Q4 2025 CES Energy Solutions Corp Earnings Call

March 11, 2026

Speaker #1: Hello and welcome to the Rs Energy Solutions . Fourth quarter 2025 results conference call . All lines have been placed on mute to prevent any background noise .

Speaker #1: After the speaker's remarks, there will be a question and answer session, and if you would like to ask a question during this time, please press star one on your telephone keypad. I would now like to turn the conference over to Tony Arlecchino, Executive Vice President and CFO.

Speaker #1: You may begin

Speaker #2: Good morning , everyone , and thank you for attending today's call . I'd like to note that in our commentary today , there will be forward looking financial information and that our actual results may differ materially from the expected results due to various risk factors and assumptions .

Anthony Aulicino: Good morning, everyone, and thank you for attending today's call. I'd like to note that in our commentary today, there will be forward-looking financial information and that our actual results may differ materially from the expected results due to various risk factors and assumptions. These risk factors and assumptions are summarized in our annual information form, Q4 MD&A, and press release dated 10 March 2026. In addition, certain financial measures that we will refer to today are not recognized under current generally accepted accounting policies. For a description and definition of these, please see our Q4 MD&A. At this time, I'd like to turn the call over to Ken Zinger, our President and CEO.

Speaker #2: These risk factors and assumptions are summarized in our annual Information Form . Fourth quarter MDA and press release dated March 10th , 2026 .

Speaker #2: In addition , certain financial measures that we will refer to today are not recognized under current , generally accepted accounting policies . And for description and definition of these , please see our fourth quarter MDA .

Speaker #2: At this time , I'd like to turn the call over to Ken Zinger , our president and CEO Thank you . Tony . Welcome , everyone , and thank you for joining us for our fourth quarter and full year 2025 earnings call .

Ken Zinger: Thank you, Tony. Welcome, everyone, and thank you for joining us for our Q4 and Full Year 2025 Earnings Call. On today's call, I will provide a brief summary of our financial results released yesterday, followed by an update on capital allocation, and then our outlook for 2026, and finally, our divisional updates for Canada and the US. I will then pass the call over to Tony to provide a detailed financial update. We will take questions, and then we will wrap up the call. As always, I will start my comments today by highlighting some of the major financial accomplishments achieved in Q4 of 2025. These highlights include our highest-ever quarterly revenue of CAD 664.5 million, beating our prior record from Q1 of 2025 by almost 5%.

Speaker #2: On today's call , I will provide a brief summary of our financial results released yesterday , followed by an update on capital allocation and then our outlook for 2026 .

Speaker #2: And finally our divisional updates for Canada and the US . I will then pass the call over to Tony to provide a detailed financial update .

Speaker #2: We will take questions and then we will wrap up the call . As always , I will start my comments today by highlighting some of the major financial accomplishments achieved in Q4 of 2025 .

Speaker #2: These highlights include our highest ever quarterly revenue of $664.5 million , beating our prior record from Q1 of 2025 by almost 5% . Our highest ever quarterly EBITDA of $113.2 million , beating our prior record from last quarter by 9% .

Ken Zinger: Our highest-ever quarterly EBITDA of CAD 113.2 million, beating our prior record from last quarter by 9%. Q4 EBITDA margin of 17%. Total debt to trailing 12 months EBITDA was at 1.23x at the end of Q4 2025, which was almost dead center with our targeted range of 1 to 1.5x. Cash conversion cycle days in Q4 was 98 days, well below our target range of 110 to 115 days and our lowest quarterly level ever. The 2025 full-year annual financial highlights include all-time record revenue of CAD 2.5 billion, which was up 6% over the prior record from 2024.

Speaker #2: Fourth quarter EBITDA margin of 17% . Total debt to trailing 12 months EBITDA was at 1.23 times at the end of Q4 2025 , which was almost dead center with our targeted range of 1 to 1 and a half times cash conversion cycle days in Q4 was 98 days , well below our target range of 110 to 115 days .

Speaker #2: And our lowest quarterly level ever . The 2025 full year annual financial highlights include all time record revenue of 2.5 billion , which was up 6% over the prior record from 2024 .

Speaker #2: All time record EBITDA of $404.6 million and 7.5% of our outstanding shares were repurchased during the year at an average price of $8.20 , with regard to our capital allocation plans , I am pleased to report the following .

Ken Zinger: All-time record EBITDA of CAD 404.6 million, and 7.5% of our outstanding shares were repurchased during the year at an average price of CAD 8.20. With regard to our capital allocation plans, I am pleased to report the following. Consistent with our prior messaging, we intend to address the dividend once per year while reporting Q4 or Q1 of each year. On that note, we are happy to report that we are increasing our quarterly dividend by 29% to CAD 0.055 per share, beginning for shareholders of record on 31 March 2026. We will continue to support the business with the necessary investments required to provide acceptable growth and returns. This includes the previously announced CapEx in 2026 of CAD 85 to 90 million.

Speaker #2: Consistent with our prior messaging , we intend to address the dividend once per year while reporting Q4 or Q1 of each year . So on that note , we are happy to report that we are increasing our quarterly dividend by 29% to 5.5 cents per share , beginning for shareholders of record on March 31st , 2026 .

Speaker #2: We will continue to support the business with the necessary investments required to provide acceptable growth and returns . This includes the previously announced CapEx in 2026 of 85 to 90 million .

Speaker #2: We will continue to research and execute on strategic tuck in acquisitions opportunities , which support vertical integration or interrelated business lines or geographies where we believe we can add value and grow returns .

Ken Zinger: We will continue to research and execute on strategic tuck-in acquisition opportunities which support vertical integration or into related business lines or geographies, where we believe we can add value and grow returns. We will continue repurchasing shares while staying within our current debt to trailing 12 months EBITDA range of 1 to 1.5 times, as previously communicated. Although there has been negativity surrounding oil prices since April 2025 due to the forecast that oversupply expected to appear in the market in late 2025 and early 2026, this oversupply still has not materialized. The fear of it appearing has served to keep oil prices lower during the past 9 months, but not down to the feared level of $50 or less. This has led to only slightly reduced exploration and production in 2025.

Speaker #2: We will continue repurchasing shares while staying within our current debt to trailing 12 month EBITDA range of 1 to 1 and a half times as previously communicated .

Speaker #2: Although there has been negativity surrounding oil prices since April of 2025 due to the forecasted oversupply expected to appear in the market in late 2025 and early 2026 , this oversupply still has not materialized .

Speaker #2: The fear of it appearing has served to keep oil prices lower during the past nine months , but not down to the feared level of $50 or less .

Speaker #2: This has led to only slightly reduced exploration and production As a result of the Middle East situation and spiking oil prices . There is fresh optimism that severely constrained production out of the Middle East may actually serve to offset the impending oversupply concerns , or if it drags on for a few weeks , even outpace the supply and instead create a shortage .

Ken Zinger: As a result of the Middle East situation and spiking oil prices, there is fresh optimism that severely constrained production out of the Middle East may actually serve to offset the impending oversupply concerns, or if it drags on for a few weeks, even outpace the supply and instead create a shortage. Although this is not currently represented in our outlook, it is possible. Needless to say, prolonged inventory deficits that could result in oil prices at anything north of $65 to 70 could materially affect the industry outlook in both the short and medium terms, leading to increased activity levels and resulting in further upside in our operation and financial performance. Obviously, we have tremendous torque stored in the company performance. I would predict that any activity moved to the upside would translate to outsized participation in activity, revenues, and earnings by CES.

Speaker #2: Although this is not currently represented in our outlook , it is possible Needless to say , prolonged inventory deficits that could result in oil prices at anything north of 65 to $70 could materially affect the industry outlook in both the short and medium terms , leading to increased activity levels and resulting in further upside in our operation and financial performance Obviously , we have tremendous torque stored in the company performance .

Speaker #2: I would predict that any activity moved to the upside would translate to outsized participation in activity , revenues and earnings by Rs We will have to wait and see what the next few weeks brings us in the way of short and medium term supply , demand and dynamics , and pricing .

Ken Zinger: We'll have to wait and see what the next few weeks brings us in the way of short- and medium-term supply, demand, and dynamics, and pricing. Now for a summary of our Q4 performance overall and by division. Today, our rig count on North American land stands at 221 rigs out of the 745 listed as currently operating on land in North America, representing an industry-leading and an all-time record North American land market share of 29.7%. This market share surpasses our prior record from last quarter of 29.5%. In Q4, 65% of CES revenue was generated in the United States and 35% in Canada. As previously noted, quarterly revenues by countries and by divisions were at all-time highs in Q4. That speaks to the strength of the entire business currently.

Speaker #2: Now for a summary of our Q4 performance . Overall . And by division today , our rig count on North American land stands at 221 rigs out of the 745 listed as currently operating on land in North America , representing an industry leading and an all time record .

Speaker #2: North American land market share of 29.7% . This market share surpasses our prior record from last quarter of 29.5% in Q4 , 65% of service revenue was generated in the United States and 35% in Canada As previously noted , quarterly revenues by countries and by divisions were at all time highs in Q4 That speaks to the strength of the entire business .

Speaker #2: Currently , these results were driven by outperformance across the board , not just by one division or national jurisdiction . As noted during the Q3 , call , a message throughout the first half of the year , we expected margins to be under pressure during the first half of 2025 , as tariff concerns the negative macro outlook and our overstaffed staffing in preparation for some large RFPs all took a toll on margins in Q1 and Q2 As shown in our Q3 performance of 16.6% margins and then emphasized in our Q4 results with the 17% margins , the business has been dialed back in and is now operating at an extremely high efficiency level .

Ken Zinger: These results were driven by outperformance across the board, not just by one division or national jurisdiction. As noted during the Q3 call and messaged throughout the first half of the year, we expected margins to be under pressure during the first half of 2025 as tariff concerns, the negative macro outlook, and our overstaffing in preparation for some large RFPs all took a toll on margins in Q1 and Q2. As shown in our Q3 performance of 16.6% margins and then emphasized in our Q4 results with the 17% margins, the business has been dialed back in and is now operating at an extremely high efficiency level. We have staffed up even further throughout the second half of 2025 as we continue to gradually take on the full workload from the RFP wins.

Speaker #2: We have stepped up even further throughout the second half of 2025 as we continue to gradually take on the full workload from the RFP wins.

Speaker #2: We expect the full realization of the awarded revenues to show up completely in the financials by the end of Q2. In Canada, the Canadian Drilling Fluids division continues to lead the WCSB and market share.

Ken Zinger: We expect the full realization of the awarded revenues to show up completely in the financials by the end of Q2. In Canada, the Canadian Drilling Fluids division continues to lead the WCSB in market share. Today, we are providing service to 81 of the 213 jobs listed as underway in Canada or a 38% market share. The overall active drilling rig count in Canada throughout Q4 and so far in Q1 has been trending consistently lower than 2024 by approximately 10% year-over-year. In contrast to that, as previously noted by our record revenues, the service intensity phenomenon continues to more than offset the reduction in the number of rigs. We remain very optimistic about the prospects for 2026 due to the completion and full startup of infrastructure projects and their associated takeaway capacity.

Speaker #2: Today , we are providing service to 81 of the 213 jobs listed as underway in Canada , or a 38% market share . The overall active drilling rig count in Canada .

Speaker #2: Throughout Q4 and so far in Q1 has been trending consistently lower than 2024 by approximately 10% year over year . In contrast to that , as previously noted by our record revenues , the service intensity phenomenon continues to more than offset the reduction in the number of rigs .

Speaker #2: We remain very optimistic about the prospects for 2026 due to the completion and full start of infrastructure projects and their associated takeaway capacity .

Speaker #2: We continue to view the Wcsb as a basin , which is in a great position to not only weather the macro pressure , but also to benefit significantly if and when those pressures subside Pure chem , our Canadian production chemical business , continued its run of record results in Q4 .

Ken Zinger: We continue to view the WCSB as a basin which is in a great position to not only weather the macro pressure, but also to benefit significantly if and when those pressures subside. PureChem, our Canadian production chemical business, continued its run of record results in Q4. PureChem continued its impressive growth trajectory as all of the business lines continued to perform at record levels. We experienced further revenue and earnings from our continued market penetration and market share growth in Q4. Additionally, we have recently begun achieving access to larger opportunities in the attractive heavy oil thermal market. This is a market we've been focused on penetrating for the past 10 years. Although it is a long and complicated process to break into this market, we have persistently worked to find effective solutions.

Speaker #2: Pure continued its impressive growth trajectory as all of the business lines continue to perform at record levels . We experienced further revenue and earnings from our continued market penetration and market share growth in Q4 Additionally , we have recently begun achieving access to larger opportunities in the attractive heavy oil thermal market .

Speaker #2: This is a market we've been focused on penetrating for the past ten years. Although it is a long and complicated process to break into this market, we have persistently worked to find effective solutions. Over the past year or two, we have finally been able to achieve some wins in treating thermal production for a couple of smaller operators and plants in the region.

Ken Zinger: Over the past year or two, we have finally been able to achieve some wins in treating thermal production for a couple of the smaller operators and plants in the regions. This has now given us the data to demonstrate to the larger operators that not only do we have capability to service the production reliably, but we can also provide superior results than the status quo. This is high volume, high revenue, and very sticky business due to its complexity and due to the cost of change. We liken this business to the offshore business in the United States, different chemistry and problems with large rewards if you can penetrate and execute on them. Now for the United States.

Speaker #2: This has now given us the data to demonstrate to the larger operators that not only do we have capability to service the production reliably , but we can also provide superior results than the status quo .

Speaker #2: This is high volume , high revenue and very sticky business due to its complexity and due to the cost of change . We like in this business to the offshore business in the United States .

Speaker #2: Different chemistry and problems with large rewards if you can penetrate and execute on them. Now, for the United States, as our US drilling fluids group is providing chemistries and service to 140 of the 532 rigs listed as active in the US market today.

Ken Zinger: AES, our US drilling fluids group, is providing chemistries and service to 140 of the 532 rigs listed as active in the US land market today, for a continually widening and AES record-tying number one market share of US land rigs at 26.3%. The number of rigs drilling in the US is slightly up since we last reported in November, but down by just over 10% year over year. In spite of this, AES is actually up by 2 rigs year over year, and currently we enjoy a basin-leading 87 rigs out of the 241 listed as working in the Permian Basin, or a number one market share of 36%, very close to our highest market share ever in the Permian.

Speaker #2: For a continually widening and as record tying number one market share of US land rigs at 26.3% . The number of rigs drilling in the USA is slightly up since we last reported in November , but down by just over 10% year over year .

Speaker #2: In spite of this , AOS is actually up by two rigs year over year , and currently we enjoy a basin leading 87 rigs out of the 241 listed as working in the Permian Basin , or a number one market share of 36% .

Speaker #2: Very close to our highest market share ever in the Permian . I would also like to note that AOS completion Services , formerly Hydralyte , continues to make significant penetration into the clean out , drill out market in the Permian and South Texas regions .

Ken Zinger: I would also like to note that AES Completion Services, formerly HydroLite, continues to make significant penetration into the clean out drill out market in the Permian and South Texas regions. In partnership with AES, this business unit is delivering material revenue and EBITDA contributions significantly above the pre-acquisition levels. As well, Fossil Fluids Group that we acquired in Oklahoma during Q2 of 2025 is also running at a much higher revenue and profitability level than prior to our purchase. Their specialization in the increasingly attractive Cherokee Shale hybrid oil and gas play provides us with more exposure to another growing basin with alignment to the strong trends currently being experienced in the North American natural gas market. Our market shares throughout the US land market continue to grow as natural gas production continues to garner attention.

Speaker #2: In partnership with AOS, this business unit is delivering material revenue and EBITDA contributions significantly above the pre-levels as well. Fossil Fluids Group, that we acquired in Oklahoma during Q2 of 2025, is also running at a much higher revenue and profitability level than prior to our purchase.

Speaker #2: There . Specialization in the increasingly attractive Cherokee Shale hybrid oil and gas play provides us with more exposure to another growing basin , with alignment to the strong trends currently being experienced in the North American natural gas market .

Speaker #2: Our market shares throughout the USA continue to grow as natural gas production continues to garner attention . A little over two years ago , during our November 2023 earnings call , I noted that we intended to begin putting an emphasis on getting back into the Haynesville play as gas was starting to become relevant again at that time , we had zero rigs in the Haynesville .

Ken Zinger: A little over 2 years ago, during our November 2023 earnings call, I noted that we intended to begin putting an emphasis on getting back into the Haynesville play as gas was starting to become relevant again. At that time, we had 0 rigs in the Haynesville. Today, I'm very proud to report that we are on 15 of the 53 working in the Haynesville. This represents a market share of over 28%, which is up from 21% when we reported 3.5 months ago. Over the past year, we have constructed a blending plant and distribution facility, including a rail siding strategically located within the basin. We have also developed some highly technical products and systems specifically for the high temperature, high pressure challenges within the Haynesville play.

Speaker #2: Today , I'm very proud to report that we are on 15 of the 53 working in Haynesville . This represents a market share of over 28% , which is up from 21% when we reported three and a half months ago .

Speaker #2: Over the past year , we have constructed a blending plant and distribution facility , including a rail , siding strategically located within the basin .

Speaker #2: We have also developed some highly technical products and systems , specifically for the high temperature , high pressure challenges within the Haynesville play .

Speaker #2: We anticipate further growth in this area as activity continues to ramp up in the coming months and years. At the beginning of 2024, there were 33 rigs working in Haynesville.

Ken Zinger: We anticipate further growth in this area as activity continues to ramp up in the coming months and years. At the beginning of 2024, there were 33 rigs working in the Haynesville. Today, there are 53, which represents year-over-year activity growth of close to 30% per year as LNG exports and AI continue to drive demand and growth in both the Haynesville as well as the Northeast US. Finally, our US production chemical division, Jacam Catalyst, continues its steady trend of growing market share and profitability. The division remains focused on further market penetration in all the areas in which they operate. As noted on the prior quarterly earnings calls in 2025, Jacam Catalyst invested in CapEx and personnel during the first half of 2025 in order to support not only its growing activity levels, but also to support several potential meaningful business opportunities.

Speaker #2: Today , there are 53 , which represents year over year activity growth of close to 30% per year . As LNG exports and AI continue to drive demand and growth in both Haynesville as well as the North East USA .

Speaker #2: Finally, our US Production Chemical division, Catalyst, continues its steady trend of growing market share and profitability. The division remains focused on further market penetration in all the areas in which they operate.

Speaker #2: As noted on the prior quarterly earnings calls in 2025, GM Catalyst invested in CapEx and personnel during the first half of 2025.

Speaker #2: In order to support not only its growing activity levels , but also to support several potential meaningful business opportunities . It is important to note that Jacobs business , like Pure Chems , is almost entirely leveraged to production related spending .

Ken Zinger: It is important to note that Jacam Catalyst's business, like PureChem's, is almost entirely leveraged to production-related spending by the E&Ps, and therefore the revenue and earnings are extremely durable through any cycle. As noted earlier in my comments, Jacam Catalyst has now been awarded some of the major RFP business and have been actively onboarding this business since late November. In the coming few months, we will complete the transition to servicing this new opportunity. This will be evidenced by the increased revenue, EBITDA, and CapEx that we have previously discussed and forecasted for 2026. Also, as noted on the Q2 earnings call, Jacam Catalyst has been optimizing manufacturing, developing products, and hiring some technical specialists in order to become a relevant supplier in the Gulf of Mexico.

Speaker #2: By the MPs, and therefore the revenue and earnings are extremely durable through any cycle. As noted earlier in my comments, JKM Catalyst has now been awarded some of the major RFP business and have been actively onboarding this business since late November.

Speaker #2: In the coming few months , we will complete the transition to servicing this new opportunity . There will be this will be evidenced by the increased revenue , EBITDA and CapEx that we have previously discussed and forecasted for 2026 .

Speaker #2: Also , as noted on the Q2 earnings call , catalyst has been optimizing , manufacturing , developing products , and hiring some technical specialists in order to become a relevant supplier in the Gulf of America .

Speaker #2: Our initial targets in this region are the 54 deep Water platforms , to be followed by the six ultra deep platforms in the Gulf .

Ken Zinger: Our initial targets in this region are the 54 deepwater platforms, to be followed by the 6 ultra-deepwater platforms in the Gulf. These types of platforms experience extreme technical conditions and require high volume treatment and superior technical support. These conditions allow for specialized chemical solutions which, although different from land-based chemistries, present opportunities for product development and solution differentiation. Although a long and steep learning curve, we are making progress, as evidenced by the fact that we have recently begun treating our fourth platform with all of the chemistries required and have now been awarded a trial on a fifth platform to start testing chemical applications. As with prior platforms, it will take several months to a few quarters before all testing is complete and we are fully treating the platform with a full suite of chemicals.

Speaker #2: These types of platforms experience extreme technical conditions and require high volume treatment and superior technical support . These conditions allow for specialized chemical solutions which , although different from land based chemistries , present opportunities for product development and solution differentiation .

Speaker #2: Although a long and steep learning curve , we are making progress , as evidenced by the fact that we have recently begun treating our fourth platform with all of the chemistries required , and have now been awarded a trial on a fifth platform to start testing chemical applications .

Speaker #2: As with prior platforms , it will take several months to a few quarters before all testing is complete and we are fully treating the platform with the full suite of chemicals As always , I would like to reiterate the confidence I have in the resilience of our business model in the face of any market conditions possible .

Ken Zinger: As always, I would like to reiterate the confidence I have in the resilience of our business model in the face of many market conditions possible. Our business is countercyclical, requires minimal CapEx, and demonstrates high free cash flow throughout the cycles. Noteworthy as well is that in spite of the pullback in upstream activity, we have consistently experienced revenue and opportunity growth throughout 2025 and into 2026. Therefore, our strategy remains the same, anchored by a cautious focus on maintaining relationships with existing clients while continuing to develop products and solutions which benefit them, as well as differentiating us from our competitors. We believe our Q4 results are an early indicator of the tremendous torque we have building in our business right now. We also believe that US upstream activity will inevitably accelerate at some point in 2026 or 2027.

Speaker #2: Our business is countercyclical , requires minimal CapEx , and demonstrates high free cash flow throughout the cycles . Noteworthy as well as that , in spite of the pullback in upstream activity , we have consistently experienced revenue and opportunity growth throughout 2025 and into 2026 .

Speaker #2: Therefore , our strategy remains the same , anchored by a cautious focus on maintaining relationships with existing clients while continuing to develop products and solutions which benefit them , as well as differentiating us from our competitors .

Speaker #2: We believe our Q4 results are an early indicator of the tremendous talk we have building in our business right now . We also believe that US upstream activity will inevitably accelerate at some point in 2026 or 2027 .

Speaker #2: In the meantime , we continue to expect 2026 to be a year of growth and positioning , with 2027 potentially looking even stronger in North America as the oil market seems headed towards a more positive structure and natural gas demand accelerates due to LNG and AI development .

Ken Zinger: In the meantime, we continue to expect 2026 to be a year of growth and positioning, with 2027 potentially looking even stronger in North America as the oil market seems headed towards a more positive structure and natural gas demand accelerates due to LNG and AI development. With regard to US tariffs and the suggested Canadian countertariffs, these continue to have little to no direct effect on our business in their current state. However, we have taken significant steps to restructure our manufacturing and supply chain in order to minimize future exposures as much as possible. I will state again for clarity that, as noted clearly on our Q1 2025 earnings call, the impact from tariffs to date continues to be immaterial to our overall business.

Speaker #2: With regard to USA tariffs and the suggested Canadian Counter-tariffs , these continue to have little to no direct effect on our business . In the current state .

Speaker #2: However, we have taken significant steps to restructure our manufacturing and supply chain in order to minimize future exposures as much as possible.

Speaker #2: I will state again for clarity that, as noted clearly on our Q1 2025 earnings call, the impact from tariffs to date continues to be immaterial to our overall business. Finally, I want to extend my appreciation to each and every one of our employees for their commitment to the business, culture, and success of CES. Due to the growth we are still experiencing, as well as anticipating experiencing, I am truly grateful.

Ken Zinger: Finally, I want to extend my appreciation to each and every one of our employees for their commitment to the business culture and success of CES. Due to the growth we are still experiencing as well as anticipating experiencing, we have increased the total number of employees at CES by 7% from 2,530 on 1 January 2025 to 2,707 at the end of 2025. I will now pass the call over to Tony for the financial update.

Speaker #2: We have increased the total number of employees at CES by 7% from 2530 on January 1st , 2025 to 2707 at the end of 2025 .

Speaker #2: I will now pass the call over to Tony for the financial update .

Speaker #3: 2025 represented a pivotal year for CS as we continued and accelerated our unwavering focus on surplus free cash flow generation. Return on capital employed, attractive returns, and financial discipline during the year.

Anthony Aulicino: 2025 represented a pivotal year for CES as we continued and accelerated our unwavering focus on surplus free cash flow generation, return on capital employed, attractive returns, and financial discipline. During the year, these financial attributes were recognized by credit rating agencies through DBRS's upgrade to BB (low) with a stable outlook and S&P's upgrade to B+ with a stable outlook. These upgrades, combined with our consistently strong financial results, facilitated a CAD 75 million addition to our high-yield bond at an attractive implied yield of 5.6%. Our delivery of consistent and strong financial results has also led to acknowledgments by the equity markets, including CES's inclusion into the S&P/TSX Canadian Dividend Aristocrats Index on 13 January 2026, and last Friday's announcement by FTSE for inclusion in the FTSE Canadian Small Cap Index effective 20 March 2026.

Speaker #3: These financial attributes were recognized by credit rating agencies through Dbrs upgrade to be low with a stable outlook and S&P upgrade to be high with a stable outlook .

Speaker #3: These upgrades, combined with our consistently strong financial results, facilitated a $75 million addition to our high yield bond and an attractive implied yield of 5.6%.

Speaker #3: Our delivery of consistent and strong financial results has also led to acknowledgements by the equity markets , including CS inclusion into the S&P TSX dividend Aristocrat Index on January 13th , 2026 , and last Friday's announcement by FTSE for inclusion in the FTSE Canadian Small Cap Index effective March 20th , 2026 .

Speaker #3: CS Credit Quality conservative capital structure and attractive cost of capital allow us to effectively return capital to shareholders while executing our business plan , including expansion opportunities such as the Haynesville drilling fluids market , the sizable and sizable production chemical markets in the Gulf of America and the Canadian oil sands CS financial results for the fourth quarter and full year set record levels of revenue and adjusted EBITDA and demonstrated a continuation of strong free cash flow and high quality earnings .

Anthony Aulicino: CES's credit quality, conservative capital structure, and attractive cost of capital allow us to effectively return capital to shareholders while executing our business plan, including expansion opportunities such as the Haynesville drilling fluids market, the sizable production chemical markets in the Gulf of Mexico, and the Canadian oil sands. CES's financial results for Q4 and full year set record levels of revenue and adjusted EBITDA and demonstrated a continuation of strong free cash flow and high-quality earnings despite muted rig counts in the US and Canada. These results underpin the unique resilience of CES's consumable chemicals business model. Revenue for 2024 of CAD 2.5 billion represented a new all-time high and a 6% increase over CAD 2.4 billion in 2023.

Speaker #3: Despite muted rig counts in the US and Canada . These results underpin the unique resilience of CS consumable chemicals business model revenue for 2025 of $2.5 billion represented a new all time high , and a 6% increase over 2.4 billion in 2024 .

Speaker #3: Adjusted EBITDA of $404 million reached record levels and compared to $403 million in 2024, and adjusted EBITDA margin for the year of 16.2%, compared to 17.1% in 2024.

Anthony Aulicino: Adjusted EBITDA of CAD 404 million reached record levels and compared to CAD 403 million in 2024, and adjusted EBITDA margin for the year of 16.2% compared to 17.1% in 2024. Adjusted EBITDA margins continued to come in near the top end of our 15.5% to 16.5% guidance. Should remain constructive given the current operating environment. These impressive results were achieved through strong contributions across all parts of the business amid increasing levels of service intensity, vertically integrated supply chains, and leading market share positions. Strong annual free cash flow of CAD 166 million enabled CES to continue its track record of consistent returns to shareholders through CAD 35 million in dividends and CAD 140 million in share repurchases.

Speaker #3: Adjusted EBITDA margins continue to come in near the top end of our 15.5 to 16.5% guidance , and should remain constructive given the current operating environment .

Speaker #3: These impressive results were achieved through strong contributions across all parts of the business amid increasing levels of service intensity , vertically integrated supply chains and leading market share positions , strong annual free cash flow of $166 million enabled CS to continue its track record of consistent returns to shareholders through 35 million in dividends and 140 million in share repurchases , focusing on the fourth quarter , CS delivered record quarterly revenue and adjusted EBITDA and demonstrated a continuation of margin expansion , strong funds flow from operations , and high quality earnings .

Anthony Aulicino: Focusing on Q4, CES delivered record quarterly revenue and adjusted EBITDAC and demonstrated a continuation of margin expansion, strong funds flow from operations, and high-quality earnings, despite lower rig counts and WTI price-related and market volatility. These results underpin the unique resilience of CES's consumable chemicals business model and sustained profitable growth as our customers continue to adopt chemical-related improved efficiencies and require higher treatment levels for increasingly prolific wells. In Q4, CES generated record revenue of CAD 665 million, representing an annualized run rate of approximately CAD 2.7 billion, and a 10% increase over prior year's CAD 605 million. Revenue generated in the US set a new record at $435 million, representing 65% of total consolidated revenue.

Speaker #3: Despite lower recounts in price-related and market volatility, these results underpin the unique resilience of CS consumable chemicals business model and sustained profitable growth.

Speaker #3: As our customers continue to adopt chemical related , improved efficiencies and require higher treatment levels for increasingly prolific wells In Q4 , CS generated record revenue of $665 million , representing an annualized run rate of approximately $2.7 billion and a 10% increase over prior years .

Speaker #3: 605 million revenue generated in the US set a new record of 435 million , representing 65% of total consolidated revenue . These results , compared to revenue of 409 million in Q3 2025 and 390 million in Q4 2024 .

Anthony Aulicino: These results compared to revenue of CAD 409 million in Q3 2025 and CAD 390 million in Q4 2024. Revenue generated in Canada also set a new quarterly record at CAD 230 million, compared to CAD 214 million in Q3 and CAD 215 million in 2024. Revenue levels continued to benefit from recent acquisition contributions, elevated service intensity, and production chemical volumes, driven by increasingly complex drilling programs. Customer emphasis on optimizing production through effective chemical treatments benefited both countries and countered declines in industry rig counts, illustrating the resilience and attractiveness of our business model. Adjusted EBITDAC in Q4 came in at CAD 113.2 million, compared to CAD 103.3 million in Q3 and CAD 103.2 million in Q4 2024.

Speaker #3: Revenue generated in Canada also set a new quarterly record at $230 million, compared to $214 million in Q3 and $250 million in 2024.

Speaker #3: Revenue levels continued to benefit from recent acquisition contributions and elevated service intensity , and production . Volumes , driven by increasingly complex drilling programs .

Speaker #3: Customer emphasis on optimizing production through effective chemical treatments benefited both countries and countered declines in industry rig counts, illustrating the resilience and attractiveness of our business model.

Speaker #3: Adjusted EBITDA in Q4 came in at 113.2 million , compared to 103.3 million in Q3 and 103.2 million in Q4 2020 . For Q4 , adjusted EBITDA margin of 17.0% came in above our targeted EBITDA margin range , and compared to 16.6% in Q3 and 17% in Q4 2024 .

Anthony Aulicino: Q4's adjusted EBITDAC margin of 17.0% came in above our targeted EBITDA margin range and compared to 16.6% in Q3 and 17% in Q4 2024. This continued trend of improving margins reflected the onset of growing into a cost structure supporting higher revenue levels, strong contributions from accretive tuck-in acquisitions, and an attractive product mix. CES generated CAD 108 million in cash flow from operations, setting a new all-time record in the quarter, compared to CAD 52 million in Q3 and CAD 62 million in Q4 2024. The increase in cash flow from operations was driven by strong funds flow from operations, combined with a working capital harvest in the quarter. Funds flow from operations, which isolates the effect of working capital fluctuations, was CAD 84 million in Q4, compared to CAD 86 million in Q3 and CAD 69 million in Q4 2024.

Speaker #3: This continued trend of improving margins reflected the onset of growing into a cost structure , supporting higher revenue levels , strong contributions from accretive tuck in acquisitions , and an attractive product mix Rs generated $108 million in cash flow from operations , setting a new all time record in the quarter compared to 52 million in Q3 and 62 million in Q4 2020 .

Speaker #3: For the increase in cash flow from operations was driven by strong funds flow from operations combined with a working capital harvest in the quarter , funds flow from operations which isolates the effect of working capital fluctuations , was $84 million in Q4 compared to 86 million in Q3 and 69 million in Q4 2024 .

Speaker #3: Free cash flow was $78 million in Q4, compared to $27 million in Q3 and $35 million in Q4 2024. As measured by a free cash flow to adjusted EBITDA conversion rate.

Anthony Aulicino: Free cash flow was CAD 78 million in Q4, compared to CAD 27 million in Q3 and CAD 35 million in Q4 2024. As measured by a free cash flow to adjusted EBITDAC conversion rate, this equates to approximately 69% in the current quarter and 41% for 2025. Excluding investments in working capital, CES realized a conversion rate of 49% for the quarter and 51% for 2025. CES maintained a prudent approach to capital spending through the quarter, with CapEx spend net of disposals of CAD 18 million, representing 3% of revenue. We will continue to adjust plans as required to support existing business and attractive growth throughout our divisions. For 2026, we expect cash CapEx to be approximately CAD 90 million, split evenly between maintenance and expansion capital to support incremental accretive business development opportunities and current record revenue levels.

Speaker #3: This equates to approximately 69% in the current quarter and 41% for 2025. Excluding investments in working capital, we realized a conversion rate of 49% for the quarter and 51% for 2025.

Speaker #3: CS maintained a prudent approach to capital spending through the quarter , with CapEx spend , net of disposals of $18 million , representing 3% of revenue .

Speaker #3: We will continue to adjust plans as required to support existing business and attractive growth throughout our divisions and for 2026 , we expect cash CapEx to be approximately $90 million , split evenly between maintenance and expansion capital to support incremental accretive business development opportunities and current record revenue levels .

Speaker #3: SES maintains the flexibility to alter spending levels commensurate with changes in end markets and required support levels during the quarter , we continue to be active in our NCIB program , purchasing 4.9 million common shares at an average price of $10.28 per share , for a total cash outlay of $50.4 million , representing 2.2% of outstanding shares .

Anthony Aulicino: CES maintains the flexibility to alter spending levels commensurate with changes in end markets and required support levels. During the quarter, we continued to be active in our NCIB program, purchasing 4.9 million common shares at an average price of CAD 10.28 per share for a total cash outlay of CAD 50.4 million, representing 2.2% of outstanding shares at 1 July 2025. For the full year 2025, we purchased 16.8 million shares at an average price of CAD 8.20 per share, representing 7.5% of outstanding shares as at 31 December 2024. Subsequent to the quarter, we purchased 1.3 million shares at an average price of CAD 13.01 per share for a total of CAD 16.7 million.

Speaker #3: At July 1st , 2025 . For the full year 2025 , we purchased 16.8 million shares at an average price of $8.20 per share , representing 7.5% of outstanding shares .

Speaker #3: As at December 31st , 2024 . Subsequent to the quarter , we purchased 1.3 million shares at an average price of $13.01 per share , for a total of $16.7 million .

Speaker #3: This brings the total purchases under our current NCIB to 50% of the 18.9 million shares available since the inception of the NCIB program in 2018 , SES has purchased 87 million shares , representing 32% of the outstanding shares at that time , at an average price of $4.49 per share .

Anthony Aulicino: This brings the total purchases under our current NCIB to 50% of the 18.9 million shares available. Since the inception of the NCIB program in 2018, CES has purchased 87 million shares, representing 32% of the outstanding shares at that time at an average price of CAD 4.49 per share. During the quarter, CES completed a private placement of an additional CAD 75 million in senior notes through 24 May 2029 at a premium of 103 1/8, representing an implied yield of 5.6%, acknowledging the credit quality of the business model. This issuance, in conjunction with the Q2 2025 amendment and extension of our senior facility, leaves us with significant financial flexibility and no near-term maturities.

Speaker #3: During the quarter , SES completed a private placement of an additional $75 million in senior notes due May 24th , 2029 , at a premium of 103 and an eighth representing an implied yield of 5.6% .

Speaker #3: Acknowledging the credit quality of the business model, this issuance, in conjunction with the Q2 2025 amendment and extension of our senior facility, leaves us with significant financial flexibility and no near-term maturities.

Speaker #3: We ended the quarter with $497 million in total debt, representing a decrease of $14 million from the prior quarter and an increase of $44 million from December 31, 2024.

Anthony Aulicino: We ended the quarter with CAD 497 million in total debt, representing a decrease of CAD 14 million from the prior quarter and an increase of CAD 44 million from 31 December 2024. Total debt was primarily comprised of the CAD 275 million in senior notes, net draw on the senior facility of CAD 109 million, and CAD 99 million in lease obligations. Total debt to adjusted EBITDA of 1.23 times at the end of the quarter compared to 1.29 times at 30 September, demonstrating our continued commitment to maintaining prudent leverage in the 1 to 1.5 times range.

Speaker #3: Total debt was primarily comprised of the $275 million in senior notes , a net draw on the senior facility of $109,000,099 million in lease obligations .

Speaker #3: Total debt to adjusted EBITDA of 1.23 times at the end of the quarter, compared to 1.29 times at September 30th. Demonstrating our continued commitment to maintaining prudent leverage in the 1 to 1 and a half times range.

Speaker #3: This prudent capital structure is further illustrated by our current net of approximately $123 million, which has increased by $14 million from the end of the quarter, primarily as a result of our quarterly dividend payment and timing of procurement-related spends.

Anthony Aulicino: This prudent capital structure is further illustrated by our current net draw of approximately CAD 123 million, which has increased by CAD 14 million from the end of the quarter, primarily as a result of our quarterly dividend payment and timing of procurement-related spends. We are very comfortable with our current debt level, maturity schedule, and leverage in the 1 to 1.5 times range, thereby enabling strong return of capital to shareholders and prioritizing a sustainable dividend and share buybacks in addition to tuck-in strategic acquisition opportunities. In accordance with that view, I am pleased to announce that on 10 March, the company's board of directors approved a 29% increase to the quarterly dividend from CAD 0.0425 per share to CAD 0.055 per share.

Speaker #3: We are very comfortable with our current debt level maturity schedule , and leverage in the 1 to 1 and a half times range , thereby enabling strong return of capital to shareholders and prioritizing a sustainable dividend and share buybacks .

Speaker #3: In addition to token strategic acquisition opportunities In accordance with that view , I am pleased to announce that on March 10th , the company's Board of directors approved a 29% increase to the quarterly dividend from 4.2 $0.05 per share to 5.5 cents per share .

Speaker #3: This represents an annualized dividend yield of 1.3% at yesterday's closing price , and a conservative annual payout ratio of approximately 19% . The 29% increase to the quarterly dividend will only cost an incremental $11 million annually , underscoring another ancillary benefit of share buybacks .

Anthony Aulicino: This represents an annualized dividend yield of 1.3% at yesterday's closing price and a conservative annual payout ratio of approximately 19%. The 29% increase to the quarterly dividend will only cost an incremental CAD 11 million annually, underscoring another ancillary benefit of share buybacks by reducing the share count and increasing returns to shareholders. Elevated activity levels, combined with our continued focus on working capital optimization, has led to improvements in cash conversion cycle, which ended the quarter at a record low of 98 days compared to 110 days in Q3. This translates to an operating working capital as a percentage of annualized quarterly revenue of 26% compared to our historical range of 30 to 35%. Each percentage improvement at these revenue levels represents approximately CAD 27 million on our balance sheet.

Speaker #3: By reducing the share count and increasing returns to shareholders . Elevated activity levels combined with our continued focus on working capital optimization , has led to improvements in cash conversion cycle , which ended the quarter at a record low of 98 days compared to 110 days in Q3 .

Speaker #3: This translates to an operating working capital as a percentage of annualized quarterly revenue of 26%, compared to our historical range of 30% to 35% each.

Speaker #3: Percentage improvement at these revenue levels represents approximately $27 million . On our balance sheet . We continue to remain focused on profitable growth , acceptable margins , working capital optimization , and prudent capital expenditures , which drive our key metric of return .

Anthony Aulicino: We continue to remain focused on profitable growth, acceptable margins, working capital optimization, and prudent capital expenditures which drive our key metric of return on average capital employed. This approach has led to a cultural adoption of these key factors, allowing us to maintain a strong trailing twelve-month ROCE of 23%. At current levels of activity, market share, and service intensity, CES remains in a position of strength and flexibility supporting our capital allocation priorities which are governed by adequate return metrics. We continue to prioritize capital allocation toward supporting existing and new business through investments in working capital as required and CapEx projects that deliver internal rates of return above our internal hurdle rates.

Speaker #3: On average , capital employed . This approach has led to a cultural adoption of these key factors , allowing us to maintain a strong , trailing 12 month rotce of 23% .

Speaker #3: At current levels of activity , market share and service intensity , CS remains in a position of strength and flexibility , supporting our capital allocation priorities , which are governed by adequate return metrics .

Speaker #3: We continue to prioritize capital allocation toward supporting existing and new business through investments in working capital . As required , and CapEx projects that deliver internal rates of return above our internal hurdle .

Speaker #3: Rates . We will remain very comfortable with our dividend , which represents a yield of approximately 1.3% at our current share price and is supported by a prudent 19% payout ratio within our target range of 10 to 20% through the year .

Anthony Aulicino: We remain very comfortable with our dividend, which represents a yield of approximately 1.3% at our current share price and is supported by a prudent 19% payout ratio within our target range of 10% to 20%. Through the year, we plan to buy back at least enough shares to offset our modest equity compensation related dilution, be in the market on a consistent basis, and consider opportunistic purchases in the context of surplus free cash flow generation, implied valuation levels, and most importantly, an adherence of our 1 to 1.5 times target leverage range. We will continue to explore prudent acquisitions with a continued focus on accretive tuck-ins, providing complementary products, markets, geographies, and leadership that can benefit from our platform to realize attractive growth. At this time, I'd like to turn the call back to the operator to allow for questions.

Speaker #3: We plan to buy back at least enough shares to offset our modest equity compensation related dilution . Be in the market on a consistent basis , and consider opportunistic purchases in the context of surplus free cash flow generation .

Speaker #3: Implied valuation levels , and most importantly , an adherence of our 1 to 1 and a half times target leverage range . We will continue to explore prudent acquisitions with a continued focus on accretive tuck in providing complementary products , markets , geographies , and leadership that can benefit from our platform to realize attractive growth at this time , I'd like to turn the call back to the operator to allow for questions .

Speaker #1: Thank you . If you would like to ask a question , please press star one on your telephone keypad . If you would like to withdraw your question , simply press star one again .

Operator 2: Thank you. If you would like to ask a question, please press star one on your telephone keypad. If you would like to withdraw your question, simply press star one again. Please ensure that your phone is not on mute when called upon. Thank you. Your first question comes from John Gibson of BMO Capital Markets. Your line is open.

Operator: Thank you. If you would like to ask a question, please press star one on your telephone keypad. If you would like to withdraw your question, simply press star one again. Please ensure that your phone is not on mute when called upon. Thank you. Your first question comes from John Gibson of BMO Capital Markets. Your line is open.

Speaker #1: Please ensure that your phone is not on mute when called upon. Thank you. Your first question comes from John Gibson of BMO Capital Markets.

Speaker #1: Your line is open .

Speaker #4: Good morning all . Thanks for taking my questions here . Just maybe start on the margins . Obviously , the business is performing very well here .

John Gibson: Morning, all. Thanks for taking my questions here. Just maybe start on the margins. Obviously, the business is performing very well here and just given the positive outlook and now two quarters of strong margin performance, I guess, what would it take to additionally from here to potentially revisit that, the guidance maybe later in the year?

Speaker #4: And just given the positive outlook and now two quarters of strong margin performance , I guess what would you need it . What would it take to additionally from here to potentially revisit that guidance , maybe later in the year ?

Speaker #3: Yeah , I think it's something we talk about every quarter , John and absolutely , we like the trends . And when you look at the setup that that Ken laid out from a positioning perspective , we're very optimistic .

Anthony Aulicino: Yeah, I think it's something we talk about every quarter, John. Absolutely, we like the trends. When you look at the setup that Ken laid out from a positioning perspective, we're very optimistic. However, we put up to 17%. It was the first one in four quarters, almost five quarters. We like the way Q1 is shaping out so far. However, Q1 typically has a couple of one-timers that we should know that do affect the quarter. Number one is breakup in Canada. Breakup has started, and it's a little bit steeper and faster than we were expecting.

Speaker #3: However , we put up the 17% . It was the first 1 in 4 quarters , almost five quarters . And we like the way Q1 is , is shaping up out so far .

Speaker #3: However , Q1 typically has a couple of one timers that that we should know that that do affect the the quarter . Number one is , is breakup in Canada .

Speaker #3: So breakup has started and it's a little bit steeper and faster than we were expecting . And and it's no surprise to anybody on on the call that we and everybody has started seeing cost increases for anything petroleum related over the last week because of the the spike in WTI .

Anthony Aulicino: It's no surprise to anybody on the call that we and everybody has started seeing cost increases for anything petroleum-related over the last week because of the spike in WTI, and that's transportation-related costs, diesel, etc. These are all things that the guys have structured into agreements that we will be able to pass on, but that's not gonna happen immediately. Had it not been for those couple of things, we would have taken a more serious look at increasing that range. We're gonna stay here, obviously, for at least this quarter, and we'll revisit next quarter, depending on where we are and where we're going. Hope that helps.

Speaker #3: And that's transportation related costs . Diesel , etc. . These are all things that the guys have structured into agreements that that we will be able to pass on .

Speaker #3: But that's not going to happen immediately . Had it not been for those couple of things , we would have taken a more serious look at increasing that range .

Speaker #3: But we're going to stay here . Obviously , for at least this quarter , and we'll revisit next quarter , depending on where we are and where we're going .

Speaker #3: Hope that helps .

Speaker #4: No , that's very helpful . I appreciate it . Then last one for me , you know , in terms of market share in US production chemicals , you've obviously had some nice wins here .

John Gibson: No, that's very helpful. I appreciate it. Last one for me. You know, in terms of market share in US production chemicals, you've obviously had some nice wins here. What inning are we in terms of where this business could go? Or I guess, in other words, what is the magnitude of additional RFPs you're looking at now versus what you've recently won?

Speaker #4: What inning are we in, in terms of where this business could go? Or, I guess in other words, what is the magnitude of additional RFPs you're looking at now versus what you've recently won?

Ken Zinger: Yeah, sure. Good morning, John. If you're going by inning, like, we like to look at the businesses, each of the business divisions as being possible to get 30 to 35% market share before you kinda hit a point where you're getting enough pressure from operators because they wanna keep diversification of supply too. Last year's Kimberlite report had us at 21% of the market in the US land production chemicals. That's sort of gives you the number. 21 is where we're at, 30, about 35 is where we think we can go. As far as pace goes, yeah, we're on pretty much every RFP that comes out.

Speaker #5: Yeah , sure . Good morning John . It's if you're going by inning like we we like to look at the businesses . Each of the business divisions as being possible to get 30 to 35% market share before you kind of hit a point where you're getting enough pressure from operators because they want to keep diversification of supply to .

Speaker #5: So the last year's kimberlite report had us at 21% of the market in the US , land production chemicals . So that's sort of gives you the number 21 is where we're at 30 , 35 is where we think we can go .

Speaker #5: And as far as pace goes , yeah , we're on pretty much every RFP that comes out . But we have a real focus on taking care of the customers .

Ken Zinger: We have a real focus on taking care of the customers we already have, first and foremost, and then trying to pick up some of the new business. It'll continue to be steady growth, we hope. That's what's been the case for the last 10 years or in COVID. That's sort of been the pace we're on, and that's what we're hoping to continue both sides of the border and all business lines.

Speaker #5: We already have . First and foremost , and then trying to pick up some of the new business . So it'll continue to be steady growth .

Speaker #5: We hope that's what's been the case for the last ten years or barring Covid , that's sort of been the pace we're on and that's what we're hoping to continue .

Speaker #5: Both sides of the border in all business lines.

Speaker #4: Thanks a lot . I really appreciate the responses here . I'll turn it back

John Gibson: Thanks a lot. I really appreciate the responses here. I'll turn it back.

Speaker #1: Your next question comes from Keith Mackey with RBC . Your line is open .

Operator 2: Your next question comes from Keith Mackey with RBC. Your line is open.

Operator: Your next question comes from Keith Mackey with RBC. Your line is open.

Speaker #6: Hey , thanks and good morning . Definitely heard the commentary on on . You know , tuck in M&A in the prepared remarks .

Keith Mackey: Hey, thanks, and good morning. Definitely heard the commentary on, you know, tuck-in M&A in the prepared remarks. Done a couple of tuck-in acquisitions over the last little while. Just curious if you can speak to the opportunity set of potential targets that are out there now. Is there still a very large pool of potential candidates that would meet your hurdle returns, hurdle rates, and required returns? Just curious for how you're thinking about going about incremental tuck-in M&A from that standpoint and generally what is out there in the market.

Speaker #6: Done a couple of tuck in acquisitions over the last little while . Just curious if you can speak to the opportunity set of potential targets that are out there now .

Speaker #6: Is there still a very large pool of potential candidates that would meet your hurdle returns or hurdle rates and required returns ? Just curious for how you're thinking about going about incremental tuck in M&A from that standpoint and generally , what is what is out there in the market

Speaker #3: So I'll start , Keith . So nothing has changed . So you're right , we have the team has put up the numbers that have been recognized that have led to a lot of the great financial results that have been recognized by the markets .

Anthony Aulicino: I'll start, Keith. Nothing has changed. You're right. The team has put up the numbers that have been recognized, that have led to a lot of the great financial results that have been recognized by the markets. Yeah, our multiple is higher and our capital structure is very prudent, but that's not changing our approach at all. It's really interesting. We're not chasing M&A for growth, for sure. As we've always said, we're looking for specific opportunities with specific technologies, maybe geographies, and absolutely good people. Those deals that the team did over the last couple of years, those were really originated by the divisions, where they saw some really good people and good opportunities, and that's the way they came in.

Speaker #3: And yeah , our ultimate is higher . And our capital structure is is very prudent . But that's not changing our approach at all .

Speaker #3: It's really interesting . We're we're not chasing M&A for growth for sure . As we've always said , we're looking for specific opportunities with specific technologies .

Speaker #3: Maybe geographies and absolutely good people . Those deals that the team did over the last couple of years , those were those were really originated by the divisions where they saw some really good people and good opportunities .

Speaker #3: And that's the way they came in. We know everything that's out there that could be out there, but we're not chasing them aggressively.

Anthony Aulicino: We know everything that's out there that could be out there, but we're not chasing them aggressively. What we would say is obviously we have the ability to do things that that would be very easy to do if they came up, just given our size, capital structure, and obviously valuation. That doesn't mean we're gonna be more aggressively looking for stuff, or pay significantly higher than we otherwise would have.

Speaker #3: What we would say is, obviously we have the ability to do things that would be very easy to do if they came up.

Speaker #3: Just given our size and capital structure, and obviously valuation. But that doesn't mean we're going to be more aggressively looking for stuff or pay significantly higher than we otherwise would have.

Speaker #5: Yeah , we I'll jump in and just say that we definitely have target markets that we were looking for opportunities in . And we have some general vertical integration stuff that we're investigating as well .

Ken Zinger: Yeah, I'll jump in and just say that we definitely have target markets that we're looking for opportunities in, and we have some general vertical integration stuff that we're investigating as well, but.

Speaker #5: But you know , those things to get quality businesses that you can fit in , you want to bring into your culture is a tough , tough road .

Ken Zinger: You know, those things to get quality businesses that you can fit and you wanna bring into your culture is a tough road. We're looking at stuff in some specific areas, just haven't found the right ones yet.

Speaker #5: So we're we're looking at stuff in some specific areas , just haven't found the right ones yet .

Speaker #3: Yeah . And just to close the loop there , we're always talking about specific opportunities that may come up . Typically through via the guys that run the divisions .

Anthony Aulicino: Yeah. Just to close the loop there, we're always talking about specific opportunities that may come up typically through the guys that run the divisions. If we found like unicorns that could help us accelerate the things that we've been talking about and targeting, we would obviously act on something like that. Like the Fossil Fluids and HydroLite were great examples of that, where we saw those markets wanted to expand, and those were excellent opportunities to do so.

Speaker #3: But if if we found like unicorns , that could help us accelerate the things that we've been talking about and targeting , we would obviously act on something like that , like the the fossil fluids and hydro were great examples of that , where we saw those markets wanted to expand and those were excellent opportunities to do so

Speaker #6: Got it . Know that that that'll makes makes perfect sense , I guess maybe just broadening it out in terms of capital allocation .

Keith Mackey: Got it. No, that all makes perfect sense. I guess maybe just broadening it out in terms of capital allocation. You definitely gave some comments around how you're thinking about buybacks at these levels. Tony, maybe could you just take the opportunity here to kind of flesh out what your buyback strategy is. Is it strictly the keeping debt within the target leverage ratio? Or how much does current valuation of the stock play into how many shares you might buy back? Or is it more just an availability of capital and a leverage question?

Speaker #6: You definitely gave some comments around how you're thinking about buybacks at at these levels . Tony , maybe could you just take the opportunity here to , to kind of flesh out what you're what your buyback strategy is ?

Speaker #6: Is it strictly strictly the keeping debt within the target leverage ratio or or how much does current valuation of the stock play into how many shares you might buy ?

Speaker #6: Or is it more just an availability of capital and a leverage question ?

Speaker #3: It's really it's really a hybrid , right ? With an emphasis on the latter . So again , to reiterate , job number one is maximizing surplus free cash flow .

Anthony Aulicino: It's really a hybrid, right? With an emphasis on the latter. Again, to reiterate, job number one is maximizing surplus free cash flow, and the guys have been doing a great job at that at the divisions, and you can see the consolidated results. After that, we have our dividend that we were able to increase by 29% on a dividend per share basis, but it's only costing us an extra CAD 11 million per year. After that, it's if we find some tuck-ins, great. If not, we're just gonna keep buying back shares. However, we're aiming to be in the market every single day and be governed by staying within that 1 to 1.5 times leverage range.

Speaker #3: And the guys have been doing a great job at that at the divisions . And you can see the consolidated results after that .

Speaker #3: We have our dividend that we were able to increase by 29% on a dividend per share basis, but it's only costing us an extra $11.

Speaker #3: Sorry , $11 million per year . And and then after that it's if we find some tuck ins , great . If not , we're just going to keep buying back shares .

Speaker #3: However , we will we're we're aiming to be in the market every single day . And and be governed by staying within that 1 to 1 and a half times .

Speaker #3: Leverage range . And that allows us to be opportunistic on certain days . If we do see some softness , we will we will accelerate and increase our buying those days and and what what that means is that we're not we're not wedded to necessarily exhausting any given NCIB program like the one that that runs out on July 22nd .

Anthony Aulicino: That allows us to be opportunistic on certain days. If we do see some softness, we will accelerate and increase our buying those days. What that means is that we're not led to necessarily exhausting any given NCIB program like the one that runs out on 22 July. We're through 50% of that program, and we're gonna continue to eat away at it. Our plan is to be in the market for almost every day during the year and buy quantities that allow us to maintain that 1 to 1.5 times leverage range. In terms of valuation, you know the attributes of the company, and you see the financial results, and we're not the experts of picking a multiple.

Speaker #3: We will—we're through 50% of that program, and we're going to continue to eat away at it. But our plan is to be in the market for almost every day during the year.

Speaker #3: And by quantities that allow us to maintain that 1 to 1 and a half times . Leverage range in terms of valuation . You know , the attributes of the company and you see the financial results and we're not the experts of picking a multiple .

Speaker #3: But what we do know is when we spend that money and we compare it versus the returns elsewhere , it's the right place to to be putting the money in just repeating what we've heard from investors .

Anthony Aulicino: What we do know is when we spend that money, and we compare it versus the returns elsewhere, it's the right place to be putting the money in. Just repeating what we've heard from investors, they're looking at the company differently now. They're looking at the consistent ROCE in the low to mid-20s. They're looking at the significant CAGR in FFO per share since IPO. They're looking at the high free cash flow generation, margin expansion, market share expansion. They're looking at the company differently than they did before. That's been acknowledged by some of the indexes that we've been added to.

Speaker #3: They're looking at the company differently now. They're looking at the consistent RoCE in the low to mid-20s. They're looking at—

Speaker #3: The significant kegger in FFO per share . Since IPO . They're looking at the high free cash flow generation margin expansion , market share expansion and and they're looking at the company differently than they did before .

Speaker #3: And that's been acknowledged by some of the indexes that we've been added to

Speaker #6: Got it. Thanks very much for the comments.

Keith Mackey: Got it. Thanks very much for the comments.

Speaker #1: Again , if you have a question , it is star one on your telephone keypad . We will pause for a moment Your next question comes from Jonathan Goldman with Scotiabank .

Operator 2: Again, if you have a question, it is star one on your telephone keypad. We will pause for a moment. Your next question comes from Jonathan Goldman with Scotiabank. Your line is open.

Operator: Again, if you have a question, it is star one on your telephone keypad. We will pause for a moment. Your next question comes from Jonathan Goldman with Scotiabank. Your line is open.

Speaker #1: Your line is open .

Speaker #7: Hey good morning Ken . Tony , thanks for taking my questions . Maybe just congratulations to you and all the employees at for all the great work over the past several years .

Jonathan Goldman: Hey, good morning, Ken and Tony. Thanks for taking my questions. Maybe just congratulations to you and all the employees at CES for all the great work over the past several years. It's nice to see it showing up in the results and the share price. I guess my first question is maybe on the working capital. Another quarter of solid improvement there, it keeps trending down. I was just wondering if there anything that happened in the quarter, maybe one time, that would make those results look better than they were, or how should we think about sustainability of the working capital investment rate from Q4 on?

Speaker #7: It's nice to see it showing up in the results and the share price . I guess my my first question is maybe on the working capital .

Speaker #7: Another quarter of solid improvement there . It keeps trending down . I'm just wondering if there's anything that happened in the quarter , maybe one time that would make those results look better than they were ?

Speaker #7: Or how should we think about the sustainability of the working capital investment rate from Q4 on ?

Speaker #3: Yeah . Number one was it was a confluence of of excellent activity on all three levels , right ? DSI , DSO and DPI .

Anthony Aulicino: Yeah. Number one was it was a confluence of excellent activity on all three levels, right? DSI, DSO, and DPO. When we look at the range that we wanna be in, we're still at that 110 to 115, which we think is sustainable. That 98 was an excellent accomplishment. But as we've talked about, you should use that range, probably the lower end of that range going forward. Hopefully over the next couple of quarters, just like we're gonna revisit the margin range, maybe we'll revisit that range as well.

Speaker #3: So when when we look at the the range that that we want to be in , we're still at that 110 to 115 , which we think is sustainable .

Speaker #3: That 98 was was an excellent accomplishment . But as we've talked about , you should use the that range . Probably the lower end of that range going forward .

Speaker #3: And hopefully over the next couple of quarters , just like we're going to revisit the , the , the margin range , maybe we'll revisit that range as well .

Speaker #7: Okay . That's that's good color . And then since you brought it up Tony on the margin range , you know , you talked about Q1 and some of the puts and takes there .

Jonathan Goldman: Okay. That's good color. Since you brought it up, Tony, on the margin range, you know, you talked about Q1, some of the puts and takes there, but as we move into 2026 and 2027, you guys are growing. Is it fair to assume we can expect some degree of operating leverage as you just ramp the revenues and you kind of hold the cost base and the employee base stable as you've already invested last year?

Speaker #7: But as we move into '26 and '27, you guys are growing. Is it fair to assume we can expect some degree of operating leverage as you just ramp the revenues and you kind of hold the cost base and the employee base stable, as you've already invested last year?

Speaker #3: Yes

Anthony Aulicino: Yes.

Speaker #7: Okay. Fair enough. Thanks for taking my questions.

Jonathan Goldman: Okay. Fair enough. Thanks for taking my questions.

Speaker #5: Thanks , Jonathan .

Anthony Aulicino: Thanks, Jon.

Speaker #1: There are no further questions at this time . I'll turn the call to Ken Zinger for closing remarks .

Operator 2: There are no further questions at this time. I'll turn the call to Ken Zinger for closing remarks.

Operator: There are no further questions at this time. I'll turn the call to Ken Zinger for closing remarks.

Speaker #3: Well , thank you everyone .

Ken Zinger: Well, thank you everyone for joining us for the call today. Appreciate the time, and we look forward to speaking to you all again during the Q1 update call on 8 May 2026.

Speaker #5: For joining us for the call today . Appreciate the time and we look forward to speaking with you all again during the Q1 update call on May 8th , 2026 .

Operator 2: This concludes today's conference call. Thank you for joining. You may now disconnect.

Operator: This concludes today's conference call. Thank you for joining. You may now disconnect.

Q4 2025 CES Energy Solutions Corp Earnings Call

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