Core Insights - Precision Drilling reported a net loss of CAD 42 million in the fourth quarter, primarily due to non-cash charges related to rig decommissioning and drill pipe adjustments, but excluding these, net income would have been CAD 42 million, a significant improvement from CAD 15 million in the same quarter of the previous year [2][7] - The company achieved adjusted EBITDA of CAD 126 million in Q4, slightly up from CAD 121 million year-over-year, indicating stable operational performance [3][7] - Precision's strategy focuses on debt reduction, share repurchases, and maintaining steady operations, with expectations for increased activity in 2026 supported by long-term contracts [4][5] Financial Performance - In Q4, Precision averaged 66 active rigs in Canada, with daily operating margins reported at CAD 14,132, down from CAD 14,559 in Q4 2024 [1] - The U.S. operations averaged 37 active rigs, with daily margins of $8,754, slightly higher than the previous quarter [7] - Internationally, the company averaged seven active rigs, with day rates increasing by 8% year-over-year to $53,505 due to fewer non-billable days [8] Guidance and Strategy - For Q1 2026, Precision anticipates a peak rig count of 87 in Canada, with operating margins expected between CAD 14,000 and CAD 15,000 per day [12] - The U.S. rig count is expected to remain steady at 37, with margins projected between $8,000 and $9,000 per day [13] - The company plans to allocate CAD 245 million for capital expenditures in 2026, focusing on sustaining and infrastructure investments [15] Debt and Shareholder Returns - Precision reduced its net debt by CAD 101 million in 2025, achieving a net debt-to-adjusted EBITDA ratio of 1.2x, and repurchased CAD 76 million of shares [6][9] - The company aims to allocate 35% to 45% of free cash flow to share buybacks, aligning with its commitment to shareholder returns [9] International Operations - Precision is pursuing international reactivations in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, with plans to deploy additional rigs in these markets [19][20] - An MOU in Argentina aims to leverage idle rigs and digital technology, potentially leading to the deployment of 1-3 rigs over the next couple of years [20][21] Operational Insights - The company is focusing on enhancing customer relationships and exploring creative commercial arrangements to drive revenue growth [17] - Management noted that the rig decommissioning charge was a strategic decision based on industry trends, with plans to strip usable parts from decommissioned rigs [23]