Key Innovations and Projects: In Q3 2024, Halliburton (HAL) introduced an innovative hybrid magnet motor called TrueSync. Its Octiv fracturing platform saw the introduction of the Octiv Auto Frac service. It also brought in Sensori fracture monitoring service for more efficient and cost-effective fracturing operations. It introduced the LOGIX platform to refine drilling performance in automation and remote operations. During the quarter, it introduced the Clear portfolio of electromechanical well intervention technologies.
 Among notable contracts, Petrobras in Brazil awarded it the opportunity to provide integrated well interventions and plug and abandonment services for offshore wells. It also collaborated with Adena Power for energy and climate ventures.
Q3 Drubbing but Prioritizes FCF in Q4: Quarter-over-quarter, the revenues in the company’s Completion and Production operating segment decreased by 3% in Q3. The top line in the Drilling and Evaluation segment decreased by 1.4%. Geographically, Europe/Africa/CIS, Latin America, and North America witnessed a fall (4.6%, 4%, and 3.8% down, respectively) as opposed to a 2.5% rise in the Middle East/Asia in Q3 from Q2.
Lower pressure pumping services in the US onshore, lower completion tool sales in North America and Europe/Africa, and lower stimulation activity in Latin America weighed on the Q3 financials. Some positives emerged regarding higher drilling-related services in Latin America, software sales, and improved wireline activity. HAL’s management prioritizes free cash flow and shareholder returns in Q4. In North America, it focuses on maximizing value by leveraging its Zeus platform and drilling services business.
Cash Flows And Balance Sheet Strengthen: HAL’s cash flow from operations strengthened (17% up) in 9M2024 compared to a year ago. As a result, its FCF increased by 30%. Debt-to-equity (0.74x) also showed improvement from FY2023, due primarily to higher shareholders’ equity. During Q3, it repurchased shares worth $200 million to improve shareholder returns, a repeat after Q1 and Q2. You may read more about the company in our previous article here.
Thanks for reading the HAL take three, designed to give you three critical takeaways from HAL’s earnings report. Soon, we will present a second update on HAL earnings highlighting its current strategy, news, and notes we extracted from our deeper dive.
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