StealthGas(US:GASS)2025-05-28 15:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company generated $42 million in revenues during Q1 2025, a slight increase from $41.6 million in Q1 2024 but a decrease from $43.5 million in Q4 2024, indicating resilience in commercial operations [4] - Adjusted net income for Q1 2025 was $16.1 million, similar to Q4 2024 but lower than Q1 2024, primarily due to increased expenses [4][20] - Earnings per share on an adjusted basis were 44¢ for the quarter [4] - The company reduced debt by $54 million in 2025, bringing current debt levels close to $30 million, while maintaining a free cash balance of more than double that figure [5][23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company maintained a period coverage of 70% of fleet days for 2025 and secured over $165 million in future revenues [6][10] - Operating expenses increased by 17% to $13.5 million, mainly due to higher crew costs and maintenance fees [18] - The company concluded three period charters during the quarter, with two extensions, leaving five vessels operating in the spot market [8][9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. accounted for 63% of imports in Northern Europe in Q1 2025, up from 55% in the previous quarter [11] - The LPG market saw a steady upward trend, with global LPG exports increasing by 4.4% in 2024 and the U.S. marking an 8% year-on-year growth in Q1 2025 [25][26] - China and India increased their LPG imports by 8% and 10% year-on-year, respectively, despite geopolitical tensions affecting trade [29][30] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on deleveraging and has successfully reduced its debt, aiming to accumulate cash faster [5][23] - The strategy includes diversifying and renewing the fleet, with plans to sell older vessels and replace them with newer ones [6][7] - The company has begun a share repurchase program, spending approximately $1.8 million on share buybacks since the last call [5][41] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in sustaining momentum throughout 2025, despite a period of uncertainty in the market [40][41] - The company noted that almost every major LPG importer has increased imports, while major exporters have significantly increased exports [40][41] - The firm believes that the market will continue to pay premium rates West of Suez due to a shortage of suitable vessels [12] Other Important Information - The company has no vessels held for sale as of March 31, and the debt situation has improved significantly, with a focus on reducing debt levels [21][22] - The company is familiar with the vessels acquired through joint ventures and expects to take delivery of them soon [16] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the outlook for the LPG market? - The LPG market is expected to continue its upward trend, with the U.S. maintaining strong export growth and traditional exporters in the Middle East looking to strengthen their exports [25][28] Question: How is the company managing its debt? - The company has successfully reduced its debt significantly and is now net debt-free, allowing for faster cash flow accumulation [23][41] Question: What are the company's plans for fleet renewal? - The company plans to sell older vessels and replace them with newer ones, focusing on maintaining a modern and efficient fleet [6][7]