IHS Holding's Q4 2024: Contradictions in CapEx Plans, Asset Strategies, and Strategic Direction

These are the key contradictions discussed in IHS Holding Limited's latest 2024Q4 earnings call, specifically including: Carrier CapEx and Network Spending, Asset Monetization, Carryover Effects from Previous Initiatives, Asset Sale Targets, and Strategic Review:



Revenue Growth and Strategic Review:
- IHS Holding Limited reported 48% organic growth in revenue for 2024, with a 9.2% constant currency growth in the fourth quarter.
- This growth was driven by strong structural trends like 5G deployment and macroeconomic stabilization in Nigeria, as well as the commencement of significant commercial customer contracts.

Profitability and Cash Flow Generation:
- The company's adjusted EBITDA reached $928 million in 2024, with a margin of 54.3%, and generated $304 million of ALFCF.
- The improvement in profitability was due to a strong operational focus, financial discipline, and a reduction in CapEx, despite macroeconomic headwinds.

Financial Leverage and Debt Management:
- IHS's net leverage ratio decreased to 3.7 times at the end of 2024 from 3.9 times at the end of Q3 2024.
- This decline was due to significant refinancing efforts that pushed out debt maturities and shifted more of the debt into local currency.

Portfolio Strategy and Asset Sales:
- IHS aims to raise $500 million to $1 billion through strategic asset disposals, with the Kuwait disposal providing an initial $230 million.
- This strategy is part of a broader plan to optimize the portfolio, focus on core markets, and reduce leverage.