EOG Resources(EOG) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported adjusted net income of $1.6 billion and generated free cash flow of $1.3 billion in Q1 2025, highlighting strong financial performance [6][14] - Adjusted earnings per share were $2.87, and adjusted cash flow per share was $5.90 [14] - The company returned $1.3 billion to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases, demonstrating commitment to value creation [6][14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The first quarter saw strong performance across the multi-basin portfolio, with production and cash operating costs exceeding targets [5][18] - The company plans to maintain oil production levels throughout 2025 while optimizing capital investments, expecting approximately 2% year-over-year oil growth [8][19] - The Dorado dry gas asset in South Texas showed improved productivity, contributing to overall volume outperformance [18][20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global oil demand remained strong, while U.S. supply growth moderated, supporting a positive medium to long-term outlook for oil and gas [9][10] - The company anticipates a compound annual growth rate of 4% to 6% in natural gas demand through the end of the decade, driven by LNG and increased power demand [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company emphasizes capital discipline and operational excellence as core pillars of its value proposition, optimizing capital investments to enhance shareholder returns [7][27] - EOG is pursuing organic exploration programs and strategic bolt-on acquisitions to expand its inventory and improve productivity [12][22] - The company is committed to sustainability, aiming to reduce GHG emissions intensity by 25% by 2030 and maintain near-zero methane emissions for 2025 [25][26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains constructive on oil and gas's role in providing reliable low-cost energy, despite near-term price speculation due to tariff discussions [10] - The company is well-positioned for future cycles with a strong financial position and low-cost structure, allowing flexibility in capital allocation [7][19] - Management expressed confidence in the ability to generate free cash flow and maintain shareholder returns even in a challenging macro environment [32][35] Other Important Information - The company has reduced its 2025 capital investment plan by $200 million, now expecting to generate $4 billion in free cash flow at $65 WTI and $3.75 Henry Hub [15][16] - EOG's cash balance at the end of Q1 was $6.6 billion, with long-term debt at $4.7 billion, indicating a strong balance sheet [16] Q&A Session Summary Question: Insights on capital reduction decision - Management clarified that the decision to reduce capital expenditures is a function of capital discipline to protect shareholder returns rather than a reflection of deteriorating economics [31][32] Question: Future cash return strategy in a tougher macro environment - Management reiterated their commitment to returning over 100% of free cash flow to shareholders, remaining opportunistic with share buybacks [34][35] Question: Clarification on cumulative free cash flow targets - Management indicated that the three-year cumulative free cash flow scenario is not guidance but reflects a directionally accurate outlook based on current performance [39][40] Question: Acquisition opportunities in a downturn - Management stated that they do not see buybacks and acquisitions as mutually exclusive, focusing on creating shareholder value through both avenues [50][51] Question: Long-term growth outlook for Trinidad assets - Management expressed confidence in the Trinidad assets, highlighting consistent investment and operational expertise in the region [54][55] Question: Capital allocation in a weak oil market - Management remains optimistic about natural gas and is focused on maintaining low-cost structures while investing in gas assets like Dorado [58][60] Question: Returns comparison between Dorado and oil plays - Management confirmed that Dorado offers compelling returns at $4 gas, comparable to oil plays at $55, emphasizing the importance of low-cost reserves [69][70]