Western Midstream Partners (WES) Q2 2025 Earnings Call August 12, 2025 07:00 AM ET Company ParticipantsDaniel Jenkins - Director - IRKristen Shults - SVP & CFOJonathon VandenBrand - SVP - CommercialDaniel JenkinsWelcome to Western Midstream's second quarter twenty twenty five post earnings call fireside chat with our chief financial officer, Kristen Schulz, and our senior vice president of commercial, John Vandenbrand. Kristen, I'll start with you. Can you give us an overview of WES' record second quarter f ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The second quarter of 2025 marked the highest adjusted EBITDA in the history of the partnership, indicating a successful operational performance [1] - Operational expenditures (OpEx) remained relatively flat compared to Q1 2025, reflecting ongoing cost optimization efforts [2] - Expectations for throughput growth rates remain consistent, with gas projected to grow in the mid-single digits, crude oil in low single digits, and water in mid-single digits [3] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Delaware Basin achieved record levels of oil, gas, and water production, significantly contributing to the increase in adjusted EBITDA and adjusted gross margin [2] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is experiencing increased costs related to higher water volumes and overall throughput, but is managing these through internal cost optimization strategies [2][3] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company has sanctioned a second train at the North Loving plant, expected to come online in 2027, driven by strong support from existing agreements and successful organic development [4][5] - The Pathfinder pipeline project is on track for development and is expected to enhance long-term flow assurance solutions for customers [6] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term delivery of existing contract structures and the positive discussions with producers regarding future projects [5][6] - The capital budget for 2026 is projected to be at least $1.1 billion, with significant spending allocated to new projects like Pathfinder and North Loving 2, which are expected to drive growth [7][8][9] Other Important Information - The company plans to adjust its capital plans for 2026 based on updated forecasts from producers in the second half of the year [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the decision to sanction another plant right now? - The decision was based on strong support from existing agreements and confidence in long-term delivery from producers [4][5] Question: What is the status of the Pathfinder pipeline project? - The project is on track for development and is expected to provide long-term flow assurance solutions [6] Question: What is included in the capital budget for 2026? - The budget includes significant spending on new projects and normal business operations, with expectations of continued growth in throughput [7][8][9]