Q2 2026 SFC Energy AG Earnings Call

August 14, 2026

Operator: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the SFC Energy AG publication of the H1 report 2026 conference call. I would like to remind you that all participants will be in listen-only mode and the conference is being recorded. The presentation will be followed by a Q&A session. You can register for questions at any time by pressing star and one on your telephone. For operator assistance, please press star and zero. The conference must not be recorded for publication or broadcast. At this time, it is my pleasure to hand over to Dr. Peter Podesser, CEO. Please go ahead, sir.

Speaker #1: The presentation will be followed by a Q&A session. You can register for questions at any time by pressing star and one on your telephone. For operator assistance, please press star and zero.

Speaker #1: The conference must not be recorded for publication or broadcast. At this time, it's my pleasure to hand over to Dr. Peter Podesser, CEO. Please go ahead, sir.

Speaker #2: Thank you very much, George, for the kind introduction. Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for taking the time and joining us here for our half-year results, as well as for the discussion and presentation of our second quarter results here in 2026.

Peter Podesser: Thank you very much, George, for the kind introduction. Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. Thanks for taking the time and joining us here for our H1 results, but also for naturally the discussion and presentation of our Q2 results here in 2026. We are obviously happy to present a good set of numbers. We are looking back at the best six months of our company since inception, and we are looking at an exceptionally strong Q2 here in terms of revenue, about 20% above our previous record quarter, but also naturally translating into a significant improvement and strong increase in profitability. Some of the highlights here, doubling EBITDA on adjusted basis compared to last year and also more than tripling the EBIT by itself is a positive fact.

Speaker #2: We are obviously happy to present a good set of numbers. We are looking back at the best six months of our company since inception.

Peter Podesser: We are looking back at the best six months of our company since inception, and we are looking at an exceptionally strong Q2 here in terms of revenue, about 20% above our previous record quarter, but also naturally translating into a significant improvement and strong increase in profitability. Some of the highlights here, doubling EBITDA on adjusted basis compared to last year and also more than tripling the EBIT by itself is a positive fact.

Speaker #2: And we are looking at an exceptionally strong Q2 here in terms of revenue—about 20% above our previous record quarter—but also naturally translating into a significant improvement and strong increase in profitability.

Speaker #2: Some of the highlights here—yeah, doubling EBITDA on an adjusted basis compared to last year, and also more than tripling the EBIT by itself is a positive fact.

Speaker #2: We also look at an increase of revenue by about 12%, where we have to see that the second quarter was here having the key impact.

Peter Podesser: We also looked at an increase of revenue by about 12%, where we have to see that the Q2 was here having the key impact. Apart from naturally looking back, I think looking ahead, a significant increase in order intake to more than EUR 108 million compared to EUR 43.6 million last year, and also a solid backlog still now at the middle of the year, are also the basis for us being able to narrow the guidance upward here within the previously increased ranges. Before going now into all the financial details, let me put the results here in perspective. Very clear, the market entry into the Ukraine has and will have also within the year, a boosting effect. But overall, this is following naturally the strategic positioning here of ourselves in structurally growing energy markets.

Speaker #2: Apart from naturally looking back, I think, looking ahead, a significant increase in order intake to more than €108 million compared to €43.6 million last year.

Speaker #2: And also, a solid backlog still now at the middle of the year is also the basis for us being able to narrow the guidance upward here within the previously increased ranges.

Speaker #2: Before going now into all the financial details, I think, let me put the results here in perspective. It is very clear the market entry into Ukraine has and will have, also within the year, a boosting effect, but overall, this is following naturally the strategic positioning here of ourselves in structurally growing energy markets.

Peter Podesser: Before going now into all the financial details, let me put the results here in perspective. Very clear, the market entry into the Ukraine has and will have also within the year, a boosting effect. But overall, this is following naturally the strategic positioning here of ourselves in structurally growing energy markets.

Speaker #2: It also shows a scalability of the business model, as mentioned, with an acceleration in profitability. If we look at the background here, especially on the defense and security part of the business, what we are witnessing is a different format of combat, a different format of warfare—strongly unmanned and most of it electrically powered.

Peter Podesser: It also shows a scalability of the business model, as mentioned, with an acceleration in profitability. If we look at the background here, especially on the defense and security part of the business, what we are witnessing is a different format of combat, a different format of warfare. Strongly unmanned, and most of it electrically powered, so all going electric, if we put this in more generic terms. At the same time, in a very dynamic, agile, and mobile way of implementation. All these requirements, all these changes are a very good fit for our fuel cell-based energy supply. We are able to easily and fast deploy and move. We have a long-lasting and longer-lasting than conventional sources, energy source. I think the element that we are not generating, or we are virtually not generating signature, neither temperature nor noise, is the changing element.

Speaker #2: So, all going electric, if we put this in more generic terms, and at the same time, in a very dynamic, agile, and mobile way of implementation.

Speaker #2: All these requirements, all these changes, are a very good fit for our fuel cell-based energy supply. We're able to easily and quickly deploy and move. We have a long-lasting, and longer-lasting than conventional sources, energy source. And I think the element that we are not generating, or we are virtually not generating, any signature—neither temperature nor noise—is the changing element. This means low to no detectability and, therefore, a significant increase in the safety of all the operators.

Peter Podesser: All these requirements, all these changes are a very good fit for our fuel cell-based energy supply. We are able to easily and fast deploy and move. We have a long-lasting and longer-lasting than conventional sources, energy source. I think the element that we are not generating, or we are virtually not generating signature, neither temperature nor noise, is the changing element.

Peter Podesser: This means low to no detectability, and therefore a significant increase of safety of all the operators. So what we've witnessed here, and I think the examples we are getting here, especially also from Ukraine, but also other parts of our business, is we are moving from a nice-to-have to a must-have. Beyond the fact that we are naturally happy with, let's say, a successful market entry here in the Ukraine, and the deployment is happening as we speak, and I'll get back to the next steps here in Ukraine in terms of what does it now need to perpetuate this kind of entry success. Let us also look into some of the other markets.

Speaker #2: So what we witness here and I think the the examples we are getting here especially also from Ukraine but also other parts of our business is we are moving from a nice to have to a must have.

Speaker #2: But beyond the fact that we are naturally happy with, let's say, a successful market entry here in Ukraine, and the deployment is happening as we speak—and I'll get back to the next steps here in Ukraine in terms of what it now needs to perpetuate this kind of entry success.

Peter Podesser: Beyond the fact that we are naturally happy with, let's say, a successful market entry here in the Ukraine, and the deployment is happening as we speak, and I'll get back to the next steps here in Ukraine in terms of what does it now need to perpetuate this kind of entry success. Let us also look into some of the other markets.

Speaker #2: Let us also look into some of the other markets. If we look into our industrial fuel cell business—reliable, resilient, long-lasting, and commercially viable off-grid and backup power for areas like civilian security, all our CCTV customers, critical infrastructure backup power, and also all our sensing and monitoring solutions—here, looking into the European part of the business and also what we are witnessing, especially, for example, in Singapore, we are looking at a range of growth of 10 to 20, some of it 25% growth. Solid momentum, solid demand there.

Peter Podesser: If we look into our industrial fuel cell business, reliable, resilient, long-lasting, and commercially viable off-grid and backup power for areas like civilian security, all our CCTV customers, critical infrastructure, backup power, and also all our sensing and monitoring solutions here, looking into the European part of the business and also what we are witnessing, especially, for example, in Singapore, we are looking at the range of growth of 10% to 20%, some of it 25% growth. Solid momentum, solid demand there. Oil and gas for both segments, the Clean Energy with the fuel cell-powered solutions, and also the Clean Power Management with our Variable Frequency Drive business there. Canadian oil and gas business based naturally also on the raw material and commodity pricing having a solid performance.

Speaker #2: Oil and gas for both segments—the clean energy with the fuel cell-powered solutions and also the clean power management with our frequency drive business there.

Speaker #2: The Canadian oil and gas business, based naturally also on the raw material and commodity pricing, had a solid performance. Yeah, we had to also see some impact—and Daniel will relate back to this later—with some negative currency effects, but solid development there.

Peter Podesser: Yeah, we had to also see some impact, and Daniel will relate back to this later with some negative currency effect, but a solid development there. Still, with all the good news, I think it is even more important to look at the areas where we feel we are not at target, not at plan. Not happy with the power management business for the time being compared to the plan here in Europe, although we have to say we had a very strong H1 last year, and we are not quite at this level. But we are also seeing a softer demand from our largest customer, them facing some soft demand in their end markets. Factoring this in for the remaining part of the year, we are seeing already an uptick in their forecast here.

Speaker #2: Still, with all the good news, I think it's even more important to look at the areas where we feel we are not at target, not at plan.

Speaker #2: Not happy with the power management business for the time being a compared to the plan here in Europe although we have to say we had a very strong first half year last year and we are not quite at this level but we also seeing a softer demand from our our largest customer them facing some soft demand in in their end markets factoring this in for the for the remaining part of the year we are seeing already an uptick in in their forecast here.

Speaker #2: So we are not expecting an immediate change here but we are factoring this in into our year-end forecast here. The other area if we look at the regional business here in the US customer diversification is the most important strategic initiative there here branching out from a I'd say initial customer here in the in the CCTV sector we are now seeing let's say half a dozen to 10 leading CCTV mobile security players being already repeat customers also a first timer here entering into Amazon MSU division here with with initial systems I think is an inspiring fact.

Peter Podesser: So we are not expecting an immediate change here, but we are factoring this in into our year-end forecast here. The other area, if we look at the regional business here in the US, customer diversification is the most important strategic initiative there here. Branching out from, I would say, initial customer here in the CCTV sector, we are now seeing, let us say, half a dozen to 10 leading CCTV mobile security players being already repeat customers. Also a first timer here entering into Amazon MSU division here with initial systems, I think is an inspiring fact. But at the same time, we have to see volume-wise, we are lagging behind here. Means there is room to improve, and we will focus here in the next six to 12 months to catch up and create the right momentum.

Speaker #2: But at the same time, we have to see, volume-wise, we are lagging behind here. This means there is room to improve, and we will focus here in the next 6 to 12 months to catch up and create the right momentum.

Speaker #2: Looking at India, after spending a couple of days together with our Indian partners here in July, I think we are seeing the right signs of, call it, recovery.

Peter Podesser: Looking at India, after spending a couple of days together with our Indian partners here in July, I think we are seeing the right signs of, call it recovery. We are seeing a reinitiation of procurement here in our existing programs. We are seeing new programs coming up. The expectation here is higher order activity now in Q3, Q4, and especially also in Q1 of 2027, all factored into our overall forecast. Coming back to Ukraine. As said before, the sequence is clear. We are right now in the phase of deploy, we are in the phase of train, and we are building up training support and backup activities and structures locally. We are talking about the training elements here, including naturally standard activities like documentation, videos, all in local language. But we are also talking about different local structures, redundant structures.

Speaker #2: We are seeing a reinitiation of procurement here in our existing programs. We are seeing new programs coming up. The expectation here is higher order activity now in Q3, Q4, and especially also in Q1 of '27, all factored into our overall forecast.

Speaker #2: Coming back to Ukraine, as I said before, the sequence is clear. We are right now in the phase of deploy. We are in the phase of crane.

Speaker #2: And we're building up training support and backup activities and structures locally. We are talking about the the the the training elements here including naturally standard activities like documentation videos all in local language but we also talking about different local structures redundant structures we are setting up separate locations here and well eventually in a in a in a case of emergency they also have to be mobile to a certain extent.

Peter Podesser: We are setting up separate locations here and well, eventually in a case of emergency, they also have to be mobile to a certain extent. This is happening as we speak, and I think we are progressing well now in Q3. The next step is a localization step, looking at local supply chain as other companies doing that too. And expanding our activities of sales also to other parts of the armed forces. Our team was there again now in summertime, and we are planning to get back end of the month. So this is where we see the need here in terms of further allocation of resources from our side in order to be able to continue with repeat business also in this market. Strategically, I think we have taken the time also to invest in our growth platform.

Speaker #2: This is happening as we speak, and I think we are progressing well now in Q3. The next step is a localization step, looking at the local supply chain, as other companies do it there, too.

Speaker #2: And expanding our sales activities also to other parts of the armed forces. Our team was there again now in summertime, and we are planning to get back at the end of the month.

Speaker #2: So this is where we see the need, in terms of further allocation of resources from our side, in order to be able to continue with repeat business also in this market.

Speaker #2: Strategically, I think we have taken the time also to invest in our growth platform. We were on site in Singapore with our partner, One Berry.

Peter Podesser: We were on site in Singapore with our partner, Oneberry. I think the investment is in good shape. We are seeing good activities. We are expecting 2026 on track. There are some larger opportunities in the pipeline here on a local basis for AI-based unmanned security systems. The collaboration with General Dynamics, we published this together here at Eurosatory, the first platform where our EMILY fuel cell is built in, is the PANDUR. We went to see the General Dynamics team last week in Vienna to talk about, let's say, marketing initiatives and the sales strategy here together with them. Last but not least, we are also delivering on our M&A strategy. Just a couple of weeks ago, on 2 July, we announced the acquisition of assets of Siqens, a company active, a specialist in reformed methanol fuel cell technology, a good complementary fit to us.

Speaker #2: I think the investment is in good shape. We're seeing good activities. We expect, in 2026, to be on track, and there are some larger opportunities in the pipeline here on a local basis for AI-based unmanned security systems.

Speaker #2: The collaboration with General Dynamics—we published this together here at Eurosatory. The first platform where our EMILY fuel cell is built in is the so-called Pandora.

Speaker #2: We went to see the General Dynamics team last week in Vienna to talk about, let's say, marketing initiatives and the sales strategy here together with them.

Speaker #2: Last but not least, we are also delivering on our M&A strategy. Just a couple of weeks ago, on the 2nd of July, we announced the acquisition of assets from a sequence company active especially in fuel cell, in reform methanol fuel cell technology—a good complementary fit for us. So, between one- and five-kilowatt solutions, being positioned between our direct methanol fuel cells and our hydrogen fuel cell solutions. In the end, this gives us good access to users who cannot, who are not allowed, or who are not willing to use hydrogen—so higher power methanol systems. Finally, also a consolidation activity here with an upcoming competitor. And besides the assets, we are particularly happy to have a team of experts here who joined us now in July, and integration is on its way. The target here is to get cost-neutral, with first projects being executed in 2027.

Peter Podesser: Between 1 and 5 kilowatt solutions being positioned between our direct methanol fuel cells and our hydrogen fuel cell solutions. At the end, giving us good access to users who cannot, who are not allowed, or who are not willing to use hydrogen, so higher power methanol systems. Finally, also a consolidation activity here with an upcoming competitor. Besides the assets, we are particularly happy to have a team of experts here who joined us now in July, and integration is on its way. Target here is to get cost neutral with first projects being executed in 2027. The product needs some touch-up and some finalization. I think that our experience from an industrial perspective is really helpful. If we look at the order part of the business, as mentioned before, we had an active H1 of the year with about EUR 108.6 million order intake.

Speaker #2: The product needs some touch-up and some finalization. I think there, our experience from an industrial perspective is really helpful. If we look at the order part of the business, as mentioned before, we had an active first half of the year with about €108.6 million order intake—well, compared to last year, a factor of 2.5x. But even if we net out the Ukrainian large project here, we would look at a factor of 1.5x.

Peter Podesser: Well, compared to last year, a factor of 2.5x. Even if we net out the Ukrainian large project here we would look at the factor of 1.5x. Also here one can see that we have the business growing also outside the Ukrainian project. Obviously, Clean Energy from a segment perspective is the growing element in the first 6 months, as mentioned, with 22.7% of growth, with a significant impact also from shipments to Ukraine, about EUR 22 million. Roughly half of the project was shipped by 30 June. The shortfall on the power management, I mentioned this already. I think two sides of this business, very solid and growing with the oil and gas market in Canada and the shortfall here in Europe.

Speaker #2: So also here, one can see that we have the business growing also outside the Ukrainian project. Obviously, clean energy, from a segment perspective, is the growing element in the first six months, as mentioned, with 2.

Speaker #2: 22.7% of growth with a significant impact also from shipments to Ukraine about 22 million. So roughly half of the project was shipped by 30th of June and the shortfall on the power management I mentioned this already I think two sides of this business very solid and and and growing with the with the oil and gas market in Canada and the shortfall here in Europe but also here I think factoring it into the outlook and seeing also an improvement of the forecast of our key customer here we we we see let's say the the turning point happening as we speak for the clean power management there is also one additional element that is I think worthwhile to mention we have our first OEM defense project in-house with a with a with a European OEM for high energy laser systems also for the defense use usually this is for for drone defense either platform based or or portable.

Peter Podesser: Also here, I think, factoring into the outlook and seeing also an improvement of the forecast of our key customer here, we see, let's say, the turning point happening as we speak. For the Clean Power Management, there is also one additional element that is, I think, worthwhile to mention. We have our first OEM defense project in-house with a European OEM for high energy laser systems, also for the defense use. Usually this is for drone defense, either platform-based or portable. Also there we expect some impact, maybe not in the short run here in the next couple of weeks, but then also over the next quarters. With this, I would like to hand over to Daniel to look into the earnings.

Speaker #2: So, also there, we expect some impact—maybe not in the short run, here in the next couple of weeks, but then also over the next quarters.

Speaker #2: With this, I would like to hand over to Daniel to look into the earnings.

Speaker #1: Thank you, Peter. Good morning, everybody. Thank you for joining our call. Let me run you quickly through our earnings, go through the margins a bit, touch on the cash flow, and give you some highlights and background on certain cost positions.

Daniel Saxena: Thank you, Peter. Good morning, everybody. Thank you for joining our call. Let me run you quickly through our earnings, through the margins, a bit on the cash flow, and give you some highlights and background on some cost positions. I think Peter already mentioned it, the growth momentum in Q2 as well as H1 were exceptionally strong, with regard to revenue, but also with regards to earnings and margins. These are reflecting on the one hand side, the strong growth and the performance, especially of the segment Clean Energy, as well as the attractive product mix that we had in H1 and Q2 with a high share of defense revenue coming from the Ukraine order. The results for our key KPIs across the board were very strong, exceptionally strong, I would even say.

Speaker #1: I think Peter already mentioned it the growth momentum in the second quarter as well as the first half year were exceptionally strong with regard to revenue but also with regards to earnings and margins and these are reflecting on the one hand side the strong growth and the performance especially of the segment clean energy as well as the attractive product mix that we had in the first half year and the second quarter with a high share of defense revenue coming from the Ukraine order.

Speaker #1: The results for our key KPIs across the board were very strong—exceptionally strong, I would even say. Revenue growth, Peter mentioned it: 12% half year on half year. We had a gross margin on the group level of 47.1%, which corresponds to a margin expansion of 4.6 percentage points compared to the first half year 2025.

Daniel Saxena: Revenue growth, Peter mentioned it, 12% half year on half year. We had a gross margin on the group level of 47.1%, which corresponds to a margin expansion of 4.6 percentage points compared to H1 2025. The EBITDA adjusted margins increased to 22%, which is a 10.8 percentage points margin expansion compared to the same period last year. We had an EBIT adjusted margin of 17%, which is also a 10.7% percentage point expansion compared to the same period of last year. We had a cash flow from operating activities which were EUR 4.6 million, and we had a very strong order backlog of EUR 105 million. Looking at the gross margin on group level, I mentioned before, very strong with 47.1%. This is also significantly above what we've seen for the full year last year.

Speaker #1: The EBITDA adjusted margins increased to 22%, which is a 10.8 percentage point margin expansion compared to the same period last year. We had an EBIT adjusted margin of 17%, which is also a 10.7 percentage point expansion compared to the same period of last year.

Speaker #1: We had a cash flow from operating activities of €4.6 million, and we had a very strong order backlog of €105 million.

Speaker #1: Looking at the gross margin on group level, I mentioned it before—very strong with 40.7%. This is also significantly above what we've seen for the full year last year. We consider this margin to be at a reasonably strong level, and, as Peter already touched on, there is upside potential in the segment Clean Power Management, where especially the notable drop in revenues led to a higher unit cost due to relatively higher production overhead per unit.

Daniel Saxena: We consider this margin to be on a reasonably strong level with apparently, and Peter already touched on that, upside potential in the segment Clean Power Management, where especially the notable drop in revenues led to a higher unit cost due to relative higher production overhead per unit. So that really reflected in the gross margin per segment. The gross margin is a segment Clean Energy well above 50% with 52.6%, also well above what we've seen in the last year. Whereas we had to realize a slight drop in the gross margin on the segment Clean Power Management, which going to 28.3%. That drop is really due to the lower revenue in the power management solutions, our Dutch/Romanian business, and that lower revenue always leads or tends to lead to a lower dilution of the manufacturing overhead.

Speaker #1: So that really reflected in the gross margin per segment. The gross margin in the clean energy segment was well above 50%, at 52.6%. Also, this is well above what we've seen in the last year.

Speaker #1: We had to realize a slight drop in the gross margin on the segment Clean Power Management, which went down to 28.3%. That drop is really due to the lower revenue in the Power Management Solutions, our Dutch/Romanian business, and the lower revenue always leads—or tends to lead—to a lower dilution of the manufacturing overhead.

Speaker #1: If you look at the group operating expenses below the gross margin, we see that the functional operation expenses decreased slightly year on year by 1.2%.

Daniel Saxena: If you look at the group operating expenses below the gross margin, we see that the functional operation expenses decreased slightly year on year by 1.2%. The biggest positive influence on the cost factors were in the G&A expenses and mostly due to lower spending on IT and the ERP implementation in H1. Remember in 2025, in H1, we really had a lot of spending on that one. We did streamline the cost where we made some advancement here. Of course, these costs will continue, will also occur in H2. We had some negative effects on our operating expenses in spite of the fact that they decreased slightly. One of them was an impairment of capitalized R&D expenses. The impairment was EUR 500,000.

Speaker #1: The biggest positive influence on the cost factors was in the G&A expenses, and mostly due to lower spending on IT and the ERP implementation in the first half of the year.

Speaker #1: Remember, in 2025, in the first half of the year, we really had a lot of spending on that one. We did streamline the cost, and we made some advancement here. Of course, these costs will also occur in the second half of the year.

Speaker #1: We had some negative effects on our operating expenses in spite of the fact that they decreased slightly. one of them was an impairment of capital capitalized R&D expenses the impairment was 500,000 expenses that why you see R&D expenses being slightly higher than what we expected and also what we've seen previously and subsequently also that impairment is shown in the depreciation that's why you would also see a slightly higher depreciation in the second quarter and the other negative effect were consultancy expenses of approximately 600,000 euros in context with clothing the Ukraine deals these are shown in sales and marketing expenses a lot of advisory a lot of legal expenses big contract a lot of consultancy expenses in context with closing that contract in the Ukraine.

Daniel Saxena: It is shown in the R&D expenses, that is why you see R&D expenses being slightly higher than what we expected and also what we have seen previously. Subsequently, also that impairment is shown in the depreciation. That is why you would also see a slightly higher depreciation in Q2. The other negative effect were consultancy expenses of approximately EUR 600,000 in context with closing the Ukraine deals. These are shown in sales and marketing expenses, a lot of advisory, a lot of legal expenses, big contract, a lot of consultancy expenses, in context with closing that contract in the Ukraine. If we look at the capitalization rate of our R&D expenses, 13% of our R&D spend were capitalized. That is still on the lower level, compared to 15% what we had in the last year, which already was on the lower level.

Speaker #1: If we look at the capitalization rate of our R&D expenses: so, 13% of our R&D spend was capitalized. That is still at a lower level compared to 15% that we had last year, which already was on the lower level. But for the time being, we assume that this will not change—we won't have a higher rate of capitalized R&D expenses in this year.

Daniel Saxena: For the time being, we assume that this will not change. We will not have a higher rate of capitalized R&D expenses in this year. When we look at the exchange rate income and losses, if you look at the net effect, we had a balanced result. We had a net gain of EUR 67,000, so basically, the result is zero, and that compares to EUR 2.6 million of net losses last year. So there you see that this will also contribute to the margin expansion on EBIT and EBITDA level. This brings us to our adjusted EBITDA. I mentioned it, 22.4% is the margin, corresponds to EUR 18.4 million. Solid increase. The increase in summary overtime, it is the very good performance of the segment, Clean Energy, driven by the product mix, by the revenue growth itself. The overall positive operating expense effect, operating leverage kicking in, especially in that segment.

Speaker #1: When we look at the exchange rate income and losses, and if you look at the net effect, we had a balanced result: we had a net gain of €67,000, so basically the result is zero. That compares to €2.6 million of net losses last year. So, there you see that this will also contribute to the margin expansion on EBIT and EBITDA level.

Speaker #1: That brings us to our adjusted EBITDA. As mentioned, the margin is 22.4%, which corresponds to €18.4 million—a solid, solid increase. To summarize the increase once more: it's the very good performance of the segment Clean Energy, driven by the product mix and by the revenue growth itself, as well as the overall positive operating expense effect, with operating leverage kicking in, especially in that segment. This also counteracts the lower margin of the segment Clean Power Management, which went in the opposite direction.

Daniel Saxena: Which also counteracts the lower margin of the segment, Clean Power Management, which went in the opposite direction. Depreciation. Total depreciation is EUR 4.4 million. Still, the structure of the depreciation is the same as we have seen in the previous quarters. About 40% is IFRS 16, i.e., lease accounting related. Slightly higher than what we have seen in the last year, simply because we are leasing or we have leased a new site in the Netherlands, which will bring these depreciation expenses slightly up. On top, as I mentioned before, you see the impairment of an R&D project in those depreciation costs. That brings us to the EBIT, adjusted EBIT, solid with EUR 14 million and giving us a margin of 17%.

Speaker #1: Depreciation total depreciation is 4.4 million still the structure of the depreciation is is is the same as we see in the previous quarters about 40% is either 16 I i.e. lease accounting related slightly higher than what we've seen in the last year simply because we are leasing or we have leased a new site in the Netherlands which will bring these depreciation expenses slightly up and on top as I mentioned before you see the impairment of an R&D project in those depreciation costs.

Speaker #1: That brings us to the EBIT adjusted EBIT solid with the 14 million and giving us a margin of 17%. Capex if we are if we exclude the investment in one very which happened early this year we'll and the IPAR 6 sim related capex expenses we had 1.4 million in PP&A in in equipment and machinery which is really a normal level nothing extraordinary or special there.

Daniel Saxena: CapEx, if we exclude the investment in Oneberry, which happened early this year, and the IFRS 16 related CapEx expenses, we had EUR 1.4 million in PP&E in equipment and machinery, which is really a normalized level, nothing extraordinary or special there. Cash flow. The operating cash flow before change in net working capital, were EUR 17.5 million, much stronger than what we have seen last year. If we look at the development of the working capital, the working capital ratio to last 12 months net sales increased to 42%. It is a little bit higher from what we have seen for the full last year, where we were at 37% with that ratio. The largest impact on the net working capital had a strong increase in accounts receivables with a negative cash impact of EUR 9.8 million. It has to do with the very strong revenues, especially towards the end of the quarter.

Speaker #1: Cash flow the operating cash flow before change in networking capital were 17.5 million euros much stronger than what we've seen last year if we look at the development of the working capital the working capital ratio to last 12 months net sales increased to 42% it's a little bit higher from what we've seen for the full last year where we were at 37% with that ratio and the largest impact on the networking capital had a strong increase in accounts receivables with a negative cash impact of 9.8 million euros it has to do with the the very strong revenues especially towards the end of the quarter our days of sales outstanding increased to 120 sorry 190 139 days we were looking at 120 22 in the last full year that number will go down in the next quarters as I said it really has to do with the strong rollout of sales at the end of the first half year.

Daniel Saxena: Our days of sales outstanding increased to 139 days. We were looking at 120, 122 in the last full year. That number will go down in the next quarters. As I said, it really has to do with the strong roll-off of sales at the end of the H1. We had a very small impact from an increase of inventory, about EUR 300,000. So by and large, inventory stayed at the same level. The inventory will decrease in Q3. Key reasons why the inventory stayed on the same level is that we purchased a lot of components in Q2 for delivering now the last part of the Ukraine order. So really this is what has been driving raw material and components.

Speaker #1: We had a very small impact from an increase of inventory — about €300,000 — so by and large, inventory stayed at the same level. That inventory will decrease in the third quarter. Key reasons why the inventory stayed at the same level are that we purchased a lot of components in the second quarter for delivering now the last part of the Ukraine order. So really, this is what has been driving raw material and components. On the other hand, we also purchased quite a bit of platinum in the second quarter, locking in on the relatively lower platinum prices. That platinum stock that we now have will carry us towards the end of the year, into the first quarter of 2027. So these are the key reasons why inventory has stayed more or less at the same level. Again, that will go down towards the end of this quarter and also towards the end of the year, and then we would see a release of cash.

Daniel Saxena: On the other hand, we also purchased quite a bit of platinum in Q2, locking in on the relative lower platinum prices. That platinum stock that we now have will carry us towards the end of the year into Q1 2027. So these are the key reasons why inventory has stayed more or less at the same level. Again, that will go down towards the end of this quarter and also towards the end of the year. Then we will see a release of cash. After tax payments and the change of inventory, we are looking at an operating cash flow of EUR 4.6 million, much better from what we have seen in the last year. Cash flow from financing activities, most related to IFRS 16 again to lease payments, was -1.9 million, slightly higher than what we have seen in the last year.

Speaker #1: after tax payments and the change of inventory we're looking at a operating cash flow from operate operating cash flow of 4.6 million euros much better from what we've seen in last year cash flow from financing activities most related to IPAR 6 stayed again to lease payments was negative 1.9 million slightly higher than what we've seen in the last year and then the change in cash we had minus 2.9 million euros driven largely by the networking capital development and also the capex especially investment in in one very so that brings us to our cash position cash freely available is 40 4 million euros the financial debt has decreased slightly never a big on our balance sheet as you know and have you seen our net debt in this case net cash position is as 41.2 million euros at the end of the first half year with a lot of payments coming in right now we will see this position to increase still very solid we're still very comfortable with this position and what this quick summary I will give it back to Peter Podesser.

Daniel Saxena: Then a change in cash. We had the -EUR 2.9 million, driven largely by the net working capital development, and also the CapEx, especially investment in Walbury. So that brings us to our cash position. Cash freely available is EUR 44 million. The financial debt has decreased slightly, never a big on our balance sheet, as you know, and as you have seen. Our net debt, in this case, net cash position is EUR 41.2 million at the end of the H1. With a lot of payments coming in right now, we will see this position to increase. Still very solid. We are still very comfortable with this position. With this quick summary, I will give it back to Peter Podesser.

Speaker #2: Thank you very much, Daniel. Well, now looking at the forecast, I think at the end, adding up the performance in the first half-year, seeing what are the expected deliveries, the current and the expected backlog, and the expected orders based on the order or project activity we are having, we see ourselves in a good position to, I'd say, narrow the forecast upwards on the basis of the raised guidance of May 12th.

Peter Podesser: Thank you very much, Daniel. Well, now looking at the forecast, I think at the end, adding up the performance in the H1, seeing what are the expected deliveries, the current and the expected, or the current backlog and the expected orders based on the order or project activity we are having. We see ourselves in a good position to, let us say, narrow the forecast upwards on the basis of the raised guidance of 12 May. So revenue, EUR 166 to 175 million. EBITDA in the upper half here of the previous guidance, EUR 31.5 to 34 million. Let us say the EBIT, both EBIT and EBITDA on adjusted basis as usual, is now expected in a corridor between EUR 21.5 to 25.5 million.

Speaker #2: So revenue 166 to 175 million EBITDA in the upper half here of the previous guidance 31.5 to 34 million and I'd say the EBIT both EBIT and EBITDA on adjusted basis as usual is now expected in a corridor between 21.5 to 25.5 million looking at all of this you see us really confident with this framework here but you see us also very focused and cautious and and conscious about some of the areas to improve I mentioned the power business I mentioned also the acceleration here of the diversification and scaling in the US we are expecting I think good order activity in Asia mentioning India and and Singapore here and for the US we should not forget that we are preparing for the re-entry into into the defense market we will be present as of next week here talking to key parties there so overall I think a lot of activity Ukraine again it's about deploy it's about train support and localize and new customers and all of this I think also leaves us in a situation where we still need to work on supply chain availability especially towards the year end because there's also one fact with let's say focus strongly on fast shipments here to to to the Ukraine in Q2 but also naturally partially in Q3 we were clearing out stock levels with a number of customers here apart from this business and well we did not leave any customer without products but naturally we we we brought down stock levels here in the chain two the customer and we are also expecting some catch-up effects here and all this together naturally leaves us with an element of assessment in autumn time to see whether there is still a headroom to to to work on the forecast we have noticed that that some of you have seen parts of it especially on the revenue side as conservative again we feel very confident with this framework right now and let us work and look at it again in autumn time.

Peter Podesser: Looking at all of this, you see us really confident with this framework here, but you see us also very focused and cautious and conscious about some of the areas to improve. I mentioned the power business. I mentioned also the acceleration here of the diversification and scaling in the US. We are expecting, I think, good order activity in Asia, mentioning India and Singapore here. For the US, we should not forget that we are preparing for the re-entry into the defense market. We will be present as of next week here talking to key parties there. Overall, I think a lot of activity. Ukraine, again, it is about deploy, it is about train, support, and localize and new customers. All of this, I think, also leaves us in a situation where we still need to work on supply chain availability, especially towards the year-end.

Peter Podesser: Because there is also one fact with, let us say, focus strongly on fast shipments here to the Ukraine in Q2, but also naturally partially in Q3. We were clearing out stock levels with a number of customers here apart from this business. Well, we did not leave any customer without products, but naturally, we brought down stock levels here in the chain to the customer, and we are also expecting some catch-up effects here. All this together naturally leaves us with an element of assessment in autumn time to see whether there is still a headroom to work on the forecast. We have noticed that some of you have seen parts of it, especially on the revenue side, as conservative. Again, we feel very confident with this framework right now, and let us work and look at it again in autumn time. Last one here.

Speaker #2: Lastly, we have also sent out a save-the-date for a Capital Markets Day planned on the 7th of October at our Swindon facility. We would welcome you all—in the best case, of course—to join us there in person, so we can show you the depth and breadth of our technological capabilities in membrane development and manufacturing. For those who cannot join us physically, it will also be a hybrid format. An official invitation will follow. If you could mark this in your calendars, we would be more than happy to welcome you there. With this, as always, we'll close here and open up the floor for Q&A.

Peter Podesser: We have also sent out a save the date here for a capital market day planned on 7 October in our Swindon facility. We would welcome you all in best case, naturally, physically there to show our capabilities, the technological depth and breadth we have there here on the membrane development at manufacturing. It naturally will be also a hybrid format here for those of you who cannot join us. An official invitation will follow. If you mark this in your calendars, we will be more than happy to welcome you there. With this, as always, we close here and open up the floor for Q&A. Thank you very much.

Speaker #2: Thank you very much.

Speaker #1: We will now begin the question and answer session. Anyone who wishes to ask a question may press star and one on their touch-tone telephone.

Operator: We will now begin the question and answer session. Anyone who wishes to ask a question may press star and 1 on their touch-tone telephone. You will hear a tone to confirm that you have entered the queue. If you wish to remove yourself from the question queue, you may press star and 2. Anyone who has a question may press star and 1 at this time. Our first question comes from Usama Tariq with ABN AMRO. Please go ahead.

Speaker #1: You will hear a tone to confirm that you have entered the queue. If you wish to remove yourself from the question queue, you may press star and two.

Speaker #1: Anyone who has a question may press star and one at this time. Our first question comes from Usama Tariq with ABN AMRO. Please go ahead.

Speaker #3: Hi, good morning, team. Thank you for the opportunity. I have two small questions. Number one is mostly housekeeping. So, for H2, it's the EBITDA—you still have €20 million sales coming from the Ukrainian order, if I calculate correctly.

Usama Tariq: Hi. Good morning, team. Thank you for the opportunity. I have two small questions. Number one is mostly housekeeping. For H2, the adjusted EBITDA, you still have EUR 20 million sales coming from the Ukrainian order, if I calculate correctly. But the guidance, the midpoint implies EUR 14.4 million. My question is, what is the reason for being slightly more conservative, in my view, especially on the adjusted EBITDA for this year? My second question, very quickly, would be with regards to 2027. I know it is a little bit early, but we have a very big order in 2026. Compared that to 2027, do you foresee any possibility that it would be repeated for other Ukrainian forces? Any color there would be really, really appreciated. Thank you.

Speaker #3: But the guidance at the midpoint implies €14.4 million. My question is: what is the reason for being, in my view, slightly more conservative—especially on the adjusted EBITDA for this year? And my second question, very quickly, would be with regards to 2027.

Speaker #3: I know it's a little bit early, but we have a very big order in 2026. Compared to that, do you foresee any possibility that it could be repeated for other Ukrainian forces in 2027?

Speaker #3: Any color there would be really, really appreciated. Thank you.

Speaker #2: Maybe I can I can start with the with the second one Usama. Thanks very much for joining us. well as mentioned before naturally there is a lot of focus here on on I'd say making sure we are creating the short-term and long-term basis here for repeating and perpetuating the business also in the Ukraine.

Peter Podesser: Maybe I can start with the second one, Usama. Thanks very much for joining us. Well, as mentioned before, naturally, there is a lot of focus here on, I would say, making sure we are creating the short-term and long-term basis here for repeating and perpetuating the business also in the Ukraine. Just making sure that users can make proper use of our products now in their day-to-day obligations. I think that is fully on its way. At the same time, we are, let us say, present there consistently and also travel there on a regular basis also to, again, look into expanding the customer base within the armed forces, but then also look at repeat possibilities. Financing from a German and European perspective has been, let us say, delayed over the last couple of weeks with all the changes in the leadership there.

Speaker #2: Just making sure that users can make proper use of our products now in their day-to-day obligations—I think that's fully on its way. At the same time, we are, let's say, present there consistently and also travel there on a regular basis to again look into expanding the customer base within the armed forces. But then, also look at repeat possibilities. Financing from a German and European perspective has been, let's say, delayed over the last couple of weeks with all the changes in the leadership there, but the decisions are there. The resources and the financial means will be there also in autumn time.

Peter Podesser: But the decisions are there, the resources and the financial means will be there also in autumn time. Here, overall, I think we need to work through the next couple of weeks and months to really assess what is the situation really for 2027. Overall, looking also at the demand outside of the Ukraine and our initiatives here on an industry basis as well as on a geographical basis. Naturally, we are looking at further growth there. For the assessment of the situation then in Ukraine, bear with us a couple of weeks. I think September, October timeframe, we should have a better picture here.

Speaker #2: So here overall I think we need to to work through the next couple of weeks and and months to really assess what is the situation really for 2027 overall looking also at the demand outside of of the Ukraine and and our initiatives here on a on a on a industry basis as well as on a geographical basis naturally we are looking at further growth there so for the assessment of of the situation then in Ukraine bear with us a couple of weeks I think September October time frame we should have a a better picture here.

Speaker #4: Hi Usama. So, with regards to the EBITDA guidance and the lower end, or the more conservative version as you said, well, the nature of the lower end is that it really reflects certain possible expenses and uncertainties that may or may not occur in the second half of the year.

Daniel Saxena: Hi, Usama. So with regards to the EBITDA guidance and the lower end or the more conservative version, as you said. Well, the nature of the lower end is that it really reflects certain possible expenses and uncertainties that may or may not occur in the second half of the year. If we take this a little bit apart, of course, lower end is always a function of also lower end of the revenues, also to the lower end of the revenues when we come to the segment in Clean Power Management. As I mentioned before, the impact of production overhead on that segment is a little bit higher than what we see in the segment Clean Energy. This is something we factor in when we look at the low end of the guidance.

Speaker #4: So if if if we take this a little bit apart of course low end is always a function of also lower end of the revenues also to the lower end of the revenues when we come to the segmentally power management as I mentioned before you know the the the impact of production overhead on that segment is a little bit higher than what we see in the segment clean energy so this is something we factor in when we look at the low end of the guidance also we are looking at potentially certain impairments on capitalized R&D expenses which we will see or will not see in the next two quarters something that we test every end of the quarter potentially higher IT spendings always in the third and the fourth quarter I would most likely see a bit of higher IT spending and that relates to the introduction of the ERP system towards the fourth quarter and of course Peter mentioned is also building up support function service functions in the Ukraine which is an investment on the operating expenses.

Daniel Saxena: Also, we are looking at potentially certain impairments on capitalized R&D expenses, which we will see or will not see in the next two quarters, something that we test every end of the quarter. Potentially higher IT spendings always in Q3 and Q4. I will most likely see a bit of higher IT spending, and that relates to the introduction of the ERP system towards Q4. Of course, Peter mentioned this, also building up support functions, service functions in the Ukraine, which is an investment on the operating expenses. Yes, could be conservative, but naturally the sum of those extraordinary, extra, whatever expenses is then reflected in that lower, more conservative end. That is really what we are doing.

Speaker #4: So yes, it could be conservative, but naturally, the sum of those extraordinary or extra expenses is then reflected in that lower, more conservative end. That's really what we're doing.

Speaker #3: Thank you. Thank you for the answer.

Usama Tariq: Thank you. Thank you for the answer.

Speaker #1: Our next question comes from Carsten von Blumenthal with First Berlin Equity Research. Please go ahead.

Operator: Our next question comes from Karsten von Blumenthal with First Berlin Equity Research. Please go ahead.

Speaker #5: Good morning, Peter. Good morning, Daniel. Congratulations on the excellent results. My first question is regarding Q4. Peter, you mentioned in the last call that you may face supply constraints, and in this call you again said that you are working on the supply chain. So, what is lacking in Q4, and what could be the revenue impact of supply constraints?

Karsten von Blumenthal: Good morning, Peter. Good morning, Daniel, and congratulations to the excellent results. My first question is regarding Q4. Peter, you mentioned in the last call that you may face supply constraints, and in this call you again said that you are working on the supply chain. What is lacking in Q4 and what could be the revenue impact of supply constraints?

Speaker #2: Good morning, Carsten. Thanks for being with us. I think, in the end, working on it consistently, also since the last time we spoke, it's not about our own production capacity. It is really specific components for our products where we are still in, let's say, the order phase. Some of the deliveries that I'd say have to land here latest by the end of September are not here yet.

Peter Podesser: Good morning, Carsten. Thanks for being with us. I think at the end, working on it consistently also since last time we spoke, it is not about our own production capacity. It is really specific components for our products where we still are in, let's say, the order phase and some of the deliveries that I'd say have to land here latest by end of September are not here yet. To clarify, with the current guidance, we feel very confident, so there is, let's say, supply chain constraints on the lower end factored in. Whether we will see and have some headroom here, I think that's, let's say, the element of change. What we see as a forecast here, and the ranges that we publish or have published this morning, we are safe on this one.

Speaker #2: But to clarify, with the current guidance, we feel very confident, and so there are, let's say, supply chain constraints on the lower end factored in. And whether we will see and have some headroom here, I think that's—I’d say—that's the element of change.

Speaker #2: So, what we see as a forecast here, and the ranges that we publish or have published this morning, we are safe on this one.

Speaker #5: Thanks for that. Next question is regarding the Ukraine contract. I was surprised to hear that you have already delivered €22 million—that is more than half—so can we expect that the rest will be delivered in Q3?

Karsten von Blumenthal: Thanks for that. Next question is regarding the Ukraine contract. I was surprised to hear that you have already delivered EUR 22 million. That is more than half. Can we expect that the rest will be delivered in Q3?

Speaker #2: Well I think that that the the element of urgency here is the need on the customer side and if you recall we also did compromise on some some capacity already in Q1 expecting a a a an even earlier closure of this contract and that's I think why we were able to ship approximately half of it.

Peter Podesser: Well, I think that the element of urgency here is the need on the customer side. If you recall, we also did compromise on some capacity already in Q1, expecting an even earlier closure of this contract. That's, I think, why we were able to ship approximately half of it. The expectation here would be that we can execute on, I would say, virtually most of it within end of September, given some residual revenues also in Q4. This is not yet fully, let's say, judgeable as we said, some of the material is still on its way in. We will see a significant part of it in Q3, which is already clear. So we are looking at, again, a very strong Q3.

Speaker #2: The expectation here would be that we can execute on, I would say, virtually most of it by the end of September, with some residual revenues also in Q4.

Speaker #2: This is not yet fully, I'd say, judgeable, as some, as we said, some of the material is still on its way in, but we will see a significant part of it in Q3, which is already clear.

Speaker #2: So we are looking at, again, a very strong Q3.

Speaker #5: And your capacity is sufficient to serve all your other clients?

Karsten von Blumenthal: Your capacity is sufficient to serve all your other clients?

Speaker #2: That's exactly the point and and and what I I I mentioned before and try to explain I think we are managing this to the best we can we cannot let's say leave long-term growing customers here with without the rate level of attention and without the shipments of product and that's why we are balancing this but with this also we are we are clearing stock positions here throughout the whole chain until the end user and this will result in in some catch-up effect also in Q4.

Peter Podesser: That is exactly the point, and what I mentioned before and tried to explain. I think we are managing this to the best we can. We cannot, let us say, leave long-term growing customers here without the right level of attention and without the shipments of product, and that is why we are balancing this. But with this also, we are clearing stock positions here throughout the whole chain until the end user, and this will result in some catch-up effect also in Q4.

Speaker #5: All right, understood. Thanks for that. You mentioned in your US business that you were successful in reaching a broader customer base, but that volume-wise you are lagging behind.

Karsten von Blumenthal: All right. Understood. Thanks for that. You mentioned in your US business that you were successful in a broader customer base, but that volume wise, you are lagging behind. Could you elaborate on that? What hinders customers from ordering larger volumes? Do you need more time to explain the product, or is any difficulties in the market? What is going on in the US?

Speaker #5: Could you elaborate on that? What hinders customers from ordering larger volumes? Does it simply mean you need more time to explain the product, or are there any difficulties in the market?

Speaker #5: What is going on in the US?

Speaker #2: No, I think if we look at the CCTV market, we are in the favorable position that we have, let's say, all the top players in the CCTV market already integrating our EFOI product. But at the same time, there is competition out there, and they are, at the end, fighting for the same projects.

Peter Podesser: No, I think if we look at the CCTV market, we are in the favorable position that we have, let us say, all the top players in the CCTV market already integrating our EFOY product. At the same time, there is competition out there, and they are, at the end, fighting for the same project. So it is less, call it regionally protected, fragmented as we observe it in Europe here, where you have clear market leaders in different geographies going for the business. There, it is more a head-to-head competition, and we are seeing, therefore, let us say, people being less aggressive also then in their volume forecasts.

Speaker #2: So it's, let's call it, regionally protected fragmented, as we observe it in Europe here, where you have clear market leaders in different geographies going for the business. There, it's more of a head-to-head competition, and we are seeing, therefore, let's say, people being less aggressive also in their volume forecasts.

Speaker #2: No we had a a a a a head start here with our largest customer LiveView Technologies but others are catching up and therefore I think that's that's an element that's on an intermediate basis I think slowing us down seeing our integration in all their value chains here with the different competitors I think we have a significant growth potential here ahead of us.

Peter Podesser: Now, we had a head start here with our largest customer, LiveView Technologies, but others are catching up and therefore, I think that is an element that is, on an intermediate basis, I think, slowing us down, seeing our integration in all their value chains here with the different competitors. I think we have a significant growth potential here ahead of us. So it is not about, let us say, being replaced by other technologies. It is, at the end of the day, a competition on our customers' level.

Speaker #2: So it's not about, let's say, being replaced by other technologies. It is, at the end of the day, a competition at our customers' level.

Speaker #5: All right, that sounds rather promising. One last question regarding your defense business: you said that your product has become a must-have. So when do you expect further large orders, be it from Ukraine or from other armed forces? Yeah, that would of course help to get visibility into 2027.

Karsten von Blumenthal: All right. That sounds rather promising. One last question regarding your defense business. You said that your product has become a must-have. When do you expect further large orders, be it from Ukraine, be it from other armed forces? That would of course help to get visibility into 2027.

Speaker #2: Well I think we have we have a signaling effect out of what is being used in Ukraine and this is not SFC specific. If I look who I'd say is all going to to there and and and and get and understanding of this let's say new format of a of a combat situation more agile more mobile or I'd say electric and not so much a monolithic warfare we are seeing let's say all parts of armed forces from North America to Asia to the Middle East also being present in Ukraine watching and trying to learn and therefore we expect naturally also an impact let's say on our business.

Peter Podesser: Well, I think we have a signaling effect out of what is being used in Ukraine, and this is not SFC specific. If I look who, let's say, is all going to there and get an understanding of this new format of a combat situation, more agile, more mobile, or, let's say, electric, and not so much a monolithic warfare. We are seeing all parts of armed forces from North America to Asia to the Middle East also being present in Ukraine, watching and trying to learn, and therefore we expect naturally also an impact on our business. If we look at what is in the pipeline, I think on the OEM part, we are expecting also for 2027, the first programs to scale geographically in Europe.

Speaker #2: If we look at, let's say, what is in the — are expecting also for '27, the first programs to scale geographically in Europe. I mentioned already, we are, as we speak, invited in the US to look at the development program here for a new generation of portable systems, second element. And if we look at the activities now in Asia, I would say also most promising is the reinitiation and the refunding of our programs in place in India.

Peter Podesser: I mentioned already, we are, as we speak, invited in the US to look at the development program here for a new generation of portable systems. Second element, if we look at the activities now in Asia, I would say also most promising is the reinitiation and the refunding of our programs in place in India. So that would be, I think, the conservative view of looking at it. If we now see what happens also in the Middle East and also our activities there, I think there is significant upside coming out of this region too.

Speaker #2: So that would be, I think, the conservative view of looking at it. If we now see, let's say, what happens also in the Middle East, and also our activities there, I think there's significant upside coming out of this region too.

Speaker #5: Yeah, that is very helpful. Thank you very much for taking my questions.

Karsten von Blumenthal: That is very helpful. Thank you very much for taking my questions.

Speaker #2: Thank you.

Peter Podesser: Thank you.

Speaker #1: The next question comes from Mikhail Kun with Deutsche Bank. Please go ahead.

Operator: The next question comes from Michael Kuhn with Deutsche Bank. Please go ahead.

Speaker #6: Good morning. Thanks for taking my questions—just a few ones. I'll start with, let's say, backlog and visibility. Is your H2 guidance entirely based on backlog, or are there some elements in the business that have shorter order cycles? And if so, what is the amount, and what portion of the current backlog do you expect to carry into next year?

Michael Kuhn: Good morning. Thanks for taking my questions. A few ones. I will start with, let's say, backlog and visibility. Is your H2 guidance entirely based on backlog, or is there some elements in the business that have shorter order cycles? If so, what is the amount and what of the current backlog do you expect to carry into next year?

Speaker #2: Good morning, Michael. Peter. Well, we, especially on the power side of the business, we also have part of the backlog naturally ranging significantly, also into 2027.

Peter Podesser: Good morning, Michael, Peter. Well, especially on the power side of the business, we have also a part of the backlog naturally ranging significantly also into 2027. If we look at what you have here, and if you see where we are at the mid-year, you can say about a EUR 25 million level of revenue is getting also into 2027, and therefore, you also see that there is a residual part still, let's say, needed for the midpoint of the guidance. But that is mostly the industrial part of our fuel cell business, especially also the civilian security, the CCTV part. This is a business that, in most cases, is also intra quarters. So within, let's say, 8 to 12 weeks timeline, we are turning this around here with our CCTV customers.

Speaker #2: If we look at what you have here, and if you see where we are at midyear, you can say about a €25 million level of revenue is also getting into 2027. Therefore, you also see that there is a residual part still, let's say, needed for the midpoint of the guidance, but that is mostly the industrial part of our fuel cell business, especially also the civilian security, the CCTV part.

Speaker #2: This is a business that in most cases is also intra quarter. So within a let's say 8 to 12 weeks timeline we are turning this around here with our CCTV customers and that's why we have factored this also in into our forecast and that's actually also that part where we are working strongly also on let's say removing supply chain constraints also above let's say the midpoint of the guidance.

Peter Podesser: That is why we have factored this also into our forecast, and that is actually also that part where we are working strongly also on, let us say, removing supply chain constraints also above, let us say, the midpoint of the guidance.

Speaker #6: That is very clear. Thank you. Then on the clean power management you mentioned some softness of your of your key customer. Do you expect this to persist or or that problem to dissolve over the next few months and also in in that segment you mentioned new use cases like drone defense lasers maybe you could share some thoughts on on on timeline and and the the size of the of the business opportunity here.

Michael Kuhn: That is very clear. Thank you. Then on Clean Power Management, you mentioned some softness of your key customer. Do you expect this to persist or that problem to dissolve over the next few months? Also, in that segment, you mentioned new use cases like drone defense lasers. Maybe you could share some thoughts on timeline and the size of the business opportunity here.

Speaker #2: Absolutely. I think here on the on the power management side we have a an extremely reliable industrial partner with a precise forecasting and we knew that it would be a a soft year.

Peter Podesser: Absolutely. I think here on the power management side, we have an extremely reliable industrial partner with a precise forecasting, and we knew that it would be a soft year. I think, let us say, the fact that this was also now getting into Q3 still was something that we had not factored in. At the end, we see their end markets. At the beginning of the year, still one of their core end markets, semiconductors, did apparently not deliver the pickup. This is now changing. The mere analytical market from research institutes to universities impacted also by funding constraints, especially in the US, has an impact going further. That is why I think having right now a conservative still outlook for this year is the right approach. Seeing their latest forecast, we see also the first uptick here towards the end of the year. Under control.

Speaker #2: I think, let's say, the fact that this was also now getting into, let's say, Q3, still was something that we had not factored in.

Speaker #2: At the end, we see their end markets at the beginning of the year. Still, one of their core end markets—semiconductors—did apparently not deliver the pickup.

Speaker #2: This is now changing. The mere analytical market, from research institutes to universities, impacted also by funding constraints, especially in the US, has an impact going further, and that's why I think having right now a conservative, still outlook for this year is the right approach. Seeing the latest forecast, we see, let's say, also the first uptick here towards the end of the year.

Speaker #2: So, under control, I think also good communication here. At the same time, our biggest semiconductor company in the segment, as semiconductor customer in the segment, is accelerating programs, so we expect an uptick there. And on the defense part, I think we will see first shipments here into programs by 2027. I mentioned the first OEM partnership here. We have launched this program here at all the defense shows throughout the first half of the year, and we are also seeing, let's say, beyond this OEM program here, serious interest because it is not a new development. It's actually an industrially matured power supply platform that is adapted for the laser use and for the laser application in defense.

Peter Podesser: I think also good communication here. At the same time, our biggest semiconductor customer in the segment is accelerating programs, so we expect an uptick there. On the defense part, I think we will see first shipments here into programs by 2027. I mentioned the first OEM partnership here. We have launched this program here on all the defense shows throughout the first half year, and we are also seeing, let us say, beyond this OEM program here, serious interest because it is not a new development. It is actually an industrially matured power supply platform that is adapted for the laser use and for the laser application in defense. So it is something that is ready to use with adaptions to the customer's specific requirements, and therefore, we expect shipments to start in 2027.

Speaker #2: So, it is something that is ready to use, with adaptations to the customer-specific requirements, and therefore, yes, we expect shipments to start in 2027.

Peter Podesser: As always, with OEM programs, we are, at the end, exposed to timelines that are out there with our OEM partners. Everybody is growing in this segment and the supply chain is limited, I think it is a real good upside.

Speaker #2: As always with OEM programs, we are, at the end, exposed to timelines that are out there with our OEM partners. But as everybody's growing in this segment and the supply chain is limited, I think it's a real, real good upside.

Michael Kuhn: Awesome. Thank you. One more on your acquisition, Siqens. I think you elaborated that you are basically closing a gap in the portfolio here, also where H2 fuel cells are not usable. Maybe also a few words here on use cases on, let us say, the impact on your overall product offering, whether there is any replacement changes, and let us say, by when you expect this new platform to be fully up and running within SFC and how much it could contribute.

Speaker #6: Understood. Thank you. And one more on your your acquisition cycles. So I think you elaborated that you are basically closing a a gap in the in the portfolio here also where H2 fuel cells are are are not usable.

Speaker #6: Maybe also few words here on use cases on let's say the impact of your on your overall product offering whether there's there's any replacement changes and and let's say by when you expect this new platform to be fully up and running within SFC and and how much it could contribute.

Speaker #2: Yeah. with all let's say naturally the the the limitations of just being in the process of finalizing the the the acquisition and and and starting the integration I think strategically very clear there are customers who cannot or who are not willing for whatever reasons logistics security.

Peter Podesser: Yeah. With all, let us say, naturally, the limitations of just being in the process of finalizing the acquisition and starting the integration, I think strategically very clear. There are customers who cannot or who are not willing for whatever reasons, logistics, security, who are not willing to take, let us say, hydrogen as a fuel. They are reformed methanol, converting methanol into hydrogen on-site, and then using the hydrogen in the fuel cell. Therefore, also reduce the bill of materials in proportion to the output number in terms of watts or kilowatts is a compelling solution. We did a classical make-or-buy assessment here. Instead of, let us say, going there and do all the R&D from scratch, it was a very good opportunity to, let us say, make use of, naturally, the difficulty Siqens faced here in terms of commercialization of the product.

Speaker #2: Who are not willing to take let's say a a hydrogen as a as a as a fuel and their reformed methanol converting methanol into hydrogen on site and then using the hydrogen in the fuel cell.

Speaker #2: and therefore also reduce the the the bill of materials in proportion to the output number. In terms of in terms of watts or kilowatts is a compelling is a compelling solution.

Speaker #2: We did a classical make or buy assessment here instead of let's say going there and do let's say all the R&D from scratch it was a very good opportunity to let's say make use of naturally the the the difficulty sequence faced here in terms of commercialization of the product setting up and establishing an international sales organization partnership structure I think was the major hurdle they had to face combined naturally with some final improvements of the product stability longevity operations time and I think in both areas we can help immediately at the end customer use cases range from defense to the CCTV area to the oil and gas area.

Peter Podesser: Setting up and establishing an international sales organization, partnership structure, I think was the major hurdle they had to face, combined naturally with some final improvements of the product stability, longevity, operations time. I think in both areas, we can help immediately. At the end, customer use cases range from defense to the CCTV area to the oil and gas area. We see the demand for this kind of power level. If you take CCTV, we are all looking at increased power needs because of AI-based camera systems and computing power already on-site. Therefore, it is a logical reaction then to increase the power level also of the fuel cell as the backup power source here to battery and solar.

Speaker #2: We see the demand for this kind of power level. If you take CCTV, we are all looking at increased power needs because of AI-based camera systems and computing power already on site, and therefore it's a logical reaction then to increase the power level also of the—of the.

Speaker #2: fuel cell as the backup power source here to battery and solar. So we see let's say initial pro projects where in some of them few but still some of them we were competing where we would clearly favor now the new platform and offer this and we want to have first systems out we actually working with those customers already and we might even ship some of those products still in Q4 of this year depending on how fast we are in in recovering here let's say the supply chain and do the touchups but we definitely will be able to ship in 2027 but expect let's say a a a a modest number here we are not talking about 10 million sales we are talking about let's say the first 20 to 50 systems and we are talking about let's say from a 1 million to a a a 3 to 5 million impact here in in in in this period of time and it is also naturally about testing the systems out there but still we are also consolidating the offering we are the only one now having this consistent full stage offering here on a worldwide basis and therefore I think we are we are making ourselves more interesting for customers to go with us along the whole range of products.

Peter Podesser: We see, let's say, initial projects where in some of them, few, but still some of them we were competing, where we would clearly favor now the new platform and offer this, and we want to have first systems out. We actually working with those customers already, and we might even ship some of those products still in Q4 of this year, depending on how fast we are in recovering here, let's say, the supply chain and do the touch-ups. But we definitely will be able to ship in 2027. But expect, let's say, a modest number here. We are not talking about EUR 10 million sales. We are talking about, let's say, the first 20 to 50 systems, and we are talking about, let's say, from EUR 1 million to a EUR 3 million to EUR 5 million impact here in this period of time.

Peter Podesser: It is also naturally about testing the systems out there. But still, we are also consolidating the offering. We are the only one now having this consistent full stage offering here on a worldwide basis, and therefore, I think we are making ourselves more interesting for customers to go with us along the whole range of products.

Speaker #6: Well there's Liam. Thank you.

Michael Kuhn: All very clear. Thank you.

Speaker #2: Thank you.

Peter Podesser: Thank you.

Speaker #6: Our next question comes from Malte Sharman with Orbook Research. Please go ahead.

Operator: Our next question comes from Malte Schaumann with ODDO BHF Research. Please go ahead.

Speaker #7: Yes, good morning, guys. First question is on the gross margin. I mean, you had a pretty strong mix in the first half of the year.

Malte Schaumann: Yes. Good morning, guys. First question is on the gross margin. You had a pretty strong mix in the H1 of the year. What are your thoughts about the H2? Product mix might look almost the same with still a big chunk of the Ukraine order to come into the Q3. What are your thoughts about gross margin development in Q3 and Q4?

Speaker #7: So, what are your thoughts about the second half? I mean, the product mix might look almost the same, with still a big chunk of the Ukraine order to come into the third quarter.

Speaker #7: So what are your thoughts about gross margin development in Q3 and Q4?

Speaker #8: Well, Malte, hi, this is Daniel. So, regarding growth margin development for the second half of the year, apparently—as you just mentioned—we are looking at strong orders or strong delivery in Ukraine in the third quarter.

Daniel Saxena: Malte, hi. This is Daniel. Gross margin development for the H2 of the year. Apparently, as you just mentioned it, we are looking at strong orders or a strong delivery in Ukraine in the Q3. We would have a very strong gross margin again in the Q3. Probably, around the level of what we've seen in the Q2, plus minus, of course, because we have some effects in there. The Q4, it depends. I would see still a very good gross margin, but there is a big dependency, remember, on what we deliver, on what we can deliver, in which markets we can deliver. Mostly because of making sure that we have all parts available. Less because of order backlog, more because availability, of course. To make it short, Q3, very strong and good.

Speaker #8: So we would have a very strong gross margin again in the third quarter, probably, you know, around the level of what we've seen in the second quarter.

Speaker #8: Plus minus, of course, because we have some impacts in there. And then the fourth quarter, it kind of depends. I would see still a very good gross margin, but there is a big dependency, remember, on what we deliver—what we can deliver, in which markets we can deliver—mostly because of, you know, making sure that we have all parts available, less because of order backlog, more because of availability of parts.

Speaker #8: So, to make it short: third quarter, very strong and good. Third quarter, there is a bit of a variety from good to strong.

Daniel Saxena: Q4, there is a bit of a variety from good to strong.

Speaker #7: Okay, sounds good. Then I'll be on clean power business. We are down almost 15% year over year in the first half of the year. I mean, Q3 does not look like it would pick up immediately.

Malte Schaumann: Okay, sounds good. Then on the Clean Power business, we are down almost 15% year-over-year in H1. Q3 does not look like it will pick up immediately. Maybe Q4, but Q4 last year was also strong. Is that -10% to -15% sales growth, sales development, the right view to look at this business for the full year in 2026, and then hopefully pick up will happen next year?

Speaker #7: Maybe Q4, but Q4 last year was also strong. So is that maybe a minus 10, minus 15% sales growth, sales development, the right view to look at this business for the full year in 2026, and then hopefully a pick-up will happen next year?

Speaker #2: Well, here I would say we expect an improvement in H2. As mentioned, there are some signs of recovery here in the European part and especially also from oil and gas customers. We see consistent investment.

Peter Podesser: Well, here I would say we expect an improvement in H2. As mentioned, there are some signs of recovery here in the European part and especially also from oil and gas customers, we see consistent investment. So I think a range of up to 10% is what we would see as our assessment today in our year-end forecast.

Speaker #2: So, I think a range of up to 10% is what we would see as our assessment today in our year-end forecast.

Speaker #7: Okay, then on flattening them, did you implement some hedges earlier in the year, towards the end of last year? Is there a hedge position still in place?

Malte Schaumann: Okay. Then on platinum, did you implement some hedges early in the year or towards the end of last year? Is the hedge position still in place?

Speaker #8: No there's no hedge position. We did not implement any hedges luckily. because we've seen the Platinum pricing decline so the answer is no. We just bought quite a an amount of Platinum to which is physically well it's physically staying with us to to lock in on the lower prices.

Daniel Saxena: No, there is no hedge position. We did not implement any hedges luckily, because we have seen the platinum pricing decline. So the answer is no. We just bought quite an amount of platinum, which is physically staying with us, to lock in on the lower prices.

Speaker #7: Okay, that's good. Then, you mentioned the adoption of your power supply platform for defense applications. Can you elaborate on the opportunity and what revenue contributions might come out of that in one, two, or three years?

Malte Schaumann: Okay, that is good. Then you mentioned the adoption of your power supply platform for different applications. Can you elaborate on the opportunity? What revenue contributions might come out of that in 1 to 3 years?

Speaker #2: Yeah, as said, there are a number of OEMs out there who are really looking for, let's say, an acceleration of their supply chain, an expansion of their supply chain.

Peter Podesser: Yeah. As said, there are a number of OEMs out there who are really looking for, let us say, an acceleration of their supply chain, an expansion of their supply chain. We have a classical dual-use product here of high-tech industries using it, and therefore we are fast to market. If we look at it, and if you look, let us say, on a midterm basis, yeah, this is a business where we would expect, let us say, a lower double-digit business coming out of this. But we are also looking at procurement cycles that are, let us say, usually slow at the beginning and then start to scale. That is why we started with a conservative approach here for 2027, and then we see how fast scaling goes there.

Speaker #2: We have a classical dual use product here of high-tech industries using it. And therefore we are fast to market. And if we look at it and if you look let's say on a mid-term basis yeah this is a a business where we we would expect let's say a lower double digit business coming out of this.

Speaker #2: But we are also looking at procurement cycles that are, let's say, usually slow at the beginning and then start to scale. So that's why we started with a conservative approach here for '27.

Speaker #2: And then we see how fast scaling goes there. But yeah, the market is there, and I think we have a proven platform—that is, let's say, the clear advantage of our dual-use product strategy.

Peter Podesser: But yeah, the market is there, and I think we have a proven platform that is, let us say, the clear advantage of our dual-use product strategy.

Speaker #7: Mm-hmm. Okay. then on the business in India is will that be lead to gradually gradual order intake or is that do do you expect kind of a bigger order at some point in time in the third or fourth quarter?

Malte Schaumann: Mm-hmm. Okay. Then on the business in India, will that be to gradually get your order intake, or do you expect a bigger order at some point in time in Q3 or Q4?

Speaker #2: Well I think we are looking at at really a reinitiation of do a reinitiation of those programs that is at at least what we also learned from our partners when when sitting together a couple of weeks ago we also see let's say the activities on what we do on the on the support contracts where we see our products are fully in use.

Peter Podesser: Well, I think we are looking at really a reinitiation of those programs. That is at least what we also learned from our partners when sitting together a couple of weeks ago. We also see, let's say, the activities on what we do on the support contracts where we see our products are fully in use. We are out there with all our service capabilities supporting them in the field. Therefore, still for the outlook, we are looking at more a higher backlog than revenue impact in 2026. But as their fiscal year goes until our Q1 in 2027, I think this is where we will see, let's say, a biggest part of the impact.

Speaker #2: We are out there with all our service capabilities, supporting them in the field. And therefore, still, for the outlook, we are looking at more of a higher backlog than revenue impact in 2026.

Speaker #2: But as their fiscal year goes until our first quarter in 2027, I think this is where we will see, let's say, the biggest part of the impact—not going back to, let's say, the level immediately of where we were two and a half years ago, but catching up and getting back to those levels. I would say within a period of 24 to 36 months, we will have the installed base out there.

Peter Podesser: Not going back to, let's say, the level immediately of where we were two and a half years ago, but catching up and getting back to those levels, I would say, within a period of 24 to 36 months is absolutely realistic because we have the installed base out there. They need to refresh, they need to restuff, and as far as we see it right now, funding is back in place.

Speaker #2: They need to refresh. They need to restaff. And, as far as we see it right now, funding is back in place.

Speaker #7: Okay. thanks.

Malte Schaumann: Okay. Many thanks.

Speaker #2: Thank you Malta.

Peter Podesser: Thank you, Malte.

Speaker #1: As a reminder, if you wish to register for a question, you may press star and one. Ladies and gentlemen, there are no further questions at this time.

Operator: As a reminder, if you wish to register for a question, you may press star and one. Ladies and gentlemen, there are no further questions at this time. I would now like to hand over back to Mr. Podesser for any closing remarks.

Speaker #1: I would now like to hand back over to Mr. Podesser for any closing remarks.

Speaker #2: Once again, you see us here very confident for the remaining part of the year, addressing what needs to be addressed. For the time being, if there are any further questions on a bilateral basis with Daniel, myself, or Suzanne, we are at your disposal. We thank you very much for your time on this nice mid-August morning here.

Peter Podesser: Yeah. Once again, you see ourselves here, very confident for the remaining part of the year, addressing what needs to be addressed. For the time being, if there are any further questions on a bilateral basis with Daniel, myself, also Susanne, we are at your disposal. We thank you very much for your time on this nice mid-August morning here. Thank you very much. Goodbye.

Speaker #2: Thank you very much. Goodbye.

Speaker #8: Goodbye. Thank you.

Malte Schaumann: Goodbye. Thank you.

Daniel Saxena: Goodbye. Thank you.

Operator: Ladies and gentlemen, the conference is now over. Thank you for choosing Chorus Call, and thank you for participating in the conference. You may now disconnect your lines. Goodbye.

Speaker #1: Ladies and gentlemen, the conference is now over. Thank you for choosing Coruscal, and thank you for participating in the conference. You may now disconnect your lines.

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