Brookfield Business Partners L.P.(BBU) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - First quarter adjusted EBITDA was $591 million, compared to $544 million in the prior period, reflecting a year-over-year increase [19] - Adjusted EFO for the quarter was $345 million, which included a net gain of $114 million from the sale of an offshore oil services shuttle tanker operation [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Industrial segment generated first quarter adjusted EBITDA of $304 million, benefiting from $72 million in tax benefits at the advanced energy storage operation [19] - The Business Service segment's adjusted EBITDA was CAD 213 million, an increase from CAD 205 million in 2024, driven by strong performance in residential mortgage insurance and improved project execution in construction [20] - The Infrastructure Services segment's adjusted EBITDA was $104 million, down from $143 million in the same quarter last year, impacted by weak market conditions in work access services [21] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. remains an attractive destination for capital, with ongoing investments in the backbone of the economy [7][9] - Growth in Europe has lagged behind the U.S., but there are signs of a pro-growth agenda from governments [9] - India and the Gulf countries are highlighted as bright spots in the global economy, providing a conducive deal-making environment [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to own great businesses with market-leading positions and enhance their performance and cash flows [6] - There is a focus on capital recycling initiatives, with $1.5 billion generated and $370 million committed to acquiring two industrial businesses [5] - The company is prepared for uncertain days ahead but remains optimistic about the quality of its businesses and operational capabilities [11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges that most businesses will not be entirely insulated from tariffs or potential downturns in global growth, but they are confident in their operational capabilities to adapt [6][17] - The company is evaluating proactive measures across its businesses to mitigate potential headwinds and prepare for changing environments [15][17] - Management expects the longer-term impacts from U.S. trade policy could be positive for their businesses, despite recognizing near-term disruption risks [17] Other Important Information - The company has a liquidity of approximately CAD 2.3 billion at the corporate level, which supports ongoing capital allocation priorities [21] - A $250 million repurchase program was launched, with $140 million already returned to shareholders [5][22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact of tariffs on Dexco's EBITDA - Management indicated that performance in Q1 was in line with plans, with some recovery in North America, but the market remains muted. They are managing costs effectively to improve margins [25][26] Question: Status of Clarios' tax filing - Management confirmed that the tax return for 2024 is being processed normally, and they expect to receive tax benefits in due course [27][61] Question: Plans for returning capital to shareholders - Management stated they are always looking for monetization opportunities and have a balanced approach to deleveraging, returning capital, and new investments [30] Question: Realignment at Scientific Games - Management highlighted significant opportunities in digitizing the lottery ecosystem and has appointed a new head of digital to enhance value [35] Question: Participation in Barclays payments business - Management confirmed that BBU will participate in the Barclays investment, aligning with their strategy in financial infrastructure [37] Question: Performance of Unidos in Brazil - Management reported stable performance in the fleet management side, with the car rental side also performing well despite rising interest rates [49][52]