Michael Schwartz's questions to Berry Corporation (Bry) (BRY) leadership • Q3 2024
Question
Michael Schwartz asked for an overview of the company's priorities for cash utilization following the new term loan and dividend adjustment. He also requested an update on the status of Conditional Use Permits (CUP) and multi-based central permits in California, and their expected impact in 2025.
Answer
CFO Michael Helm stated that the new capital allocation approach prioritizes deleveraging the balance sheet, maintaining a sustainable dividend more in line with peers, and funding high-return development opportunities. CEO Fernando Araujo added that the 2025 plan is not reliant on new CUPs, as they have sufficient inventory of sidetracks and other permitted wells to maintain flat production. He noted that CUPs remain a longer-term option, approximately 18 months away.