Latest news with #Birchcliff
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Birchcliff Energy Ltd. Announces Voting Results from 2025 Annual Meeting of Shareholders
CALGARY, Alberta, May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Birchcliff Energy Ltd. ('Birchcliff') (TSX: BIR) is pleased to announce that at its Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on May 15, 2025 (the 'Meeting'), shareholders elected all six of the proposed director nominees listed in Birchcliff's information circular dated March 26, 2025 (the 'Information Circular') and approved all other matters voted upon at the Meeting. The matters voted upon at the Meeting were discussed in detail in the Information Circular, a copy of which is available on SEDAR+ at and on Birchcliff's website at The voting results for each matter voted upon are set forth in the table below and a copy of the Report of Voting Results is available on SEDAR+ at Matters Voted Upon Outcome of Vote Votes For Votes Against orWithheld, as applicable 1. Ordinary resolution to fix the number of directors of Birchcliff to be elected at the Meeting at six. Passed 135,193,57699.32% 931,4020.68% 2. Ordinary resolution to approve the election of the following nominees as directors of Birchcliff, to hold office until the close of the next annual meeting of shareholders of Birchcliff or until their successor is elected or appointed: (a) Dennis Dawson Elected 93,944,91070.49% 39,329,81829.51% (b) Debra Gerlach Elected 131,655,47598.79% 1,619,2531.21% (c) Stacey McDonald Elected 129,029,64496.81% 4,245,0843.19% (d) Cameron Proctor Elected 131,458,28998.64% 1,816,4391.36% (e) James Surbey Elected 132,282,76799.26% 991,9610.74% (f) A. Jeffery Tonken Elected 129,135,47696.89% 4,139,2523.11% 3. Ordinary resolution to approve the appointment of KPMG LLP, Chartered Professional Accountants, as the auditors of Birchcliff, to hold office until the close of the next annual meeting of shareholders of Birchcliff, and to authorize the board of directors to fix their remuneration as such. Passed 134,726,65398.97% 1,398,3251.03% ABOUT BIRCHCLIFF: Birchcliff is an intermediate oil and natural gas company based in Calgary, Alberta with operations focused on the exploration and development of the Montney/Doig Resource Play in Alberta. Birchcliff's common shares are listed for trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol 'BIR'. For further information, please contact: Birchcliff Energy 1000, 600 – 3rd Avenue S.W. Calgary, Alberta T2P 0G5Telephone: (403) 261-6401Email: birinfo@ Chris Carlsen – President and Chief Executive OfficerBruno Geremia – Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Birchcliff Energy Ltd. Announces Strong Q1 2025 Results and Declares Q2 2025 Dividend
CALGARY, Alberta, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Birchcliff Energy Ltd. ('Birchcliff' or the 'Corporation') (TSX: BIR) is pleased to announce its Q1 2025 financial and operational results. Chris Carlsen, Birchcliff's President and Chief Executive Officer, commented: 'We are pleased to report strong operational and financial results for the first quarter of 2025, driven by our continued focus on operational excellence and our high-quality asset base. We successfully executed our Q1 capital program, drilling 14 wells and bringing 8 wells onstream, resulting in first quarter average production of 77,363 boe/d. We generated adjusted funds flow(1) of $124.4 million in Q1 2025 (an 88% increase from Q1 2024), driven by increased production and a stronger average realized natural gas sales price, which benefitted from our natural gas market diversification, with approximately 78% of our natural gas volumes realizing U.S. pricing at the Dawn and NYMEX HH markets. We achieved free funds flow(1) of $12.6 million in the first quarter, notwithstanding that approximately 40%(2) of our full-year capital budget was invested in Q1 2025 prior to spring break-up. With a substantial portion of our capital program behind us, we expect to generate significant free funds flow during the remainder of the year, which will be allocated primarily towards reducing our total debt(3) by approximately 28% from year end 2024(4) , after the payment of our base dividend. Our 2025 production guidance and capital program are unchanged and we remain focused on capital efficiency improvements, driving down our costs and strengthening our balance sheet. This year marks a significant milestone for Birchcliff as we celebrate our 20th anniversary. We extend our gratitude to our dedicated staff, our board of directors and our shareholders for their support over the years. Together, we look forward to a promising future, leveraging our strengths to navigate the evolving market, drive profitable growth and deliver long-term shareholder value.' Q1 2025 FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL HIGHLIGHTS Delivered average production of 77,363 boe/d (82% natural gas, 10% NGLs, 6% condensate and 2% light oil), a 3% increase from Q1 2024. Generated adjusted funds flow of $124.4 million, or $0.46 per basic common share(5), an 88% and 84% increase, respectively, from Q1 2024. Cash flow from operating activities was $126.1 million, a 93% increase from Q1 2024. Reported net income to common shareholders of $65.7 million, or $0.24 per basic common share, as compared to a net loss to common shareholders of $15.0 million and $0.06 per basic common share in Q1 2024. Birchcliff's market diversification contributed to an effective average realized natural gas sales price(5) of $4.89/Mcf in Q1 2025, which represents a 142% premium to the average benchmark AECO 7A Monthly Index price in the quarter. Achieved an operating netback(5) of $17.71/boe, a 38% increase from Q1 2024. Birchcliff had a very active first quarter capital program, drilling 14 (14.0 net) wells and bringing 8 (8.0 net) wells on production, with F&D capital expenditures totalling $111.8 million in Q1 2025. Birchcliff's unaudited interim condensed financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and related management's discussion and analysis will be available on its website at and on SEDAR+ at Birchcliff's updated corporate presentation will be available on its website at on May 14, 2025. ______________________________ (1) Non-GAAP financial measure. See 'Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures'. (2) Based on the mid-point of Birchcliff's 2025 capital budget of $260 million to $300 million. (3) Capital management measure. See 'Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures'. (4) Based on the mid-point of Birchcliff's total debt guidance range at year end 2025 of $365 million to $405 million and as compared to Birchcliff's total debt at year end 2024 of $535.6 million. (5) Non-GAAP ratio. See 'Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures'. DECLARATION OF Q2 2025 QUARTERLY DIVIDEND Birchcliff's board of directors (the 'Board') has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.03 per common share for the quarter ending June 30, 2025. The dividend will be payable on June 30, 2025 to shareholders of record at the close of business on June 13, 2025. The dividend has been designated as an eligible dividend for the purposes of the Income Tax Act (Canada). EXTENSION OF CREDIT FACILITIES Subsequent to the end of Q1 2025, Birchcliff's syndicate of lenders completed its regular semi-annual review of the borrowing base limit under the Corporation's extendible revolving credit facilities (the 'Credit Facilities'). In connection therewith, the agreement governing the Credit Facilities was amended effective May 7, 2025 to extend the maturity dates of each of the syndicated extendible revolving term credit facility and the extendible revolving working capital facility from May 11, 2027 to May 11, 2028. In addition, the lenders confirmed the borrowing base limit at $850 million. The Credit Facilities do not contain any financial maintenance covenants. ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS Birchcliff's annual meeting of shareholders is scheduled to take place tomorrow, Thursday, May 15, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. (Mountain Daylight Time) in the McMurray Room at the Calgary Petroleum Club, 319 – 5th Avenue S.W., Calgary, Alberta. This press release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. For further information regarding the forward-looking statements and forward-looking information contained herein, see 'Advisories – Forward-Looking Statements'. With respect to the disclosure of Birchcliff's production contained in this press release, production volumes have been disclosed on a 'gross' basis, as such term is defined in National Instrument 51-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities (''). For further information regarding the disclosure of Birchcliff's production contained herein, see 'Advisories – Production'. In addition, this press release uses various 'non-GAAP financial measures', 'non-GAAP ratios' and 'capital management measures' as such terms are defined in National Instrument 52-112 – Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Disclosure (''). Non-GAAP financial measures and non-GAAP ratios are not standardized financial measures under GAAP and might not be comparable to similar financial measures disclosed by other issuers. For further information regarding the non-GAAP and other financial measures used in this press release, see 'Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures'. Q1 2025 UNAUDITED FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL SUMMARY Three months ended Three months ended March 31, 2025 March 31, 2024 OPERATING Average production Light oil (bbls/d) 1,795 1,525 Condensate (bbls/d) 4,238 4,765 NGLs (bbls/d) 7,626 7,397 Natural gas (Mcf/d) 382,224 370,288 Total (boe/d) 77,363 75,402 Average realized sales prices (CDN$) Light oil (per bbl) 95.27 95.24 Condensate (per bbl) 97.98 100.26 NGLs (per bbl) 27.95 27.59 Natural gas (per Mcf) 3.64 2.61 Total (per boe) 28.32 23.80 NETBACK AND COST ($/boe) Petroleum and natural gas revenue 28.32 23.80 Royalty expense (2.16 ) (2.11 ) Operating expense (3.04 )(1) (3.85 ) Transportation and other expense(2) (5.41 ) (4.99 ) Operating netback(2) 17.71 12.85 G&A expense, net (1.42 ) (1.28 ) Interest expense (1.27 ) (1.13 ) Lease interest expense (0.33 )(1) - Realized gain (loss) on financial instruments 3.18 (0.82 ) Other cash income - 0.01 Adjusted funds flow(2) 17.87 9.63 Depletion and depreciation expense (8.99 ) (8.56 ) Unrealized gain (loss) on financial instruments 3.53 (3.28 ) Other expenses(3) (0.48 ) (0.52 ) Deferred income tax (expense) recovery (2.49 ) 0.54 Net income (loss) to common shareholders 9.44 (2.19 ) FINANCIAL Petroleum and natural gas revenue ($000s) 197,188 163,304 Cash flow from operating activities ($000s) 126,097 65,255 Adjusted funds flow ($000s)(4) 124,413 66,081 Per basic common share ($)(2) 0.46 0.25 Free funds flow ($000s)(4) 12,594 (36,692 ) Per basic common share ($)(2) 0.05 (0.14 ) Net income (loss) to common shareholders ($000s) 65,727 (15,035 ) Per basic common share ($) 0.24 (0.06 ) End of period basic common shares (000s) 272,071 268,578 Weighted average basic common shares (000s) 271,614 267,905 Dividends on common shares ($000s) 8,151 26,857 F&D capital expenditures ($000s)(5) 111,819 102,773 Total capital expenditures ($000s)(4) 112,473 103,484 Revolving term credit facilities ($000s) 518,581 428,566 Total debt ($000s)(6) 534,710 443,380 (1) Effective July 1, 2024, Birchcliff assumed operatorship of a third-party natural gas processing facility that resulted in the take-or-pay commitment associated with the underlying processing arrangement (the 'Gas Processing Lease') being classified as a lease under IFRS Accounting Standards. Birchcliff's operating expense and lease interest expense for the three months ended March 31, 2025 include the financial effects of the Gas Processing Lease. (2) Non-GAAP ratio. See 'Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures'. (3) Includes non-cash items such as compensation, accretion, amortization of deferred financing fees and other gains and losses. (4) Non-GAAP financial measure. See 'Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures'. (5) See 'Advisories – F&D Capital Expenditures'. (6) Capital management measure. See 'Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures'. 2025 GUIDANCE Birchcliff is reaffirming its 2025 annual average production guidance of 76,000 to 79,000 boe/d and F&D capital expenditures guidance of $260 million to $300 million. As a result of the continued volatility in commodity prices driven by the uncertainties surrounding tariffs, global trade tensions and OPEC+ production increases, Birchcliff has lowered its commodity price assumptions for the remainder of 2025 and revised its guidance for adjusted funds flow, free funds flow and total debt accordingly. In addition, the Corporation has lowered its royalty expense guidance for 2025, primarily due to lower oil prices forecasted for the remainder of the year. Birchcliff expects to significantly strengthen its balance sheet in 2025, with free funds flow (after the payment of dividends) anticipated to be allocated primarily towards debt reduction. Based on its current commodity price assumptions, Birchcliff expects to exit 2025 with total debt of $365 million to $405 million, which represents a 28% reduction from its total debt at year end 2024 of $535.6 million. The following tables set forth Birchcliff's updated and previous guidance and commodity price assumptions for 2025, as well as its free funds flow sensitivity: Updated 2025 guidance and assumptions – May 14, 2025(1) Previous 2025 guidance and assumptions – March 12, 2025 Production Annual average production (boe/d) 76,000 – 79,000 76,000 – 79,000 % Light oil 3% 3% % Condensate 6% 6% % NGLs 9% 9% % Natural gas 82% 82% Average Expenses ($/boe) Royalty $1.90 – $2.10 $2.10 – $2.30 Operating $2.90 – $3.10 $2.90 – $3.10 Transportation and other(2) $5.55 – $5.75 $5.55 – $5.75 Adjusted Funds Flow (millions)(3) $480 $580 F&D Capital Expenditures (millions) $260 – $300 $260 – $300 Free Funds Flow (millions)(3) $180 – $220 $280 – $320 Total Debt at Year End (millions)(4) $365 – $405 $265 – $305 Natural Gas Market Exposure AECO exposure as a % of total natural gas production 23% 23% Dawn exposure as a % of total natural gas production 41% 41% NYMEX HH exposure as a % of total natural gas production 35% 35% Alliance exposure as a % of total natural gas production 1% 1% Commodity Prices Average WTI price (US$/bbl) $61.75(5) $67.00 Average WTI-MSW differential (CDN$/bbl) $5.60(5) $8.80 Average AECO price (CDN$/GJ) $2.30(5) $2.20 Average Dawn price (US$/MMBtu) $3.65(5) $4.20 Average NYMEX HH price (US$/MMBtu) $3.95(5) $4.50 Exchange rate (CDN$ to US$1) 1.41(5) 1.44Forward eight months' free funds flow sensitivity(5)(6) Estimated change to 2025 free funds flow (millions) Change in WTI US$1.00/bbl $2.6 Change in NYMEX HH US$0.10/MMBtu $4.5 Change in Dawn US$0.10/MMBtu $5.5 Change in AECO CDN$0.10/GJ $2.4 Change in CDN/US exchange rate CDN$0.01 $3.5 (1) Birchcliff's guidance for its production commodity mix, adjusted funds flow, free funds flow, total debt and natural gas market exposure in 2025 is based on an annual average production rate of 77,500 boe/d in 2025, which is the mid-point of Birchcliff's annual average production guidance range for 2025. Changes in assumed commodity prices and variances in production forecasts can have an impact on the Corporation's forecasts of adjusted funds flow and free funds flow and the Corporation's other guidance, which impact could be material. In addition, any acquisitions or dispositions completed over the course of 2025 could have an impact on Birchcliff's 2025 guidance and assumptions set forth herein, which impact could be material. For further information regarding the risks and assumptions relating to the Corporation's guidance, see 'Advisories – Forward-Looking Statements'. (2) Non-GAAP ratio. See 'Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures'. (3) Non-GAAP financial measure. See 'Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures'. (4) Capital management measure. See 'Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures'. (5) Birchcliff's updated commodity price and exchange rate assumptions and free funds flow sensitivity for 2025 are based on anticipated full-year averages using the Corporation's anticipated forward benchmark commodity prices and the CDN/US exchange rate as of May 5, 2025, which include settled benchmark commodity prices and the CDN/US exchange rate for the period from January 1, 2025 to April 30, 2025. (6) Illustrates the expected impact of changes in commodity prices and the CDN/US exchange rate on the Corporation's updated forecast of free funds flow for 2025, holding all other variables constant. The sensitivity is based on the updated commodity price and exchange rate assumptions set forth in the table above. The calculated impact on free funds flow is only applicable within the limited range of change indicated. Calculations are performed independently and may not be indicative of actual results. Actual results may vary materially when multiple variables change at the same time and/or when the magnitude of the change increases. The oil and natural gas industry in Canada, along with other industries, has faced considerable uncertainty in respect of the United States' evolving trade policy. Although Birchcliff currently anticipates that U.S. tariffs will not have a material impact on its business, this considerable uncertainty makes it impossible to predict what, if any, impacts there might be on the Corporation's business. Birchcliff will continue to monitor developments in U.S. trade policy, assess any potential impacts on the Corporation's business and will update its guidance if, as and when appropriate. Q1 2025 FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL RESULTS Production Birchcliff's production averaged 77,363 boe/d in Q1 2025, a 3% increase from Q1 2024. The increase was primarily due to the strong performance of the Corporation's capital program and the successful drilling of new Montney/Doig wells brought on production since Q1 2024, specifically high-rate natural gas wells in liquids-rich zones in Pouce Coupe and light oil and liquids-rich natural gas wells in Gordondale, partially offset by natural production declines. Liquids accounted for 18% of Birchcliff's total production in both Q1 2025 and Q1 2024. Adjusted Funds Flow and Cash Flow From Operating Activities Birchcliff's adjusted funds flow was $124.4 million in Q1 2025, or $0.46 per basic common share, an 88% and 84% increase, respectively, from Q1 2024. Birchcliff's cash flow from operating activities was $126.1 million in Q1 2025, a 93% increase from Q1 2024. The increases were primarily due to higher natural gas revenue, which largely resulted from higher natural gas production in Q1 2025 and a 39% increase in the average realized natural gas sales price Birchcliff received for such production as compared to Q1 2024. Adjusted funds flow and cash flow from operating activities were also positively impacted by a realized gain on financial instruments of $22.2 million in Q1 2025 as compared to a realized loss on financial instruments of $5.6 million in Q1 2024. Net Income (Loss) to Common Shareholders Birchcliff reported net income to common shareholders of $65.7 million in Q1 2025, or $0.24 per basic common share, as compared to a net loss to common shareholders of $15.0 million and $0.06 per basic common share in Q1 2024. The change to a net income position was primarily due to higher adjusted funds flow and an unrealized gain on financial instruments of $24.6 million in Q1 2025 as compared to an unrealized loss on financial instruments of $22.5 million in Q1 2024, partially offset by a deferred income tax expense of $17.3 million in Q1 2025 as compared to a deferred income tax recovery of $3.7 million in Q1 2024. Capital Activities and Investment Birchcliff had a very active first quarter capital program, drilling 14 (14.0 net) wells and bringing 8 (8.0 net) wells on production, with F&D capital expenditures totalling $111.8 million in Q1 2025. Debt and Credit Facilities Total debt at March 31, 2025 was $534.7 million, a 21% increase from March 31, 2024. At March 31, 2025, Birchcliff had a balance outstanding under its Credit Facilities of $522.3 million (March 31, 2024: $430.2 million) from available Credit Facilities of $850.0 million (March 31, 2024: $850.0 million), leaving the Corporation with $327.7 million (39%) of unutilized credit capacity after adjusting for outstanding letters of credit and unamortized deferred financing fees. Natural Gas Market Diversification Birchcliff's physical natural gas sales exposure primarily consists of the AECO, Dawn and Alliance markets. In addition, the Corporation has various financial instruments outstanding that provide it with exposure to NYMEX HH pricing. The following table sets forth Birchcliff's effective sales, production and average realized sales price for its natural gas and liquids for Q1 2025, after taking into account the Corporation's financial instruments: Three months ended March 31, 2025 Effective sales(CDN$000s) Percentage of total sales (%) Effectiveproduction(per day) Percentage of total natural gas production(%) Percentage of total corporate production(%) Effective average realizedsales price(CDN$) Market AECO(1)(2) 16,210 7 82,553 Mcf 22 18 2.18/Mcf Dawn(3) 82,094 34 162,982 Mcf 43 35 5.60/Mcf NYMEX HH(1)(4) 69,988 29 136,689 Mcf 35 29 5.69/Mcf Total natural gas(1) 168,292 70 382,224 Mcf 100 82 4.89/Mcf Light oil 15,391 6 1,795 bbls 2 95.27/bbl Condensate 37,371 16 4,238 bbls 6 97.98/bbl NGLs 19,183 8 7,626 bbls 10 27.95/bbl Total liquids 17,945 30 13,659 bbls 18 58.52/bbl Total corporate(1) 240,237 100 77,363 boe 100 34.50/boe (1) Effective sales and effective average realized sales price on a total natural gas and total corporate basis and for the AECO and NYMEX HH markets are non-GAAP financial measures and non-GAAP ratios, respectively. See 'Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures'. (2) Birchcliff has short-term physical sales agreements with third-party marketers to sell and deliver into the Alliance pipeline system. All of Birchcliff's short-term physical Alliance sales and production during Q1 2025 received AECO premium pricing and have therefore been included as effective sales and production in the AECO market. (3) Birchcliff has agreements for the firm service transportation of an aggregate of 175,000 GJ/d of natural gas on TransCanada PipeLines' Canadian Mainline, whereby natural gas is transported to the Dawn trading hub in Southern Ontario. (4) NYMEX HH effective sales and production include financial NYMEX HH/AECO 7A basis swap contracts for an aggregate of 147,500 MMBtu/d at an average contract price of NYMEX HH less US$1.088/MMBtu during Q1 2025. Birchcliff's effective average realized sales price for NYMEX HH of CDN$5.69/Mcf (US$3.65/MMBtu) was determined on a gross basis before giving effect to the average NYMEX HH/AECO 7A fixed contract basis differential price of CDN$1.70/Mcf (US$1.088/MMBtu) and includes any realized gains and losses on financial NYMEX HH/AECO 7A basis swap contracts during Q1 2025. After giving effect to the NYMEX HH/AECO 7A fixed contract basis differential price and including any realized gains and losses on financial NYMEX HH/AECO 7A basis swap contracts during Q1 2025, Birchcliff's effective average realized net sales price for NYMEX HH was CDN$3.99/Mcf (US$2.56/MMBtu) in Q1 2025. The following table sets forth Birchcliff's physical sales, production, average realized sales price, transportation costs and natural gas sales netback by natural gas market for the periods indicated, before taking into account the Corporation's financial instruments: Three months ended March 31, 2025 Natural gas market Natural gas sales(CDN$000s) Percentage of natural gas sales (%) Natural gas production(Mcf/d) Percentage of natural gas production(%) Average realizednatural gas sales price(CDN$/Mcf) Natural gas transportation costs(1) (CDN$/Mcf) Natural gas sales netback(2)(CDN$/Mcf) AECO 42,368 34 215,026 56 2.19 0.46 1.73 Dawn 82,094 65 162,982 43 5.60 1.55 4.05 Alliance(3) 769 1 4,216 1 2.03 - 2.03 Total 125,231 100 382,224 100 3.64 0.92 2.72 Three months ended March 31, 2024 Natural gas market Natural gas sales(CDN$000s) Percentage of natural gas sales (%) Natural gas production(Mcf/d) Percentage of natural gas production(%) Average realized natural gas sales price(CDN$/Mcf) Natural gas transportation costs(1)(CDN$/Mcf) Natural gas sales netback(2)(CDN$/Mcf) AECO 38,639 44 195,141 53 2.19 0.40 1.79 Dawn 45,198 51 161,667 44 3.07 1.41 1.66 Alliance(3) 4,185 5 13,480 3 3.41 - 3.41 Total 88,022 100 370,288 100 2.61 0.83 1.78 (1) Reflects costs to transport natural gas from the field receipt point to the delivery sales trading hub. (2) Natural gas sales netback denotes the average realized natural gas sales price less natural gas transportation costs. (3) Birchcliff has short-term physical sales agreements with third-party marketers to sell and deliver into the Alliance pipeline system. Alliance sales are indexed to the AECO 5A benchmark index price and are recorded net of transportation tolls. OPERATIONAL UPDATE Birchcliff's 2025 capital budget of $260 million to $300 million includes the drilling of 25 (25.0 net) wells and the bringing on production of 26 (26.0 net) wells in 2025. Year-to-date, the Corporation has drilled 15 (15.0 net) wells and brought 12 (12.0 net) wells on production. In the first quarter of 2025, Birchcliff delivered strong execution metrics, building on the operational momentum and key learnings from a successful capital program in 2024. Birchcliff's teams continue to demonstrate a steadfast focus on execution, operational efficiency and disciplined cost management. Birchcliff's purposeful execution is helping to strengthen its performance and position the business for sustainable growth through the remainder of the year and in the long-term. Pouce Coupe Birchcliff completed the drilling of its 5-well 04-05 pad in December 2024 and the wells were turned over to production through Birchcliff's permanent facilities in early March 2025. This pad targeted high-rate natural gas wells in the Lower Montney. The wells have shown strong production rates exhibiting low declines as highlighted in the table below, which summarizes the aggregate and average production rates for the wells from the pad: Wells: IP 30(1) Wells: IP 60(1) Aggregate production rate (boe/d) 6,130 5,578 Aggregate natural gas production rate (Mcf/d) 34,691 31,864 Aggregate condensate production rate (bbls/d) 348 267 Average per well production rate (boe/d) 1,226 1,116 Average per well natural gas production rate (Mcf/d) 6,938 6,373 Average per well condensate production rate (bbls/d) 70 53 Condensate-to-gas ratio (bbls/MMcf) 10 8 (1) Represents the cumulative volumes for each well measured at the wellhead separator for the 30 or 60 days (as applicable) of production immediately after each well was considered stabilized after producing fracture treatment fluid back to surface in an amount such that flow rates of hydrocarbons became reliable. The natural gas volumes represent raw natural gas volumes as opposed to sales gas volumes. See 'Advisories – Initial Production Rates'. Completions operations on Birchcliff's 3-well 07-10 pad were finished in March 2025 and the wells were turned over to production through the Corporation's permanent facilities in April 2025. This pad targeted condensate-rich natural gas wells in the Lower Montney. Completions operations on Birchcliff's 4-well 05-19 pad were finished in April 2025 and flowback operations were recently completed. The wells are currently scheduled to be turned over to production through the Corporation's permanent facilities later in May 2025. This pad targeted condensate-rich natural gas wells in the Lower Montney. Completions operations are underway on Birchcliff's 4-well 03-06 pad and the wells are currently scheduled to be turned over to production through the Corporation's permanent facilities in June 2025. This pad targeted condensate-rich natural gas wells in the Lower Montney. In the second half of April 2025, Birchcliff successfully completed the first phase of its planned turnaround at its Pouce Coupe gas plant. The second phase of the turnaround is well underway and is expected to be completed shortly. Gordondale Completions operations on Birchcliff's 4-well 02-27 pad were finished in March 2025 and the wells were turned over to production through the Corporation's permanent facilities in May 2025. This pad targeted condensate-rich natural gas wells in the Lower Montney. Elmworth As previously disclosed in its March 12, 2025 press release, Birchcliff completed a horizontal Montney land retention well in February 2025 and performed a 10.5 day flow test on the well. Birchcliff continues to progress the formal planning for the construction of a proposed 100% owned and operated 80 MMcf/d natural gas processing plant in Elmworth. In the second half of March 2025, Birchcliff held an open house in the area to discuss its proposed plans for the area with community residents. ABBREVIATIONS AECO benchmark price for natural gas determined at the AECO 'C' hub in southeast Alberta bbl barrel bbls barrels bbls/d barrels per day boe barrel of oil equivalent boe/d barrel of oil equivalent per day condensate pentanes plus (C5+) F&D finding and development G&A general and administrative GAAP generally accepted accounting principles for Canadian public companies, which are currently IFRS Accounting Standards GJ gigajoule GJ/d gigajoules per day HH Henry Hub IFRS International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board IP initial production Mcf thousand cubic feet Mcf/d thousand cubic feet per day MMBtu million British thermal units MMBtu/d million British thermal units per day MMcf million cubic feet MMcf/d million cubic feet per day MSW price for mixed sweet crude oil at Edmonton, Alberta NGLs natural gas liquids consisting of ethane (C2), propane (C3) and butane (C4) and specifically excluding condensate NYMEX New York Mercantile Exchange OPEC Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries OPEC+ OPEC plus certain other oil-producing countries Q quarter WTI West Texas Intermediate, the reference price paid in U.S. dollars at Cushing, Oklahoma, for crude oil of standard grade 000s thousands $000s thousands of dollars NON-GAAP AND OTHER FINANCIAL MEASURES This press release uses various 'non-GAAP financial measures', 'non-GAAP ratios' and 'capital management measures' (as such terms are defined in NI 52-112), which are described in further detail below. Non-GAAP Financial Measures NI 52-112 defines a non-GAAP financial measure as a financial measure that: (i) depicts the historical or expected future financial performance, financial position or cash flow of an entity; (ii) with respect to its composition, excludes an amount that is included in, or includes an amount that is excluded from, the composition of the most directly comparable financial measure disclosed in the primary financial statements of the entity; (iii) is not disclosed in the financial statements of the entity; and (iv) is not a ratio, fraction, percentage or similar representation. The non-GAAP financial measures used in this press release are not standardized financial measures under GAAP and might not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. Investors are cautioned that non-GAAP financial measures should not be construed as alternatives to or more meaningful than the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures as indicators of Birchcliff's performance. Set forth below is a description of the non-GAAP financial measures used in this press defines 'adjusted funds flow' as cash flow from operating activities before the effects of decommissioning expenditures, retirement benefit payments and changes in non-cash operating working capital. Birchcliff eliminates settlements of decommissioning expenditures from cash flow from operating activities as the amounts can be discretionary and may vary from period to period depending on its capital programs and the maturity of its operating areas. The settlement of decommissioning expenditures is managed with Birchcliff's capital budgeting process which considers available adjusted funds flow. Birchcliff eliminates retirement benefit payments from cash flow from operating activities as such payments reflect costs for past service and contributions made by eligible executives under the Corporation's post-employment benefit plan, which are not indicative of the current period. Changes in non-cash operating working capital are eliminated in the determination of adjusted funds flow as the timing of collection and payment are variable and by excluding them from the calculation, the Corporation believes that it is able to provide a more meaningful measure of its operations and ability to generate cash on a continuing basis. Management believes that adjusted funds flow assists management and investors in assessing Birchcliff's financial performance after deducting all operating and corporate cash costs, as well as its ability to generate the cash necessary to fund sustaining and/or growth capital expenditures, repay debt, settle decommissioning obligations, buy back common shares and pay dividends. Birchcliff defines 'free funds flow' as adjusted funds flow less F&D capital expenditures. Management believes that free funds flow assists management and investors in assessing Birchcliff's ability to generate shareholder value and returns through a number of initiatives, including, but not limited to, debt repayment, common share buybacks, the payment of common share dividends, acquisitions and other opportunities that would complement or otherwise improve the Corporation's business and enhance long-term shareholder value. The most directly comparable GAAP financial measure to adjusted funds flow and free funds flow is cash flow from operating activities. The following table provides a reconciliation of cash flow from operating activities to adjusted funds flow and free funds flow for the periods indicated: Three months ended Twelve months ended March 31, December 31, ($000s) 2025 2024 2024 Cash flow from operating activities 126,097 65,255 203,710 Change in non-cash operating working capital (2,194 ) (13,163 ) 17,269 Decommissioning expenditures 510 138 1,964 Retirement benefit payments - 13,851 13,851 Adjusted funds flow 124,413 66,081 236,794 F&D capital expenditures (111,819 ) (102,773 ) (273,084 ) Free funds flow 12,594 (36,692 ) (36,290 ) Birchcliff has disclosed in this press release forecasts of adjusted funds flow and free funds flow for 2025, which are forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures. See '2025 Guidance'. The equivalent historical non-GAAP financial measures are adjusted funds flow and free funds flow for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024. Birchcliff anticipates the forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures for adjusted funds flow and free funds flow disclosed herein will be higher than their respective historical amounts, primarily due to higher anticipated benchmark natural gas prices in 2025 as compared to 2024. The commodity price assumptions on which the Corporation's guidance is based are set forth under the heading '2025 Guidance'.Birchcliff defines 'transportation and other expense' as transportation expense plus marketing purchases less marketing revenue. Birchcliff may enter into certain marketing purchase and sales arrangements with the objective of reducing any unused transportation or fractionation fees associated with its take-or-pay commitments and/or increasing the value of its production through value-added downstream initiatives. Management believes that transportation and other expense assists management and investors in assessing Birchcliff's total cost structure related to transportation and marketing activities. The most directly comparable GAAP financial measure to transportation and other expense is transportation expense. The following table provides a reconciliation of transportation expense to transportation and other expense for the periods indicated: Three months ended Twelve months ended March 31, December 31, ($000s) 2025 2024 2024 Transportation expense 37,519 36,625 149,534 Marketing purchases 14,910 7,111 51,496 Marketing revenue (14,748 ) (9,468 ) (54,069 ) Transportation and other expense 37,681 34,268 146,961 Birchcliff defines 'operating netback' as petroleum and natural gas revenue less royalty expense, operating expense and transportation and other expense. Operating netback is a key industry performance indicator and one that provides investors with information that is commonly presented by other oil and natural gas producers. Management believes that operating netback assists management and investors in assessing Birchcliff's operating profits after deducting the cash costs that are directly associated with the sale of its production, which can then be used to pay other corporate cash costs or satisfy other obligations. The following table provides a breakdown of Birchcliff's operating netback for the periods indicated: Three months ended ($000s) March 31, 2025 March 31, 2024 P&NG revenue 197,188 163,304 Royalty expense (15,039 ) (14,467 ) Operating expense (21,133 ) (26,427 ) Transportation and other expense (37,681 ) (34,268 ) Operating netback 123,335 88,142 Birchcliff defines 'total capital expenditures' as exploration and development expenditures less dispositions plus acquisitions (if any) and plus administrative assets. Management believes that total capital expenditures assists management and investors in assessing Birchcliff's overall capital cost structure associated with its petroleum and natural gas activities. The most directly comparable GAAP financial measure to total capital expenditures is exploration and development expenditures. The following table provides a reconciliation of exploration and development expenditures to total capital expenditures for the periods indicated: Three months ended ($000s) March 31, 2025 March 31, 2024 Exploration and development expenditures(1) 111,819 102,773 Dispositions - (109 ) Administrative assets 654 820 Total capital expenditures 112,473 103,484 (1) Disclosed as F&D capital expenditures elsewhere in this press release. See 'Advisories – F&D Capital Expenditures'.Birchcliff defines 'effective sales' in the AECO market and NYMEX HH market as the sales amount received from the production of natural gas that is effectively attributed to the AECO and NYMEX HH market pricing, respectively, and does not consider the physical sales delivery point in each case. Effective sales in the NYMEX HH market includes realized gains and losses on financial instruments and excludes the notional fixed basis costs associated with the underlying financial contract in the period. Birchcliff defines 'effective total natural gas sales' as the aggregate of the effective sales amount received in each natural gas market. Birchcliff defines 'effective total corporate sales' as the aggregate of the effective total natural gas sales and the sales amount received from the production of light oil, condensate and NGLs. Management believes that disclosing the effective sales for each natural gas market assists management and investors in assessing Birchcliff's natural gas diversification and commodity price exposure to each market. The most directly comparable GAAP financial measure to effective total natural gas sales and effective total corporate sales is natural gas sales. The following table provides a reconciliation of natural gas sales to effective total natural gas sales and effective total corporate sales for the periods indicated: Three months ended ($000s) March 31, 2025 March 31, 2024 Natural gas sales 125,231 88,022 Realized gain (loss) on financial instruments 22,167 (5,628 ) Notional fixed basis costs(1) 20,894 18,477 Effective total natural gas sales 168,292 100,871 Light oil sales 15,391 13,219 Condensate sales 37,371 43,477 NGLs sales 19,183 18,568 Effective total corporate sales 240,237 176,135 (1) Reflects the aggregate notional fixed basis cost associated with Birchcliff's financial NYMEX HH/AECO 7A basis swap contracts in the period. Non-GAAP Ratios NI 52-112 defines a non-GAAP ratio as a financial measure that: (i) is in the form of a ratio, fraction, percentage or similar representation; (ii) has a non-GAAP financial measure as one or more of its components; and (iii) is not disclosed in the financial statements of the entity. The non-GAAP ratios used in this press release are not standardized financial measures under GAAP and might not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. Set forth below is a description of the non-GAAP ratios used in this press calculates 'adjusted funds flow per boe' as aggregate adjusted funds flow in the period divided by the production (boe) in the period. Management believes that adjusted funds flow per boe assists management and investors in assessing Birchcliff's financial profitability and sustainability on a cash basis by isolating the impact of production volumes to better analyze its performance against prior periods on a comparable basis. Birchcliff calculates 'adjusted funds flow per basic common share' as aggregate adjusted funds flow in the period divided by the weighted average basic common shares outstanding at the end of the period. Management believes that adjusted funds flow per basic common share assists management and investors in assessing Birchcliff's financial strength on a per common share calculates 'free funds flow per basic common share' as aggregate free funds flow in the period divided by the weighted average basic common shares outstanding at the end of the period. Management believes that free funds flow per basic common share assists management and investors in assessing Birchcliff's financial strength and its ability to deliver shareholder returns on a per common share calculates 'transportation and other expense per boe' as aggregate transportation and other expense in the period divided by the production (boe) in the period. Management believes that transportation and other expense per boe assists management and investors in assessing Birchcliff's cost structure as it relates to its transportation and marketing activities by isolating the impact of production volumes to better analyze its performance against prior periods on a comparable calculates 'operating netback per boe' as aggregate operating netback in the period divided by the production (boe) in the period. Operating netback per boe is a key industry performance indicator and one that provides investors with information that is commonly presented by other oil and natural gas producers. Management believes that operating netback per boe assists management and investors in assessing Birchcliff's operating profitability and sustainability by isolating the impact of production volumes to better analyze its performance against prior periods on a comparable calculates 'effective average realized sales price' as effective sales, in each of total corporate, total natural gas, AECO market and NYMEX HH market, as the case may be, divided by the effective production in each of the markets during the period. Management believes that disclosing the effective average realized sales price for each natural gas market assists management and investors in comparing Birchcliff's commodity price realizations in each natural gas market on a per unit basis. Capital Management Measures NI 52-112 defines a capital management measure as a financial measure that: (i) is intended to enable an individual to evaluate an entity's objectives, policies and processes for managing the entity's capital; (ii) is not a component of a line item disclosed in the primary financial statements of the entity; (iii) is disclosed in the notes to the financial statements of the entity; and (iv) is not disclosed in the primary financial statements of the entity. Set forth below is a description of the capital management measure used in this press calculates 'total debt' at the end of the period as the amount outstanding under the Corporation's Credit Facilities plus working capital deficit (less working capital surplus) plus the fair value of the current asset portion of financial instruments less the fair value of the current liability portion of financial instruments and less the current portion of other liabilities discounted to the end of the period. The current portion of other liabilities has been excluded from total debt as these amounts have not been incurred and reflect future commitments in the normal course of operations. Management believes that total debt assists management and investors in assessing Birchcliff's overall liquidity and financial position at the end of the period. The following table provides a reconciliation of the amount outstanding under the Corporation's Credit Facilities, as determined in accordance with GAAP, to total debt for the periods indicated: As at ($000s) March 31, 2025 December 31, 2024 March 31, 2024 Revolving term credit facilities 518,581 566,857 428,566 Working capital (surplus) deficit(1) (67,109 ) (88,953 ) 34,261 Fair value of financial instruments – asset(2) 96,623 71,038 240 Fair value of financial instruments – liability(2) - - (14,550 ) Other liabilities(2) (13,385 ) (13,385 ) (5,137 ) Total debt 534,710 535,557 443,380 (1) Current liabilities less current assets. (2) Reflects the current portion only. ADVISORIES Unaudited Information All financial and operational information contained in this press release for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 is unaudited. Currency Unless otherwise indicated, all dollar amounts are expressed in Canadian dollars, all references to '$' and 'CDN$' are to Canadian dollars and all references to 'US$' are to United States dollars. Boe Conversions Boe amounts have been calculated by using the conversion ratio of 6 Mcf of natural gas to 1 bbl of oil. Boe amounts may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. A boe conversion ratio of 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. Given that the value ratio based on the current price of crude oil as compared to natural gas 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. MMBtu Pricing Conversions $1.00 per MMBtu equals $1.00 per Mcf based on a standard heat value Mcf. Oil and Gas Metrics This press release contains metrics commonly used in the oil and natural gas industry, including operating netback. These oil and gas metrics do not have any standardized meanings or standard methods of calculation and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. As such, they should not be used to make comparisons. Management uses these oil and gas metrics for its own performance measurements and to provide investors with measures to compare Birchcliff's performance over time; however, such measures are not reliable indicators of Birchcliff's future performance, which may not compare to Birchcliff's performance in previous periods, and therefore should not be unduly relied upon. For additional information regarding operating netback and how such metric is calculated, see 'Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures'. Production With respect to the disclosure of Birchcliff's production contained in this press release: (i) references to 'light oil' mean 'light crude oil and medium crude oil' as such term is defined in NI 51-101; (ii) references to 'liquids' mean 'light crude oil and medium crude oil' and 'natural gas liquids' (including condensate) as such terms are defined in NI 51-101; and (iii) references to 'natural gas' mean 'shale gas', which also includes an immaterial amount of 'conventional natural gas', as such terms are defined in NI 51-101. In addition, NI 51-101 includes condensate within the product type of natural gas liquids. Birchcliff has disclosed condensate separately from other natural gas liquids as the price of condensate as compared to other natural gas liquids is currently significantly higher and Birchcliff believes presenting the two commodities separately provides a more accurate description of its operations and results therefrom. With respect to the disclosure of Birchcliff's production contained in this press release, all production volumes have been disclosed on a 'gross' basis as such term is defined in NI 51-101, meaning Birchcliff's working interest (operating or non-operating) share before the deduction of royalties and without including any royalty interests of Birchcliff. Initial Production Rates Any references in this press release to initial production rates or other short-term production rates are useful in confirming the presence of hydrocarbons; however, such rates are not determinative of the rates at which such wells will continue to produce and decline thereafter and are not indicative of the long-term performance or the ultimate recovery of such wells. In addition, such rates may also include recovered 'load oil' or 'load water' fluids used in well completion stimulation. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such rates in calculating the aggregate production for Birchcliff. Such rates are based on field estimates and may be based on limited data available at this time. With respect to the production rates for the Corporation's 5-well 04-05 pad disclosed herein, such rates represent the cumulative volumes for each well measured at the wellhead separator for the 30 and 60 days (as applicable) of production immediately after each well was considered stabilized after producing fracture treatment fluid back to surface in an amount such that flow rates of hydrocarbons became reliable, divided by 30 or 60 (as applicable), which were then added together to determine the aggregate production rates for the 5-well pad and then divided by 5 to determine the per well average production rates. The production rates excluded the hours and days when the wells did not produce. To-date, no pressure transient or well-test interpretation has been carried out on any of the wells. The natural gas volumes represent raw natural gas volumes as opposed to sales gas volumes. Finding and Development (F&D) Capital Expenditures References in this press release to 'F&D capital expenditures' denotes exploration and development expenditures as disclosed in the Corporation's financial statements in accordance with GAAP, and is primarily comprised of capital for land, seismic, workovers, drilling and completions, well equipment and facilities and capitalized G&A costs and excludes any acquisitions, dispositions, administrative assets and the capitalized portion of cash incentive payments that have not been approved by the Board. Management believes that F&D capital expenditures assists management and investors in assessing Birchcliff's capital cost outlay associated with its exploration and development activities for the purposes of finding and developing its reserves. Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward‐looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively referred to as 'forward‐looking statements') within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release relate to future events or Birchcliff's future plans, strategy, operations, performance or financial position and are based on Birchcliff's current expectations, estimates, projections, beliefs and assumptions. Such forward-looking statements have been made by Birchcliff in light of the information available to it at the time the statements were made and reflect its experience and perception of historical trends. All statements and information other than historical fact may be forward‐looking statements. Such forward‐looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as 'seek, 'plan', 'focus', 'future', 'outlook', 'position', 'expect', 'project', 'intend', 'believe', 'anticipate', 'estimate', 'forecast', 'guidance', 'potential', 'proposed', 'predict', 'budget', 'continue', 'targeting', 'may', 'will', 'could', 'might', 'should', 'would', 'on track', 'maintain', 'deliver' and other similar words and expressions. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve 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 statements. Accordingly, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Although Birchcliff believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct and Birchcliff makes no representation that actual results achieved will be the same in whole or in part as those set out in the forward-looking statements. In particular, this press release contains forward‐looking statements relating to: Birchcliff's plans and other aspects of its anticipated future financial performance, results, operations, focus, objectives, strategies, opportunities, priorities and goals, including: Birchcliff's continued focus on operational excellence; that with a substantial portion of its capital program behind it, Birchcliff expects to generate significant free funds flow during the remainder of the year, which will be allocated primarily towards reducing its total debt by approximately 28% from year end 2024, after the payment of its base dividend; that Birchcliff's 2025 production guidance and capital program are unchanged and it remains focused on capital efficiency improvements, driving down its costs and strengthening its balance sheet; and that Birchcliff looks forward to a promising future, leveraging its strengths to navigate the evolving market, drive profitable growth and deliver long-term shareholder value; the information set forth under the heading '2025 Guidance' and elsewhere in this press release as it relates to Birchcliff's guidance for 2025, including: that as a result of the continued volatility in commodity prices driven by the uncertainties surrounding tariffs, global trade tensions and OPEC+ production increases, Birchcliff has lowered its commodity price assumptions for the remainder of 2025; that lower oil prices are forecasted for the remainder of the year; that Birchcliff expects to significantly strengthen its balance sheet in 2025, with free funds flow (after the payment of dividends) anticipated to be allocated primarily towards debt reduction; that based on its current commodity price assumptions, Birchcliff expects to exit 2025 with total debt of $365 million to $405 million, which represents a 28% reduction from its total debt at year end 2024 of $535.6 million; forecasts of annual average production, production commodity mix, average expenses, adjusted funds flow, F&D capital expenditures, free funds flow, total debt at year end, natural gas market exposure and the expected impact of changes in commodity prices and the CDN/US exchange rate on Birchcliff's forecast of free funds flow; and that Birchcliff currently anticipates that U.S. tariffs will not have a material impact on its business; the information set forth under the heading 'Operational Update' and elsewhere in this press release regarding Birchcliff's 2025 capital program and its exploration, production and development activities and plans (including its plans for Elmworth) and the timing thereof, including: that Birchcliff's 2025 capital budget of $260 million to $300 million includes the drilling of 25 (25.0 net) wells and the bringing on production of 26 (26.0 net) wells in 2025; that Birchcliff's teams continue to demonstrate a steadfast focus on execution, operational efficiency and disciplined cost management; that Birchcliff's purposeful execution is helping to strengthen its performance and position the business for sustainable growth through the remainder of the year and in the long-term; the expected timing for wells to be brought on production and the completion of the turnaround at Birchcliff's Pouce Coupe gas plant; targeted product types; and that Birchcliff is progressing the formal planning for the construction of a proposed 100% owned and operated 80 MMcf/d natural gas processing plant in Elmworth; and that Birchcliff anticipates the forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures for adjusted funds flow and free funds flow disclosed herein will be higher than their respective historical amounts, primarily due to higher anticipated benchmark natural gas prices in 2025 as compared to 2024. With respect to the forward-looking statements contained in this press release, assumptions have been made regarding, among other things: prevailing and future commodity prices and differentials, exchange rates, interest rates, inflation rates, royalty rates and tax rates; the state of the economy, financial markets and the exploration, development and production business; the political environment in which Birchcliff operates; tariffs and trade policies; the regulatory framework regarding royalties, taxes, environmental, climate change and other laws; the Corporation's ability to comply with existing and future laws; future cash flow, debt and dividend levels; future operating, transportation, G&A and other expenses; Birchcliff's ability to access capital and obtain financing on acceptable terms; the timing and amount of capital expenditures and the sources of funding for capital expenditures and other activities; the sufficiency of budgeted capital expenditures to carry out planned operations; the successful and timely implementation of capital projects and the timing, location and extent of future drilling and other operations; results of operations; Birchcliff's ability to continue to develop its assets and obtain the anticipated benefits therefrom; the performance of existing and future wells; reserves volumes and Birchcliff's ability to replace and expand reserves through acquisition, development or exploration; the impact of competition on Birchcliff; the availability of, demand for and cost of labour, services and materials; the approval of the Board of future dividends; the ability to obtain any necessary regulatory or other approvals in a timely manner; the satisfaction by third parties of their obligations to Birchcliff; the ability of Birchcliff to secure adequate processing and transportation for its products; Birchcliff's ability to successfully market natural gas and liquids; the results of the Corporation's risk management and market diversification activities; and Birchcliff's natural gas market exposure. In addition to the foregoing assumptions, Birchcliff has made the following assumptions with respect to certain forward-looking statements contained in this press release: With respect to Birchcliff's 2025 guidance (as updated on May 14, 2025), such guidance is based on the commodity price, exchange rate and other assumptions set forth under the heading '2025 Guidance'. In addition: Birchcliff's production guidance assumes that: the 2025 capital program will be carried out as currently contemplated; no unexpected outages occur in the infrastructure that Birchcliff relies on to produce its wells and that any transportation service curtailments or unplanned outages that occur will be short in duration or otherwise insignificant; the construction of new infrastructure meets timing and operational expectations; existing wells continue to meet production expectations; and future wells scheduled to come on production meet timing, production and capital expenditure expectations. Birchcliff's forecast of F&D capital expenditures assumes that the 2025 capital program will be carried out as currently contemplated and excludes any potential acquisitions, dispositions and the capitalized portion of cash incentive payments that have not been approved by the Board. The amount and allocation of capital expenditures for exploration and development activities by area and the number and types of wells to be drilled and brought on production is dependent upon results achieved and is subject to review and modification by management on an ongoing basis throughout the year. Actual spending may vary due to a variety of factors, including commodity prices, economic conditions, results of operations and costs of labour, services and materials. Birchcliff's forecasts of adjusted funds flow and free funds flow assume that: the 2025 capital program will be carried out as currently contemplated and the level of capital spending for 2025 set forth herein is met; and the forecasts of production, production commodity mix, expenses and natural gas market exposure and the commodity price and exchange rate assumptions set forth herein are met. Birchcliff's forecast of adjusted funds flow takes into account its financial basis swap contracts outstanding as at May 5, 2025 and excludes cash incentive payments that have not been approved by the Board. Birchcliff's forecast of year end total debt assumes that: (i) the forecasts of adjusted funds flow and free funds flow are achieved, with the level of capital spending for 2025 met and the payment of an annual base dividend of approximately $33 million; (ii) any free funds flow remaining after the payment of dividends, asset retirement obligations and other amounts for administrative assets, financing fees and capital lease obligations is allocated towards debt reduction; and (iii) there are no buybacks of common shares, no equity issuances, no further exercises of stock options and no significant acquisitions or dispositions completed by the Corporation during 2025. The forecast of total debt excludes cash incentive payments that have not been approved by the Board. Birchcliff's forecast of its natural gas market exposure assumes: (i) 175,000 GJ/d being sold on a physical basis at the Dawn price; (ii) 147,500 MMBtu/d being contracted on a financial basis at an average fixed basis differential price between AECO 7A and NYMEX HH of US$1.088/MMBtu; and (iii) 1,200 GJ/d being sold at Alliance on a physical basis at the AECO 5A price plus a premium. Birchcliff's natural gas market exposure takes into account its financial basis swap contracts outstanding as at May 5, 2025. With respect to statements regarding future wells to be drilled or brought on production, such statements assume: the continuing validity of the geological and other technical interpretations performed by Birchcliff's technical staff, which indicate that commercially economic volumes can be recovered from Birchcliff's lands as a result of drilling future wells; and that commodity prices and general economic conditions will warrant proceeding with the drilling of such wells. Birchcliff's actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements as a result of both known and unknown risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to: general economic, market and business conditions which will, among other things, impact the demand for and market prices of Birchcliff's products and Birchcliff's access to capital; volatility of crude oil and natural gas prices; fluctuations in commodity prices and exchange, interest and inflation rates; risks associated with increasing costs, whether due to high inflation rates, supply chain disruptions or other factors; an inability of Birchcliff to generate sufficient cash flow from operations to meet its current and future obligations; an inability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources on terms acceptable to the Corporation; risks associated with Birchcliff's Credit Facilities, including a failure to comply with covenants under the agreement governing the Credit Facilities and the risk that the borrowing base limit may be redetermined; fluctuations in the costs of borrowing; operational risks and liabilities inherent in oil and natural gas operations; the risk that weather events such as wildfires, flooding, droughts or extreme hot or cold temperatures forces the Corporation to shut-in production or otherwise adversely affects the Corporation's operations; the occurrence of unexpected events such as fires, explosions, blow-outs, equipment failures, transportation incidents and other similar events; an inability to access sufficient water or other fluids needed for operations; the risks associated with supply chain disruptions; uncertainty that development activities in connection with Birchcliff's assets will be economic; an inability to access or implement some or all of the technology necessary to operate its assets and achieve expected future results; geological, technical, drilling, construction and processing problems; uncertainty of geological and technical data; horizontal drilling and completions techniques and the failure of drilling results to meet expectations for reserves or production; delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures; the uncertainty of estimates and projections relating to production, revenue, costs and reserves; the accuracy of cost estimates and variances in Birchcliff's actual costs and economic returns from those anticipated; incorrect assessments of the value of acquisitions and exploration and development programs; the risks posed by pandemics, epidemics, geopolitical events and global conflict and their impacts on supply and demand and commodity prices; actions taken by OPEC and other major oil producers and the impact such actions may have on supply and demand and commodity prices; stock market volatility; loss of market demand; changes to the regulatory framework in the locations where the Corporation operates, including changes to tax laws, Crown royalty rates, environmental and climate change laws (including emissions and 'greenwashing'), carbon tax regimes, incentive programs and other regulations that affect the oil and natural gas industry; political uncertainty and uncertainty associated with government policy changes; actions by government authorities; the risk that: (i) the U.S. tariffs that are currently in effect on goods exported from or imported into Canada continue in effect for an extended period of time, the tariffs that have been threatened are implemented, that tariffs that are currently suspended are reactivated, the rate or scope of tariffs are increased or new tariffs are imposed, including on oil and natural gas; (ii) the U.S. and/or Canada imposes any other form of tax, restriction or prohibition on the import or export of products from one country to the other, including on oil and natural gas; and (iii) the tariffs imposed or threatened to be imposed by the U.S. on other countries and retaliatory tariffs imposed or threatened to be imposed by other countries on the U.S. will trigger a broader global trade war, which could have a material adverse effect on the Canadian, U.S. and global economies, and by extension the Canadian oil and natural gas industry and the Corporation, including by decreasing the demand for (and the price of) oil and natural gas, disrupting supply chains, increasing costs, causing volatility in global financial markets and limiting access to financing; an inability of the Corporation to comply with existing and future laws and the cost of compliance with such laws; dependence on facilities, gathering lines and pipelines; uncertainties and risks associated with pipeline restrictions and outages to third-party infrastructure that could cause disruptions to production; the lack of available pipeline capacity and an inability to secure adequate and cost-effective processing and transportation for Birchcliff's products; an inability to satisfy obligations under Birchcliff's firm marketing and transportation arrangements; shortages in equipment and skilled personnel; the absence or loss of key employees; competition for, among other things, capital, acquisitions of reserves, undeveloped lands, equipment and skilled personnel; management of Birchcliff's growth; environmental and climate change risks, claims and liabilities; potential litigation; default under or breach of agreements by counterparties and potential enforceability issues in contracts; claims by Indigenous peoples; the reassessment by taxing or regulatory authorities of the Corporation's prior transactions and filings; unforeseen title defects; third-party claims regarding the Corporation's right to use technology and equipment; uncertainties associated with the outcome of litigation or other proceedings involving Birchcliff; uncertainties associated with counterparty credit risk; risks associated with Birchcliff's risk management and market diversification activities; risks associated with the declaration and payment of future dividends, including the discretion of the Board to declare dividends and change the Corporation's dividend policy and the risk that the amount of dividends may be less than currently forecast; the failure to obtain any required approvals in a timely manner or at all; the failure to complete or realize the anticipated benefits of acquisitions and dispositions and the risk of unforeseen difficulties in integrating acquired assets into Birchcliff's operations; negative public perception of the oil and natural gas industry; the Corporation's reliance on hydraulic fracturing; market competition, including from alternative energy sources; changing demand for petroleum products; the availability of insurance and the risk that certain losses may not be insured; breaches or failure of information systems and security (including risks associated with cyber-attacks); risks associated with artificial intelligence; risks associated with the ownership of the Corporation's securities; the accuracy of the Corporation's accounting estimates and judgments; and the risk that any of the Corporation's material assumptions prove to be materially inaccurate (including the Corporation's commodity price and exchange rate assumptions for 2025). Readers are cautioned that the foregoing lists of factors are not exhaustive. Additional information on these and other risk factors that could affect Birchcliff's results of operations, financial performance or financial results are included in the Corporation's annual information form and annual management's discussion and analysis for the financial year ended December 31, 2024 under the heading 'Risk Factors' and in other reports filed with Canadian securities regulatory authorities. This press release contains information that may constitute future-oriented financial information or financial outlook information (collectively, 'FOFI') about Birchcliff's prospective financial performance, financial position or cash flows, all of which is subject to the same assumptions, risk factors, limitations and qualifications as set forth above. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise or inaccurate and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on FOFI. Birchcliff's actual results, performance and achievements could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, FOFI. Birchcliff has included FOFI in order to provide readers with a more complete perspective on Birchcliff's future operations and management's current expectations relating to Birchcliff's future performance. Readers are cautioned that such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. Management has included the above summary of assumptions and risks related to forward-looking statements provided in this press release in order to provide readers with a more complete perspective on Birchcliff's future operations and management's current expectations relating to Birchcliff's future performance. Readers are cautioned that this information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The forward-looking statements and FOFI contained in this press release are expressly qualified by the foregoing cautionary statements. The forward-looking statements and FOFI contained herein are made as of the date of this press release. Unless required by applicable laws, Birchcliff does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements or FOFI, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. ABOUT BIRCHCLIFF: Birchcliff is an intermediate oil and natural gas company based in Calgary, Alberta with operations focused on the exploration and development of the Montney/Doig Resource Play in Alberta. Birchcliff's common shares are listed for trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol 'BIR'. For further information, please contact: Birchcliff Energy 1000, 600 – 3rd Avenue Alberta T2P 0G5Telephone: (403) 261-6401Email: birinfo@ Chris Carlsen – President and Chief Executive OfficerBruno Geremia – Executive Vice President and Chief Financial OfficerError in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
17-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
BMO's top oil & gas analyst eyes four-way 'Montney Mash' mega merger
Bank of Montreal's veteran oil and gas analyst is making the case for a four-way mega merger in Western Canada's Montney Formation, arguing such a deal would boost scale and broaden investor appeal. One of North America's largest oil and gas reserves, the Montney Formation straddles the British Columbia-Alberta border. It's about the size of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia combined. Recent M&A action in the region includes Whitecap Resources' ( plan to merge with Veren ( in a $15 billion deal, and Ovintiv's ( recently closed $3.3 billion purchase of Montney assets from Paramount Resources ( 'M&A has been a popular investment theme in the oil and gas sector,' Randy Ollenberger, managing director at BMO Capital Markets, wrote in a research note on Friday. 'In Canada, investors have long pondered the need for consolidation in the Montney.' Companies in his hypothetical four-way 'Montney Mash' deal include Advantage Energy ( Birchcliff Energy ( NuVista Energy ( and Kelt Exploration ( 'A merger between the remaining Montney intermediates could translate to potential cost savings through shared tax pools, reduced [selling, general and administrative] costs, better capital efficiencies, and a lower cost of debt,' Ollenberger wrote. 'A larger entity may also be able to access higher-priced natural gas hubs.' He says the hypothetically combined entity currently trades at a steep discount to peers, highlighting a 'valuation disconnect' for companies like Birchcliff and NuVista. Birchcliff shares soared by double-digits last week, after the company raised its 2025 guidance in anticipation of higher prices. 'Bigger producers can leverage their size/scale to secure long-term contracts with newer and more efficient service equipment. We suspect if the four entities merged, they could have similar negotiating power that could help improve capital efficiencies,' Ollenberger wrote. 'We estimate that this could save [about] $145 million of capital spending.' However, he admits that a four-way merger would be 'unusual and complicated,' adding that smaller respective deals between Advantage and Birchcliff, and NuVista and Kelt are more likely. 'While these more traditional mergers could lead to some cost savings, they likely don't create the scale needed to gain incremental U.S./LNG price exposure and higher institutional interest.' Jeff Lagerquist is a senior reporter at Yahoo Finance Canada. Follow him on Twitter @jefflagerquist. Download the Yahoo Finance app, available for Apple and Android. Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
13-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Birchcliff stock jumps as analyst hails 'win-win' scenario for natural gas prices
Birchcliff Energy ( shares gained more than 14 per cent on Thursday. The natural gas-weighted Canadian fossil fuel producer boosted its 2025 guidance in anticipation of higher prices, prompting an analyst upgrade. Toronto-listed Birchcliff shares closed 8.11 per cent higher at $5.73 on Thursday. The stock has been under pressure since cutting its quarterly dividend in half in January amid concerns about the company's debt load, and exposure to volatile commodity prices. On Wednesday, Birchcliff raised its 2025 cash flow guidance and lowered its year-end debt target compared to estimates issued in late January. 'Our 2025 production and capital expenditures guidance is on target and, due to ongoing strengthening of natural gas prices, in particular at NYMEX [Henry Hub] and Dawn, where we have the majority of our natural gas sales exposure, our 2025 annual adjusted funds flow outlook has improved significantly,' president and CEO Chris Carlsen stated in a news release. Birchcliff raised its 2025 estimate for adjusted funds flow to $580 million, compared to $445 million on Jan. 22. Total debt at year-end is now expected to be between $265 million and $305 million, versus a range of $410 million to $450 million previously. CIBC Capital Markets analyst Chris Thompson upgraded his outlook on Birchcliff shares to 'outperform' on Wednesday, while raising his price target to $8 per share from $7. '[The] macro picture for natural gas has improved with storage drawdowns and stronger NYMEX pricing,' Thompson wrote in a note to clients. Natural gas prices have climbed to their highest levels in two years, driven in part by trade tensions between Canada and the United States. Futures contracts (NG=F) rose to $4.12 per million British thermal units on Thursday, a level last seen when Russia's invasion of Ukraine shocked global energy markets. 'While the current AECO basis to NYMEX is very wide, Birchcliff finds itself in somewhat of a win-win situation given its basis hedge position,' Thompson added. 'Should AECO strengthen as the startup timing of LNG Canada comes into focus, the increased value for the company's domestic netback will offset the softer hedging gains. If the basin remains oversupplied and AECO continues to trade at a discount, Birchcliff stands to generate substantial cash flow on its hedge book.' Jeff Lagerquist is a senior reporter at Yahoo Finance Canada. Follow him on Twitter @jefflagerquist. Download the Yahoo Finance app, available for Apple and Android.
Yahoo
19-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Invest $12,000, Create $820.40 in Passive Income From This Dividend Stock
Written by Amy Legate-Wolfe at The Motley Fool Canada Are you looking to make some cash? Investing $12,000 in Birchcliff Energy (TSX:BIR) could be a great way to generate passive income while also gaining exposure to the energy sector. As a mid-cap natural gas producer operating in the Montney formation, Birchcliff has built a strong reputation for its efficient operations and disciplined capital allocation. While energy stocks can be cyclical, Birchcliff's consistent dividend payments and long-term growth strategy make it an appealing option for income-seeking investors. The dividend stock currently offers an annual dividend of $0.40 per share, translating to a yield of around 6.99% at recent prices. Quarterly dividend payments provide a steady cash flow to investors looking for passive income. So, with the most recent numbers, here is how much a $12,000 investment could create in passive income. COMPANY RECENT PRICE NUMBER OF SHARES DIVIDEND TOTAL PAYOUT FREQUENCY TOTAL INVESTMENT BIR $5.85 2,051 $0.40 $820.40 quarterly $12,000 But is that dividend cash-supported? Birchcliff's recent financial performance has been a mixed bag. In the third quarter of 2024, the dividend stock reported revenue of $144.1 million, which represented a 15% decline compared to the same period in 2023. Additionally, the dividend stock posted a net loss per share of $0.04 for the quarter, highlighting some of the challenges faced in the energy sector. Declining natural gas prices and lower demand have weighed on earnings, but Birchcliff remains committed to maintaining financial discipline and protecting shareholder returns. One of the key factors investors need to consider when looking at Birchcliff is its dividend history. The dividend stock has made adjustments to its dividend payouts in response to market conditions, reducing its dividend from $0.20 per share in late 2023 to $0.10 per share in early 2024. While dividend cuts can be concerning, they also reflect the company's prudent approach to capital management. Rather than taking on excess debt or issuing new shares, Birchcliff aims to align its payouts with its cash flow and profitability. Looking ahead, Birchcliff has a clear strategy for navigating the challenges of the energy market. The dividend stock continues to focus on improving operational efficiency in its Montney assets while keeping costs under control. With natural gas prices expected to stabilize over the long run, Birchcliff's strong asset base and disciplined spending should help it generate sustainable cash flow. If commodity prices recover, the dividend stock could even increase its dividend in the coming years. Of course, like any stock, Birchcliff comes with risks. The biggest concern for energy investors is volatility in commodity prices. Natural gas prices are influenced by factors such as weather patterns, global supply and demand, and geopolitical events. Any downturn in pricing could impact Birchcliff's revenue and profitability, potentially leading to further dividend adjustments. Plus, the company carries a total debt of approximately $492.78 million. This, while manageable, means it must balance debt repayment with shareholder returns. For investors seeking passive income, Birchcliff presents an opportunity to earn reliable cash flow while gaining exposure to an essential industry. By investing $12,000, you could generate over $800 per year in dividend income, which could be reinvested to compound returns or withdrawn to support expenses. As long as the company continues its disciplined approach to managing costs and optimizing production, its dividend should remain a key attraction for income-focused investors. While energy stocks aren't without risk, Birchcliff's combination of a high dividend yield, operational strength, and long-term potential makes it a strong candidate for those looking to build passive income. By staying informed on earnings reports, dividend updates, and industry trends, investors can position themselves to maximize the benefits of this investment. The post Invest $12,000, Create $820.40 in Passive Income From This Dividend Stock appeared first on The Motley Fool Canada. Before you buy stock in Birchcliff Energy Ltd., consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor Canada analyst team just identified what they believe are the Top Stocks for 2025 and Beyond for investors to buy now… and Birchcliff Energy Ltd. wasn't one of them. The Top Stocks that made the cut could potentially produce monster returns in the coming years. 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See the Top Stocks * Returns as of 1/22/25 More reading 10 Stocks Every Canadian Should Own in 2024 [PREMIUM PICKS] It's Time to Buy: 1 Canadian Stock That Hasn't Been This Cheap in Years Where to Invest Your $7,000 TFSA Contribution 3 No-Brainer TSX Stocks to Buy With $300 5 Years From Now, You'll Probably Wish You Grabbed These Stocks Subscribe to Motley Fool Canada on YouTube Fool contributor Amy Legate-Wolfe has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. 2025
