Valaris(VAL)2022-05-03 17:38Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted EBITDA for Q1 2022 was negative 3 million in the prior quarter, while adjusted EBITDAR was 40 million in the prior quarter [41] - Revenues for Q1 2022 were 306 million in the prior quarter, with revenues excluding reimbursable items increasing to 283 million [41] - Contract drilling expense for Q1 2022 was 286 million in the prior quarter, with reactivation costs increasing to 37 million [42][43] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the jackup segment, new contracts commenced for Valaris 249, 117, and 114, contributing to higher utilization [41] - The Other segment saw revenue increases primarily due to higher day rates for managed rigs, Mad Dog and Thunder Horse, which received contract extensions [41] - The floater segment experienced revenue declines mainly due to Valaris DPS 5 being out of service for a survey [42] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Demand for hydrocarbons is expected to exceed 2019 levels by early 2023, with offshore upstream CapEx projected to see double-digit growth over the next few years [12][14] - Active utilization for benign environment jack-ups has increased to approximately 85%, with pricing improving [19] - The company anticipates Brazil to be a significant driver of offshore demand, with Petrobras seeking to double production by 2030 [17][18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to actively manage its fleet and contracting activities, having increased its contract backlog to over 1 billion at the beginning of 2021 [21] - The strategy includes reactivating high-quality stacked rigs for long-term contracts at attractive economics, while maintaining a disciplined approach to future reactivations [22][32] - The company plans to assess its fleet for retirement and divestiture candidates, acting opportunistically to divest assets if economically sensible [32][60] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that financial results are expected to improve significantly as reactivation projects are completed and rigs commence long-term contracts [32][56] - The company retains significant operational leverage to the improving market through its high-quality stacked fleet [32] - Management expressed confidence in capitalizing on opportunities during the industry upcycle, focusing on maximizing earnings and free cash flow [33][59] Other Important Information - The company reported a strong balance sheet with cash and cash equivalents of 550 million in senior secured notes due in 2028 [58] - ARO Drilling, a joint venture with Saudi Aramco, is expected to contribute significantly to the company's future earnings, with a backlog of approximately $1 billion [29][57] Q&A Session Summary Question: Regarding debt retirement and asset monetization - Management indicated that while there are reinvestment rights associated with the recent asset sale, there is a non-call period for the debt that ends in April next year, and they are focused on maintaining liquidity while exploring investment opportunities [64] Question: Interest from international oil companies (IOCs) in Brazil - Management noted strong interest from IOCs in Brazil, with Petrobras aiming to double production by 2030, which is expected to drive incremental demand for rigs [66]