Is PrimeEnergy Stock a Smart Bet Amid Oil Slump & Gas Growth?

Core Viewpoint - PrimeEnergy Resources Corporation (PNRG) has shown resilience in a challenging oil market, outperforming its peers and focusing on expanding its natural gas production while managing share buybacks to reward investors [1][2][16]. Company Performance - PNRG stock has increased by 14.9% over the past year, contrasting with a 13.9% decline in the industry [1]. - The company has faced declining crude prices, impacting earnings and margins, yet it has maintained solid cash flow and is actively repurchasing shares [2][9]. - For the first half of 2025, PNRG reported revenues of $92 million, down from $107.8 million the previous year, with net income decreasing to $12.4 million from $31.1 million [8]. Production and Investment Strategy - PNRG is focusing on its core assets in the Permian Basin, emphasizing horizontal drilling to enhance production while minimizing environmental impact [3]. - The company plans to invest $129 million in 43 horizontal wells in 2025, an increase from $113 million in 2024 and $96 million in 2023 [4]. - Between 2023 and 2025, PNRG projects a total investment of $338 million in horizontal development, primarily in West Texas [5]. Market Environment - The U.S. Energy Information Administration forecasts Brent crude prices to average $58 per barrel in Q4 2025, potentially dropping to $50 in early 2026 due to oversupply [10]. - In contrast, natural gas prices are expected to rise, with Henry Hub spot prices projected to reach $4.30 per MMBtu in 2026, supported by increased LNG exports [10]. - PNRG's growth in natural gas and NGL production is helping to balance revenues against the volatility of oil prices [11]. Valuation Metrics - PNRG is currently trading at a trailing 12-month EV/EBITDA ratio of 1.89X, significantly lower than the industry average of 11.19X and its peers, indicating potential undervaluation [12].