ONEOK(OKE) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In 2025, net income attributable to ONEOK increased by 12% to $3.39 billion, resulting in earnings of $5.42 per share [4][7] - Adjusted EBITDA rose by 18% to $8.02 billion, marking 12 consecutive years of growth [4][6] - For the fourth quarter of 2025, net income was $977 million, or $1.55 per share, with adjusted EBITDA totaling $2.15 billion [7][8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved nearly $500 million in total synergies from acquisitions, with approximately $250 million realized in 2025 alone [4][5] - Approximately 90% of earnings are fee-based, which limits commodity exposure and supports valuation durability [5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the Bakken region, there are 5,000 identified wells yet to be drilled, equating to over 15 years of inventory at current rig rates [6] - The natural gas pipeline segment exceeded guidance in 2025, benefiting from strategic locations in the Permian Basin and Louisiana [21][22] Company Strategy and Development Direction - ONEOK aims to maintain a disciplined capital allocation strategy while integrating major acquisitions and advancing long-cycle growth projects [3][4] - The company expects to achieve an adjusted EBITDA midpoint of $8.1 billion for 2026, supported by volume growth and completed projects [5][8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to integrate acquisitions and capture expected synergies, despite lower crude oil prices potentially slowing drilling activity [5][6] - The company anticipates continued growth in 2026 and beyond, driven by customer development plans and strategic expansions [6][7] Other Important Information - ONEOK plans to reduce capital expenditures in the coming years as current projects are completed, with a 2026 guidance range of $2.7 billion to $3.2 billion [15][16] - The company does not expect to pay meaningful cash taxes until 2029, supporting free cash flow and capital allocation flexibility [16] Q&A Session Summary Question: 2026 outlook and conservative guidance - Management discussed the conservative assumptions around commodity prices and potential optimization opportunities that could provide upside to guidance [33][34] Question: Power opportunity and customer engagement - Management indicated advanced negotiations with hyperscalers and positive momentum in securing deals, with announcements expected soon [38][39] Question: NGL throughput volumes and guidance - Management explained that flat NGL throughput guidance is influenced by contract expirations and ethane recovery assumptions [72][73] Question: Natural gas storage opportunities - Management highlighted ongoing expansions in Texas and Louisiana, driven by industrial customers and LNG projects [87][88] Question: CapEx guidance and project breakdown - Management provided insights into major projects for 2026, including the Denver pipeline expansion and Shadowfax plant [94][96]