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 [11] - Free cash flow generated was $109 million, or $165 million before changes in working capital, demonstrating the resilience and cash-generating power of the company's assets [11] - Year-to-date costs were down approximately 11% from 2024, reflecting lower general and administrative expenses, non-energy operating costs, and lower taxes other than on income [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net total production was recorded at 137,000 BOE per day, with average realizations at 97% of Brent before hedges and 100% after hedging [9] - The company has reduced nearly all of its 2025 operating expense items by about 7% compared to the original outlook, despite anticipating higher energy costs and increased activity levels in the second half [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The California Energy Commission's response to Governor Newsom's directive to ensure fuel reliability during the energy transition was positively received, indicating a collaborative effort with refiners and the industry [7] - The state is actively working to improve the oil and gas permitting process, with expectations for additional details once the legislature reconvenes in mid-August [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on advancing its carbon and power platforms while returning meaningful capital to shareholders, indicating a commitment to both operational performance and shareholder value [4] - The company is uniquely positioned to support California's energy transition, providing cleaner and more affordable in-state production while advancing decarbonization solutions [17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the improving regulatory environment in California, indicating constructive conversations regarding oil and gas permitting [21] - The company expects to raise full-year production guidance, lower both cost and drilling capital expectations, and increase its adjusted EBITDAX forecast [13] Other Important Information - The company has implemented ERA-related merger synergies ahead of schedule, fulfilling a $235 million target three months early, with a net present value of these synergies estimated at approximately $1.4 billion over the next ten years [6] - The company has slightly over $200 million remaining under its current share repurchase authorization, which was recently extended through June 2026 [13] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the company's view on the current regulatory changes in California regarding oil and gas permitting? - Management expressed optimism about the dynamic changes in California, indicating that the state is actively looking to resolve the permitting situation and stabilize local production [21][23] Question: What is driving the underlying capital efficiency improvements? - The combination of strong assets with operational leadership has led to exceptional performance, allowing the company to maintain capital efficiency and lower maintenance capital expectations [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 [42] Question: Can you provide an update on the Class six permitting process? - The company is on track to complete construction by the end of the year and is ready to inject early in 2026, pending final regulatory approvals [46] Question: What is the current status of the Elk Hills power plant and potential power deals? - The company is focused on providing an update before the end of the year, with ongoing interest and conversations regarding power deals [58]