Antero Midstream (US:AM)2025-07-31 17:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the second quarter, the company generated $284 million of EBITDA, an 11% year-over-year increase driven by higher gathering and processing volumes, which set new company records [6] - Free cash flow after dividends reached $82 million, representing a nearly 90% increase compared to the previous year [7] - The company reduced its leverage to 2.8 times as of June 30 [7] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company invested $45 million in gathering, compression, water, and joint venture projects during the second quarter, bringing year-to-date capital investment to $82 million, which is 45% of the updated 2025 capital budget [4] - The compression reuse program has realized over $50 million in savings, with future savings estimates increased from $60 million to over $85 million [5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is uniquely positioned to connect low-cost production to LNG facilities along the Gulf Coast, while also maintaining optionality to connect to local markets [10] - The company expects project announcements in Appalachia to accelerate due to regulatory support, particularly in West Virginia [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to execute its organic growth plan, focusing on predictable earnings and capital efficiency, which allows for attractive dividends, debt reduction, and share repurchases [11] - The company is exploring opportunities to build infrastructure to meet growing demand in the Northeast, particularly in West Virginia [25] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management does not expect to be a material cash taxpayer through at least 2028, benefiting from recent tax legislation [9][32] - The company is actively looking for opportunities in the asset market, particularly bolt-on acquisitions around its current asset base [37] Other Important Information - The company has made significant progress on its capital projects and is focusing on low-pressure gathering and water connections to set up the 2026 development plan [4] Q&A Session Summary Question: Opportunities for AM in basin demand - Management indicated that AM could build infrastructure to meet growing demand, leveraging its large footprint in West Virginia and Ohio [14] Question: Capital allocation strategy - Management stated that the 50% allocation to buybacks is a long-term target, with flexibility based on market conditions [16][18] Question: In-basin demand opportunities related to recent announcements - Management noted that West Virginia's microgrid bill could create significant opportunities for AM, particularly in data center supply [24] Question: Clearwater facility lawsuit update - Management stated there is no new information regarding the lawsuit, which is pending a decision from the Colorado Supreme Court [27] Question: Processing capacity and potential new plant - Management indicated that there is still room to run processing plants above nameplate capacity, with no immediate need for additional processing capacity [30] Question: Long-term cash tax expectations - Management reiterated that they do not expect to be a full cash taxpayer for at least five years, benefiting from recent tax legislation [32] Question: Inorganic opportunities in the asset market - Management confirmed they are continuously looking for bolt-on acquisition opportunities but have no immediate plans to announce [37]