Biraj Borkhataria

Biraj Borkhataria asked if recent headlines about Chevron pursuing deals in various countries indicate a concerted step-up in business development efforts or largely reverse inquiries, and if portfolio diversification is a factor given increased concentration.

Answer

Chairman and CEO Mike Wirth stated that while business development is ongoing, Chevron is currently seeing a more attractive suite of opportunities, particularly in the Middle East, driven by more competitive fiscal terms. He affirmed Chevron's preference for large, long-life positions to apply technology and base business excellence, acknowledging the risk of over-concentration but believing Chevron is not, and is open to more exposure in the Middle East if competitive.

Biraj Borkhataria asked if the recent headlines about Chevron pursuing deals in various countries indicate a concerted step-up in efforts or are largely driven by reverse inquiries from resource-rich nations, and how this relates to portfolio diversification versus concentration.

Answer

Chairman and CEO Mike Wirth stated that while business development is ongoing, the current environment presents more attractive opportunities, particularly in the Middle East, due to more competitive fiscal terms. He affirmed Chevron's selective approach, preferring large, long-life positions for applying technology and base business excellence. He acknowledged the risk of over-concentration but believes Chevron is not, and is open to more exposure in the Middle East if competitive.

Biraj Borkhataria followed up on Chevron's exploration efforts, specifically regarding new country entries like Namibia, asking for updated thoughts on the basin's prospectivity and whether Chevron seeks to add more exposure through inorganic opportunities beyond the planned 10-well campaign.

Answer

Chairman and CEO Mike Wirth noted a portfolio of opportunities identified from seismic in Namibia. He mentioned drilling one well that didn't yield commercial hydrocarbons but provided valuable information, and a recent farm-in on other blocks in the Walvis Basin. Wirth stated they remain optimistic, clarifying that the 10-well permit is not a firm plan unless warranted. He added that Chevron continuously evaluates the market for inorganic opportunities and optimizes its portfolio.

Biraj Borkhataria followed up on Chevron's exploration efforts, specifically in Namibia, asking for updated thoughts on the basin's prospectivity and whether Chevron plans to increase its exposure through inorganic opportunities.

Answer

Chairman and CEO Mike Wirth discussed Chevron's portfolio of opportunities in Namibia, noting that one non-commercial well provided valuable information for evaluating other blocks. He mentioned a recent farm-in on additional Walvis Basin blocks and plans for a well in 2026 or 2027, applying concepts from the Orange Basin. He reiterated optimism for exploration in the region. Regarding inorganic opportunities, he stated that Chevron continuously evaluates the market and will continue to optimize its portfolio in Namibia and other locations.

Biraj Borkhataria of RBC Capital Markets inquired about Chevron's capital spending outlook for the Permian Basin in 2026-2027, given the recent achievement of the 1 million barrels per day production milestone and the stated intention to moderate spending.

Answer

Vice Chairman Mark Nelson confirmed that with peak CapEx past, 2025 spending will be at the lower end of the $4.5-$5 billion range due to efficiencies. He indicated that CapEx is expected to drop further as the focus shifts to free cash flow generation, with more details to be shared at the upcoming Investor Day.

Biraj Borkhataria questioned the decision to slow the share buyback program, asking how the $10-$20 billion guidance range reconciles with cash generation at lower oil prices and the need to maintain balance sheet strength.

Answer

CEO Mike Wirth reiterated the company's financial priorities, explaining the buyback range was always linked to commodity prices, with the lower end corresponding to a weaker outlook. CFO Eimear Bonner added that free cash flow growth remains resilient even at lower prices due to major project start-ups and cost reductions.

Biraj Borkhataria inquired about Chevron's fourth-quarter underlying cash flow, seeking clarification on one-off items to better understand the baseline for 2025 projections.

Answer

CFO Eimear Bonner explained that cash flow, excluding working capital, was impacted by approximately $2.5 billion in nonrecurring and accounting items. This included a $1.5 billion tax charge from a Canadian asset sale, a $500 million impact from special items not adjusted in cash flow, and another $500 million from affiliate distributions and unique commercial activity.

Biraj Borkhataria from RBC Capital Markets questioned the decision to sell Canadian long-cycle assets (AOSP) ahead of the Hess arbitration, especially when the strategy is to acquire similar high-quality resources.

Answer

CEO Mike Wirth explained that the Duvernay asset struggled to compete internally and the non-operated AOSP asset was considered non-core. A compelling, unsolicited offer for both assets presented an opportunity to transact at an attractive value, which hadn't been available previously. He emphasized that portfolio high-grading is an ongoing process.

Biraj Borkhataria asked about any signs of green shoots in the base chemical segment, specifically concerning supply or demand dynamics and competitor activity, from ExxonMobil's global perspective.

Answer

CEO Darren Woods noted robust and strong global demand for chemical products, but identified the challenge as coming from the supply side due to significant new capacity entering the market, which impacts margins. He explained that ExxonMobil's strategy focuses on cost efficiencies, high-value products, and leveraging feed advantages to differentiate itself from marginal suppliers. Woods emphasized driving down costs and utilizing centralized organizations to improve supply chain efficiency, allowing ExxonMobil to be more competitive and deliver better results than many peers, despite the challenging market dynamics.

Biraj Borkhataria inquired about any signs of 'green shoots' in the base chemical segment, specifically regarding supply or demand dynamics among competitors.

Answer

CEO Darren Woods noted robust demand for chemical products but acknowledged that margins are challenged by excess supply capacity. He explained that ExxonMobil differentiates itself through cost efficiencies, high-value product focus, and feed advantages, allowing it to be more competitive and deliver better results than many peers despite market dynamics.

Biraj Borkhataria asked for an update on the Mozambique onshore development project, including the security situation, the likelihood of a Q1 2026 Final Investment Decision (FID), and the status of government meetings.

Answer

Darren Woods, Chairman and CEO, stated that the Mozambique project is in a very good place with strong government relationships and a good project concept. He noted that the security situation has dramatically improved, with Total lifting its force majeure and ExxonMobil considering the same. He confirmed close collaboration with Total and a recent productive meeting with the Mozambican president, dismissing certain press reports.

Biraj Borkhataria inquired about the status of the Mozambique onshore development, specifically regarding reports of a Q1 2026 Final Investment Decision (FID) and a deferred meeting with the government. He asked about the security situation and the likelihood of an early 2026 FID.

Answer

Darren Woods, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, stated that the Mozambique project is in a very good place with strong government relationships and an improved security situation, noting Total's lifting of force majeure. He indicated the project is moving ahead and that recent press reports should not be fully relied upon, mentioning a productive meeting with the president.

Biraj Borkhataria of RBC Capital Markets asked for clarification on the corporate cost guidance, noting that the 2025 run rate appeared to be double the 2024 level and asking about the key drivers.

Answer

VP of IR & Treasurer Jim Chapman explained the increase is primarily driven by expenses from a large slate of new projects coming online and higher non-cash DD&A from the full-year impact of Pioneer and production growth. CEO Darren Woods added that cash operating expenses, excluding energy costs and taxes, remain below 2019 levels due to significant structural cost savings offsetting inflation and growth.

Biraj Borkhataria of RBC Capital Markets asked if the policy-dependent portion of CapEx might be delayed due to market uncertainty and also inquired about a potential asset swap in Mozambique.

Answer

Chairman and CEO Darren Woods stated that CapEx plans remain on track and he does not anticipate significant delays, noting the main hurdle for the Baytown project is customer offtake, not policy. CFO Kathy Michaels added that low-carbon investments, particularly in CCS, are progressing well. Regarding Mozambique, Woods declined to discuss specifics but affirmed the company's philosophy of securing appropriately sized stakes in large, complex projects where its expertise adds significant value.

Biraj Borkhataria asked for perspective on the chemicals market, including any signs of recovery, and also requested the company's reserve replacement ratio for the year.

Answer

CEO Darren Woods stated that while industry chemical margins are low due to oversupply, demand is strong, and ExxonMobil's portfolio is advantaged and resilient. He views the downcycle as a necessary period of industry rationalization. CFO Kathy Mikells added that new projects will further improve their cost position. Regarding the reserve replacement ratio, she said the company does not find the metric 'particularly informative.'

Biraj Borkhataria asked for perspective on the chemicals market, inquiring about any signs of recovery and also requesting the company's reserve replacement ratio.

Answer

CEO Darren Woods stated that while chemical demand is strong, the market is challenged by oversupply, and he views the downcycle as a necessary period for industry high-grading. He affirmed ExxonMobil's portfolio is advantaged and resilient. CFO Kathy Mikells added that new performance chemical projects will improve their position. Regarding the reserve replacement ratio, Mikells stated the company does not consider it a particularly informative metric.

Biraj Borkhataria asked for an update on LNG Canada phase two discussions, including government support and its inclusion in Carney's major project review. He also questioned whether the cancellation of the HEFA biofuels project was project-specific or related to Shell's view on end-market and policy risk, and how political risk is considered in investment decisions.

Answer

Shell CEO Wael Sawan stated that the LNG Canada joint venture is working towards a quality decision next year, noting strong federal and provincial government support. He emphasized the importance of supply source location and cost advantage given significant global LNG FIDs. CFO Sinead Gorman clarified that the HEFA biofuels decision was based on internal execution and market outlook, while affirming Shell's bullish view on prompt biofuels trading. She added that the investment committee rigorously assesses concentration risk, including policy and regulatory changes, across all projects.

Biraj Borkhataria inquired about discussions regarding LNG Canada Phase 2 and the cancellation of the HEFA biofuels project, specifically whether it was project-specific or related to market/policy risk.

Answer

Shell CEO Wael Sawan stated that the LNG Canada Phase 2 joint venture is framing a quality decision for next year, considering strong government support, future LNG demand dynamics, and Canada's transportation advantage to Asia. CFO Sinead Gorman explained the HEFA biofuels project cancellation was a value-driven decision after assessing internal execution and market outlook, emphasizing the need for stable policy and Shell's focus on prompt biofuels trading. She added that the investment committee considers concentration risk and policy risk across all projects.

Biraj Borkhataria asked for clarification on reports of ramp-up issues at LNG Canada and any potential impact on project timing. He also requested details on a one-off cash return from the NAM JV that affected CFFO and what to expect going forward.

Answer

CEO Wael Sawan stated he was 'super proud' of the LNG Canada team, confirming the ramp-up profile is in line with expectations and that the project is running 'steady and stable.' CFO Sinead Gorman clarified that the NAM JV cash movement had zero impact on free cash flow or net debt, as it was a working capital item. She noted that any future dividends are at the discretion of the NAM JV.

Biraj Borkhataria asked for clarification on reports of ramp-up issues at LNG Canada and inquired about the future expectation for cash returns from the Nam JV.

Answer

CEO Wael Sawan stated he was "very pleased" with the momentum at LNG Canada, asserting its ramp-up profile is in line with expectations. CFO Sinead Gorman clarified the Nam JV cash return had zero impact on free cash flow or net debt, as it was a working capital movement, and that future dividends are decided annually by the JV.

Biraj Borkhataria requested clarification on the cash impacts of the Pavilion acquisition and Singapore divestment, and asked if the Q1 run-rate for Upstream OpEx and DD&A is a good baseline post-Nigeria deconsolidation.

Answer

Executive Sinead Gorman explained the Pavilion deal involved a small capital outlay with a lease impact below $1 billion, with earnings impact expected in 2026. The Singapore divestment was the main component of the quarter's $600 million in proceeds. She confirmed that OpEx improvements from these deals are still to come and that the lower DD&A in Upstream reflects changes from Q4 reserve updates.

Biraj Borkhataria of RBC Capital Markets asked about Shell's confidence in the China chemicals expansion FID, given the market outlook and historical project returns. He also inquired about future plans in Namibia following the recent exploration write-off.

Answer

Executive Wael Sawan explained that the China chemicals project is supported by strong market demand, a low-cost delivery platform, and advanced technology, while noting all capital decisions are benchmarked against share buybacks. Regarding Namibia, he stated the write-off was due to a lack of a commercial pathway, though the resource exists and the situation is still being monitored.

Biraj Borkhataria from RBC Capital Markets questioned the full-year CapEx guidance, noting that first-half spending was low. He also asked about the Nature Energy biogas business, its current profitability, and Shell's long-term conviction in the sector's returns.

Answer

CEO Wael Sawan affirmed his strong belief in the long-term potential of biogas and biofuels, explaining that Nature Energy is a platform for the late 2020s and 2030s, despite current margin pressures from lower gas and higher feedstock prices. CFO Sinead Gorman stated that the full-year CapEx guidance of $22-$24 billion remains intact, noting a similar spending pattern last year with significant payments expected in the second half.

Biraj Borkhataria inquired about the status of TotalEnergies' $2 billion divestment target for the year, specifically asking if the SPDCV sale in Nigeria was included, and sought an update on any policy responses catalyzed by the letter from European CEOs regarding competitiveness.

Answer

Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO, detailed the $2 billion divestment target, including Bunga in Nigeria, Norway assets, and renewable assets in the U.S. and Greece, confirming the SPDCV divestment was not included as it was not closed and is now targeted for next year. He noted that European leaders are listening to the competitiveness letter, viewing it as a 'wake-up call' regarding legislation that could impact security of supply.

Biraj Borkhataria inquired about the composition of the $2 billion divestment target for the year, specifically whether the SPDCV sale in Nigeria was included, and sought an update on the policy response to the European competitiveness letter signed by CEOs.

Answer

Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO, specified that the $2 billion divestment target includes Bunga (Nigeria), Norway, U.S. renewables, and Greece renewables, but *does not* include the SPDCV divestment, which is now planned for next year. He noted that European leaders are listening to the competitiveness letter, viewing it as a 'wake-up call' regarding legislation impacting competitiveness and security of supply.

Biraj Borkhataria from RBC Capital Markets asked about the increasing quarterly volatility in working capital and whether the slightly lower Q2 buyback of €1.7 billion, versus the guided €2 billion, was a conscious decision.

Answer

Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman & CEO, confirmed the lower buyback amount was simply a matter of timing and liquidity, not a change in policy, and the company would catch up. On working capital, he noted that the H1 build was comparable to the prior year and largely driven by the seasonality of the growing B2C Gas and Power business. He expects most of the H1 build to be released in the second half of the year.

Biraj Borkhataria sought clarification on the calculation of the "normalized gearing" figure of 11% and requested an update on the status of the Mozambique LNG project.

Answer

CEO Patrick Pouyanné explained the normalized gearing calculation, stating that of the $4.4 billion working capital build, $3.4 billion was seasonal, and removing this impact brings the gearing to 11%. On Mozambique, he delivered positive news, confirming that project financing is back on track following a U.S. EXIM decision. He noted the industrial area is secure and the company is working to relaunch the project by mid-year.

Biraj Borkhataria of RBC Capital Markets inquired about the strategic rationale for the OMV Malaysia deal, its potential for LNG integration, and asked for an update on the Mozambique LNG project's costs and timeline.

Answer

CEO Patrick Pouyanné explained the Malaysia deal provides access to LNG netback-priced gas and serves as an anchor for future growth, with discussions underway with partners like Petronas. On Mozambique, he confirmed that cost issues with contractors related to the 'frozen period' have been settled. The project's restart is pending the outcome of upcoming presidential elections and regrouping of financiers, with a decision expected by year-end.

Biraj Borkhataria of RBC Capital Markets asked about the potential impact of EU sanctions on Russian LNG on the company's Yamal offtake, and requested an update on the green hydrogen tender for its refineries.

Answer

CEO Patrick Pouyanné stated that sanctions on Yamal LNG would be a net positive for TotalEnergies' global portfolio due to a likely rise in LNG prices, as cash flow from Yamal is limited. He confirmed they would declare force majeure if necessary. On hydrogen, he reported receiving over 50 offers for the tender and is optimistic about securing the targeted 500,000 tonnes per year, with an update expected by year-end.

Biraj Borkhataria from RBC Capital Markets asked for more detail on the factors driving the change in MMP guidance from a range to a single figure of $400 million. He also questioned why Equinor did not consider a board seat in Ørsted earlier, specifically at the Capital Markets Update.

Answer

Torgrim Reitan, CFO, explained that the MMP guidance change reflects market normalization in European gas, reduced global volatility, and earlier divestment of gas transportation assets. He noted the market is harder for trading, but sees asymmetrical upside. For Ørsted, Mr. Reitan stated that the current situation made it important to signal support, and Equinor believes its long-term industrial perspective and project development competencies can benefit Ørsted.

Biraj Borkhataria inquired about the updated MMP guidance, asking for more detail on the changing market factors and the shift from a range to a single figure. He also followed up on the Ørsted investment, questioning why a board seat wasn't initially considered and if Equinor's investment thesis had changed.

Answer

CFO Torgrim Reitan clarified the MMP guidance change to around $400 million quarterly, noting asymmetrical risk with more upside. He attributed the change to normalized gas markets in Europe, increased political influence on global markets making trading harder, and the earlier divestment of gas transportation assets (a $40 million quarterly impact). He added that the single figure allows for opportunistic overshooting, and this trend is industry-wide. For Ørsted, he stated Equinor believes it can offer a long-term industrial owner perspective, leveraging its experience in managing cycles, project development, and risk management.

Biraj Borkhataria asked how the halt of the Empire Wind project might alter Equinor's strategy regarding its concentrated geographical exposure, particularly in the U.S., and sought clarification on the start-up and ramp-up timeline for the Bacalhau project in Brazil.

Answer

Torgrim Reitan, an Equinor executive, described the Empire Wind situation as "extraordinary and unprecedented" but affirmed the U.S. remains a core country. He defended the company's concentrated portfolio strategy, citing benefits from scale and synergies in key regions. For the Bacalhau project, he confirmed a planned 2025 start-up with commissioning and hookup activities proceeding as planned.

Biraj Borkhataria questioned how the recent Orsted investment impacts Equinor's 12-16 gigawatt renewables target, given rising development costs, and asked for an update on the project financing timeline for Empire Wind.

Answer

Executive Torgrim Reitan explained the Orsted acquisition is a countercyclical move to access offshore wind assets more affordably than building from scratch. He stressed that the 12-16 GW figure is a guiding ambition where "value creation triumphs volumes." For Empire Wind, he noted that financial close is expected before year-end, which will de-risk the asset.

Biraj Borkhataria from RBC Capital Markets asked for clarity on the U.K.'s fiscal regime following the change in government, particularly regarding the Rosebank project sale, and requested an update on the project financing for Empire Wind.

Answer

Executive Torgrim Reitan stated that Equinor expects any changes to the U.K. tax system to be balanced and business-friendly, based on the new government's manifesto. For Empire Wind, he confirmed the project is being de-risked, with the price contract increased to $155/MWh and project financing progressing toward a financial close by year-end. He also noted a successful farm-down would lower reported CapEx.

Biraj Borkhataria of RBC Capital Markets questioned the rationale for the low 3% discount rate used in the Empire Wind impairment test and asked if the recent working capital release signals a new structural level for the company.

Answer

EVP & CFO Torgrim Reitan explained that the 3% discount rate is an unlevered, real, after-tax rate, justified by the project's fixed 25-year revenue profile, which differs from the 5.5% rate for oil and gas. He clarified that the working capital reduction was driven by upstream segment movements, not trading, and that while trading volatility has changed due to political factors, the capital level for trading has remained stable.

Biraj Borkhataria of RBC Capital Markets inquired about the rationale behind the 3% discount rate for the Empire Wind impairment and whether the recent working capital release signals a new structural level.

Answer

EVP & CFO Torgrim Reitan clarified that the 3% discount rate is an unlevered, real, after-tax figure, justified by the project's fixed 25-year revenue profile, contrasting with the 5.5% rate for oil and gas. He also noted the working capital change was driven by upstream segments, not trading, and that while political volatility has reduced risk-taking in trading, the capital level has remained stable.

Biraj Borkhataria of RBC Capital Markets asked if the newly announced portfolio review would start from a 'blank sheet of paper' and how it relates to the ongoing Castrol review. He also questioned the rising lease liability on the balance sheet.

Answer

CEO Murray Auchincloss clarified the review starts from the current portfolio to prioritize value and accelerate strategy, and it does not alter the ongoing divestment program, including the Castrol process. CFO Kate Thomson explained the lease liability increase was deliberately incurred to drive value, citing specific assets like the FLNG vessel in Mauritania and Senegal and the BP Bioenergy acquisition.

Biraj Borkhataria of RBC Capital Markets asked if the newly announced portfolio review would start from a 'blank sheet of paper' and how it relates to the Castrol transaction. He also questioned the recent increase in BP's lease liability.

Answer

CEO Murray Auchincloss clarified the review builds on the current strategy to accelerate value delivery and does not change the ongoing Castrol process or divestment program. CFO Kate Thomson explained the ~$4 billion year-on-year rise in lease liability was a deliberate result of value-driving activities, primarily the accounting for the FLNG vessel in Mauritania/Senegal and the BP Bioenergy acquisition.

Biraj Borkhataria of RBC Capital Markets asked for clarification on the 'Other businesses & corporate' (OB&C) line item. He noted that while higher interest income from pre-issued hybrids should lower the charge, the full-year guidance of $1 billion remained unchanged, and he sought to understand why.

Answer

Executive Katherine Thomson acknowledged that the non-controlling interest (NCI) charge includes hybrid costs and that the offsetting interest income is reported within OB&C. However, she explained that the primary driver of volatility in the OB&C line is foreign exchange (FX) movements, particularly on hybrid swaps. She stated that while she cannot predict FX, the underlying spending and income expectations currently support the existing guidance, which will be reviewed again in the second quarter.

Biraj Borkhataria of RBC Capital Markets asked about the impact of a more capital-light approach and JVs on cost reduction targets, and later inquired about any engagement with activist investor Elliott.

Answer

CFO Katherine Thomson addressed the cost question, stating that while portfolio focusing contributes to cost savings, specifics on capital would be detailed at the upcoming Capital Markets Day. CEO Murray Auchincloss declined to comment on the Elliott matter, calling it market speculation and stating the company does not comment on such matters.

Biraj Borkhataria of RBC Capital Markets asked for clarification on the cash adjustment for the asset sale to Vitol, given the development CapEx, and inquired about CEO Claudio Descalzi's succession plans and potential future role after 2026.

Answer

CFO Francesco Gattei confirmed the deal's consideration will be adjusted at closing for production cashed in and investments made. CEO Claudio Descalzi addressed succession by emphasizing the strength and competence of the entire management team, stating that Eni's strategy is built by the team and the company has a strong sense of belonging and culture, ensuring a smooth transition.

Biraj Borkhataria from RBC asked what price signals would prompt more significant adjustments to Eni's capital program, given the strong balance sheet but deteriorating macro environment. He also questioned the feasibility of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) mandates, given airline concerns over cost and availability.

Answer

Executive Francesco Gattei explained that Eni has multiple levers to pull before making material changes, highlighting a EUR 2 billion cash flow enhancement plan. He stated there is no rigid price trigger for major shifts. Executive Stefano Ballista asserted that the 2% SAF mandate is mandatory and unlikely to be relaxed, noting that production capacity is in place and the obligation falls on fuel suppliers, not airlines.

Biraj Borkhataria asked about Eni's LNG growth strategy, particularly regarding non-integrated offtake deals, and questioned the capital allocation strategy if balance sheet gearing falls to single digits.

Answer

Executive Guido Brusco stated that Eni's LNG strategy is focused on higher-value integrated projects like those in Congo and Indonesia, driven by organic exploration success, though small complementary deals aren't ruled out. CFO Francesco Gattei addressed capital allocation, stating that while gearing is moving quickly towards 15%, the 10-20% range remains their 'area of comfort,' balancing a strong balance sheet with the need to fund high-return investment opportunities.

Biraj Borkhataria from Royal Bank of Canada asked for a broader perspective on Eni's activities in Egypt, noting the receivable balance was stable, and questioned how farm-downs like the Plenitude deal are accounted for within the company's divestment targets.

Answer

Executive Francesco Gattei clarified that cash received from partners in satellite entities like Plenitude is fully consolidated and directly contributes to divestment targets by reducing the company's net cash imbalance. Guido Brusco, Head of Natural Resources, added that while exploration in Egypt has slowed slightly, overall operations are proceeding as planned with a focus on in-field activities and production optimization.