Select Water Solutions(WTTR)2025-05-07 16:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q1 2025, the company increased revenue by 7%, adjusted EBITDA by 14%, and improved consolidated gross margins by one percentage point [7][19] - Net income grew by $12 million, while consolidated SG&A expenses decreased by 6% [7][19] - The company achieved strong revenue growth of 21% in Chemical Technologies and 8% in Water Services [7] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Water Infrastructure maintained a strong gross margin of 54%, despite a sequential revenue decline driven by reduced revenues from legacy freshwater pipeline assets [7][16] - Water Services saw an 8% sequential revenue increase, primarily due to improved activity levels [17] - Chemical Technology experienced a strong sequential revenue growth of 21%, exceeding expectations [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Northern Delaware Basin now represents 54% of the company's total fixed recycling capacity, reflecting significant growth in contracted acreage [11] - The company has developed a leading water infrastructure network in the Northern Delaware Basin, with over 1 million acres under dedication or right of first refusal agreements [8][11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on expanding its water infrastructure and has secured several large contracts that enhance its long-term revenue potential [8][10] - The strategic location of new projects and partnerships with industry-leading E&P partners are expected to contribute significantly to future earnings [8][10] - The company is also pursuing growth opportunities in agricultural, industrial, and municipal water sectors [11][24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's resilience despite macroeconomic pressures and potential activity dislocations due to tariffs and trade uncertainties [9][14] - The company anticipates continued growth in consolidated adjusted EBITDA of 6% to 12% during Q2 2025, despite potential declines in activity levels later in the year [13][19] - Management highlighted the importance of maintaining a disciplined approach to leverage and capital allocation to support growth initiatives [15][21] Other Important Information - The company successfully implemented a new ERP system across all operations, which is expected to yield efficiencies over time [23] - The company has adjusted its free cash flow expectations for the year to a conversion rate of 5% to 15% relative to adjusted EBITDA [21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Activity pullback in growth areas - Management confirmed that there has not been a pullback in activity in the Permian Basin, indicating confidence in their asset positioning [26][27] Question: Upcoming catalysts for AV Farms project - Management is engaging stakeholders and has letters of intent with potential customers, indicating strong demand and optimism for future revenue generation [28][30] Question: Role of CNA companies in AB Farms project - Management stated that Select will eventually take over operational roles while collaborating with CNA for commercialization [39][41] Question: Impact of tariffs on water infrastructure contracts - Management indicated that tariffs are not expected to materially impact water infrastructure projects due to domestic supply chains [43] Question: Supply chain resilience in Chemical Technologies - Management highlighted efforts to localize the supply chain, reducing reliance on international sourcing, particularly from China [44][45] Question: Future growth in water infrastructure - Management expects to maintain a growth trajectory of around 15% into 2026, supported by new projects and existing contracts [52][53] Question: M&A opportunities in the current environment - Management noted that the current environment presents opportunities for strategic asset purchases, particularly in a down cycle [75][78]