Blackbaud(BLKB) - 2025 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q2 2025, Blackbaud generated revenue of $281 million, representing a 6.8% organic growth year over year [6][22] - Adjusted EBITDA margin improved to 38.5%, up nearly 300 basis points year over year [6][22] - Non-GAAP diluted earnings per share (EPS) increased to $1.21, up 12% year over year [6][22] - Adjusted free cash flow was $53 million, up from $36 million last year, representing an adjusted free cash flow margin of 18.9% compared to 12.7% in Q2 2024 [22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company highlighted strong performance in transaction solutions, contributing to revenue overperformance [22] - New customer acquisitions included significant deals with organizations like a large youth development organization and Sunnybrook Foundation, showcasing growth in the nonprofit and higher education sectors [7][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Blackbaud's YourCause solution saw strong customer additions, including large brands like NASDAQ and Tyson Foods, indicating growth in corporate engagement [11] - The company is experiencing a growing momentum in the higher education vertical, as evidenced by partnerships with institutions like California Polytechnic State University [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on acquiring new logos, driving innovation, and strengthening customer relationships through additional solutions and renewals [7] - Blackbaud is investing aggressively in innovation, particularly in AI, with initiatives like the AI Everywhere strategy and the upcoming AgenTeq offerings [16][17] - The company aims for mid-single-digit organic revenue growth, EBITDA growth exceeding revenue growth, and double-digit diluted EPS growth [19][27] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's long-term success, citing consistent growth and profitability [21] - The company raised its guidance for the remainder of 2025, projecting revenue between $1.12 billion and $1.13 billion, reflecting strong first-half performance [26] - Management noted that while transactional revenue can be volatile, they do not expect the same level of overperformance in the second half of the year [40] Other Important Information - The company is analyzing the tax implications of recent legislation, which is expected to reduce cash taxes in the near term [24][88] - Blackbaud's leverage decreased to 2.7 times in Q2, down from 2.9 times in the previous quarter, indicating improved financial health [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: How is AI coming up in customer conversations and budget considerations? - Management indicated that AI is a significant topic in customer discussions, with ongoing investments in AI capabilities and new product developments expected to drive revenue [31][34] Question: How should investors think about transactional revenue relative to long-term growth rates? - Management acknowledged strong transactional performance in the first half but cautioned that such overperformance may not recur in the second half, emphasizing the importance of monitoring [40] Question: What are the priorities for the new Head of North America, Bill Ford? - Management expressed optimism about Bill Ford's experience and insights, expecting him to enhance the company's ability to compete and drive new customer acquisitions [48] Question: What is the thought process behind the stock buyback strategy? - Management clarified that while stock repurchases are a priority, they are also focused on debt repayment, with a balanced approach to capital allocation [51] Question: How are contract renewals structured and what is the expected impact? - Management noted that renewals are typically higher in Q2 and Q4, with a smooth process expected as the company approaches the end of its three-year contract cycle [58] Question: What are the implications of the recent tax law changes? - Management highlighted that the repeal of Section 174 related to R&D expenditures is expected to have a favorable impact on cash taxes, although specific sizing is still under analysis [88]