Ultra(UGP) - 2025 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total EBITDA reached BRL2.7 billion, showing significant growth compared to the previous year, partially driven by the recognition of extraordinary tax credits [14] - Recurring EBITDA for the quarter totaled BRL1.648 billion, representing a 15% increase compared to the second quarter of last year [15] - Net income was BRL1.151 billion in the quarter, an increase of 134% compared to the same period last year [15] - Operating cash generation was BRL1.848 billion, a growth of 73% compared to the same period last year [16] - Net debt at the end of the second quarter was BRL12.635 billion, equivalent to 1.9x net debt to EBITDA, an increase from 1.7 times in the last quarter [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Ipiranga's volume sold in the second quarter was 2% lower compared to the same quarter last year, with a 3% reduction in diesel sales [18] - Ultragaz's recurring adjusted EBITDA was BRL442 million, 11% higher than the same period last year, reflecting better sales mix and efficiency [21] - Ultracargo's EBITDA totaled BRL141 million, which is 15% lower than the same period last year, mainly due to lower cubic meters sold [22] - Hydrovias showed a 10% increase in total volume compared to the same quarter last year, with a recurring adjusted EBITDA increase of 39% [23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The fuel sector continues to experience illegalities, including increased imports of naphtha for selling as gasoline with reduced tax burden [5] - The implementation of single-phase taxation for hydrated ethanol began in May, which is expected to have a positive long-term impact on the market [5] - The LPG market in Brazil is highly competitive, with significant investments needed for efficiency and growth [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains committed to long-term value creation and disciplined capital management [4] - Investments in Hydrovias are expected to enhance growth and value creation, with a focus on operational efficiency [4] - The company is actively addressing regulatory changes in the LPG market to ensure safety and competitiveness [8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the potential positive effects of recent regulatory changes, although they acknowledged the initial negative impact on margins [31] - The company anticipates stronger volumes in the third quarter, supported by a trend towards normalization of inventories in the industry [19] - Management highlighted the importance of maintaining a robust capital structure while pursuing growth opportunities [6] Other Important Information - The company completed a buyback program of 25 million shares at an average cost of BRL16.64 [6] - An interim dividend of BRL326 million, equivalent to $0.30 per share, is scheduled for payment in August [6] Q&A Session All Questions and Answers Question: Impact on margins due to informal practices in the industry - Management noted some improvement in margins due to regulatory changes, but it is too early to fully assess the impact [28][34] Question: Competition from Petrobras in the LPG market - Management believes Petrobras could support regulatory consolidation but does not expect immediate changes in the market [35] Question: Discussion on draft discount and IOF tax - Management clarified that the draft discount is related to the IOF tax and that they are managing working capital effectively [30][37] Question: Expectations for cost reduction and EBITDA impact from Hydrovias consolidation - Management expects improvements in management and operations to positively impact EBITDA in the second half of the year [51] Question: Long-term perspective on Ultracargo's expansion projects - Management confirmed ongoing investments in expansion projects, with expectations of reaching EBITDA per cubic meter similar to other terminals by 2026 [58] Question: Capital allocation strategy and return rates for new investments - Management indicated that investments will be selective, focusing on opportunities with a return of about 20% [54][59]