Suncoke Energy ((SXC)) has held its Q1 earnings call. Read on for the main highlights of the call.
SunCoke Energy’s recent earnings call reflected a cautiously optimistic sentiment, highlighting strong liquidity and growth in its logistics segment. Despite facing challenging market conditions that led to a decline in adjusted EBITDA and net income, the company maintained its dividend and reaffirmed its full-year guidance. SunCoke is also taking a prudent approach to capital expenditures in light of economic uncertainties.
Strong Liquidity Position
SunCoke Energy ended the first quarter with a robust liquidity position of $543.7 million. This includes a cash balance of $193.7 million and a fully undrawn revolver of $350 million, underscoring the company’s solid financial footing.
Logistics Business Performance
The logistics segment of SunCoke Energy showed promising growth, generating $13.7 million in adjusted EBITDA in Q1 2025, up from $13 million in Q1 2024. This increase was primarily driven by higher transloading volumes at the Convent Marine Terminal (CMT).
Dividend Announcement
In a move to reward shareholders, SunCoke Energy announced a dividend of $0.12 per share, payable on June 2, 2025. This decision reflects the company’s confidence in its financial health and future prospects.
Reaffirmed Full Year Guidance
SunCoke Energy reaffirmed its full-year consolidated adjusted EBITDA guidance range of $210 million to $225 million. This demonstrates the company’s commitment to achieving its financial targets despite current market challenges.
Decreased Adjusted EBITDA
The company reported a decrease in consolidated adjusted EBITDA for Q1 2025, which was $59.8 million compared to $67.9 million in the prior year. This decline was mainly due to lower economics on the Granite City contract extension and reduced spot blast coke sales volumes.
Net Income Decline
SunCoke’s net income attributable to shareholders was $0.20 per share in Q1 2025, a decrease of $0.03 from the previous year. This reflects the impact of challenging market conditions on the company’s profitability.
Challenging Spot Coke Market
The spot blast coke pricing environment remains highly challenging, affecting the Domestic Coke business with lower sales volumes. This is a significant factor contributing to the company’s decreased earnings.
Potential CapEx Reduction
In response to economic uncertainties, SunCoke Energy is considering reducing its capital expenditures from the planned $65 million for the year. The company may defer some non-essential projects to maintain financial flexibility.
Forward-Looking Guidance
Despite the challenges faced in the first quarter, SunCoke Energy remains optimistic about the future. The company reaffirmed its full-year consolidated adjusted EBITDA guidance range of $210 million to $225 million. With a strong liquidity position and strategic capital allocation, SunCoke is well-positioned to explore potential growth opportunities while maintaining financial discipline.
In summary, SunCoke Energy’s earnings call highlighted a balance of caution and optimism. The company is navigating challenging market conditions with a strong liquidity position and strategic focus on its logistics segment. While facing a decline in adjusted EBITDA and net income, SunCoke remains committed to its financial guidance and shareholder returns, reflecting resilience and adaptability in a volatile market.