Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q4 2025, the company reported adjusted EBITDA of $232 million and free cash flow of $35 million, with full-year adjusted EBITDA slightly above the $1.1 billion midpoint of original guidance [4][24] - Total revenue for the full year 2025 was $3.3 billion, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 30% for Q4 [24][25] - The company maintained a return of capital program, returning an additional $80 million to shareholders through a $0.50 per share quarterly dividend in Q4 [4] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The backlog increased to $7.5 billion, with significant contracts awarded including a 3-year contract with Aker BP valued at $473 million and a 2-year contract with Exxon in Nigeria valued at $292 million [5][7] - The company expects capital expenditures of approximately $160 million for the reactivation of the Noble GreatWhite rig [6] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The contracted UDW rig count increased to 105, up from a low of 97 early last year, with a contracted utilization rate of 95% [11] - Day rates for Tier 1 drillships have settled around $400,000 per day, with lower-spec units capturing low to high $300,000 per day [13] - The average Brent crude price of $68 per barrel in 2025 was down by 15% compared to 2024, yet the company achieved a 30% year-over-year backlog growth [20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on high-end deepwater and CJ70 jackup markets, having sold five jackups to Borr Drilling for $360 million to unlock capital for fleet reinvestment [22][23] - The company aims to maintain robust shareholder capital returns and anticipates a meaningful step-up in free cash flow next year [21][31] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the demand for deepwater rigs, citing a robust pipeline of open demand and a potential tightening market by 2027 [34][80] - The company noted that while there are macro uncertainties, the backlog progress has formed a strong foundation for rising utilization, EBITDA, and free cash flow [20][31] Other Important Information - The company completed the sale of five jackups and expects to close the sale of the Noble Resolve for $64 million in Q3 [22][30] - The company is committed to the CJ70 market in Norway and the North Sea, with early indications of strong utilization outlook [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: Thoughts on industry consolidation - Management acknowledged that consolidation is a path for the industry and expressed hope that it will make the industry more efficient [39][40] Question: Scale and opportunities in the floater market - Management believes they have sufficient scale and will continue to evaluate opportunities that align with their strategy [41][42] Question: Strength in the sixth-generation market - Management indicated that the recent contracts are project-specific and not driven by value decisions from customers [46][50] Question: Conditions for upward momentum in rates - Management noted that both crude prices and additional rig contracts are necessary for a tighter market, expressing optimism for 2027 [52][53] Question: Day rate expectations for 2027 - Management sees potential for day rates to improve but stops short of making it a base case, indicating a 50/50 chance [58] Question: Negotiations with Petrobras - Management is hopeful for news in the coming months regarding ongoing negotiations with Petrobras [59][60] Question: Norwegian market outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism about the Norwegian market, noting contracts and ongoing conversations with multiple customers [66][68] Question: Future of the Globetrotter and Apex rigs - Management is pursuing niche drilling applications for the Globetrotter and is evaluating opportunities for the Apex rig [70]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q4 2025, the company reported adjusted EBITDA of $232 million and free cash flow of $35 million, with full-year adjusted EBITDA slightly above the $1.1 billion midpoint of original guidance [4][24] - Total revenue for 2025 was $3.3 billion, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 30% [24] - The total backlog as of February 11 stands at $7.5 billion, with approximately $2.3 billion scheduled for revenue conversion during the remainder of 2026 [25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has seen strong booking levels across its fleet, with significant contracts awarded, including a 3-year contract with Aker BP valued at $473 million and a 2-year contract with Exxon in Nigeria valued at $292 million [5][7] - The company anticipates capital expenditures of approximately $160 million for the reactivation of the Noble GreatWhite rig [6] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The contracted UDW rig count has increased to 105, up from a low of 97 early last year, with a contracted utilization rate of 95% [11] - Day rates for Tier 1 drillships have settled around $400,000 per day, with lower-spec units capturing low to high $300,000 per day [13] - The average Brent crude price of $68 per barrel in 2025 was down by 15% compared to 2024, yet the company achieved a 30% year-over-year backlog growth [20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on high-end deepwater and CJ70 jackup markets, having completed the sale of five jackups to Borr Drilling for $360 million [22][23] - The company aims to maintain robust shareholder capital returns while investing strategically in fleet upgrades and reactivations [21][23] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the future, anticipating a meaningful step-up in free cash flow next year, even in a flat market [21][31] - The company expects to see an upward bias in day rates due to improving utilization across the global fleet and encouraging leading indicators on forward demand [36] Other Important Information - The company has made significant strategic investments to support its offshore strategy, including modifications to the GreatWhite rig to enhance its capabilities [33] - The company is optimistic about the Norwegian market, with contracts secured for its CJ70 rigs and ongoing discussions with multiple customers [69] Q&A Session Summary Question: Thoughts on industry consolidation - Management acknowledged that consolidation is a path for the industry and expressed hope that it will make the industry more efficient [39][40] Question: Scale and opportunities in the floater market - Management believes they have sufficient scale and will continue to evaluate opportunities that align with their strategic focus [41][42] Question: Recent strength in the sixth-generation market - Management noted that the demand for sixth-generation rigs is project-specific and sustainable, not driven by value decisions from customers [46][50] Question: Conditions for upward momentum in rates - Management indicated that both crude prices and additional rig contracts are necessary for a tighter market, expressing optimism for 2027 [52][54] Question: Day rate expectations for 2027 - Management sees a possibility for day rates to improve into the mid-$400,000s range, depending on market conditions [58] Question: Negotiations with Petrobras - Management is hopeful for news in the coming months regarding ongoing negotiations with Petrobras, which are complex due to multiple dynamics [60][61] Question: Outlook for the Norwegian market and jackup fleet - Management expressed cautious optimism about the Norwegian market, noting contracts secured and potential for incremental demand [68][69] Question: Future of specific rigs in the fleet - Management is exploring opportunities for the Globetrotter and Apex rigs, with a focus on intervention and niche drilling applications [70][71] Question: Potential for more spot work in the U.S. Gulf - Management is optimistic about securing more opportunities for the BlackRhino rig in 2027, both domestically and internationally [77][78] Question: Concerns about project delays - Management acknowledged the risk of project delays but expressed confidence in the current backlog and market conditions for 2027 [80][81]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company secured $2 billion worth of contracts this year, with a total contract backlog reaching $4.7 billion, the highest in a decade [6][7] - Operational performance led to an increase in the midpoint of guidance by $55 million to $585 million for the year [7] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The fleet consists of 48 rigs, including 13 high-specification drillships, 2 semisubmersibles, and 33 jackups, with 12 of the 13 drillships being seventh-generation assets [4] - Day rates for seventh-generation drillships have been about 25% higher than the general market, with utilization rates approximately 10 percentage points higher [5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company sees a strong case for offshore drilling, particularly in deepwater, as customers increasingly turn to deepwater to meet resource needs [7] - The jackup market has maintained utilization rates above 90%, despite challenges in the Saudi market [34] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company focuses on operational excellence, successful contracting, and astute commercial strategy to deliver long-term value for shareholders [8] - The strategy includes securing long-term contracts and managing the fleet effectively to avoid oversupply in the market [26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted a positive outlook for deepwater utilization, expecting to exit 2026 with utilization levels above 90% [16][17] - The company anticipates an increase in exploration activity and greenfield development offshore in the coming years, driven by economic viability at current oil prices [40][41] Other Important Information - The company has a strong balance sheet and is considering shareholder returns, with flexibility enhanced by the sale of Valaris 247 for over $100 million [39] - Reactivation costs for cold-stacked rigs are estimated to remain in the range of $120 million to $125 million [28] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the overall tone from customer conversations regarding deepwater outlook? - Management reflected on the transition from uncertainty to a more positive outlook, with a good pace of contracting expected as operators prepare for future programs [10][12] Question: What are the expectations for contract announcements and pricing in the second half of next year? - Management indicated that pricing is expected to follow supply-demand dynamics, with positive pricing momentum anticipated as the market tightens [14][18] Question: Can you discuss opportunities for the DF-12 rig? - Management is focused on securing long-term contracts for the DF-12, with a strong pipeline of opportunities in Africa and other regions [19][20] Question: What is the outlook for the jackup market? - Management expressed confidence in the jackup market, highlighting strong contract coverage and growth in average day rates and operating days [33][34] Question: What is the company's stance on M&A? - Management supports consolidation in the industry but emphasized that the company already has the necessary scale and fleet quality, making M&A a secondary consideration [35][36] Question: When can shareholders expect returns? - Management stated that capital returns will be considered once sustained cash generation is achieved, with positive markers indicating flexibility for returns [38][39]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company secured $2 billion worth of contracts this year, with a total contract backlog reaching $4.7 billion, the highest in a decade [6][7] - Operational performance led to an increase in the midpoint of guidance by $55 million to $585 million for the year [7] - The company reported a revenue efficiency of 96%, indicating strong operational execution [5] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The fleet consists of 48 rigs, including 13 high-specification drillships, 2 semisubmersibles, and 33 jackups, with 12 of the drillships being seventh-generation assets [4] - Day rates for seventh-generation drillships have been approximately 25% higher than the general market, with utilization rates about 10 percentage points higher [5] - The company has successfully contracted three out of four drillships with near-term availability, all at rates exceeding $400,000 per day [21] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company sees a strong case for offshore drilling, particularly in deepwater, as customers increasingly turn to deepwater to meet resource needs [7] - The pipeline of opportunities remains robust, with around 30 opportunities tracked for term programs starting in the next couple of years [16] - The jackup market has maintained utilization rates above 90%, indicating a healthy demand environment [35] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company focuses on operational excellence, successful contracting, and astute commercial strategy to deliver long-term value for shareholders [8] - The strategy includes seeking long-term contracts while also being open to shorter-term opportunities if they align with business goals [23] - The company is well-positioned in the jackup market, with a strong presence in both benign and harsh environments, particularly through its joint venture with Saudi Aramco [34][36] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the recovery of the seventh-generation drillship market, expecting utilization levels to exceed 90% by the end of 2026 [19] - The company anticipates positive pricing momentum as the market tightens, driven by supply-demand dynamics [20] - Management noted that offshore developments are becoming increasingly economic at current oil prices, with many projects expected to be sanctioned in the next few years [42][43] Other Important Information - The company has a strong balance sheet and is considering shareholder returns, with flexibility enhanced by the sale of Valaris 247 for over $100 million [41] - Reactivation costs for cold-stacked rigs are estimated to remain in the range of $120 million to $125 million, with a timeline of about a year for reactivation [31][32] Q&A Session Summary Question: Overall tone from customer conversations and deepwater outlook - Management noted a positive shift in customer conversations, with an expectation of increased contracting activity as operators prepare for program startups in 2026 [15] Question: Pricing expectations for drillships - Management indicated that while pricing may see a broader range due to market dynamics, contracts secured have been above $400,000, reflecting strong operational performance [18] Question: Opportunities for the DF-12 rig - Management is optimistic about finding a long-term contract for the DF-12, particularly in Africa, where demand is expected to grow [22] Question: Outlook for jackup market - Management highlighted the strong performance of the jackup fleet, particularly through the ARO Drilling JV, with significant contract extensions secured [34] Question: Corporate M&A strategy - Management expressed openness to M&A opportunities that create value and enhance fleet quality, although they do not see an immediate need for consolidation [38] Question: Shareholder returns timeline - Management stated that capital returns will be considered once sustained cash generation is achieved, with the potential for returns in the second half of the year [40]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenues for the second quarter were $615 million, a slight decrease from $621 million in the prior quarter, primarily due to the completion of a contract for Valaris DS-12 without follow-on work [28] - Adjusted EBITDA increased to $201 million from $181 million in the prior quarter, driven by a favorable arbitration outcome that provided a total benefit of $24 million [29] - Adjusted free cash flow for the quarter was $63 million, with cash and cash equivalents at $516 million, contributing to total liquidity of nearly $900 million [30][32] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company added over $1 billion in new contract backlog, increasing total backlog to approximately $4.7 billion, the highest in a decade [5][34] - For floaters, $860 million was added to the backlog, while jackups contributed $145 million [16] - The jackup fleet maintained robust contract coverage, with over 70% of available days contracted for 2026 and 60% for 2027 [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global marketed utilization for jackups ended the second quarter at 90%, driven by national oil companies prioritizing energy security [24] - The offshore drilling market is expected to see meaningful growth in deepwater project sanctioning in 2026 and 2027, with over 75% of deepwater spending expected to be sanctioned at breakeven prices below $50 per barrel [10][9] - The company is tracking more than 30 floater opportunities with planned start dates in 2026 or 2027, indicating a healthy pipeline for future contracts [10][18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on delivering operational performance, executing a commercial strategy, and maintaining disciplined cost and fleet management to drive long-term value for shareholders [4][12] - The strategy includes securing long-term contracts for high-specification assets and exploring short-term gap-fill opportunities as they arise [14][40] - The company plans to actively manage its fleet in response to market conditions, including retiring rigs when their economic benefit no longer justifies associated costs [14][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the offshore drilling market, noting that customers are prioritizing long-cycle offshore projects and that the demand for deepwater production remains strong [9][10] - The company anticipates additional contract awards across the industry in the coming months, supported by a healthy pipeline of opportunities [10][18] - Management highlighted a positive shift in customer sentiment, with increased confidence in contracting rigs and moving forward with developments [82] Other Important Information - The company completed the sale for recycling of three semisubmersibles, reflecting a proactive approach to fleet management [14] - The company expects total CapEx for the third quarter to be between $100 million and $110 million, including ongoing fleet maintenance and contract-specific upgrades [31][32] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide more details on the shorter-term contracts for the drillships? - Management indicated that the average duration for shorter-term contracts varies and that they are well-positioned to service these opportunities with their high-spec fleet [38][39] Question: How many of the 30 planned floater opportunities have been pushed back? - Management clarified that while some opportunities have shifted, the pipeline remains robust with new work replenishing the opportunities [50][51] Question: What is the outlook for day rates on upcoming contracts? - Management expects day rates to remain stable in the low $400s for upcoming contracts, with potential for increases as utilization improves [58][62] Question: What are the expectations for Petrobras' rig count and tendering schedule? - Management expressed optimism about Petrobras maintaining a stable rig count and indicated that multiple tenders are expected, which could lead to increased contracting opportunities [70][73] Question: What is the company's approach to returning capital to shareholders? - Management remains committed to returning capital to shareholders and indicated that strong operational performance and upcoming rig sales will enhance flexibility for capital returns [88][89]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenues for the second quarter were $615 million, a slight decrease from $621 million in the prior quarter, primarily due to the completion of a contract for Valaris DS-12 without follow-on work [29] - Adjusted EBITDA increased to $201 million from $181 million in the prior quarter, driven by a favorable arbitration outcome that provided a total benefit of $24 million [30] - Adjusted free cash flow for the quarter was $63 million, with cash and cash equivalents at $516 million, contributing to total liquidity of nearly $900 million [31][32] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company added over $1 billion in new contract backlog, increasing total backlog to approximately $4.7 billion, the highest in a decade [5][17] - For floaters, approximately $860 million was added to the backlog, while jackups contributed $145 million [17] - The jackup fleet maintained robust contract coverage, with over 70% of available days contracted for 2026 and 60% for 2027 [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The offshore drilling market shows strong long-term fundamentals, with a healthy pipeline of more than 30 floater opportunities planned for 2026 or 2027 [10][20] - Global jackup utilization remained resilient at 90%, driven by national oil companies prioritizing energy security [11][25] - The majority of deepwater spending expected to be sanctioned in the next three years is tied to programs with breakeven prices below $50 per barrel, compared to a five-year forward price above $65 per barrel [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company focuses on delivering operational excellence, executing a commercial strategy, and maintaining disciplined cost and fleet management to drive long-term shareholder value [4][12] - The strategy includes securing long-term contracts for high-specification assets and exploring short-term gap-fill opportunities [13][44] - The company is actively managing its fleet in response to market conditions, including retiring rigs when their economic benefit no longer justifies associated costs [13][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the offshore production's role in meeting global energy needs, particularly in deepwater projects [9] - There is an expectation of meaningful growth in deepwater project sanctioning in 2026 and 2027, with customers prioritizing long-cycle offshore developments [10] - Management noted a more positive outlook from customers regarding contracting and development programs compared to six months ago [82] Other Important Information - The company completed the sale for recycling of three semisubmersibles, reflecting the challenged global market for this asset class [13][14] - The company remains committed to returning capital to shareholders, with strong operational performance providing flexibility for capital returns [88][90] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on short-term contracts for drillships - Management indicated that average duration for short-term contracts varies and that they are well-positioned to service these opportunities across different locations [41][42] Question: Update on planned floater opportunities - Management clarified that the pipeline remains about 30 opportunities, replenished with new work, and expressed confidence in continued contract awards [52][54] Question: Thoughts on day rates for upcoming contracts - Management expects day rates to follow utilization trends, with seventh-generation rigs leading the recovery and potentially exiting 2026 with utilization above 90% [65] Question: Timing for reactivating cold stacked drillships - Management emphasized a focus on securing contracts for active rigs before considering reactivation of cold stacked units, with good opportunities for DS-12 in 2026 [68] Question: Petrobras tendering schedule - Management expressed optimism about Petrobras maintaining a stable rig count and the potential for multiple rigs to be contracted in upcoming tenders [72][76]