Financial Data and Key Indicators Changes - In the first half of 2025, net profit attributable to shareholders reached RMB 69.5 billion, a decrease of 12.8% year on year, primarily due to a 15.1% decline in Brent oil prices [18][19] - Oil and gas sales revenue was RMB 171.7 billion, with all-in costs remaining stable at USD 26.94 per barrel [7][21] - The company maintained a gearing ratio of 8.4%, indicating a healthy financial position, with total assets increasing by RMB 62.7 billion from the beginning of the period [20][21] Business Line Data and Key Indicators Changes - Net oil and gas production reached 384.6 million BOEs, up 6.1% year on year, with natural gas production rising by 12% [2][11] - The company made five new discoveries and successfully appraised 18 oil and gas structures, with 10 new projects commencing production [2][6] Market Data and Key Indicators Changes - Brent oil prices decreased by 15.1%, yet the company's net profit decline was less than the drop in oil prices, showcasing effective cost control and production increases [19][20] - The company reported strong performance in the domestic natural gas market, with total production of natural gas amounting to 216.2 million cubic meters, up 2% [27][63] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to enhance oil and gas reserves and production while promoting green energy transition and independent technological innovation [23][49] - The focus remains on maintaining high-quality development and efficiency improvements, with a commitment to shareholder returns through a dividend payout ratio of 45.5% [22][32] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the challenges posed by fluctuating oil prices but emphasized the company's robust value creation capabilities and commitment to cost control [6][39] - The outlook for oil prices in 2025 is projected to be around USD 65 to USD 70, influenced by various geopolitical factors [42][46] Other Important Information - The company has initiated its first offshore CCUS project and is developing offshore wind power projects, indicating a commitment to new energy initiatives [15][50] - The interim dividend of HKD 0.73 per share is the second highest in the company's history, reflecting a strong commitment to returning value to shareholders despite lower profits [3][22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Natural gas production and pricing outlook - Management highlighted that natural gas production increased due to additional reserves and projects, with a stable pricing mechanism in place [26][28][29] Question: Dividend payout improvement - The interim dividend payout ratio has increased to 45.5%, with management indicating that future dividends will be assessed based on production, operations, and financial position [31][32][33] Question: Cost reduction and efficiency improvement - Management confirmed ongoing efforts in cost control and efficiency improvements, with specific measures outlined for the second half of the year [34][35][36] Question: New energy business development - The company is exploring new energy projects, including offshore wind power, while maintaining a focus on oil and gas as the core business [49][50][51] Question: Investment loss in Argentina - The investment loss was primarily due to a joint venture in Argentina, with management clarifying that it is not a long-term loss but reflects current operating results [59][60]
CNOOC(00883) - 2025 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript