KBR’s first quarter saw a positive market reaction, with management attributing the performance to strong execution across key government and energy projects. CEO Stuart Bradie highlighted the solid ramp-up of the HomeSafe contract, effective integration of LinQuest, and milestone achievements in the Plaquemines LNG project as significant contributors. The company’s ability to improve customer satisfaction in government contracts and deliver on complex energy infrastructure projects were central themes, while continued progress in international markets added further momentum.
Is now the time to buy KBR? Find out in our full research report (it’s free).
KBR (KBR) Q1 CY2025 Highlights:
- Revenue: $2.06 billion vs analyst estimates of $2.08 billion (13% year-on-year growth, 1.4% miss)
- Adjusted EPS: $0.98 vs analyst estimates of $0.86 (13.7% beat)
- Adjusted EBITDA: $243 million vs analyst estimates of $227.7 million (11.8% margin, 6.7% beat)
- The company reconfirmed its revenue guidance for the full year of $8.9 billion at the midpoint
- Management reiterated its full-year Adjusted EPS guidance of $3.83 at the midpoint
- EBITDA guidance for the full year is $970 million at the midpoint, in line with analyst expectations
- Operating Margin: 9.5%, in line with the same quarter last year
- Backlog: $17.29 billion at quarter end, in line with the same quarter last year
- Market Capitalization: $6.24 billion
While we enjoy listening to the management's commentary, our favorite part of earnings calls are the analyst questions.
Those are unscripted and can often highlight topics that management teams would rather avoid or topics where the answer is complicated.
Here is what has caught our attention.
Our Top 5 Analyst Questions KBR’s Q1 Earnings Call
- Andy Kaplowitz (Citigroup) asked about STS backlog and energy transition delays. CEO Stuart Bradie explained the company’s agility in balancing energy security and transition projects, with confidence in international demand.
- Steven Fisher (UBS) questioned the status of mission technology awards under protest. Bradie clarified that the $2 billion in protested awards are expected to resolve later this year, with the pipeline remaining strong.
- Michael Dudas (Vertical Research) inquired about LNG project capacity and Brown & Root’s performance. Bradie emphasized commercial discipline in LNG contracts and highlighted Brown & Root’s recovery and expansion into energy and chemicals operations.
- Samantha Stiroh (BofA) sought details on international MTS growth and M&A strategy. Bradie discussed long-term contracts in the U.K. and Australia and a focus on bolt-on acquisitions in intelligence, digitalization, and emerging tech.
- Jerry Revich (Goldman Sachs) requested updates on HomeSafe customer satisfaction and LNG project timelines. Bradie cited customer satisfaction near 90%, improved tech adoption, and a healthy outlook for upcoming LNG phases.
Catalysts in Upcoming Quarters
In the coming quarters, the StockStory team will track (1) the pace of HomeSafe contract ramp-up and customer satisfaction metrics, (2) the resolution and conversion of government contract awards under protest in the mission technology segment, and (3) progress on major energy and sustainability projects, including LNG and ammonia initiatives. Execution in international markets and the impact of emerging technologies will also be important indicators.
KBR currently trades at $49.03, down from $51.57 just before the earnings. At this price, is it a buy or sell? Find out in our full research report (it’s free).
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