Latest news with #SWIM
The Star
27-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
First state-level test in Oct
KUCHING: Year Six pupils in Sarawak will sit for the state's inaugural Ujian Penilaian Dual Language Programme (UPDLP) on Oct 15 and 16, says state Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister Datuk Seri Roland Sagah. He said the UPDLP is a standardised assessment for Year Six and Form Three students taking the dual language programme in Sarawak, covering the three core subjects of Science, Mathematics and English. 'The examination papers for these subjects are developed by our local expert teachers, ensuring they are tailored to the programme's specific needs and context. 'Crucially, all examination papers will also be thoroughly vetted and verified by Cambridge University Press and Assessment (CUP&A). This rigorous process guarantees that the assessments meet international standards,' he said in his winding-up speech at the Sarawak legislative assembly yesterday. Sagah said Swinburne Innovation Malaysia (SWIM) signed a contract service agreement with CUP&A in Cambridge, England, on April 30 to formalise the international partnership. 'This initiative is a collaborative effort by my ministry, the Education Ministry, the state Education Department, SWIM and our state-owned universities. 'It underscores our commitment to ensuring the standard of education in Sarawak continues to meet global standards,' he added. On Sarawak's free tertiary education scheme (FTES), Sagah said it would benefit 10,000 eligible Sarawakian students when it starts next year. He said the scheme, which was approved by the state government in March, is estimated to cost RM300mil in its first year. 'The FTES will first focus on undergraduate degrees in STEM-related fields, law, medicine, accounting, finance and psychology. 'However, other financial assistance is available in the form of scholarships or loans provided by Yayasan Sarawak to cater for any other courses, so nobody is left out,' Sagah said. To a question by Chong Chieng Jen (DAP-Padungan), who sought clarification on why the scheme is not offered for all courses, Sagah said FTES is still in its initial stage. 'We must spend wisely, and we also look at the talents required by the state in the next few years. 'It doesn't mean that now we offer it for these courses and stop at that,' he added.
Borneo Post
26-05-2025
- Science
- Borneo Post
Sagah: Inaugural Dual Language Programme Sarawak Assessment Test for Primary 6 students set for Oct 15-16
Sagah explained that the assessment covered three core subjects central to the DLP Sarawak curriculum namely Science, Mathematics, and English. – File photo KUCHING (May 26): The inaugural Dual Language Programme Sarawak Assessment Test (UP-DLP) for Primary 6 students in schools implementing this programme will be held on Oct 15 and 16, said Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn. The Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister said this initiative underscored the state government's commitment to ensuring that the standard of education in Sarawak continues to meet recognised global standards. 'UP-DLP Sarawak is a standardised assessment for Primary 6 and Form 3 students taking part in DLP Sarawak. 'This initiative is a collaborative effort by my ministry, the Ministry of Education Malaysia (MOE), the Sarawak State Education Department (JPNS), Swinburne Innovation Malaysia (SWIM), and our state-owned universities,' he said when winding up his ministerial speech at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting today. He explained that the assessment covered three core subjects central to the DLP Sarawak curriculum namely Science, Mathematics, and English. 'The examination papers for these subjects are developed by our local expert teachers, ensuring they are tailored to the programme's specific needs and context. 'Crucially, all examination papers will also be thoroughly vetted and verified by Cambridge University Press and Assessment (CUP&A). This rigorous process guarantees that the assessments meet international standards,' he said. He added that to formalise this partnership, SWIM signed a Contract Service Agreement with CUP&A on April 30 in Cambridge, United Kingdom, which was witnessed by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. On the Sarawak Enhancement Education Programme (SEEP), Sagah said the Sarawak government has allocated RM20 million to support this programme which aims to significantly improve student performance, particularly in the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination. 'A core element of this initiative is the provision of free tuition to students, specifically targeting those who have not passed their school-based examinations, with the goal of boosting their academic achievement. 'SEEP focuses on Form 3 students, offering tuition in core subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, and History. For upper secondary students, the programme extends to include tuition for all pure science subjects. 'The overarching objective is to enhance students' readiness for STEM-related courses at tertiary level and to prepare them for future careers within STEM fields,' he explained. In addition to free tuition, he said SEEP also encompassed a range of supplementary activities which include the development of comprehensive learning modules for both teachers and students, the creation of a dedicated SEEP Management System, and the organisation of various webinars and workshops, as well as facilitates crucial engagement sessions with teachers and parents.
The Star
26-05-2025
- Politics
- The Star
Year Six pupils in Sarawak to sit for inaugural state-level test on Oct 15-16
State Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister Datuk Seri Roland Sagah delivering his winding-up speech in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly on Monday (May 26). KUCHING: Sarawak's standardised assessment for Year Six pupils will get underway this October, says state Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister Datuk Seri Roland Sagah. He said the pupils would sit for the inaugural Ujian Penilaian Dual Language Programme (UPDLP) on Oct 15-16. "This initiative underscores our commitment to ensure that the standard of education in Sarawak continues to meet global standards," he told the Sarawak Legislative Assembly during his winding-up speech on Monday (May 26). Sagah said the UPDLP was a standardised assessment for Year Six and Form Three students undertaking the dual language programme in Sarawak, developed by his ministry in collaboration with the federal Education Ministry, state Education Department, Swinburne Innovation Malaysia (SWIM) and state-owned universities. He said it covered three core subjects central to the Sarawak DLP curriculum, namely Science, Mathematics and English. "The examination papers for these subjects are developed by our local expert teachers, ensuring they are tailored to the programme's specific needs and context. "Crucially, all examination papers will also be thoroughly vetted and verified by Cambridge University Press and Assessment (CUP&A). This rigorous process guarantees that the assessments meet international standards," he said. SWIM signed a contract service agreement with CUP&A in Cambridge, Britain, on April 30 this year. On curriculum-related matters, Sagah said his ministry had no objection to the proposals by Bukit Semuja assemblyman John Ilus and Serembu assemblyman Miro Simuh to reintroduce Sarawak history in primary schools as well as environmental, social and governance (ESG) at pre-university level. "Nevertheless, as curriculum matters fall under the jurisdiction of the federal Education and Higher Education ministries, we will forward the proposals to them for their consideration," he said.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
SWIM Q1 Earnings Call: Latham Focuses on Sand States Expansion and Operational Efficiency
Residential swimming pool manufacturer Latham (NASDAQ:SWIM) met Wall Street's revenue expectations in Q1 CY2025, but sales were flat year on year at $111.4 million. The company's full-year revenue guidance of $550 million at the midpoint came in 2.5% above analysts' estimates. Its non-GAAP loss of $0.04 per share was in line with analysts' consensus estimates. Is now the time to buy SWIM? Find out in our full research report (it's free). Revenue: $111.4 million vs analyst estimates of $111.3 million (flat year on year, in line) Adjusted EPS: -$0.04 vs analyst estimates of -$0.05 (in line) Adjusted EBITDA: $11.14 million vs analyst estimates of $10.94 million (10% margin, 1.8% beat) The company reconfirmed its revenue guidance for the full year of $550 million at the midpoint EBITDA guidance for the full year is $95 million at the midpoint, above analyst estimates of $90.47 million Operating Margin: -4.4%, down from -1.9% in the same quarter last year Free Cash Flow was -$50.33 million compared to -$39.86 million in the same quarter last year Market Capitalization: $723.8 million Latham's first quarter results were shaped by stable demand for residential pools, with management highlighting sequential improvements in business activity through March and April. CEO Scott Rajeski pointed to relative strength in fiberglass and automatic pool covers, as well as early traction from the company's Sand States expansion strategy, which targets underpenetrated markets like Florida, Texas, Arizona, and California. The company also reported a 190 basis point improvement in gross margin, attributing this to ongoing lean manufacturing and value engineering initiatives. Looking ahead, Latham reaffirmed its full-year revenue and EBITDA guidance, with management emphasizing expectations for increased operating leverage as the year progresses. CFO Oliver Gloe noted that while tariff-related uncertainties remain, the company has taken steps to mitigate cost pressures through inventory pre-purchases, supply chain adjustments, and targeted price increases. Management also cited growing consumer engagement and dealer expansion in key markets as factors supporting its outlook for the rest of the year. Management's commentary focused on product mix, operational progress, and market expansion efforts rather than headline financials. The following themes emerged as central to Latham's performance in the first quarter: Fiberglass Pool Momentum: Latham observed ongoing market share gains in fiberglass pools, driven by consumer interest in cost, ease of installation, and lower labor requirements compared to concrete pools. Management expects fiberglass to capture additional share in the in-ground pool market this year. Auto Cover Growth and M&A: The automatic pool cover segment benefited from both organic growth and the integration of recent Coverstar dealer acquisitions. Auto covers are being promoted for cost savings, maintenance, and especially safety, with a new partnership aimed at raising water safety awareness. Sand States Expansion: The company's strategy to build presence in high-growth states like Florida and Texas is showing early success, including partnerships with major builders and the launch of new fiberglass models suited to these markets. Targeted marketing campaigns have increased brand engagement and web traffic in these regions. Lean Manufacturing and Value Engineering: Latham delivered an improvement in gross margin through operational efficiencies, which management views as structural and key to its ability to drive operating leverage as industry conditions normalize. AI-Driven Dealer Tools: The rollout of the Measure by Latham platform, which uses artificial intelligence to streamline pool liner and cover measurements, has attracted new dealers and is expected to support market share gains in these categories. Management's outlook for the remainder of the year centers on continued operational discipline, targeted market expansion, and the ability to offset inflationary and tariff-related pressures through pricing and supply chain actions. Sand States Penetration: The expansion into Florida, Texas, Arizona, and California is expected to drive incremental growth, with management citing early gains in dealer partnerships and product alignment for these markets. Tariff Mitigation: Latham's approach to managing tariff exposure includes pre-purchasing inventory, negotiating with suppliers, and implementing targeted price increases, with the goal of protecting margins even as raw material costs fluctuate. Marketing and Dealer Engagement: Increased investment in marketing and AI-powered dealer tools is intended to raise brand visibility and support higher conversion rates, particularly in regions where Latham has historically been underrepresented. Ryan Merkel (William Blair): Asked about expectations for SG&A leverage and margin expansion as the year progresses; management replied that SG&A growth should moderate, with leverage improving in the second half as sales increase. Andrew Carter (Stifel): Inquired about risks and opportunities in quick-install fiberglass pools; CEO Scott Rajeski emphasized that the pool buying journey is lengthy, with affluent customers driving steady demand and no signs of order cancellations. Robert Schultz (Baird): Questioned the timing and effectiveness of tariff-related price increases; CFO Oliver Gloe explained that seasonal price hikes and additional targeted increases are intended to match the cadence of tariff impacts. Greg Palm (Craig-Hallum): Asked whether recent marketing investments are driving immediate or longer-term sales conversions; management responded that brand awareness is rising, with some sales impact this year, but most benefits expected over the longer term. Sean Callan (Bank of America): Requested a breakdown of organic versus acquisition-driven growth in auto covers; management disclosed that both factors contributed, with approximately $3 million in growth attributed to recent acquisitions. In the coming quarters, the StockStory team will track (1) whether Latham's Sand States expansion drives accelerating dealer growth and market share, (2) the sustainability of margin improvements amid tariff and supply chain headwinds, and (3) the impact of marketing investments on consumer demand and dealer conversions. Additional signs of progress in AI-enabled dealer platforms and the integration of acquired businesses will be key indicators of execution. Latham currently trades at a forward P/E ratio of 44.9×. Should you load up, cash out, or stay put? Find out in our free research report. 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 Growth Stocks for this month. This is a curated list of our High Quality stocks that have generated a market-beating return of 176% over the last five years. 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-micro-cap company Kadant (+351% five-year return). Find your next big winner with StockStory today. 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Yahoo
02-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
2 Russell 2000 Stocks with Promising Prospects and 1 to Question
The Russell 2000 (^RUT) is home to many small-cap stocks, offering investors the chance to uncover hidden gems before the broader market catches on. However, these companies often come with higher volatility and risk, as their smaller size makes them more vulnerable to economic downturns. The high-risk, high-reward nature of the Russell 2000 makes stock selection critical, and we're here to guide you toward the right ones. That said, here are two Russell 2000 stocks that could be the next big thing and one best left off your watchlist. Market Cap: $654.1 million Started as a family business, Latham (NASDAQ:SWIM) is a global designer and manufacturer of in-ground residential swimming pools and related products. Why Are We Cautious About SWIM? Annual sales declines of 14.5% for the past two years show its products and services struggled to connect with the market Incremental sales over the last four years were much less profitable as its earnings per share fell by 21.4% annually while its revenue grew Negative returns on capital show that some of its growth strategies have backfired Latham is trading at $5.55 per share, or 52.2x forward P/E. Check out our free in-depth research report to learn more about why SWIM doesn't pass our bar. Market Cap: $3.50 billion With licenses to produce colognes and perfumes under brands such as Kate Spade, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Abercrombie & Fitch, Inter Parfums (NASDAQ:IPAR) manufactures and distributes fragrances worldwide. Why Are We Backing IPAR? Annual revenue growth of 18.2% over the last three years was superb and indicates its market share is rising Differentiated product offerings are difficult to replicate at scale and result in a premier gross margin of 58.7% Free cash flow margin jumped by 5.1 percentage points over the last year, giving the company more resources to pursue growth initiatives, repurchase shares, or pay dividends Inter Parfums's stock price of $109.04 implies a valuation ratio of 20.3x forward P/E. Is now the time to initiate a position? Find out in our full research report, it's free. Market Cap: $184.8 million Founded by an employee at a real estate rental company, SmartRent (NYSE:SMRT) provides smart home devices and software for multifamily residential properties, single-family rental homes, and student housing communities. Why Could SMRT Be a Winner? Impressive 35.1% annual revenue growth over the last four years indicates it's winning market share this cycle Ability to secure long-term commitments with customers is evident in its 41.5% average ARR growth over the past two years Incremental sales significantly boosted profitability as its annual earnings per share growth of 52.1% over the last two years outstripped its revenue performance At $0.96 per share, SmartRent trades at 1.2x forward price-to-sales. Is now a good time to buy? See for yourself in our comprehensive 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 175% over the last five years. Stocks that made our list in 2019 include now familiar names such as Nvidia (+2,183% between December 2019 and December 2024) as well as under-the-radar businesses like Sterling Infrastructure (+1,096% five-year return). Find your next big winner with StockStory today for free. Sign in to access your portfolio
