Seadrill(SDRL) - 2024 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For the full year 2024, the company delivered $378 million of adjusted EBITDA on$ 1.4 billion of revenue, with capital expenditures of $118 million [38][39] - The fourth-quarter total operating revenues were$ 289 million, primarily impacted by fewer operating days due to planned out-of-service time and cold stacking of rigs [40] - The company maintained a strong balance sheet with gross principal debt of $625 million and cash holdings of$ 505 million, resulting in a net debt position of $120 million [42] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company returned over$ 500 million in capital to shareholders and had a contracted backlog of $1.3 billion, with$ 400 million from divesting non-core assets [8][9] - The share repurchase program returned a total of $792 million to shareholders, reducing the issued share count by 22% since September 2023 [9][44] - The West Vela secured additional work, adding$ 20 million to backlog, while the West Jupiter and West Telus were awarded three-year contracts with Petrobras, commencing in 2026, providing $1 billion in incremental backlog [28][30] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The drillship marketed utilization is currently in the mid-eighties, down from the high nineties in 2023, indicating a softening market [32] - The company has approximately 75% of available rig days contracted across its marketed fleet in 2025, insulating it from market volatility [32] - The market outlook indicates a slow pace of contracting in 2025 due to capital discipline and supply chain constraints, with around 30 floaters available globally without firm contracts [31] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to be a pure-play floater company, having executed a strategy to rationalize its fleet and divest non-core assets [49][50] - The focus remains on delivering safe and efficient operations while optimizing the cost base to navigate market volatility [25][140] - The company is positioned to capitalize on future demand increases, particularly in deepwater projects, which are expected to be more profitable with lower carbon emissions intensity [11][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about future demand, although visibility remains unclear due to current market conditions [12] - The company is prepared to navigate regulatory challenges in Brazil and is actively engaging with clients and regulatory bodies to address new expectations [55][90] - The management highlighted the importance of maintaining a low-cost operating structure to remain competitive in the industry [140] Other Important Information - The company reported legal matters involving Petrobras, with claims amounting to approximately$ 213 million related to delayed penalties from contracts dating back to 2012 [22][21] - The company intends to vigorously defend its position regarding these claims and is evaluating all options, including potential counterclaims [23][58] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide details on the 50 days of downtime for the Telus? - Management confirmed the downtime was due to a protracted regulatory clearance process, not a change in rules [54][55] Question: Is the claim from Petrobras related to the Sete rigs a new claim? - Management indicated surprise at the claim and noted that penalties are capped at 10% of the contract value [57][58] Question: What is the tone of conversations with clients regarding project economics? - Management noted an increase in exploration activity and optimism for future demand, particularly for projects starting in 2026 and 2027 [66][68] Question: How will operating expenses be managed for rigs without clear work? - Management stated that they will be disciplined and may stack rigs if there is no clear line of sight for work [83] Question: What is the company's stance on share buybacks given the current uncertainty? - Management acknowledged the attractive share price but emphasized the need for cash conservation and board consultation before further buybacks [111][112] Question: How does the new leadership at ANP affect regulatory scrutiny? - Management noted that the regulatory focus can shift and emphasized the importance of adapting to new expectations [90][102]