Antero Midstream (US:AM)2026-02-12 18:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4 2025, adjusted EBITDA was $285 million, a 4% year-over-year increase driven by higher gathering and compression volumes [5] - Free cash flow after dividends for Q4 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 [4][7] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The capital budget for 2026 is set between $190 million and $220 million, 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 - The company emphasizes a just-in-time capital investment strategy that generates consistent free cash flow [3] - The integration of the acquired water system and investment in dry gas assets are expected to provide high visibility into growth [4] - The strategy includes a balanced return of capital program through debt reduction and share repurchases [8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management anticipates continued growth beyond 2027, with mid- to high single-digit EBITDA growth expected [12] - The company is well-positioned to meet growing demand over the next 5-10 years due to its strategic location and infrastructure [16] Other Important Information - The company achieved a 20% return on invested capital (ROIC) in 2025 [5] - The acquisition is fully financed, allowing for value accretion to existing shareholders without equity financing [8] Q&A Session Summary Question: Long-term growth outlook post-acquisition - Management indicated that the 3-rig, 2-rig program will support continued growth beyond 2027, with expected throughput volume growth of about 200 million a day [12] Question: Growth plans for Antero Resources (AR) and implications for Antero Midstream (AM) - Management noted that there is minimal additional capital required for AM due to existing infrastructure, and AR is well-positioned to meet growing demand with firm transport options [14][16]