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Superior Plus Corp. (TSE:SPB)
TSX:SPB

Superior Plus (SPB) AI Stock Analysis

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Superior Plus

(TSX:SPB)

Rating:65Neutral
Price Target:
C$8.00
▲( 0.50% Upside)
Superior Plus's overall stock score reflects a mixed financial picture with strengths in cash flow management and strategic initiatives offset by declining income and increased leverage. Positive technical indicators and a strong earnings call further support the value, although the high P/E ratio suggests caution in valuation. The combination of a high dividend yield and positive earnings guidance adds stability and potential upside, balancing financial risks.
Positive Factors
Financial Strategy
Superior's strategy includes targeting significant growth in EBITDA and free cash flow, driven by operational efficiencies and improved asset utilization.
Market Position
Certarus is positioned to benefit from steady industrial demand and is a market leader in over-the-road CNG with significant market share.
Operational Efficiency
The company's focus on increasing operational efficiency and potential market share gains in Propane is seen as a key growth area.
Negative Factors
Debt Management
The focus on share buybacks and deleveraging is expected to improve per-share metrics and position the company for future growth.

Superior Plus (SPB) vs. iShares MSCI Canada ETF (EWC)

Superior Plus Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionSuperior Plus Corp. is a diversified industrial company primarily operating in North America, focusing on the distribution and retailing of propane and other energy services. The company is engaged in two main segments: Energy Distribution and Specialty Chemicals. The Energy Distribution segment provides regulated and unregulated energy products such as propane, heating oil, and other refined fuels to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. The Specialty Chemicals segment produces and sells specialty chemical products, including sodium chlorate and chlor-alkali products, serving various industrial sectors.
How the Company Makes MoneySuperior Plus generates revenue through its two main business segments. The Energy Distribution segment is the primary source of income, where the company sells propane, heating oil, and refined fuels directly to consumers and businesses. This segment benefits from long-term customer relationships and seasonal demand fluctuations, particularly in colder months. The Specialty Chemicals segment contributes to revenue by manufacturing and selling chemical products like sodium chlorate, used in the pulp and paper industry, and chlor-alkali products, used in water treatment and other industrial processes. Revenue growth is supported by strategic acquisitions, expanding customer base, and optimizing logistics and supply chain operations. Additionally, partnerships with suppliers and distribution networks play a critical role in enhancing the company's market reach and operational efficiency.

Superior Plus Financial Statement Overview

Summary
Superior Plus shows a mix of financial strengths and weaknesses. While gross profit margins improved, revenue and net income have deteriorated, impacting profitability. Increased leverage poses financial risks, and declining ROE suggests reduced shareholder value. Despite these challenges, the company maintains reasonable cash flow management, crucial for its operations.
Income Statement
60
Neutral
Superior Plus experienced a significant decline in total revenue from 2023 to 2024, dropping by approximately 28.96%. The gross profit margin improved from 45.66% in 2023 to 53.90% in 2024, indicating better cost management despite lower revenue. However, the net profit margin turned negative in 2024, at -1.54%, compared to 1.54% in 2023, primarily due to a net loss. The absence of EBIT in 2024 hinders the ability to evaluate operating efficiency, but EBITDA margin remained healthy at 16.24%.
Balance Sheet
55
Neutral
The company's debt-to-equity ratio increased from 1.74 in 2023 to 2.11 in 2024, highlighting a rising leverage risk. The equity ratio decreased from 27.57% to 24.03%, indicating reduced financial stability. Return on Equity (ROE) declined to -4.15% in 2024 due to net losses, compared to 3.62% in 2023, reflecting declining shareholder returns.
Cash Flow
70
Positive
Operating cash flow decreased to $274.1 million in 2024 from $550 million in 2023, impacting cash generation capabilities. Free cash flow also dropped significantly by 67.5%, affecting liquidity. However, the operating cash flow to net income ratio remains strong, suggesting efficient cash flow management relative to earnings.
Breakdown
Dec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021Dec 2020
Income StatementTotal Revenue
2.38B3.35B3.38B2.39B2.39B
Gross Profit
1.28B1.53B1.19B912.70M1.11B
EBIT
0.00272.30M182.30M117.10M246.00M
EBITDA
387.00M569.20M203.30M318.20M328.51M
Net Income Common Stockholders
-36.80M51.60M-87.90M17.20M58.89M
Balance SheetCash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments
17.10M48.30M58.40M81.00M67.80M
Total Assets
3.69B5.17B4.48B3.56B3.83B
Total Debt
1.87B2.48B2.15B1.63B1.83B
Net Debt
1.85B2.44B2.09B1.60B1.80B
Total Liabilities
2.54B3.40B3.02B2.25B2.55B
Stockholders Equity
885.80M1.43B1.11B983.60M949.20M
Cash FlowFree Cash Flow
113.70M349.80M131.40M126.90M243.90M
Operating Cash Flow
274.10M550.00M248.70M232.00M360.20M
Investing Cash Flow
-142.10M-467.10M-632.10M172.00M-384.20M
Financing Cash Flow
-144.70M-99.70M410.90M-399.60M22.50M

Superior Plus Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Positive
Last Price7.96
Price Trends
50DMA
6.85
Positive
100DMA
6.54
Positive
200DMA
6.72
Positive
Market Momentum
MACD
0.31
Negative
RSI
78.11
Negative
STOCH
89.12
Negative
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For TSE:SPB, the sentiment is Positive. The current price of 7.96 is above the 20-day moving average (MA) of 7.24, above the 50-day MA of 6.85, and above the 200-day MA of 6.72, indicating a bullish trend. The MACD of 0.31 indicates Negative momentum. The RSI at 78.11 is Negative, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 89.12 is Negative, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Positive sentiment for TSE:SPB.

Superior Plus Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (63)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
TSCU
72
Outperform
C$7.80B26.046.76%4.77%-0.53%-31.77%
TSNPI
72
Outperform
$5.29B20.326.08%5.91%-5.33%
TSCPX
71
Outperform
C$8.40B11.7415.24%4.74%-27.55%-12.05%
TSALA
71
Outperform
$11.34B20.116.56%3.14%2.27%-9.19%
TSSPB
65
Neutral
C$1.85B36.462.90%5.65%5.71%320.62%
63
Neutral
$8.54B10.364.69%4.37%4.05%-12.96%
TSAQN
58
Neutral
$5.86B5.54%5.48%-4.84%-213.24%
* Utilities Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
TSE:SPB
Superior Plus
7.96
-1.01
-11.26%
TSE:NPI
Northland Power
20.24
-2.27
-10.07%
TSE:AQN
Algonquin Power & Utilities
7.63
-0.76
-9.07%
TSE:ALA
AltaGas
37.91
8.52
29.01%
TSE:CU
Canadian Utilities A
38.07
7.82
25.85%
TSE:CPX
Capital Power
54.29
17.63
48.09%

Superior Plus Earnings Call Summary

Earnings Call Date:May 13, 2025
(Q1-2025)
|
% Change Since: 9.64%|
Next Earnings Date:Aug 13, 2025
Earnings Call Sentiment Positive
The earnings call was generally positive, with significant improvements in adjusted EBITDA, free cash flow, and progress in strategic initiatives like Superior Delivers and share repurchases. However, there were some challenges in the CNG segment due to pricing pressures and higher corporate operating costs. Overall, the highlights outweigh the lowlights.
Q1-2025 Updates
Positive Updates
Record First Quarter Adjusted EBITDA
First quarter adjusted EBITDA of $260.5 million increased 10.5% compared to the first quarter last year, driven by strong results in both propane and compressed natural gas.
Significant Growth in Free Cash Flow
Free cash flow per share increased by 54%, driven by strong operating results and a share count that is roughly 5% lower quarter-over-quarter due to share repurchases.
Superior Delivers Initiative on Track
The Superior Delivers program contributed approximately $2.3 million of EBITDA in the quarter and remains on track to contribute $20 million to adjusted EBITDA this year.
Share Repurchase Program Progress
The company repurchased approximately 16.5 million shares, or 7% of outstanding shares, since starting the buyback program, expecting to reach the 10% threshold by early Q3.
Negative Updates
Pricing Pressure in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Segment
Continued pricing pressure as customers become increasingly cautious about the broader economic landscape, with expectations to finish the year towards the lower end of the 5% to 10% growth range.
Higher Corporate Operating Costs
Corporate operating costs were $7.3 million in the quarter, up from $5.5 million a year ago, due to higher incentive plan expenses and one-time costs associated with the Investor Day.
Company Guidance
In the Superior Plus 2025 First Quarter Results Conference Call, the company provided detailed guidance on several key metrics. Adjusted EBITDA for the first quarter was $260.5 million, marking a 10.5% increase from the previous year. EBITDA per share rose by 19% to $0.89, while adjusted net earnings per share saw a significant increase of 32% to $0.66. Free cash flow per share also increased by 54% to $0.94, driven by strong operational results and a 5% reduction in share count due to repurchases. The U.S. propane segment generated an adjusted EBITDA of $163.6 million, up 14% year-over-year, boosted by higher volumes and contributions from the Superior Delivers initiative. Canadian propane recorded an adjusted EBITDA of $49.1 million, a 7% increase, while the compressed natural gas business, Certarus, posted a 7% rise in adjusted EBITDA to $55.1 million. The company is advancing its Superior Delivers program, with an expected $20 million contribution to adjusted EBITDA for 2025 and $70 million by 2027. Despite pricing pressures in the CNG segment, the company maintains its full-year guidance but anticipates finishing towards the lower end of its 5% to 10% growth range. Corporate operating costs were noted at $7.3 million, up from $5.5 million due to higher incentive plan expenses and one-time costs from the Investor Day. The company expects to end the year with a leverage ratio of approximately 3.6x.

Superior Plus Corporate Events

Executive/Board ChangesShareholder MeetingsBusiness Operations and Strategy
Superior Plus Announces Successful Shareholder Meeting Outcomes
Positive
May 13, 2025

Superior Plus Corp. announced the successful approval of all resolutions at its annual and special shareholders meeting, including the election of 10 directors and the appointment of Ernst & Young LLP as auditors. The meeting also saw the approval of a new stock option plan, a reduction in the stated capital account, and a non-binding advisory vote on executive compensation, reflecting strong shareholder support and potentially enhancing the company’s governance and operational strategies.

The most recent analyst rating on (TSE:SPB) stock is a Hold with a C$9.50 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Superior Plus stock, see the TSE:SPB Stock Forecast page.

Stock BuybackDividendsFinancial Disclosures
Superior Plus Reports Record Q1 Results with Strong Growth in Propane and CNG Segments
Positive
May 13, 2025

Superior Plus Corp. announced its first quarter results for 2025, reporting a record Adjusted EBITDA of $260.5 million, an 11% increase from the previous year. The company’s propane and CNG businesses both showed significant growth, with the CNG segment achieving a record quarter. Superior Plus also returned over $35 million to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases, demonstrating its commitment to delivering shareholder value.

The most recent analyst rating on (TSE:SPB) stock is a Hold with a C$9.50 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Superior Plus stock, see the TSE:SPB Stock Forecast page.

DividendsBusiness Operations and Strategy
Superior Plus Announces 2025 Q2 Dividend
Positive
May 13, 2025

Superior Plus Corp. has announced a quarterly dividend of CAD $0.045 per common share, payable on July 15, 2025, to shareholders of record as of June 30, 2025. This decision reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to providing returns to its shareholders and highlights its stable financial position. The dividend is part of Superior’s annualized cash dividend rate of CAD $0.18 per share, classified as an eligible dividend for Canadian income tax purposes. This announcement underscores Superior Plus’s strategic focus on maintaining shareholder value while continuing its operations in the energy sector.

The most recent analyst rating on (TSE:SPB) stock is a Hold with a C$9.50 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Superior Plus stock, see the TSE:SPB Stock Forecast page.

Shareholder MeetingsFinancial Disclosures
Superior Plus Announces Q1 2025 Results Release and Virtual AGM
Neutral
Apr 4, 2025

Superior Plus Corp. has announced the release of its 2025 first quarter results, scheduled for May 13, 2025, followed by a conference call and webcast on May 14, 2025. Additionally, the company will hold its Annual and Special Meeting of Shareholders on May 13, 2025, as a virtual-only event. These announcements highlight Superior Plus’s commitment to transparency and stakeholder engagement, potentially impacting its market positioning and investor relations.

Stock BuybackBusiness Operations and StrategyFinancial Disclosures
Superior Plus Raises Financial Targets and Outlines Strategic Growth Plan
Positive
Apr 2, 2025

Superior Plus has announced an increase in its Superior Delivers target to over $70 million in incremental Adjusted EBITDA by 2027, up from the previous target of $50 million. The company also introduced new financial targets for 2027, aiming for significant growth in Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBTDA per share, and Free Cash Flow, while planning to strengthen its balance sheet by reducing its leverage ratio and allocating substantial funds for share repurchases. These strategic moves are expected to drive significant shareholder value and position Superior Plus as a best-in-class energy solutions provider.

Executive/Board ChangesBusiness Operations and Strategy
Superior Plus Appoints Dale Winger as President of Certarus
Positive
Mar 20, 2025

Superior Plus Corp. announced the appointment of Dale Winger as President of Certarus, succeeding Natasha Cherednichenko. Winger, with extensive experience in the chemical and oilfield service sectors, will focus on optimizing asset performance and driving growth in the company’s compressed natural gas division. His leadership is expected to enhance Certarus’ strategic direction and expansion efforts, reflecting Superior Plus’s commitment to leading in the energy transition and improving stakeholder value.

Executive/Board ChangesShareholder Meetings
Superior Plus Announces Strategic Board Changes
Neutral
Mar 17, 2025

Superior Plus Corp., a company involved in energy and petrochemical industries, has announced the nomination of three new individuals, Laura L. Schwinn, Jean Paul Gladu, and William T. Yardley, for election to its board of directors at the upcoming 2025 annual shareholder meeting. This move is part of Superior’s regular board succession planning, aimed at enhancing the board’s expertise with individuals possessing significant operational, U.S. business, and energy industry experience. The announcement also includes the retirement of long-serving board members Mary Jordan and Doug Harrison, marking a strategic renewal of the board to address future opportunities and challenges.

Dividends
Superior Plus Declares 2025 Q1 Dividend, Reinforcing Shareholder Value
Positive
Feb 27, 2025

Superior Plus Corp. has announced a quarterly dividend of CAD $0.045 per common share for the first quarter of 2025, payable on April 15, 2025, to shareholders of record as of March 31, 2025. This decision reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to providing shareholder value and maintaining its annualized cash dividend rate at CAD $0.18 per share. The dividend is eligible for Canadian income tax purposes, underscoring Superior’s stable financial strategy and its focus on sustainable growth within the energy distribution sector.

Business Operations and StrategyFinancial Disclosures
Superior Plus Corp. Reports Strong 2024 Results and Strategic Growth Plans
Positive
Feb 26, 2025

Superior Plus Corp. reported a 10% increase in full-year 2024 Adjusted EBITDA to $455.5 million, despite a 2% decline in the fourth quarter. The company returned approximately $177 million to shareholders and expects an 8% rise in 2025 Adjusted EBITDA due to strategic initiatives and growth in its Compressed Natural Gas division. The Superior Delivers transformation is projected to add at least $50 million to Adjusted EBITDA by 2027, with $20 million anticipated in 2025. These efforts are designed to strengthen the company’s propane business and adapt to market changes, ensuring long-term profitability and increased cash flow.

Glossary
OutperformA stock rated as "Outperform" is expected to perform better than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests that the stock is likely to deliver higher returns compared to the average returns of other stocks in the same sector or market index. Investors might consider this stock a good buying opportunity.
NeutralA stock rated as "Neutral" is expected to perform in line with the overall market or a specific benchmark. This rating indicates that the stock is neither particularly attractive nor unattractive for investment. Investors may consider holding onto the stock, as it is not expected to either significantly outperform or underperform the market.
UnderperformA stock rated as "Underperform" is expected to perform worse than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests that the stock may deliver lower returns compared to the average returns of other stocks in the same sector or market index. Investors might consider selling the stock or avoiding it as an investment.

Disclaimer

This AI Analyst Stock Report is automatically generated by our AI systems using advanced algorithms and publicly available financial, technical, and market data. While the information provided aims to be accurate and insightful, it is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Any content created by an AI (Artificial Intelligence) system may contain inaccuracies and/or contain errors. Investing in stocks carries inherent risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results. This report does not account for your personal financial circumstances, objectives, or risk tolerance. Always conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The analysis and recommendations provided are based on historical and current data and may not fully reflect future market conditions or unexpected developments. Neither the creators of this report nor its affiliated entities guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. Use this report at your own discretion and risk.