Summary
Enbridge Inc. reported strong first-quarter 2019 results, with earnings attributable to common shareholders rising significantly to $1.9 billion, or $0.94 per diluted share, compared to $445 million, or $0.26 per diluted share, in the prior year. This substantial improvement was driven by several key factors, including the absence of prior-year impairments and losses related to asset sales, a significant positive swing in derivative fair value adjustments, and strong operational performance across its Liquids Pipelines and Gas Transmission & Midstream segments. The company also benefited from higher volumes, increased tolls, and contributions from new assets placed in service. While the company faces ongoing regulatory and legal matters, including the Line 3 replacement project in Minnesota, its robust financial performance and strategic growth initiatives position it well for continued value creation.
Key Highlights
- 1Net earnings attributable to common shareholders increased to $1.9 billion ($0.94/share) in Q1 2019 from $445 million ($0.26/share) in Q1 2018.
- 2EBITDA for the Liquids Pipelines segment saw a significant increase driven by higher tolls and throughput, alongside favorable derivative impacts.
- 3The Gas Transmission and Midstream segment experienced a substantial EBITDA increase, primarily due to the absence of a prior-year impairment charge related to Midcoast Operating, L.P. (MOLP).
- 4New contributions from gas transmission assets placed in service in 2018 positively impacted earnings.
- 5The Line 3 replacement program in Minnesota is facing permitting delays, leading to an expected in-service date in the second half of 2020, with potential for cost overruns.
- 6Enbridge's financial position remains solid with $7.24 billion in net available liquidity.
- 7The company declared a quarterly dividend of $0.738 per common share, payable in June 2019.