Seadrill(US:SDRL)2025-05-12 14:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Seadrill reported total operating revenues of $335 million for Q1 2025, an increase of $46 million from the prior quarter [24] - Adjusted EBITDA was $73 million, up from $28 million in the previous quarter [26] - Economic utilization for the quarter was 84%, impacted by downtime in three rigs in Brazil [7][8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Contract drilling revenues increased by $44 million sequentially to $248 million due to additional operating days [24] - Total operating expenses decreased to $317 million from $323 million in the prior quarter [25] - Vessel and rig operating expenses rose by $15 million to $179 million due to additional operating days across the fleet [25] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global macro uncertainty and OPEC's decision to increase supply are affecting commodity prices and client investment confidence [8][9] - The U.S. Gulf is expected to see increased competition with up to five rigs rolling off contract before year-end, exerting downward pressure on rates in 2025 [16] - Demand in Africa is projected to decline by two to four rigs in 2025 before rebounding in 2027 and beyond [18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Seadrill focuses on high specification floaters and deepwater basins, believing that deepwater investments are compelling due to expansive reserves [11][29] - The company aims to prioritize margins and cash flow over utilization for long-term value creation [12][29] - Seadrill maintains a robust balance sheet with $430 million in cash and a backlog of $2.8 billion extending through 2028 and into 2029 [12][26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in future demand for deepwater drilling despite current market volatility [10][29] - Active dialogues with clients for opportunities in the second half of 2025 and 2026 are ongoing, with expectations for multiple contract awards [9][29] - The company is optimistic about the longevity of demand in Brazil, with Petrobras issuing a multiyear tender for rigs [19][20] Other Important Information - Seadrill is participating in voluntary mediation with Petrobras regarding delayed penalty notices [13] - The company has undertaken an initial review of the impact of tariffs, believing any impact is already reflected in current guidance [28] Q&A Session Summary Question: Shift in client interest towards performance-based contracts - Management noted that performance-based contracts are not new and they are open to larger performance-based contracts for the right clients [34][36] Question: Costs associated with stacking the Capella - Management indicated they are in a ramp-down mode and have not reached a long-term cold stacking rate yet [38] Question: Decision process for stacking versus keeping a rig warm - Management emphasized the importance of being decisive and disciplined about removing supply from the market when necessary [41] Question: Confidence in securing contracts for the second half of 2025 - Management expressed confidence in their contracting outlook, noting that they have not moved to cold stack certain rigs, indicating ongoing market opportunities [61] Question: Need to compete on price - Management stated that performance still matters significantly and they have historically been able to secure leading edge day rates [63][65]