The first six months of 2025 were some of the most eventful in recent memory. Managing geopolitical concerns, tariff uncertainty, supply chain disruption, interest rate ambiguity and market gyrations, among other issues, had the C-Suite and Board navigating a volatile global environment that required short-term solutions while remaining in pursuit of long-term growth and innovation. This dynamism has created an environment in which companies across many industries have been driven to re-examine various aspects of their businesses and, as importantly, adjust their expectations.

With quarterly results just around the corner for many smaller public companies, the C-Suite and their IR team should consider the following when preparing their quarterly materials and commentary:

• Review current expectations of the company’s Q2 and 2H results in the market.
• Assess the company’s previous messaging, including prepared remarks and Q&A on the last few quarterly calls, and identify areas that need to be updated.
• Evaluate which aspects of the business have remained strong or even thrived. For those areas that have struggled, explain why and detail what is being done to remedy or mitigate any issues.
• Research peer commentary, with a particular focus on how they are addressing similar micro/macro challenges.
• Re-calibrate expectations, if necessary.
• Prioritize appropriate financial metrics, but remain consistent.
• Conduct research to understand what will likely be asked during the Q&A session, and prepare appropriate responses.
• Be mindful of certain keywords, phrases, or changes in tone that can be flagged by program traders using AI tools.
• Focus on messaging and topics of interest for upcoming conferences and NDRs.
• Speak in plain, unequivocal language.

Companies can offer a comprehensive assessment on where they currently stand, while re-orienting investors towards a proper understanding of the business, long-term opportunity and appropriate valuation.

A thoughtful and thorough approach to IR during turbulent times builds investor trust and confidence in advance of clearer days ahead.