ONEOK(OKE) - 2025 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The second quarter adjusted EBITDA increased by 12% compared to the first quarter, reaching $1,980,000,000, or $2,000,000,000 when excluding transaction costs of $21,000,000 [4][7] - Net income attributable to ONEOK totaled $841,000,000, or $1.34 per share, representing a more than 30% increase compared to the first quarter [7] - The company ended the second quarter with $97,000,000 in cash and no borrowings under its $3,500,000,000 credit facility, having reduced senior notes by nearly $600,000,000 during the quarter [8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) raw feed throughput volumes increased by 18% compared to the first quarter, with Rocky Mountain Region volumes averaging nearly 470,000 barrels per day, a record for the region [12][13] - Refined product volumes increased sequentially as seasonal demand picked up, with diesel and aviation fuel volumes remaining strong [16] - Natural gas processing volumes increased by 9% in the Mid Continent region compared to the first quarter, reflecting resilience in producer activity [21] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is monitoring 2026 market dynamics closely while executing its growth strategy, with a focus on high return organic projects [5][9] - The Permian Basin continues to be a key area of strategic growth, with the company reaching 1,600,000,000 cubic feet per day in July [19] - The overall decrease in crude volumes compared to 2025 was primarily due to low margin exchange volumes, which have significantly lower rates than wellhead gathering or long haul shipments [18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company announced a final investment decision on a new natural gas processing plant in the Permian's Delaware Basin, expanding its presence in a key strategic area [5][6] - ONEOK remains focused on capital allocation discipline and is committed to investing in infrastructure that strengthens energy security and resilience [10][24] - The company expects to realize approximately $250,000,000 of synergies in 2025, with significant additional contributions expected in 2026 [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the resilience of the energy sector, supported by domestic and global demand for U.S. energy [4][5] - The outlook for 2026 adjusted EBITDA is expected to be adjusted downward by approximately 2% or $200,000,000 due to current commodity prices and resulting spread differentials [9] - Management highlighted the importance of safety, integrity, and responsibility in operations, with a commitment to sustainability [25] Other Important Information - The company expects to benefit from more than $1,300,000,000 in lower cash taxes over the next five years due to recent tax legislation [10] - The company is actively engaged in discussions with over 30 different parties regarding industrial demand related to data centers and AI [35] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide more color on the 2026 outlook and how much growth is hardwired by contractual volumes? - Management acknowledged the volatility in the market and noted that the 2026 outlook was adjusted down by around 2% due to spread differentials and producer activity [29][32] Question: Can you elaborate on the natural gas business and its performance? - Management indicated that the natural gas business is performing well, with ongoing integration of EnLink assets leading to significant opportunities [36][37] Question: What specific opportunities are driving synergy capture? - Management highlighted the connection of NGL assets to refining products assets as a key driver for increased volume and reduced costs [41][43] Question: Can you discuss the performance of BridgeTex and its outlook? - Management noted that increasing volumes on BridgeTex are expected as it connects to the East Houston facility, enhancing value through integrated operations [60][62] Question: How is the commercialization progress for the Texas City terminal? - Management reported strong interest in the Texas City terminal due to its premium location, with rates in line with estimated economics [50][52] Question: What is the current status of the Elk Creek pipeline expansion? - Management confirmed that the Elk Creek pipeline expansion is completed, with a capacity of over 400,000 barrels per day [78] Question: Can you provide an update on the new processing plant in the Permian? - Management stated that the new processing plant will include infrastructure for CO2 treatment and is expected to enhance overall economics [100][101]