Brookfield Business Partners L.P.(BBU) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - First quarter adjusted EBITDA was $591 million, an increase from$544 million in the prior period [16] - Adjusted EFO for the quarter was $345 million, which included a$114 million net gain from the sale of an offshore oil services operation [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Industrial segment generated adjusted EBITDA of $304 million, benefiting from$72 million in tax benefits and contributions from a newly acquired electric heat tracing manufacturer [16] - The Business Service segment's adjusted EBITDA was CAD 213 million, up from CAD 205 million in 2024, driven by strong performance in residential mortgage insurance and improved project execution in construction [17] - The Infrastructure Services segment's adjusted EBITDA was $104 million, down from$143 million in the same quarter last year, impacted by the sale of offshore oil services [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Demand for advanced batteries in the advanced energy storage operation increased, contributing positively to results [17] - The company noted some demand headwinds in parts of Europe and softness in discretionary demand [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to own market-leading businesses and enhance their performance and cash flows, focusing on capital recycling and strategic acquisitions [4][5] - The strategy includes investing in areas like relocalization and digitalization, with a strong emphasis on the U.S. market as an attractive destination for capital [6][7] - The company is positioned to take advantage of growth opportunities and has recently agreed to acquire Antilia Scientific, a manufacturer of critical lab consumables [8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating economic cycles and adapting to changes, despite potential impacts from tariffs and global growth downturns [5][11] - The company is preparing for a more uncertain outlook over the next 12 to 18 months, while recognizing the resilience of its businesses [14][15] Other Important Information - The company ended the quarter with approximately CAD 2.3 billion in liquidity at the corporate level, allowing for continued buybacks and strategic investments [19] - A $250 million repurchase program was launched, with$140 million already returned to shareholders [4][19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact of tariffs on Dexco's EBITDA - Management indicated that while there are signs of recovery in North America, the market remains muted, and they are managing costs effectively to improve margins [22][23] Question: Status of Clarios' tax filing - Management confirmed that there are no changes in views regarding tax credits, and the tax return for 2024 is being processed normally [24][25] Question: Plans for returning capital to shareholders - The company is exploring monetization opportunities and may consider a larger share buyback program, depending on market conditions [26][28] Question: Realignment at Scientific Games - Management highlighted significant opportunities in digitizing the lottery ecosystem and has appointed a new head of digital to drive this initiative [32][33] Question: Participation in Barclays payments business - The company confirmed participation in the Barclays investment, aligning with its strategy in financial infrastructure [35][36] Question: Performance of Unidos in Brazil - The fleet management side of Unidos is performing well, with stable pricing, while the car rental side is also doing fine despite rising interest rates [46][49]