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SBA(SBAC) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a solid start to 2025, with results broadly in line with estimates and a healthy level of growth in activity levels [5][6] - The full-year outlook for services has been increased due to strong first-quarter performance and growing backlog [8][14] - First-quarter domestic organic leasing revenue growth was 5.2% on a gross basis and 1% on a net basis, with churn at 4.2% [14][15] - International organic leasing revenue growth for the first quarter was 1.6% net, including 5.6% of churn [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. leasing business saw significant growth, with a notable increase in new lease co-locations compared to amendments to existing leases [6][7] - The U.S.-based services business exceeded expectations, with a growing backlog for services during the quarter [7][8] - The company completed its exit from the Philippines and finalized the sale of its Colombian operations, allowing for improved focus and resource allocation [9][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Elevated CPI rates in some international markets may lead to better existing lease escalations during the year [8][11] - The company has not experienced direct impacts from current tariff policies, maintaining steady cash flow and robust customer needs [11][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on operational execution, driving efficiencies through new technologies, and enhancing relationships with major customers [12] - The wireless ecosystem is expected to evolve, providing new opportunities for growth, with the company well-positioned to capture these initiatives [9][12] - A new $1,500,000,000 share repurchase plan has been approved, reflecting the company's commitment to returning value to shareholders [11][20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's stability and future, citing strong cash flow generation and robust customer needs [11][12] - The company anticipates continued growth in leasing activity, particularly in the U.S., driven by network investment from mobile operators [5][6] - Management acknowledged potential challenges in the macroeconomic environment but noted no immediate impacts on sales or leasing discussions [78][79] Other Important Information - The company repurchased 583,000 shares at an average price of $210.87, funded entirely with excess cash [11][20] - A quarterly dividend of $1.11 per share was declared, representing a 13% increase over the previous year [20] Q&A Session All Questions and Answers Question: Update on carrier plans in the U.S. and capital allocation environment - Management noted a positive carrier environment with increased leasing activity and a flexible capital allocation strategy, balancing buybacks, asset investments, and debt repayments [25][28] Question: Expected run rate for U.S. leasing and bilateral contracting relationships - Management expects to end the year at a higher level than the first quarter's $9,000,000 in new leases and amendments, with ongoing discussions about holistic master lease agreements [33][36] Question: Drivers of higher network services business and churn dynamics - The increase in services is attributed to one customer operating at a faster pace than expected, while churn remains within the previously provided range [43][45] Question: Update on M&A opportunities in Canada - Management is open to evaluating M&A opportunities in Canada, focusing on value and competitive pricing [46][47] Question: Insights on DISH and cable companies' plans - Limited direct conversations with cable companies were reported, while DISH is focused on its standalone network with slow leasing activity [52][58] Question: International growth visibility and churn dynamics - Management expects elevated churn in Brazil due to consolidation impacts but anticipates a pickup in activity as carriers invest in their networks [70][72] Question: Increase in new leasing activity and CPI rates impact - The increase in leasing activity is driven by heightened subscriber activity and regulatory requirements, with potential CPI impacts quantified at $1,000,000 to $2,000,000 [112][114]