Release Date: February 20, 2025
For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.
Q: Can you explain your leverage to the West Coast market given the current tightness due to unplanned downtime? A: Steve Ledbetter, EVP of Commercial, stated that HF Sinclair is well-positioned to benefit from the current market conditions on the West Coast. The company can supply the market through its Puget Sound refinery and has the capability to move barrels from the Salt Lake Valley to Vegas and from the Navajo, Artesia refinery to Phoenix. CEO Tim Go added that their strategy to move barrels west is proving beneficial in the current environment.
Q: What are your plans for growing the marketing business post-Sinclair acquisition? A: Steve Ledbetter explained that the company is focusing on organic growth, having added 87 net stores in 2024, with plans for an additional 152 in the first half of 2025. While there are no current plans for inorganic growth, the company is open to opportunities but believes organic growth will primarily drive expansion.
Q: How do you view the macro backdrop for the Lubricants business, and can it return to a $350 million run rate in 2025? A: Matt Joyce, SVP of Lubricants and Specialties, noted that while the base oil market has been challenging, the company is seeing signs of improvement. The business is expected to perform well, with underlying performance above mid-cycle levels. CEO Tim Go added that despite challenges, the business achieved a $375 million underlying business rate in 2024, indicating strength.
Q: How do you balance driving value recognition for your diversified business model, particularly for Lubricants, versus potential external monetization? A: CEO Tim Go emphasized that the goal is to maximize shareholder value, whether the Lubricants business remains within HF Sinclair's portfolio or is sold. The company is focused on optimizing and integrating the business while evaluating strategic options for maximizing value.
Q: Can you provide an update on your refining cost targets and initiatives to achieve them? A: Valerie Pompa, EVP of Operations, stated that the company is targeting a $7.25 per barrel cost, focusing on reliability improvements and digital performance strategies. CEO Tim Go added that the company achieved a record $7.98 per barrel in 2024 and has a clear path to reach the target through cost reductions and improved reliability.
For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.
This article first appeared on GuruFocus.Disclaimer: Investing carries risk. This is not financial advice. The above content should not be regarded as an offer, recommendation, or solicitation on acquiring or disposing of any financial products, any associated discussions, comments, or posts by author or other users should not be considered as such either. It is solely for general information purpose only, which does not consider your own investment objectives, financial situations or needs. TTM assumes no responsibility or warranty for the accuracy and completeness of the information, investors should do their own research and may seek professional advice before investing.