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South Bow Corporation(SOBO) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a normalized EBITDA of 266millionforthefirstquarterof2025,indicatingasolidfinancialstarttotheyear[5][9]ThecompanyreaffirmeditsnormalizedEBITDAguidancefor2025at266 million for the first quarter of 2025, indicating a solid financial start to the year [5][9] - The company reaffirmed its normalized EBITDA guidance for 2025 at 1.01 billion, with 90% of EBITDA contracted over the next seven years, minimizing commodity price and volumetric risks [9][16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company successfully completed the pipeline scope of the Blackrod Connection project, which is expected to contribute to future EBITDA growth [5][18] - The company maintained a system operating factor of 98% in the first quarter, demonstrating effective operations and strong system availability [13][75] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted that 94% of its volumes are fully committed, with only 6% reserved for uncontracted volumes, indicating a stable market position despite headwinds [46] - The company experienced volatility in uncontracted capacity due to additional pipeline egress capacity and tariff uncertainties, but this was anticipated [46][48] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on maintaining a risk-managed approach to capital allocation while strengthening its investment-grade financial position [20] - The management emphasized the importance of pipeline integrity and safety, committing to ongoing investments in integrity programs [8][19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to meet its contractual commitments despite operational restrictions due to the Milepost 171 incident [12][34] - The management highlighted the importance of transparency with stakeholders as they navigate the aftermath of the incident and work on remedial actions [19][45] Other Important Information - The company declared a quarterly dividend of $0.50 per share, payable on July 15, indicating a commitment to returning value to shareholders [6] - The company is coordinating closely with regulators and third-party experts to investigate the Milepost 171 incident and implement enhanced integrity programs [13][14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on the range of outcomes post-incident? - Management emphasized that 90% of EBITDA is contracted, reducing risk on the base business, and they are working closely with regulators to assess maintenance activities [24][26] Question: What are the expectations regarding pressure restrictions and their duration? - Management indicated it is too early to speculate on the timeframe for pressure restrictions, as investigations are ongoing [33][36] Question: How will the incident impact leverage and costs? - Management expects all costs related to the incident to be covered by insurance or through variable tolls, maintaining the debt to EBITDA ratio [42][43] Question: What is the outlook for uncommitted volumes? - Management noted that while there are headwinds against uncontracted barrels, the base business remains stable due to high contract commitments [46][48] Question: How does the company view long-term EBITDA growth? - Management remains optimistic about the Blackrod project contributing to future growth and sees potential tightening of egress volumes in 2026 [51][53] Question: What is the company's stance on potential asset sales and partnerships? - Management stated that all assets are core and while there are no current plans for asset sales, they remain open to partnerships, particularly with First Nations [59][60] Question: How is the company addressing the market interest post-election? - Management reported consistent interest from customers on both ends of the system, indicating a positive outlook for future business development [66][67]