Star Bulk Carriers (SBLK) closed the latest trading day at $14.80, indicating a +0.41% change from the previous session's end. The stock trailed the S&P 500, which registered a daily gain of 0.63%. At the same time, the Dow added 0.21%, and the tech-heavy Nasdaq gained 1.52%.Shares of the shipping company have depreciated by 5.81% over the course of the past month, underperforming the Transportation sector's loss of 5.27% and the S&P 500's loss of 0.7%.Investors will be eagerly watching for the performance ...

Company Performance - Star Bulk Carriers (SBLK) closed at $14.51, reflecting a +0.42% change from the previous trading day, underperforming the S&P 500's gain of 0.74% [1] - The stock has decreased by 9.18% over the past month, compared to a loss of 7.86% in the Transportation sector and a 4.77% loss in the S&P 500 [1] Earnings Expectations - The upcoming earnings disclosure is expected to show an EPS of -$0.28, representing a 132.18% decline year-over-year [2] - Quarterly revenue is anticipated to be $203.25 million, down 21.64% from the same period last year [2] Full-Year Estimates - Full-year Zacks Consensus Estimates project earnings of $1.28 per share and revenue of $1.09 billion, indicating year-over-year declines of -51.33% and -14.14%, respectively [3] Analyst Projections - Recent shifts in analyst projections for Star Bulk Carriers should be monitored, as they reflect short-term business trends and can influence stock performance [4] - Upward revisions in estimates indicate analysts' positive outlook on the company's operations and profit generation capabilities [4] Zacks Rank and Valuation - The Zacks Rank system currently rates Star Bulk Carriers at 4 (Sell), with a 16.63% decrease in the consensus EPS estimate over the last 30 days [6] - The company has a Forward P/E ratio of 11.29, which is higher than the industry average of 9.6 [7] Industry Context - The Transportation - Shipping industry holds a Zacks Industry Rank of 224, placing it in the bottom 10% of over 250 industries [7] - The Zacks Industry Rank assesses the strength of industry groups based on the average Zacks Rank of individual stocks [8]

ATHENS, Greece, March 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Star Bulk Carriers Corp. (the "Company" or "Star Bulk") (NASDAQ:SBLK), today announced that the Company's annual report on Form 20‐F (the "Annual Report"), which contains the Company's audited financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 19, 2025. The Annual Report can be found on the Commission's website at http://www.sec.gov and on the Company's website at http://www.starb ...

Revenue and Fleet Growth - Voyage revenues increased to $1,265.5 million in 2024 from $949.3 million in 2023, a growth of approximately 33.3%[356] - The average number of vessels in the fleet rose to 144.3 in 2024 from 123.3 in 2023, resulting in an increase in available days to 50,649 from 43,357[356] Operating Expenses - Vessel operating expenses increased to $275.0 million in 2024 from $221.3 million in 2023, reflecting higher costs associated with the increased fleet size[359] - Dry docking expenses rose to $62.7 million in 2024 from $42.0 million in 2023, attributed to more vessels undergoing dry docking[360] - Depreciation expense increased to $164.1 million in 2024 from $138.4 million in 2023, driven by the larger fleet size[361] - General and administrative expenses increased to $70.8 million in 2024 from $54.4 million in 2023, largely due to the expanded fleet[363] Cash Flow and Financial Performance - Net cash provided by operating activities was $471.2 million in 2024, up from $335.8 million in 2023, primarily due to higher charter rates and increased fleet size[380] - The company reported a net gain of $43.3 million from vessel sales in 2024, compared to a gain of $29.4 million in 2023[365] - Net cash provided by investing activities increased to $356.2 million in 2024 from $235.5 million in 2023, driven by higher vessel sale proceeds of $303.2 million compared to $251.0 million in 2023 and $104.3 million received from the Eagle Merger[382] - Net cash used in financing activities rose to $648.2 million in 2024 from $595.9 million in 2023, primarily due to increased net debt outflows of $342.0 million in 2024 compared to $51.2 million in 2023 and higher dividends paid of $277.0 million versus $158.1 million in 2023[383] Debt Facilities and Refinancing - The ABN $67.9 million Facility was refinanced, extending the repayment date to June 2027 and secured by seven vessels, with a prepayment of $6.3 million made in April 2024[386] - The CEXIM $106.5 million Facility, drawn in November 2019, is repayable in 40 equal quarterly installments of $0.7 million, secured by three vessels[388] - The DNB $107.5 million Facility, drawn in September 2021, is repayable in 20 equal quarterly principal payments of $2.2 million, with a balloon payment of $19.7 million due in September 2026[391] - The ABN AMRO $97.1 million Facility was fully drawn and secured by four vessels, with the second tranche maturing in October 2024[392] - The Credit Agricole $62.0 million Facility is repayable in 20 quarterly installments, with a balloon payment of $8.8 million due in November 2026, secured by five vessels[394] - As of December 31, 2024, the ING Facility is secured by a total of 18 vessels following various prepayments made throughout 2023 and 2024[397] - The company made significant prepayments in 2024, including $58.5 million related to the vessel Star Pavlina and $9.1 million for the vessel Star Bovarius[396] - The company assumed $375.5 million of bank loans as part of the Eagle Merger, which were refinanced using various facilities totaling $388.1 million[420] Vessel Valuation and Impairment Risks - The company has 6 out of 151 operating vessels with a market value below their carrying value, with an aggregate difference of $4.0 million[443] - The company has identified several dry bulk carrier vessels whose market value is lower than their carrying value as of December 31, 2023, indicating potential impairment risks[457] - The risk factors include potential declines in market values of vessels due to shipping industry conditions, which could affect borrowing capacity and lead to impairment charges[458] Management and Governance - The company appointed Mr. Gary Weston to the Board of Directors following the Eagle Merger on April 9, 2024, indicating ongoing strategic changes[461] - The company has a diverse Board of Directors with extensive experience in shipping and finance, which supports its strategic decision-making[462] - The Chief Executive Officer, Petros Pappas, has been with the company since its inception and has significant experience in vessel acquisitions and disposals[464] - The company has a strong focus on developing and executing vessel acquisitions and dispositions, with over 200 transactions managed by the Chief Operating Officer, Nicos Rescos[470] Employee and Director Compensation - Total compensation for senior management in 2024 was $2.5 million, with non-employee directors receiving an annual cash retainer of $15,000 each[483] - The aggregate compensation of the Board of Directors for 2024 was approximately $0.2 million[483] - The company does not have a retirement plan for its officers or directors[483] - The company awarded 435,450 common shares to key employees as of December 31, 2024, with a closing stock price of $14.95[492] Shareholder Agreements and Ownership - The company repurchased a total of 20 million common shares, reducing Oaktree's ownership from approximately 25.3% to 7.3%[523] - As of July 2, 2024, Oaktree shareholders beneficially own approximately 4.6% of the company's common shares, leading to the termination of the Oaktree Shareholders Agreement[524] - The Pappas shareholders beneficially own approximately 3.6% of the total issued and outstanding common shares as of February 17, 2025[525] - The Pappas Shareholders Agreement restricts the Pappas shareholders from engaging in certain transactions until terminated[530] Compliance and Financial Covenants - As of December 31, 2024, the company was in compliance with all financial covenants in its debt agreements[427] - The company is involved in ongoing discussions regarding financial covenants in credit facilities, which may be influenced by market conditions and vessel valuations[458]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q4 2024, the company reported a net income of $42 million, with an adjusted net income of $41 million or $0.35 adjusted earnings per share [5][6] - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $104 million [6] - The excess cash flow for the quarter amounted to $17.6 million, leading to a declared dividend of $0.09 per share [7][8] - Pro forma total cash as of the call was $452 million, while total debt stood at $1.3 billion [8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The time charter equivalent (TCE) rate was $16,129 per vessel per day, with combined daily operating expenses and net cash G&A expenses per vessel at $6,320 [10] - The integration of Eagle Bulk has resulted in approximately $22 million in synergies, with a run rate of $50 million in annualized synergies achieved ahead of schedule [10][17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The global dry bulk trade expanded by 3.3% in tons and 5% in ton miles during 2024, supported by high coal, iron ore, and minor bulk exports [34] - China's total dry bulk imports increased by 19.5% over the last two years, driven by post-COVID recovery [35] - The average steaming speed of the fleet decreased to 10.8 knots, influenced by reduced earnings and stricter environmental regulations [32] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company has amended its dividend policy to allocate up to 60% of excess cash flow towards dividends, with the remainder for share buybacks and growth initiatives [6][7] - The fleet renewal strategy includes selling older vessels and investing in energy-efficient upgrades, with a focus on maintaining a competitive edge in the market [20][21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism about the medium-term outlook for the dry bulk market, citing favorable supply conditions and recent stimulus measures from the Chinese government [44] - The company is focused on managing its fleet to capitalize on emerging market opportunities amid geopolitical uncertainties [44] Other Important Information - The company received the Deal of the Year Award at the Lloyd's List Greek Shipping Awards for the merger with Eagle Bulk [29] - The fleet consists of 155 vessels with an average age of 11.8 years, positioning the company among the largest dry bulk fleets in the U.S. and Europe [24] Q&A Session Summary Question: Future savings from Eagle Bulk merger - Management indicated there is still room for improvement in operating expenses, particularly in crew wages, and that significant efficiencies are yet to be realized [49][50] Question: Impact of potential trade war on grain trade - Management estimated that Brazilian soybeans could have a ton-mile advantage of about 10% to 15% over U.S. soybeans, potentially leading to increased congestion at South American ports [54] Question: Fleet renewal program and market appetite - Management noted that prices for older vessels have fallen, but they expect the market to improve in the coming months, allowing for continued divestment of less efficient vessels [56] Question: Clarification on capital allocation and excess cash definition - Management confirmed that excess cash is calculated as operating cash flow minus debt payments and scheduled dry docks, with flexibility in using cash for dividends or share buybacks [60][61] Question: Long-term chartering contracts - Management confirmed that the seven long-term charter contracts are at fixed rates for an initial seven-year duration, with about 50% of the $26 million in chartering expenses attributable to these vessels [71][75]

FINANCIAL RESULTS Q4 2024 February 2025 Forward-Looking Statements This presentation contains certain forward-looking statements. These statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements may include statements concerning the Company's plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements, which are other than statements of historical facts, identified by words such a ...

Star Bulk Carriers (SBLK) came out with quarterly earnings of $0.34 per share, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.42 per share. This compares to earnings of $0.73 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items.This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of -19.05%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this shipping company would post earnings of $0.71 per share when it actually produced earnings of $0.71, delivering no surprise.Over the last four quarters, the comp ...

Financial Performance - Star Bulk Carriers reported a net income of $42.4 million for Q4 2024, compared to $39.7 million in Q4 2023, representing a 1.7% increase[24]. - Voyage revenues increased to $308.9 million in Q4 2024 from $263.5 million in Q4 2023, a growth of 17.3%[26]. - Adjusted EBITDA for Q4 2024 was $103.8 million, down from $114.0 million in Q4 2023, reflecting a decrease of 9.6%[25]. - Net income for Q4 2024 was $42,446, an increase of 6.0% compared to $39,707 in Q4 2023[55]. - Adjusted Net Income for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, was $285,589, up 56.7% from $182,247 in 2023[55]. - Total revenues for Q4 2024 reached $308.9 million, an increase from $263.5 million in Q4 2023[39]. - Adjusted EBITDA for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, was $524,623, representing a 38.3% increase from $379,211 in the previous year[53]. Fleet and Operations - The average number of vessels in the fleet increased to 153.1 in Q4 2024 from 117.8 in Q4 2023, a rise of 29.9%[26]. - The company owns a fleet of 155 vessels with an aggregate capacity of 15.0 million dwt, including various types of bulk carriers[62]. - The average age of the operational fleet remained stable at 12.1 years for both Q4 2024 and Q4 2023[50]. - The company took delivery of multiple vessels in 2024, including Star Voyager, Star Explorer, Stargazer, Star Earendel, Star Illusion, and Star Thetis, each under long-term charter-in arrangements[63]. Expenses and Cost Management - Charter-in hire expenses increased to $26.2 million in Q4 2024 from $3.7 million in Q4 2023, driven by an increase in charter-in days to 1,181 from 123[27]. - Vessel operating expenses rose to $72.8 million in Q4 2024 compared to $54.1 million in Q4 2023, with daily operating expenses per vessel increasing to $5,164 from $4,991[28]. - Dry docking expenses for Q4 2024 were $20.3 million, up from $11.5 million in Q4 2023, with nine vessels completing dry docking surveys compared to eight in the prior year[29]. - General and administrative expenses were $19.0 million in Q4 2024, slightly up from $18.1 million in Q4 2023, including share-based compensation of $5.1 million[30]. - Depreciation expense increased to $44.0 million in Q4 2024 from $33.9 million in Q4 2023, reflecting a rise in the average number of vessels in the fleet to 153.1 from 117.8[31]. - Cost reductions achieved since April 2024 totaled $21.8 million, with $12.6 million realized in Q4 2024 alone, equating to an annualized run rate of over $50.0 million[7]. Cash Flow and Financial Position - Cash and cash equivalents increased to $436.3 million as of December 31, 2024, from $259.7 million a year earlier[40]. - Total assets grew to $4.1 billion as of December 31, 2024, compared to $3.0 billion at the end of 2023[40]. - Net cash provided by operating activities for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, was $471.2 million, up from $335.8 million in the previous year[41]. - The company reported a net cash provided by operating activities of $471,154 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, compared to $335,777 in 2023, marking a 40.3% increase[53]. Market Conditions and Future Outlook - The Time Charter Equivalent (TCE) rate decreased to $16,129 per day in Q4 2024 from $18,296 per day in Q4 2023, indicating weaker market conditions[26]. - Star Bulk Carriers is well-positioned to capitalize on future opportunities in the dry bulk market, despite geopolitical uncertainties and a traditionally weaker first quarter[9]. - The company emphasizes the potential risks and uncertainties that could affect future performance, including market conditions and operational challenges[68]. Shareholder Returns - The company declared a quarterly dividend of $0.09 per share, corresponding to 60% of the cash flow for Q4 2024[10]. - Star Bulk Carriers has repurchased approximately 900,000 shares since the renewal of its share repurchase program, spending over $7.4 million in January 2025[6]. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) - The company is committed to meeting its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals and targets amid increasing scrutiny from investors and regulators[68]. Conference Call - The management team will host a conference call on February 19, 2025, to discuss financial results[58].

ATHENS, Greece, Feb. 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Star Bulk Carriers Corp. (the "Company" or "Star Bulk") (Nasdaq: SBLK), a global shipping company focusing on the transportation of dry bulk cargoes, today announced its unaudited financial and operating results for the fourth quarter of 2024 and the year ended December 31, 2024. Unless otherwise indicated or unless the context requires otherwise, all references in this press release to "we," "us," "our," or similar references, mean Star Bulk Carriers Corp. ...

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the reliability of brokerage recommendations, particularly focusing on Star Bulk Carriers (SBLK), and suggests that while the average brokerage recommendation indicates a "Buy," investors should be cautious and validate this with other analysis tools like the Zacks Rank [1][4][12]. Group 1: Brokerage Recommendations - Star Bulk Carriers has an average brokerage recommendation (ABR) of 1.80, which is between Strong Buy and Buy, based on recommendations from five brokerage firms [2]. - Out of the five recommendations, three are Strong Buy, accounting for 60% of the total recommendations [2]. - Despite the positive ABR, studies indicate that brokerage recommendations often do not effectively guide investors towards stocks with high potential for price appreciation [4][9]. Group 2: Analyst Bias and Limitations - Analysts from brokerage firms tend to exhibit a strong positive bias in their ratings due to vested interests, issuing five "Strong Buy" recommendations for every "Strong Sell" [5][9]. - This misalignment of interests can lead to misleading insights regarding a stock's future price movement [6][9]. Group 3: Zacks Rank vs. ABR - The Zacks Rank is a proprietary tool that classifies stocks based on earnings estimate revisions and is considered a reliable indicator of near-term price performance, contrasting with the ABR which is solely based on brokerage recommendations [7][10]. - The Zacks Rank is updated more frequently and reflects timely changes in earnings estimates, while the ABR may not be current [11]. Group 4: Current Earnings Outlook for SBLK - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Star Bulk Carriers has declined by 15% over the past month to $2.75, indicating growing pessimism among analysts regarding the company's earnings prospects [12]. - This decline in earnings estimates has resulted in a Zacks Rank of 5 (Strong Sell) for Star Bulk Carriers, suggesting that the positive ABR should be viewed with skepticism [13].