Marathon(MPC) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a first quarter net loss of $0.24 per share, with adjusted EBITDA approximately$ 2,000,000,000, which decreased sequentially by $145,000,000 due to lower results in refining and marketing and renewable diesel segments [18][19] - The company returned over$ 1,300,000,000 to shareholders through dividends and repurchases during the quarter [18] - Operating cash flow excluding changes in working capital was $1,000,000,000 for the quarter, driven by the strength and growth of the midstream business [23] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Refining utilization was at 89%, processing 2,600,000 barrels of crude per day, with significant planned turnaround activity particularly in the Gulf Coast region [4][19] - The Midstream segment adjusted EBITDA grew 8% year over year, with$ 619,000,000 received from MPLX, a 12.5% increase compared to the previous year [20][21] - The renewable diesel segment faced challenges with a 70% utilization rate due to unplanned downtime, but actions are being taken to optimize production [21][22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Refined product inventories have drawn for the ninth straight week and are below the five-year average, which, along with lower retail prices, is expected to support demand during the summer driving season [6][7] - The company anticipates around 800,000 barrels per day coming offline across several refineries in the U.S. and Europe this year, which could strengthen margins [7][10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is progressing a $1,250,000,000 standalone capital plan for 2025, with 70% targeted on high-return projects [12] - Investments are being made in the fully integrated West Coast value chain, particularly in the Los Angeles refinery, to improve reliability and energy efficiency [8][9] - The company aims to leverage its geographic diversification and integrated refining system to deliver peer-leading cash generation [13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism regarding demand, noting steady year-over-year demand for gasoline and growth in diesel and jet fuel, with no signs of an economic slowdown [36][37] - The company believes that the U.S. refining industry will remain structurally advantaged due to locational advantages and flexibility in refining systems [10][11] - Management is focused on optimizing operations and capital allocation to enhance competitiveness and deliver strong financial performance [28][29] Other Important Information - The company is managing its balance sheet to maintain an investment-grade credit profile, with a minimum target of$ 1,000,000,000 in cash [24][25] - The company has a strong liquidity position with $3,800,000,000 in consolidated cash and undrawn credit facilities of$ 5,000,000,000 [25] Q&A Session Summary Question: Demand perspective and economic slowdown - Management noted refined cracks have improved, indicating a seasonal uptick in demand, with overall utilization projected at 94% for the second quarter [34][35] Question: West Coast outlook and political environment - Management highlighted investments in the LA asset and the competitive advantage of their integrated operations, while monitoring regulatory changes closely [40][42] Question: Capture rates and commercial performance - Management emphasized the importance of commercial performance and sustainable advantages built over the years, aiming for capture rates approaching 100% [55][58] Question: Crude quality discounts and OPEC volumes - Management expressed optimism regarding benefits from heavy crude processing, anticipating discounts to improve due to OPEC's increased volumes [74][75] Question: Midstream growth and distribution sustainability - Management confirmed a durable growth outlook for MPLX distributions, supported by ongoing projects and capital discipline [78][82] Question: Renewable diesel profitability and operational reliability - Management is focused on optimizing operations and addressing challenges from Q1, with expectations for an EBITDA positive quarter in Q2 [120][121]