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EVP & CFO Todd Leombruno clarified that the higher CapEx is for specific projects in North America and should be seen as a one-off, not a new run rate. He stated that restructuring for FY26 is forecasted at approximately $70 million, up from $50 million in FY25. He also confirmed that the industrial recovery profile is modeled as roughly flat in the first half with growth accelerating in the second half.

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CEO Jenny Parmentier explained that HVAC and semi are considered long-cycle due to their connection to secular trends and the long-term order visibility they provide. She reiterated that distributor sentiment is very positive. CFO Todd Leombruno asserted that nearly all of the SG&A reduction is structural and does not anticipate a significant step-up in costs.

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CFO Todd Leombruno detailed the divestiture impact as approximately $300 million in annual sales with a mid-teens EBITDA margin, all from the North American industrial business. He explained that the 'other expense' headwind, while larger than usual due to currency rate volatility, was not adjusted out of earnings because the company chose not to, and it is not expected to recur in subsequent quarters.

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CFO Robert Rehard explained the AMC margin ramp in the second half, particularly Q4, is driven by a higher shippable backlog, better mix, and catching up on higher-margin rare earth product deliveries. CEO Louis Pinkham detailed the rare earth mitigation efforts, including working with new suppliers and shifting some assembly to China, stating they are confident in resolving the issue for the year. Rehard clarified the AR facility is annually renewable, saves about 150 basis points in interest costs, and its associated costs are recorded in SG&A but adjusted out for EBITDA calculations.

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CFO Robert Rehard clarified that Q2 margins are not expected to be negatively impacted by tariffs, attributing shifts to business mix, and noted a potential near-term benefit from pricing actions preceding cost recognition. CEO Louis Pinkham identified competitive opportunities against some Asian rivals in the AMC segment. Regarding humanoids, Pinkham stated the opportunity is global, not primarily China-based, and highlighted that recent wins totaling over $20 million annually are North American-centric and will not be supplied from China.

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CEO Louis Pinkham linked PES general commercial recovery to the ISM, seeing no strength yet in Europe or China. He confirmed short-cycle factory automation orders in AMC showed strength. CFO Rob Rehard explained that FX pressure stems from unfavorable settlement of Mexican Peso hedges that were layered in over the past six quarters, a headwind expected to persist in 2025 before potentially becoming a benefit in 2026.

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CFO Rob Rehard explained the exit rate refers to an annualized Q4 2025 free cash flow run-rate. CEO Louis Pinkham described ongoing pressure in European and Chinese commercial markets with little improvement expected in 2025. He also clarified that while strong long-cycle orders were more AMC-centric, the IPS segment continues to outperform its markets due to acquisition-related scale and scope benefits.

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CFO Christian Rothe confirmed the current ~$230 million annual compensation expense, which includes both merit and incentive pay, is considered a normalized level. CEO Blake Moret affirmed the $2 billion is a total five-year spend, with the majority of the incremental portion being CapEx for margin expansion. He added the goal is to improve efficiency within the existing footprint, not just add capacity.

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CFO Christian Roethe clarified that the ~$230 million full-year compensation figure includes both merit and incentive pay, with the incentive portion now considered normalized. CEO Blake Moret confirmed the $2 billion is a total five-year figure, with the majority of the *incremental* spend being CapEx for margin expansion. The investment aims to improve efficiency within the existing facility footprint rather than adding many new rooftops.

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CFO Christian Rothe clarified that of Rockwell's total sales to China (under 4% of total revenue), a 'teens' percentage is exported from the U.S. He declined to provide a quarterly outlook by segment, pointing to the full-year guidance due to current market volatility. He confirmed that the company is currently incurring tariff costs, implying a consistent impact for the remainder of the second half.

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CFO Christian Rothe confirmed Q1 EPS would be 'significantly below $2' due to volume declines, compensation headwinds, and the non-recurrence of an earn-out benefit. CEO Blake Moret added that achieving the +2% revenue growth at the high end of the guide would require a more pronounced or earlier-than-expected recovery in end markets.

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President & CEO Lal Karsanbhai corrected that there were no order 'push-outs,' only normal timing variations on large bookings, and MRO activity remained steady. COO Ram Krishnan affirmed that North American greenfield activity is strong. EVP & CFO Mike Baughman stated that a similar FX margin impact is not planned for in the fourth quarter.

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COO Ram Krishnan pointed to sequential orders growth in discrete as a positive sign, with green shoots in semiconductors and North American activity. President and CEO Lal Karsanbhai confirmed the LNG moratorium had paused investments and its removal is beneficial. He asserted that win rates are globally consistent, reflecting significant relationship-building efforts in key regions like North America and the Middle East.

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President and CEO Lal Karsanbhai noted that discrete orders turned positive in Q4, indicating a bottoming out and recovery through 2025. COO Ram Krishnan added that 3 of 4 Test & Measurement markets have turned, supporting the recovery outlook. CFO Mike Baughman clarified the AspenTech EPS neutrality comment, pointing to expected synergies, the back-half weighted seasonality of AspenTech's business, and the impact of interest rates on short-term debt used for the transaction.

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CEO Paulo Ruiz acknowledged that Eaton is currently managing inefficiencies from ramping up six new facilities. CFO Olivier Leonetti quantified this as a 100-basis-point margin headwind in Electrical Americas, with better leverage expected next year. Regarding corporate costs, Ruiz cited M&A expenses and accelerated AI investments, which Leonetti described as a short-term initiative not expected to extend into 2026.

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President and COO Paulo Sternadt attributed the Electrical Global strength to mid-teens growth in APAC and low-double-digit growth in EMEA, driven by strong utility and data center markets globally. Regarding mega projects, he shared that Q1 saw $169 billion in new announcements, with the monthly rate increasing to $57 billion. He noted that only 15% of announced projects have started, indicating a long tail of business, and the negotiation pipeline from these projects stands at $3.6 billion. CFO Olivier Leonetti added that project cancellation rates remain low at 11%.

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Paulo Sternadt, President & COO, provided a detailed outlook for the Aerospace segment, forecasting low double-digit growth in OEM for both military and commercial, and high single-digit growth in the aftermarket. He emphasized that Eaton is prepared for production ramps but maintains a cautious external forecast, a strategy that proved successful in 2024.

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Chairman and CEO Craig Arnold stated that the Electrical Americas business has not reached its maximum margin potential, citing operating leverage, manufacturing efficiencies, and restructuring as levers for improvement. He also noted margin opportunities in the Electrical Global and Aerospace businesses. Regarding 2025 growth, Arnold confirmed the company's ambition and expectation to grow faster than its end markets but deferred providing a specific forecast until the Q4 call and upcoming investor meeting.

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CEO Beth Wozniak attributed the Commercial & Resi strength to healthy performance through distribution channels and some enclosures being used in data center applications, but maintained a cautious full-year outlook. She confirmed the Tracte business is growing at double-digits, ahead of expectations, driven by both utility and data center demand, including new gray space opportunities, which contributed to the raised guidance.

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CEO Beth Wozniak clarified the guidance uplift was primarily driven by stronger orders and backlog, not just a price/volume shift. CFO Gary Corona reiterated that the $0.05 EPS from Avail is a net number after interest expense and that the company is just beginning its integration. In response to the Data Solutions question, Beth Wozniak confirmed that order growth was "very strong" in Q1 on top of strong growth in the prior year's Q1, without providing a specific percentage.

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Chair and CEO Beth Wozniak confirmed that while infrastructure is the strongest driver with expected low-double-digit growth, the outlook also calls for low-to-mid-single-digit growth in industrial and low-single-digit growth in commercial. Regarding Trachte, she described it as a new growth platform in control buildings with a strong, growing backlog and applications across utilities, data centers, and energy storage, positioning it as a strong contributor within the broader infrastructure vertical.

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CFO Sara Zawoyski confirmed both segments are expected to grow within the 1-3% organic range in Q4 and attributed Q3-to-Q4 seasonality primarily to the EFS segment. CEO Beth Wozniak described the M&A pipeline as "very robust," stating that while growth is the priority, the company has the capacity for a more sizable deal in 2025 but will remain disciplined on valuation.

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CFO Vikram Kini stated the 3.5-4% pricing is split evenly between base and tariff-related actions and is spread equitably across regions, with the exception of a tighter environment in China. CEO Vicente Reynal explained they are maintaining a precautionary volume stance due to ongoing tariff uncertainty, which they believe is a key factor holding back some customer decisions.

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CFO Vik Kini confirmed that the previously guided first-half/second-half earnings split remains in line with expectations. CEO Vicente Reynal addressed the equipment question by highlighting the company's focus on growing recurring revenue and the positive organic order momentum for compressors, blowers, and vacuums. He stated the company continues to take market share and is not concerned about the underlying health of its core equipment business.

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CFO Vik Kini projected that PST's Q1 margin would be in the 'upper 20s,' with sequential ramping through the year and a mid-year inflection point. CEO Vicente Reynal reiterated that the Life Sciences business is expected to continue its low-double-digit to high-single-digit growth trajectory, driven by strong end-market exposure to biopharma and gene therapy.

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CFO Vik Kini confirmed that PST is expected to return to positive organic growth in Q4. He explained the book-to-bill difference in PST was driven by the lumpy, long-cycle space business within ILC Dover, which is a normal pattern for that segment. He also indicated the full-year contribution from ILC Dover is on track with previous guidance.

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EVP & CFO David Schulz confirmed the guidance excludes any future tariff impacts on sales or margins. Chairman, President & CEO John Engel attributed the strong July start to accelerating momentum across all business units, particularly the return to growth in UBS. Schulz explained the UBS margin dip was due to customer mix and higher SG&A from annual merit increases, with Engel adding that returning sales growth will drive significant operating leverage and margin expansion.

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John Engel, Chairman, President and CEO, detailed that while Q1 price increase notifications were down, the number of notifications in Q2-to-date is up 150% year-over-year, with average increases moving from mid-single to high-single digits. He noted WESCO pushes suppliers to build costs into prices rather than use surcharges. David Schulz, EVP and CFO, added that utility softness is due to customer destocking and project delays but reaffirmed confidence in a second-half recovery driven by customer activity and new contract wins.

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CFO David Schulz explained that storm impact was neutral in Q3 but led to some delayed EES shipments being recognized in October. He noted the UBS backlog is not being replenished at the current rate but views this as temporary. CEO John Engel added that large, multiyear contracts are not fully reflected in the backlog at once and expressed confidence in the utility market's long-term secular growth. He also suggested the election outcome would provide clarity for industrial customers' investment priorities.

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CFO Anshooman Aga confirmed a combined revenue pull-ahead of $15 million to $20 million, primarily due to a planned ERP go-live and factory maintenance. He projected Invenco's 2025 revenue to be approximately $625 million to $630 million and guided for mid-to-high single-digit growth next year despite difficult comparisons. Aga stated that recurring revenue is about 40% for the Mobility Technologies segment and in the low thirties for Vontier overall. CEO Mark Morelli added that these results are proof points for the company's connected mobility strategy.

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CFO Anshooman Aga explained that while Q2 sales will be higher, operating profit margins are expected to be slightly down versus Q1 due to product mix, including promotional pricing at the Matco Expo. On the second point, he clarified the interest guidance reflects the current debt stack and recent refinancing, while the $75 million buyback is a placeholder, and any further cash deployment represents potential upside not yet factored into guidance.

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CFO Anshooman Aga provided the Q4 outlook, projecting high single-digit growth for EFS, flattish results for Mobility Technologies, and a mid-single-digit decline for Repair Solutions. CEO Mark Morelli attributed the strong EFS aftermarket performance to an expanded installed base from the EMV cycle, focused VBS and 80/20 initiatives, and new offerings like refurbished circuit boards. He noted the aftermarket business exceeds $200 million in revenue at margins above the fleet average.

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President and CEO Mark Morelli confirmed that Vontier is not currently seeing any demand disruption and that the tariff impact will be managed through countermeasures, including price increases. SVP and CFO Anshooman Aga added that the second-half outlook embeds about 1% growth, driven primarily by price, reflecting caution on volume due to the macro environment. Aga noted the Matco Expo was successful but may have seen some pre-buying. He also clarified that over half of the year's free cash flow is targeted for buybacks, which are typically back-end weighted and are factored into the full-year average share count guidance.

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Chairman and CEO David Zapico confirmed the A&D book-to-bill was above one. He identified research/academia and semiconductor as the two verticals facing headwinds, sizing the research market at about 10% of AMETEK's total business. He noted that funding delays in the U.S. are creating a headwind that will likely persist through Q3.

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Executive David Zapico stated that for the full year, EMG's organic growth is expected to be slightly higher than EIG's. He attributed the Q4 EMG margin pressure to the calendar effect and volume declines in the highly profitable automation business due to destocking. He noted that the automation business is lagging the medical business in its recovery and did not commit to positive growth in Q1.

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CFO Mark Okerstrom clarified that Q3 dollar sales are expected to be similar to Q2. CEO Olumide Soroye noted that AHS faces a difficult year-over-year comparison in Q3 and the company is being prudent in its recovery assumptions. He added that while it's early, Gordian is seeing positive signs and that software renewal rates and Net Dollar Retention were strong across the portfolio.

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CFO Mark Okerstrom clarified that Q3 dollar sales are expected to be broadly similar to Q2. CEO Olumide Soroye explained the AHS outlook is influenced by a challenging year-over-year comparison in Q3 and a prudent assumption regarding the recovery timeline for hospital spending. He also confirmed that software renewal rates and Net Dollar Retention (NDR) were very strong across the portfolio during the quarter.

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SVP and CFO Charles McLaughlin confirmed the days impact is simple calendar days and that AHS margins are hit more by FX. Executive Elena Rosman quantified the days impact as a 200 basis point headwind to AHS growth in Q1. McLaughlin estimated total stranded costs at $50-$60 million, with half to be offset before the spin and the rest worked down over 12-18 months. President and CEO James Lico added that the $185 million in separation costs are onetime professional fees.

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Elena Rosman, an executive, and James Lico, President and CEO, confirmed the Q4 outlook, clarifying AHS growth would be mid-to-high single digits. Lico highlighted that AHS's strong 9% core growth in Q3 was driven by solid execution, particularly the North American direct sales transition boosting capital sales. He also noted strong SaaS growth at Provation and a minor headwind from IV bag shortages.

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CEO Giordano Albertazzi stated that aggregate win rates have shown good stability. He also noted no significant changes in hyperscaler procurement methods, explaining that while approaches vary by customer, the fundamental processes of sourcing infrastructure components and solutions remain consistent.

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CEO Giordano Albertazzi reported that overall win rates have remained stable, which he views as a positive sign given the strong pipeline growth. He added that there have been no significant shifts in procurement methods by hyperscalers, as different customers maintain distinct design and sourcing philosophies.

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CFO David Fallon confirmed that Q2 would see the highest net tariff impact, with mitigation improving throughout the year. Both Fallon and CEO Giordano Albertazzi stated that while an investment-grade rating is beneficial for customer perception, it is not a critical requirement for contracting, as Vertiv's financial strength is already well-recognized.

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CEO Giordano Albertazzi attributed the revised EMEA outlook to project timelines shifting into 2025 due to regulatory factors and slower decision-making. On capital deployment, he reaffirmed the company's focus on its M&A pipeline while maintaining discipline, and stated that Vertiv will continue to take an 'opportunistic' approach to its share repurchase program.

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CEO Giordano Albertazzi clarified that his comment on the $0.5 million increase was reaffirming the existing move to a $3.0-$3.5 million TAM per megawatt for AI, not a new increase. Regarding 2025, he explained the outlook is based on a combination of the encouraging existing backlog and the strong potential of the future pipeline, evaluated relative to historical booking and shipping dynamics.

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EVP Paul Johnston reported that R-410A is now less than 5% of inventory, with efforts focused on matching remaining components. CEO Albert Nahmad clarified that sell-through incentives are local decisions, not a corporate mandate. VP Rick Gomez added that A2L sell-through exceeded 80% in June. On pricing, Johnston stated they are not seeing significant pushback from contractors, as the market lacks demand elasticity.

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EVP Barry S. Logan and Executive Paul Johnston responded that transactional margins are stable and the pressure is from mix, not discounting, noting a compression towards standard efficiency equipment. Paul Johnston stated contractors will adapt easily to A2L, but consumers may face 'sticker shock' from needing full system replacements. President Aaron Nahmad highlighted Watsco's role in preparing contractors. Barry Logan also confirmed hurricane impacts and calendar effects were not material drivers of October's results.

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Chair & CEO Dave Regnery identified strong activity in higher education as a key driver, noting that universities are using advanced, efficient HVAC systems as a competitive tool to attract students. On China, EVP & CFO Chris Kuehn stated that while the market remains choppy, Trane is now past the one-year anniversary of implementing tighter credit policies, which eases comparisons and supports the company's outlook for a flat full year in the broader Asia segment.

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CEO David Regnery cautioned against reading too much into one quarter for residential market share but confirmed that 100% of current shipments are the new 454B product. He noted that since Trane manufactures most of its value-line products in the U.S., unlike competitors who may import from China, the tariffs could become a competitive advantage. CFO Christopher Kuehn confirmed China is the largest tariff exposure. He also highlighted that key commodities like steel, copper, and over 90% of aluminum are sourced from the U.S., potentially lessening their exposure compared to peers.

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CEO Dave Regnery stated they don't disclose the service mix but aim to convert all service interactions into long-term agreements, adding there is no significant margin differential. CFO Chris Kuehn revealed the BrainBox AI purchase price was under $300 million and its amortization is part of the ~$0.20 negative EPS impact from FX and M&A in the 2025 guide. Kuehn also explained that the benefit from the legacy Trane amortization step-down in 2025 is fully offset by depreciation from recent CapEx and amortization from other recent acquisitions, resulting in a neutral net impact for the year.

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CEO Dave Regnery estimated the China decline was perhaps 50-50 between market factors and the company's policy change, with the policy change having a significant short-term impact as teams educate customers. CFO Chris Kuehn addressed the financial items, suggesting a ~$300 million run-rate for corporate expense is a good starting point for 2025. He confirmed some amortization will roll off but needs to be netted against recent M&A. For interest expense, he indicated the 2025 figure would likely be in the ballpark of 2024's ~$237 million guidance.

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CEO Ivo Jurek expressed strong confidence in the Q3 forecast, citing stable order rates, troughing end markets (excluding on-highway), significant acceleration in personal mobility, and a modest price contribution. Regarding data centers, Jurek stated his view is now "even more bullish" due to the rapid adoption of liquid cooling, and he affirmed that the previously mentioned $150 million revenue target is "totally doable."

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CFO L. Mallard clarified that pricing actions are based on the net impact of tariffs and supply chain reconfiguration, not strictly regional, though there might be slightly more in the U.S. CEO Ivo Jurek asserted that Gates is likely the best-positioned company due to its manufacturing footprint, with most competitors being foreign and less favorably positioned. On liquid cooling, Jurek reported growing engagement with a significant number of new customers, including server manufacturers and hyperscalers, with products in various stages of testing and validation. He noted significant interest in Asia for the company's e-water pump.

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CEO Ivo Jurek confirmed a partial benefit from the new retail partner in Q4, with a more significant ramp-up expected in Q1 2025, ultimately contributing 100-150 basis points of incremental growth for the full year. On data centers, he described deep engagement with a broad set of customers, with projects in various stages from validation testing to late-stage award negotiations, expressing confidence in the company's positioning.

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CFO L. Mallard clarified that the $40 million in savings from footprint optimization is a run-rate target for the end of 2026 and not a specific margin guide. He attributed the Q4 margin pressure to a one-time, 75-80 basis point headwind from accelerating a new automotive replacement contract. CEO Ivo Jurek confirmed the data center TAM is similar to their previous $1B-$1.5B estimate. Regarding Q1, Mallard acknowledged that normal seasonality would suggest a return to growth but deferred formal guidance.

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President and CEO Kevin Holleran noted that parts revenue has increased for several quarters but has escalated more recently. He affirmed the company expects to implement a price increase next year to remain price-cost neutral against inflation. SVP & CFO Eifion Jones explained that the landed cost of Chinese goods is now significantly higher, making it sensible to utilize under-capacitated North American facilities. He estimated the incremental COGS impact from reshoring is less than 1% of net sales, which will be recovered through operational mitigation programs.

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CFO Eifion Jones clarified that Q4 volume growth was driven by both strong in-quarter demand and higher year-over-year early buy orders, resulting in a stronger backlog for 2025. CEO Kevin Holleran added that hurricane-related repairs contributed to in-quarter demand. Regarding tariffs, Holleran stated that with 85% of North American sales produced locally, the direct impact is limited, but the company is monitoring its Tier 2/3 supply chain and is prepared to use pricing to offset any identified cost impacts.

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CEO Kevin Holleran explained that solid early buy activity is a positive indicator for 2025, reflecting channel inventory and dealer optimism. However, CFO Eifion Jones clarified that the Q4 guidance range is primarily driven by uncertainty around 'in-season' orders, not the early buy program, which is tracking as expected. Jones also confirmed the sustainability of North American gross margins, noting fixed costs are only about 10% of COGS.

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CFO Marc Vandiepenbeeck responded that it is too early to commit to over 100% conversion but expressed confidence in solidly delivering in the 90s percentile range. Regarding the portfolio, he confirmed that immediate non-core assets are within the previously discussed range (up to 15%), but the broader strategic review could encompass a larger portion of the business over time.

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CFO Marc Vandiepenbeeck noted that while it's early to commit to 100% conversion indefinitely, he expects performance to be solidly in the 90s or better. CEO Joakim Weidemanis added that the ongoing strategy review will inform capital allocation, but he sees opportunities for technology-focused acquisitions to differentiate key franchises.

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Chairman and CEO George Oliver described the rigorous succession process, highlighting Joakim's experience at Danaher and his suitability for Johnson Controls' value creation journey. CFO Marc Vandiepenbeeck confirmed the 90% FCF conversion target includes approximately $250 million in restructuring cash and attributed the improvement to a better operating system, job selection, and inventory management.

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CFO Marc Vandiepenbeeck detailed the growth outlook, noting APAC would likely perform above the company average due to an easier comparison. He attributed margin strength in Global Products to structural operational efficiencies. CEO George Oliver addressed the succession, stating the board is actively reviewing candidates and expects an update in the first half of calendar 2025.

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COO Christopher J. Nelson stated they are in discussions with channel partners for a modest Q4 price increase and have plans to improve USMCA compliance to industry averages over time. CFO Patrick D. Hallinan detailed that the $800 million tariff estimate is an update from a previous $600 million figure, reflecting higher anticipated tariffs from China, Mexico, and the rest of the world.

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EVP and CFO Pat Hallinan explained the LIFO charge is an accounting requirement where the full-year anticipated tariff variance begins to roll off the balance sheet, disproportionately impacting Q2 before pricing fully catches up. COO Chris Nelson added that the company is exploring various options for importing, packaging, and pairing batteries with tools to achieve USMCA compliance while protecting its technology.

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COO Chris Nelson detailed that investments are focused on the professional end-user, accelerating product launches, adding field resources for market activation, and increasing promotion for core brands like DEWALT, Stanley, and Craftsman. CFO Pat Hallinan clarified that for the full year, SG&A as a percentage of sales is expected to be around 22%, with some minor quarterly fluctuations due to sales seasonality rather than changes in investment cadence.

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COO, EVP and President, Tools & Outdoor Chris Nelson confirmed the focus remains on hitting the $2 billion EBITDA threshold in the first part of 2026 by managing the total income statement. President and CEO Don Allan addressed the tariff question, stating the company has a robust playbook ready. The plan involves initial price increases and a two-year mitigation strategy of moving production from China to other parts of Asia or Mexico, while also engaging in government relations to educate politicians on the industry impact.

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SVP & CFO Patrick Goris detailed the Q3 outlook, explaining that the benefit of organic growth is offset by unfavorable mix from lower residential sales. He clarified that the $0.80 EPS estimate is based on $6 billion in sales, flat year-over-year operating profit, and a 24% effective tax rate. He projected CSA margins would be down about 200 basis points year-over-year in Q3 due to the residential mix.

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CEO David Gitlin stated that the company has effectively offset the majority of tariff impacts through supply chain and productivity actions. He clarified that Carrier views the remaining exposure as the $300 million that requires price increases, which have already been implemented in the channel.

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CFO Patrick Goris confirmed the expectation that the remaining 410A residential units would be flushed out of the channel in Q1. CEO David Gitlin attributed the strong movement to underlying demand and market share gains of about 100 basis points in 2024, adding that while they have excellent visibility into distributor inventory, dealer-level inventory is typically minimal.

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Patrick Goris, CFO, clarified that the overall Q4 adjusted operating margin is expected to be around 12.5%, with HVAC margins near 15-15.5% and Refrigeration around 13%. He noted the margin impact from Viessmann in Q4 would be roughly neutral to the total company. On capital allocation, Goris confirmed a $400 million buyback occurred in Q3, with a plan for about $1 billion total for the year. He stated they are considering both open market purchases and an ASR, and could do more than $1 billion this year depending on the timing of divestiture proceeds.

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President and CEO Richard Tobin explained that CST's margin is currently driven more by mix and productivity than pricing, with strong CO2 systems and data center demand offsetting weakness in other areas. CFO Christopher Woenker added that structural cost actions are also a tailwind. Regarding biopharma, Tobin noted Dover's exposure is more to consumables for in-use equipment, making it less sensitive to new project timing.

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Executive Richard Tobin stated the guidance change was a high-level adjustment, not a detailed price/volume split. He cautioned that PPS margins may not continue to expand from Q1's record level due to mix shifts as other product lines recover. He did confirm a "glimmer of hope" for European heat pumps, with orders improving sequentially.

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Executive Richard Tobin stated that Dover does not see any unusual ordering behavior related to tariff concerns, as the company is primarily a proximity manufacturer. Regarding margins, he confirmed the goal for DCEF is to exit the year in excess of 20%. For DPPS, he noted that reaching a 30% margin is dependent on product mix, with strong biopharma performance being a key driver.

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CEO Richard Tobin directed him to a slide quantifying the headwind from these businesses at ~$300 million, or 4-5% of growth, and confirmed the 2025 framework is a reasonable, but not formal, guide. He affirmed that interest income is included in the updated full-year guidance, helping to offset other softness.

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Chairman & CEO Vimal Kapur clarified that while LNG projects remain strong, sustainable fuels projects are the most impacted by delays, though recent policy clarification should help. SVP & CFO Mike Stepniak explained that passing on tariff costs in Aerospace is slower due to long-term OE contracts, unlike in short-cycle businesses, creating a temporary lag between cost incurrence and price realization.

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Chairman & CEO Vimal Kapur specified that sustainable fuels projects were most impacted by delays, while LNG remains strong. SVP & CFO Mike Stepniak explained the Aerospace margin pressure is due to a time lag in passing on tariff costs in long-term OE contracts. Regarding the tax change, he confirmed it is a net positive and a tailwind for 2026 and 2027, with more details to be provided later.

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CEO Vimal Kapur explained that the 'local-for-local' strategy is foundational to mitigating tariffs, with countermeasures including pricing and direct material productivity. CFO Mike Stepniak clarified the contingency is a top-down, prudent view for the second half, as Q1 and April orders remained strong, noting it's not based on any specific data suggesting a demand drop.

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Incoming CFO Mike Stepniak confirmed the margin math was 'directionally correct' and dependent on short-cycle product growth. CEO Vimal Kapur affirmed a 'material increase' in R&D spending for 2025. On capital allocation, he reiterated the plan for a $3 billion share buyback and stated that Honeywell will remain active in the M&A market across all segments, with Mr. Stepniak adding that the balance sheet has significant capacity.

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CEO Vimal Kapur confirmed there is no anticipated revenue impact from the Boeing strike in Q4, as the company is coordinating shipments. CFO Gregory Lewis specified that commercial aftermarket growth was in the double digits for ATR and single digits for BGA. He also stated that the PPE business has revenues of approximately $1.1 billion. Vimal Kapur added that the plan to monetize Quantinuum remains, with the timing dependent on achieving key technical and commercial milestones.

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CEO Alok Maskara suggested not to read too much into the channel data due to Lennox's smaller two-step exposure, but noted distributors may be maintaining high inventory levels amid uncertainty, with some destocking potentially bleeding into Q3. He explained the inventory build was a deliberate strategy to ensure product availability during the refrigerant transition and address historical dealer complaints, and that levels will be brought down in the second half.

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CFO Michael Quenzer avoided specific quarterly EPS guidance but reiterated that revenue seasonality is expected to be around 45% in the first half and 55% in the second, implying roughly flat revenue for Q2. CEO Alok Maskara addressed the refrigerant issue, stating the shortage is in retail service canisters, not bulk supply for production, and he expects the industry-wide issue to normalize by the end of Q2.

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CFO Michael Quenzer specified that 1-2 percentage points of the mid-single-digit BCS volume growth guidance is from share gains related to the new factory. CEO Alok Maskara estimated the industry-wide R-410A prebuy was in the 300k-600k unit range and clarified that Lennox's own inventory increase was primarily a strategic build for its commercial emergency replacement program.

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CEO Alok Maskara described contractor sentiment as mixed but accepting of the necessary A2L transition, acknowledging a risk of Q4 prebuy. He believes the repair vs. replace dynamic is driven by unit age and won't shift significantly in 2025 but could in future years as R-410A costs rise. He did not size the emergency replacement TAM but noted it's a significant opportunity as Lennox is underweight in that area compared to the industry.

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CEO Judith Marks attributed the 15% new equipment order growth in North America to strength in infrastructure, with residential orders flat. Regarding China, she noted the market remains weak, but Otis is being disciplined on value and service attachment. EVP & CFO Cristina Méndez detailed the Q3-Q4 cadence, explaining that Q3 margins will be impacted by temporary production furloughs, while Q4 earnings will be boosted by improved China shipments, significant acceleration in repair and modernization sales, and productivity gains.

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Chair, President & CEO Judith Marks attributed the Americas' 15% order growth to infrastructure strength, with residential orders being flat. For China, she noted that while comps help, the market remains weak. EVP & CFO Cristina Méndez detailed the earnings cadence, explaining that Q3 margins will be impacted by temporary factory furloughs, while Q4 will see a significant ramp-up in repair and modernization sales, driving a strong finish to the year.

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CFO Cristina Mendez clarified the tariff math, stating the in-year 2025 impact is estimated at $60 million. Regarding margins, she explained the 10 bps expansion includes a 40 bps headwind from tariffs. New Equipment margins will benefit from cost actions but face pressure from tariffs. Service margin expansion will be slightly lighter than in the prior year due to sales mix and intentional investments in service excellence to drive long-term growth.

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Executive Judith Marks stated that modernization margins surpassed New Equipment margins in 2024 and are on a path to double digits. Executive Cristina Mendez detailed that the China savings are entirely in Equipment, while uplift savings are roughly 65% in Service and 35% in Equipment. She also explained the large 2025 restructuring charge is to finalize these programs, positioning the company for a strong 2026.

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Chair, CEO and President Judith Marks explained that while the China New Equipment market is weak, pricing is competitive but not irrational. She stated Otis is balancing volume, price, and liquidity, and that the pivot to service is working, with service now comprising one-third of China's revenue. EVP and CFO Cristina Mendez added that Service margins were in line with expectations, with strong pricing and productivity offsetting wage inflation, which is also in line with expectations.

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CEO Scott Strazik highlighted strong demand for aeroderivatives as a fast-to-commission 'bridge power' solution for customers needing expedited power. He noted the services backlog grew by approximately $1 billion in Q2, largely from new orders feeding the CSA book. He also stated that the prior forecast for 50% growth in upgrades by the end of the decade is now likely a 'floor' given current market strength.

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CEO Scott Strazik highlighted that aeroderivatives are a key solution for customers needing expedited 'bridge power,' with strong global demand. He noted the services backlog grew by approximately $1 billion in Q2, largely from new CSA orders. He also stated that the prior forecast for 50% growth in upgrades by the decade's end is now likely a 'floor,' with a formal update to come after Q3 strategy reviews.

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CEO Scott Strazik reiterated that about one-third of the 21 GW in reservations is for data centers, with the remainder driven by broader electrification and grid resiliency. He clarified the primary gate to converting reservations into orders is the customer finalizing its EPC contract and site selection, rather than financing.

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President and CEO John L. Stauch explained that the Q3 guidance reflects easier year-over-year comparisons and sequential trends rather than a major underlying shift in demand. On pool pricing, he acknowledged the current profit dynamic favors dealers but stated Pentair's strategy is to use targeted incentives to drive high-value content and rebalance channel profitability, while hoping for a return to a more normal inflationary environment.

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CEO John Stauch confirmed the price increases are regular actions and not designed to be reversed if tariffs de-escalate. CFO Bob Fishman reiterated the company's plan to continue its balanced capital allocation strategy, which includes a mix of debt paydown, share repurchases, dividend increases, and potential bolt-on M&A.

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President and CEO John Stauch explained that price increases are typically implemented with 30-60 day notice periods and identified the Water Solutions segment as having the most exposure to manufacturing in Mexico. He also confirmed that the $80 million productivity savings target for 2025 is a net figure, after accounting for strategic growth investments being made primarily in the Water Solutions and Pool segments.

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CEO William Brown clarified the 40 bps is an absolute year-over-year price improvement, contributing to a 70 bps lift for the full year. On service levels, he noted SIBG's OTIF improved to over 85% and is targeting the high 80s by year-end. He reiterated that while hard to quantify, better OTIF implicitly drives growth by reducing customer churn.

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CEO William Brown stated that 3M has not seen any supply chain disruptions or supplier hesitancy to ship. CFO Anurag Maheshwari confirmed the 50/50 EPS split guidance (excluding net tariff impacts) is correct. He also clarified that he does not expect tariffs to create a material change or a more back-end loaded cadence for free cash flow, noting the company will manage working capital accordingly.

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CEO William Brown expressed caution regarding the IPI forecast, noting past forecasts were overly optimistic, but stated the company's 2-3% growth guidance is based on a bottoms-up review. He declined to specify a pricing number. CFO Anurag Maheshwari broke down the $150M net productivity, explaining it's net of $100M in stranded costs and $225M in growth investments, which are more than offset by $280M in restructuring benefits and over $400M in gross productivity from operations.

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CEO William Brown identified the supply chain as the largest contributor to productivity savings, given it represents about half of the $13 billion cost base. CFO Anurag Maheshwari confirmed the Q4 margin decline is expected and driven by seasonality, lower sequential revenue, factory shutdowns, and the timing of investments. He noted the full-year EPS guidance was raised due to strong productivity momentum, share repurchases, and lower net interest expense.

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CFO Robyn Bradbury clarified the equity comp increase reflects a more normalized run rate post-IPO. CEO Mark Witkowski confirmed that while SG&A optimization will contribute, gross margin initiatives are the primary driver for EBITDA expansion. He added that the Q1 inventory build was intentional, reflecting confidence in H1 volume and a strategic move to mitigate potential tariff-related price increases.

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CEO Steve LeClair stated he will continue to support M&A by leveraging his relationships in his new role as Executive Chair. He noted that IIJA funds are beginning to flow to larger, long-term treatment plant projects where Core & Main's early involvement in design-build can lead to positive margins. He also highlighted strong traction in data center projects.

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CFO Mark Witkowski explained that Q3 results were slightly better than internal expectations due to a favorable construction cycle and some release of projects deferred from Q2. He anticipates a neutral pricing environment in 2025, suggesting that steel pipe price declines have bottomed and PVC pipe pricing has been relatively stable.

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CFO Mark Witkowski projected stable sequential pricing for the rest of the year and confirmed that gross margins are expected to grow sequentially from the Q2 base. He explained that recent acquisitions had higher SG&A but were accretive on gross margin, with a focus on scaling them to drive EBITDA synergies rather than hitting a specific initial SG&A rate.

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EVP & CFO Bill Sperry confirmed that Q2 EPS would be in a comparable range year-over-year under that scenario. CEO Gerben Bakker and Sperry explained that price elasticity is factored into the guide, with less expected from broad-based commodity inflation and more from targeted tariffs. They prefer price increases over surcharges to cover all inflation types. Bakker noted that while there are pockets of advantage, Hubbell is not broadly advantaged or disadvantaged versus peers regarding tariffs.

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CFO Bill Sperry confirmed that a mid-teens percentage for Mexico COGS was 'in the right ballpark.' Regarding electrical margins, Sperry attributed the strength to the exit of lower-margin lighting businesses, strong growth in high-margin areas like data centers and renewables, and good operational drop-through, suggesting no mix pullback is expected in 2025. CEO Gerben Bakker added that a favorable product mix also contributed to the quarterly performance.

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CFO William Sperry confirmed that a mid-teens percentage for COGS from Mexico is 'in the right ballpark.' Regarding Electrical margins, Sperry stated there was nothing unusual in the Q4 performance, attributing the strength to the divestiture of lower-margin lighting businesses and growth in high-margin areas like data centers. CEO Gerben Bakker added that a favorable product mix also contributed, and both executives expressed confidence in continued margin expansion for the segment.

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CEO Gerben Bakker confirmed Coe's math on organic growth was correct and that end-market demand remains in the mid-single digits. CFO William Sperry affirmed that the current SG&A level is sustainable, attributing the year-over-year change to elevated investments in the prior year and recent cost management actions.

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CFO Michael Larsen confirmed that every segment is projected to improve margins in 2025, driven primarily by enterprise initiatives. He highlighted that these initiatives are the key driver for the expected 100 bps improvement in the Automotive segment. He also clarified that the $0.15-$0.20 EPS headwind is split between tax and restructuring, with 80% of the restructuring planned for H1 2025.

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CFO Holden Lewis explained that Mexico and Canada have raised duties on certain products, creating a new cost headwind. For 2025, he projected CapEx would likely be lower, in the $200M to $225M range, as a major hub project completes. CEO Dan Florness added that a long-term CapEx guidepost is around 3% of sales, driven by FMI, distribution, and IT investments.

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