Essex Property Trust (ESS) Q1 2025 Earnings Call April 30, 2025 12:00 PM ET Company Participants Angela Kleiman - President & CEOBarb Pak - EVP, CFONicholas Yulico - Managing DirectorEric Wolfe - DirectorAlexander Goldfarb - Managing DirectorJana Galan - DirectorRylan Burns - Executive VP & Chief Investment OfficerJamie Feldman - Managing Director, Head of REIT ResearchBrad Heffern - DirectorJohn Kim - Managing Director - US Real EstateHaendel St. Juste - Managing DirectorRichard Anderson - Managing Directo ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a healthy first quarter with core FFO per share exceeding the midpoint of guidance by $0.05, driven by a consolidated portfolio performance ahead of plan with same property revenues growing 3.4% year-over-year [11][12] - Blended net effective rent growth was 2.8% for the first quarter, with new lease rates improving sequentially from the fourth quarter [4][11] - Delinquency improved to 1.3% of scheduled rent in Los Angeles, down from 3.9% in the same period last year [4][11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - New lease rates turned positive in all three major regions, led by Northern California at 1.5%, Seattle at 1.3%, and Southern California at 0.2% [5] - The turnover rate was notably low at 35%, contributing to stable occupancy levels [4] - In April, renewal rates landed in the low fours, consistent with plans, while new lease rates remained steady [36][37] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total new housing supply delivery as a percentage of stock in 2025 is exceptionally low at only 50 basis points in Essex markets, expected to moderate throughout the year [7] - Deal volume in the markets was higher in the first quarter compared to the same period last year, totaling $2.5 billion with cap rates in the mid to high 4% range [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on reallocating capital into higher rent growth markets and optimizing its operating platform to generate above-market returns [3][4] - The company remains cautious about revising guidance due to macroeconomic uncertainties, particularly regarding U.S. and global trade policies [6][12] - The company is actively pursuing opportunities to enhance shareholder accretion while maintaining a disciplined investment strategy [10][13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the West Coast multifamily fundamentals, stating they are well-positioned for a wide range of economic outcomes due to low supply [7][93] - The company noted that while the tech sector's job growth has been steady, it is closely monitoring potential impacts from macroeconomic changes [21][92] - Management highlighted that the labor market remains soft in Los Angeles, affecting pricing power, and emphasized the need for delinquency recovery to improve occupancy and pricing [60][61] Other Important Information - The company has refinanced the majority of its 2025 debt maturities and maintains over $1 billion in available liquidity [15] - The preferred equity portfolio saw around $27 million in redemptions, with expectations for further redemptions in the upcoming quarters [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Guidance and Rate Growth - The company confirmed that the original guidance included a slight increase in blended rate growth in the second half of the year, and they remain confident in achieving this [17][19] Question: Impact of Tech Sector - Management indicated that job openings in the top 20 tech companies have remained steady, suggesting continued hiring in the sector [20][22] Question: Occupancy Strategy - The company is maintaining its occupancy strategy while pushing rents in Northern California, with a focus on occupancy in Southern California due to supply dynamics [25][27] Question: Renewal Rates - Renewal rates in April were steady, landing in the high threes, consistent with the company's plans [37] Question: Market Conditions in LA - Management noted that pricing power in LA depends on delinquency recovery and that the labor market remains soft, impacting overall performance [60][61] Question: Development and Investment Strategy - The company is actively looking for new investment opportunities but remains disciplined in its approach, focusing on long-term performance [64][111] Question: Concessions and Loss to Lease - Concessions have improved significantly from the fourth quarter to the first quarter, and loss to lease metrics have also shown improvement [113]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported first quarter earnings of $0.34 per share, which includes $0.06 from Whole Foods related to rents and recoveries, as well as termination payments [44][46] - Same store NOI growth was reported at 4.1%, with the Street retail portion growing 6.8% for the quarter, outperforming suburban assets by over 400 basis points [52][53] - The company achieved a core operating signed not yet open pipeline increase of over 15%, with new leases signed at cash spreads exceeding 50% [41][48] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Street retail segment continued to show strong performance, with double-digit sales growth observed in key markets such as SoHo and M Street [21][24] - The company signed new core leases totaling over $5 million in ABR, with 95% of that income coming from street locations [20] - The leasing velocity and signed not yet open pipeline are both accelerating, with a robust pipeline of over $6 million in additional leases in advanced stages of negotiation [21][48] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consumer spending has remained resilient, particularly among affluent consumers, with sales growth reported at 15% year-over-year in the Georgetown portfolio [12][24] - The company noted that the affluent consumer demographic is less affected by broader economic indicators, maintaining spending habits despite economic uncertainties [12][22] - The company is seeing increased traction in markets that have been slower to recover, such as San Francisco, with significant leasing activity reported [28][30] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to be a dominant owner-operator of street retail in key corridors, focusing on acquisitions that are accretive to earnings and enhance the portfolio [14][39] - The strategy includes opportunistically adding assets through its investment management platform, leveraging institutional capital relationships [14][39] - The company is well-positioned to navigate market volatility and capitalize on potential buying opportunities in street retail investments [16][39] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the continued internal growth driven by strong tenant demand and limited new supply in high-quality locations [5][13] - The company is monitoring inflationary pressures and economic slowdowns but believes that strong demand will mitigate long-term declines [10][12] - Management remains optimistic about achieving 5% to 6% full-year same store NOI growth, supported by a solid balance sheet and liquidity [53][54] Other Important Information - The company completed over $370 million in acquisitions year-to-date, including targeted street retail acquisitions and value-add opportunities [32][34] - The balance sheet remains strong, with a debt to EBITDA ratio of 5.7 times, allowing for continued investment in growth opportunities [54] - The company has a robust pipeline of pending deals and active negotiations, indicating strong future growth potential [49][50] Q&A Session Summary Question: Will the signed not yet open (SNO) continue to accelerate and exceed 6% of ABR by year-end 2025? - Management indicated that they expect continued growth in the SNO pipeline, with $3 million expected to roll into the second half of the year [58] Question: Can you discuss opportunistic investing during downturns and the types of sellers? - Management noted that sellers could include institutional investors seeking liquidity or different operating partners, but it is too early to predict specific outcomes [60][62] Question: How has the Street portfolio changed post-COVID in terms of tenant types? - Management highlighted a shift towards healthier retailers, including digitally native brands, replacing legacy retailers, contributing to sustained demand and growth [66] Question: How confident is the company in achieving 10% underlying growth in the Street portfolio? - Management expressed confidence, noting that the majority of the signed not yet open pipeline is from the Street segment, which is expected to drive growth [70] Question: What is the current state of the street retail transaction market? - Management observed a potential reduction in competition as some buyers may pull back, but they remain prepared to capitalize on opportunities [78] Question: How are leasing spreads trending through the balance of the year? - Management indicated that while spreads may vary, they believe their leases are well-positioned relative to the market [81]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For the first quarter of 2025, the company reported core FFO of $0.19 per diluted share, with same store property cash NOI up 0.4% excluding nonrecurring revenue items from the previous year [26][27] - Expenses increased approximately 5% year over year, driven by real estate taxes, payroll costs, and repair and maintenance costs, partially offset by higher tenant reimbursement income and growth in rental revenue [27][28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Manhattan office portfolio is 93% leased, with a slight decrease from 94.2% in the previous quarter, and the company expects leasing and occupancy gains for the full year [12][19] - The Observatory generated NOI of approximately $15 million, with a 7% year-over-year change attributed to the shift of the Easter holiday to the second quarter and adverse weather conditions [28] - The multifamily portfolio achieved 99% occupancy and 8% year-over-year rent growth in the first quarter [15][16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The leasing environment in New York City remains active, particularly for modernized buildings with good amenities, as evidenced by the company leasing approximately 230,000 square feet in the first quarter [6][12] - The company has seen a healthy pipeline of leasing activity, with 160,000 square feet of leases in negotiation and several proposals exchanged with tenant prospects across various industries [13][14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company focuses on five priorities: leasing space, selling tickets to the Observatory, managing the balance sheet, identifying growth opportunities, and achieving sustainability goals [11][24] - The company aims to maintain a strong balance sheet with no floating rate debt exposure and a well-laddered debt maturity schedule, positioning itself to weather economic uncertainties [23][24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges potential macroeconomic risks but emphasizes the company's strong position due to long-term leases, high lease percentages, and diverse income streams [5][6] - The company remains optimistic about its leasing and occupancy gains, with expectations for core FFO guidance of $0.86 to $0.89 for 2025 [28][29] Other Important Information - The company repaid $100 million in Series A unsecured notes and $120 million in revolving credit facility balance during the quarter, and it has been actively repurchasing shares [24] - The company is prepared to act on investment opportunities across retail, multifamily, and office sectors, focusing on New York City [25] Q&A Session Summary Question: How are leasing conversations unfolding with different tenant categories amid current economic conditions? - Management reported no changes in lease negotiations over the last sixty days, with strong activity across various industries [32][33] Question: What is the expected trend for CapEx in the coming years? - Management indicated a reduction in CapEx is expected as the portfolio stabilizes, with a good run rate established in the first quarter [35][39] Question: How is leasing activity in Williamsburg progressing? - Management noted strong activity in Williamsburg, with recognizable brand names showing interest in available spaces [41][43] Question: How does the company prioritize capital allocation opportunities? - The company balances capital allocation between maintaining operating runway, potential buybacks, and investment opportunities as they arise [44][46] Question: What is the company's perspective on tourism and potential impacts from geopolitical tensions? - Management has not detected significant shifts in demand and remains focused on operational discipline and marketing strategies to mitigate any potential downturns [56][58]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue from operations for Q1 2025 was $736 million, a slight increase of $6 million or 1% from the previous quarter [40] - Total adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $206.3 million, down from $220.5 million in the fourth quarter, reflecting a decline of $14 million [45][46] - U.S. drilling revenue decreased by $11 million or 4.5% sequentially to $231 million [41] - Average daily rig margins in the Lower 48 came in just under $14,300, down $660 or 4% from the fourth quarter [47] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The international drilling segment generated revenue of $382 million, an increase of $10.3 million or 3% from the prior quarter, driven by activity increases in key markets [44] - Drilling Solutions revenue increased by $17.2 million or 22.6% to $93.2 million, benefiting from the addition of Parker operations [44][52] - Rig Technologies segment revenue declined by $12 million sequentially to $44.2 million, primarily due to lower capital equipment deliveries in the Middle East [45] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Lower 48 market average quarterly rig count remained stable, with Nabors exiting Q1 with 62 rigs operating [41][39] - The international rig count increased slightly from 84.8 to 85 rigs during the quarter, aided by Parker's contribution [44] - The survey of 14 operators indicated a projected 4% reduction in rig count from the end of Q1 through the end of 2025 [29] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on achieving $40 million in cost synergies from the Parker acquisition during 2025 [6][31] - There is a strategic emphasis on international markets, particularly in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, where new rigs are expected to contribute positively to earnings [19][50] - The company aims to reduce debt and improve free cash flow, with a target of generating free cash in 2025 despite cash consumption [28][54] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the macro environment is challenging due to OPEC+ output adjustments and high U.S. shale production, but there are signs of recovery in natural gas activity [7][8] - The company expects a slight increase in rig count in Q2, driven by deployments in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait [39] - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate through short-term disruptions while positioning for future growth [59] Other Important Information - The company suspended operations in Russia due to U.S. sanctions and does not expect to resume activities there [11][38] - The company has made significant progress in capturing planned synergies from the Parker acquisition, with a focus on corporate cost reductions [57][80] Q&A Session Summary Question: Has the company started accruing any debt in the SANAD joint venture? - Management confirmed that there is no current plan to accrue debt in the SANAD joint venture [64] Question: Is Saudi Aramco finished with rig releases, or are more expected this quarter? - Management provided details on rig suspensions and additions, indicating a wait-and-see approach regarding future releases [65][66] Question: Which business segment is most affected by tariffs? - Management indicated that the impact of tariffs is more significant on spare parts and pumps rather than drill pipe, with mitigation strategies in place [72] Question: How does the company view the potential for an IPO of SANAD? - Management acknowledged that an IPO is a potential path for value realization, especially given the attractive valuations in the Middle East [77] Question: What is the expected corporate run rate for the second quarter with Parker's full contribution? - Management indicated that Parker's contribution should be in the mid-40s for the second quarter, with ongoing synergy capture [90]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Enel Chile reported a net income of $175 million for Q1 2025, reflecting an 11% increase compared to the previous year [22] - The company's EBITDA for the quarter reached $365 million, showing a positive variation driven by improved energy distribution receivables [24] - The gross debt increased by 2% to $4 billion, with an average cost of debt remaining competitive at 4.9% [25][26] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net electricity generation totaled 5.6 terawatt hours, an 8% decrease compared to 2024, primarily due to lower hydro and renewable generation [11] - Energy sales amounted to 7.7 terawatt hours, marking a 9% reduction from the previous year, attributed to lower sales to regulated customers [12] - The company achieved a total net installed capacity of 8.9 gigawatts, with 28% from renewable energy sources and battery energy storage systems [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The regulatory framework is undergoing significant updates, with expectations for changes in electricity subsidies and ancillary services [13][14] - The VAD 2020-2024 decree was published in April 2025, enabling recovery of outstanding balances from the tariff cycle [16][17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Enel Chile is focused on strengthening grid infrastructure through a resilience program in response to increasing climate risks [8] - The company aims to modernize the regulatory framework to enhance asset rate resilience and promote innovation and efficiency [27] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving strategic objectives despite a challenging environment, emphasizing the importance of a diversified business model [27] - The company remains committed to advocating for comprehensive distribution reform and modernization of the regulatory framework [27] Other Important Information - The final dividend for the 2024 fiscal year was approved at approximately 4.24 Chilean pesos per share [10] - The company is in a comfortable liquidity position with $640 million in committed lines and $460 million in cash equivalents [26] Q&A Session Summary Question: Additional details on the resilience program for distribution - Management confirmed that the resilience program includes investments in grid quality and digitalization, with increased CapEx compared to the previous year [34][35] Question: CapEx guidance for 2025 - The company maintains the $800 million CapEx guidance for 2025, with most investments expected in the second half of the year [40][41] Question: Impact of new regulatory changes - Management indicated it is too early to assess the financial impact of new regulatory changes, but they expect some benefits from improved rules for ancillary services [45][46] Question: Hydrology expectations for 2025 - The target of 10.7 terawatt hours for hydrology in 2025 remains valid, with further clarity expected by mid-year [56][57] Question: Economic impact of the resilient program - The CapEx for the resilience program is included in the last industrial plan, but estimating its impact on EBITDA is challenging at this stage [66] Question: Gas supply contracts with Argentina - Enel Chile's current gas contracts with Argentina include take-or-pay clauses, ensuring no issues are expected for the remainder of the year [71] Question: Expired regulated contracts - The expired regulated contracts were related to a tender process from 2013, which had prices indexed to commodities [79]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q1 2025, net income was $161 million, down from $172 million in Q4 2024 [11] - Adjusted EBITDA for Q1 2025 was $292 million, compared to $298 million in Q4 2024, primarily due to lower volumes and revenues [11] - Total revenues, excluding pass-through revenues, decreased by approximately $13 million, driven by lower throughput volumes [11] - Adjusted free cash flow for Q1 2025 was approximately $191 million [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Gas processing throughput averaged 424 million cubic feet per day, crude terminaling averaged 125,000 barrels per day, and water gathering averaged 126,000 barrels per day [5] - Processing revenues decreased by approximately $7 million, and gathering revenues decreased by approximately $6 million due to lower throughput volumes [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Hess reported first quarter net production for the Bakken averaged 195,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day, with expectations for Q2 production to be in the range of 210,000 to 215,000 barrels, reflecting a 9% increase at the midpoint compared to Q1 [5] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on disciplined, low-risk investments to meet basin demand while maintaining reliable operations and strong financial performance [7] - Capital expenditures for 2025 are expected to total approximately $300 million, unchanged from previous guidance [12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about a strong recovery in volumes following challenging weather conditions in January and February [42] - The company anticipates adjusted EBITDA in the second half of 2025 to be approximately 11% higher than in the first half [13] Other Important Information - The company has returned $1.95 billion to shareholders since the beginning of 2021 through share repurchases and has increased distributions per Class A share by approximately 57% since 2021 [9] - The company expects to generate over $1.25 billion of financial flexibility through 2027 for incremental shareholder returns [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: Bakken outlook in light of ongoing macroeconomic volatility - Management noted that activity levels remain stable, with no changes in Hess's plans to run four rigs for the rest of the year, supported by established MVCs through 2027 [19][20] Question: Volumes in excess of MVCs and performance against MVCs - Management indicated that MVCs are set at approximately 80% of nomination, with third parties expected to represent about 10% of total volume [24] Question: Risk of rig reduction in the current macro environment - Management reaffirmed that they are looking past short-term volatility and expect consistent activity levels in the Bakken [30][31] Question: Buybacks and secondaries - Management clarified that there is no specific plan for secondaries and expects to continue multiple repurchases per year, with flexibility for $1.25 billion through 2027 [36][37] Question: Gas processing volumes recovery - Management reported a strong recovery in volumes and expressed optimism about meeting guidance for the year [42][43] Question: Impact of oil prices on rig count - Management stated that they are prepared for price volatility and expect to maintain the four-rig program, with improved well economics reducing breakeven costs [45][48] Question: Gas growth in the basin and egress - Management anticipates gas volumes to continue increasing over time, supported by existing export agreements [55][66]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved sales of $5.3 billion for Q3 FY2025, which is down 6% year-over-year and sequentially, but near the high end of guidance [4][14] - Adjusted EPS was $0.84, exceeding guidance, and cash flow from operations was $141 million for the quarter [4][20] - Gross margin for the quarter was 11.1%, down 78 basis points year-over-year but up 54 basis points sequentially [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Electronic Components sales declined 6% year-over-year and 7% sequentially, while Farnell sales decreased 10% year-over-year but increased 6% sequentially [14][15] - Farnell's operating margin improved to 3%, up approximately 200 basis points quarter-over-quarter, reflecting better sales and gross margin [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales in Asia increased 13% year-over-year, marking the third consecutive quarter of growth, while EMEA sales declined 24% and The Americas declined 9% year-over-year [14][15] - The industrial end market in EMEA saw slight growth, while other verticals experienced declines [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on optimizing inventory composition and reducing core inventory levels where necessary [6] - The management emphasized the importance of leveraging existing customer and supplier relationships to drive growth, encapsulated in the "Power of One" strategy [11][19] - The company is actively adjusting processes to mitigate the impact of tariffs on customers and financials [12][26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the current environment is one of the most challenging seen in over 40 years, with complex supply chains and geopolitical uncertainties [13] - The company expects to generate positive operating cash flows in the next quarter and remains committed to balancing debt paydown with shareholder returns [22][26] Other Important Information - The company reported a gross leverage of 3.2 times and had approximately $1.2 billion of available committed borrowing capacity [22] - Book value per share increased to approximately $56, primarily due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: Understanding revenue guidance for June - Management explained that the guidance reflects a cautious approach, particularly due to weak performance in Europe, with expected growth primarily from Asia [28][30] Question: Inventory expectations - Management indicated that while they aim to reduce inventory, it is strategically important and not uniformly high across all SKUs [48][52] Question: Tariff impacts on order patterns - Management noted minimal changes in order patterns due to tariffs, with only modest pull-ins observed [59][62] Question: Visibility into AI-driven components - The company has some visibility into AI-related components, particularly in Asia, but it represents a small portion of overall business [74][76]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q1, consolidated revenue was $381 million, with a revenue shortfall of approximately $55 million due to lower than expected shipments [30][31] - Adjusted net income attributable to common stockholders was negative $24.8 million, or negative $0.58 per diluted share [31] - Adjusted EBITDA was negative $9 million, or negative 2.4% of sales [30] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Transportation Solutions generated revenue of $347 million with an operating loss of negative $10 million, indicating a decline in demand for equipment [31] - Parts and Services generated revenue of $52 million and operating income of $6.9 million, showing year-over-year revenue growth despite market conditions [31][32] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The total backlog at the end of Q1 was approximately $1.2 billion, showing a slight sequential increase [17] - The trailer industry has experienced eight consecutive quarters of contraction in orders, leading to aging fleets across the industry [18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on growing parts and services revenue to reduce exposure to cyclicality, with a strategic initiative to integrate these offerings across its equipment solutions portfolio [20][28] - The company is expanding its Trailers as a Service initiative, which includes maintenance, repair, and telematics, to provide a comprehensive solution for customers [23][24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted a broader macro-driven slowdown affecting customer decision-making and capital expenditure plans, leading to a cautious outlook for 2025 [4][5] - The updated guidance for 2025 revenue is approximately $1.8 billion, reflecting a reduction of about $200 million from previous estimates [33][34] Other Important Information - The company is navigating ongoing legal matters related to a 2019 motor vehicle accident, with a jury initially awarding $462 million in damages, later amended to $119.5 million [16] - The company has a liquidity position of $310 million as of March 31, with a net debt leverage ratio of 3.2 times [32] Q&A Session Summary Question: Concerns about decremental margins and EPS loss - Management clarified that pricing pressure around commodities is accounted for in the full-year guidance, and they do not expect an oversized reduction in profitability [41][42] Question: Outlook for parts and services - Management expressed optimism about maintaining growth in parts and services despite weakness in original equipment sales, expecting sequential growth into Q2, Q3, and Q4 [45][46] Question: Total TOS units and growth potential - Management reported over 1,000 trailers deployed in the Trailers as a Service initiative, with expectations for continued growth throughout the year [55][56] Question: Liquidity and capital allocation - Management discussed their liquidity strategy, emphasizing flexibility in capital allocation based on market conditions, including traditional CapEx and share repurchases [63][64] Question: Impact of weather on Q1 performance - Management acknowledged that weather affected manufacturing and cost alignment, but they expect improved conditions in Q2 [66][67]

Ionis Pharmaceuticals (IONS) Q1 2025 Earnings Call April 30, 2025 11:30 AM ET Company Participants Wade Walke - SVP - Investor RelationsBrett Monia - Chief Executive OfficerKyle Jenne - Executive VP & Chief Global Product Strategy OfficerElizabeth L. Hougen - Executive VP of Finance & CFOGary Nachman - Managing Director - Equity ResearchDebjit Chattopadhyay - Managing DirectorJonathan Birchall - Senior VP & Chief Commercial OfficerChi Fong - VP - Equity ResearchCassie Yuan - Equity Research Associate - Biot ...