Question · Q3 2025
Kalei Akamai asked for a definition of Diamondback Energy's maintenance capital at $925 million per quarter, including the associated maintenance oil production level and if it encompasses all tradable non-DNC spend. She also requested an update on the DUC backlog at year-end and the company's intentions for activating it, especially with continuous pumping, and if additional frac crews would be needed.
Answer
Kaes Van't Hof (CEO, Diamondback Energy) stated the Q4 CapEx range ($875M-$975M) multiplied by four is a good estimate for holding the new baseline of 510,000 bbl/day (505,000 bbl/day in Q1 2026) flat, including total DC&E plus non-DC&E CapEx, highlighting improved capital efficiency. He noted that with oil prices and efficiencies, they drilled more wells than expected, maintaining a strong DUC backlog as a structural advantage. He added that continuous pumping uses one less crew (half to one less annually) and that pipe is being put in the ground almost as cheaply as COVID-era days.