Comstock Resources(CRK)2025-05-01 16:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q1 2025, Comstock Resources reported natural gas and oil sales of $405 million, a 21% increase compared to the previous year [9][11] - Adjusted EBITDAX for the quarter was $293 million, with adjusted net income of $53.8 million or $0.18 per diluted share, a significant recovery from a loss in Q1 2024 [10][11] - Production averaged 1.28 Bcfe per day, reflecting a 17% decrease from Q1 2024 due to a reduction in rig count and deferred completion activities [10][11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company turned 14 wells to sales since the last update, with an average initial production rate of 25 million cubic feet per day [10] - The Elijah One well, turned to sales with an initial production rate of 41 million cubic feet per day, marks a significant step in delineating the Western Haynesville play [8][26] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The average NYMEX settlement price for natural gas was $3.65, while the average Henry Hub spot price was $4.27, with realized gas prices at $3.58 [11][12] - The company was 54% hedged, which impacted the realized gas price, resulting in a loss of $16 million on third-party gas marketing due to market volatility [12][13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Comstock is focused on building its assets in the Western Haynesville to capitalize on the growing demand for natural gas, with plans to drill 20 wells and turn 15 to sales in 2025 [42][43] - The company aims to develop its own midstream assets to capture more value from its Western Haynesville operations [9][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the long-term growth in natural gas demand, particularly for power generation and LNG feedstock [7][42] - The company anticipates improved leverage ratios and financial performance due to higher natural gas prices and a strong hedge position [16][44] Other Important Information - Comstock has invested over $1 billion in developing its 520,000 net acres in the Western Haynesville [7] - The company reported a greenhouse gas intensity improvement of 28% and a methane emission intensity rate improvement of 2.5% compared to 2023 [38][39] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the reservoir quality of the Elijuan well compared to previous wells? - Management indicated that the reservoir quality of the Elijuan well appears as good as those in the core area, with good thickness and geological support for the drilling decision [50][51] Question: What is the structure and value of the BKV partnership? - The partnership aims to develop carbon capture projects, enhancing the attractiveness of the location for potential power generation facilities [59][60] Question: When can we expect another result in the Western Haynesville area? - The next well is planned to be spud in Q4 2025, with further drilling contingent on midstream infrastructure development [66] Question: How many rigs can the Western Haynesville support in the future? - Management believes that with the right conditions, the area could support 15 to 20 new wells annually, focusing on prudent development [94][95]