Q1 2026 loss but cash builds at Helix Energy (NYSE: HLX)
Rhea-AI Filing Summary
Helix Energy Solutions Group reported first quarter 2026 revenue of $287.9 million, up slightly from a year ago, but posted a net loss of $13.4 million, or $(0.09) per diluted share, versus net income in both Q4 2025 and Q1 2025.
Adjusted EBITDA was $32.3 million, down from $73.9 million in Q4 2025 and $52.0 million in Q1 2025 as seasonal slowdowns, higher project costs and vessel reactivations weighed on margins. Despite lower earnings, Helix generated $59.0 million of Free Cash Flow and ended the quarter with $501.3 million in cash and negative Net Debt of $197.5 million, giving it substantial liquidity to pursue future opportunities in offshore well intervention, robotics and decommissioning.
Positive
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Insights
Seasonal margin pressure drives a small loss, but cash and liquidity remain strong.
Helix moved from prior-period profitability to a Q1 2026 net loss of $13.4 million, even as revenue held at $287.9 million. Lower gross margin, higher selling and administrative expenses, and project costs, including the Thunder Hawk workover, compressed earnings.
Operationally, Adjusted EBITDA fell to $32.3 million, but the business still produced $59.0 million of Free Cash Flow. Cash rose to $501.3 million with negative Net Debt of $197.5 million as of March 31, 2026, supporting future activity even amid ongoing macro uncertainties.






















