Kirby Q4 Earnings Call Highlights

Core Insights - Kirby Corporation reported record earnings for 2025, with strong operational and financial momentum despite seasonal challenges in the fourth quarter [4][3] - The company generated $406 million in free cash flow and returned capital to shareholders through share repurchases and debt reduction [7][3] - Kirby expects steady financial performance in 2026, with projected operating cash flow between $575 million and $675 million [19] Marine Transportation - Marine Transportation revenue for the fourth quarter was $482 million, with operating income of $100 million and operating margins in the low-20% range [1] - Inland marine market conditions improved towards the end of the quarter, with utilization nearing 90% and mixed pricing trends [7][6] - Coastal marine revenue increased by 22% year over year, supported by high utilization rates in the mid- to high-90% range [9][6] Distribution & Services - Distribution & Services revenue was $370 million in the fourth quarter, with operating income of $30 million and an operating margin of 8.1% [11] - Power generation revenue rose 47% year over year, contributing significantly to segment growth, while oil and gas revenues declined by 45% [12][13] - The segment is expected to see flat to slightly higher revenues in 2026, driven by strength in power generation [17] Financial Position - At the end of 2025, Kirby had $79 million in cash and approximately $920 million in total debt, with a debt-to-capital ratio of 21.4% [2] - The company reduced debt by roughly $130 million during the fourth quarter and had total available liquidity of about $542 million [2][7] - Capital expenditures for the fourth quarter were $47 million, with expectations of $220 million to $260 million in 2026 [19] 2026 Outlook - Kirby anticipates inland revenue growth in the low- to mid-single digits for 2026, with utilization expected to average in the low 90% range [15] - Coastal revenue growth is projected to be mid-single-digit, supported by gradual pricing improvements [16] - The company highlighted potential macro factors, such as Venezuelan oil flows and tariff developments, as sources of near-term uncertainty [14]