Weatherford International(WFRD) - 2025 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The second quarter results were in line with expectations despite significant market headwinds, with adjusted EBITDA margins at 21.1%, slightly declining from Q1 [7][11] - Adjusted free cash flow was $79 million, with a free cash flow conversion rate of 31.1%, up from 26.1% in Q1 [21][24] - The company has paid four quarterly dividends of $0.25 per share and repurchased approximately $186 million worth of shares over the past four quarters [11][24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America and Latin America revenues were down sequentially, with North America affected by seasonal spring breakup in Canada and Latin America impacted by Argentina divestitures [9][10] - The ESSR region saw growth due to project startups in Europe, while the Middle East and North Africa region showed noteworthy performance despite a softening market in Saudi Arabia [10][12] - The company expects a decline in revenues for 2025, with North America projected to decline by high single digits and international revenues expected to decline low double to mid double digits [19][28] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The overall international market has softened, with increased caution and a slowdown in customer spending due to stable commodity prices and trade discussions causing uncertainty [14][15] - The rig count in Saudi Arabia has declined, affecting the market dynamics, but the company believes it remains underpenetrated in several businesses [36][37] - The U.S. Land market has been challenging, with pricing pressure noted, particularly in the service-related segments [82] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on defending margins and maximizing cash generation while adapting to evolving market conditions [29][31] - A multiyear cost optimization program is in place to achieve sustainable productivity gains through technology and lean processes [31] - The company is exploring M&A opportunities, particularly in well construction and production segments, with a focus on value creation through cash flow accretion [73][75] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management anticipates market headwinds will persist for at least another twelve months, with a potential recovery not expected until the second half of 2026 [16][39] - The company has reduced headcount by over 1,500 and lowered annualized personnel expenses by more than $125 million since 2024 [17][18] - Despite challenges, management remains optimistic about the company's future, emphasizing a strong balance sheet and commitment to shareholder returns [30][31] Other Important Information - The company has approximately $1 billion in cash and restricted cash, with total liquidity at $1.3 billion, the highest level since emergence [25][92] - Capital expenditures were $54 million in Q2, down from $77 million in Q1, with expectations for further declines [24][28] - The company is committed to maintaining net working capital efficiency levels at 25% or better [21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on Saudi Arabia's market transition - Management acknowledged the softness in the Saudi market but highlighted the company's underpenetration in several businesses and strong execution [36][37] Question: Clarification on Q4 guidance - Management indicated that the Q4 guidance includes expected seasonal sales and project startups, despite uncertainties due to tariffs [44][46] Question: U.S. Land market challenges - Management noted a steady decline in U.S. Land, with a focus on production products and the impact of tariffs on future performance [51][55] Question: Stability in Mexico's market - Management expressed cautious optimism about stability in Mexico, with expectations for a ramp in activity levels in the second half of the year [60][66] Question: M&A opportunities and balance sheet strategy - Management confirmed a robust pipeline for M&A opportunities, focusing on strategic fits that create value, while maintaining a strong balance sheet [73][75] Question: Pricing pressure in various regions - Management identified North America as experiencing significant pricing pressure, particularly in service businesses, while remaining focused on maintaining margins [82]