Q2 2025 Adecoagro SA Earnings Call
Speaker #2: Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, and thank you for waiting. At this time, we would like to welcome everyone to Adecoagro's second quarter 2025 results conference call.
Operator: Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, and thank you for waiting. At this time, we would like to welcome everyone to Adecoagro S.A.'s second quarter 2025 results conference call. Today with us, we have Mr. Mariano Bosch, CEO; Mr. Emilio Gnecco, CFO; Mr. Renato Junqueira Pereira, Sugar, Ethanol, and Energy Vice President; and Mrs. Victoria Cabello, Investor Relations Officer. We would like to inform you that this event is being recorded, and all participants will be in a listen-only mode during the company's presentation. After the company's remarks are completed, there will be the question and answer section. At that time, further instructions will be given. Before proceeding, let me mention that forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs and assumptions of Adecoagro S.A.'s management and on information currently available to the company.
Speaker #2: Today, we have with us Mr. Mariano Bosch, CEO; Mr. Emilio Gnecco, CFO; Mr. Renato Junqueira Pereira, Sugar Ethanol and Energy VP; and Mrs. Victoria Cabello, Investor Relations Officer.
Speaker #2: We would like to inform you that this event is being recorded and all participants will be in listen-only mode. During the company's presentation, after the company's remarks are completed, there will be a question and answer section.
Speaker #2: At that time, further instructions will be given. Before proceeding, let me mention that forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs and assumptions of Adecoagro's management and the information currently available to the company.
Speaker #2: They involve risks, certainties, and assumptions because they relate to future events and therefore depend on circumstances that may or may not occur in the future.
Operator: They involve risks, uncertainties, and assumptions because they relate to future events and therefore depend on circumstances that may or may not occur in the future. Investors should understand that general economic conditions, industry conditions, and other operating factors could also affect the future results of Adecoagro S.A. and could cause results to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements. Now, I will turn the conference over to Mr. Mariano Bosch, CEO. Mr. Bosch, you may begin your conference.
Speaker #2: Investors should understand that general economic conditions, industry conditions, and other operating factors could also affect the future results of Adecoagro, and could cause results to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements.
Speaker #2: Now, I'll turn the conference over to Mr. Mariano Bosch, CEO. Mr. Bosch, you may begin your conference.
Speaker #3: Good morning, and thank you for joining Adecoagro's Q2 2025 earnings call. Consolidating the adjusted EBITDA during the quarter reached $55 million, while year-to-date it amounted to $91 million.
Mariano Bosch: Good morning and thank you for joining Adecoagro S.A.'s 2025 second quarter results conference. Consolidated adjusted EBITDA during the quarter reached $55 million, while year-to-date amounted to $91 million. From the very beginning, we know that commodity prices and weather risks are two inherent risks in our space. Therefore, through the years, we set our minds on becoming the lowest cost producer while also diversifying our operations across geographies and products. We understood that this combination, along with the investment made to consolidate our asset base, would act as a natural hedge against these events and enable us to continue delivering results to our shareholders. These are the years when our sustainable production models are truly put to the test, together with our efforts in enhancing day-to-day efficiencies in order to overcome challenging scenarios like this one.
Speaker #3: From the very beginning, we know that commodity prices and weather risks are inherent risks in our space. Therefore, throughout the years, we set our minds on becoming the lowest-cost producer while also diversifying our operations across geographies and products.
Speaker #3: We understood that this combination, along with the investment made to consolidate our asset base, would act as a natural hedge against these events and enable us to continue delivering results to our shareholders.
Speaker #3: These are the years when our sustainable production models are truly put to the test. Together with our efforts in enhancing day-to-day efficiencies, we aim to overcome challenging scenarios like this one.
Speaker #3: In our sugar, ethanol, and energy business in Brazil, the weather has not been good to us. We experienced extreme dry weather and even a cold front in June in our operations.
Mariano Bosch: In our sugar, ethanol, and energy business in Brazil, weather has not been good to us. We experienced extreme dry weather and even a cold front in June in our operations. Despite this, our strategy of increasing year after year the size of our plantation to secure cane availability enables us to have our crushing forecast in line with the previous year. The same goes with the investment made to have a larger operational flexibility to produce both sugar and ethanol, and a storage capacity, which today grants us commercial flexibility to switch between products to always get the better margin and to stop production if needed. Going to our farming business in Argentina and Uruguay, we are focusing on the efficiencies in every stage of the value chain.
Speaker #3: Despite this, our strategy of increasing year-after-year the size of our plantation to secure KN availability enables us to have our crushing forecast in line with the previous year.
Speaker #3: The same goes for the investment made to have larger operational flexibility to produce both sugar and ethanol, and a storage capacity that today grants us commercial flexibility to switch between products to always achieve the better margin, and to stop production if needed.
Speaker #3: Going to our farming business in Argentina and Uruguay, we are focusing on the efficiencies in every stage of the value chain. In rice, prices have significantly come down.
Mariano Bosch: In rice, prices have significantly come down, but our work on seed genetics allows us to offer customized rice varieties at premium prices and cut into new markets, which in turn enables us to partially offset the drop in global prices. In dairy, thanks to our growing market presence, we are increasing the processing volumes in our industries, while we continue working on expanding our product portfolio to access new destinations. In the case of crops, we are finalizing a very challenging campaign in terms of prices and costs. Now, our focus is on the upcoming season, where our main goal is to improve the margins of each of our crops. As a consequence, we are reducing our lease area by approximately 30%. Before passing the word to Emilio Gnecco, a brief comment on the memorandum of understanding that we signed with Tether.
Speaker #3: But our work on seed genetics allows us to offer customized price varieties at premium prices and cut a new market. Which in turn enables us to partially offset the drop in global prices.
Speaker #3: In Davis, thanks to our growing market presence, we are increasing the processing volumes in our industries while we continue working on expanding our product portfolio to access new destinations.
Speaker #3: In the case of crops, we are finalizing a very challenging campaign in terms of prices and costs. Now, our focus is on the upcoming season, where our main goal is to improve the margins of each of our crops.
Speaker #3: As a consequence, we are reducing our leased area by approximately 30%. Before passing the word to Emilio, a brief comment on the Memorandum of Understanding that we signed with Tether.
Speaker #3: We are analyzing the possibility of using a portion of our energy production for Bitcoin mining. We are excited about this potentially innovative project, as it proves how cutting-edge technology and the agribusiness industry can join forces to maximize the value of our assets and production.
Mariano Bosch: We are analyzing the possibility of using a portion of our energy production for Bitcoin mining. We are excited about this potentially innovative project as it proves how cutting-edge technology and the agribusiness industry can join forces to maximize the value of our assets and production. Lastly, an update on sustainability. In mid-May, we published our 2024 integrated report in which we explain how, in our sector, sustainability is fully aligned with profitability. I would like to express my gratitude to all the people across Adecoagro S.A. These are the moments where our hard work and commitment ends up making the difference and allows us to be the lowest cost producers at all times. I am convinced that we have the right people and that we are following the right strategy to generate good returns and value for our shareholders.
Speaker #3: Lastly, an update on sustainability. In mid-May, we published our 2024 Integrated Report, in which we explain how, in our sector, sustainability is fully aligned with profitability.
Speaker #3: I would like to express my gratitude to all the people across Adecoagro. These are the moments where our hard work and commitment end up making the difference and allow us to be the lowest-cost producers at all times.
Speaker #3: I am convinced that we have the right people and that we are following the right strategy to generate good returns and value for our shareholders.
Speaker #3: Now, I will let Emilio walk you through the numbers of the quarter.
Mariano Bosch: Now, I will let Emilio Gnecco walk you through the numbers of the quarter.
Speaker #4: Thank you, Mariano. Good morning, everyone. Please turn to page four for a summary of our consolidated financial results. Sales totaled $392 million during the second quarter, while on an accumulated basis, they reached $716 million.
Emilio Gnecco: Thank you, Mariano. Good morning, everyone. Please turn to page four with a summary of our consolidated financial results. Sales totaled $392 million during the second quarter, while on an accumulated basis, they reached $716 million. Higher volumes sold across all our operations more than offset the lower prices seen for most of our products on a year-to-date basis. Adjusted EBITDA marked a 60% year-over-year decline in both periods, reaching $55 million during the quarter and $91 million year-to-date. Lower results were mainly explained by losses in our biological assets in line with our sugar, ethanol, and energy businesses on lower production, as well as in our crops and rice operations on lower prices. In addition, results were also negatively impacted by higher costs in U.S. dollar terms in our farming division, together with one-off expenses incurred by the company in connection with Tether's tender offer.
Speaker #4: Higher volumes sold across all our operations more than offset the lower prices seen for most of our products on a year-to-date basis. Adjusted EBITDA marked at 60% year-over-year decline in both periods.
Speaker #4: Reaching $55 million during the quarter and $91 million year-to-date, lower results were mainly explained by losses in our biological assets in line with our sugar, ethanol, and energy businesses on lower production, as well as in our crops and rice operations on lower prices.
Speaker #4: In addition, results were also negatively impacted by higher costs in U.S. dollar terms in our farming division, together with one-off expenses incurred by the company in connection with the Tether Standard Offer.
Speaker #4: Now, please turn to slide five. Regarding our production figures, on the bottom right chart, we can see that crushing volume in our sugar ethanol and energy business was 20% lower year-over-year due to a combination of less effective milling days during the second quarter and a selective slower milling pace adopted during the first months of the year.
Emilio Gnecco: Now, please turn to slide five. Regarding our production figures on the bottom right chart, we can see that crashing volume in our sugar, ethanol, and energy business was 20% lower year-over-year due to a combination of less effective milling days during the second quarter and a selective slower milling pace adopted during the first months of the year. On the other hand, total production in our farming business reported a 12% year-over-year increase explained by higher planted area, as well as a record productivity in our rice operations. In the case of crops, harvesting activities are almost complete for the 2024-25 season, and the average yield obtained was below our initial expectations. We will describe this in more detail during the presentation. Let's move to slide seven with the operational performance of our sugar, ethanol, and energy business.
Speaker #4: On the other hand, total production in our farming business reported a 12% year-over-year increase, explained by a higher planted area as well as record productivity in our rice operations.
Speaker #4: In the case of crops, harvesting activities are almost complete, for the 2024-25 season, and the average yield obtained was below our initial expectations. We will describe this in more detail during the presentation.
Speaker #4: Let's move to slide seven, which covers the operational performance of our sugar, ethanol, and energy business. After experiencing below-average rainfall during 2024 and early 2025, the precipitation received during April aided our sugar cane yields.
Emilio Gnecco: After experiencing below-average rainfall during 2024 and early 2025, precipitations received during April aided our sugar cane yields. Nevertheless, the distribution of rains led to a reduction in effective milling days and, consequently, a decrease in our crashing volumes during the quarter, which totaled 3.4 million tons. Although productivity indicators remain below the prior year due to the lagging effect of the dry weather explained before, this saw a significant improvement versus the first quarter of 2025 as anticipated. On a year-to-date basis, we have already crushed 4.9 million tons of cane, 20% less than the same period of last year. This was due to a selective slower crushing done in early 2025, focused on cane with limited growth potential and a rainy second quarter that consequently slowed down our crushing pace. In terms of mix, we continue to maximize sugar production throughout the year, given its attractive premium.
Speaker #4: Nevertheless, the distribution of rains led to a reduction in effective milling days and, consequently, a decrease in our crushing volumes during the quarter, which totaled 3.4 million tons.
Speaker #4: Although productivity indicators remain below the prior year due to the lagging effect of the dry weather explained before, this saw a significant improvement versus the first quarter of 2025, as anticipated.
Speaker #4: On a year-to-date basis, we have already crushed 4.9 million tons of cane, 20% less than the same period last year. This was due to a selective slower crushing done in early 2025, focused on cane with limited growth potential and a rainy second quarter that consequently slowed down our crushing pace.
Speaker #4: In terms of mix, we continue to maximize sugar production throughout the year, given its attractive premium. Within our ethanol production, we are maximizing the production of hydrous ethanol, given the better margin.
Emilio Gnecco: Within our ethanol production, we are maximizing the production of hydrous ethanol, given the better margin. Please turn to slide 8, where we describe sales conducted throughout the period. Net sales amounted to $183 million during the quarter, while year-to-date they reached $302 million. The overall increase in sales was fully explained by our commercial strategy to sell our carryover stock of ethanol from last year, as well as our dairy production, to profit from the recovery in prices and clear out our storage capacity. Consequently, we have already sold 320,000 cubic meters of ethanol at an average net selling price close to 2,700 Brazilian reais per cubic meter, 18% higher year-over-year. Regarding sugar, the combination of lower prices and the decline in production, given the lower crushing, were the main drivers towards the decline in sales year-to-date.
Speaker #4: Let's please turn to slide eight. Where we describe sales conducted throughout the period. Net sales amounted to 183 million dollars during the quarter, while year-to-date they reached 320 million dollars.
Speaker #4: The overall increase in sales was fully explained by our commercial strategy to sell our prior year overstock of ethanol from last year, as well as our daily production, to profit from the recovery in prices and clear out our storage capacity.
Speaker #4: Consequently, we have already sold 320,000 cubic meters of ethanol at an average net selling price close to R$2,700 per cubic meter, 18% higher year-over-year.
Speaker #4: Regarding sugar, the combination of lower prices and the decline in production, given the lower crushing, were the main drivers towards the decline in sales year-to-date.
Speaker #4: Nevertheless, we were able to profit from the sale of bagged VHP during the quarter, which commanded a premium over spot prices. In the case of energy, higher selling prices more than offset the decline in volume exported driven by the lower milling year-to-date.
Emilio Gnecco: Nevertheless, we were able to profit from the sale of packed VHP during the quarter, which commanded a premium over spot prices. In the case of energy, higher selling prices more than offset the decline in volume exported, driven the lower milling year-to-date. Regarding carbon credits, we sold over 390,000 cebayos at an average price of $10 per cebayo, reaching $4 million in revenues. Please go to page 9, where we would like to present the financial performance of the sugar, ethanol, and energy business. Adjusted EBITDA amounted to $68 million during the second quarter and $98 million for the first half of the year.
Speaker #4: Regarding carbon credits, we sold over 390,000 CVOS at an average price of $10 per CVO, reaching $4 million in revenues. Please go to page nine, where we would like to present the financial performance of the sugar, ethanol, and energy business.
Speaker #4: Adjusted EBITDA amounted to $608 million during the second quarter and $98 million for the first half of the year. Despite presenting higher sales, results were mainly offset by year-over-year losses in the mark-to-market of our biological assets on lower volume of harvested cane, together with year-over-year losses in the mark-to-market of our commodity hedge position, due to less gains presented compared to the same period of last year.
Emilio Gnecco: Despite presenting higher sales, results were mainly offset by year-over-year losses in the mark-to-market of our biological assets on lower volume of harvested cane, together with year-over-year losses in the mark-to-market of our commodity hedge position, due to less gains presented compared to the same period of last year. Finally, to conclude with the sugar, ethanol, and energy business, please turn to slide 10, where we would like to briefly talk about the current outlook. As explained in prior releases, our sugar cane plantation has gone through different weather events throughout the last year and a half. However, our annual crushing forecast remains unchanged, thanks to, first, our continuous harvest model that enables us to flexibly advance or delay harvesting activities, together with higher cane availability due to the expansion planting made during the last years, as well as to higher sourcing of third-party cane.
Speaker #4: Finally, to conclude with the sugar, ethanol, and energy business, please turn to slide ten, where we would like to briefly talk about the current outlook.
Speaker #4: As explained in prior releases, our sugar cane plantation has gone through different weather events throughout the last year and a half. However, our annual crushing forecast remains unchanged, thanks to, first, our continuous harvest model that enabled us to flexibly advance or delay harvesting activities, together with higher cane availability due to the expansion planting made during the last years, as well as to higher sourcing of third-party cane.
Emilio Gnecco: This, in turn, will result in flat to slightly higher cash costs versus the previous year. From a commercial point of view, we are constructive on both sugar and ethanol prices for the upcoming months, as we still have the flexibility to switch our maximization strategy to always produce the product that offers the highest marginal contribution. In the case of sugar, we still have a portion of our 2025 sugar production still unhedged and no commitments for the next year in order to profit from any upside in spot prices, as the global supply and demand balance continues to rely on Brazil's production. In ethanol, inventory levels are considerably below the prior year, and the industry continues to prioritize sugar production due to its premium.
Speaker #4: This, in turn, will result in flat to slightly higher cash costs versus the previous year. From a commercial point of view, we are constructive on both sugar and ethanol prices for the upcoming months, as we still have the flexibility to switch our maximization strategy to always produce the product that offers the highest marginal contribution.
Speaker #4: In the case of sugar, we still have a portion of our 2025 sugar production unhedged, and no commitment for the next year in order to profit from any upside in spot prices, as the global supply and demand balance continues to rely on Brazil's production.
Speaker #4: In ethanol, inventory levels are considerably below the prior year, and the industry continues to prioritize sugar production due to its premium. On the demand side, parity at the pump continues to favor ethanol consumption, and new demand has emerged with the implementation of the E30 mandate.
Emilio Gnecco: On the demand side, parity at the pump continues to favor ethanol consumption, and new demand has emerged with the implementation of the E30 mandate. Therefore, any decline in crushing volume could further pressure this tight scenario. Now, we would like to move on to the farming business. Please go to slide 12. As of the beginning of August, we harvested 97% of the total area and produced over 1.2 million tons of agricultural produce. The remaining hectares are expected to be fully harvested during the rest of this month. Despite the precipitations received from February onwards, some of our crops were impacted by periods of dry weather and high temperatures, excess rainfall, or even below-average temperatures. Therefore, average yields for this harvest season ended up below our initial expectations, in line to below historical average.
Speaker #4: Therefore, any decline in crushing volume could further pressure these tight scenarios. Now, we would like to move on to the farming business. Please go to slide twelve.
Speaker #4: As of the beginning of August, we harvested 97% of the total area and produced over 1.2 million tons of agricultural produce. The remaining hectares are expected to be fully harvested during the rest of this month.
Speaker #4: Despite the precipitations received from February onwards, some of our crops were impacted by previous dry weather, high temperatures, excess rainfall, or even below-average temperatures.
Speaker #4: Therefore, average yields for this harvest season ended up below our initial expectations, in line with or below historical averages. In rice, our work on seed genetics and the implementation of new technologies resulted in an average yield of 8 tons per hectare, setting a new record for this business.
Emilio Gnecco: In rice, our work on seed genetics and the implementation of new technologies resulted in an average yield of eight tons per hectare, a new record for this business. In the case of dairy, we are working on reversing the decline in cow productivity seen year-to-date. At the industry level, we continue to maximize the production of UHC milk for the domestic market, a product that offers the highest marginal contribution while developing our brand portfolio across several markets. To conclude, we began planting activities for our next campaign, starting with wheat and other winter crops. We are foreseeing a reduction in planted area of approximately 20,000 hectares versus the prior campaign, due to our decision to reduce our exposure in the northern region of the country, as well as to diminish the amount of lease area to improve crops' margins.
Speaker #4: In the case of dairy, we are working on reversing the decline in cow productivity seen year-to-date. At the industry level, we continue to maximize the production of UHC milk for the domestic market, a product that offers the highest marginal contribution while developing our brand portfolio across several markets.
Speaker #4: To conclude, we began planting activities for our next campaign, starting with wheat and other winter crops. We are foreseeing a reduction in planted area of approximately 20,000 hectares versus the prior campaign due to our decision to reduce our exposure in the northern region of the country, as well as to diminish the amount of leased area to improve crops' margins.
Speaker #4: On the following page thirteen, we present the financial performance of our farming business. Adjusted EBITDA for the farming business totaled $1 million during the quarter, whereas year-to-date it amounted to $18 million.
Emilio Gnecco: On the following page 13, we present the financial performance of our farming business. Adjusted EBITDA for the farming business totaled $1 million during the quarter, whereas year-to-date amounted to $18 million. Starting with our crops segment, the year-over-year decrease in results was mainly driven by an uneven year-over-year comparison, as in April of 2024, we sold La Pecuária farm, which generated $15 million in adjusted EBITDA. Furthermore, results were also impacted by lower international prices, lower than expected productivity, and higher costs in U.S. dollar terms, which combined continued to pressure margins during the period, mainly for our peanut production. Moving on to rice, the decline in adjusted EBITDA during both periods was mostly explained by the outlier prices reported the prior year, coupled with higher costs in U.S. dollar terms, which in turn fully offset the record production at the farm level.
Speaker #4: Starting with our crops segment, the year-over-year decrease in results was mainly driven by an uneven year-over-year comparison. In April of 2024, we sold La Pecuaria Farm, which generated $15 million in adjusted EBITDA.
Speaker #4: Furthermore, results were also impacted by lower international prices, lower than expected productivity, and higher costs in US dollar terms, which combined, continued to pressure margins during the period, mainly for our peanut production.
Speaker #4: Moving on to rice, the decline in adjusted EBITDA during both periods was mostly explained by the outlier prices reported in the prior year, coupled with higher costs in US dollar terms, which fully offset the record production at the farm level.
Speaker #4: Lastly, adjusted EBITDA generation in our dairy business was impacted by higher costs in U.S. dollar terms, despite the increase in volume sold and our work toward improving the mix of higher value-added products and maximizing the production of fluid milk for the domestic market.
Emilio Gnecco: Lastly, adjusted EBITDA generation in our dairy business was impacted by higher costs in U.S. dollar terms, despite the increase in volumes sold, and our work towards improving the mix of higher value-added products and maximizing the production of fluid milk for the domestic market. Please turn to page 15 for a broader view of our debt position. Net debt amounted to $699 million, 11% higher year-over-year. This was due to higher short-term borrowings raised to finance working capital in our farming business, given the lower results presented at a consolidated level. Consequently, our net leverage ratio stood at 2.3 times, one turn more than the same period of last year. Despite the increase, we continue with our disciplined capital allocation strategy, which also includes investing in growth projects with attractive returns and distributing cash to shareholders while keeping financial flexibility and a strong balance sheet.
Speaker #4: Please turn to page fifteen for a broader view of our debt position. Net debt amounted to $699 million, 11% higher year-over-year. This was due to higher short-term borrowings raised to finance working capital in our farming business, given the lower results presented at a consolidated level.
Speaker #4: Consequently, our net leverage ratio stood at 2.3 times, one term higher than the same period last year. Despite the increase, we continue with our disciplined capital allocation strategy, which also includes investing in growth projects with attractive returns and distributing cash to shareholders while maintaining financial flexibility and a strong balance sheet.
Speaker #4: Subsequent to the end of the quarter, we completed the issuance of a $500 million bond with a seven-year tenor and a 7.5% coupon. A portion of these proceeds was used to partially tender our 2027 senior notes, totaling $150 million.
Emilio Gnecco: Subsequent to the end of the quarter, we completed the issuance of a $500 million bond with a seven-year tenor and a 7.5% cube. A portion of these proceeds was used to partially tender our 2027 senior notes, totaling $150 million. This transaction proves our constant work towards anticipating our debt maturities and therefore having most of our debt in the long term. As an example, the average life of our debt, which got extended from 2.5 years to 4.5 years. On the following slide, we describe our CapEx program. Expansion CapEx represented $23 million during the quarter and $53 million on an accumulated basis. In Brazil, expansion CapEx was mostly allocated to increasing our sugar cane plantation size and expanding our harvesting equipment with the acquisition of two row harvesters and grown trucks.
Speaker #4: This transaction proved our constant work towards anticipating our debt maturities and therefore having most of our debt in the long term. As an example, the average life of our debt was extended from 2.5 years to 4.5 years.
Speaker #4: On the following slide, we describe our CapEx program. Expansion CapEx represented $23 million during the quarter and $53 million on an accumulated basis.
Speaker #4: In Brazil, expansion CapEx was mostly allocated to increasing our sugarcane plantation size and expanding our harvesting equipment with the acquisition of two-row harvesters and grower trucks.
Speaker #4: In our farming business, our main CapEx program consisted of the development of rice production areas, the expansion of our Powerball production capacity at the San Salvador Rice Mill, and some industrial improvements in our Monteros milk processing facility.
Emilio Gnecco: In our farming business, our main CapEx program consisted in the development of rice production areas, the expansion of our parboiled production capacity at San Salvador Rice Mill, and some industrial improvements in our Moteros milk processing facility. Let's turn to page 17, where we would like to present our shareholder distribution year-to-date. As of this date, we have already committed $45 million to shareholder distribution. From this amount, $35 million in dividends were approved. The first installment of $17.5 million was paid in May, representing approximately $0.175 per share, while the second installment will be payable during November in an equal cash amount. In addition, we have already repurchased $10 million in shares under our buyback program, representing approximately 1.1% of the company's equity. Thank you very much for your time. We will now open the call to questions.
Speaker #4: Let's turn to page seventeen, where we would like to present our shareholder distribution year-to-date. As of this date, we have already committed $45 million to shareholder distribution.
Speaker #4: From this amount, $35 million in dividends were approved. The first installment of $17.5 million was paid in May, representing approximately $0.175 per share, while the second installment will be payable in November in an equal cash amount.
Speaker #4: In addition, we have already repurchased $10 million in shares under our buyback program, representing approximately 1.1% of the company's equity. Thank you very much for your time.
Speaker #4: We will now open the call to questions.
Speaker #2: Thank you. The floor is now open for questions. If you have a question, please write it down in the Q&A section or click on "Raise Hand" for audio questions.
Operator: Thank you. The floor is now open for questions. If you have a question, please write it down in the Q&A section or click on raise hand for audio questions. Please remember that your company's name should be visible for your question to be taken. We do ask that when you pose your question, you pick up your headset to provide optimum sound quality. Please hold while we poll for questions. Our first question comes from Gustavo Troyano with Itaú BBA.
Speaker #2: Please remember that your company's name should be visible for your question to be taken. We do ask that when you pose your question, you pick up your headset to provide optimum sound quality.
Speaker #2: Please hold while we poll for questions. Our first question comes from Gustavo Troiano with Itaú BBA.
Speaker #5: Hello, everyone. Thanks for taking my question. Actually, I have two points to explore with you guys. Both of them relate to the sugar and ethanol business. In the earnings report and also earlier in the call, you mentioned that we should expect similar crushing figures year-over-year.
Analyst: Hello, everyone. Thanks for taking my question. Actually, I have two points to explore with you guys, both of them in the sugar and ethanol business. In the earnings report and also earlier in the call, you mentioned that we should expect similar crushing figures year over year for the full year, despite this lower than anticipated start of the season. Right? I just wanted to catch up with you guys. What are the main drivers behind this crushing acceleration expected for the second half? In which direction do you believe there could be an asymmetry here for crushing figures for 2025 full year? My second question is on sugar prices. You already mentioned that you are constructive with both sugar and ethanol prices, but I just wanted to hear from you, what are the main triggers or timing for us to see better sugar prices going forward?
Speaker #5: For the full year, despite the slower-than-anticipated start of the season, right? So, I just wanted to catch up with you guys. What are the main drivers behind this crushing acceleration expected for the second half?
Speaker #5: And in which direction do you believe there could be an asymmetry here for crushing figures for the full year 2025? And the second question on sugar prices.
Speaker #5: You already mentioned that you are constructive with both sugar and ethanol prices, but I just wanted to hear from you. What are the main triggers or timing for us to see better sugar prices going forward?
Speaker #5: And you also mentioned in the earnings release that there are no hedging commitments for 2026 at this point, so I think it could be useful for us to understand a little bit of timing.
Analyst: You also mentioned in the earnings release that there are no hedging commitments for 2026 at this point. I think it could be useful for us to understand a little bit of timing so we can anticipate a little bit of when you guys intend to start these commitments for 2026. Thank you very much.
Speaker #5: So, can we anticipate a little bit about when you intend to start these commitments for 2026? Thank you very much.
Speaker #6: Thank you, Gustavo, for your question. Renato can answer both of them. Renato?
Mariano Bosch: Thank you, Gustavo, for your question. Renato can answer both of them. Renato?
Speaker #7: Thank you, Gustavo, for your question. Regarding the crushing, as Emilio mentioned, we had a difficult first quarter, especially because of last year's drought.
Renato Junqueira Pereira: Thank you, Gustavo, for your question. Regarding the crushing, as Emilio mentioned, we had a difficult first quarter, especially because of the drought of last year. The second quarter, the crushing was impacted by the rains in April. But afterwards, we have been crushing very well. Actually, in July, we crushed more than 1.5 million tons of sugar cane, and we have been crushing a lot in August as well. Actually, we reached our daily record last week. We have been crushing very fast. We think that it is still possible to crush the same amount of sugar cane that we crushed last year. We are going to be very similar to what we have crushed last year.
Speaker #7: And the second quarter was in the crushing was impacted by the rains in April. But afterwards, we have been crushing very well. Actually, in July, we crushed more than 1.5 million tons of sugar cane.
Speaker #7: And we have been crushing a lot in August as well. Actually, we reached our daily record last week, so we have been crushing very fast.
Speaker #7: So, we think that it is still possible to crush the same amount of sugar cane that we crushed last year. Therefore, we're going to be very similar to what we have crushed last year.
Speaker #7: And we think that the yields in the last quarter are going to be much better than the yields that we have been obtaining now and in Q3 because of the frost that we had.
Renato Junqueira Pereira: We think that the yields in the last quarter are going to be much better than the yields that we have been obtaining now and in the third quarter because of the frost that we had. That is why we are optimistic about reaching the same level of crushing. Regarding the price of sugar and ethanol, we think that we are optimistic in both cases, especially in the short term. In the case of ethanol, the demand is still very strong. Hydro's demand is almost 2 billion liters per month. Part is still favoring ethanol consumption. Part at the pump is at 66%. We had the E30 addition in August, which represents approximately 700 million liters in additional demand.
Speaker #7: So that's why we are optimistic about reaching the same level of crushing. Regarding the price of sugar and ethanol, we think that we are optimistic in both cases, especially in the short term.
Speaker #7: In the case of ethanol, the demand is still very strong. Hydrous demand is almost 2 billion liters per month, and part is still favoring ethanol consumption.
Speaker #7: Part at the pump is at 66%. We had the E30 addition in August, which represents approximately 700 million liters in additional demand. We think that the amount of sugar cane that Brazil will crush this year is going to be lower because we have been seeing lower TRS content and also yields in all the sugar cane areas in Brazil.
Renato Junqueira Pereira: We think that the sugar cane, the amount of sugar cane that Brazil will crush this year is going to be lower because we have been seeing lower TRS content and also yields in all the sugar cane areas in Brazil. The mills in most areas are maximizing sugar, so less ethanol supply. If you take the level of stocks today, it is 30% lower than the same period last year. That is why we think that the price of ethanol is going to increase. We are building inventories to sell our stocks more towards the end of the year. We think that there is an upside between 5% and 10%, considering the current price levels. In the case of sugar, we are also optimistic.
Speaker #7: So the mills in most areas are maximizing sugar, leading to a reduced ethanol supply. If you take the level of stocks today, they are 30% lower than the same period last year.
Speaker #7: So that's why we think that the price of ethanol is going to increase. We are building inventories to sell our stocks more toward the end of the year.
Speaker #7: We think that there is an upside between 5% and 10% considering the current price levels. In the case of sugar, we are also optimistic.
Speaker #7: We think that the price of sugar is under pressure in the short term because of the fund's high short position and the Brazilian higher sugar mix. However, as I mentioned, the TRS and the yields are lower than expected.
Renato Junqueira Pereira: We think that the price of sugar is under pressure in the short term because of the fund's high short position and because of the Brazilian higher sugar mix. But as I mentioned, the TRS and the yields are lower than expected. Actually, the TRS per hectare is 15% lower than the same period of last year. We think that the amount of sugar that Brazil is going to produce is lower than initially expected. The world is still very dependent on the Brazilian sugar. We think that the price is going to react, and we are going to see more opportunities to hedge our remaining part of the sugar of this year and also the sugar for next year. It is very important to mention that since the beginning of July, we are maximizing ethanol in Mato Grosso do Sul.
Speaker #7: Actually, the TRS per hectare is 15% lower than the same period of last year, so we think that the amount of sugar that Brazil is going to produce is lower than initially expected.
Speaker #7: And the world is still very dependent on Brazilian sugar. So we think that the price is going to react, and we are going to see more opportunities to hedge our remaining part of the sugar for this year and also the sugar for next year.
Speaker #7: And I think it's very important to mention that since the beginning of July, we are maximizing ethanol. In Mato Grosso do Sul, if you consider the tax season in Mato Grosso do Sul and the appreciation of the Brazilian real, the price in Mato Grosso do Sul, the hydrous ethanol part in Mato Grosso do Sul is close to 18.5 cents per pound.
Renato Junqueira Pereira: If you consider the tax season in Mato Grosso do Sul and the appreciation of the Brazilian real, the parity in Mato Grosso do Sul, the Hydro's ethanol parity in Mato Grosso do Sul is close to $0.185 per pound. That is why we are maximizing ethanol. That is why we are so positive in both products.
Speaker #7: So that's why we are maximizing ethanol. So that's why we are positive in both products.
Speaker #5: That's super clear. Thank you very much.
Mariano Bosch: is super clear. Thank you very much.
Speaker #2: Our next question comes from Thiago Duarte with BTG. You can open your microphone.
Operator: Our next question comes from Tiago Duarte with BTG. You can open your microphone.
Speaker #5: Hey, hello guys. Good morning, everybody. Thanks for taking the question. Yeah, I have a question on sugar and ethanol, and then a follow-up on Renato's comments just now, right?
Analyst: Hello, guys. Good morning, everybody. Thanks for taking the question. I have a question on sugar and ethanol, and then a follow-up on Renato Junqueira Pereira's comments just now. The question is about the quality of the cane. Renato Junqueira Pereira just mentioned a few points about TRS per tonne being lowered across the center-south of Brazil and trying to sort of add up to your guidance of keeping the cane crushing volumes flat this year relative to last year. If I understand correctly, the reason why you believe you are going to be able to crush as much as you did last year is because your harvest area is still significantly lower year-over-year, and then you expect to catch up. This is being compensated by the fact that yields are lower as well. Just to understand, just to clarify if that is the reasoning.
Speaker #5: The question is about the quality of the cane. Renato just mentioned a few points about TRS per ton being lowered across the Center-South of Brazil.
Speaker #5: And trying to sort of add up to your guidance of keeping the cane crushing volumes flat this year relative to last year. So if I understand correctly, the reason why you believe you're going to be able to crush as much as you did last year is because your harvest area is still significantly lower year over year?
Speaker #5: And then you expect to catch up. But obviously, this is being compensated by the fact that yields are lower as well.
Speaker #5: Right? So just to understand, just to sort of clarify if that's the reasoning, you expect a higher area and lower yields for the full year of 2025 relative to 2024.
Analyst: You expect a higher area and lower yields for the full year of 2025 relative to 2024. Perhaps this explains why you are expecting unitary costs to be flat or up this year relative to last year. That would be the first question. The follow-up is regarding the figure Renato Junqueira Pereira just mentioned. You said that because of the tax incentives and the freight costs and everything, your ethanol equivalent, sugar equivalent price in Mato Grosso do Sul is over 18 cents a pound. My question to you on that is, how do you think that applies to not only other mills in Mato Grosso do Sul, but also other mills located outside of São Paulo? Think of Minas Gerais or Goiás or even the state of Mato Grosso, which I believe face similar sugar and ethanol price equivalent trade-offs as you guys.
Speaker #5: And perhaps this explains why you're re expecting unitary costs to be flat or up this year relative to last year. So that would be the first question.
Speaker #5: And the follow-up is regarding the figure Renato just mentioned. So, you said that because of the tax incentives and the freight costs and everything, your ethanol equivalent sugar equivalent price in Mato Grosso do Sul is over 18 cents a pound, right?
Speaker #5: So my question to you on that is: how do you think that applies to not only other mills in Mato Grosso do Sul, but also to other mills located outside of São Paulo?
Speaker #5: So think of Minas Gerais, Goiás, or even the state of Mato Grosso, which I believe face a similar sugar and ethanol price equivalent trade-off as you guys.
Speaker #5: So my question is whether you think other mills will not be maximizing the sugar in the second half of 2025 relative to ethanol because of the sugar price right now?
Analyst: My question is actually whether you think other mills will not be maximizing the sugar in the second half of 2025 relative to ethanol because of the sugar price right now. Thank you.
Speaker #5: Thank you.
Speaker #6: Hi, Thiago. Thank you for your questions. Regarding the first question, we think that the yield is going to be very similar to the yield that we had last year.
Renato Junqueira Pereira: Hi, Tiago. Thank you for your questions. Regarding the first question, we think that the yield is going to be very similar to the yield that we had last year. So the area is going to be a bit higher because we are going to acquire a bit less third-party sugar cane. But the yield is going to be, I would say, flat year-over-year. We think that the TRS content is going to be slightly lower than last year, especially because of the frost and the sugar cane that we have been crushing in July and August. Because when we have a frost, we are obligated to harvest the sugar cane before the ideal period. So that is the reason why TRS content should be lower.
Speaker #6: The area is going to be a bit higher because we are going to acquire a bit less third-party sugar cane. But the yield is going to be, I would say, flat year over year.
Speaker #6: We think that the TRS content is going to be slightly lower than last year, especially because of the frost and the sugar cane that we have been crushing in July and August.
Speaker #6: Because when we have a frost, we are obligated to harvest the sugar cane before the ideal period. So that's the reason why TRS content should be lower.
Speaker #6: Regarding the second part of your question, we think that the mills that are in the same situation that we are—those that have the same ICMS system and the same distance to the port—should do the same strategy that we are doing.
Renato Junqueira Pereira: Regarding the second part of your question, we think that the mills that are in the same situation that we are, that they have the same ICMS system and the same distance to the port, should do the same strategy that we are doing. I do not know precisely how much it represents, but I think it is rational to do what we are doing now, that is maximizing ethanol over sugar.
Speaker #6: I don't know precisely how much it represents, but I think it's rational to do what we are doing now. That is maximizing ethanol over sugar.
Speaker #5: Thank you. When you think of maximizing ethanol versus sugar for the full year of 2025, do you have a rough estimate of how much that means in terms of mix: ethanol versus sugar?
Analyst: Thank you. When you think of maximizing ethanol versus sugar for the full year of 2025, do you have like a rough estimate of how much that means in terms of mix, ethanol versus sugar?
Speaker #6: Yes, I think this is a good point. But it's difficult to say because we start maximizing sugar in Minas Gerais in our mill in Minas Gerais, we are still maximizing sugar.
Renato Junqueira Pereira: Yes, I think this is a good point, but it's difficult to say because we start maximizing sugar. In Minas Gerais, in our mill in Minas Gerais, we are still maximizing sugar. So the final number will depend on how it progresses from now on. I think in Mato Grosso do Sul, when we have a full year maximizing ethanol, we have 70% of potential to produce ethanol. This year, considering what has already happened, we think that we are going to finish the year in Mato Grosso do Sul with 60% max ethanol.
Speaker #6: So the final number will depend on how it progresses from now on. I think in Mato Grosso do Sul, when we have a full year maximizing ethanol, we had 70% of the potential to produce ethanol.
Speaker #6: This year, considering what has already happened, we think that we are going to finish the year in Mato Grosso do Sul with 60% maximum ethanol.
Speaker #5: Very clear. Thank you, Renato.
Analyst: Very clear. Thank you, Renato.
Speaker #2: Our next question comes from Lucas Ferreira with JP Morgan. You can open your microphone.
Operator: Our next question comes from Lucas Ferreira with JPMorgan. You can open your microphone.
Speaker #5: Hi, everyone. I have two questions. The first one is still on the sugar and ethanol business. Renato, can you discuss a little bit, in your view, what will be the trigger for you guys to start hedging next season?
Analyst: Hi, everyone. I have two questions. The first one is still on the sugar and ethanol business. Renato, can you discuss a little bit, in your view, what will be the trigger for you guys to start hedging next season? In other words, do you expect that the sugar market should, at some point, react to what is, in your view and several of other sugar and ethanol producers, a weaker cane quality coming into the season? So what's the time you guys think of moving ahead with the hedges, independent of the scenario? In your view, what's the trigger for sugar prices to move from here? My second question is regarding if you can speak a little bit about how Tether entering the group changed or not the way you guys think about strategy. You know, Adecoagro S.A.
Speaker #5: In other words, do you expect that the sugar market should at some point react to what is, in your view and that of several other sugar and ethanol producers, a weaker cane quality coming into the season?
Speaker #5: So what's the time you guys think of moving ahead with the hedges, independent of the scenario in your view? What's the trigger for sugar prices to move from here?
Speaker #5: The second question is regarding whether you can speak a little bit about how the better entering the group changed or not the way you guys think about the strategy already announced MOU that you mentioned in the beginning.
Analyst: already announced the memorandum of understanding that you mentioned in the beginning. So how to think about the way you guys think about growth strategy from now and you analyze projects, the scope of investments, or how Tether is helping and reshaping or not the way you guys think about growth? If you can comment, that would be great. Thank you.
Speaker #5: So, how do you think about the way you guys approach growth strategy from now on? How do you analyze projects, the scope of investments, and how Tether is helping to reshape, or not reshape, the way you guys think about growth?
Speaker #5: And if you can comment on that, that would be great. Thank you.
Speaker #6: Thank you, Lucas, for your question. Renato will answer the sugar and ethanol, and then I will take the Tether question. Renato?
Mariano Bosch: Thank you, Lucas, for your question. Renato will answer the sugar and ethanol, and then I will take the third question. Renato?
Speaker #7: Hi, Lucas. As I mentioned before, we think that the sugar price could react in the short term. Considering the impact of the Brazilian crop, both in yield and TRS content, as I was mentioning, if you compare to last year, we had 15% less TRS per hectare than last year.
Renato Junqueira Pereira: Hi, Lucas. As I mentioned before, we think that the sugar price could react in the short term, considering the impact of the Brazilian crop, both in yield and TRS content. As I was mentioning, if you compare to last year, we had 15% less TRS per hectare than last year. We think that the market did not realize it yet. I think as UNIQA is going to start to release the numbers in August, September, this is going to be more clear and price should react, then we should accelerate our hedging for next year. I think it is important to mention that we have already hedged 5% of our next year position at 17.8 cents per pound. We did this last week. Also, as I mentioned earlier, we have the flexibility to change the mix towards ethanol much before the other players.
Speaker #7: We think that the market didn't realize it yet. I think as Unica is going to start to release the numbers in August and September, this is going to be more clear.
Speaker #7: And price should react. Then we should accelerate our hedging for next year. I think it's important to mention that we have already hedged 5% of our next year's position.
Speaker #7: That's 17.8 cents per pound. We did this last week. And, as I mentioned earlier, we also have the flexibility to change the mix towards ethanol much earlier than the other players.
Speaker #7: So we are always more open in terms of hedging than the other players because we have, this, I would say, higher flexibility. If you take the same period of last year, we were in a position very similar or even lower than the hedge position that we have today.
Renato Junqueira Pereira: So we are always more open in terms of hedging than the other players because we have this, I would say, higher flexibility. If you take the same period of last year, we were in a position very similar or even lower than the hedge position that we have today.
Speaker #5: Okay, thank you, Renato. Lucas, regarding Tether and the new shareholder, as we expressed since the very beginning, we are very happy with them as a shareholder.
Mariano Bosch: Okay. Thank you, Renato. Lucas, regarding Tether and the new shareholder, as we expressed since the very beginning, we are very happy with them as a shareholder. We have already gone through two board meetings. We have our new board with five new members and four of the existing ones. So they are supporting and enhancing the culture of the company, this culture of being very disciplined on our capital allocation. All the projects we are looking for, this organic growth, what Emilio just expressed on which are the projects, we are following each one of them and what are the returns and the level of returns and what are the synergies that we are getting within each one of them. Also the focus on the day-to-day of the business. We are going through lower results to what we were projecting, as you can see in the returns.
Speaker #5: We have already gone through two board meetings. We have our new board with five new members and three of the existing ones.
Speaker #5: So, they are supporting and enhancing the culture of the company. This culture of being very disciplined on our capital allocation, so all the projects we are looking for this organic growth, what Emilio just expressed on which are the projects, we are following each one of them and what are the returns and the level of returns and how, what are the synergies that we are getting within each one of them.
Speaker #5: And then also the focus on the day-to-day of the business. We are going through lower results than what we were projecting, as you can see in the returns.
Speaker #5: And as you know about the catch of this company that we focus on this day-to-day and the level of returns that we need to achieve.
Mariano Bosch: As you know about the culture of this company, we focus on this day-to-day and the level of returns that we need to achieve. We are very happy with the support we are having with our new shareholder on following this strategy and culture that we have as a company. Very specific on this test on Bitcoin mining that we are doing is a test. This is 5% of the energy that we are generating in Mato Grosso do Sul. So it's a clear test, but we are enthusiastic on the potential returns we can get there. Looks like they are very attractive, but we need to see them. As part of the culture, this new shareholder also wants us to continue with this idea of making things happen and then continue growing once we see the returns and we can be sure about what we are doing.
Speaker #5: We are very happy with the support we are receiving from our new shareholder in following this strategy and culture that we have as a company.
Speaker #5: And then, very specifically on this test on Bitcoin mining that we are doing, this is 5% of the energy that we are generating in Mato Grosso do Sul.
Speaker #5: So it's a clear test, but we are enthusiastic on the potential returns we can get there. Looks like they are very attractive, but we need to see them and as part of the culture and this new shareholder also wants us to continue with this idea of making things happen and then continue growing once we see the returns and we can be sure about what we are doing.
Speaker #5: So, as a whole, we are really happy with what's going on with the company as of today. Thank you very much, you both.
Mariano Bosch: As a whole, we are really happy with what's going on with the company as of today.
Renato Junqueira Pereira: Thank you very much to both.
Speaker #2: Once again, if you have a question, please write it down in the Q&A section or click on 'Raise Hand' for audio questions. Our next question comes from Mateus Einfeld with UBS.
Operator: Once again, if you have a question, please write it down in the Q&A section or click on raise hand for audio questions. Our next question comes from Mateus Einfeld with UBS.
Speaker #5: Hi, good morning. Thanks for your time and for taking my questions. If I could move forward to the crops business, particularly farming in general, I mean, we've seen pressure on margins coming, particularly from costs.
Analyst: Hi. Good morning. Thanks for your time in taking my questions. If I could move forward to the crops business, particularly farming in general, we have seen pressure in margins coming, particularly from cost, in an environment where we are likely to see prices remain sideways for a good while, at least in our view. My question here is how you are seeing costs advance from here if we could expect a normalization into the second half of this year and into 2026. If there are any developments on OpEx efficiency and CapEx efficiency that the company may look for, given the tightness in margins that we are seeing for the business. That is my first question. My second question is a follow-up from the previous question on changes in strategy and the direction that the company is taking.
Speaker #5: In an environment where we're likely to see prices remain sideways for a good while, at least in our view. So my question here is: how are you seeing costs advance from here if we expect a normalization into the second half of this year, extending into 2026?
Speaker #5: If there are any developments on OPEX efficiency and CAPEX efficiency, does the company maybe look for, given the tightness in margins that we're seeing for the business?
Speaker #5: So that's my first question. And then my second question, sort of a follow-up from the previous question, on changes in strategy and the direction that the company is taking.
Speaker #5: I acknowledge that leverage is perhaps a bit higher than everyone was expecting. But there are a number of opportunities for M&A in the sector, particularly in sugar and ethanol oil in Brazil.
Analyst: I acknowledge that leverage is perhaps a bit higher than everyone was expecting, but there are a number of opportunities for M&A in the sector, particularly in sugar and ethanol in Brazil, if this is a direction that the company could consider. If not M&A in Brazil, then if there is a preferred sector for inorganic growth that we could see at least being studied from Europe. Those are my two questions. Thank you.
Speaker #5: If this is the direction that the company could consider, and if not M&A in Brazil, then is there a preferred sector for inorganic growth that we could see at least being studied from here?
Speaker #5: So those are my two questions. Thank you.
Speaker #6: Thank you, Mateus, for your question. Regarding farming in Argentina and Uruguay, I would like to divide the whole farming aspect into three business segments that we have.
Mariano Bosch: Thank you, Mateus, for your question. On the farming in Argentina and Uruguay, in the whole farming side, I would like to divide it into the three business segments that we have. We have the dairy business. In that specific case, we are not having the problem of prices and costs. That business is aligned to what was the previous year and improving organically. There is not an issue in that specific business. On the second one that is on the rice, there is a huge drop in terms of prices. Even though we have a very good low-cost production system for rice, and we also have diversified, as Emilio Gnecco was explaining, diversified the varieties to get better prices than the average price of the long rice, the overall prices are coming down and we cannot do much in that regard.
Speaker #6: We have the daily business that in that specific case, we are not having the problem of prices and costs. So that business is aligned to what was the previous year and improving organically.
Speaker #6: So, there’s not an issue in that specific business. Then, on the second one, that is on the rice, there is a huge drop in terms of prices.
Speaker #6: So, even though we have a very good low-cost production system for rice, and we have also diversified, as Emilio was explaining, the varieties to get better prices than the average price of long rice, the overall prices are coming down, and we cannot do much in that regard.
Speaker #6: So in terms of the total cost, we are improving them. And so that business, we continue to see relatively sustainable, and maybe somewhat lower than the previous year, but for the following year, we can see it again at a similar level.
Mariano Bosch: In terms of the total cost, we are improving them. That business, we continue to see it relatively sustainable and maybe some way lower than the previous year, but for the following year, we can see it again at the similar level. The rice business as a whole is going through difficulties, but not that significant. Although prices of long rice have gone down 50%. It is a really relevant case, the long rice prices. Finally, the crop segment that is the one that is going really through difficulties, in this case, is soybean, corn, wheat, and peanuts. The more relevant one is peanut. Peanut is the one that is affecting us more and is probably the more relevant of the four crops. That drop in prices of 40% in peanuts is the one that is really affecting the margins that we are getting.
Speaker #6: So the rice business as a whole is going through difficulties, but not that significant. Low prices of long rice have gone down 50%. So it's a really relevant case the long rice prices.
Speaker #6: And then finally, the crop segment that is the one that is going really through difficulties. In this case, it's soybean, corn, wheat, and peanuts.
Speaker #6: The more relevant one is peanut. Peanut is the one that is affecting us more and is probably the more relevant of the four crops.
Speaker #6: So that drop in prices of 40% in peanuts is the one that is really affecting the margins that we are getting. So these four crops go all in a specific rotation and is what we call the segment crops.
Mariano Bosch: These four crops go all in a specific rotation and is what we call the segment crops. In that segment crops, the year that we are showing the numbers is the campaign that is finishing. Now we are starting to plan the new campaign. For the new campaign, we started renegotiating leases of the land five months ago. Those leases, we are taking them down. We need to adjust costs and we are working on reducing the total cost, where leases is one of the key elements of reduction of cost. Because of this reduction of leases, this year, we will be planting 30 to 35 hectares less than the previous year. This business as a whole is being reduced because of the results and the returns that we are getting there. That is clearly what is going on and how we are going through that.
Speaker #6: In that segment, crops, the year that we are showing the numbers is the campaign that is finishing. And now we are starting to plant the new campaign.
Speaker #6: For the new campaign, we started renegotiating leases of the land five months ago. So those leases we are taking down. We need to adjust costs, and we are working on reducing the total cost, where leases are one of the key elements of cost reduction.
Speaker #6: Because of this reduction of leases, this year we will be planting 30 to 35 hectares less than the previous year. So, this business as a whole is being reduced because of the results and the returns that we are getting there.
Speaker #6: So that is clearly what's going on and how we are going through that. You were asking about the CAPEX and OPEX in rice and daily in both we've been doing more CAPEX and OPEX than crops in the last two years.
Mariano Bosch: You were asking about the CapEx and OpEx in rice and dairy, that in both we have been doing more CapEx and OpEx than crops in the last two years. Those things are also the ones that are helping us on this lowest cost of production or reaching margins even lower because of the drop on prices, but still reaching positive margins. That is, as a whole, the farming answering the farming business and how we see the future of this. Going back to the other question and our strategy regarding leverage, today, as you mentioned, we are increasing leverage. The main increase is because of the reduction of EBITDA. The main increase is in times EBITDA because of this reduction in EBITDA and as a percentage, the total debt is increasing, but not really relevant. We expect to end the year at around the 2 times EBITDA.
Speaker #6: Those things are also helping us achieve a lower cost of production and reaching margins even lower because of the drop in prices.
Speaker #6: But still reaching positive margins. That is, as a whole, the farming business. And how we see the future of this. And then going back to the other question regarding our strategy on leverage.
Speaker #6: Today, as you mentioned, we are increasing leverage. The main increase is because of the reduction of a BDA. So, the main increase is in times EBITDA because of this reduction in EBITDA and as a percentage.
Speaker #6: The total debt is increasing, but it's not really relevant. We expect to end the year at around two times EBITDA; that's where we feel comfortable.
Mariano Bosch: That is where we feel comfortable. Above 2 times EBITDA, we have always said that we have this internal policy that we do not like to be above that limit. Even having said this and regarding your question about potentially doing something around the sugar and ethanol business, because there are so many things for sale in the space because of these more difficult results, we are always looking at them. We are growing on our organic basis, but we are also looking at potential inorganic growth. In order to get some of this inorganic growth, the returns have to be even higher than the returns that we can see in our organic growth. Are we analyzing? Yes. Are we going to close something? We have no idea.
Speaker #6: Above two times EBITDA, we've always said that we have this internal policy that we don't like to be above that level. Even having said this and regarding your question about potentially doing something around the sugar and and ethanol, the sugar and ethanol business, because there are so many things for sale in the space, because of this more difficult results, we are always looking at them.
Speaker #6: We are growing on an organic basis, but we are also looking at potential inorganic growth. In order to achieve some of this inorganic growth, the returns have to be even higher than the returns that we can see in our organic growth.
Speaker #6: So, are we analyzing? Yes. Are we going to close something? We have no idea. The returns have to be very, very clear and attractive in order to move forward there and be above three times EBITDA because we always want to be above two times EBITDA, as we always want to avoid going below that level.
Mariano Bosch: The returns have to be very, very clear and attractive in order to move forward there and be above the 3 times EBITDA because we always want to be above the 2 times EBITDA because we always want to go below that level. That is a quick answer to your question on this regard.
Speaker #6: So that is a quick answer to your question on this regard.
Speaker #5: Thank you. That was super clear. Thank you.
Analyst: Thank you. That was super clear. Thank you.
Speaker #2: Once again, if you have a question, please write it down in the Q&A section or click on 'Raise Hand' for audio questions. Our next question comes from Isabela Simonato with Bank of America.
Operator: Once again, if you have a question, please write it down in the Q&A section or click on raise hand for audio questions. Our next question comes from Isabella Simonato with Bank of America. You can open your microphone.
Speaker #2: You can open your microphone.
Speaker #8: Hi, good morning, everyone. Thank you for the call. Two questions. First of them, first of all, can you give a little bit more details about the the partnership right to mine Bitcoin in the and use the energy right in the operation?
Isabella Simonato: Hi. Good morning, everyone. Thank you for the call. Two questions. First of all, can you give a little bit more details about the partnership to mine Bitcoin and use the energy in the operation? So any disclosure on the terms, the length of the contract, and how should it essentially work? I think it is helpful to understand. Second, more on the shareholder structure and ultimately the impact that we are seeing on the stock liquidity recently. How is the company seeing that? Especially Tether, regarding the liquidity of the shares, is there anything in mind to eventually change that somehow? Thank you.
Speaker #8: So, any disclosure on the terms, the length of the contract, and how it should essentially work? I think it's helpful to understand. And second, more on the shareholder structure, right? Ultimately, what is the impact that we're seeing on the stock liquidity recently?
Speaker #8: How is the company seeing that? And especially Tether, right, regarding the liquidity of the shares? Is there anything in mind to eventually change that somehow?
Speaker #8: Thank you.
Speaker #6: Thank you, Isabela, for your question. In terms of the liquidity of the shares, you can see that the liquidity is pretty reasonable. According to our history over the last 11 years as a public company, we are above the average trading volume that we've had during the entire history of the company.
Mariano Bosch: Thank you, Isabella, for your question. In terms of the liquidity of the shares, you can see that the liquidity is being pretty reasonable. According to our history of the last 11 years being a public company, we are above the average trading volume that we have been having during the whole history of the company. We are not seeing any issues as of today regarding this. Regarding the details of the partnership for Bitcoin mining, this is a test. This is 5% of the energy that we are producing. We want to make it happen. We do not have clarity yet on how to make it happen and how this agreement will exactly be. But we see this as a potential interest in ending up selling our energy at a very attractive price.
Speaker #6: So, we are not seeing any issues as of today regarding this. Regarding the details of the partnership for Bitcoin mining, this is a test.
Speaker #6: This is 5% of the energy that we are producing. And so we want to make it happen. We don't have clarity yet on how to make it happen and how this agreement will exactly be.
Speaker #6: But we see this as a potential interest in ending up selling our energy at a very attractive price. So, as of our own calculations, as of today, it's—I don't want to mention it, but it's like selling at above $80 per megawatt-hour.
Mariano Bosch: As of our own calculations, as of today, it is like I do not want to mention it, but it is like selling at above $80 per megawatt hour. That is what makes us think about this as something potentially very attractive. But we want to make it happen in order to see if this $80 or $100 or $120 that we are targeting today as a potential sale are possible or not. That will depend on a lot of things that have to happen. We need to understand all those conversions and see them happening. That is a quick answer to this thing that we are enthusiastic on happening.
Speaker #6: And so that is what makes us think about this as something potentially very attractive. But we want to make it happen in order to see if this $80, $100, or $120 that we are targeting today as a potential sale are possible or not.
Speaker #6: So, that will depend on a lot of things that have to happen. We need to understand all those conversions and see them happening.
Speaker #6: So, that's a quick answer to this thing that we are enthusiastic about happening.
Speaker #8: Okay. Thank you very much.
Isabella Simonato: Okay. Thank you very much.
Speaker #2: Thank you. This concludes the question and answer section at this time. I would like to turn the floor back to Mr. Bosch for any closing remarks.
Operator: Thank you. This concludes the question and answer section. At this time, I would like to turn the floor back to Mr. Bosch for any closing remarks.
Speaker #6: Thank you all for joining the call. I hope to see you in our next meetings.
Mariano Bosch: Thank you all for joining the call and hope to see you in our next meetings.
Operator: Thank you. This concludes today's presentation. You may now disconnect at this time and have a nice day.
Speaker 8: Goodbye.