Gibson Energy Inc.: An Undervalued Energy Company That Doesn’t Care About Oil Prices

Gibson Energy Inc. (TSX:GEI) isn’t actually tied to energy prices that much, but the market doesn’t seem to care.

| More on:
The Motley Fool

Because it operates in the energy sector, Gibson Energy Inc. (TSX:GEI) has been treated like any other oil-related company, so shares are down 45% over 12 months. While the company’s name might imply that it produces oil, it’s actually a midstream player, a space that is regarded as less volatile than actually drilling for oil.

As a midstream player, Gibson provides necessary services and infrastructure no matter what oil prices are, such as refining, distribution, terminals, and pipelines. One of the most attractive aspects of this business is that it is largely volume based, so while the underlying price of oil may fluctuate, Gibson can maintain its margins. In fact, only 25% of its revenues are directly tied to the price of commodities.

Still getting punished

Despite the company’s advantages, it seems to have been punished with the rest of the sector. Over the past year shares are down roughly the same amount as one of its customers, Husky Energy Inc. (TSX:HSE), an oil and gas producer. Due to the collapse in oil prices, Husky Energy is expected to have a loss of $0.07 a share this year. Because of its midstream model, however, Gibson is expected to turn a profit of $0.30 a share.

Here’s a quick example that shows how Gibson can continue generating profits despite wild swings in commodity prices. Gibson’s terminals and pipelines business contributes 31% of company profits, its biggest segment. It serves major, international customers like Royal Dutch Shell plcBP plc, and Total SA.

In 2013 when oil prices averaged $100 a barrel, the segment turned a profit of $96 million. When prices collapsed to just $50 a barrel in 2014, segment profit actually grew to $117 million. This year, with oil hovering around $30 a barrel, segment profit should grow yet again to over $130 million. Now that’s resiliency.

Investing when others are scared

Because Gibson can turn a profit regardless of oil prices, it has a consistent stream of cash flow to put towards growth projects, acquisitions, and dividends. Over the past 12 months the company has generated over $400 million in profits. This leaves plenty of cash to dedicate towards acquisitions, most of which should come at very attractive prices. Having excess cash in a bear market is always a good position.

After expenses and growth initiatives, it should still have over $200 million in distributable cash flow, more than covering its dividend payments totaling roughly $160 million. That dividend current pays out a 9% yield–not bad for a company that still has excess cash leftover. Most high-yield energy names are running big losses today, covering their dividends through increased borrowing, share sales, or asset sales.

Gibson looks like the rare company with a high, sustainable dividend and an underpriced, misunderstood business.

 

This article represents the opinion of the writer, who may disagree with the “official” recommendation position of a Motley Fool premium service or advisor. We’re Motley! Questioning an investing thesis — even one of our own — helps us all think critically about investing and make decisions that help us become smarter, happier, and richer, so we sometimes publish articles that may not be in line with recommendations, rankings or other content.

Fool contributor Ryan Vanzo has no position in any stocks mentioned.

More on Dividend Stocks

Businessman holding tablet and showing a growing virtual hologram of statistics, graph and chart with arrow up on dark background. Stock market. Business growth, planning and strategy concept
Dividend Stocks

TFSA Magic: Earn Enormous Passive Income That the CRA Can’t Touch

If you're seeking out passive income, with zero taxes involved, then get on board with a TFSA and this portfolio…

Read more »

Man with no money. Businessman holding empty wallet
Dividend Stocks

2 Stocks Under $50 New Investors Can Confidently Buy

There are some great stocks under $50 that every investor needs to know about. Here’s a look at two great…

Read more »

think thought consider
Dividend Stocks

Down 10.88%: Is ATD Stock a Good Buy After Earnings?

Alimentation Couche-Tard (TSX:ATD) stock might not be the easy buy-case it once was. Here’s a look at what happened.

Read more »

money cash dividends
Dividend Stocks

TFSA Dividend Stocks: Earn $1,200/Year Tax-Free

Canadian stocks like Fortis are a must-have in your portfolio to earn tax-free yields for decades.

Read more »

sale discount best price
Dividend Stocks

1 Dividend Stock Down 11 Percent to Buy Right Now

Do you want a great dividend stock down 11% that can provide years of growth potential? Here's one heavily discounted…

Read more »

Growth from coins
Dividend Stocks

1 Grade A Dividend Stock Down 11% to Buy and Hold Forever 

If you're looking for the right dividend stock at the right price, you're going to want to consider this insurance…

Read more »

Target. Stand out from the crowd
Dividend Stocks

2 Dividend Stocks to Double Up on Right Now

Are you looking for dividend stocks to buy right now? Here are two top picks!

Read more »

edit Taxes CRA
Dividend Stocks

Tax Time: How to Keep More of Your Money

Nearly everyone hates paying taxes, although Canadians can lessen the financial pain with the right tax strategies.

Read more »