
24 Aug 2023
First Take: Hunting - Strong interims and robust outlook
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First Take: Hunting - Strong interims and robust outlook
Hunting PLC (HTG:LON) | 328 -8.2 (-0.8%) | Mkt Cap: 538.6m
- Published:
24 Aug 2023 -
Author:
Alex Smith -
Pages:
4 -
Hunting’s interim results are largely in line with the recent trading update and demonstrate a strong H1 which was ahead of original expectations at the start of the year. The outlook for 2023 continues to be positive, with 2024 revenue visibility also improving due to the orders secured during the period. We highlight the upcoming CMD on September 13th where we look forward to updates on the medium-term strategy to diversify the business, to establish greater resilience to cyclicality of the Oil and Gas industry, with a focus on long term growth across the portfolio.
Strong interims in line with recent trading statement
H123 revenues of $478m, up 42% y-o-y, with market activity steadily improving through the period, driven by strength across most international markets. Additionally, H1 adj. EBITDA was $48.7m, at a 10% margin, in line with our expectations and company guidance. Underlying EPS was broadly in line with expectations at 9.6c/share.
Strong performance across the group, driven by international markets with large OCTG orders, and Titan remains resilient.
The company finished the period with net debt of $51.7m, which reflects the investment in inventory as previously guided, due to the new orders secured across the Group. This is expected to unwind through the year and the company is well positioned to deliver strong cash generation in H2.
Interim dividend declared of 5.0c/share, in line with dividend growth ambitions (H1 2022 - 4.5c/share)
FY23 and FY24 earnings outlook robust
The order book continues to improve following further order wins across the group and now stands at c.$530m.
The company guides to a similar H2 performance, for EBITDA in line with previous FY23 guidance of $96-100m, and FY24 EBITDA guidance of $125-135m.
Focus on Hunting 2030 strategy at CMD
Hunting will provide more detail on its medium-term strategy at its CMD on 13th September. The company has highlighted this can be delivered through organic and inorganic growth, with a 15% EBITDA margin target and 10% dividend growth.