UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10‑Q

 

(Mark One)

 

 

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2018

 

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 April 20, 2018, there were 186,199,995 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 owns the incentive distribution rights (“IDRs”) in Antero Midstream. IDR distributions earned by us through May 9, 2017, net of any related liabilities including income taxes through that date and expenses of the IPO, were distributed to Antero Resources Investment LLC (“Antero Investment”), the sole member of ARMM for all periods prior to the IPO. Antero Investment was liquidated on October 31, 2017.

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 and actual results may vary materially. When considering these forward-looking statements, you should keep in mind the risk factors and other cautionary statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. 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 52.9% 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 both Antero Midstream and Antero Resources will also affect us and our ability to pay distributions to our common shareholders. 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 flows and access to capital, the timing of development expenditures, and the other risks described under “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017 (the “2017 Form 10-K”) on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), as well as in Antero Midstream’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 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, 2017 and  March 31, 2018

(Unaudited)

(In thousands, except number of shares and units)

 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

Antero Midstream GP LP

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income

Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 and 2018

(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

Three Months Ended March 31, 2018

(Unaudited)

(In thousands)

 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

Antero Midstream GP LP

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 and 2018

(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 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 (see Note 3—Long-Term Incentive Plans). 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.

 

Our only income results from distributions made on the IDRs of Antero Midstream. The 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 managed by our general partner, AMGP GP LLC (“AMGP GP”), which establishes the quarterly cash distribution payable to shareholders. AMGP GP has a board of directors appointed by the entities and individuals that collectively own 100% of the membership interest in our general partner (the “Sponsors”). 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.

 

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 and a 50% equity interest in a joint venture to develop processing and fractionation assets with MarkWest Energy Partners, L.P. 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 consolidated financial statements and notes thereto presented in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017, as well as Antero Midstream’s unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements presented in its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2018.

 

(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 consolidated 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, the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include all adjustments (consisting of normal and recurring accruals) considered necessary to present fairly our financial position as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, and our results of operations and cash flows for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2018. 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 March 31, 2018 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, we completed our 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 results. 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 Antero Midstream. Antero Resources owns approximately 52.9% 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 handling and treatment, services to Antero Midstream on a fixed-fee basis. Such dedications cover a substantial portion of Antero Resources’ 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.  Additionally, 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 substantive 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 indirect ownership of the IDRs of Antero Midstream entitles us to receive cash distributions from Antero Midstream when distributions exceed certain target amounts. Our ownership of these interests does 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 the 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 the 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. Income related to the IDRs is recognized as earned and increases our capital account and equity investment. When these distributions are paid to us, they reduce our capital account 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 income, expenses, assets, and liabilities. Changes in facts and circumstances or discovery of new information may result in revised estimates, and 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 and IPO costs 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 21% for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2018 respectively, and the effective rate of income tax expense for financial reporting purposes.

 

(f)   General and Administrative Expenses

 

General and administrative costs incurred 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. Additionally, in connection with the formation of a special committee of the board of directors of our general partner to consider potential transactions involving us in connection with Antero Resources’ and Antero Midstream’s ongoing efforts to explore, review, and evaluate potential measures related to its valuation, the special committee has retained an investment advisor and attorneys. The agreement with the investment advisor calls for a $2 million retainer fee which we are charging to expense over the expected duration of the advisor’s services. Attorneys’ fees will be charged to expense as incurred.

 

(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, which 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 common shareholders 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 Series B Units, calculated using the if-converted 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.

 

Based on AMGP’s market capitalization as of March 31, 2018, 3,983,579 AMGP shares would be issuable upon conversion of all outstanding Series B Units. The effect of these awards is anti-dilutive for the three months ended March 31, 2018, and thus our diluted net income per common share for the three months ended March 31, 2018 is equal to our basic net income per common share.

 

 

(3)   Long-Term Incentive Plans

 

As of March 31, 2018, 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 has granted 92,000 Series B Units that are equity classified awards and 8,000 Series B Units that are liability classified awards. As of March 31, 2018, 500 Series B Units that were equity classified awards have been forfeited, and 900 Series B Units that were liability classified awards have been forfeited. The Series B Units vest ratably over a three year period. As of March 31, 2018, 32,875 Series B Units have vested. 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. 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.

 

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 March 31, 2018, the fair value of the liability classified Series B Unit awards was estimated using a Monte Carlo simulation using various assumptions including an equity value of $3.0 billion, expected volatility of 38% based on historical volatility of a peer group of publicly traded partnerships, a risk free rate of 2.70%, 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 March 31, 2018 was $1,574.  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 $8.4 million, of which $7.6 million was for equity classified awards and $0.8 million was for liability classified awards, during the three months ended March 31, 2018. We recognized expense of $8.3 million, of which $7.7 million was for equity classified awards and $0.6 million was for liability classified awards, during the three months ended March 31, 2017. As of March 31, 2018, there was $59.3 million of unamortized compensation expense related to nonvested Series B Units that is expected to be recognized over the next 1.75 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 March 31, 2018, 19,486 common shares have been granted. We recognized zero and $0.2 million in expense related to these grants in the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2018, respectively. As of March 31, 2018, 911,365 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 common unit for each quarter, or $0.68 per unit on an annualized basis.

 

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:

 

 

Distributions per common unit and distributions related to the IDRs were as follows for the periods indicated:

 

 

The board of directors of Antero Midstream’s general partner has declared a cash distribution of $0.39 per unit for the quarter ended March 31, 2018. The distribution will be payable on May 18, 2018 to unitholders of record as of May 3, 2018. The distribution attributable to the IDRs for the quarter ended March 31, 2018 is $28.5 million.

 

Distributions attributable to the IDRs which relate 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 share 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 $0.108 per share for the quarter ended March 31, 2018. The distribution will be payable on May 23, 2018 to shareholders of record as of May 3, 2018.

 

 

(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.

Accrued liabilities and accounts payable at December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018  includes less than $0.1 million and $0.1 million, 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.

 

The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with our condensed consolidated financial statements, and related notes, 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 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 Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017, filed with the SEC on February 13, 2018, and Antero Midstream’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2018.

 

References in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q to “ARMM,” “we,” “us” or like terms, when referring to periods prior to May 4, 2017, refer to our predecessor, Antero Resources Midstream Management LLC. References to “AMGP,” “we,” “us” or like terms, when referring to periods beginning on May 4, 2018 and prospectively, refer to Antero Midstream GP LP.

 

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 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. We receive at least 94% of the cash distributions paid by Antero Midstream on the IDRs. Antero Midstream is a growth-oriented master limited partnership 52.9% owned by Antero Resources Corporation (NYSE: AR) (“Antero Resources”) that was formed to own, operate and develop midstream energy infrastructure primarily to service Antero Resources’ 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 March 31, 2018, 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 furnish or file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, our Quarterly Reports on From 10-Q, and our Current Reports on Form 8-K. We make these documents available free of charge at www.anteromidstreamgp.com under the “Investors Relations” link as soon as reasonably practicable after they are filed or furnished with the SEC.

 

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.

 

First Quarter 2018 Developments and Highlights

Special Committee Formation

On February 26, 2018, we announced that the board of directors of our general partner formed a special committee comprised solely of independent directors in conjunction with the formation of special committees at both Antero Resources and at Antero Midstream.  Antero Resources’ ongoing efforts to explore, review and evaluate potential measures related to its valuation may include transactions involving us, and the special committee was established to consider any such transactions. The special committee has hired legal advisors and financial advisors to assist in its evaluation of potential measures that could involve us. However, as of the date of filing this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, no decision on any particular strategic alternative or transaction has been reached, and there is no assurance that any future agreement will be reached, or that any future strategic alternative transaction or transactions will occur.

 

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. Cash available for distribution for the three months ended March 31, 2018 was as follows (in thousands):

 

(1) General and administrative expenses related to the formation of the special committee. See Note 2—Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.

 

The board of directors of our general partner has declared a cash distribution of $0.108 per share for the quarter ended March 31, 2018. The distribution will be payable on May 23, 2018 to shareholders of record as of May 3, 2018.

 

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 been built within the last four years. Accordingly, Antero Midstream’s revenues and expenses over that time reflect the significant increase in its operations. Similarly, Antero Resources has experienced significant changes in its production and drilling and completion schedule over that same period. As our income 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.

 

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 Antero Midstream’s cash distributions. As our sole source of income, any change in Antero Midstream’s cash distributions will have a direct financial impact on us. Distributions to the IDRs began in the

fourth quarter of 2015 and have increased significantly since that time as the IDRs have been entitled to a greater marginal percentage interest in distributions.

In addition, our historical results of operations do not reflect the incremental expenses we are now incurring as a result of being a publicly traded company. Our historical results of operations also reflect a U.S. federal corporate tax rate of 35%.  Effective January 1, 2018, the U.S. federal corporate tax rate was reduced from 35% to 21%. Accordingly, our historical results of operations will reflect a higher U.S. federal corporate tax rate in comparison to our current and future financial results.

 

Results of Operations

 

Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 Compared to Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 (in thousands):

 

 

Equity in earnings of Antero Midstream Partners LP. Equity in earnings of Antero Midstream increased from $11.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017 to $28.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018. Antero Midstream’s per-unit distribution increased for the three months ended March 31, 2018 from the three months ended March 31, 2017, resulting in an increase in distributions on the IDRs. IDR LLC receives a portion of Antero Midstream distributions based on a tiered approach, in which the percentage received of the total distribution increases at certain levels. The highest tier, which was met in both periods, in which cash distributions to Antero Midstream’s unitholders exceeds $0.255 per common unit it any quarter, entitles IDR LLC to 50% of such distribution.

General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses decreased from $2.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017 to $0.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018. The decrease was primarily due to costs incurred in the first quarter of 2017 related to our IPO.

 

Equity-based compensation expenses. Equity-based compensation expenses remained relatively consistent at $8.3 million and $8.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2018.

 

Income tax expense. Income tax expense increased from $4.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017 to $6.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018. 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, partially offset by the decrease in the U.S. corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21% beginning in 2018.

The difference between income tax expense and expected income tax expense for financial statement purposes computed by applying the federal statutory rate 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) increased from a net loss of $3.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017 to net income of $12.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018. The increase was primarily due to an increase in equity in earnings of Antero Midstream in the first quarter of 2018, partially offset by the increase in equity-based compensation and income tax expense.

 

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 its IDRs. Our interest in the IDR distributions is our only cash-generating asset. We expect that income attributable to the IDR distributions from Antero Midstream will be adequate to meet our working capital requirements and expected quarterly cash distributions for at least the next twelve months. At March 31, 2018 we had a working capital deficit due to our income tax payable, which is based on equity in earnings from unconsolidated affiliates for the period ended March 31, 2018. The cash distribution attributable to our equity in earnings for the three months ended March 31, 2018 will be received in the second quarter of 2018 when Antero Midstream declares and pays the cash distribution for the first quarter, and will be received prior to the due date of our tax payment. On April 17, 2018, Antero Midstream declared a cash distribution that included an IDR distribution of $28.5 million payable to IDR LLC on May 16, 2018.

 

The following table and discussion present a summary of our combined net cash provided by (used in) operating activities and financing activities for the periods indicated:

 

 

Cash Flows Provided by Operating Activities

 

Net cash provided by operating activities was $7.1 million and $23.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2018, respectively. The increase in cash flow from operations for the three months ended March 31, 2018 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2017 was primarily due to an increase in distributions received from Antero Midstream from $7.5 million in the three months ended March 31, 2017 to $23.8 million in the three months ended March 31, 2018. This increase was partially offset by an increase in income taxes paid and other working capital items.

 

Cash Flows Used in Investing Activities

 

We did not have any investing cash flow activities during the three months ended March 31, 2017 or 2018.

 

Cash Flows Used in Financing Activities

 

Net cash used in financing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2018 consisted of $14.0 million in quarterly cash distributions to our shareholders and $0.8 million in cash distributions to the Series B Unitholders. We did not have any financing cash flow activities during the three months ended March 31, 2017.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

The discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon our condensed consolidated 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 condensed consolidated 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.

 

Equity Method Accounting

We use the equity method to account for our investment in Antero Midstream because we have the ability to exercise significant influence over, but not control, Antero Midstream. Accordingly, we record, in the period in which it is earned, distributions from Antero Midstream associated with our ownership of IDR LLC, which owns 100% of Antero Midstream’s IDRs. The financial statements of AMGP do not consolidate the accounts of Antero Midstream. The accounts of Antero Midstream, a variable interest entity, are included in the consolidated financial statements of Antero Resources, the primary beneficiary of Antero Midstream.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of March 31, 2018, 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 March 31, 2018, 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 March 31, 2018 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 first quarter of 2018 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

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 certain risks and hazards due to the nature of the business activities we conduct. For a discussion of these risks, see “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017, filed with the SEC on February 13, 2018 (the “2017 Form 10-K”). The risks described in our 2017 Form 10-K 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 2017 Form 10-K and in Antero Midstream’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 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. 

 

None.

 

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.