Athabasca Oil Corporation (TSX: ATH) (“Athabasca” or the “Company”)
is pleased to report its second quarter results highlighted by
record Free Cash Flow, operational milestones and the continued
execution on return of capital commitments.
Corporate Consolidated Q2 2024
Highlights
-
Production: Average production of 37,621 boe/d
(98% Liquids). The Company is increasing its annual corporate
guidance by 1,000 boe/d to 36,000 – 37,000 boe/d, including both
Duvernay Energy and Athabasca (Thermal Oil) production.
-
Record Cash Flow: Record Adjusted Funds Flow of
$166 million and cash flow from operating activities of $135
million. In 2024, the Company forecasts Adjusted Funds Flow of
~$590 million1, supported by increased operating scale and strong
oil pricing for the balance of the year.
-
Balance Sheet: Net Cash of $125 million; Liquidity
of $429 million (including $303 million cash).
Athabasca (Thermal Oil) Quarterly
Highlights
-
Production: Second quarter production of 33,765
bbl/d (26,423 bbl/d at Leismer & 7,342 bbl/d at Hangingstone).
In June, Leismer successfully ramped up to a record ~28,000
bbl/d.
-
Cash Flow: Adjusted Funds Flow of $149 million
with an Operating Netback of $52.59/bbl. Athabasca (Thermal Oil)
expects to generate $1.4 billion of Free Cash Flow1 during the
timeframe of 2024-27.
-
Capital Program: $34 million of capital focused on
sustaining operations at Leismer and Hangingstone. Revised 2024
capital program of $193 million (previously $135 million) now
incorporates progressive growth plans at Leismer.
-
Record Free Cash Flow: $115 million of Free Cash
Flow supporting return of capital commitments.
Duvernay Energy Quarterly
Highlights
-
Production: Second quarter production of 3,856
boe/d (80% Liquids), up ~100% from the first quarter and supported
by production from new wells. Strong production results with
restricted IP90s averaging ~1,000 boe/d (86% Liquids) for each well
on the 2-well 100% working interest (“WI”) pad and approximate
IP60s averaging ~1,000 boe/d (87% Liquids) for each well on the
3-well 30% WI pad.
-
Cash Flow: Adjusted Funds Flow of $16 million with
an Operating Netback of $51.46/boe.
-
Capital Program: $14 million focused on drilling,
completions and readiness for upcoming drilling.
Sanctioning of Leismer Expansion to
40,000 bbl/d
-
Progressive Growth: The Company is sanctioning
progressive growth to 40,000 bbl/d at Leismer in stages over the
next three years. Estimated capital cost is $300 million
(~$25,000/bbl/d capital efficiency). The Company expects
incremental production in 2026 and 2027, reaching 40,000 bbl/d in
2028. Regulatory approvals are in place.
-
Maximize Long-term Free Cash Flow Generation:
Expanded scale is expected to drive additional margin growth. The
Company can maintain 40,000 bbl/d for approximately fifty years
(Proved plus Probable Reserves) at an estimated annual sustaining
capital of ~$6/bbl, maximizing long-term Free Cash Flow
generation.
-
Financial Capacity for Growth and Continued Return of
Capital: The Company expects incremental growth capital to
be funded well within cash flow while continuing to allocate 100%
of Free Cash Flow through its return of capital commitment.
Return of Capital
-
2024 Return of Capital Commitment: Athabasca
(Thermal Oil) is allocating 100% of Free Cash Flow (not including
Duvernay Energy) to share buybacks in 2024. Year to date the
Company has completed $173 million in share buybacks (34.7 million
shares at an average price of $4.99/sh) and forecasts 2024 Free
Cash Flow of ~$350 million1.
-
Focus on Per Share Metrics: A steadfast commitment
to return of capital has driven an ~88 million reduction (~14%) in
the Company’s fully diluted share count since March 31, 2023.
Corporate Consolidated – Strategic
Update
-
Value Creation: The Company’s Thermal Oil division
provides a differentiated liquids weighted growth platform
supported by financial resiliency to execute on return of capital
initiatives. Athabasca’s subsidiary company, Duvernay Energy
Corporation, is designed to enhance value for Athabasca’s
shareholders by providing a clear path for self-funded production
and cashflow growth in the Kaybob Duvernay resource play. Athabasca
(Thermal Oil) and Duvernay Energy have independent strategies and
capital allocation frameworks.
-
Consolidated Free Cash Flow Growth: Athabasca’s
capital allocation framework is designed to unlock shareholder
value by prioritizing multi‐year cash flow per share growth. In
2024, Athabasca forecasts Corporate Consolidated Adjusted Funds
Flow of ~$590 million or $1.07/sh, representing ~100% per share
growth over 2022 when the Company sanctioned growth to 28,000 bbl/d
at Leismer. The Company’s updated outlook targets a 13% net annual
production growth (23% per share) and a >20% net Adjusted Funds
Flow per share compound annual growth rate during the three-year
time to 20272.
Athabasca (Thermal Oil) – Strategic
Update
-
Large Resource Base: Athabasca’s top-tier assets
underpin a strong Free Cash Flow outlook with low sustaining
capital requirements. The long life, low decline asset base
includes ~1.2 Billion barrels of Proved plus Probable reserves and
~1 Billion barrels of Contingent Resource.
- Strong
Financial Position: Prudent long-term balance sheet
management is a core tenet of Athabasca’s strategy. The Company has
peer leading credit metrics including a Net Cash position of $125
million with Liquidity of $429 million (including $303 million
cash). The Company intends to proactively refinance its existing
term debt due in late 2026 (US$157 million outstanding) supported
by strong business fundamentals and attractive credit markets.
Maintaining a similar level of outstanding debt is expected to
provide strategic flexibility and business resiliency throughout
commodity price cycles.
-
Leismer Expansions: Athabasca recently completed
an expansion to 28,000 bbl/d at a competitive capital efficiency of
$14,000/bbl/d. Following the success of this project and with the
constructive commodity price environment, the Company has
sanctioned a further expansion to 40,000 bbl/d. This will be
completed utilizing a progressive build strategy that adds
incremental production in 2026 and 2027 with the full 40,000 bbl/d
achieved in 2028. The total capital for this project is estimated
at $300 million for a capital efficiency of ~$25,000/bbl/d. The
Company can maintain 40,000 bbl/d for approximately fifty years
(Proved plus Probable Reserves).
-
Hangingstone Activity: The Company recently spud
the first of two ~1,400 meter well pairs. Well design with extended
reach laterals is expected to drive project capital efficiencies of
~$15,000/bbl/d and will leverage off available infrastructure
capacity. These sustaining well pairs will support base production
in 2025 and beyond with the objective of ensuring Hangingstone
continues to deliver meaningful cash flow contributions to the
Company and maintaining competitive netbacks ($51.89/bbl Q2 2024
Operating Netback).
-
Corner – Future Growth: The Company’s Corner asset
is a large de-risked oil sands asset adjacent to Leismer with 351
million barrels of Proved plus Probable reserves and 520 million
barrels Contingent Resource (Best Estimate Unrisked). There are
over 300 delineation wells and ~80% seismic coverage, with
reservoir qualities similar or better than Leismer. The asset has a
40,000 bbl/d regulatory approval for development with the existing
pipeline corridor passing through the Corner lease. The Company has
updated its development plans and is finalizing facility cost
estimates. Athabasca intends to explore external funding options
and does not plan to fund an expansion utilizing existing cash flow
or balance sheet resources.
-
Significant Multi-Year Free Cash Flow: Inclusive
of the progressive growth at Leismer, Athabasca (Thermal Oil)
expects to generate $1.4 billion of Free Cash Flow1 during the
timeframe of 2024-27. Beyond 2028, the Company can maintain its
production base for approximately fifty years (Proved plus Probable
Reserves) at an estimated annual sustaining capital of ~$6/bbl,
maximizing long-term Free Cash Flow generation. Free Cash Flow will
continue to support the Company’s growth and return of capital
initiatives.
-
Thermal Oil Royalty Advantage: Athabasca has
significant unrecovered capital balances on its Thermal Oil Assets
that ensure a low Crown royalty framework (~7%1). Leismer is
forecasted to remain pre-payout until 20271 and Hangingstone is
forecasted to remain pre-payout beyond 20301.
-
Exposure to Improving Heavy Oil Pricing: With the
start-up of the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion (590,000 bbl/d)
in early May, spare pipeline capacity is expected to drive tighter
and less volatile WCS heavy differentials. Every $5/bbl WCS change
impacts Athabasca (Thermal Oil) Adjusted Funds Flow by ~$85 million
annually.
-
Tax Free Horizon: Athabasca (Thermal Oil) has $2.5
billion of valuable tax pools and does not forecast paying cash
taxes for approximately seven years.
Duvernay Energy – Strategic Update
-
Value Creation: Duvernay Energy (“DEC”) is an
operated, private subsidiary of Athabasca (owned 70% by Athabasca
and 30% by Cenovus Energy). DEC accelerates value realization for
Athabasca’s shareholders by providing a clear path for self-funded
production and cash flow growth without compromising Athabasca’s
capacity to fund its Thermal Oil assets or its return of capital
strategy.
-
Kaybob Duvernay Assets: Exposure to ~200,000 gross
acres in the liquids rich and oil windows with ~500 gross future
well locations, including ~46,000 gross acres with 100% working
interest.
-
Self-Funded Growth: Near-term activity will be
funded within Adjusted Funds Flow and initial seed capital. The
2024 program includes drilling and completions of a two-well 100%
WI pad and a three-well 30% WI pad along with spudding two
additional multi-well pads in the Fall of 2024. The Company has
self-funded growth potential to in excess of ~20,000 boe/d (75%
Liquids) by the late 2020s1.
Footnote: Refer to the “Reader Advisory” section within this news release for additional information on
Non‐GAAP Financial Measures (e.g. Adjusted Funds
Flow, Free Cash Flow, Sustaining Capital, Net
Cash, Liquidity) and production disclosure.1 Pricing
Assumptions: H1 2024 prices actualized and flat pricing of US$80
WTI, US$15 WCS heavy differential, C$67/MWh, C$1.48 AECO, and 0.73
C$/US$ FX for the balance of the year. 2025-26 US$80 WTI, US$12.50
WCS heavy differential, C$3 AECO, and 0.75 C$/US$ FX.2 The
Company’s illustrative multi-year outlook assumes a 10% annual
share buyback program at an implied share price of 4.5x EV/Debt
Adjusted Cash flow in 2025 and beyond.
Corporate Guidance
-
Athabasca (Thermal Oil) guidance: Increased
production guidance on strong performance year to date. The $193
million capital budget incorporates sustaining capital and capital
for commencing progressive growth plans to 40,000 bbl/d at
Leismer.
-
Duvernay Energy guidance is unchanged.
2024 Guidance |
Athabasca (Thermal Oil) May 8, 20241 |
Athabasca (Thermal Oil) July 24, 20242 |
Duvernay Energy2,3Unchanged |
Corporate Consolidated2,3 |
|
|
|
|
|
Production (boe/d) |
32,000 – 33,000 |
33,000 – 34,000 |
~3,000 |
36,000 – 37,000 |
Capital Expenditures ($MM) |
$135 |
$193 |
$82 |
$275 |
Adjusted Funds Flow ($MM) |
~$500 |
~$540 |
~$50 |
~$590 |
Free Cash Flow ($MM) |
~$365 |
~$350 |
- |
- |
1 May 8, 2024 commodity price forecast: US$80
WTI, US$15 WCS heavy differential, C$100/MWh, C$3 AECO, and $0.73
C$/US$ FX.2 July 24, 2024 commodity price forecast: H1 2024 prices
actualized and flat pricing of US$80 WTI, US$15 WCS heavy
differential, C$67/MWh, C$1.48 AECO, and 0.73 C$/US$ FX for the
balance of the year.3 Duvernay Energy reflects gross production and
financial metrics before taking into consideration Athabasca’s 70%
equity interest in Duvernay Energy. Duvernay Energy capital program
funded by seed capital and Adjusted Funds Flow forecast.
Financial and Operational Highlights
|
Three months ended June 30, |
|
Six months ended June 30, |
|
($ Thousands, unless otherwise noted) |
2024 |
|
|
2023 |
|
|
2024 |
|
|
2023 |
|
|
CORPORATE CONSOLIDATED(1) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Petroleum and natural gas production (boe/d)(2) |
|
37,621 |
|
|
|
33,971 |
|
|
|
35,546 |
|
|
|
34,325 |
|
|
Petroleum, natural gas and midstream sales |
$ |
401,738 |
|
|
$ |
282,614 |
|
|
$ |
712,854 |
|
|
$ |
573,355 |
|
|
Operating Income(2) |
$ |
179,751 |
|
|
$ |
95,118 |
|
|
$ |
284,886 |
|
|
$ |
151,653 |
|
|
Operating Income Net of Realized Hedging(2)(3) |
$ |
178,176 |
|
|
$ |
90,522 |
|
|
$ |
284,756 |
|
|
$ |
125,002 |
|
|
Operating Netback ($/boe)(2) |
$ |
52.46 |
|
|
$ |
32.23 |
|
|
$ |
44.77 |
|
|
$ |
24.05 |
|
|
Operating Netback Net of Realized Hedging ($/boe)(2)(3) |
$ |
52.00 |
|
|
$ |
30.67 |
|
|
$ |
44.75 |
|
|
$ |
19.82 |
|
|
Capital expenditures |
$ |
48,453 |
|
|
$ |
41,432 |
|
|
$ |
124,464 |
|
|
$ |
67,794 |
|
|
Cash flow from operating activities |
$ |
135,083 |
|
|
$ |
46,914 |
|
|
$ |
211,721 |
|
|
$ |
67,451 |
|
|
per share - basic |
$ |
0.24 |
|
|
$ |
0.08 |
|
|
$ |
0.38 |
|
|
$ |
0.11 |
|
|
Adjusted Funds Flow(2) |
$ |
165,746 |
|
|
$ |
81,664 |
|
|
$ |
253,518 |
|
|
$ |
72,268 |
|
|
per share - basic |
$ |
0.30 |
|
|
$ |
0.14 |
|
|
$ |
0.45 |
|
|
$ |
0.12 |
|
|
ATHABASCA (THERMAL OIL) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Bitumen production (bbl/d)(2) |
|
33,765 |
|
|
|
29,016 |
|
|
|
32,651 |
|
|
|
29,097 |
|
|
Petroleum, natural gas and midstream sales |
$ |
395,279 |
|
|
$ |
265,304 |
|
|
$ |
700,320 |
|
|
$ |
534,406 |
|
|
Operating Income(2) |
$ |
161,694 |
|
|
$ |
81,621 |
|
|
$ |
262,143 |
|
|
$ |
123,118 |
|
|
Operating Netback ($/bbl)(2) |
$ |
52.59 |
|
|
$ |
32.64 |
|
|
$ |
44.91 |
|
|
$ |
22.97 |
|
|
Capital expenditures |
$ |
34,084 |
|
|
$ |
30,679 |
|
|
$ |
76,203 |
|
|
$ |
55,165 |
|
|
Adjusted Funds Flow(2) |
$ |
149,413 |
|
|
|
|
$ |
233,126 |
|
|
|
|
Free Cash Flow(2) |
$ |
115,329 |
|
|
|
|
$ |
156,923 |
|
|
|
|
DUVERNAY ENERGY(1) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Petroleum and natural gas production (boe/d)(2) |
|
3,856 |
|
|
|
4,955 |
|
|
|
2,895 |
|
|
|
5,228 |
|
|
Percentage Liquids (%)(2) |
80 |
% |
|
55 |
% |
|
77 |
% |
|
56 |
% |
|
Petroleum, natural gas and midstream sales |
$ |
26,749 |
|
|
$ |
24,006 |
|
|
$ |
38,287 |
|
|
$ |
53,895 |
|
|
Operating Income(2) |
$ |
18,057 |
|
|
$ |
13,497 |
|
|
$ |
22,743 |
|
|
$ |
28,535 |
|
|
Operating Netback ($/boe)(2) |
$ |
51.46 |
|
|
$ |
29.92 |
|
|
$ |
43.17 |
|
|
$ |
30.16 |
|
|
Capital expenditures |
$ |
14,369 |
|
|
$ |
10,753 |
|
|
$ |
48,261 |
|
|
$ |
12,629 |
|
|
Adjusted Funds Flow(2) |
$ |
16,333 |
|
|
|
|
$ |
20,392 |
|
|
|
|
Free Cash Flow(2) |
$ |
1,964 |
|
|
|
|
$ |
(27,869 |
|
) |
|
|
NET INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net income and comprehensive income(4) |
$ |
96,076 |
|
|
$ |
57,121 |
|
|
$ |
134,685 |
|
|
$ |
486 |
|
|
per share - basic(4) |
$ |
0.17 |
|
|
$ |
0.10 |
|
|
$ |
0.24 |
|
|
$ |
0.00 |
|
|
per share - diluted(4) |
$ |
0.17 |
|
|
$ |
0.07 |
|
|
$ |
0.24 |
|
|
$ |
0.00 |
|
|
COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic |
|
557,299,962 |
|
|
|
592,223,832 |
|
|
|
562,188,451 |
|
|
|
589,442,937 |
|
|
Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted |
|
566,559,671 |
|
|
|
616,789,101 |
|
|
|
569,058,329 |
|
|
|
600,470,217 |
|
|
|
|
|
June 30, |
|
December 31, |
|
As at ($ Thousands) |
|
|
2024 |
|
2023 |
|
LIQUIDITY AND BALANCE SHEET |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents |
|
|
$ |
303,360 |
|
$ |
343,309 |
|
Available credit facilities(5) |
|
|
$ |
126,035 |
|
$ |
85,488 |
|
Face value of term debt(6) |
|
|
$ |
214,886 |
|
$ |
207,648 |
|
(1) Corporate Consolidated and Duvernay Energy
reflect gross production and financial metrics before taking into
consideration Athabasca's 70% equity interest in Duvernay
Energy.(2) Refer to the “Reader Advisory” section within this News
Release for additional information on Non-GAAP Financial Measures
and production disclosure.(3) Includes realized commodity risk
management loss of $1.6 million and $0.1 million for the three and
six months ended June 30, 2024 (three and six months ended June 30,
2023 – loss of $4.6 million and $26.7 million).(4) Net income and
comprehensive income per share amounts are based on net income and
comprehensive income attributable to shareholders of the Parent
Company. In the calculation of diluted net income per share for the
three months ended June 30, 2023 and 2024 net income was reduced by
$16.4 million and $0.4 million, respectively, to account for the
impact to net income had the outstanding warrants and PSUs been
converted to equity. (5) Includes available credit under
Athabasca's and Duvernay Energy's Credit Facilities and Athabasca's
Unsecured Letter of Credit Facility.(6) The face value of the term
debt at June 30, 2024 was US$157.0 million (December 31, 2023 –
US$157.0 million) translated into Canadian dollars at the June 30,
2024 exchange rate of US$1.00 = C$1.3687 (December 31, 2023 –
C$1.3226).
Operations Update
Athabasca (Thermal Oil)
Production for the second quarter of 2024
averaged 33,765 bbl/d. The Thermal Oil division generated Operating
Income of $162 million (Operating Netbacks - $52.78/bbl at Leismer
and $51.89/bbl at Hangingstone) during the period with capital
expenditures of $34 million, primarily related to drilling and
completions, and progressing the facility expansion at Leismer.
Leismer
Leismer produced a record 26,423 bbl/d during
the quarter following the completion of the facility expansion.
Current production levels are ~28,000 bbl/d with a steam oil ratio
(“SOR”) of ~3x. In Q2 the first set of redrills at Leismer were
brought on production. These wells develop bypassed pay utilizing
existing facilities, resulting in capital efficiencies
<$9,500/bbl/d. The Company plans to drill two additional
redrills in Q4 to take advantage of these short-cycle
opportunities.
The Company is continuing with progressive
growth to increase Leismer production to 40,000 bbl/d (regulatory
approved capacity) over the next three years. These capital
projects are flexible and highly economic (~$25,000/bbl/d capital
efficiency) and will maximize value creation when executed
alongside the Company’s return of capital initiatives. Activity
over the next three years will include drilling ~20 well pairs
(sustaining and growth wells), expanding steam capacity to ~130,000
bbl/d and adding oil processing capacity at the central processing
facility. The Company anticipates growth to ~32,000 bbl/d in
mid-2026, ~35,000 bbl/d in 2027 and achieving ~40,000 bbl/d
capacity in 2028. The project will benefit from installing
opportunistically pre-purchased steam generators which reduce the
timelines and costs for the project.
Leismer is forecasted to remain pre-payout under
the Crown royalty structure until late 20271.
Hangingstone
Production during the quarter averaged 7,342
bbl/d. Non-condensable gas co-injection continues to assist in
pressure support, reduced energy usage and an improved SOR
averaging ~3.4x year to date. In July, the Company spud two ~1,400
meter well pairs. Well design with extended reach laterals is
expected to drive project capital efficiencies of ~$15,000/bbl/d
and will leverage off available infrastructure capacity. These
sustaining well pairs will support base production in 2025 and
beyond with the objective of ensuring Hangingstone continues to
deliver meaningful cash flow contributions to the Company and
maintaining competitive netbacks. Hangingstone is forecasted to
remain pre-payout under the Crown royalty structure beyond
20301.
Alberta Wildfire Update
Athabasca is closely monitoring wildfires in the
greater Fort McMurray area.
The safety and well-being of our employees and
contractors is our top priority. At this time there has been no
impact to operations. Athabasca has a comprehensive emergency
response plan in place and is in close communication with relevant
government agencies. Proactive measures have been taken over the
past weeks, including building fire breaks and clearing trees
around project sites.
Athabasca will continue to monitor the situation
closely and will provide updates as material new information
becomes available.
Duvernay Energy
Production for the second quarter of 2024
averaged 3,856 boe/d (80% Liquids). Duvernay Energy generated
Operating Income of $18 million (Operating Netback - $51.46/boe)
during the period.
Duvernay Energy brought its two-well 100%
working interest pad at 03-18-64-17W5 on production in late April.
The pad generated an average restricted 90-day rate of ~1,000 boe/d
per well (86% liquids) per well. A three well pad (30% working
interest) at 02-03-65-20W5 was brought on production in late May,
with an approximate 60-day rate of ~1,000 boe/d (87% liquids) per
well. Both pads are performing in-line with management’s
expectations and exhibiting strong initial rates with high liquids
content. The Company is preparing for the upcoming drilling program
that will include spudding a three-well 100% working interest pad
in September and a four-well 30% working interest pad in
December.
About Athabasca Oil
Corporation
Athabasca Oil Corporation is a Canadian energy
company with a focused strategy on the development of thermal and
light oil assets. Situated in Alberta’s Western Canadian
Sedimentary Basin, the Company has amassed a significant land base
of extensive, high quality resources. Athabasca’s light oil assets
are held in a private subsidiary (Duvernay Energy Corporation) in
which Athabasca owns a 70% equity interest. Athabasca’s common
shares trade on the TSX under the symbol “ATH”. For more
information, visit www.atha.com.
For more information, please contact:
Matthew
Taylor |
Robert
Broen |
Chief Financial Officer |
President and CEO |
1-403-817-9104 |
1-403-817-9190 |
mtaylor@atha.com |
rbroen@atha.com |
|
|
Reader Advisory:
This News Release contains forward-looking
information that involves various risks, uncertainties and other
factors. All information other than statements of historical fact
is forward-looking information. The use of any of the words
“anticipate”, “plan”, “project”, “continue”, “maintain”, “may”,
“estimate”, “expect”, “will”, “target”, “forecast”, “could”,
“intend”, “potential”, “guidance”, “outlook” and similar
expressions suggesting future outcome are intended to identify
forward-looking information. The forward-looking information is not
historical fact, but rather is based on the Company’s current
plans, objectives, goals, strategies, estimates, assumptions and
projections about the Company’s industry, business and future
operating and financial results. This information involves known
and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause
actual results or events to differ materially from those
anticipated in such forward-looking information. No assurance can
be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such
forward-looking information included in this News Release should
not be unduly relied upon. This information speaks only as of the
date of this News Release. In particular, this News Release
contains forward-looking information pertaining to, but not limited
to, the following: our strategic plans; the allocation of future
capital; timing and quantum for shareholder returns including share
buybacks; the terms of our NCIB program; our drilling plans and
capital efficiencies; production growth to expected production
rates; Leismer production rate maintenance and estimated sustaining
capital amount; timing of Leismer’s and Hangingstone’s pre-payout
royalty status; applicability of tax pools and the timing of tax
payments; expected operating results at Hangingstone; Adjusted
Funds Flow and Free Cash Flow in 2024 and 2025 to 2027; type well
economic metrics; number of drilling locations; forecasted daily
production and the composition of production; our outlook in
respect of the Company’s business environment, including in respect
of the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion and new global heavy oil
refining capacity; the refinancing of the Company’s term debt; and
other matters.
In addition, information and statements in this
News Release relating to "Reserves" and “Resources” are deemed to
be forward-looking information, as they involve the implied
assessment, based on certain estimates and assumptions, that the
reserves and resources described exist in the quantities predicted
or estimated, and that the reserves and resources described can be
profitably produced in the future. With respect to forward-looking
information contained in this News Release, assumptions have been
made regarding, among other things: commodity prices; the
regulatory framework governing royalties, taxes and environmental
matters in the jurisdictions in which the Company conducts and will
conduct business and the effects that such regulatory framework
will have on the Company, including on the Company’s financial
condition and results of operations; the Company’s financial and
operational flexibility; the Company’s financial sustainability;
Athabasca's cash flow break-even commodity price; the Company’s
ability to obtain qualified staff and equipment in a timely and
cost-efficient manner; the applicability of technologies for the
recovery and production of the Company’s reserves and resources;
future capital expenditures to be made by the Company; future
sources of funding for the Company’s capital programs; the
Company’s future debt levels; future production levels; the
Company’s ability to obtain financing and/or enter into joint
venture arrangements, on acceptable terms; operating costs;
compliance of counterparties with the terms of contractual
arrangements; impact of increasing competition globally; collection
risk of outstanding accounts receivable from third parties;
geological and engineering estimates in respect of the Company’s
reserves and resources; recoverability of reserves and resources;
the geography of the areas in which the Company is conducting
exploration and development activities and the quality of its
assets. Certain other assumptions related to the Company’s Reserves
and Resources are contained in the report of McDaniel &
Associates Consultants Ltd. (“McDaniel”) evaluating Athabasca’s
Proved Reserves, Probable Reserves and Contingent Resources as at
December 31, 2023 (which is respectively referred to herein as the
"McDaniel Report”).
Actual results could differ materially from
those anticipated in this forward-looking information as a result
of the risk factors set forth in the Company’s Annual Information
Form (“AIF”) dated February 29, 2024 available on SEDAR at
www.sedarplus.ca, including, but not limited to: weakness in the
oil and gas industry; exploration, development and production
risks; prices, markets and marketing; market conditions; climate
change and carbon pricing risk; statutes and regulations regarding
the environment including deceptive marketing provisions;
regulatory environment and changes in applicable law; gathering and
processing facilities, pipeline systems and rail; reputation and
public perception of the oil and gas sector; environment, social
and governance goals; political uncertainty; state of capital
markets; ability to finance capital requirements; access to capital
and insurance; abandonment and reclamation costs; changing demand
for oil and natural gas products; anticipated benefits of
acquisitions and dispositions; royalty regimes; foreign exchange
rates and interest rates; reserves; hedging; operational
dependence; operating costs; project risks; supply chain
disruption; financial assurances; diluent supply; third party
credit risk; indigenous claims; reliance on key personnel and
operators; income tax; cybersecurity; advanced technologies;
hydraulic fracturing; liability management; seasonality and weather
conditions; unexpected events; internal controls; limitations and
insurance; litigation; natural gas overlying bitumen resources;
competition; chain of title and expiration of licenses and leases;
breaches of confidentiality; new industry related activities or new
geographical areas; water use restrictions and/or limited access to
water; relationship with Duvernay Energy Corporation; management
estimates and assumptions; third-party claims; conflicts of
interest; inflation and cost management; credit ratings; growth
management; impact of pandemics; ability of investors resident in
the United States to enforce civil remedies in Canada; and risks
related to our debt and securities. All subsequent forward-looking
information, whether written or oral, attributable to the Company
or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their
entirety by these cautionary statements.
Also included in this News Release are estimates
of Athabasca's 2024 outlook which are based on the various
assumptions as to production levels, commodity prices, currency
exchange rates and other assumptions disclosed in this News
Release. To the extent any such estimate constitutes a financial
outlook, it was approved by management and the Board of Directors
of Athabasca and is included to provide readers with an
understanding of the Company’s outlook. Management does not have
firm commitments for all of the costs, expenditures, prices or
other financial assumptions used to prepare the financial outlook
or assurance that such operating results will be achieved and,
accordingly, the complete financial effects of all of those costs,
expenditures, prices and operating results are not objectively
determinable. The actual results of operations of the Company and
the resulting financial results may vary from the amounts set forth
herein, and such variations may be material. The outlook and
forward-looking information contained in this New Release was made
as of the date of this News release and the Company disclaims any
intention or obligations to update or revise such outlook and/or
forward-looking information, whether as a result of new
information, future events or otherwise, unless required pursuant
to applicable law.
Oil and Gas Information
“BOEs" may be misleading, particularly if used
in isolation. A BOE conversion ratio of six thousand cubic feet of
natural gas to one barrel of oil equivalent (6 Mcf: 1 bbl) is based
on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at
the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the
wellhead. As the value ratio between natural gas and crude oil
based on the current prices of natural gas and crude oil is
significantly different from the energy equivalency of 6:1,
utilizing a conversion on a 6:1 basis may be misleading as an
indication of value.
Initial Production Rates
Test Results and Initial Production Rates: The
well test results and initial production rates provided herein
should be considered to be preliminary, except as otherwise
indicated. Test results and initial production rates disclosed
herein may not necessarily be indicative of long-term performance
or of ultimate recovery.
Reserves Information
The McDaniel Report was prepared using the
assumptions and methodology guidelines outlined in the COGE
Handbook and in accordance with National Instrument 51-101
Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities, effective
December 31, 2023. There are numerous uncertainties inherent in
estimating quantities of bitumen, light crude oil and medium crude
oil, tight oil, conventional natural gas, shale gas and natural gas
liquids reserves and the future cash flows attributed to such
reserves. The reserve and associated cash flow information set
forth above are estimates only. In general, estimates of
economically recoverable reserves and the future net cash flows
therefrom are based upon a number of variable factors and
assumptions, such as historical production from the properties,
production rates, ultimate reserve recovery, timing and amount of
capital expenditures, marketability of oil and natural gas, royalty
rates, the assumed effects of regulation by governmental agencies
and future operating costs, all of which may vary materially. For
those reasons, estimates of the economically recoverable reserves
attributable to any particular group of properties, classification
of such reserves based on risk of recovery and estimates of future
net revenues associated with reserves prepared by different
engineers, or by the same engineers at different times, may vary.
The Company's actual production, revenues, taxes and development
and operating expenditures with respect to its reserves will vary
from estimates thereof and such variations could be material.
Reserves figures described herein have been rounded to the nearest
MMbbl or MMboe. For additional information regarding the
consolidated reserves and information concerning the resources of
the Company as evaluated by McDaniel in the McDaniel Report, please
refer to the Company’s AIF.
Reserve Values (i.e. Net Asset Value) is
calculated using the estimated net present value of all future net
revenue from our reserves, before income taxes discounted at 10%,
as estimated by McDaniel effective December 31, 2023 and based on
average pricing of McDaniel, Sproule and GLJ as of January 1,
2024.
The 500 gross Duvernay drilling locations
referenced include: 37 proved undeveloped locations and 76 probable
undeveloped locations for a total of 113 booked locations with the
balance being unbooked locations. Proved undeveloped locations and
probable undeveloped locations are booked and derived from the
Company's most recent independent reserves evaluation as prepared
by McDaniel as of December 31, 2023 and account for drilling
locations that have associated proved and/or probable reserves, as
applicable. Unbooked locations are internal management estimates.
Unbooked locations do not have attributed reserves or resources
(including contingent or prospective). Unbooked locations have been
identified by management as an estimation of Athabasca’s multi-year
drilling activities expected to occur over the next two decades
based on evaluation of applicable geologic, seismic, engineering,
production and reserves information. There is no certainty that the
Company will drill all unbooked drilling locations and if drilled
there is no certainty that such locations will result in additional
oil and gas reserves, resources or production. The drilling
locations on which the Company will actually drill wells, including
the number and timing thereof is ultimately dependent upon the
availability of funding, commodity prices, provincial fiscal and
royalty policies, costs, actual drilling results, additional
reservoir information that is obtained and other factors.
Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures,
and Production Disclosure
The "Corporate Consolidated Adjusted Funds
Flow", “Corporate Consolidated Adjusted Funds Flow per Share”,
"Athabasca (Thermal Oil) Adjusted Funds Flow", "Duvernay Energy
Adjusted Funds Flow", “Corporate Consolidated Free Cash Flow”,
"Athabasca (Thermal Oil) Free Cash Flow", "Duvernay Energy Free
Cash Flow", "Duvernay Energy Operating Income", "Duvernay Energy
Operating Netback", "Athabasca (Thermal Oil) Operating Income",
"Athabasca (Thermal Oil) Operating Netback", “Corporate
Consolidated Operating Income", "Corporate Consolidated Operating
Netback", "Corporate Consolidated Operating Income Net of Realized
Hedging", "Corporate Consolidated Operating Netback Net of Realized
Hedging" and “Cash Transportation & Marketing Expense”
financial measures contained in this News Release do not have
standardized meanings which are prescribed by IFRS and they are
considered to be non-GAAP financial measures or ratios. These
measures may not be comparable to similar measures presented by
other issuers and should not be considered in isolation with
measures that are prepared in accordance with IFRS. Sustaining
Capital, Net Cash and Liquidity are
supplementary financial measures. The Leismer and
Hangingstone operating results are a supplementary financial
measure that when aggregated, combine to the Athabasca (Thermal
Oil) segment results.
Adjusted Funds Flow, Adjusted Funds Flow Per
Share and Free Cash Flow
Adjusted Funds Flow and Free Cash Flow are
non-GAAP financial measures and are not intended to represent cash
flow from operating activities, net earnings or other measures of
financial performance calculated in accordance with IFRS. The
Adjusted Funds Flow and Free Cash Flow measures allow management
and others to evaluate the Company’s ability to fund its capital
programs and meet its ongoing financial obligations using cash flow
internally generated from ongoing operating related activities.
Adjusted Funds Flow per share is a non-GAAP financial ratio
calculated as Adjusted Funds Flow divided by the applicable number
of weighted average shares outstanding. Adjusted Funds Flow and
Free Cash Flow are calculated as follows:
|
Three months endedJune 30,
2024 |
|
Three months endedJune 30,
2023 |
|
($ Thousands) |
Athabasca (Thermal Oil) |
|
Duvernay Energy(1) |
|
Corporate Consolidated(1) |
|
Corporate Consolidated |
|
Cash flow from operating activities |
$ |
124,027 |
|
$ |
11,056 |
|
$ |
135,083 |
|
$ |
46,914 |
|
Changes in non-cash working capital |
|
25,375 |
|
|
5,390 |
|
|
30,765 |
|
|
34,630 |
|
Settlement of provisions |
|
11 |
|
|
(113 |
) |
|
(102 |
) |
|
120 |
|
ADJUSTED FUNDS FLOW |
|
149,413 |
|
|
16,333 |
|
|
165,746 |
|
|
81,664 |
|
Capital expenditures |
|
(34,084 |
) |
|
(14,369 |
) |
|
(48,453 |
) |
|
(41,432 |
) |
FREE CASH FLOW |
$ |
115,329 |
|
$ |
1,964 |
|
$ |
117,293 |
|
$ |
40,232 |
|
(1) Duvernay Energy and Corporate Consolidated
reflect gross financial metrics before taking into consideration
Athabasca's 70% equity interest in Duvernay Energy.
|
Six months endedJune 30,
2024 |
|
Six months endedJune 30,
2023 |
|
($ Thousands) |
Athabasca (Thermal Oil) |
|
Duvernay Energy(1) |
|
Corporate Consolidated(1) |
|
Corporate Consolidated |
|
Cash flow from operating activities |
$ |
197,068 |
|
$ |
14,653 |
|
$ |
211,721 |
|
$ |
67,451 |
|
Changes in non-cash working capital |
|
34,761 |
|
|
5,535 |
|
|
40,296 |
|
|
16,600 |
|
Settlement of provisions |
|
1,297 |
|
|
204 |
|
|
1,501 |
|
|
794 |
|
Long-term deposit |
|
— |
|
|
— |
|
|
— |
|
|
(12,577 |
) |
ADJUSTED FUNDS FLOW |
|
233,126 |
|
|
20,392 |
|
|
253,518 |
|
|
72,268 |
|
Capital expenditures |
|
(76,203 |
) |
|
(48,261 |
) |
|
(124,464 |
) |
|
(67,794 |
) |
FREE CASH FLOW |
$ |
156,923 |
|
$ |
(27,869 |
) |
$ |
129,054 |
|
$ |
4,474 |
|
(1) Duvernay Energy and Corporate Consolidated
reflect gross financial metrics before taking into consideration
Athabasca's 70% equity interest in Duvernay Energy.
Duvernay Energy Operating Income and Operating
Netback
The non-GAAP measure Duvernay Energy Operating
Income in this News Release is calculated by subtracting the
Duvernay Energy royalties, operating expenses and transportation
& marketing expenses from petroleum and natural gas sales which
is the most directly comparable GAAP measure. The Duvernay Energy
Operating Netback per boe is a non-GAAP financial ratio calculated
by dividing the Duvernay Energy Operating Income by the Duvernay
Energy production. The Duvernay Energy Operating Income and the
Duvernay Energy Operating Netback measures allow management and
others to evaluate the production results from the Company’s
Duvernay Energy assets.
The Duvernay Energy Operating Income is
calculated using the Duvernay Energy Segments GAAP results, as
follows:
|
Three months
endedJune 30, |
|
Six months
endedJune 30, |
|
($ Thousands, unless otherwise noted) |
2024 |
|
2023 |
|
2024 |
|
2023 |
|
Petroleum and natural gas sales |
$ |
26,749 |
|
$ |
24,006 |
|
$ |
38,287 |
|
$ |
53,895 |
|
Royalties |
|
(3,498 |
) |
|
(1,337 |
) |
|
(5,812 |
) |
|
(6,893 |
) |
Operating expenses |
|
(4,063 |
) |
|
(7,095 |
) |
|
(7,703 |
) |
|
(14,024 |
) |
Transportation and marketing |
|
(1,131 |
) |
|
(2,077 |
) |
|
(2,029 |
) |
|
(4,443 |
) |
DUVERNAY ENERGY
OPERATING INCOME |
$ |
18,057 |
|
$ |
13,497 |
|
$ |
22,743 |
|
$ |
28,535 |
|
Athabasca (Thermal Oil) Operating Income and Operating
Netback
The non-GAAP measure Athabasca (Thermal Oil)
Operating Income in this News Release is calculated by subtracting
the Athabasca (Thermal Oil) segments cost of diluent blending,
royalties, operating expenses and cash transportation &
marketing expenses from heavy oil (blended bitumen) and midstream
sales which is the most directly comparable GAAP measure. The
Athabasca (Thermal Oil) Operating Netback per bbl is a non-GAAP
financial ratio calculated by dividing the respective projects
Operating Income by its respective bitumen sales volumes. The
Athabasca (Thermal Oil) Operating Income and the Athabasca (Thermal
Oil) Operating Netback measures allow management and others to
evaluate the production results from the Athabasca (Thermal Oil)
assets. The Athabasca (Thermal Oil) Operating Income is calculated
using the Athabasca (Thermal Oil) Segments GAAP results, as
follows:
|
Three months
endedJune 30, |
|
Six months
endedJune 30, |
|
($ Thousands) |
2024 |
|
2023 |
|
2024 |
|
2023 |
|
Heavy oil (blended bitumen) and midstream sales |
$ |
395,279 |
|
$ |
265,304 |
|
$ |
700,320 |
|
$ |
534,406 |
|
Cost of diluent |
|
(148,166 |
) |
|
(114,430 |
) |
|
(282,026 |
) |
|
(263,363 |
) |
Total bitumen and midstream sales |
|
247,113 |
|
|
150,874 |
|
|
418,294 |
|
|
271,043 |
|
Royalties |
|
(28,823 |
) |
|
(10,944 |
) |
|
(40,360 |
) |
|
(17,557 |
) |
Operating expenses - non-energy |
|
(24,417 |
) |
|
(20,888 |
) |
|
(47,542 |
) |
|
(43,828 |
) |
Operating expenses - energy |
|
(11,635 |
) |
|
(18,717 |
) |
|
(28,193 |
) |
|
(43,546 |
) |
Cash transportation and marketing(1) |
|
(20,544 |
) |
|
(18,704 |
) |
|
(40,056 |
) |
|
(42,994 |
) |
ATHABASCA (THERMAL OIL) OPERATING INCOME |
$ |
161,694 |
|
$ |
81,621 |
|
$ |
262,143 |
|
$ |
123,118 |
|
(1) Transportation and marketing excludes
non-cash costs of $0.6 million and $1.1 million for the three and
six months ended June 30, 2024 (three and six months ended June 30,
2023 - $0.6 million and $1.1 million).
Corporate Consolidated Operating Income and
Corporate Consolidated Operating Income Net of Realized Hedging and
Operating Netbacks
The non-GAAP measures of Corporate Consolidated
Operating Income including or excluding realized hedging in this
News Release are calculated by adding or subtracting realized gains
(losses) on commodity risk management contracts (as applicable),
royalties, the cost of diluent blending, operating expenses and
cash transportation & marketing expenses from petroleum,
natural gas and midstream sales which is the most directly
comparable GAAP measure. The Corporate Consolidated Operating
Netbacks including or excluding realized hedging per boe are
non-GAAP ratios calculated by dividing Corporate Consolidated
Operating Income including or excluding hedging by the total sales
volumes and are presented on a per boe basis. The Corporate
Consolidated Operating Income and Corporate Consolidated Operating
Netbacks including or excluding realized hedging measures allow
management and others to evaluate the production results from the
Company’s Duvernay Energy and Athabasca (Thermal Oil) assets
combined together including the impact of realized commodity risk
management gains or losses (as applicable).
|
Three months
endedJune 30, |
|
Six months
endedJune 30, |
($ Thousands) |
2024 |
|
2023 |
|
2024 |
|
2023 |
Petroleum, natural gas and midstream sales(1) |
$ |
422,028 |
|
$ |
289,310 |
|
$ |
738,607 |
|
$ |
588,301 |
|
Royalties |
|
(32,321 |
) |
|
(12,281 |
) |
|
(46,172 |
) |
|
(24,450 |
) |
Cost of diluent(1) |
|
(148,166 |
) |
|
(114,430 |
) |
|
(282,026 |
) |
|
(263,363 |
) |
Operating expenses |
|
(40,115 |
) |
|
(46,700 |
) |
|
(83,438 |
) |
|
(101,398 |
) |
Transportation and marketing(2) |
|
(21,675 |
) |
|
(20,781 |
) |
|
(42,085 |
) |
|
(47,437 |
) |
Operating Income |
|
179,751 |
|
|
95,118 |
|
|
284,886 |
|
|
151,653 |
|
Realized loss on commodity risk mgmt. contracts |
|
(1,575 |
) |
|
(4,596 |
) |
|
(130 |
) |
|
(26,651 |
) |
OPERATING INCOME NET OF REALIZED HEDGING |
$ |
178,176 |
|
$ |
90,522 |
|
$ |
284,756 |
|
$ |
125,002 |
|
(1) Non-GAAP measure includes intercompany NGLs
(i.e. condensate) sold by the Duvernay Energy segment to the
Athabasca (Thermal Oil) segment for use as diluent that is
eliminated on consolidation.(2) Transportation and marketing
excludes non-cash costs of $0.6 million and $1.1 million for the
three and six months ended June 30, 2024 (three and six months
ended June 30, 2023 - $0.6 million and $1.1 million).
Cash Transportation & Marketing Expense
The Cash Transportation & Marketing Expense
financial measure contained in this News Release is calculated by
subtracting the non-cash Transportation & Marketing Expense as
reported in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows from the
Transportation & Marketing Expense as reported in the
Consolidated Statement of Income (Loss) and is considered to be a
non-GAAP financial measure.
Sustaining Capital
The Sustaining Capital is managements' assumption of the
required capital to maintain the Company’s production base.
Net Cash
Net Cash is defined as the face value of term
debt, plus accounts payable and accrued liabilities, plus current
portion of provisions and other liabilities less current assets,
excluding risk management contracts and warrant liability.
Liquidity
Liquidity is defined as cash and cash equivalents plus available credit capacity.
Production volumes details
|
Three months
endedJune 30, |
|
Six months
endedJune 30, |
Production |
2024 |
|
2023 |
|
2024 |
|
2023 |
Duvernay Energy: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Oil(1) |
bbl/d |
2,806 |
|
1,412 |
|
2,006 |
|
1,493 |
Condensate NGLs |
bbl/d |
— |
|
720 |
|
— |
|
767 |
Oil and condensate NGLs |
bbl/d |
2,806 |
|
2,132 |
|
2,006 |
|
2,260 |
Other NGLs |
bbl/d |
266 |
|
599 |
|
223 |
|
660 |
Natural gas(2) |
mcf/d |
4,706 |
|
13,345 |
|
3,998 |
|
13,848 |
Total Duvernay Energy |
boe/d |
3,856 |
|
4,955 |
|
2,895 |
|
5,228 |
Total Thermal Oil bitumen |
bbl/d |
33,765 |
|
29,016 |
|
32,651 |
|
29,097 |
Total Company production |
boe/d |
37,621 |
|
33,971 |
|
35,546 |
|
34,325 |
(1) Comprised of 99% or greater of tight oil,
with the remaining being light and medium crude oil.(2) Comprised
of 99% or greater of shale gas, with the remaining being
conventional natural gas.
This News Release also makes reference to
Athabasca's forecasted average daily Thermal Oil production of
33,000 - 34,000 bbl/d for 2024. Athabasca expects that 100% of that
production will be comprised of bitumen. Duvernay Energy’s
forecasted average daily production of ~3,000 boe/d for 2024 is
expected to be comprised of approximately 67% tight oil, 23% shale
gas and 10% NGLs.
Liquids is defined as bitumen, light crude oil,
medium crude oil and natural gas liquids.
Footnote: Refer to the “Reader Advisory” section within this news release for additional information on
Non‐GAAP Financial Measures (e.g. Adjusted Funds
Flow, Free Cash Flow, Sustaining Capital, Net
Cash, Liquidity) and production disclosure.1 Pricing
Assumptions: H1 2024 prices actualized and flat pricing of US$80
WTI, US$15 WCS heavy differential, C$67/MWh, C$1.48 AECO, and 0.73
C$/US$ FX for the balance of the year. 2025-26 US$80 WTI, US$12.50
WCS heavy differential, C$3 AECO, and 0.75 C$/US$ FX.2 The
Company’s illustrative multi-year outlook assumes a 10% annual
share buyback program at an implied share price of 4.5x EV/Debt
Adjusted Cash flow in 2025 and beyond.
Athabasca Oil (TSX:ATH)
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