Atco Ltd (ACLLF) Q4 2024 Earnings Call Highlights: Strong Earnings Growth and Strategic Expansions

In This Article:

  • Adjusted Earnings: $481 million, an increase of $49 million and over 11% higher than the previous year.

  • Canadian Utilities ROE: Increased from 8.5% in 2023 to 9.28% in 2024.

  • Structures & Logistics Adjusted Earnings: $14 million higher compared to the prior year.

  • Neltume Ports Adjusted Earnings: $2 million higher compared to the prior year.

  • Cash Flow from Operating Activities: $280 million in 2024, up over 50% from the prior year.

  • ATCO Structures Adjusted Earnings: $108 million, marking the tenth consecutive quarter of year-over-year growth.

  • Global Space Rentals Fleet Size: Increased by 53% to over 25,000 units.

  • Average Rental Rate Growth: Over 38% increase.

  • New Operating Locations: Five new locations established across Canada and the US.

  • NRB Modular Solutions Acquisition: Integrated into Canadian modular operations, enhancing manufacturing capabilities.

Release Date: February 27, 2025

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.

Positive Points

  • Atco Ltd (ACLLF) achieved adjusted earnings of $481 million in 2024, marking an 11% increase from the previous year.

  • The company reported a significant increase in cash flow from operating activities, up over 50% from the prior year, driven by efficiencies and strategic reporting changes.

  • ATCO Structures delivered strong growth with adjusted earnings of $108 million, marking ten consecutive quarters of year-over-year growth.

  • The acquisition of NRB Modular Solutions has expanded ATCO Structures' capabilities and market reach in Canada.

  • Neltume Ports continues to be a stable source of earnings and dividends, with plans for growth through capital deployment and new investments.

Negative Points

  • The allowable ROE for Alberta utilities will decrease from 9.28% in 2024 to 8.97% in 2025, potentially moderating growth.

  • The efficiency carryover mechanism that contributed to growth in 2023 and 2024 will end, impacting future growth prospects.

  • ATCO Frontec faced challenges with negative earnings, partly due to inflationary pressures affecting margins.

  • The market is undervaluing ATCO Structures, trading at a significant discount compared to North American peers.

  • Uncertainty around tariffs could impact decision-making and contract security in certain markets, although the direct impact on ATCO is muted.

Q & A Highlights

Q: Can you provide more details on the residential housing opportunity and its potential growth? A: Adam Beattie, President of ATCO Structures, explained that Triple M is a significant modular single-family housing provider in Western Canada. The opportunity expands with NRB, which has delivered multifamily projects across Canada. While it's not the majority of their business, it's a significant portion of their sales activity. They see potential for further opportunities in Canada and other countries.