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油价新锚点——美国页岩油盈亏平衡点 | 投研报告
Zhong Guo Neng Yuan Wang·2025-06-12 07:48

Core Viewpoint - The report highlights the sensitivity of U.S. shale oil activity to oil prices, particularly under $60 per barrel, indicating that a $1 change in WTI price could risk 4-5 drilling rigs and 2-3 hydraulic fracturing platforms [1][3]. Group 1: Oil Price Impact - The IEA model shows a better linear relationship between the number of rigs and the lagged WTI price when the price is below $60 [1][3]. - In April-May 2025, WTI oil prices fell by approximately $10 per barrel, leading to a notable decline in the number of U.S. drilling rigs [1][3]. - By early June, the number of oil rigs decreased by 42 compared to the end of March, while natural gas rigs increased by 11 [1][3]. Group 2: Capital Expenditure Adjustments - U.S. shale oil companies have been maintaining capital expenditure discipline, with many lowering their annual capital expenditure guidance following the drop in oil prices [2]. - Despite the reduction in capital expenditure guidance, the production guidance for oil and gas remained largely unchanged, although some companies plan to reduce oil rig counts while increasing natural gas rig counts [2]. Group 3: Production Costs and Breakeven Points - In Q1 2025, shale oil production costs continued to experience deflation, attributed to reduced rig counts, lower oil prices, and declining service costs [4]. - The latest analysis indicates that the breakeven oil prices for major shale oil companies range from $45 to $62 per barrel, with an average of $54 per barrel, slightly lower than in 2024 [5]. - The highest breakeven point is noted for Western Oil at $62 per barrel [5]. Group 4: Production Willingness - Shale oil companies are likely to increase production only if oil prices rise to the $65-$70 range [7]. - In the $50-$60 range, companies may maintain current activity levels but could slightly reduce rig counts while focusing on efficiency [7]. - Below $50, a significant reduction in production is anticipated [7].