NCS Multistage(NCSM)2025-05-01 13:32Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The first quarter revenue was $50 million, exceeding the high end of the guided range by $4 million, marking the highest quarterly revenue since Q1 2020 [4][12] - Adjusted gross margin was 44%, up from 40% year-over-year, reflecting strong operating leverage [5][12] - Adjusted EBITDA was $8.2 million, an increase from $6.1 million in Q1 2024 [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Canadian revenue reached $38 million, a 19% increase compared to Q1 2024, driven by the fracturing systems product line [6][12] - International revenue increased by 34%, primarily from activities in the Middle East and North Sea [12] - U.S. revenue declined by 6%, indicating challenges in that market [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The average rig count in Canada increased by 3%, but NCS's revenue growth outpaced this, indicating strong market performance [6] - International revenue accounted for 10% of total revenue in 2024, with expectations for continued growth in the North Sea and Middle East [7][8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to build on its leading market positions, capitalize on international opportunities, and commercialize innovative solutions [6][9] - NCS is focusing on technology development and expanding its addressable market through new product introductions [10][21] - The company is evaluating M&A opportunities while maintaining a strong balance sheet for strategic investments [40][41] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed caution regarding the second half of 2025 due to geopolitical uncertainties and potential impacts from tariffs [17][19] - The company maintains a revenue guidance of $165 million to $175 million for 2025, reflecting a 5% year-over-year growth at the midpoint [18] - There is an expectation for free cash flow of $7 million to $11 million, which will strengthen the balance sheet [18][21] Other Important Information - Selling, general, and administrative costs increased by $2.4 million due to higher incentive bonuses and stock-based compensation [13] - The company had a cash balance of $23 million and total liquidity of approximately $50 million at the end of Q1 [14][21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Are there any capacity constraints on the horizon? - Management indicated no significant breakpoints in capacity, with sufficient supply chain capacity to support growth [26][28] Question: What is the current sales pipeline like? - The company noted ongoing scenario planning among customers, with expectations for decisions impacting market activity in the near term [30][32] Question: How do you see product sales in the U.S. playing out for the remainder of 2025? - Management highlighted deferred opportunities in frac systems and successful customer trials converting into regular activity [34][35] Question: Will the company pursue M&A opportunities given the strong balance sheet? - Management confirmed active evaluation of M&A opportunities while also considering internal investment options [40][41] Question: How is the pricing environment affected by tariffs and commodity prices? - Management acknowledged challenges in passing through costs due to low commodity prices but emphasized the differentiation of their products [54][58]