Energy

CNOOC Profits Jump (CEO, SNP)

Chinese oil producer CNOOC Ltd. (NYSE:CEO) reported annual profits for 2008 of $6.5 billion, up 42% from 2007. EPS was about $0.15. Production was up 14%, to 195.4 million barrels of oil equivalent.  CNOOC noted that it’s all-in per barrel costs for 2008 equaled $19.78, and that the company’s average selling price for crude was $89.39/barrel.

The company’s cost reflect the cost advantages of drilling in the shallow (less than 500 feet) of waters of China’s Bohai Bay.

The company noted that its reserves replacement ratio fell to 60% in 2008, but that its “organic” replacement ratio was 111%. CNOOC has benefitted from new discoveries this year [https://a673b.bigscoots-temp.com/2009/03/19/chinese-expand-oil-drilling-ceo-cop/], but how these replacement ratio numbers work out is somewhat mysterious.

Still, compared to rival Chinese oil company China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation (NYSE:SNP), or Sinopec, CNOOC’s annual earnings look good. CNOOC does no refining, while Sinopec is China’s largest refiner. That’s what made the difference. Refining in China is a losing game because the government sets the retail price. E&P companies, like CNOOC, avoid that.

CNOOC shares are off about 52% from a 52-week high of $206.79. There’s been no pre-open action on the shares this morning.

Paul Ausick
March 31, 2009

Want to Retire Early? Start Here (Sponsor)

Want retirement to come a few years earlier than you’d planned? Or are you ready to retire now, but want an extra set of eyes on your finances?

Now you can speak with up to 3 financial experts in your area for FREE. By simply clicking here you can begin to match with financial professionals who can help you build your plan to retire early. And the best part? The first conversation with them is free.

Click here to match with up to 3 financial pros who would be excited to help you make financial decisions.

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us?
Contact the 24/7 Wall St. editorial team.