UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10‑Q

 

(Mark One)

 

 

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2017

 

OR

 

 

For the transition period from                    to

 

Commission file number: 001‑38075

 

ANTERO MIDSTREAM GP LP

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

(303) 357‑7310

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  ☒  Yes   ☐   No

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). ☒ Yes  ☐ No

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.

☒ Yes ☐ No

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b‑2 of the Exchange Act)  ☐ Yes  ☒ No

 

As of October 26, 2017, there were 186,181,975 common shares representing limited partner interests outstanding.

 

 

 

EXPLANATORY NOTE

 

Antero Midstream GP LP (“AMGP”) was originally formed as Antero Resources Midstream Management LLC (“ARMM”) in 2013, to become the general partner of Antero Midstream Partners LP (“Antero Midstream”), a master limited partnership that is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: AM). On May 4, 2017, ARMM converted from a Delaware limited liability company to a Delaware limited partnership and changed its name to Antero Midstream GP LP in connection with our initial public offering (“IPO”). Unless the context otherwise requires, references to “we” and “our” refer to: (i) for the period prior to May 4, 2017, ARMM, and (ii) beginning on May 4, 2017, AMGP. We are traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: AMGP). We own 100% of the membership interests of Antero Midstream Partners GP LLC (“AMP GP”), which owns the non-economic general partner interest in Antero Midstream, and we own all of the Series A capital interests in Antero IDR Holdings LLC (“IDR LLC”), which entity owns the incentive distribution rights (“IDRs”) in Antero Midstream. IDR distributions earned by us through May 9, 2017 were distributed to Antero Resources Investment LLC (“Antero Investment”), the sole member of ARMM for all periods prior to the IPO which was liquidated on October 31, 2017, net of any related liabilities including income taxes through that date and expenses of the IPO.

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

 

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Some of the information in this report may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements give our current expectations, contain projections of results of operations or of financial condition, or forecasts of future events. Words such as “may,” “assume,” “forecast,” “position,” “predict,” “strategy,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “project,” “budget,” “potential,” or “continue,” and similar expressions are used to identify forward-looking statements. They can be affected by assumptions used or by known or unknown risks or uncertainties. Consequently, no forward-looking statements can be guaranteed. When considering these forward-looking statements, you should keep in mind the risk factors and other cautionary statements in this report. Actual results may vary materially. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. You should also understand that it is not possible to predict or identify all such factors and should not consider the following list to be a complete statement of all potential risks and uncertainties. We own the general partner of Antero Midstream Partners LP (NYSE: AM) (“Antero Midstream”) and all of the capital interests in the owner of the incentive distribution rights (“IDRs”) in Antero Midstream. Antero Midstream is a master limited partnership 53.0% owned by Antero Resources Corporation (NYSE: AR) (“Antero Resources”) that was formed to primarily service Antero Resources’ production and completion activity in the Appalachian Basin’s Marcellus Shale and Utica Shale located in West Virginia and Ohio. Because the IDRs are our sole source of revenues, all potential risks and uncertainties that affect the results of operations, financial condition, or forecasts of future events of either Antero Resources or Antero Midstream will also affect us. Factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from the results contemplated by such forward-looking statements include:

We caution you that these forward looking statements are subject to all of the risks and uncertainties, most of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond our and Antero Midstream’s control, incident to Antero Midstream’s business. These risks include, but are not limited to, commodity price volatility, inflation, environmental risks, drilling and completion and other operating risks, regulatory changes, the uncertainty inherent in projecting future rates of production, cash flow and access to capital, the timing of development expenditures, and the other risks described under “Risk Factors” in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2017 and in Antero Midstream’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters March 3, 2017 and June 30, 2017.

Should one or more of the risks or uncertainties described in this report occur, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, our and Antero Midstream’s actual results and plans could differ materially from those expressed in any forward looking statements.

All forward looking statements, expressed or implied, included in this report are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. This cautionary statement should also be considered in connection with any subsequent written or oral forward looking statements that we or persons acting on our behalf may issue.

Except as otherwise required by applicable law, we disclaim any duty to update any forward looking statements, all of which are expressly qualified by the statements in this section, to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

PART I—FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

 

Antero Midstream GP LP

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

December 31, 2016 and September 30, 2017

(Unaudited)

(In thousands)

 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

Antero Midstream GP LP

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income

Three Months Ended September 30, 2016 and 2017

(Unaudited)

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

Antero Midstream GP LP

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016 and 2017

(Unaudited)

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

Antero Midstream GP LP

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Partners’ Capital

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017

(Unaudited)

(In thousands)

 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

Antero Midstream GP LP

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016 and 2017

(Unaudited)

(In thousands)

 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

 

(1)   Business and Organization

 

Antero Midstream GP LP (“AMGP”) was originally formed as Antero Resources Midstream Management LLC (“ARMM”) in 2013, to become the general partner of Antero Midstream Partners LP (“Antero Midstream”), a master limited partnership that is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: AM). On May 4, 2017, ARMM converted from a Delaware limited liability company to a Delaware limited partnership and changed its name to Antero Midstream GP LP in connection with our initial public offering (“IPO”). Unless the context otherwise requires, references to “we” and “our” refer to: (i) for the period prior to May 4, 2017, ARMM, and (ii) beginning on May 4, 2017, AMGP. We own 100% of the membership interests of Antero Midstream Partners GP LLC (“AMP GP”), which owns the non-economic general partner interest in Antero Midstream, and we own all of the Series A capital interests (“Series A Units”) in Antero IDR Holdings LLC (“IDR LLC”), which entity owns the incentive distribution rights (“IDRs”) in Antero Midstream.  IDR LLC also has Series B profits interests (“Series B Units”) outstanding that entitle the holders to receive up to 6% of the distributions that Antero Midstream makes on the IDRs in excess of $7.5 million per quarter, subject to certain vesting conditions (see Note 3—Long-Term Incentive Plans).

 

Our only income results from distributions made on the IDRs of Antero Midstream. IDRs entitle holders to receive cash distributions from Antero Midstream when distributions exceed certain target amounts (see Note 4 – Distributions from Antero Midstream).  We are taxed as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes and we refer to our outstanding limited partner interests as common shares.

 

We are managed by our general partner, AMGP GP LLC (“AMGP GP”), who establishes the quarterly cash distribution for our common shares payable to shareholders. AMGP GP has a board of directors appointed by certain former members of Antero Resources Investment LLC (“Antero Investment”), the former sole member of ARMM which was liquidated on October 31, 2017. Following the completion of our IPO, certain of our directors and executive officers own AMGP common shares as well as Series B Units in IDR LLC. In addition, certain of our directors and executive officers own a portion of Antero Resources Corporation’s (“Antero Resources”) (NYSE: AR) common stock and Antero Midstream’s common units. We have an agreement with Antero Resources, under which Antero Resources provides general and administrative services to us for a fee of $0.5 million per year, subject to annual inflation adjustments. We also incur recurring direct expenses for the costs associated with being a publicly traded entity.

 

IDR distributions earned by us through May 9, 2017 were distributed to Antero Investment prior to its liquidation for all periods prior to the IPO, net of any related liabilities including income taxes through that date and expenses of the IPO.

 

Antero Midstream was formed by Antero Resources to own, operate and develop midstream energy assets to service Antero Resources’ oil and gas producing assets. Both Antero Midstream and Antero Resources’ assets are located in the Marcellus Shale and Utica Shale located in West Virginia and Ohio. Antero Midstream’s assets consist of gathering pipelines, compressor stations, and water handling and treatment systems, which provide midstream services to Antero Resources under long term, fixed fee contracts. Antero Midstream also has a 15% equity interest in the gathering system of Stonewall Gas Gathering LLC (“Stonewall”) and a 50% equity interest in a joint venture to develop processing and fractionation assets with MarkWest Energy Partners, L.P. (“MarkWest”). Our results of operations, financial position and cash flows are dependent on the results of operations, financial position and cash flows of Antero Midstream. As a result, these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with Antero Midstream’s audited combined consolidated financial statements and notes thereto presented in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016, as well as Antero Midstream’s unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements presented in its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2017.

 

(2)   Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

(a)   Basis of Presentation

 

These condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) applicable to interim financial information. The accompanying unaudited condensed financial statements of AMGP have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and, accordingly, do not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete consolidated financial statements. In the opinion of management, these statements include all adjustments (consisting of normal and recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation of our financial position as of December 31, 2016 and September 30, 2017, and our results of operations and cash flows for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2017. We have no items of other comprehensive income (loss); therefore, our net income (loss) is identical to our comprehensive income (loss). Operating results for the period ended September 30, 2017 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the full year.

 

As of the date these condensed consolidated financial statements were filed with the SEC, AMGP completed its evaluation of potential subsequent events for disclosure and no items requiring disclosure were identified other than as disclosed in Note 5 – Cash Distributions.

 

(b)   Principles of Consolidation

 

The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of AMGP, AMP GP (its wholly-owned subsidiary), and IDR LLC.

 

(c)   Investment in Antero Midstream

 

We have determined that Antero Midstream is a variable interest entity (“VIE”) for which we are not the primary beneficiary and therefore do not consolidate. We have concluded that Antero Resources is the primary beneficiary of Antero Midstream and should consolidate its financial statements. Antero Resources is the primary beneficiary based on its power to direct the activities that most significantly impact Antero Midstream’s economic performance and its obligations to absorb losses or receive benefits of Antero Midstream that could be significant to it. Antero Resources owns approximately 53.0% of the outstanding limited partner interests in Antero Midstream and its officers and management group also act as management of Antero Midstream. Antero Midstream was formed to own, operate and develop midstream energy assets to service Antero Resources’ production under long term contracts as described herein. We do not own any limited partnership interests in Antero Midstream and have no capital interests in Antero Midstream. We have not provided and do not anticipate providing financial support to Antero Midstream.

Antero Resources and Antero Midstream have contracts with 20-year initial terms and automatic renewal provisions, whereby Antero Resources has dedicated the rights for gathering and compression, and water delivery and handling, services to Antero Midstream on a fixed-fee basis. Such dedications cover a substantial portion of Antero’s current acreage and future acquired acreage, in each case, except for acreage that was already dedicated to other parties prior to entering into the service contracts or that was acquired subject to a pre-existing dedication. The contracts call for Antero Resources to present, in advance, drilling and completion plans in order for Antero Midstream to put in place gathering and compression, water handling, and gas processing assets to service Antero Resources’ assets. The drilling and completion capital investment decisions made by Antero Resources control the development and operation of all of Antero Midstream’s assets. Antero Resources therefore controls the activities that most significantly impact Antero Midstream’s economic performance. Because of these contractual obligations and the capital requirements related to these obligations, Antero Midstream has devoted and, for the foreseeable future, will devote substantially all of its

resources to servicing Antero Resources’ operations and revenues from Antero Resources will provide substantially all of Antero Midstream’s financial support and therefore its ability to finance its operations. Because of the long term contractual commitment to support Antero Resources’ substantial growth plans, Antero Midstream will be practically and physically constrained from providing any significant amount of services to third parties.

Our ownership of the non-economic general partner interest in Antero Midstream provides us with significant influence over Antero Midstream, but not control over the decisions that most significantly impact the economic performance of Antero Midstream. Our ownership of IDRs of Antero Midstream entitles us to receive cash distributions from Antero Midstream when distributions exceed certain target amounts. The ownership of these interests and IDRs do not require us to provide financial support to Antero Midstream. We obtained these interests upon our formation for no consideration. Therefore, they have no cost basis and are classified as long term investments. Our share of Antero Midstream’s earnings as a result of our ownership of IDRs is accounted for using the equity method of accounting. We recognize distributions earned from Antero Midstream as “Equity in earnings of Antero Midstream Partners LP” on our statement of operations in the period in which they are earned and are allocated to our capital account. Our long term interest in IDRs on the balance sheet is recorded in “Investment in Antero Midstream Partners LP.” The ownership of the general partner interests and IDRs do not provide us with any claim to the assets of Antero Midstream other than the balance in our Antero Midstream capital account. IDRs are recognized as earned and increase our capital account and equity investment. When these distributions are paid to us they reduce our capital accounts and our equity investment in Antero Midstream. See Note 4—Distributions from Antero Midstream.

 

(d)   Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of the condensed consolidated financial statements and notes in conformity with GAAP requires that management formulate estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the condensed consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

(e)   Income Taxes

 

We regularly review our tax positions in each significant taxing jurisdiction during the process of evaluating our tax provision. We make adjustments to our tax provision when: (i) facts and circumstances regarding a tax position change, causing a change in management’s judgment regarding that tax position; and/or (ii) a tax position is effectively settled with a tax authority at a differing amount.

 

Equity-based compensation expense of $26.3 million and IPO costs of $5.1 million are not and will not be deductible for federal income tax purposes. Our inability to deduct those expenses and costs, along with the effect of state taxes, account for the difference between the federal tax rate of 35% and effective rate of income tax expense for financial reporting purposes for the nine months ended September 30, 2017.

 

(f)   General and Administrative Expenses

 

General and administrative costs incurred during 2016 and pre-IPO in 2017 primarily relate to legal and other costs incurred in connection with our IPO. Post-IPO general and administrative expense consists primarily of management fees paid to Antero Resources, and other legal and administrative expenses.

 

(g) Fair Value Measures

 

The Financial Accounting Standards Board (the “FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures , clarifies the definition of fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. This guidance also relates to all nonfinancial assets and

liabilities that are not recognized or disclosed on a recurring basis (e.g., the initial recognition of asset retirement obligations and impairments of long ‑lived assets). The fair value is the price that we estimate would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. A fair value hierarchy is used to prioritize inputs to valuation techniques used to estimate fair value. An asset or liability subject to the fair value requirements is categorized within the hierarchy based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Our assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment and considers factors specific to the asset or liability. The highest priority (Level 1) is given to unadjusted quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities, and the lowest priority (Level 3) is given to unobservable inputs. Level 2 inputs are data, other than quoted prices included within Level 1, that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly.

 

(h) Net Income (Loss) per Common Share

 

Net income (loss) per common share – basic for each period is computed by dividing net income attributable to AMGP subsequent to IPO by the basic weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Net income (loss) per common share – diluted for each period is computed after giving consideration to the potential dilution from outstanding equity awards, calculated using the treasury stock method. During the periods in which AMGP incurs a net loss, diluted weighted average shares outstanding are equal to basic weighted average common shares outstanding because the effect of all equity awards is anti-dilutive. The following is a reconciliation of AMGP's basic weighted average common shares outstanding to diluted weighted average common shares outstanding during the periods presented (in thousands):

 

 

 

 

(3)   Long-Term Incentive Plans

 

As of September 30, 2017, IDR LLC had 98,600 Series B Units authorized and outstanding that entitle the holders to receive up to 6% of the amount of the distributions that Antero Midstream makes on its IDRs in excess of $7.5 million per quarter, subject to certain vesting conditions.  Series B Units issued to common law employees of AMGP, including officers of AMGP and Antero Resources employees who provide services directly to AMGP, are classified as equity awards. Series B Units issued to Antero Resources employees who are not common law employees of AMGP are classified as liability awards. IDR LLC granted 92,000 Series B Units that are equity classified awards and 8,000 Series B Units that are liability classified awards. During the nine months ending September 30, 2017, 500 Series B Units that were equity classified awards were forfeited, and 900 Series B units that were liability classified awards were forfeited. The Series B Units vest ratably over a three year period. The holders of vested Series B Units have the right to convert the units to common shares with a value equal to their pro rata share of up to 6% of any increase in our equity value in excess of $2.0 billion. In no event will the aggregate number of newly issued common shares exceed 6% of the total number of our issued and outstanding common shares.

 

For equity classified awards, we recognize expense for the grant date fair value of the awards over the vesting period of the awards. Forfeitures are accounted for as they occur by reversing expense previously recognized for awards that were forfeited during the period.  The grant date fair value of the Series B Unit awards was estimated using a Monte Carlo simulation using various assumptions including a floor equity value of $2.0 billion, expected volatility of 43% based on

historical volatility of a peer group of publicly traded partnerships, a risk free rate of 2.45%, and expected IDR distributions based on internal estimates discounted based on a weighted average cost of capital assumption of 7.25%. Based on these assumptions, the estimated value of each Series B Unit was $999 when they were issued.

 

For liability classified awards, we recognize expense for the fair value of the awards over the vesting period of the awards. Forfeitures are accounted for as they occur by reversing expense previously recognized for awards that were forfeited during the period. We update our assumptions each reporting period based on new developments and adjust such amounts to fair value based on revised assumptions, if applicable, over the vesting period. At September 30, 2017, the fair value of the Series B Unit awards was estimated using a Monte Carlo simulation using various assumptions including an equity value of $4.0 billion, expected volatility of 41% based on historical volatility of a peer group of publicly traded partnerships, a risk free rate of 2.28%, and expected IDR distributions based on internal estimates discounted based on a weighted average cost of capital assumption of 7.25%. Based on these assumptions, the estimated value of each Series B Unit at September 30, 2017 was $1,884.  The fair value measurement is based on significant inputs not observable in the market and thus represents a Level 3 measurement within the fair value hierarchy.

 

We recognized expense of $8.2 million, of which $7.6 million was for equity classified awards and $0.6 million was for liability classified awards, during the three months ended September 30, 2017. We recognized expense of $26.2 million, of which $22.9 million was for equity classified awards and $3.3 million was for liability classified awards, during the nine months ended September 30, 2017. As of September 30, 2017, there was $78.6 million of unamortized compensation expense related to nonvested Series B Units that is expected to be recognized over the next 2.25 years.

 

On April 17, 2017, we also adopted the Antero Midstream GP LP Long-Term Incentive Plan (“2017 LTIP”), pursuant to which certain non-employee directors of our general partner and certain officers, employees and consultants of Antero Resources are eligible to receive awards representing equity interests in AMGP. An aggregate of 930,851 common shares may be delivered pursuant to awards under the 2017 LTIP, subject to customary adjustments. As of September 30, 2017, 3,850 common shares have been granted and we have recognized related expense of $0.1 million. As of September 30, 2017, 927,001 common shares remain available for grant under the 2017 LTIP.

 

(4)   Distributions from Antero Midstream

 

Antero Midstream’s partnership agreement provides for a target minimum quarterly distribution of $0.17 per unit for each quarter, or $0.68 per unit on an annualized basis. The partnership agreement generally provides that Antero Midstream distribute cash each quarter to the holders of the common units pro rata until each unit has received a distribution of $0.1955.

 

If cash distributions to Antero Midstream’s unitholders exceed $0.1955 per common unit in any quarter, IDR LLC, as the holder of Antero Midstream’s IDRs, will receive distributions according to the following percentage allocations:

 

From the initial public offering of Antero Midstream in the fourth quarter of 2014 through September 30, 2017, distributions per common unit and distributions related to the IDRs were as follows:

 

 

The board of directors of Antero Midstream’s general partner has declared a cash distribution of $0.34 per unit for the quarter ended September 30, 2017. The distribution will be payable on November 16, 2017 to shareholders of record as of November 1, 2017.

 

IDR distributions paid by Antero Midstream relating to periods prior to May 9, 2017, the closing of our IPO, were distributed to Antero Investment prior to its liquidation.

 

(5)   Cash Distributions

 

The following table details the amount of quarterly distributions AMGP paid with respect to the quarter indicated (in thousands, except per unit data):

 

* Income relating to periods prior to May 9, 2017, the closing of our IPO, was distributed to Antero Investment prior to its liquidation.

 

The board of directors of our general partner has declared a cash distribution of $0.059 per share for the quarter ended September 30, 2017. The distribution will be payable on November 23, 2017 to shareholders of record as of November 1, 2017.

 

 

(6)   Related Party Transactions

 

Certain of AMGP’s shareholders, including members of its executive management group, own a significant interest in AMGP and, either through their representatives or directly, serve as members of the Board of Directors of Antero Resources and the Boards of Directors of the general partners of Antero Midstream and AMGP.  These same groups or individuals own common stock in Antero Resources and limited partner interests in Antero Midstream.  AMGP’s executive management group also manages the operations and business affairs of Antero Resources and Antero Midstream.

(a) Accounts receivable – related party

 

Accounts receivable at December 31, 2016 and September 30, 2017 includes general and administrative expenses of $0.2 million and $0, respectively, paid by AMGP on behalf of Antero Investment prior to its liquidation. In the nine months ended September 30, 2017, a $0.4 million receivable was settled as part of the Antero Investment liquidation distribution.

 

(b) Accounts payable

 

Accounts payable at December 31, 2016 and September 30, 2017 includes $0.3 million and $0, respectively, payable to Antero Resources for general and administrative expenses.

 

(7)   Summarized Financial Information for Antero Midstream

 

Summarized financial information for Antero Midstream, our investee accounted for using the equity method of accounting, is included in this note. The following tables present summarized income statement and balance sheet information for Antero Midstream (in thousands).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item 2.   Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

 

You should read the following discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations in conjunction with the condensed consolidated financial statements, and notes thereto, included elsewhere in this report. The information provided below supplements, but does not form part of, our condensed consolidated financial statements. This discussion contains forward looking statements that are based on the views and beliefs of our management, as well as assumptions and estimates made by our management. Actual results could differ materially from such forward looking statements as a result of various risk factors, including those that may not be in the control of management. For further information on these items that could impact our future operating performance or financial condition, please see “Item 1A. Risk Factors” and the section entitled “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward Looking Statements.” We do not undertake any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements except as otherwise required by applicable law. For more information please refer to the final prospectus dated May 3, 2017, filed with the SEC on May 5, 2017, our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2017 and Antero Midstream’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017.

 

Overview

 

We are a Delaware limited partnership that is taxed as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes. We own 100% of the membership interests in Antero Midstream Partners GP LLC, which owns the non-economic general partner interest in Antero Midstream Partners LP (NYSE: AM) (“Antero Midstream”) and we own all of the Series A capital interests (“Series A Units”) in Antero IDR Holdings LLC (“IDR LLC”), which owns the incentive distribution rights (“IDRs”) in Antero Midstream. IDR LLC also has Series B profits interests (“Series B Units”) outstanding that entitle the holders to receive up to 6% of the distributions that Antero Midstream makes on the IDRs in excess of $7.5 million per quarter, subject to certain vesting conditions. Antero Midstream is a growth-oriented master limited partnership 53.0% owned by Antero Resources Corporation (NYSE: AR) (“Antero Resources”) and formed to own, operate and develop midstream energy infrastructure primarily to service Antero Resources’ rapidly increasing production and completion activity in the Appalachian Basin’s Marcellus Shale and Utica Shale located in West Virginia and Ohio. We believe that Antero Midstream’s strategically located assets and integrated relationship with Antero Resources position it to be a leading Appalachian midstream provider across the full midstream value chain.

 

Our revenues are generated solely from the cash distributions we receive from Antero Midstream through our interests in IDR LLC. Because our success is dependent upon the operations and management of Antero Midstream and its resulting performance, Antero Midstream’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2017, has been included in this filing as Exhibit 99.1 and incorporated herein by reference.

 

Address, Internet Website and Availability of Public Filings

 

Our principal executive offices are at 1615 Wynkoop Street, Denver, Colorado 80202. Our telephone number is (303) 357‑7310. Our website is located at www.anteromidstreamgp.com.

 

We make available free of charge our Annual Reports on Form 10‑K, our Quarterly Reports on Form 10‑Q and our Current Reports on Form 8‑K as soon as reasonably practicable after we file such material with, or furnish it to, the SEC. These documents are located on our website under the “Investors Relations” link.

 

Information on our website is not incorporated into this Quarterly Report on Form 10‑Q or our other filings with the SEC and is not a part of them.

 

Third Quarter 2017 Developments and Highlights

 

Cash Distributions

 

We distribute cash available for distribution to our shareholders. Cash available for distribution is the cash distribution received from Antero Midstream reduced by reserves for estimated federal and state income taxes, general and

administrative expenses, and reserves for other purposes deemed necessary by the board of directors of our general partner. Distributable cash for the three months ended September 30, 2017 was as follows (in thousands):

 

 

The board of directors of our general partner has declared a cash distribution of $0.059 per share for the quarter ended September 30, 2017. The distribution will be payable on November 23, 2017 to shareholders of record as of November 1, 2017.

 

Items Affecting Comparability of Our Financial Results

 

Certain of the historical financial results discussed below may not be comparable to future financial results primarily as a result of the significant increase in the scope of Antero Midstream’s operations over the last several years. Antero Midstream’s gathering and compression and water handling and treatment systems are relatively new, as a substantial portion of these assets have built within the last four years. Accordingly, Antero Midstream’s revenues and expenses over that time reflect the significant increase in operations. Similarly, Antero Resources has experienced significant changes in its production and drilling and completion schedule over that same period. As our revenue is predicated on Antero Midstream’s cash available for distribution, any change in Antero Midstream’s revenue and expenses could have a direct impact on us. Accordingly, it may be difficult to project trends from our historical financial data going forward. In addition, our historical results of operations do not reflect the incremental expenses we expect to incur as a result of being a publicly traded company.

 

Results of Operations

 

Three Months Ended September 30, 2016 Compared to Three Months Ended September 30, 2017 (in thousands):

 

 

Equity in earnings of Antero Midstream Partners LP. Equity in earnings of Antero Midstream increased from $4.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016 to $19.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2017. Antero Midstream’s per-unit distribution increased from $0.265 per unit in the third quarter of 2016 to $0.34 in the third quarter of 2017, resulting in the increase in distributions on the IDRs and resulting increase in our equity in earnings of Antero Midstream.

 

General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses increased from $0.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016 to $0.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2017. In the third quarter of 2016, we did not incur any significant general and administrative costs; however, in the third quarter of 2017, we incurred general and administrative costs related to being a publicly-traded entity.

 

Equity-based compensation expenses. Equity-based compensation expenses increased from zero for the three months ended September 30, 2016 to $8.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2017. The increase was due to the issuance of equity-based compensation in the form of Series B Units. See Note 3 to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

Income tax expense. Income tax expense increased from $1.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016 to $7.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2017. The increase is primarily due to higher taxable income as a result of the increase in equity in earnings of Antero Midstream related to the IDRs.

 

The difference between income tax expense and expected income tax expense for financial statement purposes computed by applying the federal statutory rate of 35% to pre-tax income is caused by nondeductible equity-based compensation and IPO expenses, and the effect of state income taxes.

 

Net income and comprehensive income. Net income and comprehensive income increased from net income of $2.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016 to net income of $3.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2017. The increase was primarily due to an increase in equity in earnings of Antero in the third quarter of 2017, offset by the increase in equity-based compensation and income tax expense.

 

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016 Compared to Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 (in thousands):

 

 

Equity in earnings of Antero Midstream Partners LP. Equity in earnings of Antero Midstream increased from $9.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 to $46.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017. Antero Midstream’s per-unit distribution increased in the nine months ended September 30, 2017 from the nine months ended September 30, 2016, resulting in the increase in distributions on the IDRs and resulting increase in our equity in earnings of Antero Midstream.

 

General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses increased from $0.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 to $5.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017. In the first nine months of 2016 we did not incur any significant general and administrative costs; however, in the first nine months of 2017, we incurred approximately $5.1 million of general and administrative costs in connection with our IPO and $0.8 million of expenses related to being a public company.

 

Equity-based compensation expenses. Equity-based compensation expenses increased from zero for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 to $26.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017. The increase was due to the issuance of equity-based compensation in the form of Series B Units. See Note 3 to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

Income tax expense. Income tax expense increased from $3.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 to $17.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017. The increase is primarily due to higher taxable income as a result of the increase in equity in earnings of Antero Midstream related to the IDRs.

 

The difference between income tax expense and expected income tax expense for financial statement purposes computed by applying the federal statutory rate of 35% to pre-tax income is caused by nondeductible equity-based compensation and IPO expenses, and the effect of state income taxes.

 

Net income (loss) and comprehensive income (loss). Net income (loss) and comprehensive income (loss) decreased from net income of $5.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 to a net loss of $3.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017. The decrease was primarily due to an increase in equity-based compensation, general and administrative expenses, and income tax expense, partially offset by the increase in equity in earnings of Antero Midstream in 2017.

 

Capital Resources and Liquidity

 

Sources and Uses of Cash

 

As a result of our interest in IDR LLC, we will receive at least 94% of the cash distributions paid by Antero Midstream on the IDRs. Our interest in the IDR distributions is our only cash-generating asset.  We expect that the cash distributions on the IDRs will be adequate to meet our working capital requirements and expected quarterly cash distributions for at least the next twelve months. At September 30, 2017, we had a working capital deficit due to our

income tax payable, which is based on equity in earnings from unconsolidated affiliates for the three months ended September 30, 2017. The cash distribution attributable to our equity in earnings for the three months ended September 30, 2017 will be received in the fourth quarter of 2017 when Antero Midstream declares and pays the cash distribution for the third quarter. On October 11, 2017, Antero Midstream declared a cash distribution that included an IDR distribution of $19.1 million payable to IDR LLC on November 16, 2017.

 

Cash Flows Provided by Operating Activities

 

Net cash provided by operating activities was $5.1 million and $13.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2017, respectively. The increase in cash flow from operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2016 was primarily due to increased distributions from Antero Midstream of $28.9 million, offset by an increase in general and administrative expenses (primarily attributable to the IPO) of $5.5 million, $15.1 million of cash paid in 2017 for 2016 and 2017 income taxes, and other working capital items.

 

Cash Flows Used in Investing Activities

 

We did not have any investing cash flow activities during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 or 2017.

 

Cash Flows Used in Financing Activities

 

Net cash used in financing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 consisted of $15.7 million in pre-IPO income distributed to Antero Investment prior to its liquidation and $5.0 million in quarterly cash distributions to our shareholders. We did not have any financing cash flow activities during the nine months ended September 30, 2016.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

The discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon our financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with GAAP. The preparation of our financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. Certain accounting policies involve judgments and uncertainties to such an extent that there is reasonable likelihood that materially different amounts could have been reported under different conditions, or if different assumptions had been used. We evaluate our estimates and assumptions on a regular basis. We base our estimates on historical experience and various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates and assumptions used in preparation of our financial statements.

 

Equity-Based Compensation

 

Equity-based compensation awards are measured at their grant date fair value and related compensation cost is recognized over the vesting period of the grant. Compensation cost for awards with only service conditions is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period of the entire award. Estimating the fair value of each award involves a number of significant estimates including interest rates, expected volatility of our equity value, and expected distributions on the Series B Units.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of September 30, 2017, we did not have any off-balance sheet arrangements.

 

 

Item 3.   Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.

 

The nature of our business and operations is such that no activities or transactions are conducted or entered into by us that would require us to have a discussion under this item.

For a discussion of these matters as they pertain to Antero Midstream, please read Item 3. “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” of Antero Midstream’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2017, which has been included in this filing as Exhibit 99.1 and incorporated herein by reference, as the activities of Antero Midstream have a significant impact on our results of operations and financial position.

Item 4.   Controls and Procedures.

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

As required by Rule 13a‑15(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), we have evaluated, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a‑15(e) and 15d‑15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report. Our disclosure controls and procedures are designed to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure and is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. Based upon that evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of September 30, 2017 at a reasonable assurance level.

 

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a‑15(f) and 15d‑15(f) under the Exchange Act) during the third quarter of 2017 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

Item 5.   Other Information.

 

Amended and Restated Antero Midstream Credit Facility

On October 26, 2017, Antero Midstream entered into an amendment and restatement of its revolving credit facility (as amended, the “Credit Facility”). For a description of the Credit Facility, see “—Debt Agreements—Revolving Credit Facility” in Antero Midstream’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2017, which has been included in this filing as Exhibit 99.1 and incorporated herein by reference.. The description of the Credit Facility is a summary and is qualified in its entirety by the terms of the Credit Facility. A copy of the Credit Facility is filed as Exhibit 10.1 hereto, and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

 

 

PART II—OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1.   Legal Proceedings.

 

Our operations are subject to a variety of risks and disputes normally incident to our business. As a result, we may, at any given time, be a defendant in various legal proceedings and litigation arising in the ordinary course of business. However, we are not currently subject to any material litigation.

 

Item 1A. Risk Factors. 

 

We are subject to the risks set forth in our prospectus dated May 3, 2017 and filed with the SEC on May 5, 2017 that were set forth under the caption “Risk Factors.” The risks described in our prospectus could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, cash flows, and results of operations. There have been no material changes to the risks described in our prospectus and under the heading “Risk Factors” in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2017 and in Antero Midstream’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2017 and June 30, 2017. We may experience additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us, or, as a result of developments occurring in the future, conditions that we currently deem to be immaterial may also materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, cash flows and results of operations.

 

Item 5.   Other Information. 

 

Disclosure pursuant to Section 13(r) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

 

Pursuant to Section 13(r) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, we may be required to disclose in our annual and quarterly reports to the SEC, whether we or any of our “affiliates” knowingly engaged in certain activities, transactions or dealings relating to Iran or with certain individuals or entities targeted by U.S. economic sanctions. Disclosure is generally required even where the activities, transactions or dealings were conducted in compliance with applicable law. Because the SEC defines the term “affiliate” broadly, it includes any entity under common “control” with us (and the term “control” is also construed broadly by the SEC).

 

The description of the activities below has been provided to us by Warburg Pincus LLC (“Warburg”), affiliates of which: (i) beneficially own more than 10% of our outstanding common shares and/or are members of our general partner’s board of directors, (ii) beneficially own more than 10% of the equity interests of, and have the right to designate members of the board of directors of Santander Asset Management Investment Holdings Limited (“SAMIH”). SAMIH may therefore be deemed to be under common “control” with us; however, this statement is not meant to be an admission that common control exists.

 

The disclosure below relates solely to activities conducted by SAMIH and its affiliates. The disclosure does not relate to any activities conducted by us or by Warburg and does not involve our or Warburg’s management. Neither we nor Warburg has had any involvement in or control over the disclosed activities, and neither we nor Warburg has independently verified or participated in the preparation of the disclosure. Neither we nor Warburg is representing as to the accuracy or completeness of the disclosure nor do we or Warburg undertake any obligation to correct or update it.

 

We understand that one or more SEC-reporting affiliates of SAMIH intend to disclose in their next annual or quarterly SEC report that:

 

a) Santander UK plc (“Santander UK”) holds two savings accounts and one current account for two customers resident in the United Kingdom (“UK”) who are currently designated by the United States (“US”) under the Specially Designated Global Terrorist (“SDGT”) sanctions program. Revenues and profits generated by Santander UK on these accounts in the nine month period ended September 30, 2017 were negligible relative to the overall revenues and profits of Banco Santander SA.

(b) Santander UK holds two frozen current accounts for two UK nationals who are designated by the US under the SDGT sanctions program. The accounts held by each customer have been frozen since their designation and have remained frozen through the nine month period ended September 30, 2017. The accounts are in arrears

(£1,844.73 in debit combined) and are currently being managed by Santander UK Collections & Recoveries department. No revenues or profits were generated by Santander UK on this account in the nine month period ended September 30, 2017.

Item 6.   Exhibits.

 

The exhibits marked with the asterisk symbol (*) are filed or furnished with this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.