DigitalBridge (DBRG) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported fee revenues of $90 million, an increase of 24$35 million, up almost 80% year-over-year [28][29] - Distributable earnings for the quarter were $55 million, which included a$34 million gain from the partial realization of the investment in DataBank [29][31] - Fee earning equity under management increased to $37.3 billion, a 15$1.2 billion in new fee earning equity commitments during the first quarter, contributing to the overall growth in fee revenues [29][30] - The fundraising was primarily driven by the flagship Digital Ridge Partner strategy, which represented over 70% of the total fundraising [5][6] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted that while fundraising decisions were delayed due to market volatility, investor interest in digital infrastructure remains strong [10][11] - The company highlighted that the digital infrastructure asset class has shown resilience during periods of market uncertainty, with a focus on long-term contracts that protect revenue streams [12][14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on building a diversified portfolio across digital infrastructure, including investments in data centers, fiber, and towers [23][24] - The recent acquisition of Crown Castle's fiber business by Zayo for $4.5 billion is expected to enhance the company's market position and improve returns [25][26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving 2025 goals despite short-term fundraising delays, emphasizing the resilience of the digital infrastructure sector [10][11] - The company is optimistic about the long-term demand for digital infrastructure, driven by secular trends rather than cyclical demand [14][15] Other Important Information - The company has committed over$28 billion in CapEx for new site development over the next 24 months, indicating strong growth plans [13] - The management team is focused on scaling the private credit platform, with a target to deploy up to $2 billion in loans during 2025 [36][39] Q&A Session Summary Question: Are the guidance items for FRE growth and margins maintained? - Management confirmed that the guidance for total company FRE growth of 10% to 20% and FRE margins of 34.5% is maintained [53][54] Question: How is market volatility impacting carried interest events? - Management noted that while deal-making has slowed in the U.S., global M&A activity is up, and they remain confident in creating carried interest outcomes this year [56][59] Question: What steps can be taken to close the valuation disconnect with peers? - Management emphasized the importance of execution and consistency in delivering on fundraising targets and FRE goals to regain investor trust [62][63] Question: What is the current sentiment from potential investors regarding fundraising? - Management reported that most investors have not changed their allocation strategies, and there is still strong interest in digital infrastructure investments [74][75] Question: Is there a shift in investor interest towards credit strategies? - Management indicated an uptick in interest in credit strategies, with a significant increase in the pipeline for the credit fund [101][102]