Antero Midstream (US:AM)2026-02-12 18:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted EBITDA for Q4 2025 was $285 million, a 4% increase year-over-year, driven by higher gathering and compression volumes [5] - Free cash flow after dividends for Q4 2025 was $85 million, contributing to a leverage reduction to 2.7x and approximately $48 million in share repurchases [5] - For the full year 2025, free cash flow after dividends reached a record $325 million, a 30% increase compared to 2024 [5] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The acquisition of HG Midstream for $1.1 billion adds over 400 undeveloped locations, enhancing Antero Midstream's competitive position in the Marcellus Shale [3] - The company expects 8% year-over-year EBITDA growth and 11% year-over-year free cash flow growth in 2026, following the integration of the acquired assets [4][7] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company anticipates a capital budget of $190 million to $220 million for 2026, focusing on well connections, water capital, and compression asset integration [6] - The forecast for 2026 includes Adjusted EBITDA of over $1.2 billion, reflecting an 8% increase year-over-year [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Antero Midstream's strategy emphasizes capital-efficient organic growth and the integration of acquired assets to enhance free cash flow and operational efficiency [3][8] - The company aims to maintain a strong balance sheet with leverage in the low 3x range while executing a balanced return of capital program [8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in continued EBITDA growth and capital efficiency, projecting high single-digit growth beyond 2027 due to the 3-rig, 2-completion crew program [12] - The management highlighted the strategic positioning of Antero Resources (AR) to meet growing demand over the next 5-10 years, supported by Antero Midstream's infrastructure [15] Other Important Information - The company reported a 20% return on invested capital (ROIC) for 2025, indicating strong capital efficiency [5] - The integration of the Intervale Water System is expected to provide high visibility into growth opportunities [4] Q&A Session Summary Question: Long-term growth outlook post-acquisition - Management indicated that the 3 rig, 2 crew program will support continued growth beyond 2027, with expected mid- to high single-digit EBITDA growth [12] Question: Growth plans for Antero Resources and implications for Antero Midstream - Management clarified that there is minimal additional capital required for Antero Midstream due to existing infrastructure, positioning AR well for future demand [14]