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    Bryan Blair

    Research Analyst at Oppenheimer

    Bryan Blair is Managing Director and Senior Analyst at Oppenheimer, specializing in industrial machinery and flow control with a focus on companies such as Pentair, ITT, Dover, Mueller Water Products, and Donaldson. Renowned for data-driven sector coverage and ESG insights, Blair maintains a consistently robust performance track record, including issuing outperform ratings and guidance updates on major names in the industry. With over fifteen years in equity research, consulting, and investment banking, Blair began his career at Lehman Brothers, moving on to roles at Paradigm Capital and EVA Dimensions before joining Oppenheimer in 2014. He holds a BS from Cornell University, is a CFA charterholder, and registers with FINRA as an equity analyst.

    Bryan Blair's questions to DONALDSON Co (DCI) leadership

    Bryan Blair's questions to DONALDSON Co (DCI) leadership • Q4 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair of Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. inquired about the agriculture market, asking for confirmation of a trough and the growth outlook. He also questioned the commercialization timeline for bioprocessing solutions in fiscal 2026 and the expected mix of first-fit versus aftermarket growth in the Industrial Solutions segment.

    Answer

    Chairman, CEO & President Tod Carpenter confirmed the agriculture market bottomed out during the quarter with low single-digit upticks against a low comparison point. He noted that significant revenue from new bioprocessing products is more likely in fiscal 2027, with current Life Sciences growth carried by traditional businesses. For Industrial Solutions, he and CFO Brad Pogalz highlighted that growth is primarily a replacement part story driven by share gains, with the outlook being broad-based across the segment's businesses.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to DONALDSON Co (DCI) leadership • Q3 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair from Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. asked for more detail on the Industrial Solutions segment's top-line trends, particularly regarding project-driven business versus connected services revenue. He also questioned the margin impact from the PureLogix earn-out reversal and whether fiscal 2026 targets for the Life Sciences segment remain achievable.

    Answer

    CEO Tod Carpenter noted that while new equipment sales in Industrial Solutions are pressured, this is offset by strong aftermarket, services, and stationary hydraulics growth. CFO Brad Pogalz quantified the PureLogix earn-out reversal at approximately $6 million and stated that fiscal 2026 targets are currently under review, with an update expected in Q4. Tod Carpenter highlighted that Life Sciences profitability has improved sequentially throughout the year.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to DONALDSON Co (DCI) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair asked for more details on a recent OEM program win in China and inquired about the profitability split within the Life Sciences segment to better understand its future earnings potential.

    Answer

    CEO Tod Carpenter clarified the China win was in the liquid hydraulics sector for tractors, representing a key technology-led gain. He explained that in Life Sciences, legacy businesses are profitable, while recently acquired, pre-revenue bioprocessing businesses are currently diluting segment margins. CFO Brad Pogalz added that Q1 restructuring helped prioritize investments in Life Sciences to improve its profitability trajectory.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to DONALDSON Co (DCI) leadership • Q1 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair asked for clarification on the Mobile Aftermarket results, questioning whether the double-digit growth was primarily from lapping OE channel destocking or from share gains in the independent channel. He also inquired about the price-cost dynamic in Q1 and its expected cadence for the year.

    Answer

    CEO Tod Carpenter stated that the primary driver for the strong aftermarket performance was broad-based market share gains, including with a large customer, NAPA. He characterized the impact of lapping prior-year destocking as slight. CFO Brad Pogalz added that price realization was about 1% for the quarter and is expected to remain at that level for the full year, noting that while labor costs are up, the overall cost environment is a mixed bag and currently well-balanced against pricing.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to DONALDSON Co (DCI) leadership • Q4 2024

    Question

    Bryan Blair asked for a breakdown of fiscal 2024 and 2025 growth trends across Life Sciences sub-segments, the drivers of significant margin outperformance in Mobile and Industrial, and whether the lowered Life Sciences outlook was exclusively due to the muted biopharma market.

    Answer

    CEO Tod Carpenter explained that while specific sub-segment data for Life Sciences is not disclosed, growth is expected to be led by food & beverage while bioprocessing remains muted. He attributed strong Mobile margins to a favorable mix shift toward aftermarket sales, where the company is gaining share. He confirmed the revised Life Sciences outlook is due to a broad market slowdown in biopharma and cell and gene therapy, where development timelines have elongated significantly, but expressed long-term confidence in the portfolio.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to ADVANCED DRAINAGE SYSTEMS (WMS) leadership

    Bryan Blair's questions to ADVANCED DRAINAGE SYSTEMS (WMS) leadership • Q1 2026

    Question

    Bryan Blair of Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. asked for clarification on the first quarter's outperformance, seeking to understand the net impact of weather-related project deferrals versus prior-year timing. He also inquired about the price-cost outlook for the second quarter and the full year.

    Answer

    President & CEO D. Scott Barbour and VP of Corporate Strategy & IR Michael Higgins explained that while some project timing shifted due to weather, the overall impact largely evened out, characterizing underlying demand as "tepid" and "flattish." CFO Scott Cottrill confirmed the full-year price-cost outlook remains neutral, noting that a prior-year pricing headwind will be lapped in the second quarter.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to ADVANCED DRAINAGE SYSTEMS (WMS) leadership • Q4 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair inquired about current order rate trends relative to the full-year guidance and asked for an update on the Renco integration, including margin targets, and the strategic rationale for the River Valley Pipe acquisition.

    Answer

    An executive confirmed that order rates are trending positive and support the guidance, but noted they want to get past the seasonal shift from Q4 to Q1 to better understand underlying market strength. Regarding acquisitions, an executive stated the Renco margin expansion is a 3-to-5-year outlook focused on top-line growth and manufacturing efficiencies. The River Valley acquisition provides increased market share in Illinois and Iowa, offering future footprint optionality and securing key assets.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to ADVANCED DRAINAGE SYSTEMS (WMS) leadership • Q3 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair asked for clarification on the price/cost spread in the Q4 guide and sought a high-level outlook for fiscal 2026 growth prospects across the company's end markets.

    Answer

    CFO Scott Cottrill stated that while a year-over-year price/cost headwind will persist in Q4, the key trend is the sequential stabilization of both pricing and material costs. Executive Michael Higgins and CEO D. Barbour noted it was too early for specific fiscal 2026 guidance, describing the current market as fluid with solid residential demand but variable performance in nonresidential and infrastructure.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to ADVANCED DRAINAGE SYSTEMS (WMS) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair asked about the expected decremental margins for the second half of the year, given the impacts from storms and a slower nonresidential market. He also sought details on the normalized growth and long-term margin potential for the newly acquired Orenco business.

    Answer

    CFO Scott Cottrill guided that second-half margins are typically 300-400 basis points weaker than the first half due to seasonality, and this year the drop would be closer to 400-450 basis points. Regarding Orenco, he stated it is expected to contribute $40-$50 million in revenue for the rest of fiscal 2025 with mid-teens margins, but emphasized significant margin expansion is expected over the next several years through synergies.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to ESAB (ESAB) leadership

    Bryan Blair's questions to ESAB (ESAB) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair of Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. asked for more detail on underlying order trends in the Americas, including a mentioned July improvement, and sought to quantify the expected revenue catch-up from delayed automation and Mexico orders. He also requested details on the EWM acquisition's financials and strategic impact.

    Answer

    President & CEO Shyam Kambeyanda stated that automation orders are expected to recover in the second half, though the Mexico recovery may be slower. He confirmed order stability and a slight improvement in July. Regarding EWM, he highlighted its proprietary technology, €120M revenue, and gross margins over 40%. CFO Kevin Johnson added the deal is highly synergistic with an expected ROIC above 10% within 3-4 years.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to ESAB (ESAB) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Asked for details on underlying order trends in the Americas, the expected impact of demand catch-up in H2, and the financial and strategic rationale behind the EWM acquisition.

    Answer

    Order trends in the Americas stabilized with a slight improvement in July. Automation demand is expected to recover in H2, while Mexico's recovery will be slower. The EWM acquisition is a strategic, proprietary deal valued for its advanced REACT technology, which opens new markets. It's a €120M business with >40% gross margins and is expected to achieve a 10% ROIC within 3-4 years.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to ESAB (ESAB) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair asked for more detail on the Americas' underlying Q2 order trends, the reported improvement in July, and the expected revenue impact from the catch-up in automation and Mexico orders in the second half. He also requested financial and strategic details on the EWM acquisition.

    Answer

    President & CEO Shyam Kambeyanda confirmed that automation orders are expected to recover in H2, while the Mexico recovery may be slower pending trade agreement clarity. He expressed unique enthusiasm for the EWM acquisition, highlighting its proprietary REACT technology. CFO Kevin Johnson noted EWM's strong synergies and projected a 10% ROIC within a 3-4 year period.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to ESAB (ESAB) leadership • Q1 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair asked for details on the impact of tariffs, the balance of volume versus price in the full-year guidance, and trends in the gas control equipment business, including the potential impact of upcoming acquisitions.

    Answer

    CEO Shyam Kambeyanda explained that with 80% of manufacturing in-region, tariff exposure is manageable. CFO Kevin Johnson quantified the North American tariff impact at $15-$20 million, which is being offset by price increases. Mr. Kambeyanda also confirmed strong momentum in the gas control business, noting two potential tuck-in acquisitions in Q2 are expected to further boost growth and margins in the medical gas control segment.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to ESAB (ESAB) leadership • Q3 2024

    Question

    Bryan Blair from Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. asked for an update on the integration of Linde Bangladesh and the composition of the M&A funnel. He also inquired about the progress and timeline for the heavy and light industrial equipment portfolio refresh.

    Answer

    CEO Shyam Kambeyanda reported that the Linde Bangladesh integration is going well, providing capacity for the subcontinent and an opportunity to introduce equipment. He described the M&A funnel as robust in both FABTECH and gas control. Regarding the portfolio, he stated the 'big refresh' is complete but innovation is continuous, with plans to expand the engine-driven welder, robotics, and battery-driven product lines in 2025.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to Mueller Water Products (MWA) leadership

    Bryan Blair's questions to Mueller Water Products (MWA) leadership • Q3 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair of Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. requested a more detailed outlook for Q4 to establish a realistic starting point for fiscal 2026, asking about segment contributions, the volume versus price mix, and the implied carryover price benefit. He also inquired about the long-term outlook for gross profitability between the WMS and WFS segments.

    Answer

    SVP & CFO Melissa Rasmussen provided Q4 segment expectations, projecting slower growth for WFS with margins around 29% due to tariffs, while WMS is expected to continue its strong performance. CEO Marietta Zakas added that targeted pricing actions have been implemented to offset tariffs, with benefits expected in Q4 and carrying into 2026, in addition to the carryover from the annual February price increase. Regarding long-term profitability, Rasmussen stated that WMS margins are expected to improve and move closer to pre-war levels in 2026, while benefits from the foundry exit will continue.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to Mueller Water Products (MWA) leadership • Q1 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair of Oppenheimer inquired about the commercial benefits of the new brass foundry beyond margin improvement, such as market share or pricing power. He also asked for an assessment of the potential impact from announced tariffs, before any mitigation.

    Answer

    President and COO Paul McAndrew stated that the new foundry's commercial advantages include improved customer service and better positioning for lead service line replacement projects. CEO Marietta Zakas addressed tariffs, emphasizing that with 92% of sales in the U.S. and vertical integration, the exposure is manageable. She noted that guidance excludes tariff impacts and that the company has previously used pricing and strategic sourcing to mitigate similar costs.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to SPX Technologies (SPXC) leadership

    Bryan Blair's questions to SPX Technologies (SPXC) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair of Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. inquired about the growth outlook for the data center business, the expected revenue capacity increase from manufacturing expansions, and the second-half forecast for the Detection & Measurement segment.

    Answer

    President & CEO Gene Lowe stated that data center revenue is projected to grow from approximately $150-200 million in 2025 to over 10% of company revenue in 2026, supported by the new Olympus VMAX product. He also detailed capacity expansion plans aiming for a combined ~$300 million run-rate for Ingenia by 2027. CFO Mark Carano added that the D&M project business is expected to grow organically in the high teens in the second half of 2025.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to SPX Technologies (SPXC) leadership • Q1 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair from Oppenheimer inquired about how order rates have progressed amid tariff uncertainty, asked for an update on the Ingenia acquisition's revenue projections and multiyear growth visibility, and questioned how the Sigma & Omega deal impacts the HVAC segment's total addressable market (TAM).

    Answer

    President and CEO Eugene Lowe stated that the company's position feels stronger than at the start of the year, with balanced demand in HVAC and a particularly strong outlook for data centers. Executive Paul Clegg provided specifics on Ingenia, noting its revenue capacity is expected to reach a $140 million run rate by year-end. Eugene Lowe added that Ingenia's growth is constrained by scaling capacity, not by demand. Regarding the Sigma & Omega acquisition, he explained that while it meaningfully expands the addressable market in a key niche, the overall TAM for its products is smaller than that for cooling towers.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to SPX Technologies (SPXC) leadership • Q4 2024

    Question

    Bryan Blair asked for more detail on the full-year 2025 guidance, including key watch items for the low end and potential upside drivers for the high end, as well as the expected cadence of revenue and earnings. He also inquired about the 2024 data center revenue contribution and the 2025 outlook, and the financial contribution and total addressable market (TAM) expansion from the KTS acquisition.

    Answer

    CFO Mark Carano outlined that HVAC end markets remain bullish, with risks tied to weather and non-residential momentum, while D&M's performance depends on the economic environment and project timing. Executive Paul Clegg confirmed data center revenue was about 7% of total 2024 sales and is expected to be a similar or better share in 2025. Mark Carano and Paul Clegg detailed that the KTS acquisition is expected to add about $80 million in revenue in 2025, with a modest EPS contribution. CEO Eugene Lowe added that KTS offers significant growth by expanding into other military branches and leveraging SPX's existing global sales channels.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to SPX Technologies (SPXC) leadership • Q3 2024

    Question

    Bryan Blair of Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. questioned the sustainability of demand in the Detection & Measurement run-rate business, seeking clarity on regional variations and the project pipeline outlook for 2025. He also probed the M&A pipeline's strength and the company's capacity for larger deals following its credit facility expansion.

    Answer

    CEO Eugene Lowe stated that the run-rate business is flattish with modest growth, noting softness in China and Continental Europe but stability in the U.S. He expressed cautious optimism for 2025, highlighting a healthy but variably-timed project pipeline. Regarding M&A, Lowe confirmed a very strong and active pipeline across both D&M and HVAC segments, feeling optimistic about opportunities over the next 12 months and confirming the expanded revolver provides the necessary dry powder to execute their growth strategy.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS (LECO) leadership

    Bryan Blair's questions to LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS (LECO) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair of Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. sought more detail on the strong automation quoting activity and its potential for a demand inflection in 2026. He also asked for color on the weakening demand in the International Welding segment, specifically which regions were most affected and how its order trends looked into July.

    Answer

    President, CEO & Chair Steven Hedlund explained that high quoting activity is tied to customer contingency planning around trade policy, but the outlook remains conservative until final rules are set. EVP, CFO & Treasurer Gabriel Bruno noted that the overall stable July trends included the International segment. He specified that international weakness was driven by project timing in Asia and economic challenges in Turkey, while core Europe saw low-single-digit organic trends.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS (LECO) leadership • Q1 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair asked for a breakdown of the announced mid-single-digit pricing between direct price and surcharges, the price-cost impact in Q1, and the outlook for the rest of the year. He also requested an update on the integration and performance of the RedViking and Vanair acquisitions and the current M&A pipeline.

    Answer

    CFO Gabriel Bruno stated that Lincoln Electric was price-cost neutral in Q1 and will not disclose the specific split between price increases and surcharges. Regarding acquisitions, Bruno confirmed that the integrations of RedViking and Vanair are on schedule but are expected to remain dilutive for up to three years, as planned. He also noted the M&A environment remains sluggish, prompting the company to increase its share repurchase guidance.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS (LECO) leadership • Q3 2024

    Question

    Bryan Blair asked for details on October order rates to understand the Q4 trend and the starting point for 2025, and also requested a breakdown of cost savings between temporary and structural actions within the automation business.

    Answer

    CFO Gabriel Bruno stated that Q4 organic sales are expected to decline in the high single-digits, continuing the decelerating trends seen in Q3 across all product profiles. He noted that external indicators like PMI and industrial production support this outlook. Regarding automation-specific cost savings, Bruno did not provide a detailed breakdown but highlighted that operational improvements are helping the business track towards its low-teens EBIT margin target.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to CARLISLE COMPANIES (CSL) leadership

    Bryan Blair's questions to CARLISLE COMPANIES (CSL) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair from Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. asked about monthly order and revenue phasing through Q2 and into July, the potential impact of recent political developments on construction, and financial details for the Bonded Logic acquisition.

    Answer

    CEO D. Christian Koch noted that market anxiety increased through Q2, causing decision delays in new construction, a tone that remained consistent into July. He highlighted a potential U.S. manufacturing renaissance as a positive catalyst. Regarding Bonded Logic, Koch targeted gross margins north of 50% over time, while CFO Kevin Zdimal projected a very high double-digit revenue CAGR for the new product line.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to CARLISLE COMPANIES (CSL) leadership • Q1 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair of Oppenheimer inquired about the price-cost phasing for Q2 and the full year, the performance and financial contribution of the MTL acquisition, and the current state of the M&A pipeline amid macro uncertainty.

    Answer

    CFO Kevin Zdimal stated that both price and cost are expected to be neutral in Q2, with low single-digit price increases in the second half leading to a positive 1% price-cost benefit for the full year. CEO D. Koch reported that the MTL acquisition is exceeding expectations, with strong integration progress and cross-divisional collaboration. He noted that while the M&A pipeline is active, macro uncertainty has created valuation gaps, slowing deal closures, but expects activity to resume with more market stability.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to CARLISLE COMPANIES (CSL) leadership • Q4 2024

    Question

    Bryan Blair requested more detail on CCM's volume trends in Q4, asking about the monthly cadence and whether the company observed project deferrals. He also asked about recent trends versus the Q1 outlook and sought clarification on the full-year price-cost assumption and the margin expansion breakdown between the CCM and CWT segments.

    Answer

    CEO D. Koch stated that market sentiment grew more positive toward the end of Q4, noting the resilience of the reroofing business. He also mentioned that dry weather on the West Coast negatively impacted the CWT segment. Koch clarified that the full-year outlook is for positive pricing against neutral raw material costs, resulting in a positive price-cost dynamic weighted to the second half. CFO Kevin Zdimal confirmed this positive price-cost outlook applies to both the CCM and CWT segments for 2025.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to CARLISLE COMPANIES (CSL) leadership • Q3 2024

    Question

    Bryan Blair of Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. asked for a quantification of the Q3 top-line and margin impact from the combined effects of hurricanes and port strikes. He also requested a discussion of the puts and takes for the CWT segment's outlook heading into 2025.

    Answer

    CFO Kevin Zdimal quantified the Q3 top-line impact from hurricanes and port strikes at $10 million to $15 million, with a recovery of that business expected in 2025. For the CWT outlook, CEO Chris Koch highlighted positive drivers like retail channel expansion and new products but noted that a significant rebound depends on broader economic factors like interest rate cuts and improved housing affordability, which he anticipates more in the second half of 2025.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to TIMKEN (TKR) leadership

    Bryan Blair's questions to TIMKEN (TKR) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair from Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. asked for more detail on monthly order trends through Q2 and into July to gauge the conservatism of the revised guidance. He also requested an update on the timeline and expected margin impact from ongoing discussions with automotive OEM customers.

    Answer

    EVP and CFO Philip Fracassa stated that July sales rates were tracking in line with the guide's midpoint and that order intake has been improving, but the outlook remains cautious. President & CEO Rich Kyle confirmed that discussions with auto OEMs are active, targeting over half of the auto OE revenue, and are expected to yield a positive margin uplift in 2026 through a combination of repricing and portfolio exits.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to TIMKEN (TKR) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair from Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. asked for details on month-over-month order trends through Q2 and into July, and sought an update on the discussions with automotive OEM customers, including the timeline and potential margin impact.

    Answer

    EVP and CFO Philip Fracassa stated that July sales rates were tracking in line with or slightly ahead of the guide's midpoint and that order intake rates have been improving through the year. President & CEO Rich Kyle commented on the auto OEM discussions, confirming they are active and focused on over half of the auto OE revenue, with an expected positive margin impact in 2026 from a combination of repricing and exiting business.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to TIMKEN (TKR) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair inquired about the month-by-month order trends through Q2 and into July to gauge the conservatism of the revised guidance. He also requested an update on discussions with automotive OEM customers, including the timeline and potential margin impact.

    Answer

    EVP and CFO Philip Fracassa stated that July sales rates were tracking in line with the guide's midpoint and that order intake has been improving, describing the outlook as cautious rather than conservative. President & CEO Richard Kyle confirmed that discussions with auto OEMs are active and are expected to result in a positive margin uplift in 2026 through a combination of repricing and exiting certain business.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to TIMKEN (TKR) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair of Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. asked for details on month-over-month order trends through Q2 and into July. He also requested an update on the discussions with automotive OE customers, including the timeline for finalization and the potential margin impact.

    Answer

    EVP and CFO Philip Fracassa noted that July sales rates were tracking in line with or slightly ahead of the guide's midpoint and that order intake rates have been improving throughout the year. President & CEO Richard Kyle stated that discussions with auto OEMs are active, focusing on just over half of the auto OE revenue. He anticipates a positive margin impact in the second half of 2026 from a combination of repricing and exiting business, with more clarity expected with the 2026 guidance.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to TIMKEN (TKR) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair from Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. asked for details on month-by-month order trends through Q2 and into July to gauge the conservatism of the revised guidance. He also requested an update on discussions with automotive OEMs, including the timeline and potential margin impact.

    Answer

    EVP and CFO Philip Fracassa noted that July sales rates were tracking in line with the guide's midpoint and order intake has been improving, but the cautious outlook reflects push-outs in discretionary spending. President and CEO Richard Kyle stated that discussions with auto OEMs are active, with an expected positive margin uplift in the second half of 2026 from a combination of repricing and exiting parts of the portfolio.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to TIMKEN (TKR) leadership • Q1 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair inquired about the updated guidance, seeking a breakdown of the underlying price versus volume assumptions and any significant differences between business segments. He also asked for more detail on renewable energy trends, particularly in China, and the full-year growth outlook for that sector.

    Answer

    CFO Philip Fracassa explained that the unchanged organic revenue forecast of -1% now includes a price increase of nearly 1.5% to offset tariffs, with a corresponding decrease in the volume outlook. He noted the volume adjustment is more weighted to the Industrial Motion segment. Regarding renewables, Fracassa stated that Q1 demand was surprisingly strong, leading them to upgrade the full-year outlook for the sector from flat to mid-single-digit growth. CEO Richard Kyle added that the inventory glut in the wind energy channel has been resolved.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to TIMKEN (TKR) leadership • Q4 2024

    Question

    Bryan Blair requested a breakdown of the $75 million in cost savings between COGS and SG&A, as well as across business segments. He also asked CEO Tarak Mehta for his view on the most attractive growth opportunities.

    Answer

    CFO Philip Fracassa detailed the savings as roughly two-thirds from Engineered Bearings and one-third from Industrial Motion, with an approximate 80/20 split between COGS and SG&A. CEO Tarak Mehta identified key opportunities in focusing on profitable growth, enhancing customer-centricity for local markets, and reducing vertical integration.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to TIMKEN (TKR) leadership • Q3 2024

    Question

    Bryan Blair asked for an update on order rates across major end markets through Q3 and into Q4, and for more detail on the anticipated production slowdowns. He also questioned the extent of EBITDA compression in the Industrial Motion segment due to the belts and chain platform and the potential for margin improvement in 2025 as the new Mexico facility fully ramps up.

    Answer

    President and CEO Tarak Mehta noted softness in general industrial markets and confirmed the company is reducing production to align with demand. CFO Philip Fracassa added that the order book was flattish sequentially and supportive of guidance. Regarding Industrial Motion, Mehta explained the "trifecta" of lower volumes, overhead from three plants, and a slower-than-desired Mexico ramp-up is creating headwinds. Fracassa projected that once the U.S. plant closes and Mexico ramps in early 2025, it should provide a nice margin improvement.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to Zurn Elkay Water Solutions (ZWS) leadership

    Bryan Blair's questions to Zurn Elkay Water Solutions (ZWS) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair of Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. inquired about the drivers of Q2 growth by product category and the M&A pipeline's current status and actionability.

    Answer

    President, CEO & Chairman Todd Adams explained that growth was driven by innovation across drinking water, flow systems, and water safety, leading to sustainable share gains. Regarding M&A, Adams confirmed the company is actively cultivating its pipeline, has the management capacity and balance sheet to execute, and is confident a deal will materialize at the right time.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to Zurn Elkay Water Solutions (ZWS) leadership • Q1 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair asked for an updated view on the full-year guidance, specifically the new expected contribution from volume versus price given the tariff situation, and inquired about any recent changes in project timing or MRO order trends.

    Answer

    Todd Adams, Chairman and CEO, explained that while announced price increases will likely exceed the original 1% forecast, it is too early to formally update the full-year guidance framework. He expressed high confidence in achieving the current guidance through supply chain actions and pricing. Adams noted a brief acceleration in orders ahead of the April price increase but has not seen any significant project delays or changes in MRO activity.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to Zurn Elkay Water Solutions (ZWS) leadership • Q4 2024

    Question

    Bryan Blair of Stephens Inc. inquired about the expected dynamics between the first and second half of 2025 for Zurn Elkay's end markets and sought details on the company's M&A pipeline and confidence in closing deals.

    Answer

    David Pauli, an executive, responded that based on Dodge starts data, institutional and commercial markets could see an acceleration in the second half of 2025, while the first half is expected to resemble recent 2024 quarters. CEO Todd Adams addressed the M&A question, confirming active work on several strategic opportunities and highlighting the company's strong balance sheet optionality, while emphasizing a disciplined approach without committing to a specific timeline.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to Zurn Elkay Water Solutions (ZWS) leadership • Q3 2024

    Question

    Bryan Blair inquired about the growth rate differences among product categories for Q3 and the Q4 outlook, the 2025 growth prospects for drinking water given Michigan's 'filter-first' legislation, and the expected timing and benefit of supply chain repositioning.

    Answer

    CFO David Pauli noted that product category growth was similar, with drinking water performing exceptionally well with double-digit growth in filtered bottle fillers, a trend expected to continue in Q4. He detailed the Michigan legislation's two-year adoption timeline ('25-'26). CEO Todd Adams added that supply chain initiatives are expected to yield $5M-$10M at full run rate, with at least $5 million anticipated in 2025.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to IDEX CORP /DE/ (IEX) leadership

    Bryan Blair's questions to IDEX CORP /DE/ (IEX) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Inquired about the unexpected weakness in the water segment during the quarter and asked for details on the new Microlam acquisition, including its strategic fit and how it compares to other M&A prospects.

    Answer

    The company clarified that the water segment's Q2 performance was due to order timing issues, similar to other parts of the business, and that the underlying outlook remains strong. Regarding Microlam, they described it as a strategic, complementary tuck-in for their MSS platform, providing precision optics manufacturing that fits well with their existing capabilities and is representative of their current M&A focus.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to IDEX CORP /DE/ (IEX) leadership • Q1 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair of Oppenheimer asked for an update on real-time order trends in short-cycle 'canary' businesses, particularly before and after recent tariff news. He also inquired about the current M&A environment and activity.

    Answer

    CFO Abhi Khandelwal stated that order trends in these businesses have remained 'steady and in line with our expectation' through April, with no identifiable pivot based on news. CEO Eric Ashleman added that while near-term M&A transactions are slow industry-wide, IDEX's work on its proprietary pipeline of long-term conversations continues uninterrupted. The current focus is on integrating recent deals and exploring bolt-on acquisitions for the new growth platforms.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to FRANKLIN ELECTRIC CO (FELE) leadership

    Bryan Blair's questions to FRANKLIN ELECTRIC CO (FELE) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair of Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. asked if Q2 results benefited from any significant order pull-forward, questioned the drivers of the Distribution segment's margin expansion, and requested an update on the integration of the PumpEngine and Barnes acquisitions.

    Answer

    CEO Joe Ruzynski confirmed that Q2 order patterns were normal with no significant pull-forward. He and CFO Jennifer Wolfenbarger explained that the Distribution segment's margin improvement was driven by a mix of cost actions (about one-third), operational efficiencies, and market share gains. Ruzynski added that the recent acquisitions are integrating well, with plans to expand the Barnes foundry to support growth and near-shoring initiatives.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to FRANKLIN ELECTRIC CO (FELE) leadership • Q4 2024

    Question

    Bryan Blair asked for details on the newly renamed Energy Systems segment, including growth rates and margins for newer versus legacy products, and inquired about the strategic fit and key financial metrics of the recently announced Barnes de Columbia acquisition.

    Answer

    CEO Joseph Ruzynski noted that the critical asset monitoring business within Energy Systems gained momentum late in 2024 and is poised for growth with very good margins. He highlighted the Barnes acquisition's strategic value in expanding its commercial pump line and vertical integration in Latin America. CFO Jeffery Taylor added that the two recent acquisitions are expected to contribute approximately $50 million in revenue and $0.03 in EPS for 2025, with a combined purchase price around $125 million.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to FRANKLIN ELECTRIC CO (FELE) leadership • Q3 2024

    Question

    Bryan Blair of Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. inquired about the company's Q4 expectations by segment, the high-level growth outlook for 2025, and the current state of the M&A pipeline and readiness for capital deployment.

    Answer

    Executive Jeffery Taylor detailed the Q4 outlook, expecting it to be similar to Q3, impacted by wet weather and a significant headwind from lower large dewatering equipment sales. He noted that Fueling comps are normalizing. CEO Joseph Ruzynski added that despite headwinds, positive order rates and new product integrations provide cautious optimism for 2025. Regarding M&A, Ruzynski confirmed a healthy pipeline focused on adding value-added products to leverage their strong distribution channel, particularly in faster-growing verticals.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to SMITH A O (AOS) leadership

    Bryan Blair's questions to SMITH A O (AOS) leadership • Q2 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair of Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. asked if the strategic assessment of the China business could potentially include the India business. He also inquired if the North America water treatment business was still on track for its margin expansion target and what its future incremental margin profile might look like.

    Answer

    CEO Stephen Shafer clarified that the strategic review announcement is specific only to the China business. CFO Charles Lauber confirmed the water treatment business is tracking toward its 250 basis point margin expansion goal for the year, driven by the intentional de-emphasis of the less profitable retail channel. Shafer added that further margin gains could come from integration synergies.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to SMITH A O (AOS) leadership • Q1 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair of Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. requested confirmation that the tariff impact on COGS includes the full run-rate of tankless imports and asked for management's perspective on the competitive risks and opportunities arising from trade policy uncertainty.

    Answer

    CFO Chuck Lauber confirmed the 6-8% COGS impact includes tankless products based on 2024 volumes, noting that existing inventory might mitigate the 2025 impact. He mentioned that calculating a precise pro forma number is complex due to the accelerated transition. President and COO Stephen Shafer stated that uncertainty creates an opportunity to respond faster and more effectively than competitors. Chairman and CEO Kevin Wheeler emphasized that their 'in-country, for-country' manufacturing strategy provides a competitive advantage in navigating global volatility.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to SMITH A O (AOS) leadership • Q4 2024

    Question

    Bryan Blair sought more detail on the shift in North American water treatment strategy, asking if it was driven by changing competitive dynamics or simply the better economics of other channels. He also asked about the margin profile and medium-term profitability expectations for the newly acquired Pureit business in India.

    Answer

    President and COO Steve Schafer and CEO Kevin Wheeler clarified that the water treatment strategy shift is a result of learning where the company's strengths and products play best, leading to a de-emphasis of the retail channel to focus on more profitable areas. CFO Chuck Lauber stated that the Pureit acquisition is expected to contribute about $50 million in revenue in 2025 with a mid-single-digit operating margin, similar to the existing India business, as the current focus is on integration and growth.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to SMITH A O (AOS) leadership • Q3 2024

    Question

    Bryan Blair asked if cost optimization efforts in China and North America are structural or variable, and requested details on how the pending Pureit acquisition will accelerate profitable growth in India.

    Answer

    CFO Charles Lauber explained that North America actions were variable (e.g., headcount reduction via attrition), while China efforts are ongoing and more structural, including product redesign and streamlining the store footprint. CEO Kevin Wheeler stated the Pureit acquisition will double their business in India, providing critical scale, a larger distribution footprint, and complementary brand strengths to drive both top-line growth and margin enhancement.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to Xylem (XYL) leadership

    Bryan Blair's questions to Xylem (XYL) leadership • Q1 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair of Oppenheimer followed up on the M&CS segment's margin, asking for the expected magnitude of the mix impact in Q2 and seeking confirmation of confidence in full-year margin expansion. He also asked about April order trends and any early signs of impact from recent price increases.

    Answer

    CFO Bill Grogan specified that the M&CS margin decline in Q2 would be 'close to double the impact' seen in Q1, primarily due to mix. However, he reaffirmed confidence in full-year margin expansion for the segment, as underlying productivity gains are expected to overcome this headwind in the second half. CEO Matthew Pine reported that April order trends were tracking to forecast with no significant pullbacks observed yet, though the company remains watchful.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to GRACO (GGG) leadership

    Bryan Blair's questions to GRACO (GGG) leadership • Q1 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair of Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. requested color on order trends before and after the tariff announcements and asked for an update on the COROB acquisition, including its integration progress and early traction in North America.

    Answer

    Executive Mark Sheahan stated that April order trends showed no real degradation, though some pre-buying was likely included in strong post-quarter bookings. Regarding COROB, Sheahan characterized the integration as having 'no surprises,' with revenue on track and teams working well together. He noted the current focus is on introductory meetings with major North American customers to establish Graco's value proposition. Executive David Lowe added that the financial integration is also proceeding smoothly.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to GRACO (GGG) leadership • Q4 2024

    Question

    Bryan Blair from Oppenheimer asked for an update on the Corob acquisition, including integration progress, the 2025 outlook, and long-term profitability goals. He also questioned the key drivers behind the expected return to growth in China for the upcoming year.

    Answer

    Executive Vice President Mark Sheahan reported that the Corob integration is proceeding well, with an expectation of low single-digit growth for that business in 2025. He highlighted the opportunity to expand Corob's presence in North America. For China, Sheahan attributed the expected growth to the legacy Graco business having stabilized against easier comps. CFO David Lowe added that they are seeing renewed project activity in previously weak Chinese markets like battery, solar, and automotive.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to PENTAIR (PNR) leadership

    Bryan Blair's questions to PENTAIR (PNR) leadership • Q1 2025

    Question

    Bryan Blair asked for the expected phasing of the remaining transformation benefits for the year and whether the segment-level margin expansion outlooks have changed.

    Answer

    CFO Bob Fishman stated that the remaining $56 million in transformation savings would be spread evenly across the remaining three quarters, with Flow and Water Solutions being key contributors. CEO John Stauch confirmed that the prior segment-level return on sales (ROS) improvement targets, including approximately 100 basis points for Pool, continue to track with the current forecast.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to PENTAIR (PNR) leadership • Q4 2024

    Question

    Bryan Blair asked if the updated 2026 ROS target of 26% implies a meaningful shift in segment contribution compared to the previous Investor Day outlook. He also requested details on the recent GNS (Gulfstream) acquisition, including its strategic fit and financial contribution.

    Answer

    CFO Bob Fishman confirmed that all three segments are expected to contribute to the ROS expansion story, with the path to 26% being well-defined by productivity programs. Regarding the acquisition, President and CEO John Stauch described it as a strategic tuck-in that strengthens their pool heat pump offerings in key markets. Bob Fishman provided financial details, noting the acquisition is expected to add approximately $35 million in 2025 revenue at a roughly 30% ROS.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to PENTAIR (PNR) leadership • Q3 2024

    Question

    Bryan Blair of Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. asked about the pace of transformation savings, the potential for higher margin targets, and the company's capital deployment strategy, including the M&A pipeline.

    Answer

    CFO Bob Fishman confirmed the company is ahead of its initial transformation savings plan, with 80/20 initiatives increasing confidence. President and CEO John Stauch described the M&A pipeline as a 'trickle' and stated the focus remains on disciplined capital use, including debt repayment and share repurchases, given the current environment.

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    Bryan Blair's questions to WATTS WATER TECHNOLOGIES (WTS) leadership

    Bryan Blair's questions to WATTS WATER TECHNOLOGIES (WTS) leadership • Q4 2024

    Question

    Bryan Blair of Oppenheimer requested an update on the integration of the Bradley and Josam acquisitions, their performance relative to the deal model, and specifics on the product lines being discontinued. He also asked about the rollout of the Nexa digital solution, customer feedback, and the current scale of SaaS revenue.

    Answer

    CEO Robert Pagano reported that both Bradley and Josam exceeded their profit and synergy targets. The discontinued products are non-core safety items, lockers, and accessories. Regarding Nexa, he described it as being in the early stages with very positive customer feedback, noting it protects the core business and that all products will be integrated by year-end. He stated that current SaaS revenue is negligible but a growing focus.

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