FTAI Infrastructure (FIP) - 2024 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted EBITDA for 2024 was $127.6 million, up from $107.5 million in 2023, marking more than a doubling over the past two years [9] - The company anticipates total annual EBITDA of approximately $323 million, combining 2024 results with $195 million of incremental locked-in annual EBITDA under executed contracts [10] - The target for annual EBITDA is estimated to exceed $400 million, significantly higher than the previous target of just over $300 million [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Transtar reported Q4 revenue of $43.3 million and adjusted EBITDA of $19.4 million, compared to $44.8 million and $21.1 million in Q3 [26] - Jefferson generated $21.2 million in revenue and $11.1 million in adjusted EBITDA in Q4, up from $19.7 million and $11.8 million in Q3, excluding a one-time asset sale gain [29] - Long Ridge's EBITDA in Q4 was $9.9 million, down from $11.1 million in Q3, due to a planned maintenance outage [34] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is pursuing more new business opportunities than at any time since its spin-off, indicating a strong pipeline for growth [10] - The M&A market is described as the most active in years, with discussions on six opportunities representing well over $100 million of annual EBITDA [16][28] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to focus on substantial growth in 2025, with specific initiatives at Long Ridge, Repauno, and Jefferson [11][12][14] - Long Ridge's recent transactions are expected to enhance earnings significantly, allowing the company to capture 100% of the value creation [22] - The company is evaluating multiple products and counterparties at Jefferson, including crude oil, natural gas liquids, and renewables [41][46] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving substantial growth in 2025, driven by new contracts and business opportunities [11][12] - The anticipated increase in capacity payments and demand for power from hyperscalers is expected to positively impact Long Ridge's financials [36] - Management remains optimistic about the potential for M&A opportunities and the ability to finance acquisitions through debt markets [90] Other Important Information - The company has received approval for $300 million of tax-exempt debt, providing access to low-cost, long-term capital for construction projects [14] - The refinancing of corporate bonds and existing preferred stock is planned for the second quarter, aimed at reducing fixed charges and increasing cash flow [25][58] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expansion on new deals at Jefferson - Management is negotiating various products including crude oil, natural gas liquids, and renewables, with significant potential for growth [41][46] Question: Timing for Long Ridge's $160 million EBITDA - The full impact of the $160 million EBITDA from Long Ridge will be reflected in Q3, with partial contributions in Q1 and Q2 [48][50] Question: Update on Repauno permits and Phase 3 potential - Permits for the underground cavern are expected by the end of Q1, with Phase 3 potentially generating an incremental $100 million of EBITDA [62][64] Question: Transtar's organic growth target - Management remains confident in achieving a 15% organic growth rate, supported by anticipated increases in production levels [66][69] Question: M&A activity and financing - The company is evaluating several M&A opportunities and expects to announce a transaction within the next three months, with financing planned through debt markets [72][90]