Ecopetrol(US:EC)2025-11-14 15:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported an EBITDA of COP 12.3 trillion for the third quarter, with an EBITDA margin of 41% and a net income of COP 2.6 trillion, reflecting a recovery from the previous quarter [28][29] - Year-to-date investment reached nearly $4.2 billion, representing 72% of the annual target [8][37] - Cumulative EBITDA for the year reached COP 36.7 trillion, demonstrating strong adaptability despite external pressures [29] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The exploration and production segment achieved a total accumulated production of 751,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day, aligning with the target range of 740,000-750,000 [12][29] - The refining segment saw throughput rebound to approximately 429,000 barrels per day, marking the second highest quarterly level in its history [16][17] - The midstream segment transported an average of 1,118,000 barrels per day, reflecting a 1% increase compared to the third quarter of 2024 [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The average production for the year was 751,000 barrels per day, supported by strong contributions from domestic and international operations [4][12] - The company reported a 15% decline in Brent prices year to date, impacting overall financial performance [28] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on reinforcing core business operations, maintaining financial discipline, and advancing strategic projects related to energy transition [4] - A multimodal logistics initiative was launched to enhance export capabilities, with projected annual benefits of $1 million-$2 million [7] - The company is committed to sustainability, having reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 379,000 tons of CO2 equivalent and increased renewable energy capacity to 234 megawatts [8][9] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating market volatility and maintaining operational stability despite external pressures [28] - The company anticipates a challenging price environment in 2026 but remains committed to maintaining low lifting costs and capital discipline [38] - The management emphasized the importance of energy security and the ongoing integration of renewable energy sources [39] Other Important Information - The company achieved ISO 37001 certification, reflecting its commitment to ethical business conduct [9] - The workplace environment index improved from 60 to 68, indicating a focus on employee well-being and sustainable growth [9] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on the potential sale of the Permian asset - Management clarified that there is no formal instruction or political request to sell the Permian asset, and any decision will be rigorously analyzed by the board [40][42] Question: Impact of a senior management member potentially being on the OFAC list - The company has a robust compliance system in place to monitor risks and ensure operational continuity [43][44][45] Question: Exchange rate impact on operating earnings - A sensitivity analysis indicated that a COP 100 variation in the exchange rate could affect net profit by COP 700 billion, with current rates positively impacting EBITDA [48][52] Question: Government assistance for the Sirius project - The company is working closely with the government to facilitate the Sirius project, with a timetable established for consultations [49][56] Question: Production growth outlook for 2026 amid oil price volatility - Management expects to maintain production levels similar to 2025, with ongoing assessments of the investment plan [65][67] Question: Refining margins and future expectations - The company is focused on improving operational efficiency and maximizing valuable products to enhance refining margins [69][83] Question: Dividend policy amid lower net income - The company plans to maintain its dividend distribution policy within the range of 40% to 60% of distributable profit [86]