Revenue and Financial Performance - Total revenue remained flat in 2024 compared to 2023, with international revenue increasing by 6% and North America revenue decreasing by 8%[16] - Approximately 40% of consolidated revenue in 2024 was derived from the United States, down from 44% in 2023[22] - The company returned $1.6 billion to shareholders through buybacks and dividends, consistent with its capital returns framework[16] - Capital expenditures were maintained at 6% of revenue, aligning with the target range of 5% - 6%[16] - The company aims to return at least 50% of annual free cash flow to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases, but this is subject to financial results and other factors[89] - The ability to declare dividends and repurchase shares is contingent on consistent free cash flow generation and available capital[90] Operational Efficiency and Safety - Operating margins for the Completion and Production segment were 20%, while the Drilling and Evaluation segment had 16% operating margins[16] - Total recordable incident rates improved to 0.24 in 2024 from 0.25 in 2023, indicating enhanced safety performance[37] - The company plans to continue driving efficiencies through the deployment of digital and automation technologies[16] - The company hired about 6,800 new employees in 2024, with a voluntary turnover rate of 8%[33] Market and Industry Risks - The demand for the company's services is sensitive to oil and natural gas prices, which are historically volatile and can significantly impact exploration and production activities[53] - Factors affecting oil and natural gas prices include supply and demand levels, OPEC+ production decisions, and governmental regulations[54] - The company’s business is dependent on capital spending by customers, and reductions in such spending could adversely affect its operations and financial condition[55] - Severe weather conditions could materially affect the company's operations, particularly in regions like Canada and the Gulf of Mexico[57] - Constraints in the supply of raw materials and electric power could adversely affect the company's business and consolidated results of operations[62] - Price increases from vendors for raw materials and transportation could have a material adverse effect if the company cannot pass these costs to customers[63] Regulatory and Compliance Challenges - Compliance with U.S. and international regulations is critical, as violations could materially affect the company's operations and financial condition[66] - The company is subject to complex and changing laws regarding import/export activities, which could lead to delays and penalties[69] - Future laws or regulations on hydraulic fracturing could make it more difficult to complete oil and gas wells, adversely impacting operations[73] - Liability for environmental cleanup costs could be substantial, affecting the company's financial condition[74] - Ongoing IRS audits regarding tax filings could result in adverse outcomes, impacting the company's financial results[81] Environmental and Technological Initiatives - The company expanded Halliburton Labs to a total of 38 participant and alumni organizations, focusing on sustainability and energy transition[16] - The company has invested considerable resources in developing hydraulic fracturing technologies, focusing on environmentally friendly options for hydraulic fracturing fluid additives[42] - The company has not faced any environmental liability claims related to hydraulic fracturing to date, although future obligations cannot be assured[44] Strategic Decisions and Acquisitions - A strategic decision was made to market a portion of the chemical business for sale in the third quarter of 2024[18] - Acquisitions and investments may not yield anticipated benefits and could present unforeseen risks, potentially impacting financial performance[95] Political and Economic Risks - The company is exposed to political and economic instability, particularly in regions such as the Middle East and North Africa, which could adversely affect operations and financial condition[84] - Risks include civil unrest, acts of terrorism, and currency fluctuations, which may lead to increased operational costs and disruptions in supply chains[85] - Changes in U.S. foreign trade policies could impose additional trade barriers and tariffs, adversely affecting the company's business[68] - Significant foreign currency exchange risks exist, particularly in countries with restricted cash repatriation, impacting the ability to convert profits into U.S. dollars[92] Management and Operational Risks - The company faces challenges in attracting and retaining technical personnel, which could increase costs and impair growth potential[65] - Integrated project management services may expose the company to additional risks, including cost overruns and delays due to reliance on third-party subcontractors[60] - The company faces challenges in managing joint ventures, where partner actions could adversely affect operations and financial outcomes[98] - The loss of significant customers or delays in payments could materially affect the company's financial results, as no single customer accounts for more than 10% of revenue[93][94] - The loss of key executive officers could have a material adverse effect on the company's operations and overall business[99] - Cybersecurity incidents pose a risk to the company's operations, with past incidents resulting in significant costs and operational disruptions[86]
Halliburton(HAL) - 2024 Q4 - Annual Report