UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C.  20549

 


 

FORM 10-K/A

 


 

x                              ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For The Fiscal Year Ended October 31, 2008

 

or

 

o                                 TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d) OF SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the transition period from                          to                         

 

Commission File Number 0-8877

 

CREDO PETROLEUM CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Colorado

 

84-0772991

(State or other jurisdiction

 

(I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)

of incorporation or organization)

 

 

 

1801 Broadway, Suite 900, Denver, Colorado 80202-3837

(Address of principal executive offices and zip code)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:  (303) 297-2200

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: None

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

 

 

Common Stock, $.10 Par Value

 

 

(Title of class and shares outstanding)

 

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act:  o  Yes  x  No

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act:  o  Yes  x No

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  x  Yes  o  No

 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K/A or any amendment to this Form 10-K/A.  x

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer.  (See definition of “accelerated filer” and “large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Act.)

 

Large accelerated filer  o  Accelerated filer  x  Non-accelerated filer  o

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act.  o  Yes  x  No

 

The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates as of April 30, 2008, the end of the registrant’s most recently completed second quarter was $78,774,000.

 

As of January 7, 2009, the registrant had 10,437,000 shares of common stock outstanding.

 

 

 



 

EXPLANATORY NOTE

 

Our February 17, 2009 CREDO Petroleum Corporation (the “Company”) received a letter from the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) regarding the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed by the Company with the SEC on January 14, 2009 (the “Original Filing”) for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2008.  The Company has responded to the SEC’s comments to our Original Filing in this Amendment #1.

 

In connection with the review of the Original Filing, the SEC asked the Company to:

 

 

(i)

complete omissions related to the production and reserves of certain Calliope wells,

 

 

 

 

(ii)

correct the definition of “EBITDA”,

 

 

 

 

(iii)

revise Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk related to the Company’s hedged production,

 

 

 

 

(iv)

revise management’s disclosures related to Controls and Procedures,

 

 

 

 

(v)

revise management’s Section 302 certifications.

 

The amendment has no impact on the Company’s consolidated balance sheet, consolidated statements of operations, consolidated statements of changes in shareholders’ equity and consolidated statements of cash flows for the year ended October 31, 2008.  Accordingly, we have not refiled the financial statements for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2008.

 



 

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

 

Pursuant to instruction G (3) to Form 10-K/A, Items 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14 are omitted because the company will file a definitive proxy statement (the “Proxy Statement”) pursuant to Regulation 14A under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 not later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year.  The information required by such items will be included in the Proxy Statement to be so filed for the company’s annual meeting of shareholders to be held on or about March 19, 2009 and is hereby incorporated by reference.

 

NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

 

In this Annual Report on Form 10-K/A, the company uses the term “EBITDA (Earning Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization)” which is considered a non-GAAP financial measure as defined in SEC Regulation S-K Item 10 and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with GAAP.  See Item 7 “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” for a definition of this measure as used in this Annual Report on Form 10-K/A.

 

Estimated Future Net Revenues Discounted at 10% is not a GAAP measure of operating performance.  This pre-tax, non-GAAP measure is used by the company in connection with estimating funds expected to be available in the future for drilling and other operating activities.  See Item 2 PROPERTIES, Significant Properties, Estimated Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, and Future Net Revenues for a reconciliation of Estimated Future Net Revenues Discounted at 10% to the Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows as shown in Note 9 to the company’s Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

This Annual Report on Form 10-K/A includes certain statements that may be deemed to be “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.  All statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K/A, other than statements of historical facts, address matters that the company reasonably expects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future.  Forward-looking statements may include, among other things, statements relating to:

 

·                  the company’s future financial position, including working capital and anticipated cash flow;

·                  amounts and nature of future capital expenditures;

·                  projections of operating costs and other expenses;

·                  wells to be drilled or reworked including new drilling expectations;

·                  expectations regarding oil and natural gas prices and demand;

·                  existing fields, wells and prospects;

·                  diversification of exploration, capital exposure, risk and reserve potential of drilling activities;

·                  estimates of proved oil and natural gas reserves;

·                  expectations and projections regarding joint ventures;

·                  reserve potential;

·                  development and drilling potential;

·                  expansion and other development trends in the oil and natural gas industry;

·                  the company’s business strategy;

·                  production and production potential of oil and natural gas;

·                  matters related to the Calliope Gas Recovery System, including projections for future use of Calliope and the success of Calliope;

·                  effects of federal, state and local regulation;

·                  adequacy of insurance coverage;

·                  employee relations;

·                  effectiveness of the company’s hedging transactions;

·                  investment strategy and risk; and

·                  expansion and growth of the company’s business and operations.

 

2



 

Although the company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct.  Disclosure of important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the company’s expectations, or cautionary statements, are included under “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K/A, including, without limitation, in conjunction with the forward-looking statements.  The following factors, among others that could cause actual results to differ materially from the company’s expectations, include:

 

·                  unexpected changes in business or economic conditions;

·                  significant changes in natural gas and oil prices;

·                  timing and amount of production;

·                  unanticipated down-hole mechanical problems in wells or problems related to producing reservoirs or infrastructure;

·                  changes in overhead costs;

·                  material events resulting in changes in estimates; and

·                  competitive factors.

 

All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made.  All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to the company, or persons acting on the company’s behalf, are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements.  Except as required by law, the company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which it is made or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances.

 

3



 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

ITEM

 

 

 

PAGE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PART I

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item 1.

 

Business

 

5

 

 

General

 

5

 

 

Business Activities

 

5

 

 

Markets and Customers

 

6

 

 

Competition and Regulation

 

7

Item 1A.

 

Risk Factors

 

7

Item 1B.

 

Unresolved Staff Comments

 

12

Item 2.

 

Properties

 

12

 

 

General

 

12

 

 

Significant Properties, Estimated Proved Oil and Gas Reserves,and Future Net Revenues

 

13

 

 

Production, Average Sales Prices and Average Production Costs

 

14

 

 

Productive Wells and Developed Acreage

 

14

 

 

Undeveloped Acreage

 

14

 

 

Drilling

 

15

 

 

Insurance

 

15

 

 

Facilities and Employees

 

15

 

 

Company Website

 

16

Item 3.

 

Legal Proceedings

 

16

Item 4.

 

Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

 

16

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PART II

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item 5.

 

Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

16

Item 6.

 

Selected Financial Data

 

18

Item 7.

 

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

19

Item 7A.

 

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

 

28

Item 9A.

 

Controls and Procedures

 

29

Signatures

 

 

 

30

 

4



 

PART I

 

ITEM 1.                  BUSINESS

 

General

 

CREDO Petroleum Corporation (“CREDO”) was incorporated in Colorado in 1978.  CREDO and its wholly owned subsidiaries, SECO Energy Corporation and United Oil Corporation (“SECO”, “United” and collectively “the company”), are Denver, Colorado based independent oil and gas companies which engage primarily in oil and gas exploration, development and production activities in the Mid-Continent region of the United States.  The company has operating activities in ten states and has thirteen full-time employees.  CREDO is an active operator in Kansas, Wyoming, Colorado, Louisiana and Texas.  United is an active operator doing business primarily in Oklahoma, and SECO primarily owns royalty interests in the Rocky Mountain region.  References to years as used in this report indicate fiscal years ended October 31.

 

Business Activities

 

During 2008, the company continued implementation of new exploration projects in central Kansas, South Texas, and North Dakota, which projects are designed to sustain the company’s growth by expanding and diversifying its business, both technically and geographically.  These projects will also diversify the capital exposure, risk and reserve potential of the company’s drilling activities.

 

The company’s goal is to create steady growth by adding production and long-lived reserves at reasonable costs and risks.  The strategy to achieve this goal involves drilling and increasing the number of Calliope installations.  Third party industry participants are involved in most of the company’s operating activities.

 

Historically, the company’s primary drilling focus has been in the Anadarko Basin of Oklahoma where the company owns interests in approximately 70,000 gross acres.  The company will continue generating prospects and drilling on this acreage concentrating on medium depth properties generally ranging from 7,000 to 11,000 feet.  Refer to “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations-Oil and Gas Activities-Drilling Activities-Northern Anadarko Basin” for additional information.

 

In recent years, the company has significantly expanded both the volume and breadth of its exploration program with new projects in South Texas and north-central Kansas.  Compared to drilling in Oklahoma, the South Texas project involves higher costs and greater risks but significantly higher per well reserve potential.  The South Texas project is 3-D seismic driven with well depths ranging from 10,000 to 17,000 feet.  In South Texas, the initial test well on the Gemini Prospect resulted in a dry hole.  The 17,000-foot well confirmed the seismic interpretation and found porous sand.  However, the sand was water wet and the well was plugged and abandoned.  CREDO received approximately $1,300,000 of cash for the multiple prospect package and retained an 11.25% “carried interest” in the test well.

 

The prospect package consists of two additional Deep Wilcox prospects located to the north of Gemini Prospect.  These two prospects are structurally different and unique compared to the Gemini Prospect.  Those prospects are being further evaluated, and if drilled, CREDO will have the same 11.25% carried interest in the next well as it did in the Gemini Prospect test well.

 

The north-central Kansas project is geared to oil exploration and has excellent potential to add significant reserves at moderate costs and risks.  This project is also 3-D seismic driven with well depths of approximately 4,000 feet.  Exploration teams for both projects specialize in their respective geographic areas and have been highly successful finding new reserves using 3-D seismic. The company’s Kansas acreage is located in prolific oil producing areas where 3-D seismic has proven effective in identifying undrilled structures.  Drilling targets the Lansing-Kansas City and Arbuckle formations at about 4,000 feet, making the cost of drilling very inexpensive in relation to potential reserve value.  At October 31, 2008, 29 wells have been drilled on company acreage, of which 49% have been successful.

 

5



 

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008, the company acquired approximately 4,100 net acres on the Fort Berthold Reservation in North Dakota.  The acreage is in the Bakken Shale Resource Play.  The company believes that these projects have the potential to generate significant future production and reserve growth.  Refer to “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Oil and Gas Activities—Drilling Activities-Drilling Program Expansion and Diversification, South Texas, and North-Central Kansas” for additional information.

 

On November 6, 2008 the company purchased all of the patents underlying the Calliope gas recovery technology, all of the related third party interests in future installations of the technology and patents covering a new fluid lift technology for shallow wells known as Tractor Seal for $4,500,000.

 

The company owns the patents covering the Calliope Gas Recovery System (“Calliope”) and has been instrumental in developing, testing, refining, and patenting the Calliope Gas Recovery System.  Calliope efficiently lifts fluids from wellbores using pressure differentials, thus allowing gas previously trapped by fluid build-up in the wellbore to flow to the surface.  Calliope is distinguished from all other fluid lift technologies because it does not rely on bottom-hole pressure and has only one down-hole moving part.  Calliope is primarily applicable to mature natural gas wells in low pressure, natural gas expansion reservoirs at depths below 8,000 feet.  External sources of capital have not been required for the development, refinement or installation of Calliope.    The company has proven Calliope’s economic viability and flexibility over a wide range of applications.

 

The company currently has Calliope installed on wells located in Oklahoma, Texas and Louisiana which include both sandstones and limestones in Chester, Cotton Valley, Edwards, Hart, Hunton, Morrow, Nodosaria, Red Fork and Springer reservoirs.  Joint venture discussions were accelerated in fiscal year 2008 with two new agreements reached and others under negotiation at October 31, 2008. Refer to “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations-Oil and Gas Activities-Calliope Gas Recovery Technology” for additional information.

 

The company acts as “operator” of approximately 130 wells pursuant to standard industry operating agreements.  The company owns working interests in 314 producing wells and overriding royalty interests in 1,167 wells.

 

Markets and Customers

 

Marketing of the company’s oil and gas production is influenced by many factors which are beyond the company’s control, and the exact effect of which cannot be accurately predicted. These factors include changes in supply and demand, market prices, regulation, and actions of major foreign producers.  Oil price fluctuations can be extremely volatile as was demonstrated when, during 2008, the posted price for West Texas intermediate in July reached more than $140.00 per barrel, then fell below $35.00 in December.

 

Natural gas price decontrol, the advent of an active spot market for natural gas, changes in supply and demand for natural gas, and weather patterns cause natural gas prices to be subject to significant fluctuations.  The company presently sells virtually all of its natural gas under one to five year contracts with major pipeline companies.  The sales price is typically based on monthly index prices for the applicable pipeline.  Title to the natural gas normally passes to the pipeline at meters located near the wells.  The index prices are reduced by certain pipeline charges.

 

Most of the company’s natural gas production is located in northwestern Oklahoma.  There has been significant consolidation among natural gas pipelines in this area, thereby reducing the number of available purchasers.  In many instances, there may be only one viable pipeline option, which enables the pipeline to charge higher rates.  The first leg of the Rocky Mountain Express pipeline was completed in early 2008 that transports gas from the Rocky Mountain region to northeast Missouri.  The eastern extension of the pipeline connects with other pipelines that transport natural gas to the eastern United States.  Until the eastern extension, extending to Ohio, is completed natural gas is being delivered into the mid-continent region which is creating excess supply and downward pricing pressure on mid-continent gas sales.

 

6



 

Over the past few years there has been increasing concern that a supply/demand imbalance has developed in domestic natural gas based on increasing demand and lower deliverability.  This, together with rising oil prices, political unrest and uncertainty in some major producing regions, supply vulnerability to natural disasters, such as hurricanes, and active speculation in the natural gas futures market caused natural gas prices to become increasingly volatile.  The economic downturn that commenced in the 2nd half of 2008 appears to have resulted in demand reductions at a time when supply has been increasing.  The supply/demand imbalance pendulum has recently swung in the opposite direction, as evidenced by volatile price reductions experienced in the 2nd half of 2008.  The Panhandle Eastern Pipeline natural gas index, the basis for most of the company’s gas sales, has fallen from $11.07 per Mcf in July 2008 to $2.81 for November, 2008.  The company expects natural gas prices to return to more historical levels but cannot reasonably predict the extent or timing of natural gas price fluctuations.

 

As discussed elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K/A, the company periodically hedges the price of a portion of its estimated natural gas production in the form of forward short positions and collars on the NYMEX futures market.

 

Oil production is sold to crude oil purchasing companies at competitive spot field prices. Crude oil and condensate production are readily marketable, and the company is generally not dependent on a single purchaser.  Crude oil prices are subject to world-wide supply and demand, and are primarily dependent upon available supplies which can vary significantly depending on production and pricing policies of OPEC and other major producing countries and on significant events in major producing regions.  Until recently, political unrest and market uncertainty in the Middle East, Africa, South America and former Soviet Union, OPEC’s renewed cooperation in managing the price of its produced oil, and increased demand from countries with developing economies, such as China and India, have resulted in higher world-wide oil prices during the past several years.  Recently the economic crisis that commenced in the 2nd half of 2008 has resulted in rapid global reductions in demand for oil.  The effects of oversupply are evidenced by volatile price reductions experienced in the 2nd half of 2008.  World wide prices for oil have declined approximately 70% since reaching peak levels in July 2008.

 

Information concerning the company’s major customers is included in Note (10) to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

Competition and Regulation

 

The oil and gas industry is highly competitive.  As a small independent, the company must compete against companies with substantially larger financial, human and other resources in all aspects of its business.

 

Oil and gas drilling and production operations are regulated by various federal, state and local agencies.  These agencies issue binding rules and regulations which carry penalties, often substantial, for failure to comply.  The company anticipates its aggregate burden of federal, state and local regulation will continue to increase particularly in the area of rapidly changing environmental laws and regulations.  The company also believes that its present operations substantially comply with applicable regulations.  To date, such regulations have not had a material effect on the company’s operations, or the costs thereof.  There are no known environmental or other regulatory matters related to the company’s operations which are reasonably expected to result in material liability to the company.  The company believes that capital expenditures related to environmental control facilities or other regulatory matters will not be material in 2009.  The company cannot predict what subsequent legislation or regulations may be enacted or what effect they might have on the company’s business.

 

ITEM 1A.             RISK FACTORS

 

In evaluating the company, careful consideration should be given to the following risk factors, in addition to the other information included or incorporated by reference in this Annual Report on Form 10-K/A.  Each of these risk factors could adversely affect the company’s business, operating results and financial condition, as well as adversely affect the value of an investment in the company’s common stock.

 

7



 

Volatility of oil and natural gas prices could adversely affect the company’s profitability and financial condition.

 

The company’s performance in terms of revenues, operating results, profitability, future rate of growth and the carrying value of its oil and natural gas properties is significantly impacted by prevailing market prices for oil and natural gas.  Any substantial or extended decline in the price of oil or natural gas could have a material adverse effect on the company.  It could reduce the company’s operating cash flow as well as the value and, to a lesser degree, the quantity of its oil and natural gas reserves.  See the table of oil and gas sales volumes and prices on page 13 for further information.

 

Historically, the markets for oil and natural gas have been volatile, and they are likely to continue to be volatile.  Relatively minor changes in supply or demand can have a significant effect on oil and natural gas prices.  Some of the factors affecting oil and natural gas prices which are beyond the company’s control include:

 

·                  worldwide and domestic supplies of oil and natural gas;

·                  worldwide and domestic demand for oil and natural gas;

·                  the ability of the members of OPEC to agree to and maintain oil price and production controls;

·                  political instability or armed conflict in oil or natural gas producing regions;

·                  worldwide and domestic economic conditions;

·                  the availability of transportation facilities;

·                  weather patterns; and

·                  actions of governmental authorities.

 

Competition for opportunities to replace and increase production and reserves is intense and could adversely affect the company.

 

Properties produce at a declining rate over time.  In order to maintain current production rates the company must add new oil and natural gas reserves to replace those being depleted by production.  Competition within the oil and natural gas industry is intense and many of the company’s competitors have financial and other resources substantially greater than those available to the company.  This could place the company at a disadvantage with respect to accessing opportunities to maintain, or increase, its oil and natural gas reserve base.

 

In the event that the company does not have adequate cash flow to fund operations, it may be required to use debt or equity financing.

 

The company makes, and will continue to make, significant expenditures to find, acquire, develop and produce oil and natural gas reserves.  In the event of sustained low oil and gas prices, or if operating difficulties are encountered that result in cash flow from operations being less than expected, the company may have to reduce capital expenditures unless additional funds are raised through debt or equity financing.  Debt or equity financing or cash generated by operations may not be available to the company in sufficient amounts or on acceptable terms to meet these requirements.

 

Future cash flows and the availability of financing will be subject to a number of variables, such as:

 

·                  the company’s success in locating and producing new reserves;

·                  the level of production from existing wells; and

·                  prices of oil and natural gas;

 

Issuing equity securities to satisfy the company’s financing requirements could cause substantial dilution to existing stockholders.  Debt financing could also make the company more vulnerable to competitive pressures and economic downturns.

 

8



 

Reserve quantities and values are subject to many variables and estimates and actual results may vary.

 

This Annual Report on Form 10-K/A contains estimates of the company’s proved oil and natural gas reserves and the estimated future net revenues from those reserves.  Any significant negative variance in these estimates could have a material adverse effect on the company’s future performance.

 

Reserve estimates are based on various assumptions, including assumptions required by the SEC relating to oil and natural gas prices, drilling and operating expenses, capital expenditures, taxes and availability of funds.  The process of estimating reserves is complex.  This process requires significant decisions and assumptions in the evaluation of available geological, geophysical, engineering and economic data.

 

Reserve estimates are dependent on many variables, and therefore, as more information becomes available, it is reasonable to expect that there will be changes to the estimates.  Actual future production, oil and natural gas prices, revenues, taxes, development expenditures, operating expenses and quantities of recoverable oil and natural gas reserves will most likely vary from those estimated.  Any significant variance could materially affect the estimated quantities and present value of reserves disclosed by the company.  In addition, estimates of proved reserves will be adjusted in the future to reflect production history, results of exploration and development, prevailing oil and natural gas prices and other factors, many of which are beyond the company’s control.

 

As of October 31, 2008, approximately 33% of the company’s estimated proved reserves are classified as proved undeveloped.  Estimation of proved undeveloped reserves and proved developed non-producing reserves is generally based on volumetric calculations rather than the performance data used to estimate reserves for producing properties.  Recovery of proved undeveloped reserves generally requires significant capital expenditures and successful drilling operations.  Revenues from proved developed non-producing and proved undeveloped reserves will not be realized until some time in the future.  The reserve estimate includes an estimate of the capital expenditures required to develop these reserves as well as the timing of such expenditures.  Although the company has prepared estimates of its proved undeveloped reserves and the associated development costs in accordance with industry standards, they are based on estimates, and actual results may vary.

 

You should not interpret the present value of estimated reserves, or PV-10, as the current market value of reserves attributable to the company’s properties.  The 10% discount factor, which we are required to use to calculate PV-10 for reporting purposes, is not necessarily the most appropriate discount factor given actual interest rates and risks to which the company’s business or the oil and natural gas industry in general are subject.  The company has based the PV-10 on prices and costs as of the date of the reserve estimate, in accordance with applicable regulations.  Actual future prices and costs may be materially higher or lower.  In addition to the price volatility factors discussed above, factors that will affect actual future net cash flows, include:

 

·                  the amount and timing of actual production;

·                  curtailments or increases in consumption by oil and natural gas purchasers; and

·                  changes in governmental regulations or taxation.

 

As a result, the company’s actual future net cash flows could be materially different from the estimates included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K/A.

 

Full cost pool ceiling subject to reserve values.

 

The company uses the full cost method of accounting for costs related to its oil and natural gas properties.  Capitalized costs included in the full cost pool are depleted on an aggregate basis using the units-of-production method.  A change in proved reserves without a corresponding change in capitalized costs will cause the depletion rate to increase or decrease.

 

Both the volume of proved reserves and any estimated future expenditures used for the depletion calculation are based on estimates such as those described under “Oil and Gas Reserves”.

 

9



 

The capitalized costs in the full cost pool are subject to a quarterly ceiling test that limits such pooled costs to the aggregate of the present value of future net revenues attributable to proved oil and natural gas reserves discounted at 10 percent plus the lower of cost or market value of unproved properties less any associated tax effects.  If such capitalized costs exceed the ceiling, the company will record a write-down to the extent of such excess as a non-cash charge to earnings, unless the company considers price increases subsequent to the balance sheet date which may reduce or eliminate a write-down.  Any such write-down will reduce earnings in the period of occurrence and result in lower depreciation and depletion in future periods.  A write-down may not be reversed in future periods, even though higher oil and natural gas prices may subsequently increase the ceiling.

 

The company’s reserve quantities and values are concentrated in a relative few properties and fields.

 

The company’s reserves, and reserve values, are concentrated in 68 properties which represent 24% of the company’s total properties but a disproportionate 80% of the discounted value (at 10%) of the company’s reserves.  Individual wells on which Calliope is installed comprise 16% of these significant properties and 14% of the discounted reserve value of such properties.  Reserves added during 2008 comprise 25% of these significant properties and 26% of the discounted reserve value of such properties.

 

Estimates of reserve quantities and values for these properties must be viewed as being subject to significant change as more data about the properties becomes available.  Such properties include wells with limited production histories and properties with proved undeveloped or proved non-producing reserves.  In addition, Calliope is generally installed on mature wells.  As such, they contain older down-hole equipment that is more subject to failure than new equipment.  The failure of such equipment, particularly casing, can result in complete loss of a well.

 

Competition for materials and services is intense and could adversely affect the company.

 

Major oil companies, independent producers, and institutional and individual investors are actively seeking oil and gas properties throughout the world, along with the equipment, labor and materials required to develop and operate properties.  Shortages of equipment, labor or materials may result in increased costs or the inability to obtain such resources as needed.  Many of the company’s competitors have financial and technological resources which exceed those available to the company.

 

During 2008, the company experienced delays in securing drilling rigs and delivery of production equipment, primarily compressors and coil tubing.  These delays extended the time it took the company to conduct its field operations.  As a result, the company could be at risk for price increases related to these types of services and equipment.

 

Natural gas derivatives involve credit risk and may limit future revenues from price increases.

 

To manage the company’s exposure to price risks associated with the sale of natural gas, the company periodically enters into derivative transactions for a portion of its estimated natural gas production.  These transactions may limit the company’s potential gains if natural gas prices were to rise substantially over the price established by the derivatives.  In addition, such transactions may expose the company to the risk of financial loss in certain circumstances, including instances in which:

 

·                  the company’s production is less than the amount hedged;

·                  the contractual counterparties fail to perform under the contracts; or

·                  a sudden, unexpected event, materially impacts natural gas prices.

 

The terms of the company’s derivative agreements may also require that it furnish cash collateral, letters of credit or other forms of performance assurance in the event that mark-to-market calculations result in settlement obligations by the company to the counterparties, which would encumber the company’s liquidity and capital resources.

 

The company’s derivatives are generally based on NYMEX prices but the company’s hedged production is primarily sold on a regional pipeline index price.  The regional price is normally 15% to

 

10



 

17% below NYMEX prices.  However, regional weather conditions and other economic factors, such as the current delay in completion of the eastern extension of the Rocky Mountain Express gas pipeline, resulting in excess natural gas supplies to the mid-continent region, can periodically result in substantially higher basis differentials.  At October 31, 2008, the Oklahoma basis differential was 56% of the NYMEX price.

 

The company has elected not to designate its commodity derivatives as cash flow hedges for accounting purposes.  Accordingly, such contracts are recorded at fair value on its Balance Sheet and changes in fair value are recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Operations as they occur.

 

The marketability of the company’s natural gas production is dependent upon infrastructure, such as gathering systems, pipelines and processing facilities, that the company does not own or control.

 

The marketability of the company’s natural gas production depends in part upon the availability, proximity and capacity of natural gas gathering systems, pipelines and processing facilities necessary to move the company’s natural gas production to market.  The company does not own this infrastructure and is dependent on other companies to provide it.

 

Oil and natural gas operations are inherently risky.

 

The oil and natural gas business involves a variety of risks, including the risks of operating hazards such as fires, explosions, cratering, blow-outs, and encountering formations with abnormal pressures.  The occurrence of any of these risks could result in losses.  The company maintains insurance against some, but not all, of these risks.  The occurrence of a significant event that is not fully insured could have a material adverse effect on the company’s financial position and results of operations.

 

All of the company’s oil and natural gas properties are located on-shore in the continental United States.  The company’s future drilling activities may not be successful, and its overall drilling success rate may change.  Unsuccessful drilling activities could have a material adverse effect on the company’s results of operations and financial condition.  Also, the company may not be able to obtain the right to drill in areas where it believes there is significant potential for the company.

 

The company has recently expanded the volume and breadth of its exploration program with new drilling projects in South Texas.  Compared to the company’s Oklahoma drilling, the South Texas project involves higher costs and greater risks.

 

The company’s operations are subject to a variety of regulatory constraints.

 

The production and sale of oil and natural gas are subject to a variety of federal, state and local government regulations.  These include:

 

·                  the prevention of waste;

·                  the discharge of materials into the environment;

·                  the conservation of oil and natural gas;

·                  pollution;

·                  permits for drilling operations;

·                  drilling bonds;

·                  reports concerning operations;

·                  the spacing of wells; and

·                  the unitization and pooling of properties.

 

Because current regulations covering the company’s operations are subject to change at any time, and despite its belief that it is in substantial compliance with applicable environmental and other government laws and regulations, the company could incur significant costs for future compliance.

 

11



 

Increases in taxes on energy sources may adversely affect the company’s operations.

 

Federal, state and local governments which have jurisdiction in areas where the company operates impose taxes on the oil and natural gas products sold.  Historically, there has been on-going consideration by federal, state and local officials concerning a variety of energy tax proposals.  Such matters are beyond the company’s ability to accurately predict or control.

 

The company is highly dependent on the services of one of its officers.

 

The company is highly dependent on the services of James T. Huffman, its Chief Executive Officer.  The loss of Mr. Huffman could have a material adverse effect on the company.

 

ITEM 1B.             UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

 

The company does not have any unresolved comments from the Commission.

 

ITEM 2.                PROPERTIES

 

General

 

The company’s Oklahoma drilling activities are primarily located along the Northern Anadarko Basin of Oklahoma including the Oklahoma Panhandle where the company owns interests in approximately 70,000 gross developed and undeveloped acres.  Specifically, drilling expenditures have been focused on prospects located in Harper, Ellis and Beaver Counties, Oklahoma.  Wells target the Morrow and Chester formations between 7,000 and 11,000 feet.

 

The company’s Kansas drilling activities provide diversification to the company’s drilling program geographically and scientifically through the use of 3-D seismic to identify shallow oil prospects. The acreage is located in prolific oil producing areas where 3-D seismic has proven effective in identifying satellite structures near mature producing fields.  Generally higher oil prices have justified using 3-D seismic technology to locate undrilled structures that are very difficult to find with old technology.  Drilling targets the Lansing-Kansas City and Arbuckle formations at about 4,000 feet and, compared to the company’s Northern Anadarko Basin and South Texas projects, is relatively low cost, low risk, and exclusively targets oil reserves in an effort to bring better product balance to the company’s reserve base.  The company has assembled about 139,000 gross (65,000 net) acres and is continuing to seek opportunities to increase its exposure to the play.  The company owns working interests in the existing prospects ranging from 12.5% to 85%.

 

The company owns the exclusive right to the Calliope Gas Recovery System.  The company has proven that Calliope will add 0.5 to 2.0 Bcf of proved gas reserves to many dead and uneconomic wells.  The company believes there are presently many (more than 1,000) wells that meet its general criteria for Calliope candidate wells and thousands more that will meet its general Calliope criteria in the future.

 

On November 6, 2008 the company purchased all of the patents underlying the Calliope gas recovery technology, all of the related third party interests in future installations of the technology and patents covering a new fluid lift technology for shall wells known as Tractor Seal for $4,500,000.

 

Calliope operations were historically focused in Oklahoma where the company has a significant field operations infrastructure.  Most Calliope wells are located in the Northern Anadarko Basin of Oklahoma.  The company’s current compilation of Calliope’s track record shows Calliope installations on 25 wells located in Oklahoma, Texas and Louisiana.  The Calliope wells include both sandstone and carbonate reservoirs including the Chester, Cotton Valley, Edwards, Hart, Hunton, Morrow, Nodosaria, Redfork and Springer formations. The Calliope wells range in depth from 6,400 to 18,400 feet.  At the time Calliope was installed, 14 of the wells were dead, nine were uneconomic and two were marginal.  There are 14 non-experimental Calliope wells.  As a group, those wells were producing a total of 88 thousand cubic feet of gas per day at the time Calliope was installed.  Since Calliope was installed, those wells have produced 4.4 billion cubic feet of gas and they now have estimated ultimate (8/8ths) Calliope reserves totaling 11.2 billion cubic feet of gas.  Eleven of the Calliope wells are included in the company’s Significant Properties.

 

12



 

For additional information regarding current year activities, including oil and gas production, refer to “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations”.

 

Significant Properties, Estimated Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, and Future Net Revenues

 

The company’s reserves, and reserve values, are concentrated in 68 properties (“Significant Properties”).  Some of the Significant Properties are individual wells and others are multi-well properties.  At year-end, Significant Properties represent 24% of the company’s total properties but a disproportionate 80% of the discounted value (at 10%) of the company’s reserves.  Individual Calliope wells comprise 16% of the Significant Properties and represent 14% of the discounted reserve value of such properties.  Reserves added in 2008 comprise 25% of the Significant Properties and represent 26% of the discounted value of such properties.

 

Estimates of reserve quantities and values for certain Significant Properties must be viewed as being subject to significant change as more data about the properties becomes available. Such properties include wells with limited production histories (including post Calliope installation wells) and properties with proved undeveloped or proved non-producing reserves. In addition, Calliope wells are generally mature wells.  As such, they contain older down-hole equipment that is more subject to failure than new equipment.  The failure of such equipment, particularly casing, can result in complete loss of a well.

 

At October 31, 2008, LaRoche Petroleum Consultants, Ltd., an independent petroleum engineering firm, estimated proved reserves for all of the company’s properties.  In 2007 and 2006 McCartney Engineering, Inc., an independent petroleum engineering firm, estimated proved reserves for the company’s properties which represented 64% in 2007 and 63% in 2006 of the total estimated future value of estimated reserves.  In 2007 and 2006, remaining reserves were estimated by the company.  At October 31, 2008, natural gas represented 78% and crude oil represented 22% of total reserves denominated in equivalent Mcf’s using a six Mcf of gas to one barrel of oil conversion ratio.

 

The following table sets forth, as of October 31 of the indicated year, information regarding the company’s proved reserves which is based on the assumptions set forth in Note (10) to the Consolidated Financial Statements where additional reserve information is provided.  The average price used to calculate estimated future net revenues was $3.50, $5.89, and $6.32 per Mcf of gas and $62.25, $86.61, and $53.69 per barrel of oil as of October 31, 2008, 2007, and 2006, respectively.  Amounts do not include estimates of future Federal and state income taxes.

 

Year

 

Gas
(Mcf)  *

 

Oil
(bbls) *

 

Estimated Future
Net Revenues

 

Estimated Future
Net Revenues
Discounted at 10%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2008

 

15,525,000

 

710,000

 

$

53,655,000

 

$

32,330,000

 

2007

 

16,973,000

 

591,000

 

$

101,501,000

 

$

62,071,000

 

2006

 

16,005,000

 

422,000

 

$

84,861,000

 

$

52,328,000

 

 


*     The percentage of total reserves classified as proved developed was approximately 67% in 2008, 76% in 2007, and 87% in 2006.

 

Estimated Future Net Revenues Discounted at 10% is not a GAAP measure of operating performance. Because the company drills new wells on an ongoing basis, and plans to continue to do so in the future, it expects to continue to generate deferred income taxes which are not reasonably expected to be paid in the near term.  This pre-tax, non-GAAP measure is used by the company in connection with estimating funds expected to be available in the future for drilling and other operating activities.  The company believes that this performance measure may also be useful to investors for the same purpose.  The difference between this measure and the Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows From Reserves is that this measure excludes future income tax expense and the effect of the 10% discount factor on future income tax expense.  The following table provides a reconciliation of Estimated Future Net Revenues Discounted at 10% to the Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows as shown in Note 9 to the company’s Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

13



 

 

 

Year Ended October 31,

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

2006

 

Estimated future net revenues discounted at 10%

 

$

32,330,000

*

$

62,071,000

*

$

52,328,000

*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Future income tax expense

 

(9,119,000

)

(24,967,000

)

(20,747,000

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Effect of the 10% discount factor on future income tax expense

 

4,408,000

 

9,697,000

 

8,170,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows

 

$

27,619,000

 

$

46,801,000

 

$

39,751,000

 

 


* The average price used to calculate estimated future net revenues was $3.50, $5.89 and $6.32 per Mcf of gas and $62.25, $86.61, and $53.69 per barrel of oil as of October 31, 2008, 2007, and 2006, respectively.

 

Production, Average Sales Prices and Average Production Costs

 

The company’s net production quantities and average price realizations per unit for the indicated years are set forth below.  Price realizations include realized derivative gains or losses.

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

2006

 

Product

 

Volume

 

Price

 

Volume

 

Price

 

Volume

 

Price

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gas (Mcf)

 

1,545,000

 

$

7.40

(1)

1,926,000

 

$

6.78

(2)

2,176,000

 

$

6.11

(3)

Oil (bbls)

 

56,000

 

$

99.28

 

51,000

 

$

60.95

 

41,000

 

$

61.14

 

 


(1)   Includes $0.25 Mcf realized natural gas hedging derivative loss.

(2)   Includes $0.99 Mcf realized natural gas hedging derivative gain.

(3)   Includes $0.12 Mcf realized natural gas hedging derivative loss.

 

Average production costs, including production taxes, per equivalent Mcf of production (using a six Mcf of gas to one barrel of oil conversion ratio) were $2.05, $1.51 and $1.40 per Mcfe in 2008, 2007, and 2006, respectively.

 

Productive Wells and Developed Acreage

 

Developed acreage at October 31, 2008 totaled 27,000 net and 82,000 gross acres.  At October 31, 2008, the company owned working interests in 88.26 net (334 gross) wells consisting of 69.16 net (266 gross) natural gas wells and 19.1 net (68 gross) oil wells.  In addition, the company owned royalty and production payment interests in approximately 1,169 wells, primarily coal bed methane, located in Wyoming.  In 2008, the company sold 0.29 net (2 gross) wells.  No wells were abandoned.  In the same period, the company acquired interests in 6.14 net (23 gross) productive wells.

 

Undeveloped Acreage

 

The following table sets forth the number of undeveloped acres leased by the company (primarily located in the Mid-Continent and Rocky Mountain Regions) which will expire during the next five years (and thereafter) unless production is established in the interim.  Undeveloped acres “held-by-production” represent the undeveloped portions of producing leases which will not expire until commercial production ceases.

 

14



 

Expiration
Year Ending
October 31,

 

Royalty
Interest Acreage

 

Working
Interest Acreage

 

Gross

 

Net

 

Gross

 

Net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2009

 

 

 

22,700

 

8,000

 

2010

 

3,300

 

100

 

48,300

 

14,500

 

2011

 

 

 

55,500

 

22,100

 

2012

 

 

 

1,000

 

100

 

2013

 

 

 

3,600

 

3,400

 

Thereafter

 

3,700

 

500

 

12,800

 

2,300

 

Held-By-Production

 

152,100

 

8,000

 

7,400

 

3,700

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

159,100

 

8,600

 

151,300

 

53,100

 

 

In general, “royalty” interests are non-operated interests which are not burdened by costs of exploration or lease operations, while “working interests” have operating rights and participate in such costs.

 

Drilling

 

The following tables set forth the number of gross and net oil and gas wells in which the company has participated and the results thereof for the periods indicated.

 

Gross Wells

 

Year Ended
October 31,

 

Total Gross
Wells

 

Exploratory

 

Development

 

Oil

 

Gas

 

Dry

 

Oil

 

Gas

 

Dry

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    2008(1)

 

32

 

12

 

9

 

11

 

 

 

 

2007

 

24

 

5

 

11

 

7

 

 

1

 

 

2006

 

27

 

1

 

9

 

13

 

1

 

3

 

 

 


(1)                Of the gross wells drilled in 2008, four of the gas wells and three of the dry holes were operated by the company.  The remaining wells represent company participations in wells operated by others.

 

Net Wells

 

Year Ended
October 31,

 

Total Net
Wells

 

Exploratory

 

Development

 

Oil

 

Gas

 

Dry

 

Oil

 

Gas

 

Dry

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    2008(1)

 

6.581

 

1.874

 

1.886

 

2.821

 

 

 

 

2007

 

8.591

 

1.166

 

4.143

 

2.700

 

 

0.582

 

 

2006

 

10.421

 

0.300

 

3.184

 

5.029

 

0.306

 

1.602

 

 

 


(1)                Of the net wells drilled in 2008, 1.380 net gas wells and 0.925 net dry holes were operated by the company.  The remaining wells represent company participations in wells operated by others.

 

Insurance

 

The company believes that its existing insurance coverage is adequate to protect it from the risks associated with the ongoing operation of its business.  This coverage includes commercial property, liability and auto, workers compensation, inland marine and excess liability.

 

Facilities and Employees

 

The company’s corporate headquarters are located at 1801 Broadway, Suite 900, Denver, Colorado, in approximately 4,000 square feet occupied under a lease.  The company believes that this space is adequate for its current needs.  The company’s current lease expires in April 2011.

 

15



 

As of October 31, 2008, the company had 13 employees.  None of the company’s employees is subject to a collective bargaining agreement, and the company considers relations with its employees to be good.

 

Company Website

 

Information related to the following items, among other information, can be found on the company’s website at www.credopetroleum.com:  (a) company filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission including our annual report on Form 10-K/A, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) of 15(d) of the Exchange Act as soon as reasonably practicable after filing, (b) company press releases, (c) officers, directors and ten percent shareholders filings on Forms 3, 4 and 5, and (d) the company’s Code of Ethics and Audit Committee Charter.  The company’s website is not a part of, or incorporated by reference in, this Annual Report on Form 10-K/A.

 

ITEM 3.

 

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

 

From time to time, the company may be involved in litigation relating to claims arising out of the company’s operations in the normal course of business.  As of the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K/A, the company has been named as a defendant in a lawsuit alleging breach of contract, and other issues, arising in the normal course of its oil and gas activities.  The company believes that a contractual agreement requires that disputes be resolved by arbitration.  Although the company believes the allegations are without merit and that the company will ultimately prevail, the ultimate outcome of this lawsuit, or arbitration, cannot be determined at this time.

 

ITEM 4.

 

SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

 

No matters were submitted to a vote of security holders during the fourth quarter of 2008.

 

PART II

 

ITEM 5.

 

MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS, AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

 

The company’s common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global MarketSM under the symbol “CRED”.  Market quotations shown below were reported by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and represent prices between dealers excluding retail mark-up or commissions and may not necessarily represent actual transactions.

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

Quarter Ended

 

High

 

Low

 

High

 

Low

 

January 31

 

$

10.37

 

$

7.95

 

$

13.27

 

$

11.55

 

April 30

 

$

11.36

 

$

8.57

 

$

16.00

 

$

11.58

 

July 31

 

$

18.04

 

$

9.93

 

$

14.60

 

$

11.78

 

October 31

 

$

11.06

 

$

6.03

 

$

11.92

 

$

9.52

 

 

At January 7, 2009, the company had 2,451 shareholders of record.  The company has never paid a cash dividend and does not expect to pay any cash dividends in the foreseeable future.  Earnings are reinvested in business activities.

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.

 

During the fourth quarter of the fiscal year, the company repurchased 98,940 shares of its common stock on the open market at a weighted average price of $7.30.  The purchases were made pursuant to a stock repurchase plan announced on September 24, 2008.  The plan authorized repurchases up to $2,000,000, but could be expanded, suspended or discontinued at any time.  Subsequent to October 31, 2008, and through January 5, 2009, the company has repurchased an additional 64,112 shares, bringing the total shares repurchased to 163,052 at an average price per share of $8.60.

 

16



 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

Period

 

Total number of
shares purchased

 

Average price
paid per share

 

Total number
of shares
purchased
as part of
publicly
announced plan

 

Maximum dollar
value of shares
that may yet
be purchased
under the plan

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

September 1 - 30 2008

 

18,571

 

$

7.38

 

18,571

 

$

1,844,000

 

October 1 - 31 2008

 

80,369

 

$

7.04

 

80,369

 

$

1,278,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

98,940

 

 

 

98,940

 

$

1,278,000

 

 

Subsequent to October 31, 2008, and through January 5, 2008, the company has repurchased an additional 64,112 shares, bringing the total shares repurchased to 163,052 at an average price per share of $8.60.

 

Performance Graph

 

The following performance graph compares the cumulative total stockholder return on the company’s common stock for the six-year period ended October 31, 2008 with the cumulative total return of the AMEX Natural Gas Index, and the Standard & Poor’s 500 Stock Index.  The identities of the companies included in the index will be provided upon request.

 

 

 

 

October 31

 

 

 

2002

 

2003

 

2004

 

2005

 

2006

 

2007

 

2008

 

CREDO Petroleum Corporation

 

$

100

 

$

259

 

$

310

 

$

610

 

$

440

 

$

329

 

$

296

 

Standard & Poor’s 500 Stock Index

 

100

 

119

 

128

 

136

 

156

 

175

 

109

 

AMEX Natural Gas Index

 

100

 

152

 

210

 

299

 

335

 

443

 

340

 

 

17


 


 

ITEM 6.                  SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

 

The following table sets forth certain financial information with respect to the company and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the historical financial statements and notes thereto of the company included in Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”  The statement of operations and balance sheet data included in this table for each of the five years in the period ended October 31, 2008 were derived from the audited financial statements and the accompanying notes to those financial statements.

 

 

 

Years Ended October 31,

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

2006

 

2005

 

2004

 

Audited Financial Information

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Statement of Operations Data:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oil and gas sales

 

$

17,345,000

 

$

14,265,000

 

$

16,103,000

 

$

13,862,000

 

$

10,084,000

 

Oil and gas production expense

 

3,861,000

 

3,375,000

 

3,407,000

 

2,759,000

 

2,075,000

 

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

 

3,583,000

 

3,666,000

 

3,642,000

 

2,402,000

 

1,747,000

 

General and administrative

 

1,637,000

 

1,397,000

 

1,291,000

 

1,117,000

 

1,171,000

 

Income from operations

 

8,264,000

 

5,827,000

 

7,763,000

 

7,584,000

 

5,091,000

 

Realized hedge gains(losses)

 

(1,113,000

)

1,909,000

 

(266,000

)

(719,000

)

(717,000

)

Unrealized hedge gains(losses)

 

1,301,000

 

(454,000

)

1,327,000

 

182,000

 

(857,000

)

Investment and other income(loss)

 

(291,000

)

819,000

 

654,000

 

146,000

 

343,000

 

Interest expense

 

8,000

 

26,000

 

42,000

 

37,000

 

39,000

 

Income before income taxes

 

8,153,000

 

8,075,000

 

9,436,000

 

7,156,000

 

3,821,000

 

Net income

 

5,993,000

 

5,760,000

 

6,836,000

 

5,153,000

 

2,751,000

 

Net income per share(1):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

 

$

0.62

 

$

0.62

 

$

0.74

 

$

0.57

 

$

0.30

 

Diluted

 

$

0.61

 

$

0.61

 

$

0.72

 

$

0.55

 

$

0.30

 

Weighted-average shares

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

outstanding(1):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

 

9,697,000

 

9,280,000

 

9,207,000

 

9,080,000

 

9,036,000

 

Diluted

 

9,758,000

 

9,395,000

 

9,482,000

 

9,367,000

 

9,282,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance Sheet Data:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Working capital

 

24,160,000

 

12,511,000

 

10,073,000

 

7,697,000

 

5,611,000

 

Total assets

 

80,650,000

 

55,349,000

 

47,759,000

 

37,844,000

 

30,976,000

 

Long-term obligations:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deferred income taxes-net

 

11,117,000

 

9,204,000

 

8,039,000

 

5,978,000

 

4,605,000

 

Asset retirement obligation

 

1,338,000

 

1,016,000

 

954,000

 

929,000

 

748,000

 

Exclusive license

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

agreement obligation

 

 

85,000

 

163,000

 

233,000

 

297,000

 

Stockholders’ equity

 

62,211,000

 

41,140,000

 

34,767,000

 

26,947,000

 

20,920,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unaudited Operating Data

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Production Volumes:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gas (Mcf)

 

1,545,000

 

1,926,000

 

2,176,000

 

1,830,000

 

1,710,000

 

Oil (Bbls)

 

56,000

 

51,000

 

41,000

 

37,000

 

41,000

 

Mcfe

 

1,880,000

 

2,234,000

 

2,422,000

 

2,050,000

 

1,960,000

 

Avg. sales price before realized derivative gains & losses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Per Mcf

 

$

7.65

 

$

5.79

 

$

6.24

 

$

6.55

 

$

5.02

 

Per Bbls

 

$

99.28

 

$

60.95

 

$

61.14

 

$

50.90

 

$

36.57

 

Avg. sales price after realized derivative gains & losses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Per Mcf

 

$

7.40

 

$

6.78

 

$

6.11

 

$

6.16

 

$

4.60

 

Per Bbls

 

$

99.28

 

$

60.95

 

$

61.14

 

$

50.90

 

$

36.57

 

Reserves(2):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gas (Mcf)

 

15,525,000

 

16,973,000

 

16,005,000

 

15,516,000

 

15,273,000

 

Oil (Bbls)

 

710,000

 

591,000

 

422,000

 

386,000

 

407,000

 

Mcfe

 

19,788,000

 

20,517,000

 

18,537,000

 

17,835,000

 

17,717,000

 

Estimated future net revenues

 

$

53,655,000

 

$

101,501,000

 

$

84,861,000

 

$

136,878,000

 

$

77,612,000

 

Estimated future net revenues discounted at 10%

 

$

32,330,000

 

$

62,071,000

 

$

52,328,000

 

$

81,209,000

 

$

44,551,000

 

 


(1) The effect of the three for two stock splits in 2005 and 2004 are reflected in all historical share and per share data.

(2) See Footnote 10 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

18



 

ITEM 7.

 

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

Operations

 

Summary — During 2008, the company’s operations were focused on its two core projects — drilling in the Mid-Continent area of the U.S. and application of its Calliope Gas Recovery System.  During the past several years, the company has significantly expanded the volume and breadth of its drilling activities by diversifying geographically, scientifically, and in terms of capital, risk and reserve potential.  The company has also implemented a program to increase the volume of its Calliope applications by joint venturing with other companies.

 

These activities are discussed in greater detail below.

 

The company believes that, in combination, its drilling and Calliope projects provide an excellent (and possibly unique) balance for achieving its goal of adding long-lived oil and natural gas reserves and production at reasonable costs and risks.  However, it should be expected that successful results will occur unevenly for both the drilling and Calliope projects.  Drilling results are dependent on both the timing of drilling and on the drilling success rate.  Calliope results are primarily dependent on the timing, volume and quality of Calliope installations available to the company.

 

The company will continue to actively pursue adding reserves through its two core projects in fiscal 2009, and expects these activities to be a reliable source of reserve additions.  However, the timing and extent of such activities can be dependent on many factors which are beyond the company’s control, including but not limited to, the availability of oil field services such as drilling rigs, production equipment and related services, and access to wells for application of the company’s patented gas recovery system on low pressure gas wells.  The prevailing price of oil and natural gas has a significant effect on demand and, thus, the related cost of such services and wells.

 

During the year, the company experienced delays in securing delivery of production equipment, primarily compressors and coil tubing.  These delays extended the time to conduct field operations in general, and in particular related to installations of Calliope systems.

 

Results of Operations

 

In 2008, oil and gas revenues increased 22% to $17,345,000 compared to $14,265,000 in 2007.  The increase was due to a 63% increase in oil prices and a 32% increase in gas prices (excluding realized derivative gains and losses) partially offset by a 16% decrease in gas equivalent production.  As the oil and gas price/volume table on page 22 shows, total gas price realizations, which reflect realized derivative transactions, increased 9% to $7.40 per Mcf and oil price realizations increased to $99.28 per barrel.  The net effect of these price realization changes was to increase oil and gas sales by $3,252,000 (vs. $5,547,000 increase without derivative gains and losses).  Realized derivative losses were $1,113,000 in 2008 compared to gains of $1,909,000 in 2007.  During the same period, the company’s gas equivalent production fell 16% resulting in a decrease in oil and gas sales of $2,467,000.  Unrealized derivative gains were $1,301,000 in FY 2008 compared to unrealized losses of $454,000 in 2007.  Investment and other income decreased primarily due to market place declines impact on the company’s investments.

 

In 2008, total costs and expenses rose 7.6% to $9,081,000 compared to $8,438,000 in 2007.  Oil and gas production expenses increased 14% due primarily to the addition of new wells and escalating field service costs.  General and administrative expenses increased 17% primarily due to increases in salaries and benefits, accounting and professional fees.  The effective tax rate was 26.5% and 28.7% for the 2008 and 2007 periods, respectively.  The variation from statutory rate is primarily due to percentage depletion.

 

In 2007, oil and gas revenues decreased 11% to $14,265,000 compared to $16,103,000 in 2006.  The decrease was due to a 7% decline in gas prices (excluding realized derivative gains and losses) and an 8% decrease in gas equivalent production.  As the oil and gas price/volume table on page 22

 

19



 

shows, total gas price realizations, which reflect realized hedging transactions, increased 11% to $6.78 per Mcf and oil price realizations fell to $60.95 per barrel.  The net effect of these price realization changes was to increase oil and gas sales by $1,187,000 (vs. $988,000 decrease without derivatives).  Realized derivative gains were $1,909,000 in 2007 compared to losses of $266,000 in 2006.  During the same period, the company’s gas equivalent production fell 8% resulting in a decrease in oil and gas sales of $849,000.  Unrealized derivative losses were $454,000 in FY 2007 compared to unrealized gains of $1,327,000 in 2006.  Investment and other income increased primarily due to improved performance from the company’s investments.

 

In 2007, total costs and expenses rose 1% to $8,438,000 compared to $8,340,000 for 2006.  Oil and gas production expenses fell 1% due primarily to reduced taxes associated with lower production.  General and administrative expenses increased 8% primarily due to increases in professional fees related to compliance with Sarbanes-Oxley regulations.  Interest expense relates to the Calliope exclusive license agreement note payment.  The effective tax rate was 28.7% and 27.6% for the 2007 and 2006 periods, respectively.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

At October 31, 2008, working capital increased 93% to $24,160,000, compared to $12,511,000 at October 31, 2007, primarily due to the sale of 1,150,000 shares of newly issued common stock.  For the year ended October 31, 2008, net cash provided by operating activities was $12,293,000 compared to $11,674,000 for the same period in 2007.  The difference is primarily due to differences in non-cash unrealized gains/losses from derivatives of $1,755,000 between 2007 and 2008, a change in net proceeds from short-term investments from 2007 to 2008 of $3,480,000 and a decrease in accounts payable and accrued liabilities from 2007 to 2008 of $285,000 and an increase in trade receivables from 2007 to 2008 of $759,000.  Investing activities primarily included oil and gas exploration and development expenditures, including Calliope, totaling $12,528,000 and $9,144,000, in 2008 and 2007.  Financing activities primarily included the sale of common stock of $15,095,000 net of transaction costs in 2008, the purchase of treasury stock of $722,000 and $506,000 and proceeds from exercise of stock options of $637,000 and $368,000 in 2008 and 2007, respectively.

 

The company’s earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, depletion and amortization, (“EBITDA”) was $11,744,000 for the year ended October 31, 2008 and $11,767,000 for the prior year.  EBITDA is not a GAAP measure of operating performance.  The company uses this non-GAAP performance measure primarily to compare its performance with other companies in the industry that make a similar disclosure.  The company believes that this performance measure may also be useful to investors for the same purpose.  Investors should not consider this measure in isolation or as a substitute for operating income, or any other measure for determining the company’s operating performance that is calculated in accordance with GAAP.  In addition, because EBITDA is not a GAAP measure, it may not necessarily be comparable to similarly titled measures employed by other companies.  A reconciliation between EBITDA and net income is provided in the table below:

 

 

 

For The Year Ended October 31,

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RECONCILIATION OF EBITDA:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net Income

 

$

5,993,000

 

$

5,760,000

 

$

6,836,000

 

Add Back(Deduct):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest Expense

 

8,000

 

26,000

 

42,000

 

Income Tax Expense

 

2,160,000

 

2,315,000

 

2,600,000

 

Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Expense

 

3,583,000

 

3,666,000

 

3,642,000

 

EBITDA

 

$

11,744,000

 

$

11,767,000

 

$

13,120,000

 

 

The average return, loss, on the company’s investments for the year ended October 31, 2008 and 2007 was a loss of 2.0% and a gain of 11.0%, respectively.  At October 31, 2008, approximately 92% of the investments consist primarily of professionally managed limited partnerships which include investments that are not publicly traded and may have less readily determinable market values.  The company is in the process of liquidating these investments.  Remaining investments are directly invested in mutual funds and were managed by professional money managers.  Most of the investments are liquid and the company believes they represent a responsible approach to cash management.  In

 

20



 

the company’s opinion, the greatest investment risk is the potential for negative market impact from unexpected, major adverse news.

 

Existing working capital and anticipated cash flow are expected to be sufficient to fund operations and capital requirements for at least the next 12 months.  At October 31, 2008, the company had no lines of credit or other bank financing arrangements except for the hedging line of credit discussed in Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.  Because earnings are anticipated to be reinvested in operations, cash dividends are not expected to be paid.  The company has no defined benefit plans and no obligations for post retirement employee benefits.

 

As of October 31, 2008, the company had the following known contractual obligations:

 

 

 

Payments Due by Period

 

 

 

Total

 

Less Than
1 Year

 

1-3
Years

 

3-5
Years

 

More Than
5 Years

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exclusive license obligation (1)

 

$

85,000

 

$

85,000

 

$

 

$

 

$

 

Operating lease obligations

 

78,000

 

32,000

 

46,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

$

163,000

 

$

117,000

 

$

46,000

 

$

 

$

 

 


(1)          Subsequent to October 31, 2008, the company purchased the patents underlying the license agreement and eliminated this commitment.

 

Impact of Current Credit Markets

 

As the company exited the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008, oil and natural gas prices had declined sharply from their recent record levels.  In addition, recent problems in the credit markets, steep stock market declines, financial institution failures and government bail-outs provide evidence of a weakening United States and global economy.  As a result of the market turmoil and price decreases, oil and gas companies with high debt levels and lack of liquidity have been and will continue to be negatively impacted.  However, the company does not expect to be significantly impacted by these recent events.  The company has no debt and is in a financially-strong position due to its past strategies.  The company anticipates its cash on hand and operating cash flow will adequately fund planned capital expenditures and other capital uses over the near-term.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

The company has no off-balance sheet arrangements at October 31, 2008.

 

Product Prices and Production

 

Refer to Item 1., “Markets and Customers”, for discussion of oil and gas prices and marketing.

 

21



 

Oil and natural gas sales volume and price realization comparisons for the indicated years ended October 31 are set forth below.  Price realizations include realized hedging gains and losses.

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

2006

 

Price Realization

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natural Gas

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net wellhead price received (per Mcf)

 

$

7.65

 

$

5.79

 

$

6.23

 

Effects of derivative gains (losses) (per Mcf)(1)

 

(0.25

)

0.99

 

(0.12

)

Net price realization (per Mcf)

 

$

7.40

 

$

6.78

 

$

6.11

 

% Change

 

9

%

11

%

(1

)%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oil

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net wellhead price received (per Bbl)

 

$

99.28

 

$

60.95

 

$

61.14

 

Effects of derivative gains (losses) (per Bbl)

 

 

 

 

Net price realization (per Bbl)

 

$

99.28

 

$

60.95

 

$

61.14

 

% Change

 

63

%

0

%

20

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Sales Volumes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natural Gas (Mcf)

 

1,545,000

 

1,926,000

 

2,176,000

 

% Change

 

(20

)%

(11

)%

19

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oil (Bbl)

 

56,000

 

51,000

 

41,000

 

% Change

 

9

%

24

%

11

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total equivalent production (Mcfe)

 

1,880,000

 

2,234,000

 

2,422,000

 

% Change

 

(16

)%

(8

)%

18

%

 


(1)  Effects of realized gains (losses) on natural gas hedging derivative contracts.

 

Although product prices are key to the company’s ability to operate profitably and to budget capital expenditures, they are beyond the company’s control and are difficult to predict.  Since 1991, the company has periodically hedged the price of a portion of its estimated natural gas production when the potential for significant downward price movement is anticipated.  Derivative transactions typically take the form of forward short positions and collars on the NYMEX futures market, and are closed by purchasing offsetting positions.

 

The company has elected not to designate its commodity derivatives as cash flow hedges for accounting purposes.  Accordingly, such contracts are recorded at fair value on its Balance Sheet and changes in fair value are recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Operations as they occur.

 

Open derivative contracts at October 31, 2008 are indexed to the NYMEX and are represented by short positions.  Actual price realizations in the company’s principal areas of operations (primarily Oklahoma) are expected to be 15% to 17% below NYMEX prices primarily due to basis differentials.  However, regional weather conditions and other economic factors, such as the current delay in completion of the eastern extension of the Rocky Mountain Express gas pipeline, resulting in excess natural gas supplies to the mid-continent region, can periodically result in substantially higher basis differentials.  At October 31, 2008, the Oklahoma basis differential was 56% of the NYMEX price.

 

The company has a hedging line of credit with its bank which is available, at the discretion of the company, to meet margin calls.  To date, the company has not used this facility and maintains it only as a precaution related to possible margin calls.  The maximum credit line available is $5,900,000 with interest calculated at the prime rate.  The facility is unsecured and has covenants that require the company to maintain $3,000,000 in cash or short term investments, none of which are required to be maintained at the company’s bank, and prohibits funded debt in excess of $500,000.  The line expires November 15, 2010.

 

22



 

Oil and Gas Activities

 

Capital Spending.  Capital spending in 2008 totaled $14,948,000, consisting primarily of additions to oil and gas properties.  Subsequent to fiscal year end, the company purchased all of the Calliope Gas Recovery System patents and all of the remaining third party right, title and interest in the Calliope technology.  In addition, the company purchased all of the patents for its new Tractor Seal fluid lift technology together with all third party right, title and interest in the technology The Tractor Seal technology is currently in the development state and, except for the patents, the company has not yet provided public disclosure regarding the technology.  The total purchase price was $4,500,000.

 

Drilling Activities

 

Northern Anadarko Basin — The company owns a significant inventory of acreage (approximately 70,000 gross acres) located along the northern portion of the Anadarko Basin where it conducts an active drilling program.  Wells generally target the Morrow, Oswego and Chester formations between 7,000 and 11,000 feet.  The company expects to drill a substantial number of additional wells on this acreage.

 

During the year, the company drilled thirteen wells on its Oklahoma properties.  Of those, eleven are producers and two were dry holes.  Subsequent to fiscal year end, the company drilled three wells in Oklahoma, all of which appear to be commercial producers.  During the final 24-hour test, a new deeper pool discover well on the company’s 1,280 gross acre Pool\Proffitt prospect produced oil and gas at high rates from the Hunton formation with virgin pressure.  Electric logs and drilling and completion data indicate that the Chester and Mississippian formations are also productive in the well.  However, completion of the up-hole zones will be delayed in order to more fully evaluate the Hunton zone potential.  The company owns a 47% working interest and is the operator.  About one mile to the north on the Pool\Proffitt prospect, another well is currently being completed in the Mississippian and Chester formations.  The company owns a 73% working interest and is the operator.  A third well is currently being completed for production in Carter County in which the company owns a 44% working interest.  The new well will develop two deeper Deese formation oil sands and the Woodford formation, both of which electric logs indicate are productive.

 

In Southern Oklahoma, the company is participating in three waterflood projects as part of its overall strategy to improve the oil ratio in its reserve base.  In Carter County, CREDO owns 17% of the Southeast Hewitt waterflood unit which has already produced 703,000 barrels of oil.  The company also owns about 22% in Phase 1, and 12.3% in Phase 2, of a Twin Forks Deese sand waterflood unit that has recently been formed.  In Love County, CREDO owns 13% in Phase 1, and 9.5% in Phase 2, of the Eastman Hills waterflood unit that is installed and operational.

 

In Hemphill County, Texas, the company has purchased interests in over 6,000 gross acres and has taken over as operator of 11 wells.  The new acreage complements the company’s existing prospect acreage and brings its total acreage in the area to approximately 9,000 gross acres.

 

South Texas — In South Texas, the initial test well on the Gemini Prospect resulted in a dry hole. The 17,000-foot well confirmed the seismic interpretation and found porous sand.  However, the sand was water wet and the well was plugged and abandoned.  CREDO received approximately $1,300,000 of cash for the multiple prospect package and retained an 11.25% “carried interest” in the test well.

 

The prospect package consists of two additional Deep Wilcox prospects located north of the Gemini Prospect.  These two prospects are structurally different and unique compared to the Gemini Prospect.  Those prospects are being further evaluated, and if drilled, CREDO will have an 11.25% carried interest in the first well.

 

Elsewhere in South Texas, the company has purchased a 15.5% working interest in the Escobas Field. A new 15,500-foot Wilcox well has been drilled in which the company has a small carried interest.  That well is currently producing 2.7 MMcfd (million cubic of gas per day) on a 12/64ths choke.

 

Central Kansas Uplift — The company further expanded the volume and breadth of its exploration program with a new drilling project in central Kansas and Nebraska.  The project provides

 

23



 

diversification to the company’s drilling program geographically and scientifically through the use of 3-D seismic to identify shallow oil prospects.  The acreage is located in prolific oil producing areas where 3-D seismic has proven effective in identifying satellite structures near mature producing fields.  Higher oil prices have justified using 3-D seismic technology to locate undrilled structures that are very difficult to find with old technology.  Drilling targets the Lansing-Kansas City and Arbuckle formations at about 4,000 feet and, compared to the company’s Northern Anadarko Basin and South Texas projects, is relatively low cost, low risk, and exclusively targets oil reserves in an effort to bring better product balance to the company’s reserve base.  The company has assembled about 141,000 gross (66,000 net) acres and is continuing to seek opportunities to increase its exposure to the play.  The company owns working interests in the existing prospects ranging from 12.5% to 85%.  The company’s recent drilling results have improved significantly as it continues to find the keys to successful seismic and geologic interpretation.  At October 31, 2008, the company has participated in drilling a total of 29 wells on the acreage, of which 48% have been successfully completed as oil producers.  Well depths range from 3,500 to 4,000 feet and drilling costs are moderate.

 

The company has recently drilled a wildcat well on a 2,150 gross acre seismically defined prospect. Production pipe has been set through the Lansing-Kansas City formation.  The well is classified as a “tight hole”, meaning that detailed information is not being released for proprietary business reasons.  CREDO owns an 85% working interest in the prospect and is the operator.  Development drilling is scheduled.

 

North Dakota — During 2008 the company expanded its exploration program into North Dakota and acquired approximately 4,200 gross acres (4,100 net) in the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation area of the Bakken shale play.

 

Calliope Gas Recovery Technology

 

Calliope’s Track Record — The company’s current compilation of Calliope’s track record shows Calliope installations on 25 wells located in Oklahoma, Texas and Louisiana.  The Calliope wells produce from both sandstone and carbonate reservoirs including the Chester, Cotton Valley, Edwards, Hart, Hunton, Morrow, Nodosaria, Redfork and Springer formations.  The Calliope wells range in depth from 6,400 to 18,400 feet.  These wells represent rigorous applications for Calliope because at the time Calliope was installed, 14 of the wells were dead (an average of two to three years), nine were uneconomic and two were marginal.  In addition, prior to the time Calliope was installed, many of the reservoirs were damaged by the “parting shots” of previous operators. Twenty-three of the wells were acquired from other operators after the operators had given-up on these wells.  The previous operators were mostly medium to large independent oil and gas companies.

 

Initial Calliope production rates range up to 650 Mcfd and average per well Calliope reserves for non-experimental wells are estimated to be 1.0 Bcf.  One of the company’s early Calliope installations, the J.C. Carroll well, has now produced over 1.1 billion cubic feet of gas using Calliope.

 

The 25 Calliope applications are grouped into two categories — experimental wells and non-experimental wells, also referred to as “go-forward” applications.  Eleven of the 25 wells are experimental applications and 14 are go-forward applications.  Experimental wells generally represent the first experimental application of a Calliope configuration in a wellbore.  For example, the first installation of Calliope inside a particular tubing size is classified as an experimental application.

 

Calliope has achieved compelling results on these less than ideal wells.  For example, the entire group of 14 non-experimental wells were producing a total of only 88 Mcfd when Calliope was installed.  Without Calliope, the wells represented a substantial plugging liability.  However, with Calliope, those same 14 wells have now produced an approximate incremental 4.2 Bcfe to date, and they are still producing substantial quantities of gas.  With Calliope and depending on natural gas prices at the time gas is produced, the 14 wells are projected to have estimated ultimate incremental Calliope reserves ranging from 11 to 14 Bcfe depending primarily on the effect that natural gas prices have on well economics.

 

24



 

Calliope has proven to be a low risk and low cost liquid lift technology.  The average cost of a Calliope system is $400,000 for a 12,000-foot application.  Based on average per well Calliope reserves of 1.0 Bcfe for go-forward applications, cost of Calliope in terms of units of natural gas reserves added is low compared to industry averages.  Based on current natural gas prices, Calliope can economically be installed on wells which will yield significantly less than 1.0 Bcf of Calliope reserves.  This will enable the company to significantly expand the range of Calliope applications to include many low permeability reservoirs, possibly including those in shale and other “resource plays”.

 

Realizing Calliope’s value continues to be one of the company’s top priorities.  The company has been focused on three fronts to increase the number of Calliope installations:  expanding the geographic region for purchasing Calliope candidate wells from third parties, joint ventures with larger companies, and drilling wells into low-pressure gas reservoirs for the purpose of using Calliope to recover stranded natural gas reserves.

 

Purchasing Calliope Candidate Wells — The company has Calliope operations in Oklahoma, Texas and Louisiana, and considers Texas and Louisiana to be very fertile areas for Calliope.  Accordingly, the company opened a Houston office to focus exclusively on purchasing wells for Calliope and on Calliope joint ventures.

 

During most of 2008, higher natural gas prices made it increasingly difficult for the company to purchase wells for its Calliope system.  In addition, higher gas prices provided the incentive for other companies to perform high risk procedures (“parting shots”) in an attempt to revive wells prior to abandoning or selling the wells.  These parting shots often result in severe reservoir damage that renders wells unsuitable for Calliope.  Accordingly, viable Calliope candidate wells available to be purchased by the company were very restricted.

 

Joint Ventures With Third Parties — In an effort to increase the number of Calliope installations, the company has been discussing joint ventures with larger companies.  Presentations have been made to a select group of companies, including majors and large independents.  All of the companies have expressed an interest in Calliope.  Two joint venture agreements were completed during 2007, and joint venture discussions are in progress with a number of companies, including evaluation of candidate wells.

 

Calliope Drilling Project — The company believes that there is a huge amount of gas stranded in abandoned and low pressure reservoirs that, depending on natural gas prices, can be economically recovered using Calliope.  It believes drilling new wells for Calliope into such reservoirs will provide a repeatable opportunity to lease large areas for systematic re-development.  In addition, new wells allow optimum casing and tubular sizes to be installed which will substantially improve reserves and production compared to installing Calliope on existing wells where undersized tubulars often restrict Calliope’s optimum performance.

 

Current low natural gas prices may delay such drilling projects until prices recover.

 

For example, the company entered into a joint venture to purchase an 11,000-foot well located in East Texas.  The previous operator drilled the well and encountered low reservoir pressure.  After unsuccessful attempts to make the well produce, the operator sold the well to the company joint venture for salvage value.  Calliope was installed and immediately made the well a highly commercial producer.  The well provided a successful test of the Calliope drilling concept and demonstrated that Calliope will successfully solve liquid loading problems that are difficult to address with other liquid lift technologies.

 

Reserves.  Refer to Item 2, “Properties, Significant Properties, Estimated Proved Oil and Gas Reserves and Future Net Revenues”, for information regarding oil and gas reserves.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires the company to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  The company bases its estimates on historical experience and

 

25



 

on various other assumptions it believes to be reasonable under the circumstances.  Although actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions, the company believes that its estimates are reasonable and that actual results will not vary significantly from the estimated amounts.  The company believes the following accounting policies and estimates are critical in the preparation of its consolidated financial statements: the carrying value of its oil and natural gas properties, the accounting for oil and natural gas reserves, and the estimate of its asset retirement obligations.

 

Derivatives.  The company has elected not to designate its commodity derivatives as cash flow hedges for accounting purposes.  Accordingly, such contracts are recorded at fair value on its balance sheet and changes in fair value are recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Operations as they occur.

 

Oil and Gas Properties.  The company uses the full cost method of accounting for costs related to its oil and natural gas properties.  Capitalized costs included in the full cost pool are depleted on an aggregate basis using the units-of-production method.  Depreciation, depletion and amortization is a significant component of oil and natural gas properties.  A change in proved reserves without a corresponding change in capitalized costs will cause the depletion rate to increase or decrease.

 

Both the volume of proved reserves and any estimated future expenditures used for the depletion calculation are based on estimates such as those described under “Oil and Gas Reserves” below.

 

The capitalized costs in the full cost pool are subject to a quarterly ceiling test that limits such pooled costs to the aggregate of the present value of future net revenues attributable to proved oil and natural gas reserves discounted at 10 percent plus the lower of cost or market value of unproved properties less any associated tax effects.  If such capitalized costs exceed the ceiling, the company will record a write-down to the extent of such excess as a non-cash charge to earnings, unless the company considered price increases subsequent to the balance sheet date which may reduce or eliminate a write-down.  Any such write-down will reduce earnings in the period of occurrence and result in lower depreciation and depletion in future periods.  A write-down may not be reversed in future periods, even though higher oil and natural gas prices may subsequently increase the ceiling.

 

Periodically market conditions can result in a significant increase in the differential between the NYMEX price for natural gas and the regional price index that is utilized to value the company’s reserves.

 

Changes in oil and natural gas prices have historically had the most significant impact on the company’s ceiling test.  In general, the ceiling is lower when prices are lower.  Even though oil and natural gas prices can be highly volatile over weeks and even days, the ceiling calculation dictates that prices in effect as of the last day of the test period be used and held constant.  The resulting valuation is a snapshot as of that day and, thus, is generally not indicative of a true fair value that would be placed on the company’s reserves by the company or by an independent third party.  Therefore, the future net revenues associated with the estimated proved reserves are not based on the company’s assessment of future prices or costs, but rather are based on prices and costs in effect as of the end the test period.

 

Oil and Gas Reserves.  The determination of depreciation and depletion expense as well as ceiling test write-downs related to the recorded value of the company’s oil and natural gas properties are highly dependent on the estimates of the proved oil and natural gas reserves. Oil and natural gas reserves include proved reserves that represent estimated quantities of crude oil and natural gas which geological and engineering data demonstrate with reasonable certainty to be recoverable in future years from known reservoirs under existing economic and operating conditions.  There are numerous uncertainties inherent in estimating oil and natural gas reserves and their values, including many factors beyond the company’s control. Accordingly, reserve estimates are often different from the quantities of oil and natural gas ultimately recovered and the corresponding lifting costs associated with the recovery of these reserves.

 

The company’s reserves, and reserve values, are concentrated in 68 properties (“Significant Properties”).  Some of the Significant Properties are individual wells and others are multi-well

 

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properties.  At October 31, 2008, the Significant Properties represent 24% of the company’s total properties but a disproportionate 80% of the discounted value (at 10%) of the company’s reserves.  Individual wells on which the company’s patented Calliope liquid lift system is installed comprise 16% of the Significant Properties and represent 14% of the discounted reserve value of such properties.  Reserves added in 2008 comprise 25% of the Significant Properties and represent 26% of the discounted value of such properties.

 

Estimates of reserve quantities and values for certain Significant Properties must be viewed as being subject to significant change as more data about the properties becomes available. Such properties include wells with limited production histories and properties with proved undeveloped or proved non-producing reserves.  In addition, the company’s patented Calliope liquid lift system is generally installed on mature wells.  As such, they contain older down-hole equipment that is more subject to failure than new equipment.  The failure of such equipment, particularly casing, can result in complete loss of a well.  Historically, performance of the company’s wells has not caused significant revisions in its proved reserves.

 

Price changes will affect the economic lives of oil and gas properties and, therefore, price changes may cause reserve revisions.  Price changes have resulted in estimated reserve revisions in fiscal year 2008.  Compared with fiscal year end 2007, natural gas prices have decreased 30% and oil prices have decreased 22%.  These price decreases resulted in a 14.5% reduction in estimated proved reserves.

 

One measure of the life of the company’s proved reserves can be calculated by dividing proved reserves at fiscal year end 2008 by production for fiscal year 2008.  This measure yields an average reserve life of 10.5 years.  Since this measure is an average, by definition, some of the company’s properties will have a life shorter than the average and some will have a life longer than the average.  The expected economic lives of the company’s properties may vary widely depending on, among other things, the size and quality, natural gas and oil prices, possible curtailments in consumption by purchasers, and changes in governmental regulations or taxation.  As a result, the company’s actual future net cash flows from proved reserves could be materially different from its estimates.

 

Asset Retirement Obligations.  Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 143, “Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations” requires that the company estimate the future cost of asset retirement obligations, discount that cost to its present value, and record a corresponding asset and liability in its Consolidated Balance Sheets.  The values ultimately derived are based on many significant estimates, including future abandonment costs, inflation, useful life, and cost of capital.  The nature of these estimates requires the company to make judgments based on historical experience and future expectations.  Revisions to the estimates may be required based on such things as changes to cost estimates or the timing of future cash outlays. Any such changes that result in upward or downward revisions in the estimated obligation will result in an adjustment to the related capitalized asset and corresponding liability on a prospective basis.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

In March 2008, the FASB issued Statement No. 161 (FAS 161), “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133,” which requires additional disclosures about the objectives of using derivative instruments, the method by which the derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for under FASB Statement No. 133 and its related interpretations, and the effect of derivative instruments and related hedged items on financial position, financial performance and cash flows.  FAS 161 also requires disclosure of the fair values of derivative instruments and their gains and losses in a tabular format.  FAS 161 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008 and interim periods within those fiscal years (fiscal 2010 for the company).  The Company is in the process of determining the effects the adoption of FAS 161 will have on its financial statement disclosures.

 

In December, 2007 the FASB issued FSAS No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities — Including an amendment of FASB Statement No. 115.  This Statement provides all entities with an option to report selected financial assets and liabilities at fair value.  The Statement is effective as of the beginning of an entity’s first fiscal year beginning after

 

27



 

November 15, 2007, with early adoption available in certain circumstances.  The company does not expect to elect the options provided by FAS 159.

 

In December, 2007 the FASB issued FSAS No. 157, Fair Value Measurements.  This Statement does not require any new fair value measurements, but rather, it provides enhanced guidance to other pronouncements that require or permit assets or liabilities to be measured at fair value.  However, the application of this Statement may change how fair value is determined.  The Statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, and interim periods within those fiscal years.  The company will adopt FAS 157 for the first quarter of fiscal 2009 and does not expect a material impact on its financial statements.

 

In November 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (revised 2007), Business Combination (FAS 141(R)) and SFAS No. 160, Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements, an amendment of ARB No. 51 (FAS 160).  FAS 141(R) will change how business acquisitions are accounted for and will impact financial statements both on the acquisition date and in subsequent periods.  FAS 160 will change the accounting and reporting for minority interests, which will be recharacterized as noncontrolling interests and classified as a component of equity.  FAS 141(R) and FAS 160 are effective for both public and private companies for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2008 (fiscal 2010 for the Company).  FAS 141(R) will be applied prospectively.  FAS 160 requires retroactive adoption of the presentation and disclosure requirements for existing minority interests.  All other requirements of FAS 160 will be applied prospectively.  Early adoption is prohibited for both standards.  Management is currently evaluating the requirements of FAS 141(R) and FAS 160 and has not yet determined the impact on its financial statements.

 

ITEM 7A.                                      QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

The company manages exposure to commodity price fluctuations by periodically hedging a portion of estimated natural gas production through the use of derivatives, typically collars and forward short positions in the NYMEX futures market.  At October 31, 2008 open derivative contracts covered 830,000 MMBtus, approximately 55% of the company’s anticipated 2009 natural gas production, at NYMEX prices ranging from $8.00 to $10.60 and covered the production months of November, 2008 through October, 2009.  Actual price realizations in the company’s principal areas of operations (primarily Oklahoma) are expected to be 15% to 17% below NYMEX prices primarily due to basis differentials.  However, regional weather conditions and other economic factors can periodically result in substantially higher basis differentials.  See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Product Prices and Production” for more information on the company’s hedging activities.  Relevant terms of the open derivative contracts at October 31, 2008 are as follows:

 

Natural Gas Forward Short Positions

 

Fiscal Quarter Ending

 

Contract
Volumes MMBtus

 

Weighted Average
Price per MMBtu

 

Fair Value

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jan. 31, 2009

 

280,000

 

$

9.80

 

$

844,000

 

Apr. 30, 2009

 

250,000

 

$

9.54

 

619,000

 

July 31, 2009

 

150,000

 

$

8.15

 

148,000

 

Oct. 31, 2009

 

150,000

 

$

8.31

 

134,000

 

Total

 

830,000

 

 

 

$

1,745,000

 

 

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ITEM 9A.               CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

Attached as exhibits to this report are certifications of our CEO and CFO required pursuant to Rule 13a-14 under the Exchange Act.  This section includes information concerning the controls and procedures evaluation referred to in the certifications.

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures.  We conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of October 31, 2008.  This evaluation was conducted under the supervision and with the participation of management, including our CEO and CFO.  Based on this evaluation, our CEO and CFO have concluded that, subject to the limitations noted in this section, as of October 31, 2008, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified by the rules and forms of the SEC. We also concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in the reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our CEO and CFO, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting.  Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act) to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of our financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.  Internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of assets of the company, (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our CEO and CFO, we assessed our internal control over financial reporting as of October 31, 2008, the end of our fiscal year.  This assessment was based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.  Based on our assessment, management has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of October 31, 2008.

 

The effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of October 31, 2008 has been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, our independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report which is included herein.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting.  There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the quarterly period ended October 31, 2008 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

Inherent Limitations on Effectiveness of Controls.  Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements.  All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations.  Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation.  Additionally, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

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SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of Denver, State of Colorado on February 20, 2009.

 

 

CREDO PETROLEUM CORPORATION

 

(Registrant)

 

 

 

 

 

By:

/s/ James T. Huffman

 

 

 James T. Huffman,

 

 

 Chairman of the Board of Directors, and

 

 

 Chief Executive Officer

 

 

In accordance with the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

Date

 

Signature

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

February 20, 2009

 

/s/ James T. Huffman

 

Chairman of the Board

 

 

 

James T. Huffman

 

of Directors, Treasurer and

 

 

 

 

 

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

 

 

(Principal Executive

 

 

 

 

 

Officer)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

February 20, 2009

 

/s/ Alford B. Neely

 

Chief Financial Officer

 

 

 

Alford B. Neely

 

(Principal Financial and

 

 

 

 

 

Accounting Officer)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

February 20, 2009

 

/s/ Clarence H. Brown

 

Director

 

 

 

Clarence H. Brown

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

February 20, 2009

 

/s/ Oakley Hall

 

Director

 

 

 

Oakley Hall

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

February 20, 2009

 

/s/ W. Mark Meyer

 

Director

 

 

 

W. Mark Meyer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

February 20, 2009

 

/s/ John A. Rigas

 

Director

 

 

 

John A. Rigas

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

February 20, 2009

 

/s/ H. Leigh Severance

 

Director

 

 

 

H. Leigh Severance

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

February 20, 2009

 

/s/ William F. Skewes

 

Director

 

 

 

William F. Skewes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

February 20, 2009

 

/s/ Richard B. Stevens

 

Director

 

 

 

Richard B. Stevens

 

 

 

 

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