Precision Drilling (PDS) Acquires CWC, Fortifies Portfolio
Calgary-based rig services provider Precision Drilling Corporation PDS recently agreed to acquire fellow Canadian firm CWC Energy Services Corp. for C$141 million (US$103.2 million), including shares, cash and the assumption of debt. The strategic transaction — expected to close in the fourth quarter — will boost Precision Drilling's presence in both Canada and the United States, while providing access to high-quality rigs and field personnel.
Per the terms of the agreement, CWC shareholders will receive 947,909 Precision shares valued at C$88 million, along with C$14 million in cash. Additionally, Precision Drilling will take on CWC's outstanding debt, which stands at approximately C$40 million.
Operating Synergies
The acquisition is set to augment Precision's operational capacity, adding a fleet of 62 marketed service rigs and seven marketed drilling rigs in Canada, as well as 11 marketed drilling rigs in the United States, with seven of them being alternating current (AC) triple rigs. Several of these rigs are already actively deployed for customers, underscoring their immediate value.
Precision Drilling anticipates realizing annual operating savings of around C$20 million following the integration of CWC Energy Services. This cost-efficiency, coupled with expected synergies and the company's growing scale, is anticipated to contribute positively to its earnings and generate substantial cash flow, which can be channeled toward enhancing shareholder returns and supporting Precision’s debt-reduction initiatives.
Future Monetization and Commitment to Debt Reduction
Emphasizing the quality of CWC's assets, PDS said that they span across Canada and the United States, are well-maintained and complemented by an experienced workforce and strong client relationships. Furthermore, the company has identified excess CWC real estate valued at approximately C$20 million, which it plans to monetize post closure of the deal.
Overall, the CWC acquisition is poised to significantly strengthen Precision Drilling’s position in the energy services sector, nurturing growth, cost savings, and better capabilities in the North American market. The deal also aligns with Precision Drilling's commitment to lower its debt levels by $500 million between 2022 and 2025, with an ambitious target to reduce debt by $150 million in 2023.
About Precision Drilling
Precision Drilling is a top-tier provider of safe and environmentally responsible services to the energy sector. It offers customers access to an extensive fleet of Super Series drilling rigs. In particular, the company has commercialized a proprietary industry-leading digital technology portfolio known as Alpha that utilizes advanced automation and analytics to ensure efficient and predictable outcomes. Additionally, Precision offers well service rigs, rental equipment, and technical support, all delivered by skilled personnel.
Zacks Rank & Stock Picks
Precision Drilling carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) at present. Meanwhile, investors interested in the energy sector might consider the operators mentioned below. These companies currently sport a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Solaris Oilfield Infrastructure SOI: It beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings in each of the trailing four quarters at an average of 18.8%.
SOI is valued at around $462.2 million. Solaris Oilfield Infrastructure has seen its shares edged down 0.1% in a year.
CVR Energy CVI: It beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings in each of the trailing four quarters. Over the past 60 days, CVR Energy saw the Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2023 move up 44.2%.
CVR Energy is valued at around $3.7 billion. CVI has seen its shares gain 9.4% in a year.
Helix Energy Solutions Group HLX: Over the past 60 days, Helix Energy Solutions Group saw the Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2023 move up 4.3%. The 2023 Zacks Consensus Estimate for HLX indicates 200% year-over-year earnings per share growth.
Helix Energy Solutions Group is valued at around $1.6 billion. HLX has seen its shares surge 147.7% in a year.
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CVR Energy Inc. (CVI) : Free Stock Analysis Report
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Solaris Oilfield Infrastructure, Inc. (SOI) : Free Stock Analysis Report
