Precision Drilling(US:PDS)2025-10-23 18:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted EBITDA for Q3 2025 was $118 million, down from CAD 142 million in the prior year [5][6] - Daily operating margins in Canada were $13,007, compared to $12,877 in Q3 2024, while in the U.S., margins were steady at $8,700, down from $9,226 in Q2 2025 [6][12] - The company reduced its debt by CAD 101 million, achieving its annual debt reduction target [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Canada, drilling activity averaged 63 active rigs, a decrease of nine rigs from Q3 2024 due to deferred customer projects [5][6] - U.S. drilling activity averaged 36 rigs, an increase of three rigs from the previous quarter, reflecting strength in gas-weighted basins [6][7] - Internationally, drilling activity averaged seven rigs, down from eight rigs in the prior year, with day rates averaging $53,811, a 14% increase from the previous year [8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. natural gas market has seen an increase in rig count from 27 in Q1 to 40 rigs currently, driven by strong field performance [7][8] - The company expects Q4 rig counts in Canada to be similar to Q4 2024, averaging 65 rigs, while U.S. rig counts are expected to remain in the upper 30s [12][13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company increased its 2025 capital budget by $20 million to fund five additional contracted rig upgrades, indicating a long-term view of energy demand [3][4] - Precision Drilling aims to leverage its scale, utilize technology for rig performance, and maintain a strong customer focus as key pillars of its strategy [22][28] - The company is committed to long-term debt reduction and increasing direct returns to shareholders, with plans to allocate 35-45% of free cash flow to share buybacks [11][18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the future, citing a strong balance sheet and a commitment to capital returns while navigating commodity market challenges [18][30] - The outlook for the remainder of the year remains positive but is dependent on commodity prices, with expectations for winter drilling activity to meet or slightly exceed last year's levels [12][13] Other Important Information - The company has completed a leadership transition, appointing Carrie Ford as CEO, Gene Stahl as COO, and Dustin Honing as CFO [2][16] - Precision Drilling has a strong presence in Canada’s heavy oil and unconventional natural gas markets, which positions it well for future growth [8][9] Q&A Session Summary Question: Visibility on contract extensions for 2026 - Management noted that longer-term contracts are being seen in the Montney and Marcellus regions, with some short-term contracts in oil basins due to volatility [35][36] Question: Future rig upgrades and CapEx - Management indicated that while they hope to see more rig upgrades, the focus will remain on maintaining commitments to debt paydown and shareholder returns [40][42] Question: Changes in strategy under new leadership - The new CEO emphasized continuity in strategy, focusing on supporting field operations and enhancing customer performance [47][49] Question: Performance-based contracts and M&A approach - Management confirmed no significant changes in M&A strategy, with a focus on organic growth through improved asset utilization and performance-based contracts [55][56] Question: Demand for rig upgrades next year - Management expressed optimism about demand for upgrades, particularly in heavy oil and unconventional plays, with ongoing discussions with customers [67][70]