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Helix Energy Solutions (HLX)
:HLX

Helix Energy (HLX) AI Stock Analysis

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Helix Energy

(NYSE:HLX)

66Neutral
Helix Energy's overall stock score reflects its strong financial recovery, with improved profitability and robust cash flow generation. However, technical indicators suggest bearish trends, and the earnings call highlights significant challenges from North Sea operations and geopolitical uncertainties. While the valuation is moderate, the absence of a dividend yield limits its appeal to income investors.
Positive Factors
Financial Position
The company has zero net debt and is expected to take advantage of the share price weakness.
Operational Strength
Strong contract coverage and rising earnings suggest continued operational strength despite recent stock performance.
Stock Valuation
The stock is trading at 3.5x 2025 EBITDA, which is considered undervalued for a company with significant EBITDA growth from $121MM in 2021 to $303MM in 2024.
Negative Factors
Guidance Reduction
Helix underperformed the OIH by ~340 bps after reporting a strong 1Q beat but slashed 2025 EBITDA guidance by 21% mainly owing to weakness in the UK North Sea well intervention market.
Market Conditions
An increasingly punitive tax regime in the UK, recent operator consolidation and the sharp drop in oil prices led to a perfect storm in the UK North Sea and it tanked Helix's guidance.
Market Uncertainty
Recent M&A activity and softer oil prices/market uncertainty appear to have piled on to cause activity to shift to the right - leading to a $70 million reduction in revenues.

Helix Energy (HLX) vs. S&P 500 (SPY)

Helix Energy Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionHelix Energy Solutions Group, Inc., an offshore energy services company, provides specialty services to the offshore energy industry primarily in Brazil, the Gulf of Mexico, North Sea, the Asia Pacific, and West Africa regions. The company operates through three segments: Well Intervention, Robotics, and Production Facilities. It engages in the installation of flowlines, control umbilicals, and manifold assemblies and risers; trenching and burial of pipelines; installation and tie-in of riser and manifold assembly; commissioning, testing, and inspection activities; and provision of cable and umbilical lay, and connection services. The company also provides well intervention, intervention engineering, and production enhancement services; inspection, repair, and maintenance of production structures, trees, jumpers, risers, pipelines, and subsea equipment; and related support services. In addition, it offers reclamation and remediation services; well plug and abandonment services; pipeline abandonment services; and site inspections. Additionally, the company offers oil and natural gas processing facilities and services; and fast response system, as well as site clearance and subsea support services. It serves independent oil and gas producers and suppliers, pipeline transmission companies, renewable energy companies, and offshore engineering and construction firms. The company was formerly known as Cal Dive International, Inc. and changed its name to Helix Energy Solutions Group, Inc. in March 2006. Helix Energy Solutions Group, Inc. was incorporated in 1979 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas.
How the Company Makes MoneyHelix Energy makes money through its diverse range of services in the offshore energy sector. The company's primary revenue streams include well intervention services, which involve enhancing production and extending the life of existing wells, and robotics services, utilizing remotely operated vehicles for inspection, maintenance, and construction support. Additionally, Helix Energy generates income from its production facilities segment, which involves owning and operating offshore assets that support oil and gas production. Significant partnerships with major oil and gas companies also contribute to its revenue, as Helix's services are crucial for maintaining operational efficiency and safety in offshore environments.

Helix Energy Financial Statement Overview

Summary
Helix Energy is demonstrating a robust financial recovery with improved profitability, effective cost management, and strong cash flow generation. The company's balance sheet remains stable with manageable leverage, although an increase in liabilities warrants attention. Overall, Helix Energy is well-positioned for continued growth and financial stability within the Oil & Gas Equipment & Services industry.
Income Statement
78
Positive
Helix Energy's income statement shows a strong recovery trajectory with increasing revenue and profitability. The gross profit margin has improved significantly, reaching approximately 16.98% in TTM, up from 5.80% in 2022, indicating better cost management. Net profit margin improved markedly from negative figures in previous years to 6.34% in TTM, showcasing substantial profitability enhancement. The EBIT and EBITDA margins have also shown a positive trend, reflecting operational efficiency. Revenue growth has been robust, with a 54.33% increase from 2022 to 2023, and continued improvement into 2024 and 2025. Overall, the income statement reflects a positive growth trajectory and improved profitability.
Balance Sheet
70
Positive
The balance sheet of Helix Energy demonstrates a stable financial position with a solid equity base. The debt-to-equity ratio remains reasonable at approximately 0.42 in TTM, indicating manageable leverage levels. Although stockholders' equity has remained relatively stable, the equity ratio of about 58.64% in TTM reflects a solid capital structure. Return on equity (ROE) has improved significantly, from negative in prior years to around 5.50% in TTM, aligning with the company's profit recovery. However, the total liabilities have shown a gradual increase, which could be a potential risk if not managed carefully.
Cash Flow
82
Very Positive
Helix Energy's cash flow statements highlight strong cash generation capabilities. The operating cash flow to net income ratio stands at approximately 1.62 in TTM, indicating efficient conversion of income into cash. The free cash flow to net income ratio of about 1.34 suggests solid free cash flow generation, supporting financial flexibility. Notably, the free cash flow growth rate from 2023 to 2024 was 22.48%, reflecting successful cash management. The company has maintained positive free cash flow, which supports strategic investments and debt servicing. Overall, the cash flow position is strong, underpinning financial stability.
Breakdown
Dec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021Dec 2020
Income StatementTotal Revenue
1.36B1.29B873.10M674.73M733.55M
Gross Profit
219.56M200.36M50.62M15.39M79.91M
EBIT
127.44M105.93M-26.14M-48.06M-107.23M
EBITDA
253.17M192.99M87.68M94.36M164.45M
Net Income Common Stockholders
55.64M-10.84M-87.78M-61.68M22.17M
Balance SheetCash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments
368.03M332.19M186.60M253.51M291.32M
Total Assets
2.60B2.56B2.39B2.33B2.50B
Total Debt
661.12M540.57M469.68M410.95M502.17M
Net Debt
293.09M208.38M283.07M157.43M210.85M
Total Liabilities
1.08B1.06B872.63M678.56M757.78M
Stockholders Equity
1.52B1.50B1.52B1.65B1.74B
Cash FlowFree Cash Flow
162.72M132.87M17.60M131.79M78.56M
Operating Cash Flow
186.03M152.46M51.11M140.12M98.80M
Investing Cash Flow
-22.84M-18.66M-138.29M-8.27M-19.28M
Financing Cash Flow
-125.31M25.11M-44.84M-96.00M-52.58M

Helix Energy Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Neutral
Last Price6.50
Price Trends
50DMA
7.47
Negative
100DMA
8.11
Negative
200DMA
9.31
Negative
Market Momentum
MACD
-0.32
Negative
RSI
44.38
Neutral
STOCH
76.80
Neutral
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For HLX, the sentiment is Neutral. The current price of 6.5 is above the 20-day moving average (MA) of 6.43, below the 50-day MA of 7.47, and below the 200-day MA of 9.31, indicating a neutral trend. The MACD of -0.32 indicates Negative momentum. The RSI at 44.38 is Neutral, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 76.80 is Neutral, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Neutral sentiment for HLX.

Helix Energy Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (56)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
RERES
73
Outperform
$1.05B13.757.06%3.31%-9.78%-49.45%
OIOII
69
Neutral
$1.87B10.3926.17%10.04%68.14%
68
Neutral
$887.36M13.154.91%10.48%
HLHLX
66
Neutral
$984.95M11.845.64%0.34%
MRMRC
65
Neutral
$1.04B40.8110.01%-9.17%-71.36%
63
Neutral
$987.42M27.723.91%3.11%-8.41%-58.49%
56
Neutral
$6.93B3.42-4.86%5.94%-0.08%-48.18%
* Energy Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
HLX
Helix Energy
6.50
-4.87
-42.83%
MRC
MRC Global
12.21
0.55
4.72%
OII
Oceaneering International
18.57
-4.82
-20.61%
RES
RPC
4.76
-1.87
-28.21%
XPRO
Expro Group Holdings
7.69
-11.97
-60.89%
WTTR
Select Energy Services
8.24
-0.74
-8.24%

Helix Energy Earnings Call Summary

Earnings Call Date:Apr 23, 2025
(Q1-2025)
|
% Change Since: -1.66%|
Next Earnings Date:Jul 23, 2025
Earnings Call Sentiment Neutral
The earnings call presented a mix of positive achievements and significant challenges. While the company showcased strong first-quarter results, robust cash positions, and new contracts, the negative impact from the North Sea operations and geopolitical uncertainties have led to a downgrade in revenue and EBITDA guidance. Overall, the sentiment is cautious, reflecting both optimism in certain areas and significant concerns in others.
Q1-2025 Updates
Positive Updates
Strong First-Quarter Results
Helix Energy Solutions reported revenues of $278 million, gross profit of $28 million, net income of $3 million, and adjusted EBITDA of $52 million. The company had positive operating cash flow of $16 million and free cash flow of $12 million.
Robust Cash Position
The company ended the quarter with cash and cash equivalents of $370 million and liquidity of $405 million, with negative net debt of $59 million.
New Contracts and Renewals
Helix commenced operations with Q7000 in Brazil on a 400-day contract with Shell and Siem Helix 2 started a new three-year contract with Petrobras at higher rates. The company also signed a large trenching contract for the Hornsea Free Wind Farm in the UK for over 300 days in 2026.
Positive Outlook for Renewables
The renewables and trenching outlook is robust with numerous contracted works for 2025, 2026, and 2027, with strong tender activity as far out as 2032.
Negative Updates
Significant Impact from North Sea Operations
The UK North Sea well intervention market is significantly weaker due to regulatory environment, low oil prices, and operator M&A, leading to the stacking of the Seawell vessel. This has resulted in a substantial negative impact on EBITDA guidance for 2025.
Geopolitical and Market Uncertainty
The company is facing challenges due to geopolitical developments, including tariff hikes and OPEC production increases, resulting in lower oil prices and increased market risks.
Revenue and EBITDA Guidance Downgrade
Revenue guidance has been adjusted to approximately $1.3 billion with a decrease due to the stacking of the Seawell. EBITDA guidance has been revised to approximately $275 million, plus or minus 10%, largely due to the North Sea issues.
Company Guidance
During the Q1 2025 earnings call, Helix Energy Solutions Group provided guidance indicating a challenging market environment due to external factors such as tariff hikes and increased oil production by OPEC, leading to volatile oil prices. The company reported Q1 revenues of $278 million, a gross profit of $28 million, and a net income of $3 million, with adjusted EBITDA at $52 million. Despite these challenges, Helix maintains a strong liquidity position with $370 million in cash and cash equivalents and $405 million in liquidity. The company's backlog stands at approximately $1.4 billion, and they forecast generating between $100 million and $160 million in free cash flow for 2025. However, they have adjusted their annual revenue guidance to a range of $1.25 billion to $1.41 billion and an EBITDA estimate of approximately $275 million, reflecting the decision to stack the Seawell vessel due to reduced activity in the North Sea. The company is focusing on cost reduction strategies while maintaining its robust balance sheet to navigate the current market uncertainties.

Helix Energy Corporate Events

Financial Disclosures
Helix Energy Reports Q1 2025 Financial Results
Negative
Apr 24, 2025

On April 23, 2025, Helix Energy Solutions Group reported its financial results for the first quarter of 2025, showing a net income of $3.1 million, a decrease from the previous quarter’s $20.1 million. The company faced challenges from a seasonal slowdown in the North Sea and Gulf of America, as well as market disruptions from OPEC+ production increases and U.S. tariffs. Despite these challenges, Helix maintained a strong balance sheet and expects to generate meaningful free cash flow in 2025.

Spark’s Take on HLX Stock

According to Spark, TipRanks’ AI Analyst, HLX is a Outperform.

Helix Energy’s stock score reflects its strong financial recovery and positive guidance for 2025. Key strengths include improved profitability and strong contract coverage. However, technical indicators suggest bearish trends, and macroeconomic risks pose potential challenges. The valuation is moderate, with no immediate appeal from dividends.

To see Spark’s full report on HLX stock, click here.

Business Operations and StrategyFinancial Disclosures
Helix Energy Reports Strong 2024 Financial Turnaround
Positive
Feb 25, 2025

Helix Energy Solutions Group reported its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year 2024, showing a net income of $20.1 million for the fourth quarter and $55.6 million for the full year, marking a turnaround from a net loss in 2023. The company achieved its highest EBITDA since 2014 and reported strong free cash flow, despite challenges in its Shallow Water Abandonment segment. Helix completed the restructuring of its balance sheet by retiring convertible notes, ending the year with significant cash levels and negative net debt. The company also secured new contracts for its well intervention fleet, ensuring strong contract coverage as it enters 2025.

Glossary
OutperformA stock rated as "Outperform" is expected to perform better than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests that the stock is likely to deliver higher returns compared to the average returns of other stocks in the same sector or market index. Investors might consider this stock a good buying opportunity.
NeutralA stock rated as "Neutral" is expected to perform in line with the overall market or a specific benchmark. This rating indicates that the stock is neither particularly attractive nor unattractive for investment. Investors may consider holding onto the stock, as it is not expected to either significantly outperform or underperform the market.
UnderperformA stock rated as "Underperform" is expected to perform worse than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests that the stock may deliver lower returns compared to the average returns of other stocks in the same sector or market index. Investors might consider selling the stock or avoiding it as an investment.

Disclaimer

This AI Analyst Stock Report is automatically generated by our AI systems using advanced algorithms and publicly available financial, technical, and market data. While the information provided aims to be accurate and insightful, it is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Any content created by an AI (Artificial Intelligence) system may contain inaccuracies and/or contain errors. Investing in stocks carries inherent risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results. This report does not account for your personal financial circumstances, objectives, or risk tolerance. Always conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The analysis and recommendations provided are based on historical and current data and may not fully reflect future market conditions or unexpected developments. Neither the creators of this report nor its affiliated entities guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. Use this report at your own discretion and risk.