Sunstone Hotel Investors(SHO) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The first quarter adjusted EBITDA was $57 million, and adjusted FFO was $0.21 per diluted share, reflecting a 17% increase from the prior year [25] - Comparable rooms RevPAR increased by 3.8% in the first quarter, while total RevPAR grew by 4.3%, contributing to an 80 basis point expansion in hotel margins [24] - The company repurchased $21 million of stock at a blended repurchase price of $8.9 per share, equating to a compelling multiple on earnings [15][16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Andaz Miami Beach opened on May 3, 2025, and is expected to contribute significantly to earnings growth in the coming years [6][7] - The recently renovated Marriott Long Beach Downtown posted a solid 145% increase in RevPAR [12] - Group production at Wailea was up nearly 20% in the first quarter relative to the prior year, indicating optimism for future growth [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Washington DC saw a 24% increase in RevPAR due to the inauguration, while New Orleans hotels grew RevPAR by 25% driven by the Super Bowl [8][9] - San Francisco generated RevPAR growth of 9% due to increased commercial activity [9] - The company noted softer performance in Wailea, but expects recovery as the Kaanapali submarket normalizes [11][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on a balanced and nimble approach to capital allocation, utilizing a strong balance sheet and future asset recycling to drive growth in FFO and NAV per share [7][17] - Capital investment activity for the year is expected to be in the range of $80 to $100 million, with ongoing renovations and upgrades across various properties [21] - The company aims to recycle capital and return value to shareholders through share repurchases and potential asset sales [16][66] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged increased macroeconomic uncertainty and declining business and consumer confidence, leading to a more cautious outlook for the year [14] - The updated outlook reflects expectations of total portfolio RevPAR growth ranging from 4% to 7% compared to 2024, with adjusted EBITDAre estimated between $235 million to $260 million [27][28] - Management remains optimistic about the long-term recovery in markets like San Francisco and Wailea, despite short-term challenges [10][56] Other Important Information - The company has nearly $150 million in total cash and cash equivalents, equating to approximately $650 million in total liquidity [26] - The Board of Directors authorized a $0.09 per share common dividend for the second quarter [29] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the underwriting trajectory for the Andaz Miami Beach? - Management expressed confidence in the Andaz's market positioning and expected EBITDA of $6 to $7 million for the resort this year, primarily in the fourth quarter [34][37] Question: Can you elaborate on the updated outlook and changes in Wailea? - The revised expectation for Andaz is $6 million to $7 million, with a $4 million forecast revision for Wailea due to a challenging operating environment [43][44] Question: What held back performance in Maui and how does it compare to peers? - Management noted that Wailea's luxury market is recovering, and as Kaanapali normalizes, they expect to benefit from increased demand [50][52] Question: What is the strategy regarding non-core assets and potential sales? - Management indicated a focus on recycling capital and remains open to divesting non-core assets when appropriate, with a current inclination to repurchase shares [62][66] Question: What are the expectations for luxury assets in the current market? - Management highlighted ongoing conversations regarding luxury assets, noting that while transaction volumes are slower, they remain focused on capital recycling [74][75]