Release Date: May 06, 2025

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.

Positive Points

• Coterra Energy Inc (CTRA, Financial) delivered oil production near the high end of guidance and natural gas production that exceeded expectations.
• The company successfully closed on the Franklin Mountain and Avant acquisitions, integrating these assets efficiently.
• Coterra Energy Inc (CTRA) generated excellent financial results, returning a substantial portion of free cash to shareholders and retiring $250 million of term loans.
• The company has a diversified revenue stream and a low-cost oil and natural gas supply, making it resilient in volatile markets.
• Coterra Energy Inc (CTRA) maintained a strong balance sheet with a focus on debt reduction, planning to fully repay a $1 billion term loan during 2025.

Negative Points

• Coterra Energy Inc (CTRA) encountered mechanical issues with Harkey wells, leading to increased water production and a pause in development in certain areas.
• The company is reducing projected 2025 CapEx by $100 million due to concerns over the oil market outlook.
• There is uncertainty regarding the duration and impact of current commodity market volatility and potential recession fears.
• Coterra Energy Inc (CTRA) is facing challenges in maintaining its oil production guidance due to the deferment of some projects.
• The company is experiencing a reduction in oil production by approximately 5,000 barrels per day in the second quarter relative to earlier expectations.

Q & A Highlights

Q: Can you clarify the impact of the Harkey shale issue on your future development plans and inventory depth? A: Thomas Jorden, CEO, explained that the Harkey issue is a local mechanical problem, not a strategic or inventory issue. The company is optimistic about resolving it with revised pipe design and cementing programs. The 3-year plan remains intact, and they do not foresee any long-term impact on inventory.

Q: How does the change in activity affect your 3-year plan for oil growth? A: The 3-year plan is unchanged, with expectations of 5% oil volume growth. The current adjustments are temporary, and the company remains committed to its long-term growth strategy.

Q: What is your outlook on the current weak oil environment and its duration? A: Jorden noted the volatility introduced by the new administration and global factors. The company is prepared for the weak environment to persist and is adjusting its capital allocation accordingly, with a focus on flexibility and resilience.

Q: How do you prioritize between buybacks and debt reduction if commodity prices weaken? A: CFO Shannon Young emphasized that debt repayment is the priority for 2025 to maintain low leverage, which enables shareholder returns. Buybacks will be opportunistic and back-end weighted.

Q: What are your plans for the Marcellus given the current natural gas outlook? A: Jorden highlighted the company's efficient redesign of the Marcellus program, which supports a growth profile. The company is encouraged by the economic and reservoir performance of its natural gas assets and plans to continue investing in the Marcellus.

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.