Star Bulk(US:SBLK)2026-02-26 17:02Financial Performance - For Q4 2025, the company reported a net income of $65.2 million and an adjusted net income of $74.5 million, translating to an adjusted EPS of $0.16 [4] - Adjusted EBITDA was $126.4 million, indicating strong cash generation capacity [4] - The company repurchased 1.2 million shares for $22.7 million during Q4, with a total of approximately 1.9 million shares repurchased year-to-date for $37.9 million [4][5] - A dividend of $0.37 per share was declared for Q4, payable on March 19, 2026 [5] Capital Allocation and Financial Position - Total cash and cash equivalents stood at approximately $459 million, with outstanding debt around $1 billion [5] - The company has an undrawn revolving credit capacity of $110 million and 27 debt-free vessels valued at approximately $630 million [5] - The company plans to distribute 100% of its free cash flow while maintaining a minimum cash balance of $2.1 million per vessel and a minimum quarterly dividend of $0.05 per share [6][7] Operational Performance - Daily operating expenses for Q4 were $5,045 per vessel, with net cash G&A at $1,399 per vessel, both among the lowest in the peer group [14] - The fleet consists of 141 vessels with an average age of approximately 12.1 years, and the company continues to optimize its fleet through selective disposals [16][17] Market and Industry Outlook - The dry bulk trade grew by 1.3% in volume and 2.1% in ton-miles during 2025, driven by strong exports from Brazil and a recovery in iron ore and coal volumes [25] - For 2026, dry bulk demand is projected to grow by 0.6% in tons and 1.9% in ton-miles, supported by a favorable supply backdrop and easing trade tensions [27] - The company anticipates that stricter environmental regulations will continue to support slow steaming and help constrain effective supply [24] Management Commentary - Management expressed confidence in the company's cash flow visibility and commitment to maintaining a competitive capital return profile [8] - The company remains focused on managing its ECO-rated fleet to capitalize on market opportunities and deliver shareholder value [32] Q&A Session Summary Question: Inquiry about underlying demand and ton-mile expansion in the iron ore market - Management noted that besides bauxite and iron ore, strong trade in grains is expected to increase ton-miles due to exports from Brazil [36] Question: Follow-up on congestion in West Africa and infrastructure projects - Management acknowledged short-term congestion increases but expects gradual alleviation as infrastructure improves over the coming years [39] Question: Details on capital return policy and dividend payout - Management indicated that stronger share performance incentivizes dividend payments over share repurchases [43]