Coterra(US:CTRA)2025-08-05 15:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Cotera Energy reported revenues of $1.7 billion for the quarter, with 52% coming from oil production, reflecting a 7% increase in oil contribution quarter over quarter [15][18] - Net income was $511 million or $0.67 per share, while adjusted net income was $367 million or $0.48 per share for the quarter [15][18] - Cash operating costs totaled $9.34 per BOE, down 6% quarter over quarter [15][18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Oil production was 2% above the midpoint of guidance, while natural gas production exceeded the high end of guidance due to outperformance in all business units [14][15] - The Permian had 49 net turn in lines, Anadarko had 9, and Marcellus had 3 during the quarter [14][15] - The company expects total production to average between 740 and 790 MBOE per day for the year, with oil between 158 and 168 MBO per day and natural gas between 2.75 and 2.9 Bcf per day [16][17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - There has been a weakening in natural gas prices and a softening of oil markets due to the cessation of OPEC plus curtailments [8][9] - The company maintains a steady operational cadence despite commodity price fluctuations, supported by its asset quality and capital allocation discipline [8][9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Cotera aims to grow free cash flow and demonstrate its durability, with a focus on maintaining a low reinvestment rate of around 50% of cash flow [10][18] - The company is committed to a fortress balance sheet, prioritizing deleveraging and shareholder returns through dividends and share repurchases [20][21] - Cotera plans to maintain consistent activity across its business units, with a focus on capital efficiency and cost reductions [22][23] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term prospects for the industry and Cotera, despite facing headwinds [11][12] - The company anticipates a gradual recovery in oil production from the Wyndham Row wells, with a conservative approach to future forecasts [36][37] - Management highlighted the importance of maintaining operational consistency and capital efficiency in a volatile market [80][82] Other Important Information - The company announced a quarterly dividend of $0.22 per share, representing one of the highest yielding base dividends in the industry at over 3.5% [20] - Cotera has repaid $350 million of its outstanding term loans in 2025, with plans to fully repay the remaining $650 million during the year [20][21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide an update on the Harkey issues and production timeline? - Management indicated that remediation efforts have been successful, and while production will take time to return to optimal levels, they are optimistic about the Harkey program moving forward [35][36] Question: Is now the right time to lean into the gas program given current production levels? - Management noted that they see growing demand with LNG exports and believe their Marcellus program offers the best returns currently [37][38] Question: What are the expectations for oil growth in the second half of the year? - Management expressed high confidence in achieving their oil guidance, citing a strong pipeline of high working interest projects coming online [42][44] Question: How does the company view the potential for federal lease sales in New Mexico? - Management hopes to be competitive in future federal lease sales, which they view as a desirable opportunity [90][91] Question: What is the strategy regarding share buybacks and debt repayment? - Management emphasized that debt repayment is a priority, but they also see potential for increased buyback activity in the latter half of the year as cash flow remains strong [88][89]