DigitalBridge (DBRG)2025-05-01 13:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported fee revenues of $90 million, an increase of 24% year-over-year, and FRE of $35 million, up almost 80% year-over-year [27][28] - Distributable earnings for the quarter were $55 million, which included a $34 million gain from the partial realization of an investment in DataBank [28] - Fee earning equity under management increased to $37.3 billion, a 15% increase from the previous year [28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company raised $1.2 billion in new fee earning commitments during the first quarter, contributing to the growth in fee revenues [28] - The fundraising for the flagship Digital Ridge Partner strategy represented over 70% of total fundraising [5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted that despite financial market volatility, allocators are still investing in digital infrastructure, indicating a strong pipeline of investor interest [6][10] - The performance of digital infrastructure assets has been resilient, with private infrastructure delivering solid returns compared to other asset classes [18][20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on building a diversified portfolio across digital infrastructure, including investments in fiber, small cells, and mobile infrastructure [22][23] - The 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 [24][25] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving 2025 goals despite some delays in fundraising decisions due to market conditions [9][10] - The company is positioned to benefit from long-term contracts and inflation protection, which are expected to mitigate short-term impacts from market volatility [11][12] 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 [12] - The management team emphasized the importance of maintaining a conservative approach to asset valuation to ensure credibility with investors [91][92] Q&A Session Summary Question: Is the guidance for total company 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 are still looking for carried interest opportunities across their portfolio [56][59] Question: What steps can be taken to close the valuation disconnect with peers? - Management highlighted the importance of execution and consistency in delivering on fundraising targets and FRE goals to regain investor trust [63][64] Question: What is the current sentiment from potential investors regarding fundraising? - Management reported that most investors have not changed their allocation strategies and continue to commit to digital infrastructure investments [75][76] Question: Is there a shift in investor interest towards credit strategies? - Management indicated an uptick in interest for credit strategies, with over 100 LPs currently evaluating their private credit offerings [105]