Western Midstream(WES) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income attributable to limited partners of $302 million and adjusted EBITDA of $594 million for Q1 2025 [15] - Adjusted gross margin decreased by $8 million compared to the previous quarter, primarily due to decreased throughput and the absence of favorable revenue recognition adjustments from the previous quarter [15][16] - Free cash flow for the first quarter was $399 million, with cash flow from operating activities totaling $531 million [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Natural gas throughput decreased by 2% sequentially, primarily due to lower volumes from the DJ Basin and Powder River Basin, partially offset by growth in South Texas and Utah [9] - Crude oil and NGL throughput decreased by 6% sequentially, with operated crude oil and NGLs throughput down by 3% [10] - Produced water throughput also decreased by 2% sequentially due to timing of wells coming online and increased recycling activity [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Delaware Basin is expected to continue being the main engine of throughput growth in 2025, with modest year-over-year throughput increases anticipated for all product lines [12] - The company expects average year-over-year throughput growth of mid-single digits for natural gas and produced water, and low-single digits for crude oil and NGLs [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company has completed the commissioning of the North Loving plant, increasing natural gas processing capacity by approximately 13% [5] - The company emphasizes prudent capital allocation and plans to maintain a strong balance sheet with net leverage at or below 3x, allowing for growth while increasing distributions [20] - The company is focused on organic growth projects backed by minimum volume commitments to ensure stability during commodity price fluctuations [19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the recent market volatility has not changed their strategy or priorities, and they remain optimistic about potential acquisition opportunities [24] - The company is closely monitoring customer activity and capital discipline in light of recent commodity price weakness, but has not adjusted its guidance [26][44] - Management expressed confidence in their ability to navigate various business environments due to a strong contract portfolio and engaged workforce [70] Other Important Information - The company declared a quarterly distribution of $0.91 per unit, representing a 4% increase over the prior quarter [17] - Bob Phillips, former CEO of Crestwood Equity Partners, has joined the board as an independent director, bringing significant midstream expertise [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: How will capital allocation change in a slower growth environment? - Management stated that their strategy remains unchanged, and they are prepared to take advantage of acquisition opportunities if organic growth slows [24] Question: What is the guidance for the second half of the year? - Management confirmed that they expect volumes to pick up, driven by West Texas and Uinta, with no material changes to their outlook [26] Question: Any updates on the PATHFINDER project contracts? - Management reported positive conversations with customers and midstream providers, seeking minimum volume commitments for the pipeline [32] Question: How recent are conversations with producer customers regarding CapEx cuts? - Management indicated that discussions are ongoing and real-time, with no significant changes in guidance despite some producers announcing CapEx cuts [41][44] Question: How will CapEx look if Permian production is flat? - Management suggested that CapEx would likely be at the low end of guidance if production remains flat, as they can adjust spending based on producer activity [66] Question: What are the priorities for return of capital and buybacks? - Management emphasized that capital allocation focuses on sustaining or growing distributions, with buybacks considered if returns on equity exceed growth opportunities [52]