Civitas Resources(CIVI) - 2025 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported nearly $750 million in adjusted EBITDA and over $120 million in adjusted free cash flow for the quarter, with oil volumes growing 6% quarter over quarter [14][15] - Cash operating expenses on a unit basis were more than 10% lower, and capital investments were on the low end of the plan due to lower well costs and improved cycle times [14][15] - The company anticipates a significant increase in volumes and lower capital and operating costs, expecting a meaningful ramp in both EBITDA and free cash flow in the second half of the year [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company optimized investment levels focusing on higher free cash flow and returns, with approximately 60% of oil hedged for the remainder of the year, which is about twice the normal levels [10][11] - The divestment of $435 million in non-core DJ Basin assets is expected to close around the end of the third quarter, with production from these assets estimated at around 10,000 barrels equivalent per day for next year [12][13] - The company plans to allocate 50% of free cash flow after the base dividend to share buybacks annually, amounting to about $375 million in repurchases for the current year [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has around $2 billion in financial liquidity and anticipates no borrowings outstanding on its credit facility by the end of the year [11] - The recent Tax Act is expected to provide over $200 million in savings over the next five years, ensuring minimal cash taxes for the foreseeable future [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company has four clear priorities for 2025: maximizing free cash flow, strengthening the balance sheet, returning cash to shareholders, and leading in ESG initiatives [7][8] - The company aims to achieve a net debt target of $4.5 billion by the end of the year, with a focus on operational execution and cost leadership [7][25] - The company is committed to a strong base dividend while also implementing an aggressive capital returns plan, including a buyback authorization that is over 25% of its market cap [8][13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving debt reduction targets and emphasized the importance of a strong and sustainable capital return to shareholders [25] - The company is focused on optimizing its resource base and driving costs out of the system, with a commitment to continuous improvement in operational execution [25] - Management acknowledged the macro volatility but remains optimistic about the company's ability to navigate challenges and enhance shareholder value [7][25] Other Important Information - The company has appointed Wouter van Kempen as Interim CEO following the departure of Chris Doyle, with a focus on enhancing execution and performance [5][6] - The company has exceeded its full-year target for non-core asset sales, achieving a 4x multiple on 2026 cash flow for the divested assets [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Strategy shift and comfort with balance sheet - Management highlighted that recent steps, including incremental hedges and divestments, have positioned the company advantageously for capital returns [30][31] Question: 2026 plans post-strategy shift - The company plans to hold production flat at a lower level of CapEx following asset sales, with ongoing optimization efforts [33][34] Question: Initial impressions of Civitas operations - Management noted strong asset quality and operational performance, with ongoing efforts to improve efficiencies and reduce costs [39][40] Question: CEO search attributes and timeline - The company is looking for a CEO who can set strategy, allocate capital effectively, and build a strong culture, with a timeline of around six months for the search [46][48] Question: Dividend levels and stock buybacks - Management reaffirmed commitment to the base dividend while also implementing an accelerated repurchase program, which will save on future dividends [64][65] Question: Cost reduction opportunities in the DJ Basin - Management indicated ongoing efforts to lower costs and improve performance, with significant progress already made [68][69] Question: Inventory assessment across basins - The company has a total of 2,000 locations, with better returns currently seen in the Permian Basin, but ongoing improvements are expected across all areas [74][75]