Kinetik (US:KNTK)2025-05-08 14:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Kinetic reported adjusted EBITDA of $250 million for Q1 2025, a 7% increase year-over-year driven by process gas volume growth and margin expansion in the Midstream Logistics segment [6][14] - Distributable cash flow was $157 million, and free cash flow was $120 million for the quarter [14] - The company affirmed full-year adjusted EBITDA guidance of $1.09 billion to $1.15 billion, expecting a meaningful acceleration in growth during the second half of the year [15][16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Midstream Logistics segment generated adjusted EBITDA of $159 million, up 11% year-over-year due to increased processed gas volumes and margin expansion from Northern Delaware assets [14] - The Pipeline Transportation segment reported adjusted EBITDA of $94 million, down 2% year-over-year, primarily due to the absence of contributions from Gulf Coast Express following its sale [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Kinetic's operations are primarily focused on the Permian Basin, which is expected to remain resilient despite macroeconomic challenges [8][10] - The company anticipates over 1 billion cubic feet per day of gas growth per year, even if Permian crude production remains flat [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Kinetic is focused on providing flow assurance and operational reliability to producer customers, with a strong emphasis on organic and inorganic growth opportunities [10][12] - The company announced a $500 million share repurchase program, reflecting confidence in its value proposition and commitment to returning capital to shareholders [6][13] - Kinetic is taking a measured approach to future spending, with less than $50 million of committed growth capital in 2026, allowing flexibility in investment decisions [12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the company's positioning to navigate macroeconomic uncertainties, highlighting a strong free cash flow profile and industry-leading earnings growth outlook [11][19] - The management noted that while commodity prices have declined, 83% of expected gross profit for 2025 is sourced from fixed fee agreements, providing stability [16][17] Other Important Information - Kinetic has made substantial progress on strategic projects, including the commissioning of the King's Landing complex, expected to unlock over 100 million cubic feet per day of currently curtailed volumes [16][19] - The company is also exploring behind-the-meter power generation opportunities, which could optimize costs and enhance operational efficiency [10][110] Q&A Session Summary Question: Long-term growth drivers - Management indicated that the company expects to maintain a 10% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) through 2029, driven by contractual resets and growth in New Mexico [21][24] Question: Capital allocation and buybacks - Management confirmed a flexible approach to capital allocation, emphasizing the value seen in the current share price and the potential for M&A opportunities [27][30] Question: Macro environment and CapEx adjustments - Management acknowledged uncertainty in the macro environment but indicated that they are seeing yellow lights rather than red, allowing for cautious progress on large infrastructure projects [54][55] Question: Commodity exposure and hedging - Management stated that approximately 83% of gross profit is fee-based, with only 15% directly tied to commodity prices, indicating a strong hedging strategy [61][62] Question: Performance of Barilla Draw assets - Management reported that the Barilla Draw acquisition has exceeded expectations, with significant activity anticipated in the coming years [105][106]