Phillips 66’s 2027 Strategic Priorities Look Achievable

Image Source: Phillips 66

By Brian Nelson, CFA

Phillips 66 (PSX) recently reported second quarter results that came in better than expected on both the top and bottom lines. The company reported adjusted earnings of $973 million or $2.38 per share, above the consensus forecast. Phillips 66 operated at 98% capacity utilization in Refining with 86% clean product yield. As for dealings, the firm completed its acquisition of EPIC NGL (Coastal Bend) and sold a 65% interest in its Germany and Austria retail marketing business. Excluding working capital, it generated $1.9 billion in net operating cash flow as it returned $906 million to shareholders through dividends and buybacks.

Here’s what management had to say about the results:

Phillips 66 delivered strong financial and operating results across our integrated value chain, reflecting the continued execution of our strategy. During the quarter, Refining ran at the highest utilization since 2018, achieved its lowest cost per barrel since 2021, strong market capture and record year-to-date clean product yield. Our results were made possible through disciplined execution and investment.

We also continued our strong growth trajectory in Midstream, which generated approximately $1 billion of adjusted EBITDA following the acquisition of Coastal Bend. The Dos Picos II gas processing plant in the Midland Basin recently came online ahead of schedule and on budget. These assets further our stable earnings growth, enhance returns and increase shareholder value as we progress our wellhead-to-market strategy. Looking ahead, we are focused on organic Midstream growth as we advance toward our 2027 targets.

At the end of the quarter, Phillips 66 had $1.1 billion of cash and cash equivalents on the books and $3.7 billion of committed capacity available under credit facilities. The company ended the quarter with $20.9 billion in total debt, and a net debt-to-capital ratio of 41%. On the call, management noted that it was on track to achieve the $4.5 billion annual EBITDA target in Midstream by 2027. Also by that year, Phillips 66 expects to see its adjusted cost per barrel number below $5.50 per barrel on an annual basis. We like Phillips 66’s 2027 strategic priorities, especially in that it targets a “secure, competitive & growing dividend.” Shares yield 3.9% at the time of this writing. 

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