SB-PC — Safe Bulkers, Inc.

Summary of Safe Bulker's Q4 2025 Earnings Call

1. Key Financial Results and Metrics

• Adjusted Earnings Per Share (EPS): $0.14, down from $0.15 in Q4 2024.
• Adjusted EBITDA: $37.4 million, compared to $40.7 million in the same quarter last year.
• Net Revenues: $72.6 million.
• Daily Vessel Operating Expenses: Increased by 13% to $5,683 from $5,047 in Q4 2024.
• Dividend Declared: $0.05 per share, marking the 17th consecutive quarterly dividend with a yield of 3.3%.
• Liquidity: $382 million in cash and undrawn revolving credit facilities.

2. Strategic Updates and Business Highlights

• The company maintains a balanced exposure between spot and time-charter markets to optimize cash flow and capital allocation.
• Fleet consists of 45 vessels, with a focus on quality, as approximately 80% are Japanese-built.
• Newbuild program includes 8 Phase 3 vessels scheduled for delivery by Q1 2029, enhancing fuel efficiency and compliance with future regulations.
• The company has initiated a $10 million share repurchase program and sold a 2012 Capesize vessel.

3. Forward Guidance and Outlook

• The dry-bulk market is expected to see modest growth, with supply projected to match demand in 2026.
• Global GDP growth is forecasted at around 3% for 2026 and 2027, supporting dry-bulk demand growth of 2% to 3%.
• The company anticipates continued strength in the freight market, with a significant backlog of contracted revenue from Capesize vessels.

4. Bad News, Challenges, or Points of Concern

• Increased Operating Expenses: Daily vessel operating expenses have risen significantly, impacting profitability.
• Market Volatility: Geopolitical factors have introduced volatility in the dry-bulk market, which could affect future earnings.
• Aging Fleet Concerns: 35% of the dry-bulk fleet exceeds 15 years of age, which may lead to increased operational expenses and regulatory challenges.
• Charter Market Hesitance: There is currently no strong appetite for longer-term charters (2-3 years), which could limit revenue stability.

5. Notable Q&A Insights

• Fleet Renewal Strategy: Management acknowledged challenges in acquiring quality secondhand vessels due to rising prices and limited availability, indicating a preference for newbuilds.
• Charter Market Dynamics: Short-term charter rates are improving, with potential for $18,000-$19,000 per day for Eco Kamsarmaxes, but longer contracts will depend on sustained market strength.
• Market Sentiment: Management noted that the charter market is beginning to recover after a difficult period, but longer-term contracts will require more visibility on market conditions.

Overall, Safe Bulkers reported stable financial performance amidst a recovering market, while navigating challenges related to operating costs and fleet age. The company remains focused on strategic fleet renewal and maintaining liquidity to support growth and shareholder returns.