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STEP Energy Services (TSE:STEP)
TSX:STEP

STEP Energy Services (STEP) AI Stock Analysis

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STEP Energy Services

(TSX:STEP)

Rating:64Neutral
Price Target:
C$4.00
▲(5.26%Upside)
STEP Energy Services shows a recovering financial performance with improved profitability and cash flow management, but still faces challenges with thin margins and valuation issues. The technical analysis indicates a neutral outlook, while the recent earnings call provides a cautiously optimistic view with some operational risks. Corporate events suggest strategic adjustments, but recent financial results highlight ongoing challenges. These combined factors lead to a moderate overall stock score.
Positive Factors
Debt Reduction
Large client receipts helped reduce net debt to $52.7 million, showcasing effective financial management.
Financial Management
The company has improved its balance sheet significantly, repaying over $200 million of debt since 2019.
Negative Factors
Market Dynamics
The U.S. market faces oversupply issues, leading to caution among analysts.
Pricing Pressure
Increased fleet migration into the WCSB has created pricing pressure, which could impact future revenues.

STEP Energy Services (STEP) vs. iShares MSCI Canada ETF (EWC)

STEP Energy Services Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionSTEP Energy Services is a leading oilfield service company headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The company primarily operates in the energy sector, offering specialized services such as coiled tubing, hydraulic fracturing, and other well intervention solutions to oil and gas producers. STEP is renowned for its technical expertise, operational excellence, and commitment to safety and environmental stewardship.
How the Company Makes MoneySTEP Energy Services generates revenue through the provision of specialized well intervention and stimulation services to the oil and gas industry. The company's primary revenue streams include fees for hydraulic fracturing, coiled tubing, and ancillary services that improve the efficiency and productivity of oil and gas wells. These services are typically contracted by exploration and production companies who require enhanced recovery techniques to optimize their operations. STEP's earnings are influenced by the level of drilling and completion activity in the energy sector, market demand for oil and gas, and the company's ability to maintain strong relationships and contracts with key industry players.

STEP Energy Services Earnings Call Summary

Earnings Call Date:May 14, 2025
(Q1-2025)
|
% Change Since: -5.94%|
Next Earnings Date:Aug 06, 2025
Earnings Call Sentiment Neutral
The earnings call presented a mix of positive and negative aspects. There was a significant revenue increase, improved EBITDA, and innovative advancements in natural gas operations, contributing to a positive outlook. However, challenges such as the termination of U.S. operations, increased net debt, and geopolitical tensions pose risks to future performance.
Q1-2025 Updates
Positive Updates
Significant Revenue Increase
STEP's Q1 consolidated revenues increased to CAD308 million from the prior quarter revenue of CAD148 million, marking a significant improvement as client capital budgets reset.
Improved Adjusted EBITDA
Adjusted EBITDA for the first quarter was CAD59 million or a 19% margin, compared with CAD8 million or a 5% margin in the prior quarter.
Net Income Recovery
Net income for Q1 was CAD24 million or CAD0.33 per diluted share, compared to a loss of CAD45 million or negative CAD0.62 per diluted share in the prior quarter.
Strong Operational Achievements
STEP's North American operations posted excellent results, running 22 units throughout the quarter with significant milestones in coiled-tubing and fracturing operations.
Innovation in Natural Gas Operations
STEP introduced Canada's first 100% natural gas reciprocating engine, the NGx, achieving diesel displacement rates of up to 90% during initial field trials.
Negative Updates
Termination of U.S. Fracturing Division
STEP terminated its U.S. fracturing division, resulting in an internal leadership reorganization and a decision to aggregate into one operating segment.
Free Cash Flow Decline
Free cash flow for the quarter was CAD32 million, compared to CAD53 million in Q1 of last year, indicating a decline year-over-year.
Increased Net Debt
STEP ended the quarter with net debt of CAD85 million, up from approximately CAD53 million in the prior quarter, due to a CAD68.2 million increase in working capital.
Potential Impact of Geopolitical Tensions
Geopolitical tensions and retaliatory tariffs by the Canadian government are expected to place additional pressure on operating costs and margins.
Company Guidance
During the Q1 2025 conference call, STEP Energy Services provided detailed guidance on their financial and operational performance. The company reported consolidated revenues of CAD308 million for the quarter, an increase from CAD148 million in the prior quarter, with CAD14 million attributed to the terminated U.S. operations. Adjusted EBITDA was CAD59 million, representing a 19% margin, compared to CAD8 million or a 5% margin in the previous quarter. STEP achieved a net income of CAD24 million or CAD0.33 per diluted share, recovering from a loss of CAD45 million in the prior quarter. Free cash flow improved to CAD32 million, while net debt increased to CAD85 million due to working capital changes. The company continued to focus on key operational achievements, such as running 22 units in North American operations and deploying advanced technologies like the NGx pump, which showed promising results in reducing diesel usage. The outlook for 2025 considers potential impacts from geopolitical tensions, commodity price fluctuations, and Canadian government tariffs, with expectations for stable activity levels in upcoming quarters.

STEP Energy Services Financial Statement Overview

Summary
STEP Energy Services has demonstrated a commendable recovery from previous financial difficulties. The income statement shows improved profitability, though still modest net margins. The balance sheet reflects enhanced financial stability with reduced leverage and stronger equity. Cash flow metrics are robust, showcasing effective cash management and liquidity. While there are positive trends across all financial statements, caution is advised due to historically thin margins and low returns on equity.
Income Statement
72
Positive
STEP Energy Services has shown a significant recovery in its income statement metrics over recent years. The gross profit margin improved from negative figures in 2020 to approximately 11.5% in 2024, indicating better cost management. The net profit margin increased from a substantial loss in 2020 to a marginal profit in 2024, reflecting improved profitability. Revenue growth rate from 2019 to 2024 showed fluctuations, with a notable dip in 2023 but a recovery in 2024. Despite this, the EBIT and EBITDA margins have consistently improved, suggesting enhanced operational efficiency. Overall, the income statement shows positive trends but remains moderate due to thin net margins.
Balance Sheet
68
Positive
The balance sheet of STEP Energy Services shows a gradual improvement in financial stability. The debt-to-equity ratio has decreased from 0.79 in 2019 to 0.23 in 2024, indicating reduced financial leverage and improved risk profile. The return on equity remains low due to thin net income, though it marks a recovery from previous losses. The equity ratio improved from 47.1% in 2019 to 63.8% in 2024, reflecting a stronger equity position. While the company has made strides in strengthening its balance sheet, the low ROE and past high leverage suggest caution.
Cash Flow
75
Positive
STEP Energy Services exhibits strong cash flow management. The operating cash flow to net income ratio is robust, indicating effective conversion of profits into cash. Free cash flow has shown positive growth over the years, despite some fluctuations. The positive free cash flow to net income ratio demonstrates the company's ability to generate cash beyond its net earnings. Additionally, the reduction in capital expenditure supports improved free cash flow, enhancing financial flexibility. Overall, the cash flow metrics indicate strong liquidity and cash management capabilities.
Breakdown
Dec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021Dec 2020
Income StatementTotal Revenue
954.97M945.72M989.02M536.31M368.94M
Gross Profit
110.19M116.14M147.59M17.76M-33.41M
EBIT
66.47M77.84M90.26M-19.97M-63.40M
EBITDA
129.35M163.31M221.38M54.55M-41.74M
Net Income Common Stockholders
1.76M50.42M94.78M-28.13M-119.36M
Balance SheetCash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments
4.36M1.78M2.79M3.70M1.27M
Total Assets
580.63M606.52M682.53M483.85M479.86M
Total Debt
84.47M113.63M162.98M205.33M220.35M
Net Debt
80.11M111.85M160.19M201.63M219.08M
Total Liabilities
210.11M250.97M376.50M306.41M275.28M
Stockholders Equity
370.53M355.55M306.03M177.44M204.58M
Cash FlowFree Cash Flow
51.72M66.43M39.62M21.60M28.98M
Operating Cash Flow
146.06M171.61M122.60M58.85M46.80M
Investing Cash Flow
-92.57M-108.98M-66.44M-30.71M-16.55M
Financing Cash Flow
-50.98M-63.90M-57.77M-25.67M-36.50M

STEP Energy Services Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Negative
Last Price3.80
Price Trends
50DMA
3.88
Negative
100DMA
4.13
Negative
200DMA
4.23
Negative
Market Momentum
MACD
-0.02
Positive
RSI
41.00
Neutral
STOCH
14.55
Positive
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For TSE:STEP, the sentiment is Negative. The current price of 3.8 is below the 20-day moving average (MA) of 3.93, below the 50-day MA of 3.88, and below the 200-day MA of 4.23, indicating a bearish trend. The MACD of -0.02 indicates Positive momentum. The RSI at 41.00 is Neutral, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 14.55 is Positive, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Negative sentiment for TSE:STEP.

STEP Energy Services Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (58)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
TSTOT
80
Outperform
C$411.81M6.6011.38%3.64%11.02%102.23%
TSTCW
75
Outperform
$867.22M8.9819.44%4.22%2.15%-5.97%
74
Outperform
C$166.20M5.3216.11%18.29%-94.32%
TSCFW
65
Neutral
C$294.60M16.203.00%-5.50%-88.55%
64
Neutral
C$275.99M151.92-3.90%-5.98%-121.37%
TSHWO
63
Neutral
$10.28M0.41-3.83%370.28%-86.21%
58
Neutral
$7.56B3.50-4.45%10.15%0.79%-49.51%
* Energy Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
TSE:STEP
STEP Energy Services
3.85
-0.15
-3.75%
TSE:HWO
High Arctic Energy Services
0.78
-2.01
-72.05%
TSE:TCW
Trican Well Service
4.65
0.29
6.72%
TSE:TOT
Total Energy Services
10.99
1.94
21.44%
TSE:SHLE
Source Energy Services Ltd
11.90
2.51
26.73%
TSE:CFW
Calfrac Well Services
3.50
-0.45
-11.39%

STEP Energy Services Corporate Events

Executive/Board ChangesShareholder Meetings
STEP Energy Services Announces Board Leadership Changes Following AGM
Positive
Jun 5, 2025

STEP Energy Services announced the results of its 2025 annual general meeting, where seven directors were elected with overwhelming support. The board appointed Jeremy Gackle as chair and Edward LaFehr as lead director, with committee positions also confirmed. This leadership update is poised to strengthen STEP’s governance as it continues to provide innovative and reliable services to its clients in the energy sector.

The most recent analyst rating on (TSE:STEP) stock is a Hold with a C$5.50 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on STEP Energy Services stock, see the TSE:STEP Stock Forecast page.

Stock BuybackFinancial Disclosures
STEP Energy Services Reports Q1 2025 Financial Results
Negative
May 14, 2025

STEP Energy Services Ltd. reported a decrease in consolidated revenue for Q1 2025, down 4% from the same period in 2024, while net income also fell to $24.2 million from $41.4 million. Despite these declines, the company made progress on its shareholder return strategy by repurchasing shares under its Normal Course Issuer Bid, indicating a commitment to enhancing shareholder value.

The most recent analyst rating on (TSE:STEP) stock is a Hold with a C$5.50 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on STEP Energy Services stock, see the TSE:STEP Stock Forecast page.

Financial Disclosures
STEP Energy Services to Release Q1 2025 Results and Host Conference Call
Neutral
May 6, 2025

STEP Energy Services Ltd. announced that it will release its first quarter 2025 financial results on May 14, 2025, after market close, followed by a conference call on May 15, 2025, to discuss the results. This announcement is part of STEP’s ongoing efforts to maintain transparency and engage with stakeholders, reflecting its commitment to providing reliable and cost-effective solutions in the energy services industry.

Financial Disclosures
STEP Energy Services to Announce Q1 2025 Results and Host Conference Call
Neutral
Apr 16, 2025

STEP Energy Services Ltd. announced it will release its first quarter 2025 financial results on May 14, 2025, after market close, followed by a conference call on May 15, 2025, to discuss the results. This announcement is part of STEP’s ongoing efforts to maintain transparency with stakeholders and provide insights into its financial performance, which could impact its market positioning and stakeholder confidence.

Glossary
BuyA stock rated as a "Buy" is expected to perform better than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock is likely to deliver higher returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
HoldA stock rated as a "Hold" is expected to perform in line with the overall market or a specific benchmark. This rating indicates that the stock is neither particularly compelling nor unfavorable for investment. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
SellA stock rated as a "Sell" is expected to perform worse than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock may deliver lower returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.

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.