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Here's Why Hold Strategy Is Apt for Delek US Holdings Stock Now
DKDelek US(DK) ZACKS·2024-12-27 13:15

Core Insights - Delek is focusing on deconsolidating its midstream segment, Delek Logistics Partners, to unlock shareholder value while maintaining cash flow benefits [2] - The company is implementing a balanced capital allocation strategy that includes dividends, share buybacks, and growth investments, with a planned reduction in capital expenditures by 8080-100 million for 2025 [3] - Delek has transformed into a diversified downstream energy company with a focus on the Permian region, benefiting from lower pricing in this area [4] Factors Favoring DK Stock - The logistics segment achieved record EBITDA of 106.1millioninQ32024,drivenbystrongcontributionsfromDelawareGatheringsystemsandstrategicpipelinedevelopments[5]Delekreturned106.1 million in Q3 2024, driven by strong contributions from Delaware Gathering systems and strategic pipeline developments [5] - Delek returned 16.4 million in dividends and executed 20millioninsharebuybacksinQ32024,witharegularquarterlydividendof25.5centspershareannouncedforQ42024[6]CautionaryFactorsTherefiningsegmentexperiencedasignificantdeclineinadjustedEBITDAto20 million in share buybacks in Q3 2024, with a regular quarterly dividend of 25.5 cents per share announced for Q4 2024 [6] Cautionary Factors - The refining segment experienced a significant decline in adjusted EBITDA to 10.2 million in Q3 2024 from 296.1millioninQ32023,duetoa49.1296.1 million in Q3 2023, due to a 49.1% year-over-year drop in benchmark crack spreads [8] - The company faces earnings volatility due to fluctuations in crude oil prices and refining margins, with the logistics segment providing some stability [9] - As of September 30, 2024, Delek had consolidated long-term debt of 2.79 billion, resulting in a net debt position of $1.75 billion, which could pose risks if refining margins remain weak [10] - Limited growth in the core refining segment is evident, with throughput at key refineries falling below expectations [12]