Pasta Bowl, particularly the impact of protein add-ons.

    Answer

    Executive Rajesh Vennam detailed that H2 inflation will be higher than H1, with Q4 being the peak, driven by beef, chicken, and seafood turning inflationary. Executive Ricardo Cardenas noted the pasta promotion's protein buy-ups and refills were at record levels and exceeded expectations, contributing to Olive Garden's positive mix, but he did not quantify the specific sales impact.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Dave & Buster's Entertainment Inc (PLAY) leadership

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Dave & Buster's Entertainment Inc (PLAY) leadership • Q1 2025

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik from BMO Capital Markets questioned which specific initiatives were the biggest contributors to the comp improvement and asked if the company needed to reinvest costs back into the business.

    Answer

    CFO Darin Harper credited improved traffic, driven by more effective marketing and the popular Eat & Play Combo, for the sales momentum. Interim CEO Kevin Sheehan stated that he does not see a need for major cost reinvestment, emphasizing a strategy of spending 'smarter' on tested initiatives and maintaining lean management, noting that top-line growth will improve profitability.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Dave & Buster's Entertainment Inc (PLAY) leadership • Q3 2024

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik from BMO Capital Markets asked if the company has considered temporarily slowing its new store opening pace to focus on improving core business comps and cash flow. He also asked about the timeline for realizing the full benefits of the marketing optimization initiative, which was previously identified as a major opportunity.

    Answer

    CFO Darin Harper stated that there are no plans to slow new store openings, citing their 'phenomenal returns' and the company's high confidence in its core strategic initiatives. On marketing, he admitted the area has been challenging and that building the foundational data and analytics infrastructure took longer than expected. He explained that after overcorrecting to a nearly all-digital media mix, the company is now rebalancing its spend and expects to see the benefits of these new strategies in Q4 and into the next year.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Ingredion Inc (INGR) leadership

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Ingredion Inc (INGR) leadership • Q1 2025

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik from BMO Capital Markets questioned why the strong Q1 earnings beat was not fully reflected in the raised full-year guidance. He also asked about the volume growth outlook for the remainder of the year, given tougher comparisons and consumer uncertainty.

    Answer

    CFO Jim Gray stated the cautious guidance reflects global uncertainty, potential supply chain disruptions, and incremental costs from trade dislocations, including upcoming tariff deadlines. CEO Jim Zallie added that while THS volumes are strong, driven by affordable formulating trends, the company is monitoring unemployment and food inflation. He noted the guidance is 'appropriately cautious' given the unknown macroeconomic backdrop.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Ingredion Inc (INGR) leadership • Q4 2024

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik noted that the low end of the Texture and Healthful Solutions profit guidance for 2025 is below the company's long-term 8-10% growth algorithm and asked for the reasons. He also inquired about the company's portfolio positioning regarding potential risks from tariffs, trade, and food regulations.

    Answer

    EVP and CFO Jim Gray attributed the cautious low end of the guidance to potential foreign exchange headwinds from a strong U.S. dollar, particularly in key growth markets, but affirmed the 8-10% algorithm remains the long-term target. President and CEO Jim Zallie and Jim Gray addressed trade risks by highlighting Ingredion's local-for-local manufacturing footprint in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, which mitigates many tariff impacts. They confirmed they are actively scenario planning for any potential changes.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Brinker International Inc (EAT) leadership

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Brinker International Inc (EAT) leadership • Q3 2025

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik asked about the evolution of future investments, particularly in labor, inquiring what operators are asking for to keep up with traffic growth and where the biggest opportunities lie.

    Answer

    CFO Mika Ware described it as a journey, moving from initial staffing increases to now making more strategic investments in hours to improve guest and team member experiences. CEO Kevin Hochman added that all investments are tied to growing the business and improving four-wall economics, and decisions are made in partnership with field leadership to ensure they accelerate the business.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Brinker International Inc (EAT) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik from BMO Capital Markets asked if there are any other large-scale operational investments being considered beyond fiscal 2025, given the sustained strength in traffic trends.

    Answer

    CFO Mika Ware explained that the leadership team constantly evaluates investment opportunities but feels the current plans, including the accelerated TurboChef rollout, are the right ones for now. CEO Kevin Hochman added that the business is evolving rapidly with the traffic influx. While there is no line of sight to another major investment right now, they remain agile and will respond to the needs of the restaurants as they learn more about operating at higher volumes, using operator feedback to guide capital deployment.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Brinker International Inc (EAT) leadership • Q1 2025

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik inquired about the future evolution of the marketing strategy over the next few years and whether the company is considering altering the sequence of its initiatives, such as moving away from the Big Smasher campaign.

    Answer

    CEO Kevin Hochman explained that the marketing budget will likely grow with sales, and the team will continue to deploy funds across TV and social media based on performance. He stated that while the plan is to pivot from the Big Smasher campaign in Q4, they will stick with it as long as it continues to deliver strong results, acknowledging that the business's success could alter the timing of future initiatives.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Constellation Brands Inc (STZ) leadership

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Constellation Brands Inc (STZ) leadership • Q4 2025

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik asked about the biggest risks within the new three-year guidance and where the assumptions might prove to be conservative.

    Answer

    CEO William Newlands identified the duration of consumer concerns as the single biggest risk and variable. He suggested that if consumer sentiment improves faster than anticipated, the company's projections could turn out to be conservative. He stressed that while the company focuses on controllable factors, consumer sentiment remains the most difficult element to predict.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Bloomin' Brands Inc (BLMN) leadership

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Bloomin' Brands Inc (BLMN) leadership • Q4 2024

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik of BMO Capital Markets asked about the outlook for store closures and questioned why the full-year guidance doesn't imply a stronger second half given the timing of new initiatives.

    Answer

    CFO Michael Healy stated that the company has action plans for underperforming assets and will continue to assess them, deciding on lease renewals as part of a holistic strategy. Regarding guidance, he explained that while they are hopeful for momentum from initiatives like Aussie 3-Course in the second half, the guidance remains appropriately cautious, assuming the 'choppiness' seen recently persists throughout the year.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI

    Andrew Strelzik's questions to Bloomin' Brands Inc (BLMN) leadership • Q3 2024

    Question

    Andrew Strelzik inquired if the historical $50 million productivity run rate is still a valid target and asked about the drivers behind Fleming's comparable sales acceleration during the quarter.

    Answer

    CFO Michael Healy indicated that while productivity remains a key focus through technology and simplification, the historical $50 million annual target is likely too high going forward, though opportunities remain material. CEO Mike Spanos attributed Fleming's success to its status as a 'reputational brand' where the team is exceptionally dialed in on elevating the guest experience, from attentiveness to pacing. He highlighted the new Tampa flagship as an example of the brand's high-energy, high-quality execution.

    Ask Fintool Equity Research AI