Continental Resources (CLR) Update - April 4

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Continental Resources, Inc. (NYSE: CLR) announced a revised 2020 capital budget of $1.2 billion, representing a 55% decrease in capital spend from the Company's original budget of $2.65 billion. The Company expects to be cash flow neutral under $30 per barrel WTI.

The Company will be reducing its average rig count from 9 to approximately 3 in the Bakken and 10.5 to approximately 4 in Oklahoma. The Company has taken action to implement cost saving initiatives across its operations as part of its ongoing commitment to remain free cash flow positive.

"With a solid balance sheet, peer-leading operating costs and minimal long-term service or supply contracts, Continental will remain flexible and nimble as we optimize development and monitor market conditions," said Bill Berry, Chief Executive Officer. "Continental has a proven track record of adjusting activity and delivering cost savings to maximize cash flow generation in lower price environments."

Harold Hamm, Executive Chairman, said, "This budget adjustment has been precipitated by the collapse of crude oil prices due to the market manipulation of Saudi Arabia and Russia. Illegal dumping of crude oil by these countries began earlier this month at a time of low demand during this unprecedented pandemic of Coronavirus. The U.S. Department of Commerce has been asked by U.S. Senator James Inhofe, Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, to initiate an immediate investigation and to take action under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 to protect national security and counter this illegal activity. We believe this is a short demand cycle which could see some near-term correction when this illegal dumping practice is halted."

With the revised budget, the Company anticipates 2020 production to be down less than 5% year-over-year. The Company plans to provide additional details surrounding its 2020 guidance updates as part of its first quarter 2020 earnings release, based on its ongoing evaluation of evolving business and market conditions.
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For 2019: CLR reported $775.6 million of Net Income ($2.10/share) and $3,175 million of Operating Cash Flow ($8.61/share)
For 2020: CLR should report a Net Loss of $300 to $500 million and $1,400 to $1,600 million of Operating Cash Flow ($3.70 to $4.30 per share) < Assuming WTI averages $30 to $35 per bbl for the year.