SM Energy Company (SM) 2025 Conference Transcript

Summary of Conference Call Company Overview - The company has focused on identifying, owning, and developing high return assets while maintaining a leadership position in sustainability and stewardship [1][2] - The company operates primarily in the Lower 48 states and emphasizes operational execution and capital efficiency [2] Key Highlights Operational Performance - The company has a strong track record in geoscience and engineering, which has allowed it to identify and exploit overlooked opportunities in various basins [2][3] - In Howard County, the number of horizontal wells increased from 79 to over 4,900 in less than a decade, demonstrating significant growth and attractive economics [4] - The Austin Chalk play in Webb and Dimmit Counties saw breakeven prices drop from $80 per barrel to $44, showcasing the impact of technology and improved understanding of the geology [5][6] Uinta Basin Development - The Uinta Basin is viewed as the next significant opportunity, with extensive data from over 8,500 vertical wells aiding in derisking [7][8] - The company has about 200 horizontal wells in the lower cube of the Uinta Basin, with competitive margins similar to the Permian Basin [9] - The integration of operations in the Uinta Basin has led to improved capital efficiency and record pumping times [17][18] Technology and Optimization - The company employs advanced technology and data analysis to optimize well designs, resulting in better performance compared to peers [10][12] - Cumulative oil production per 10,000 feet of lateral was reported to be 32% better in Howard County and 42% better in the Austin Chalk compared to peer-operated wells [13] Financial Strategy - The company aims to maximize free cash flow while managing capital allocation across different basins [24][30] - Hedging strategies have been enhanced, with over 40% of oil hedged for the next year to mitigate risks associated with commodity price volatility [26][29] - The company plans to focus on debt repayment before resuming stock buybacks, with a target of achieving a 1x leverage ratio [22][50] Industry Context - The company is navigating a challenging macroeconomic environment with lower oil prices and economic uncertainty, but maintains its operational budget [23][24] - There is a measured approach to capital allocation, with potential shifts towards gas-focused plays if market conditions improve [30][32] Additional Insights - The company has seen slight cost deflation in specific service areas, but labor costs remain unchanged [55] - The use of simul frac technology is being maximized where feasible, particularly in the Uinta Basin [58][59] - The company has a strong ESG score, ranking number one among oil-focused operators [21] Conclusion - The company is well-positioned to capitalize on its operational strengths and technological advancements while navigating the current market challenges. The focus on capital efficiency, debt reduction, and strategic hedging will be crucial for future growth and shareholder value creation.