Gerard Forbes

Gerard Forbes, in a bundled question, sought clarification on whether the Sojitz collaboration is part of the previously announced $500 million investment plan for Mexico or a separate initiative, Sojitz's role in co-investment and execution, and the nature and quantifiable top-line impacts of the $500 million investment.

Answer

Suso Zamora, Executive Chairman and President, Auna, confirmed that the $500 million investment plan is related to the MOU with Sojitz and represents a sizable portion of Auna's investment strategy in Mexico. He emphasized that this partnership is expected to generate significant top-line and EBITDA growth, with the intention to grow the top line at high teens and above.

Gerard Ford sought clarification on the partnership with Sojitz, asking if it's part of the previously announced $500 million investment plan for Mexico or a separate initiative. He also asked about Sojitz's role in co-investment, capital contributions, or execution, and the nature of the $500 million investment, including quantifiable top-line impacts.

Answer

Suso Zamora, Executive Chairman and President, confirmed that the $500 million investment plan for Mexico over five years is related to the MOU with Sojitz. He stated that the partnership, while not having a specific number attached to the MOU itself, represents a sizable part of Auna's investment plan in Mexico. He expects this collaboration to produce significant top-line and EBITDA growth, aiming to continue growing the top line at high teens and above.

Gerard Forbes from Sura inquired about the historical volatility in Auna's effective tax rate and asked for guidance on a sustainable rate for the short and medium term.

Answer

CFO and Executive Vice President Giselle Remy explained that past volatility stemmed from the recognition of deferred tax benefits from prior years' tax credits. She stated that with profits now stabilizing, the effective tax rate has normalized and investors should expect it to remain in a sustainable range of 35% to 38% going forward.