Latest news with #EthanBrown
Straits Times
4 days ago
- Straits Times
Ethan Brown becomes first Singaporean to be selected for Lamborghini's young driver programme
Ethan Brown is currently racing in the Lamborghini Super Trofeo Asia Series as a rookie. SINGAPORE – While some of his peers were still savouring the trackside high after last September's 2024 Formula One Singapore Grand Prix, young Singaporean race car driver Ethan Brown was making a dash from the Padang to Nee Soon Camp. Brown, a full-time national serviceman then, had competed in similar cars in the Australian Formula 3 Championship in 2022 and being at the Singapore GP, which was won by McLaren's Lando Norris, inevitably sparked thoughts of his own motorsport career. Fast forward to today, Brown who has completed NS, found himself back in the fast lane. On July 16, the 20-year-old was announced as part of the 2025 Lamborghini Young Driver Program. He is the first Singaporean to be part of this initiative, and is one of only two Asian drivers selected, alongside Macau's Charles Leong. The programme is designed to cultivate the next generation of motorsport talent by providing intensive training and competitive opportunities. Brown, whose father is Australian and mother Singaporean, said: 'It's a dream come true, and I'm excited to learn from the talented staff at Lamborghini. 'I'm proud to carry the Singapore flag and hopeful to make my mark on the international racing scene.' Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Singapore Critical infrastructure in S'pore under attack by cyber espionage group: Shanmugam Singapore Who is UNC3886, the group that attacked Singapore's critical information infrastructure? Singapore HSA looking to get anti-vape cyber surveillance tool with AI capabilities Singapore Singapore police in contact with Indonesian authorities over baby trafficking allegations Singapore Alleged Kpod peddler filmed trying to flee raid in Bishan charged with 6 offences Singapore NTU upholds zero grade for student accused of using AI in essay; panel found 14 false citations or data Singapore 30% of aviation jobs could be redesigned due to AI, automation; $200m fund to support workers: CAAS Singapore Former NUH male nurse faces charges after he allegedly molested man at hospital He is one of 16 young drivers from the Lamborghini Super Trofeo – an international racing series with three regional circuits – selected to receive support, training, and evaluation throughout the season by Lamborghini. Drivers were assessed by Scuola Federale ACI Sport's chief instructor Niki Cadei, as well as Lamborghini factory drivers Andrea Caldarelli and Marco Mapelli. Participants will receive coaching in areas such as race craft, technical feedback, physical and mental conditioning, media and sponsorship skills and simulator development. They will also benefit from working closely with Lamborghini motorsport department's engineers and staff throughout the season. Ultimately, the programme will act as a direct pipeline to Lamborghini's GT3 and factory racing opportunities. Scotsman Sandy Mitchell, the 2020 British GT Championship winner and Italian driver Leonardo Pulcini are graduates of the programme who have gone on to become factory drivers for the manufacturer. As part of the programme, Brown could also be invited to a training camp at the carmaker's headquarters in Italy and a final shoot-out at Misano in November, where the top-performing drivers will compete for further support. If he impresses there, he may receive factory backing from Lamborghini for the 2026 season, which will represent a major step towards a professional career in GT racing or beyond. Brown added that this has fuelled his motivation for the ultimate goal of making a career out of racing. He said: 'The dream is to become a factory driver for Lamborghini... As a factory driver, you're fully paid to race, you're a brand ambassador, you fly around and race for Lamborghini in races such as the World Endurance Championship, or at the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race.' Currently racing in the Lamborghini Super Trofeo Asia Series as a rookie, Brown is in second place in the championship standings after three rounds, with three podium finishes in six races including a win in Race 1 at Shanghai in May. The series features two drivers splitting driving duties for a team as they compete in identical, single-make Huracan Super Trofeo Evo2 cars across five rounds in top Asian circuits. The next round will be held from July 18-20 in Inje, South Korea, followed by Sepang (Sept 5-7) and the final round on Nov 6 and 7 in Misano, Italy, where the Nov 8-9 World Finals will also take place. The St. Andrew's Secondary School alumnus, who is now based in Australia, where he is pursuing a computer science and finance degree at the La Trobe University in Melbourne, said his racing journey started with go-karts at the age of six. His father, who loves simulator racing, took him to Kartright Speedway, a now defunct go-karting track that was located in Jurong. Brown said he was hooked almost immediately by the adrenaline rush and his father would take him to karting races in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Australia. In 2019, Ethan moved to Australia to pursue his racing career and three years later he moved up from karts to the Australian Formula 3 Championship, where he had five podium finishes as part of the Tim Macrow Racing team in his debut season. In 2023, he enlisted for NS, which mean that full-time racing was paused. Now, Brown hopes to grab this opportunity presented by Lamborghini with both hands. 'Singapore is my home, and to have the Singapore flag on the car, representing the country in races around the world, I can't describe how proud I am to be able to do that,' he said. 'I want to keep growing in this sport and just as Joseph Schooling did with his swimming at the Olympics, I hope to continually put our flag on the racing map.'
Yahoo
09-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
The 5 Most Interesting Analyst Questions From Beyond Meat's Q1 Earnings Call
Beyond Meat's first quarter was marked by a sharper-than-expected sales decline and a wider loss than anticipated, with management citing several setbacks. CEO Ethan Brown called the quarter 'disappointing,' attributing much of the underperformance to disruptions in retail distribution as major U.S. customers moved products from refrigerated to frozen aisles, causing temporary gaps on shelves. Brown also pointed to broader category weakness and macroeconomic headwinds, noting that these factors made it difficult to offset volume shortfalls. The company highlighted extraordinary, non-recurring expenses, including legal costs and the suspension of operations in China, as additional drags on profitability. Is now the time to buy BYND? Find out in our full research report (it's free). Revenue: $68.73 million vs analyst estimates of $74.92 million (9.1% year-on-year decline, 8.3% miss) Adjusted EPS: -$0.67 vs analyst expectations of -$0.47 (41.3% miss) Adjusted EBITDA: -$42.33 million vs analyst estimates of -$22.13 million (-61.6% margin, 91.3% miss) Operating Margin: -81.8%, down from -70.7% in the same quarter last year Sales Volumes fell 11.2% year on year (-16.1% in the same quarter last year) Market Capitalization: $273.8 million While we enjoy listening to the management's commentary, our favorite part of earnings calls are the analyst questions. Those are unscripted and can often highlight topics that management teams would rather avoid or topics where the answer is complicated. Here is what has caught our attention. Ben Theurer (Barclays) asked how Beyond Meat planned to halt volume declines in the U.S., and CEO Ethan Brown detailed distribution recovery efforts and brand messaging initiatives, emphasizing that regaining shelf space and consumer trust are top priorities. Ben Theurer (Barclays) followed up on the new $100 million financing, to which CFO Lubi Kutua provided details on interest rates, maturity, and the strategic need for financial flexibility without altering cost control priorities. Peter Saleh (BTIG) requested details on the U.S. food service strategy. Kutua explained that improvements are expected as the team builds out, with a focus on smaller national accounts rather than large quick-service restaurant wins. Robert Moskow (TD Cowen) probed the withdrawal of full-year guidance. Brown and Kutua cited unpredictable consumer demand and macroeconomic risks as key reasons, noting that stabilizing margins and achieving EBITDA targets take precedence over chasing arbitrary top-line goals. Kaumil Gajrawala (Jefferies) asked about industry de-stocking trends and potential future one-time charges. Management acknowledged some evidence of de-stocking but saw general consumer slowdown as a bigger factor, and indicated that costs from China's exit would recur but diminish over time. In the coming quarters, the StockStory team will monitor (1) the pace and effectiveness of regained retail distribution, (2) margin improvements as operational changes take hold at the Pennsylvania facility, and (3) the impact of new marketing campaigns on consumer perceptions and demand. The trajectory of U.S. food service recovery and any further extraordinary costs will also be important indicators for Beyond Meat's path to profitability. Beyond Meat currently trades at $3.56, up from $2.55 just before the earnings. At this price, is it a buy or sell? See for yourself in our full research report (it's free). The market surged in 2024 and reached record highs after Donald Trump's presidential victory in November, but questions about new economic policies are adding much uncertainty for 2025. While the crowd speculates what might happen next, we're homing in on the companies that can succeed regardless of the political or macroeconomic environment. Put yourself in the driver's seat and build a durable portfolio by checking out our Top 5 Strong Momentum Stocks for this week. This is a curated list of our High Quality stocks that have generated a market-beating return of 183% over the last five years (as of March 31st 2025). Stocks that made our list in 2020 include now familiar names such as Nvidia (+1,545% between March 2020 and March 2025) as well as under-the-radar businesses like the once-small-cap company Exlservice (+354% five-year return). Find your next big winner with StockStory today. StockStory is growing and hiring equity analyst and marketing roles. Are you a 0 to 1 builder passionate about the markets and AI? See the open roles here. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
BYND Q1 Earnings Call: Management Focuses on Expense Controls and Distribution Recovery Amid Ongoing Challenges
Plant-based protein company Beyond Meat (NASDAQ:BYND) missed Wall Street's revenue expectations in Q1 CY2025, with sales falling 9.1% year on year to $68.73 million. Its non-GAAP loss of $0.67 per share was 41.3% below analysts' consensus estimates. Is now the time to buy BYND? Find out in our full research report (it's free). Revenue: $68.73 million vs analyst estimates of $74.92 million (9.1% year-on-year decline, 8.3% miss) Adjusted EPS: -$0.67 vs analyst expectations of -$0.47 (41.3% miss) Adjusted EBITDA: -$42.33 million vs analyst estimates of -$22.13 million (-61.6% margin, 91.3% miss) Operating Margin: -81.8%, down from -70.7% in the same quarter last year Sales Volumes fell 11.2% year on year (-16.1% in the same quarter last year) Market Capitalization: $260.8 million Beyond Meat's first quarter performance was shaped by distribution disruptions and declining category demand, particularly in the U.S. retail channel. CEO Ethan Brown described the quarter as 'disappointing,' attributing much of the volume shortfall to large customers transitioning Beyond Meat products from refrigerated to frozen aisles, which led to temporary gaps in product availability. Brown also cited broader macroeconomic headwinds and category softness, with increased consumer caution negatively impacting sales velocities. CFO Lubi Kutua highlighted that extraordinary, non-recurring operating expenses—including legal arbitration costs and charges related to suspending operations in China—further pressured results. Management emphasized that these factors were largely transient, with Brown stating, 'We take this deviation from a recovery extremely seriously and we're using it as an opportunity to strengthen our organization.' Looking forward, Beyond Meat has withdrawn its full-year guidance, citing ongoing uncertainty in consumer demand and the broader economic environment. Management's near-term focus is on regaining lost retail distribution, improving gross margin through enhanced production efficiency, and delivering targeted marketing efforts to address consumer misperceptions about plant-based proteins. Brown stressed the importance of restoring profitability, explaining, 'Our overarching goal remains the same: EBITDA positive on a run rate basis by year end 2026.' The company's strategy includes further reducing operating expenses and leveraging new product launches—such as Beyond Chicken Pieces—while running campaigns like 'Real People, Real Results' to shift public perception. CFO Kutua noted that while potential tariff impacts are being monitored, the direct risk to Beyond Meat's business appears limited at this time. Management reiterated that stabilizing the top line, expanding gross margin, and maintaining tight cost controls are critical for navigating the volatile environment. Management attributed Q1's underperformance to lost U.S. retail distribution, production inefficiencies, and elevated one-time expenses, while outlining steps to regain momentum. Distribution transitions impacted sales: Several large U.S. retailers moved Beyond Meat products from refrigerated to frozen aisles, resulting in significant product unavailability and temporary distribution gaps throughout the quarter. Management expects to regain much of this shelf presence in subsequent quarters, which should help stabilize retail sales volumes. Production network consolidation challenges: The company's shift to consolidate manufacturing and ramp up internal production at the Devault, Pennsylvania facility led to delays and lower-than-expected throughput. Brown noted these startup inefficiencies, combined with lower sales volumes, increased per-unit costs and weighed on margins for the quarter. Extraordinary operating expenses: Beyond Meat's operating expenses included over $7 million in non-recurring items, such as legal arbitration costs, inventory provisions tied to strategic inventory reductions, and expenses related to suspending activities in China. Excluding these, baseline operating expenses continued to decline year over year. Category softness and consumer caution: Management described broad macroeconomic uncertainty and reduced consumer confidence as key drivers of category-wide volume softness, particularly in U.S. retail and food service. CFO Kutua observed that 'flexitarian' consumers—those who purchase both plant-based and animal proteins—are especially sensitive to economic pressures, which can trigger a shift away from plant-based products. Marketing and brand perception efforts: Management believes lingering misperceptions about plant-based protein remain a key barrier to growth. Recent marketing campaigns, such as 'Real People, Real Results,' aim to address health and nutrition concerns, while certifications from organizations like the American Heart Association seek to reinforce Beyond Meat's value proposition. Management's outlook centers on restoring U.S. retail distribution, improving production efficiency, and shifting consumer perceptions through targeted marketing and product innovation. Retail distribution recovery: Management expects regaining shelf space in key U.S. retailers will be a primary driver of improved sales volumes in the coming quarters. Brown indicated that about 70% of Q1's client volume shortfall was tied to distribution gaps, with most lost placements anticipated to return as the year progresses. Margin improvement initiatives: The company is focused on consolidating manufacturing operations, optimizing its product mix, and reducing overhead. CFO Kutua noted ongoing efforts to stabilize and grow core products, which are essential for gross margin expansion. Management expects benefits from production efficiency at the Devault facility and seasonality to support improved margins over the remainder of the year. Consumer engagement and perception: Beyond Meat is intensifying its marketing campaigns to counter misinformation and highlight product health benefits. The new 'Real People, Real Results' program, along with expanded product certifications, aims to rebuild consumer trust and drive trial among health-conscious shoppers. Management sees this as critical for regaining velocity and returning to growth. In upcoming quarters, the StockStory team will monitor (1) the pace of U.S. retail distribution recovery and resulting changes in sales volumes, (2) measurable progress in production efficiency and gross margin improvements at consolidated facilities, and (3) the impact of new marketing initiatives and product launches on consumer engagement. Execution in these areas will be critical for Beyond Meat's turnaround. Beyond Meat currently trades at a forward price-to-sales ratio of 0.9×. In the wake of earnings, is it a buy or sell? See for yourself in our full research report (it's free). Market indices reached historic highs following Donald Trump's presidential victory in November 2024, but the outlook for 2025 is clouded by new trade policies that could impact business confidence and growth. While this has caused many investors to adopt a "fearful" wait-and-see approach, we're leaning into our best ideas that can grow regardless of the political or macroeconomic climate. Take advantage of Mr. Market by checking out our Top 6 Stocks for this week. This is a curated list of our High Quality stocks that have generated a market-beating return of 183% over the last five years (as of March 31st 2025). Stocks that made our list in 2020 include now familiar names such as Nvidia (+1,545% between March 2020 and March 2025) as well as under-the-radar businesses like the once-small-cap company Comfort Systems (+782% five-year return). Find your next big winner with StockStory today. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
News.com.au
16-05-2025
- Sport
- News.com.au
On The Punt: Flemington best bets for Saturday, May 17, 2025
Form analyst Chris Vernuccio gives his best bet, next best and value tip at Flemington on Saturday. News Corp form analyst Chris Vernuccio takes a look at the Flemington meeting on Saturday. â– â– â– â– â– BEST BET KING ZEPHYR (R6 No.11): King Zephyr sets up to stakes grade for the first time after winning all four runs this prep, beating his opposition easily by a combined margin of 9¼ lengths. He looks capable of winning Group races. The step back to 1200m is the only concern but connections have their sights on the Group 1 Stradbroke Handicap next month. NEXT BEST HIGHVOL (R2 No.1): Highvol won a stakes race on debut on Anzac Day and should have more upside. The horse he beat, Stay Cosmic, was runner-up in a handicap race at Sandown Lakeside after winning on debut, so the form potentially looks strong. He's drawn well in barrier six to settle among the leading pack. VALUE BET MAGARTEN (R9 No.10): Magarten chased home in-form galloper Know Thyself at Randwick last start, finishing 1¼ lengths behind the Country Championships Final winner. He should be ready to peak third-up and has placed twice in both attempts at 1800m. ETHAN BROWN HIGHVOL (R2 No.1 – $2.80), MATERIAL DREAMS (R3 No.5 – $8.50), KALKALLO (R4 No.7 – $3.90), OXFORD BLUE (R5 No.4 – $4.80), BERKSHIRE BREEZE (R7 No.12 – $5.50). Originally published as On The Punt: Flemington best bets for Saturday, May 17, 2025
Daily Telegraph
15-05-2025
- Sport
- Daily Telegraph
Brad Waters' Pakenham tips: Thursday, May 15, 2025
Don't miss out on the headlines from Opinion. Followed categories will be added to My News. Form expert Brad Waters analyses Thursday's meeting at Pakenham, presenting his best bets, value selection and jockey to follow. • PUNT LIKE A PRO: Become a Racenet iQ member and get expert tips – with fully transparent return on investment statistics – from Racenet's team of professional punters at our Pro Tips section. SUBSCRIBE NOW! ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ BEST BET SIOUX SPIRIT (Race 5 No.1): Chased solidly when not far away at Mornington first-up. She'll be much fitter again has drawn to have the perfect run. ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ NEXT BEST TASSRON (Race 1 No.6): Tried hard behind an all-the-way winner at his first crack at 1600m at Cranbourne. He'll be better for it and will be harder to beat. NASRAAWY (Race 7 No.2): Solid under 60kg at Sale second-up after scoring when resuming. He'll be fitter again and staying at 1000m suits. ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ VALUE BET LINKVUE (Race 6 No.2): Led throughout to score at Geelong but wasn't able to lead last time. If he finds the front, he could be hard to run down this time. ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ THE JOCKEY — ETHAN BROWN The Group 1-winning hoop heads to Pakenham for five rides on Thursday. QUEENSBURY (Race 1 No.4 – $4.40), BRING FORTH (Race 2 No.2 – $1.50), ILLYIVY (Race 4 No.7 – $4), THE GRUMPY BEAR (Race 6 No.1 – $2.50), NUTS 'N' BOLTS (Race 8 No.5 – $9.50). Originally published as Brad Waters' best bets and value play for Pakenham races on Thursday, May 15, 2025
