Overseas Shipholding (OSG) - 2023 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fourth quarter adjusted EBITDA was $47.3 million, a slight decrease from $48.1 million in the previous quarter, while full year adjusted EBITDA reached $175.7 million, representing a 23% increase from 2022 [30][31][98] - The company reported net income of $62.5 million for 2023, compared to $26.6 million in 2022, driven by higher rates, increased contract duration, and improved utilization [98] - Total cash at the end of the quarter was $76 million, with total debt at $404 million, reflecting a decrease of $6 million since September [32][77] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenues from Jones Act Handysize tankers increased by $2.2 million from the prior quarter, while ATB revenues rose by $900,000; however, specialized business revenues decreased by $1.6 million due to scheduled drydock periods [76][97] - The company maintained a high level of contract coverage, with over 95% of available vessel trading days for 2024 already booked [33][74] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Gulf Coast is producing a significant portion of renewable diesel, with California being the largest customer, leading to increased ton mile demand for Jones Act tankers [6][92] - Recent fixtures for conventional Jones Act tankers have been in the mid-$80,000 per day range, while larger ATBs are approaching $60,000 per day [33] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on investing in U.S. Flag tanker and ATB assets, anticipating long-term cash flow returns [7] - OSG is pursuing opportunities in the emerging market for transporting captured carbon dioxide, having received a $400,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Energy for a feasibility study on a carbon hub [71][94] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the business plan, citing strong fundamentals supporting charterer interest and cash flow from operations meeting expectations [4] - The geopolitical tensions and changes in trade patterns have created new market dynamics, with increased demand for domestic products favoring Jones Act vessels [25][69] Other Important Information - The company has authorized $45 million for share repurchases in 2023, purchasing a total of 8.6 million shares during the year [8] - The company expects to generate surplus cash of approximately $50 million in 2024 after accounting for various expenses [79] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on the use cases for the Frontier - Management sees potential for the Frontier to work in traditional Alaskan trades or satisfy additional demand in Gulf Coast trade [14] Question: Status of the $25 million share buyback - The remaining $25 million for share buybacks is accessible, though the company is cautious about its use [36][104] Question: Potential opportunities in the CO2 space - The project is expected to have a five-year forward revenue generating opportunity, with feasibility studies ongoing [85][86] Question: Commentary on recent contract renewals and rate increases - New contracts for Jones Act vessels are assessed in the mid-$80,000 range, with significant increases noted for specific vessels [87][107]