Hess Midstream LP(US:HESM)2026-02-02 16:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For the full year 2025, the company reported net income of approximately $685 million and Adjusted EBITDA of $1,238 million, representing a growth of approximately 9% from 2024 [10] - In the fourth quarter, net income was $168 million compared to approximately $176 million in the third quarter, and Adjusted EBITDA was $309 million compared with approximately $321 million in the third quarter [10][11] - The gross Adjusted EBITDA margin for the fourth quarter was maintained at approximately 83%, above the target of 75% [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fourth quarter gas processing volumes averaged 444 million cubic feet per day, crude terminaling volumes averaged 122,000 barrels of oil per day, and water gathering volumes averaged 124,000 barrels of water per day [5] - For the full year 2025, gas processing volumes averaged 445 million cubic feet per day, crude terminaling volumes averaged 129,000 barrels of oil per day, and water gathering volumes averaged 131,000 barrels of water per day [6] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company expects lower volumes across its systems in the first quarter of 2026 due to severe winter weather, with a recovery anticipated as weather improves [7][41] - Approximately 95% of revenues are protected by minimum volume commitments (MVCs) for the full year 2026, providing a safety net against volume fluctuations [8][14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to reduce capital spending significantly, expecting to spend approximately $150 million in 2026, a 40% reduction from 2025, and further decrease to less than $75 million per year in 2027 and 2028 [4][15] - The strategy includes a targeted 5% distribution growth per Class A share through 2028, supported by significant free cash flow generation [5][29] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted that the severe winter weather has impacted operations but expects a recovery in production as conditions improve [41] - The company reiterated its guidance for net income and Adjusted EBITDA growth through 2028, driven by gas volume growth and lower capital expenditures [8][29] Other Important Information - The company had a drawn balance of $338 million on its revolving credit facility at year-end [12] - Adjusted free cash flow for the first quarter of 2026 is expected to increase relative to the fourth quarter of 2025 due to lower capital expenditures [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Balance sheet and debt repayment strategy - Management indicated that a portion of free cash flow will be used for debt repayment, with a conservative financial strategy in line with volume profiles [17][19] Question: Third-party outlook and Chevron's production target - Management expects no change in third-party volumes, maintaining an average of 10% across oil and gas, and confirmed Chevron's target of 200,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day remains intact [21][23] Question: Growth drivers and cost-cutting impact - Future growth is driven by inflation escalators and reduced capital expenditures, with significant free cash flow generation expected [26][28] Question: Weather impact on production - Management noted that while severe weather has affected operations, a recovery is anticipated as conditions improve, with MVCs providing revenue protection [40][41] Question: Long-term leverage target - Management stated there is no specific leverage target, but expects natural deleveraging as EBITDA grows and debt levels remain stable [43][45]