California Resources (CRC) - 2025 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported record quarterly returns to shareholders, returning nearly $290 million this quarter, which is more than 260% of its free cash flow [5] - Adjusted EBITDAX for the quarter was $324 million, exceeding consensus expectations, driven by strong commodity price realization, higher than expected production, and lower operating costs [12] - Free cash flow generated was $109 million, demonstrating the resilience and cash-generating power of the company's assets [12] - Year-to-date, the company has returned nearly $422 million to shareholders, with a record $287 million returned in the second quarter [13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company recorded net total production of 137,000 BOE per day, with average realizations at 97% of Brent before hedges and 100% after hedging [10] - First half 2025 costs were down approximately 11% from 2024, reflecting lower general and administrative expenses, lower non-energy operating costs, and lower taxes other than on income [11] - Total capital was $56 million, with 60% allocated to high return workovers and sidetracks [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The California Energy Commission is actively working to improve the oil and gas permitting process, which could provide greater flexibility for the company to access its extensive inventory [8] - The state is collaborating with refiners and the industry to ensure fuel reliability during the energy transition [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on advancing its carbon and power platforms while returning meaningful capital to shareholders [4] - The company is strategically positioned to support California's energy transition, providing cleaner and more affordable in-state production while advancing decarbonization solutions [18] - The company plans to get California's first CCS project into operation, with construction authorization received from the EPA [16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the improving regulatory environment in California and the potential for new oil and gas permits [22] - The company expects to raise full-year production guidance, lower both cost and drilling capital expectations, and increase its adjusted EBITDAX forecast [14] - Management highlighted the importance of local production to address California's energy challenges, emphasizing the need for affordable and clean energy [23] Other Important Information - The company has slightly over $200 million remaining under its current share repurchase authorization, which was recently extended through June 2026 [14] - The company is committed to driving long-term shareholder value and providing shareholder returns, having returned about $1.5 billion in dividends and share repurchases since the inception of its program [38] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the company's view on the regulatory changes in California regarding oil and gas permitting? - Management is optimistic about the changes and believes the state is actively looking to resolve the permitting situation to stabilize local production [22][24] Question: What is driving the underlying capital efficiency improvements? - The combination of strong assets and operational leadership has led to improved performance, with maintenance capital expected to be at the lower end of the previously guided range [28] Question: How does the company plan to allocate free cash flow going forward? - The company plans to remain opportunistic with share repurchases while balancing other strategic priorities, including redeeming the remainder of its 2026 notes [40] Question: What is the status of the Class six permitting process? - The company is encouraged by the progress and expects to receive incremental Class six permits in the near term [72] Question: How does the company view the potential Elk Hills power deal? - The company is focused on making the right deal that adds significant value to shareholders and is optimistic about the interest in clean power solutions [50][54]