BlackRock(BLK) - 2025 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - BlackRock reported second quarter revenue of $5.4 billion, a 13% increase year over year, driven by organic growth and higher average AUM [10] - Operating income rose 12% to $2.1 billion, while earnings per share increased 16% to $12.5 [10] - The company achieved 6% organic base fee growth in the second quarter, marking the fourth consecutive quarter of 5% or higher growth [8][27] - Total AUM reached a record $12.5 trillion, with net inflows of $68 billion in the second quarter [8][19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Base fee and securities lending revenue increased 15% year over year to $4.5 billion, supported by market beta and organic growth [11] - Technology services revenue and subscription revenue grew 26% year over year, reflecting strong demand for Aladdin technology offerings [13] - Performance fees decreased to $94 million, attributed to lower performance revenue from private markets and liquid alternatives [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - ETF net inflows totaled $85 billion, with fixed income ETFs leading at $44 billion [19] - Institutional index net outflows were $48 billion, primarily due to a single client redemption [20] - Cash AUM increased by 25% year over year, with net inflows of $22 billion in the second quarter [20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - BlackRock aims for 30% revenue contribution from private markets and technology by 2030, with recent acquisitions supporting this goal [9] - The company is focusing on integrating GIP, HPS, and Prequin to enhance its capabilities in private markets and technology [26][95] - BlackRock is expanding its presence in international markets, particularly in India and the Middle East, to capture growth opportunities [29][96] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the growth potential from private markets and the integration of recent acquisitions, highlighting strong client feedback [50][54] - The company anticipates significant opportunities in public-private financing and infrastructure investments due to rising government deficits [51] - Management noted that the integration of analytics and data capabilities will be crucial for future growth, particularly in retirement solutions [66][70] Other Important Information - BlackRock repurchased $375 million worth of common shares in the second quarter and plans to continue share repurchases [18] - The company announced the acquisition of Elmtree Funds, a real estate investment firm, expected to close in Q3 2025 [19] - BlackRock's capital management strategy focuses on investing in business growth and returning excess cash to shareholders [16] Q&A Session Summary Question: Progress on integrating HPS and GIP - Management reported strong client feedback and significant opportunities with insurance clients and wealth management across regions, highlighting successful fundraising efforts [50][54] Question: Migration of private investments into target date funds - Management discussed plans to launch a proprietary target date fund with private allocations, expected in 2026, emphasizing the importance of glide path technology [67][68] Question: Profitability and adjusted operating margin outlook - Management indicated a target of 45% or greater adjusted operating margin, with expectations for continued organic growth and expense alignment [74][77] Question: Recent flow trends in private markets - Management provided insights into ongoing fundraising efforts across various private market strategies, with a target of $400 billion in gross fundraising by 2030 [86][88] Question: Future M&A opportunities - Management stated a focus on integrating recent acquisitions while remaining open to selective, tactical M&A opportunities that complement existing capabilities [92][94]