Delek US(DK)2025-02-25 21:32Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Delek Logistics reported approximately $107 million in quarterly adjusted EBITDA, an increase from $100.9 million in the same period of 2023, representing a growth of about 1.3% [6][16] - Distributable cash flow as adjusted was $69.5 million, with a DCF coverage ratio of approximately 1.2 times, expected to return to a long-term objective of 1.3 times in the second half of 2025 [16][11] - The company initiated a strong 2025 EBITDA guidance of $480 to $520 million, indicating around 20% growth over 2024 adjusted EBITDA [11][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the gathering and processing segment, adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $66 million, up from $53.3 million in Q4 2023, driven by higher throughput from Permian Basin assets [17] - Wholesale marketing and terminalling adjusted EBITDA decreased to $21.2 million from $28.4 million in the prior year, primarily due to lower wholesale margins [18] - Storage and transportation adjusted EBITDA increased slightly to $17.8 million compared to $17.5 million in Q4 2023, attributed to higher storage and transportation rates [18] - Investments in pipeline joint ventures contributed $11.3 million this quarter, up from $8.5 million in Q4 2023, mainly due to contributions from the Wink to Webster drop down [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company emphasized its strong position in the Permian Basin and highlighted the successful acquisitions in the Midland Basin, which enhance its competitive position [9][10] - The expansion of the processing plant in the Delaware Basin is on track to complete in the first half of 2025, which is expected to further strengthen market presence [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Delek US Holdings is focused on becoming a premier full-service crude, natural gas, and water provider in the Permian Basin, with plans for continued growth in 2025 [7] - The company is enhancing its economic separation from Delek US Holdings, with a $150 million buyback program authorized to enhance value for unit holders [12][13] - The board approved the 48th consecutive increase in the quarterly distribution to $1.10 per unit, reflecting a commitment to value creation [13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the guidance provided, highlighting the company's growth trajectory and the importance of economic separation from its sponsor [27][32] - The management noted strong demand in the Delaware area and the comprehensive offering of crude, gas, and water as key factors driving future growth [44] Other Important Information - The capital program for Q4 was $49.4 million, with $42.1 million allocated to the new gas processing plant and the remainder for growth projects [20] - For 2025, the company expects to spend approximately $75 million on completing the Lindy processing plant expansion and about $160 million on growth and maintenance projects [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: EBITDA guidance and high-end drivers - Management acknowledged the conservative guidance and discussed the potential drivers for the high end of the EBITDA range, emphasizing the company's growth and economic separation efforts [25][26] Question: Buyback program execution and funding - Management indicated that the buyback program would be executed over two years, with funding likely from free cash flow, considering the cost of capital advantages [29][33] Question: Drivers of EBITDA upside potential - Management highlighted several transactions, including the Gravity and H2O deals, as well as the Lindy plant expansion, contributing to the positive EBITDA outlook [39][40] Question: Demand and utilization of key assets - Management confirmed strong demand for assets in the Delaware area and the strategic expansion in the Midland Basin, which is expected to yield positive results [42][44]