Form 10-Q
Table of Contents

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 


FORM 10-Q

 


 

x Quarterly Report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2007

 

¨ Transition Report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the transition period from              to             

Commission File No. 1-13726

 


Chesapeake Energy Corporation

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Oklahoma   73-1395733

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

6100 North Western Avenue

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

  73118
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)

(405) 848-8000

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code

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.    Yes  x    No  ¨

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 Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer  x            Accelerated filer  ¨            Non-accelerated filer  ¨

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

As of May 4, 2007, there were 460,736,173 shares of our $0.01 par value common stock outstanding.

 



Table of Contents

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

INDEX TO FORM 10-Q FOR THE QUARTER ENDED MARCH 31, 2007

 

          Page

PART I.

     

Financial Information

  

Item 1.

  

Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited):

  
  

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006

   3
  

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2007 and 2006

   5
  

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2007 and 2006

   6
  

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2007 and 2006

   8
  

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2007 and 2006

   9
  

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

   10

Item 2.

  

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

   25

Item 3.

  

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

   35

Item 4.

  

Controls and Procedures

   41

PART II.

     

Other Information

  

Item 1.    

  

Legal Proceedings

   42

Item 1A.

  

Risk Factors

   42

Item 2.

  

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

   42

Item 3.

  

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

   42

Item 4.

  

Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

   42

Item 5.

  

Other Information

   42

Item 6.

  

Exhibits

   43

 

2


Table of Contents

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Unaudited)

 

    

March 31,

2007

   

December 31,

2006

 
     ($ in millions)  
ASSETS     

CURRENT ASSETS:

    

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 4     $ 3  

Accounts receivable

     890       845  

Deferred income taxes

     110       —    

Short-term derivative instruments

     130       225  

Inventory and other

     89       81  
                

Total Current Assets

     1,223       1,154  
                

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT:

    

Oil and natural gas properties, at cost based on full-cost accounting:

    

Evaluated oil and natural gas properties

     23,598       21,949  

Unevaluated properties

     3,889       3,797  

Less: accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization of oil and natural gas properties

     (5,682 )     (5,292 )
                

Total oil and natural gas properties, at cost based on full-cost accounting

     21,805       20,454  

Other property and equipment:

    

Natural gas gathering systems

     648       552  

Drilling rigs

     315       301  

Buildings and land

     459       429  

Natural gas compressors

     150       127  

Other

     253       241  

Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization of other property and equipment

     (232 )     (200 )
                

Total Property and Equipment

     23,398       21,904  
                

OTHER ASSETS:

    

Investments

     704       699  

Long-term derivative instruments

     82       339  

Other assets

     325       321  
                

Total Other Assets

     1,111       1,359  
                

TOTAL ASSETS

   $ 25,732     $ 24,417  
                

 

3


Table of Contents

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS – (Continued)

(Unaudited)

 

    

March 31,

2007

   

December 31,

2006

 
     ($ in millions)  
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY     

CURRENT LIABILITIES:

    

Accounts payable

   $ 895     $ 860  

Accrued liabilities

     463       419  

Short-term derivative instruments

     390       112  

Revenues and royalties due others

     323       318  

Accrued interest

     109       142  

Deferred income taxes

     —         39  
                

Total Current Liabilities

     2,180       1,890  
                

LONG-TERM LIABILITIES:

    

Long-term debt, net

     8,371       7,376  

Deferred income tax liability

     3,373       3,317  

Asset retirement obligation

     201       193  

Long-term derivative instruments

     273       160  

Revenues and royalties due others

     35       30  

Other liabilities

     222       200  
                

Total Long-Term Liabilities

     12,475       11,276  
                

CONTINGENCIES AND COMMITMENTS (Note 3)

    

STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:

    

Preferred Stock, $.01 par value, 20,000,000 shares authorized:

    

4.125% cumulative convertible preferred stock, 3,062 and 3,065 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006, respectively, entitled in liquidation to $3 million

     3       3  

5.00% cumulative convertible preferred stock (series 2005), 4,600,000 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006, entitled in liquidation to $460 million

     460       460  

4.50% cumulative convertible preferred stock, 3,450,000 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006, entitled in liquidation to $345 million

     345       345  

5.00% cumulative convertible preferred stock (series 2005B), 5,750,000 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006, entitled in liquidation to $575 million

     575       575  

6.25% mandatory convertible preferred stock, 2,300,000 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006, respectively, entitled in liquidation to $575 million

     575       575  

Common Stock, $.01 par value, 750,000,000 shares authorized, 461,385,659 and 458,600,789 shares issued at March 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006, respectively

     5       5  

Paid-in capital

     5,895       5,873  

Retained earnings

     3,114       2,913  

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax of ($73) million and ($319) million, respectively

     123       528  

Less: treasury stock, at cost; 906,557 and 1,167,007 common shares as of March 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006, respectively

     (18 )     (26 )
                

Total Stockholders’ Equity

     11,077       11,251  
                

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

   $ 25,732     $ 24,417  
                

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

4


Table of Contents

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(Unaudited)

 

     Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
     2007     2006  
     ($ in millions
except per share data)
 

REVENUES:

    

Oil and natural gas sales

   $ 1,125     $ 1,511  

Oil and natural gas marketing sales

     422       404  

Service operations revenue

     33       29  
                

Total Revenues

     1,580       1,944  
                

OPERATING COSTS:

    

Production expenses

     142       119  

Production taxes

     42       55  

General and administrative expenses

     52       29  

Oil and natural gas marketing expenses

     407       391  

Service operations expense

     22       14  

Oil and natural gas depreciation, depletion and amortization

     393       305  

Depreciation and amortization of other assets

     36       24  

Employee retirement expense

     —         55  
                

Total Operating Costs

     1,094       992  
                

INCOME FROM OPERATIONS

     486       952  
                

OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):

    

Interest and other income

     9       10  

Interest expense

     (79 )     (73 )

Gain on sale of investment

     —         117  
                

Total Other Income (Expense)

     (70 )     54  
                

INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES

     416       1,006  

INCOME TAX EXPENSE:

    

Current

     —         —    

Deferred

     158       382  
                

Total Income Tax Expense

     158       382  
                

NET INCOME

     258       624  

PREFERRED STOCK DIVIDENDS

     (26 )     (19 )

LOSS ON CONVERSION/EXCHANGE OF PREFERRED STOCK

     —         (1 )
                

NET INCOME AVAILABLE TO COMMON SHAREHOLDERS

   $ 232     $ 604  
                

EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE:

    

Basic

   $ 0.51     $ 1.64  

Assuming dilution

   $ 0.50     $ 1.44  

CASH DIVIDEND DECLARED PER COMMON SHARE

   $ 0.06     $ 0.05  

WEIGHTED AVERAGE COMMON AND COMMON EQUIVALENT SHARES OUTSTANDING (in millions):

    

Basic

     451       369  

Assuming dilution

     516       431  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

5


Table of Contents

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited)

 

     Three Months
Ended March 31,
 
     2007     2006  
     ($ in millions)  

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

    

NET INCOME

   $ 258     $ 624  

ADJUSTMENTS TO RECONCILE NET INCOME TO CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

    

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

     425       326  

Deferred income taxes

     153       382  

Unrealized (gains) losses on derivatives

     311       (197 )

Amortization of loan costs and bond discount

     6       5  

Realized (gains) losses on financing derivatives

     (42 )     (27 )

Stock-based compensation

     14       59  

Gain on sale of investment in Pioneer Drilling Company

     —         (117 )

Income from equity investments

     (6 )     (5 )

Other

     5       (4 )

Change in assets and liabilities

     (147 )     (79 )
                

Cash provided by operating activities

     977       967  
                

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

    

Acquisitions of oil and natural gas companies, proved and unproved properties, net of cash acquired

     (419 )     (958 )

Exploration and development of oil and natural gas properties

     (1,251 )     (799 )

Additions to other fixed assets

     (177 )     (95 )

Additions to drilling rig equipment

     (35 )     (193 )

Additions to investments

     (17 )     (29 )

Acquisition of trucking company, net of cash acquired

     —         (45 )

Proceeds from sale of investment in Pioneer Drilling Company

     —         159  

Proceeds from sale of drilling rigs and equipment

     30       —    

Deposits for acquisitions

     (7 )     —    

Sale of non-oil and natural gas assets

     7       —    
                

Cash used in investing activities

     (1,869 )     (1,960 )
                

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

    

Proceeds from long-term borrowings

     1,833       2,202  

Payments on long-term borrowings

     (858 )     (1,830 )

Proceeds from issuance of senior notes, net of offering costs

     —         487  

Cash paid for common stock dividends

     (27 )     (18 )

Cash paid for preferred stock dividends

     (26 )     (19 )

Derivative settlements

     (22 )     (30 )

Net increase (decrease) in outstanding payments in excess of cash balance

     (8 )     72  

Cash received from exercise of stock options

     3       39  

Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation

     4       77  

Other financing costs

     (6 )     (9 )
                

Cash provided by financing activities

     893       971  
                

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     1       (22 )

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period

     3       60  
                

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period

   $ 4     $ 38  
                

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

6


Table of Contents

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS – (Continued)

(Unaudited)

 

    

Three Months Ended

March 31,

     2007    2006
     ($ in millions)

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION OF CASH PAYMENTS FOR:

     

Interest, net of capitalized interest

   $ 104    $ 113

Income taxes, net of refunds received

   $ 5    $ —  

SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULE OF NON-CASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

As of March 31, 2007 and 2006, dividends payable on our common and preferred stock were $53 million and $38 million, respectively.

For the three months ended March 31, 2007 and 2006, oil and natural gas properties were adjusted by $7 million and $81 million, respectively, for net income tax liabilities related to acquisitions.

For the three months ended March 31, 2007 and 2006, accrued exploration and development costs of $22 million and $14 million, respectively, were recorded as additions to oil and natural gas properties.

We recorded non-cash asset additions to net oil and natural gas properties of $5 million and $7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively, for asset retirement obligations.

For the three months ended March 31, 2007, a holder of our 4.125% cumulative convertible preferred stock converted 3 shares into 180 shares of common stock and for the three months ended March 31, 2006, holders of the 4.125% preferred stock exchanged 2,750 shares for 172,594 shares of common stock in privately negotiated exchanges.

For the three months ended March 31, 2006, holders of our 5.0% (Series 2003) cumulative convertible preferred stock exchanged 183,273 shares for 1,140,223 shares of common stock in privately negotiated exchanges.

For the three months ended March 31, 2006, holders of our 6.0% cumulative convertible preferred stock converted 99,310 shares into 482,694 shares of common stock.

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

7


Table of Contents

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(Unaudited)

 

     Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
     2007     2006  
     ($ in millions)  

PREFERRED STOCK:

    

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 1,958     $ 1,577  

Exchange of common stock for 3 and 2,750 shares of 4.125% preferred stock

     —         (3 )

Exchange of common stock for 0 and 183,273 shares of 5.00% preferred stock (Series 2003)

     —         (18 )

Exchange of common stock for 0 and 99,310 shares of 6.00% preferred stock

     —         (5 )
                

Balance, end of period

     1,958       1,551  
                

COMMON STOCK:

    

Balance, beginning of period

     5       4  

Exchange of 180 and 1,795,511 shares of common stock for preferred stock

     —         —    
                

Balance, end of period

     5       4  
                

PAID-IN CAPITAL:

    

Balance, beginning of period

     5,873       3,803  

Exchange of 180 and 1,795,511 shares of common stock for preferred stock

     —         26  

Equity-based compensation

     15       59  

Adoption of SFAS 123(R)

     —         (89 )

Exercise of stock options

     3       40  

Tax benefit from exercise of stock options and restricted stock

     4       77  
                

Balance, end of period

     5,895       3,916  
                

RETAINED EARNINGS:

    

Balance, beginning of period

     2,913       1,101  

Net income

     258       624  

Dividends on common stock

     (27 )     (19 )

Dividends on preferred stock

     (26 )     (19 )

Adoption of FIN 48

     (4 )     —    
                

Balance, end of period

     3,114       1,687  
                

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS):

    

Balance, beginning of period

     528       (195 )

Hedging activity

     (407 )     477  

Marketable securities activity

     2       (51 )
                

Balance, end of period

     123       231  
                

TREASURY STOCK - COMMON:

    

Balance, beginning of period

     (26 )     (26 )

Release of 260,447 and 701 shares for company benefit plans

     8       —    
                

Balance, end of period

     (18 )     (26 )
                

TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

   $ 11,077     $ 7,363  
                

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

8


Table of Contents

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(Unaudited)

 

     Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
     2007     2006  
     ($ in millions)  

Net income

   $ 258     $ 624  

Other comprehensive income, net of income tax:

    

Change in fair value of derivative instruments, net of income taxes of ($132) million and $409 million

     (213 )     667  

Reclassification of (gain) loss on settled contracts, net of income taxes of ($138) million and ($79) million

     (228 )     (129 )

Ineffective portion of derivatives qualifying for cash flow hedge accounting, net of income taxes of $20 million and ($38) million

     34       (62 )

Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities, net of income taxes of $1 million and $14 million

     2       22  

Reclassification of gain on sales of investments, net of income taxes of $0 and ($45) million

     —         (73 )
                

Comprehensive income (loss)

   $ (147 )   $ 1,049  
                

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

9


Table of Contents

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited)

1. Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Principles of Consolidation

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of Chesapeake Energy Corporation and its subsidiaries have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q as prescribed by the Securities and Exchange Commission. Chesapeake’s 2006 Annual Report on Form 10-K includes certain definitions and a summary of significant accounting policies and should be read in conjunction with this Form 10-Q. All material adjustments (consisting solely of normal recurring adjustments) which, in the opinion of management, are necessary for a fair statement of the results for the interim periods have been reflected. The results for the three months ended March 31, 2007 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year. This Form 10-Q relates to the three months ended March 31, 2007 (the “Current Quarter”) and the three months ended March 31, 2006 (the “Prior Quarter”).

Stock-Based Compensation

To the extent compensation cost relates to employees directly involved in oil and natural gas exploration and development activities, such amounts are capitalized to oil and natural gas properties. Amounts not capitalized to oil and natural gas properties are recognized as general and administrative expenses, production expenses or oil and natural gas marketing expenses. We recorded the following stock-based compensation during the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter ($ in millions):

 

     Three Months Ended
March 31,
     2007    2006

Production expenses

   $ 3    $ 1

General and administrative expenses

     10      6

Oil and natural gas marketing expense

     1      —  

Employee retirement expense

     —        52

Oil and natural gas properties

     9      5
             

Total

   $ 23    $ 64
             

Restricted Stock. Chesapeake began issuing shares of restricted common stock to employees in January 2004 and to non-employee directors in July 2005. The fair value of the awards issued is determined based on the fair market value of the shares on the date of grant. This value is amortized over the vesting period, which is four years from the date of grant for employees and three years for non-employee directors.

A summary of the status of the unvested shares of restricted stock as of March 31, 2007, and changes during the Current Quarter, is presented below:

 

     Number of
Unvested
Restricted Shares
    Weighted Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value

Unvested shares as of January 1, 2007

   7,074,761     $ 25.85

Granted

   2,594,045     $ 27.92

Vested

   (909,436 )   $ 22.22

Forfeited

   (103,089 )   $ 27.26
        

Unvested shares as of March 31, 2007

   8,656,281     $ 26.83
        

The aggregate intrinsic value of restricted stock vested during the Current Quarter was approximately $25 million.

As of March 31, 2007, there was $209 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested restricted stock. The cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.91 years.

 

10


Table of Contents

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)

 

The vesting of certain restricted stock grants results in state and federal income tax benefits related to the difference between the market price of the common stock at the date of vesting and the date of grant. During the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, we recognized excess tax benefits related to restricted stock of $1 million and $3 million, respectively, which were recorded as adjustments to additional paid-in capital and deferred income taxes with respect to such benefits.

Stock Options. We granted stock options in previous years under several stock compensation plans. Outstanding options expire ten years from the date of grant and become exercisable over a four-year period.

The following table provides information related to stock option activity during the Current Quarter:

 

     Number of
Shares
Underlying
Options
    Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price Per
Share
   Weighted
Average
Contract
Life in Years
   Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value(a)
($ in millions)

Outstanding at January 1, 2007

   6,605,703     $ 7.43    5.36    $ 143

Exercised

   (538,038 )   $ 6.30       $ 13

Forfeited

   (6,736 )   $ 10.65      
              

Outstanding at March 31, 2007

   6,060,929     $ 7.52    5.14    $ 142
              

Exercisable at March 31, 2007

   5,419,265     $ 7.20    5.00    $ 128
              

(a) The intrinsic value of a stock option is the amount by which the current market value or the market value upon exercise of the underlying stock exceeds the exercise price of the option.

As of March 31, 2007, there was $1 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested stock options. The cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 100 days.

During the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, we recognized excess tax benefits related to stock options of $3 million and $74 million, respectively, which were recorded as adjustments to additional paid-in capital and deferred income taxes with respect to such benefits.

Income Taxes

In June 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued FASB Interpretation (FIN) No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109. FIN 48 provides guidance for recognizing and measuring uncertain tax positions, as defined in SFAS 109, Accounting for Income Taxes. FIN 48 prescribes a threshold condition that a tax position must meet for any of the benefit of the uncertain tax position to be recognized in the financial statements. Guidance is also provided regarding de-recognition, classification and disclosure of these uncertain tax positions. FIN 48 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2006.

Chesapeake adopted the provisions of FIN 48 on January 1, 2007. As a result of the implementation of FIN 48, Chesapeake recognized a $7 million liability for accrued interest associated with uncertain tax positions which was accounted for as a reduction to the January 1, 2007 balance of retained earnings, net of tax. At the date of adoption, we had approximately $142 million of alternative minimum tax liabilities associated with uncertain tax positions. These AMT liabilities can be utilized as credits against future regular tax liabilities. The uncertain tax positions identified would not have a material effect on the effective tax rate. At March 31, 2007, we had a liability of $9 million for interest related to these same uncertain tax positions. Chesapeake recognizes interest related to uncertain tax positions in interest expense. Penalties, if any, related to uncertain tax positions would be recorded in other expenses.

Chesapeake files income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various state and local jurisdictions. With few exceptions, Chesapeake is no longer subject to the U.S. federal, state and local income tax examinations by tax authorities for years prior to 2003. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) commenced an examination of Chesapeake’s U.S. income tax returns for 2003 and 2004 in 2006 that is anticipated to be completed by early 2008. As of March 31, 2007, the IRS has proposed a limited number of adjustments. We are currently evaluating the

 

11


Table of Contents

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)

 

proposed adjustments, but we do not anticipate that the adjustments would result in a material change to our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Critical Accounting Policies

We consider accounting policies related to hedging, oil and natural gas properties, income taxes and business combinations to be critical policies. These policies are summarized in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006.

2. Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities

Oil and Natural Gas Hedging Activities

Our results of operations and operating cash flows are impacted by changes in market prices for oil and natural gas. To mitigate a portion of the exposure to adverse market changes, we have entered into various derivative instruments. As of March 31, 2007, our oil and natural gas derivative instruments were comprised of swaps, cap-swaps, basis protection swaps, call options, collars and three-way collars. These instruments allow us to predict with greater certainty the effective oil and natural gas prices to be received for our hedged production. Although derivatives often fail to achieve 100% effectiveness for accounting purposes, we believe our derivative instruments continue to be highly effective in achieving the risk management objectives for which they were intended.

 

   

For swap instruments, Chesapeake receives a fixed price for the hedged commodity and pays a floating market price to the counterparty. The fixed-price payment and the floating-price payment are netted, resulting in a net amount due to or from the counterparty.

 

   

For cap-swaps, Chesapeake receives a fixed price and pays a floating market price. The fixed price received by Chesapeake includes a premium in exchange for a “cap” limiting the counterparty’s exposure. In other words, there is no limit to Chesapeake’s exposure but there is a limit to the downside exposure of the counterparty.

 

   

Basis protection swaps are arrangements that guarantee a price differential for oil or natural gas from a specified delivery point. For Mid-Continent basis protection swaps, which have negative differentials to NYMEX, Chesapeake receives a payment from the counterparty if the price differential is greater than the stated terms of the contract and pays the counterparty if the price differential is less than the stated terms of the contract. For Appalachian Basin basis protection swaps, which have positive differentials to NYMEX, Chesapeake receives a payment from the counterparty if the price differential is less than the stated terms of the contract and pays the counterparty if the price differential is greater than the stated terms of the contract.

 

   

For call options, Chesapeake receives a premium from the counterparty in exchange for the sale of a call option. If the market price exceeds the fixed price of the call option, Chesapeake pays the counterparty such excess. If the market price settles below the fixed price of the call option, no payment is due from Chesapeake.

 

   

Collars contain a fixed floor price (put) and ceiling price (call). If the market price exceeds the call strike price or falls below the put strike price, Chesapeake receives the fixed price and pays the market price. If the market price is between the call and the put strike price, no payments are due from either party.

 

   

A three-way collar contract consists of a standard collar contract plus a written put option with a strike price below the floor price of the collar. In addition to the settlement of the collar, the put option requires us to make a payment to the counterparty equal to the difference between the put option price and the settlement price if the settlement price for any settlement period is below the put option strike price.

Chesapeake enters into counter-swaps from time to time for the purpose of locking-in the value of a swap. Under the counter-swap, Chesapeake receives a floating price for the hedged commodity and pays a fixed price to

 

12


Table of Contents

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)

 

the counterparty. The counter-swap is 100% effective in locking-in the value of a swap since subsequent changes in the market value of the swap are entirely offset by subsequent changes in the market value of the counter-swap. We refer to this locked-in value as a locked swap. Generally, at the time Chesapeake enters into a counter-swap, Chesapeake removes the original swap’s designation as a cash flow hedge and classifies the original swap as a non-qualifying hedge under SFAS 133. The reason for this new designation is that collectively the swap and the counter-swap no longer hedge the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows. Instead, the swap and counter-swap effectively lock-in a specific gain (or loss) that will be unaffected by subsequent variability in oil and natural gas prices. Any locked-in gain or loss is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income and reclassified to oil and natural gas sales in the month of related production.

With respect to counter-swaps that are designed to lock-in the value of cap-swaps, the counter-swap is effective in locking-in the value of the cap-swap until the floating price reaches the cap (or floor) stipulated in the cap-swap agreement. The value of the counter-swap will increase (or decrease), but in the opposite direction, as the value of the cap-swap decreases (or increases) until the floating price reaches the pre-determined cap (or floor) stipulated in the cap-swap agreement. However, because of the written put option embedded in the cap-swap, the changes in value of the cap-swap are not completely effective in offsetting changes in value of the corresponding counter-swap. Changes in the value of cap-swaps and counter-swaps are recorded as adjustments to oil and natural gas sales.

In accordance with FASB Interpretation No. 39, to the extent that a legal right of set-off exists, Chesapeake nets the value of its derivative arrangements with the same counterparty in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Gains or losses from certain derivative transactions are reflected as adjustments to oil and natural gas sales on the condensed consolidated statements of operations. Realized gains (losses) included in oil and natural gas sales were $433 million and $248 million in the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, respectively. Pursuant to SFAS 133, certain derivatives do not qualify for designation as cash flow hedges. Changes in the fair value of these non-qualifying derivatives that occur prior to their maturity (i.e., temporary fluctuations in value) are reported currently in the condensed consolidated statements of operations as unrealized gains (losses) within oil and natural gas sales. Unrealized gains (losses) included in oil and natural gas sales were ($309) million and $198 million, in the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, respectively.

Following provisions of SFAS 133, changes in the fair value of derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges, to the extent they are effective in offsetting cash flows attributable to the hedged risk, are recorded in other comprehensive income until the hedged item is recognized in earnings. Any change in fair value resulting from ineffectiveness is recognized currently in oil and natural gas sales as unrealized gains (losses). We recorded an unrealized gain (loss) on ineffectiveness of ($54) million and $99 million in the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, respectively.

 

13


Table of Contents

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)

 

The estimated fair values of our oil and natural gas derivative instruments as of March 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006 are provided below. The associated carrying values of these instruments are equal to the estimated fair values.

 

    

March 31,

2007

   

December 31,

2006

 
     ($ in millions)  

Derivative assets (liabilities):

    

Fixed-price natural gas swaps

   $ (323 )   $ 1  

Natural gas basis protection swaps

     186       187  

Fixed-price natural gas cap-swaps

     (22 )     122  

Fixed-price natural gas counter-swaps

     —         (5 )

Natural gas call options(a)

     (172 )     (5 )

Fixed-price natural gas collars

     (26 )     (7 )

Fixed-price natural gas three-way collars

     (45 )     —    

Fixed-price oil swaps

     (1 )     28  

Fixed-price oil cap-swaps

     13       24  

Oil call options(b)

     (8 )     —    
                

Estimated fair value

   $ (398 )   $ 345  
                

(a) After adjusting for $119 million and $15 million of unrealized premiums, the cumulative unrealized gain (loss) related to these call options as of March 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006 was ($53) million and $10 million, respectively.
(b) After adjusting for $8 million of unrealized premiums, the cumulative unrealized loss related to these call options as of March 31, 2007 was less than $1 million.

In 2006 and 2007, Chesapeake lifted a portion of its 2007, 2008 and 2009 hedges and as a result has approximately $500 million of deferred hedging gains as of March 31, 2007. These gains have been recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income or as an unrealized gain in oil and natural gas sales. For amounts originally recorded in other comprehensive income, the gain will be recognized in oil and natural gas sales in the month of the hedged production.

Based upon the market prices at March 31, 2007, we expect to transfer approximately $94 million (net of income taxes) of the gain included in the balance in accumulated other comprehensive income to earnings during the next 12 months in the related month of production. All transactions hedged as of March 31, 2007 are expected to mature by December 31, 2009.

We have three secured hedging facilities maturing in 2011, each of which permits us to enter into cash-settled oil and natural gas commodity transactions, valued by the counterparty, for up to a maximum value. Outstanding transactions under each facility are collateralized by certain of our oil and natural gas properties that do not secure any of our other obligations. The hedging facilities are subject to a 1% per annum exposure fee, which is assessed quarterly based on the average of the daily negative fair value amounts of the hedges, if any, during the quarter. The hedging facilities contain the standard representations and default provisions that are typical of such agreements. The agreements also contain various restrictive provisions which govern the aggregate oil and natural gas production volumes that we are permitted to hedge under all of our agreements at any one time. The maximum permitted value of transactions under each facility and the fair values of outstanding transactions are shown below.

 

     Secured Hedging Facilities  
     #1    #2     #3  
     ($ in millions)  

Maximum permitted value of transactions under facility

   $ 750    $ 500     $ 500  

Fair value of outstanding transactions, as of March 31, 2007

   $ 10    $ (263 )   $ (77 )

Fair value of outstanding transactions, as of May 4, 2007

   $ —      $ (42 )   $ 49  

We assumed certain liabilities related to open derivative positions in connection with our acquisition of Columbia Natural Resources, LLC in November 2005. In accordance with SFAS 141, these derivative positions were recorded at fair value in the purchase price allocation as a liability of $592 million. The recognition of the derivative liability and other assumed liabilities resulted in an increase in the total purchase price which was allocated to the assets acquired. Because of this accounting treatment, only cash settlements for changes in fair value subsequent to the acquisition date for the derivative positions assumed result in adjustments to our oil and natural gas revenues upon settlement. For example, if the fair value of the derivative positions assumed does not

 

14


Table of Contents

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)

 

change, then upon the sale of the underlying production and corresponding settlement of the derivative positions, cash would be paid to the counterparties and there would be no adjustment to oil and natural gas revenues related to the derivative positions. If, however, the actual sales price is different from the price assumed in the original fair value calculation, the difference would be reflected as either a decrease or increase in oil and natural gas revenues, depending upon whether the sales price was higher or lower, respectively, than the prices assumed in the original fair value calculation. For accounting purposes, the net effect of these acquired hedges is that we hedged the production volumes at market prices on the date of our acquisition of CNR.

Pursuant to Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 149, Amendment of SFAS 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, the derivative instruments assumed in connection with the CNR acquisition are deemed to contain a significant financing element, and all cash flows associated with these positions are reported as financing activity in the statement of cash flows for the periods in which settlement occurs. The aggregate fair value of the remaining CNR derivatives as of March 31, 2007 was a liability of $311 million.

Interest Rate Derivatives

We use interest rate derivatives to mitigate our exposure to the volatility in interest rates. For interest rate derivative instruments designated as fair value hedges (in accordance with SFAS 133), changes in fair value are recorded on the condensed consolidated balance sheets as assets (liabilities), and the debt’s carrying value amount is adjusted by the change in the fair value of the debt subsequent to the initiation of the derivative. Changes in the fair value of derivative instruments not qualifying as fair value hedges are recorded currently as adjustments to interest expense.

Gains or losses from certain derivative transactions are reflected as adjustments to interest expense on the condensed consolidated statements of operations. Realized gains (losses) included in interest expense were ($2) million and $1 million in the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, respectively. Pursuant to SFAS 133, certain derivatives do not qualify for designation as fair value hedges. Changes in the fair value of these non-qualifying derivatives that occur prior to their maturity (i.e., temporary fluctuations in value) are reported currently in the condensed consolidated statements of operations as unrealized gains (losses) within interest expense. Unrealized gains (losses) included in interest expense were ($1) million, in both the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter.

As of March 31, 2007, the following interest rate swaps used to convert a portion of our long-term fixed-rate debt to floating-rate debt were outstanding:

 

Term

  

Notional

Amount

  

Fixed

Rate

   

Floating Rate

   Fair Value  
                     ($ in millions)  

September 2004 – August 2012

   $ 75,000,000    9.000 %  

6 month LIBOR plus 452 basis points

   $ (3 )

July 2005 – January 2015

   $ 150,000,000    7.750 %  

6 month LIBOR plus 289 basis points

     (5 )

July 2005 – June 2014

   $ 150,000,000    7.500 %  

6 month LIBOR plus 282 basis points

     (5 )

September 2005 – August 2014

   $ 250,000,000    7.000 %  

6 month LIBOR plus 205.5 basis points

     (6 )

October 2005 – June 2015

   $ 200,000,000    6.375 %  

6 month LIBOR plus 112 basis points

     (2 )

October 2005 – January 2018

   $ 250,000,000    6.250 %  

6 month LIBOR plus 99 basis points

     (5 )

December 2006 – July 2013

   $ 250,000,000    7.625 %  

6 month LIBOR plus 266.5 basis points

     (2 )

January 2007 – July 2013

   $ 250,000,000    7.625 %  

6 month LIBOR plus 251 basis points

     1  

February 2007 – August 2017

   $ 250,000,000    6.500 %  

6 month LIBOR plus 124.5 basis points

     1  
                
           $ (26 )
                

In the Current Quarter, we sold call options to a counterparty with respect to two of the interest rate swaps above and received $4 million in premiums. If exercised, the call option on the 7.625% interest rate swap gives the counterparty the right to terminate the interest rate swap on July 12, 2007 for a payment to Chesapeake of $2 million. The call option on the 6.50% interest rate swap gives the counterparty the right to terminate the interest rate swap on August 15, 2007 for a payment of $2 million to Chesapeake.

In the Current Quarter, we closed one interest rate swap for a gain totaling $1 million. This interest rate swap was designated as a fair value hedge, and the settlement amount received will be amortized as a reduction to realized interest expense over the remaining terms of the related senior notes.

 

15


Table of Contents

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)

 

Foreign Currency Derivatives

On December 6, 2006, we issued €600 million of 6.25% Euro-denominated Senior Notes due 2017. Concurrent with the issuance of the Euro-denominated senior notes, we entered into a cross currency swap to mitigate our exposure to fluctuations in the euro relative to the dollar over the term of the notes. Under the terms of the cross currency swap, on each semi-annual interest payment date, the counterparties will pay Chesapeake €19 million and Chesapeake will pay the counterparties $30 million, which will yield an annual dollar-equivalent interest rate of 7.491%. Upon maturity of the notes, the counterparties will pay Chesapeake €600 million and Chesapeake will pay the counterparties $800 million. The terms of the cross currency swap were based on the dollar/euro exchange rate on the issuance date of $1.3325 to €1.00. Through the cross currency swap, we have eliminated any potential variability in Chesapeake’s expected cash flows related to changes in foreign exchange rates and therefore the swap qualifies as a cash flow hedge under SFAS 133. The euro-denominated debt is recorded in notes payable ($802 million at March 31, 2007) using an exchange rate of $1.3374 to €1.00. The fair value of the cross currency swap is recorded on the condensed consolidated balance sheet as a liability of $20 million at March 31, 2007. The translation adjustment to notes payable is completely offset by the fair value of the cross currency swap and therefore there is no impact to the consolidated statement of operations. The remaining value of the cross currency swap related to future interest payments is reported in other comprehensive income.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The following disclosure of the estimated fair value of financial instruments is made in accordance with the requirements of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 107, Disclosures About Fair Value of Financial Instruments. We have determined the estimated fair values by using available market information and valuation methodologies. Considerable judgment is required in interpreting market data to develop the estimates of fair value. The use of different market assumptions or valuation methodologies may have a material effect on the estimated fair value amounts.

The carrying values of financial instruments comprising current assets and current liabilities approximate the fair values due to the short-term maturities of these instruments. We estimate the fair value of our long-term fixed-rate debt and our convertible preferred stock using primarily quoted market prices. Our carrying amounts for such debt, excluding discounts or premiums related to interest rate derivatives, at March 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006 were $7.227 billion and $7.215 billion, respectively, compared to approximate fair values of $7.444 billion and $7.336 billion, respectively. The carrying amount for our convertible preferred stock as of March 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006 was $1.958 billion, compared to approximate fair values of $1.986 billion and $1.949 billion, respectively.

Concentration of Credit Risk

A significant portion of our liquidity is concentrated in derivative instruments that enable us to hedge a portion of our exposure to price volatility from producing oil and natural gas. These arrangements expose us to credit risk from our counterparties. Other financial instruments which potentially subject us to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of investments in equity instruments and accounts receivable. Our accounts receivable are primarily from purchasers of oil and natural gas products and exploration and production companies which own interests in properties we operate. This industry concentration has the potential to impact our overall exposure to credit risk, either positively or negatively, in that our customers may be similarly affected by changes in economic, industry or other conditions. We generally require letters of credit for receivables from customers which are judged to have sub-standard credit, unless the credit risk can otherwise be mitigated.

3. Contingencies and Commitments

Litigation

We are involved in various disputes incidental to our business operations, including claims from royalty owners regarding volume measurements, post-production costs and prices for royalty calculations. In Tawney, et al. v. Columbia Natural Resources, Inc., Chesapeake’s wholly owned subsidiary Chesapeake Appalachia, L.L.C., formerly known as Columbia Natural Resources, LLC (CNR), is a defendant in a class action lawsuit in the Circuit Court of Roane County, West Virginia filed in 2003 by royalty owners. The plaintiffs allege that CNR underpaid royalties by improperly deducting post-production costs, failing to pay royalty on total volumes of natural gas produced and not paying a fair value for the natural gas produced from their leases. The plaintiff class consists of West Virginia royalty owners receiving royalties after July 31, 1990 from CNR. Chesapeake acquired CNR in

 

16


Table of Contents

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)

 

November 2005, and its seller acquired CNR in 2003 from NiSource Inc. NiSource, a co-defendant in the case, has managed the litigation and indemnified Chesapeake against underpayment claims based on the use of fixed prices for natural gas production sold under certain forward sale contracts and other claims with respect to CNR’s operations prior to September 2003.

On January 27, 2007, the Circuit Court jury returned a verdict against the defendants of $404 million, consisting of $134 million in compensatory damages and $270 million in punitive damages. Most of the damages awarded by the jury relate to issues not yet addressed by the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals, although in June 2006 that Court ruled against the defendants on two certified questions regarding the deductibility of post-production expenses. The jury found fraud with respect to the sales prices used to calculate royalty payments and with respect to the failure of CNR to disclose post-production deductions.

Chesapeake and NiSource maintain CNR acted in good faith and paid royalties in accordance with lease terms and West Virginia law, and we intend to appeal any adverse judgment in the case. On March 5, 2007, the Circuit Court heard a joint motion for post-trial review of punitive damages filed by Chesapeake and NiSource. The Circuit Court has indicated it will rule on the motion in May 2007. Chesapeake has established an accrual for amounts it believes will not be indemnified. Should a final nonappealable judgment be entered, Chesapeake believes its share of damages will not have a material adverse effect on its results of operations, financial condition or liquidity.

Chesapeake is subject to other legal proceedings and claims which arise in the ordinary course of business. In our opinion, the final resolution of these proceedings and claims will not have a material effect on the company.

Employment Agreements with Officers

Chesapeake has employment agreements with its chief executive officer, chief operating officer, chief financial officer and other executive officers, which provide for annual base salaries, various benefits and eligibility for bonus compensation. The agreement with the chief executive officer has a term of five years commencing January 1, 2007. The term of the agreement is automatically extended for one additional year on each December 31 unless the company provides 30 days notice of non-extension. In the event of termination of employment without cause, the chief executive officer’s base compensation (defined as base salary plus bonus compensation received during the preceding 12 months) and benefits would continue during the remaining term of the agreement. The chief executive officer is entitled to receive a payment in the amount of three times his base compensation and three times the value of the prior year’s benefits, plus a tax gross-up payment, upon the happening of certain events following a change of control, and the company will also provide him office space and secretarial and accounting support for a period of 12 months thereafter. Any stock-based awards held by the chief executive officer and deferred compensation will immediately become 100% vested upon termination of employment without cause, a change of control event, incapacity, death or retirement at or after age 55, and any unexercised stock options will not terminate as the result of termination of employment.

The agreements with the chief operating officer, chief financial officer and other executive officers expire on September 30, 2009. These agreements provide for the continuation of salary for one year in the event of termination of employment without cause and, in the event of a change of control, a payment in the amount of two times the executive officer’s base compensation. Any stock-based awards held by such executive officers will immediately become 100% vested upon termination of employment without cause, a change of control, death or retirement at or after age 55.

Environmental Risk

Due to the nature of the oil and natural gas business, Chesapeake and its subsidiaries are exposed to possible environmental risks. Chesapeake has implemented various policies and procedures to avoid environmental contamination and risks from environmental contamination. Chesapeake conducts periodic reviews, on a company-wide basis, to identify changes in our environmental risk profile. These reviews evaluate whether there is a contingent liability, its amount, and the likelihood that the liability will be incurred. The amount of any potential liability is determined by considering, among other matters, incremental direct costs of any likely remediation and the proportionate cost of employees who are expected to devote a significant amount of time directly to any possible remediation effort. We manage our exposure to environmental liabilities on properties to be acquired by identifying existing problems and assessing the potential liability. Depending on the extent of an identified environmental problem, Chesapeake may exclude a property from the acquisition, require the seller to remediate the property to our satisfaction, or agree to assume liability for the remediation of the property. Chesapeake has historically not experienced any significant environmental liability, and is not aware of any potential material environmental issues or claims at March 31, 2007.

 

17


Table of Contents

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)

 

Rig Leases

In a series of transactions in 2006 and 2007, our wholly owned subsidiary, Nomac Drilling Corporation, has sold 27 of its drilling rigs and related equipment for $274 million and entered into a master lease agreement under which it agreed to lease the rigs from the buyer for initial terms of eight to ten years for rental payments of approximately $36 million annually. Nomac’s lease obligations are guaranteed by Chesapeake and its other material domestic subsidiaries. These transactions were recorded as sales and operating leasebacks, with an aggregate deferred gain of $28 million on the sales which will be amortized to service operations expense over the lease term. Under the rig leases, we have the option to purchase the rigs in 2013 or on the expiration of the lease term for a purchase price equal to the then fair market value of the rigs. Additionally, we have the option to renew the rig lease for a negotiated renewal term at a periodic rental equal to the fair market rental value of the rigs as determined at the time of renewal. Commitments related to these lease payments are not recorded in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets. As of March 31, 2007, the minimum aggregate future rig lease payments were approximately $290 million.

Transportation Contracts

Chesapeake has various firm pipeline transportation service agreements with expiration dates ranging from one to 93 years. These commitments are not recorded in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets. Under the terms of these contracts, we are obligated to pay demand charges as set forth in the transporter’s Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) gas tariff. In exchange, the company receives rights to flow natural gas production through pipelines located in highly competitive markets. As of March 31, 2007, the aggregate amount of such required demand payments was approximately $379 million (excluding demand charges for pipeline projects that are currently seeking regulatory approval).

Drilling Contracts

Currently, Chesapeake has contracts with various drilling contractors to use approximately 43 rigs with terms of one to three years. As of March 31, 2007, the minimum aggregate drilling rig commitment was approximately $364 million.

As of March 31, 2007, Chesapeake’s service operations companies have contracted to acquire 12 rigs to be constructed during 2007. The total remaining cost of the rigs is estimated to be approximately $86 million.

Other Commitments

As of March 31, 2007, Chesapeake has contracted to acquire compressors during 2007, 2008 and 2009 for a total commitment of $165 million which is not recorded in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Chesapeake and a leading investment bank have an agreement to lend Mountain Drilling Company, of which Chesapeake is a 49% equity owner, up to $32 million each through December 31, 2009. At March 31, 2007, there was $29 million outstanding under this agreement.

Chesapeake has an agreement to lend Ventura Refining and Transmission LLC, of which Chesapeake is a 25% equity owner, up to $26 million through February 28, 2008. At March 31, 2007, there was $18 million outstanding under this agreement. Additionally, we have agreed to guarantee various commitments for Ventura, up to $75 million, to support their operating activities.

4. Net Income Per Share

Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 128, Earnings Per Share, requires presentation of “basic” and “diluted” earnings per share, as defined, on the face of the statements of operations for all entities with complex capital structures. SFAS 128 requires a reconciliation of the numerator and denominator of the basic and diluted EPS computations.

 

18


Table of Contents

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)

 

The following securities were not included in the calculation of diluted earnings per share, as the effect was antidilutive:

 

   

For the Prior Quarter, diluted shares do not include the common stock equivalent of our 4.125% preferred stock outstanding prior to conversion (convertible into 32,596 shares) and the preferred stock adjustment to net income does not include dividends and loss on conversion related to these preferred shares which amount to less than $1 million as the effect on diluted earnings per share would have been antidilutive.

 

   

For the Prior Quarter, diluted shares do not include the common stock equivalent of our 5.0% (Series 2003) preferred stock outstanding prior to conversion (convertible into 235,584 shares), and the preferred stock adjustment to net income does not include $1 million of dividends and loss on conversion related to these preferred shares, as the effect on diluted earnings per share would have been antidilutive.

Reconciliations for the three months ended March 31, 2007 and 2006 are as follows:

 

    

Income

(Numerator)

  

Shares

(Denominator)

  

Per
Share

Amount

     (in millions, except per share data)

For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2007:

        

Basic EPS:

        

Income available to common shareholders

   $ 232    451    $ 0.51
                  

Effect of Dilutive Securities

        

Assumed conversion as of the beginning of the period of preferred shares outstanding during the period:

        

Common shares assumed issued for 4.50% convertible preferred stock

     —      8   

Common shares assumed issued for 5.00% convertible preferred stock (Series 2005)

     —      18   

Common shares assumed issued for 5.00% convertible preferred stock (Series 2005B)

     —      15   

Common shares assumed issued for 6.25% mandatory convertible preferred stock

     —      19   

Employee stock options

     —      3   

Restricted stock

     —      2   

Preferred stock dividends

     26    —     
              

Diluted EPS Income available to common shareholders and assumed conversions

   $ 258    516    $ 0.50
                  

For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2006:

        

Basic EPS:

        

Income available to common shareholders

   $ 604    369    $ 1.64
                  

Effect of Dilutive Securities

        

Assumed conversion as of the beginning of the period of preferred shares outstanding during the period:

        

Common shares assumed issued for 4.125% convertible preferred stock

     —      5   

Common shares assumed issued for 4.50% convertible preferred stock

     —      8   

Common shares assumed issued for 5.00% convertible preferred stock (Series 2003)

     —      5   

Common shares assumed issued for 5.00% convertible preferred stock (Series 2005)

     —      18   

Common shares assumed issued for 5.00% convertible preferred stock (Series 2005B)

     —      15   

Employee stock options

     —      9   

Restricted stock

     —      2   

Preferred stock dividends

     19    —     
              

Diluted EPS Income available to common shareholders and assumed conversions

   $ 623    431    $ 1.44
                  

 

19


Table of Contents

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)

 

5. Stockholders’ Equity

The following is a summary of the changes in our common shares outstanding for the three months ended March 31, 2007 and 2006:

 

     2007    2006
     (in thousands)

Shares outstanding at January 1

   458,601    375,511

Stock option exercises

   532    8,354

Restricted stock issuances

   2,253    1,693

Preferred stock conversions/exchanges

   —      1,795
         

Shares outstanding at March 31

   461,386    387,353
         

The following is a summary of the changes in our preferred shares outstanding for the three months ended March 31, 2007 and 2006:

 

     6.00%    

5.00%

(2003)

    4.125%    

5.00%

(2005)

   4.50%   

5.00%

(2005B)

   6.25%
     (in thousands)

Shares outstanding at January 1, 2007

   —       —       3     4,600    3,450    5,750    2,300

Conversion/exchange of preferred for common stock

   —       —       —       —      —      —      —  
                                     

Shares outstanding at March 31, 2007

   —       —       3     4,600    3,450    5,750    2,300
                                     

Shares outstanding at January 1, 2006

   99     1,026     89     4,600    3,450    5,750    —  

Conversion/exchange of preferred for common stock

   (99 )   (183 )   (3 )   —      —      —      —  
                                     

Shares outstanding at March 31, 2006

   —       843     86     4,600    3,450    5,750    —  
                                     

In connection with the exchanges and conversions noted above, we recorded a loss of $1 million in the Prior Quarter. In general, the loss is equal to the excess of the fair value of all common stock exchanged over the fair value of the securities issuable pursuant to the original conversion terms of the preferred stock.

During the Current Quarter, a holder of our 4.125% cumulative convertible preferred stock converted 3 shares into 180 shares of common stock and in the Prior Quarter holders of the 4.125% preferred stock exchanged 2,750 shares for 172,594 shares of our common stock.

During the Prior Quarter, holders of our 5.0% (Series 2003) cumulative convertible preferred stock exchanged 183,273 shares for 1,140,223 shares of our common stock.

During the Prior Quarter, the remaining 99,310 shares of our 6.0% preferred stock were converted into or exchanged for 482,694 shares of common stock.

 

20


Table of Contents

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)

 

6. Senior Notes and Revolving Bank Credit Facility

Our long-term debt consisted of the following as of March 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006:

 

    

March 31,

2007

   

December 31,

2006

 
     ($ in millions)  

7.5% Senior Notes due 2013

   $ 364     $ 364  

7.625% Senior Notes due 2013

     500       500  

7.0% Senior Notes due 2014

     300       300  

7.5% Senior Notes due 2014

     300       300  

7.75% Senior Notes due 2015

     300       300  

6.375% Senior Notes due 2015

     600       600  

6.625% Senior Notes due 2016

     600       600  

6.875% Senior Notes due 2016

     670       670  

6.5% Senior Notes due 2017

     1,100       1,100  

6.25% Euro-denominated Senior Notes due 2017(a)

     802       792  

6.25% Senior Notes due 2018

     600       600  

6.875% Senior Notes due 2020

     500       500  

2.75% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes due 2035(b)

     690       690  

Revolving bank credit facility

     1,153       178  

Discount on senior notes

     (99 )     (101 )

Discount for interest rate derivatives(c)

     (9 )     (17 )
                

Total notes payable and long-term debt

   $ 8,371     $ 7,376  
                

(a) The principal amount shown is based on the dollar/euro exchange rate of $1.3374 to €1.00 and $1.3197 to €1.00 as of March 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006, respectively. See Note 2 for information on our related cross currency swap.
(b) The holders of the 2.75% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes due 2035 may require us to repurchase all or a portion of these notes on November 15, 2015, 2020, 2025 and 2030, or upon a fundamental change, at 100% of the principal amount of these notes. The notes are convertible, at the holder’s option, prior to maturity under certain circumstances, into cash and, if applicable, shares of our common stock using a net share settlement process. In general, upon conversion of a convertible senior note, the holder will receive cash equal to the principal amount of the note and common stock for the note’s conversion value in excess of such principal amount. In addition, we will pay contingent interest on the convertible senior notes, beginning with the nine-month period ending May 14, 2016, under certain conditions. We may redeem the convertible senior notes on or after November 15, 2015 at a redemption price of 100% of the principal amount of such notes.
(c) See Note 2 for discussion related to these instruments.

No scheduled principal payments are required under our senior notes until 2013 when $864 million is due.

Our outstanding senior notes are unsecured senior obligations of Chesapeake that rank equally in right of payment with all of our existing and future senior indebtedness and rank senior in right of payment to all of our future subordinated indebtedness. We may redeem the senior notes, other than the 2.75% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes due 2035, at any time at specified make-whole or redemption prices. Senior notes issued before July 2005 are governed by indentures containing covenants that limit our ability and our restricted subsidiaries’ ability to incur additional indebtedness; pay dividends on our capital stock or redeem, repurchase or retire our capital stock or subordinated indebtedness; make investments and other restricted payments; incur liens; enter into sale-leaseback transactions; create restrictions on the payment of dividends or other amounts to us from our restricted subsidiaries; engage in transactions with affiliates; sell assets; and consolidate, merge or transfer assets. Senior notes issued after June 2005 are governed by indentures containing covenants that limit our ability and our restricted subsidiaries’ ability to incur certain secured indebtedness; enter into sale-leaseback transactions; and consolidate, merge or transfer assets.

Chesapeake is a holding company and owns no operating assets and has no significant operations independent of its subsidiaries. Our obligations under our outstanding senior notes have been fully and unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, by all of our wholly owned subsidiaries, other than minor subsidiaries, on a senior unsecured basis.

We have a $2.5 billion syndicated revolving bank credit facility which matures in February 2011. As of March 31, 2007, we had $1.153 billion in outstanding borrowings under our facility and utilized $3 million of the facility for various letters of credit. Borrowings under our facility are collateralized by certain producing oil and natural gas

 

21


Table of Contents

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)

 

properties and bear interest at either (i) the greater of the reference rate of Union Bank of California, N.A. or the federal funds effective rate plus 0.50% or (ii) the London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR), at our option, plus a margin that varies from 0.875% to 1.50% according to our senior unsecured long-term debt ratings. The collateral value and borrowing base are determined periodically. The unused portion of the facility is subject to a commitment fee that also varies according to our senior unsecured long-term debt ratings, from 0.125% to 0.30% per annum. Currently, the commitment fee rate is 0.25% per annum. Interest is payable quarterly or, if LIBOR applies, it may be payable at more frequent intervals.

The credit facility agreement contains various covenants and restrictive provisions which govern our ability to incur additional indebtedness, make investments or loans and create liens. The credit facility agreement requires us to maintain an indebtedness to total capitalization ratio (as defined) not to exceed 0.65 to 1 and an indebtedness to EBITDA ratio (as defined) not to exceed 3.5 to 1. As defined by the credit facility agreement, our indebtedness to total capitalization ratio was 0.43 to 1 and our indebtedness to EBITDA ratio was 1.86 to 1 at March 31, 2007. If we should fail to perform our obligations under these and other covenants, the revolving credit commitment could be terminated and any outstanding borrowings under the facility could be declared immediately due and payable. Such acceleration, if involving a principal amount of $10 million ($50 million in the case of our senior notes issued after 2004), would constitute an event of default under our senior note indentures, which could in turn result in the acceleration of a significant portion of our senior note indebtedness. The credit facility agreement also has cross default provisions that apply to other indebtedness we may have with an outstanding principal amount in excess of $75 million.

Two of our subsidiaries, Chesapeake Exploration Limited Partnership and Chesapeake Appalachia, L.L.C., are the borrowers under our revolving bank credit facility. The facility is fully and unconditionally guaranteed, on a joint and several basis, by Chesapeake and all of our other wholly owned subsidiaries except minor subsidiaries.

7. Segment Information

In accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 131, Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information, we have two reportable operating segments. Our exploration and production segment and oil and natural gas marketing segment are managed separately because of the nature of their products and services. The exploration and production segment is responsible for finding and producing oil and natural gas. The marketing segment is responsible for gathering, processing, compressing, transporting and selling oil and natural gas primarily from Chesapeake-operated wells. We also have drilling rig and trucking operations, which are responsible for providing drilling rigs primarily used on Chesapeake-operated wells and trucking services utilized in the transportation of drilling rigs on both Chesapeake-operated wells and wells operated by third parties.

 

22


Table of Contents

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)

 

Management evaluates the performance of our segments based upon income before income taxes. Revenues from the marketing segment’s sale of oil and natural gas related to Chesapeake’s ownership interests are reflected as exploration and production revenues. Such amounts totaled $705 million and $691 million for the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, respectively. The following table presents selected financial information for Chesapeake’s operating segments. Our drilling rig and trucking service operations are presented in “Other Operations”.

 

     Exploration
and Production
   Marketing     Other
Operations
    Intercompany
Eliminations
    Consolidated
Total
     ($ in millions)

For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2007:

           

Revenues

   $ 1,125    $ 1,127     $ 108     $ (780 )   $ 1,580

Intersegment revenues

     —        (705 )     (75 )     780       —  
                                     

Total revenues

   $ 1,125    $ 422     $ 33     $ —       $ 1,580
                                     

Income before income taxes

   $ 405    $ 8     $ 30     $ (27 )   $ 416
                                     

For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2006:

           

Revenues

   $ 1,511    $ 1,095     $ 49     $ (711 )   $ 1,944

Intersegment revenues

     —        (691 )     (20 )     711       —  
                                     

Total revenues

   $ 1,511    $ 404     $ 29     $ —       $ 1,944
                                     

Income before income taxes

   $ 989    $ 12     $ 11     $ (6 )   $ 1,006
                                     

As of March 31, 2007:

           

Total assets

   $ 24,478    $ 976     $ 791     $ (513 )   $ 25,732

As of December 31, 2006:

           

Total assets

   $ 23,333    $ 864     $ 786     $ (566 )   $ 24,417

8. Acquisitions

Oil and Natural Gas Properties

Through multiple acquisitions completed in the Current Quarter, we invested $215 million in proved properties, including approximately $7 million of deferred income taxes to reflect the tax effect of the cost paid in excess of the tax basis acquired on certain corporate acquisitions. Additionally, we invested $258 million in unproved property acquisitions.

9. Recently Issued Accounting Standards

The FASB recently issued the following standards which were reviewed by Chesapeake to determine the potential impact on our financial statements upon adoption.

In June 2006, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation (FIN) No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes - an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109. FIN 48 provides guidance for recognizing and measuring uncertain tax positions, as defined in SFAS 109, Accounting for Income Taxes. FIN 48 prescribes a threshold condition that a tax position must meet for any of the benefit of the uncertain tax position to be recognized in the financial statements. Guidance is also provided regarding de-recognition, classification and disclosure of these uncertain tax positions. We adopted FIN 48 effective January 1, 2007. The effect of FIN 48 is more fully described in Note 1.

In February 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 155, Accounting for Certain Hybrid Financial Instruments – an amendment of FASB Statements No. 133 and 140. SFAS 155 permits an entity to measure at fair value any financial instrument that contains an embedded derivative that otherwise would require bifurcation. This statement is effective for all financial instruments we acquire or issue after December 31, 2006. Adoption of SFAS 155 did not have a material effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, Fair Value Measurements. This statement defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. This statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. We are currently assessing the impact, if any, SFAS 157 will have on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

23


Table of Contents

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)

 

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. This statement permits entities to choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value. This statement expands the use of fair value measurement and applies to entities that elect the fair value option. The fair value option established by this statement permits all entities to choose to measure eligible items at fair value at specified election dates. This statement is effective as of the beginning of the first fiscal year that begins after November 15, 2007. We are currently assessing the impact, if any, the adoption of this statement will have on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

10. Subsequent Events

On April 30, 2007, we announced that we entered into a letter of intent with Gastar Exploration Ltd. to acquire a portion of Gastar’s East Texas undeveloped leasehold for total consideration of approximately $92 million, including the purchase of 10 million newly issued Gastar common shares at a price of $2.00 per share. Following the transaction, Chesapeake would own a total of 42.2 million Gastar common shares, or approximately 20.5% of Gastar’s basic shares outstanding. This transaction is subject to another party’s right of first refusal.

 

24


Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Overview

The following table sets forth certain information regarding the production volumes, oil and natural gas sales, average sales prices received, other operating income and expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2007 (the “Current Quarter”) and the three months ended March 31, 2006 (the “Prior Quarter”):

 

     Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
     2007     2006  

Net Production:

    

Oil (mbbls)

     2,143       2,116  

Natural gas (mmcf)

     140,792       124,056  

Natural gas equivalent (mmcfe)

     153,650       136,752  

Oil and Natural Gas Sales ($ in millions):

    

Oil sales

   $ 113     $ 125  

Oil derivatives – realized gains (losses)

     18       (4 )

Oil derivatives – unrealized gains (losses)

     (12 )     (1 )
                

Total oil sales

     119       120  
                

Natural gas sales

     888       940  

Natural gas derivatives – realized gains (losses)

     415       252  

Natural gas derivatives – unrealized gains (losses)

     (297 )     199  
                

Total natural gas sales

     1,006       1,391  
                

Total oil and natural gas sales

   $ 1,125     $ 1,511  
                

Average Sales Price (excluding all gains (losses) on derivatives):

    

Oil ($ per bbl)

   $ 52.80     $ 58.92  

Natural gas ($ per mcf)

   $ 6.31     $ 7.58  

Natural gas equivalent ($ per mcfe)

   $ 6.52     $ 7.79  

Average Sales Price (excluding unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives):

    

Oil ($ per bbl)

   $ 61.13     $ 57.12  

Natural gas ($ per mcf)

   $ 9.26     $ 9.61  

Natural gas equivalent ($ per mcfe)

   $ 9.33     $ 9.60  

Other Operating Income(a) ($ in millions):

    

Oil and natural gas marketing

   $ 15     $ 13  

Service operations

   $ 11     $ 15  

Other Operating Income ($ per mcfe):

    

Oil and natural gas marketing

   $ 0.10     $ 0.10  

Service operations

   $ 0.08     $ 0.11  

Expenses ($ per mcfe):

    

Production expenses

   $ 0.93     $ 0.87  

Production taxes

   $ 0.27     $ 0.40  

General and administrative expenses

   $ 0.34     $ 0.21  

Oil and natural gas depreciation, depletion and amortization

   $ 2.56     $ 2.23  

Depreciation and amortization of other assets

   $ 0.23     $ 0.17  

Interest expense(b)

   $ 0.50     $ 0.52  

Interest Expense ($ in millions):

    

Interest expense

   $ 76     $ 73  

Interest rate derivatives – realized (gains) losses

     2       (1 )

Interest rate derivatives – unrealized (gains) losses

     1       1  
                

Total interest expense

   $ 79     $ 73  
                

Net Wells Drilled

     461       255  

Net Producing Wells as of the End of the Period

     19,623       17,669  

(a) Includes revenue and operating costs.
(b) Includes the effects of realized gains (losses) from interest rate derivatives, but excludes the effects of unrealized gains (losses) and is net of amounts capitalized.

 

25


Table of Contents

Chesapeake is the third largest independent and the sixth largest overall producer of natural gas in the United States. We own interests in approximately 35,500 producing oil and natural gas wells that are currently producing approximately 1.8 bcfe per day, 92% of which is natural gas. Our strategy is focused on discovering, developing and acquiring onshore natural gas reserves in the U.S. east of the Rocky Mountains. Our most important operating area has historically been in various conventional plays in the Mid-Continent region of Oklahoma, Arkansas, southwestern Kansas and the Texas Panhandle. At March 31, 2007, 47% of our estimated proved oil and natural gas reserves were located in the Mid-Continent region. During the past five years, we have also built significant positions in various conventional and unconventional plays in the Fort Worth Basin in north-central Texas; the Appalachian Basin, principally in West Virginia, eastern Kentucky, eastern Ohio and southern New York; the Permian and Delaware Basins of West Texas and eastern New Mexico; the Ark-La-Tex area of East Texas and northern Louisiana; and the South Texas and Texas Gulf Coast regions. We have established a top-three position in nearly every major shale play in the U.S., including the Fort Worth Barnett Shale, the Arkansas Fayetteville Shale, the Appalachian Basin Devonian Shale, the southeast Oklahoma Woodford Shale, the Delaware Basin Barnett and Woodford Shales, the Illinois Basin New Albany Shale and the Conasauga, Floyd and Chattanooga Shales in Alabama.

Oil and natural gas production for the Current Quarter was 153.7 bcfe, an increase of 16.9 bcfe, or 12% over the 136.8 bcfe produced in the Prior Quarter. We have increased our production for 23 consecutive quarters. During these 23 quarters, Chesapeake’s U.S. production has increased 326% for an average compound quarterly growth rate of 6.5% and an average compound annual growth rate of 29%.

The increased oil and natural gas production was partially offset by a decrease in the prices we received in the Current Quarter compared to the Prior Quarter. On a natural gas equivalent basis, weighted average prices (excluding the effect of unrealized gains or losses on derivatives) were $9.33 per mcfe in the Current Quarter compared to $9.60 per mcfe in the Prior Quarter. The decrease in prices resulted in a decrease in revenue of $41 million, and increased production resulted in an increase in revenue of $162 million, for a total increase in revenue of $121 million (excluding the effect of unrealized gains or losses on derivatives). In each of the operating areas where Chesapeake sells its oil and natural gas, established marketing and transportation infrastructures exist, thereby contributing to relatively high wellhead price realizations for our production.

During the Current Quarter, Chesapeake continued to lead the nation in drilling activity with an average utilization of 129 operated rigs and 94 non-operated rigs. Through this drilling activity, we drilled 476 (404 net) operated wells and participated in another 394 (57 net) wells operated by other companies. Our drilling success rate was 99% for company-operated wells and 98% for non-operated wells. During the Current Quarter, Chesapeake invested $906 million in operated wells, $160 million in non-operated wells and $198 million in acquiring 3-D seismic data and leasehold (excluding leasehold acquired through acquisitions). Our acquisition expenditures totaled $465 million during the Current Quarter, including amounts paid for unproved leasehold and excluding $7 million of deferred income taxes in connection with certain corporate acquisitions. The shift between our drilling expenditures and acquisition expenditures during the quarter reflects our change in focus from resource inventory capture to resource inventory conversion.

Chesapeake began 2007 with estimated proved reserves of 8.956 tcfe and based on internal estimates ended the Current Quarter with 9.431 tcfe, an increase of 475 bcfe, or 5.3%. During the Current Quarter, we replaced 154 bcfe of production with an estimated 629 bcfe of new proved reserves, for a reserve replacement rate of 410%. Reserve replacement through the drillbit was 535 bcfe, or 349% of production (including 205 bcfe of positive performance revisions and 135 bcfe of positive revisions resulting from oil and natural gas price increases between December 31, 2006 and March 31, 2007) and 85% of the total increase. Reserve replacement through the acquisition of proved reserves was 94 bcfe, or 61% of production and 15% of the total increase. Based on our current drilling schedule and budget, we expect that virtually all of the proved undeveloped reserves added in 2007 will begin producing within the next three to five years. Generally, proved developed reserves are producing at the time they are added or will begin producing within one year.

Chesapeake attributes its strong drilling results and production growth during the Current Quarter to management’s early recognition that oil and natural gas prices were undergoing structural change and its subsequent decision to invest aggressively in the building blocks of value creation in the E&P industry - people, land and seismic. During the past five years, Chesapeake has significantly strengthened its technical capabilities by increasing its land, geoscience and engineering staff to approximately 1,100 employees. Today, the company has over 5,000 employees, of which approximately 60% work in the company’s E&P operations and 40% work in the company’s oilfield service operations.

 

26


Table of Contents

Since 2000, Chesapeake has invested $7.1 billion in new leasehold and 3-D seismic acquisitions and now owns one of the largest inventories of onshore leasehold (11.2 million net acres) and 3-D seismic (16.7 million acres) in the U.S. On this leasehold, the company has an estimated 26,500 net drilling locations, representing an approximate 10-year inventory of drilling projects.

As of March 31, 2007, the company’s debt as a percentage of total capitalization (total capitalization is the sum of debt and stockholders’ equity) was 43% compared to 40% as of December 31, 2006. The average maturity of our long-term debt is over nine years and our average interest rate is approximately 6.5%.

We intend to continue to focus on improving the strength of our balance sheet. We believe our business strategy and operational performance will lead to an investment grade credit rating for our unsecured debt at some point in the future.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Sources and Uses of Funds

Our primary source of liquidity to meet operating expenses and fund capital expenditures (other than for certain acquisitions) is cash flow from operations. Based on our current assumptions of production, prices and expenses, we expect our drilling, land and seismic capital expenditures in 2007 to exceed our cash flow from operations. Any additional funds required will be initially provided through additional borrowings under our bank credit facility. Our budget for drilling, land and seismic activities during 2007 is currently between $5.0 billion and $5.2 billion. We believe this level of exploration and development will enable us to increase our proved oil and natural gas reserves in 2007 by more than 10% and increase our total production by 14% to 18% (inclusive of acquisitions completed or scheduled to close in 2007 through the filing date of this report but without regard to any additional acquisitions that may be completed in 2007). However, higher drilling and field operating costs, drilling results that alter planned development schedules, acquisitions or other factors could cause us to revise our drilling program, which is largely discretionary.

Cash provided by operating activities was $977 million in the Current Quarter compared to $967 million in the Prior Quarter. The $10 million increase was primarily due to higher oil and natural gas production. We expect that 2007 production volumes will be higher than in 2006 and that cash provided by operating activities in 2007 will exceed 2006 levels. While a decline in natural gas prices in 2007 would affect the amount of cash flow that would be generated from operations, we currently have oil swaps in place covering 77% of our expected remaining oil production in 2007 at an average NYMEX price of $71.47 per barrel of oil and natural gas swaps in place covering 54% of our expected remaining natural gas production in 2007 at an average NYMEX price of $8.49 per mcf, along with natural gas collars covering 13% of our anticipated remaining natural gas production for 2007 with an average NYMEX floor of $6.88 per mcf and an average NYMEX ceiling of $8.41 per mcf. Additionally, we have written call options covering 13% of our 2007 remaining natural gas production at a weighted average price of $9.48. This level of hedging provides certainty of the cash flow we will receive for a substantial portion of our 2007 production. Depending on changes in oil and natural gas futures markets and management’s view of underlying oil and natural gas supply and demand trends, however, we may increase or decrease our current hedging positions.

Based on fluctuations in natural gas and oil prices, our hedging counterparties may require us to deliver cash collateral or other assurances of performance from time to time. All but two of our commodity price risk management counterparties require us to provide assurances of performance in the event that the counterparties’ mark-to-market exposure to us exceeds certain levels. Most of these arrangements allow us to minimize the potential liquidity impact of significant mark-to-market fluctuations by making collateral allocations from our bank credit facility or directly pledging oil and natural gas properties, rather than posting cash or letters of credit with the counterparties. As of March 31, 2007 and May 4, 2007, we had outstanding collateral allocations and pledges of oil and natural gas properties with respect to commodity price risk management transactions but were not required to post any collateral with our counterparties through letters of credit issued under our bank credit facility. Future collateral requirements are uncertain and will depend on the arrangements with our counterparties and highly volatile natural gas and oil prices.

A significant source of liquidity is our $2.5 billion syndicated revolving bank credit facility which matures in February 2011. At May 4, 2007, there was $886 million of borrowing capacity available under the revolving bank credit facility. We use the facility to fund daily operating activities and acquisitions as needed. We borrowed $1.833 billion and repaid $858 million in the Current Quarter, and we borrowed $2.202 billion and repaid $1.830 billion in the Prior Quarter under the credit facility.

 

27


Table of Contents

We expect our operating costs, debt service, capital expenditures, short-term contractual obligations and dividend payments in 2007 will, at times, exceed our available cash, cash provided by operating activities and funds available under our revolving bank credit facility. We are considering various alternatives to meet the shortfall.

The public and institutional markets have been our principal source of long-term financing for acquisitions, although there were no issuances of debt or equity securities in the Current Quarter and no issuances of equity securities in the Prior Quarter. We issued $500 million principal amount of 6.5% Senior Notes due 2017 and received net proceeds of $487 million in the Prior Quarter. We have sold debt and equity in both public and private offerings in the past, and we expect that these sources of capital will continue to be available to us in the future. Nevertheless, we caution that ready access to capital on reasonable terms is subject to many uncertainties, as explained under “Risk Factors” in Item 1A of our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006.

We paid dividends on our common stock of $27 million and $18 million in the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, respectively. The board of directors increased the quarterly dividend on common stock from $0.05 to $0.06 per share beginning with the dividend paid in July 2006. We paid dividends on our preferred stock of $26 million and $19 million in the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, respectively. We received $3 million and $39 million from the exercise of employee and director stock options in the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, respectively. The Prior Quarter amount included $37 million paid by Tom L. Ward, our former President and Chief Operating Officer, to exercise all of his stock options following his resignation in February 2006.

In the Current Quarter and Prior Quarter, we paid $22 million and $30 million, respectively, to settle a portion of the derivative liabilities assumed in our November 2005 acquisition of Columbia Natural Resources, LLC.

On January 1, 2006, we adopted SFAS 123(R), which requires tax benefits resulting from stock-based compensation deductions in excess of amounts reported for financial reporting purposes to be reported as cash flows from financing activities. In the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, we reported a tax benefit from stock-based compensation of $4 million and $77 million, respectively.

Outstanding payments from certain disbursement accounts in excess of funded cash balances where no legal right of set-off exists decreased $8 million in the Current Quarter and increased $72 million in the Prior Quarter. All disbursements are funded on the day they are presented to our bank using available cash on hand or draws on our revolving bank credit facility.

Our accounts receivable are primarily from purchasers of oil and natural gas ($627 million at March 31, 2007) and exploration and production companies which own interests in properties we operate ($147 million at March 31, 2007). This industry concentration has the potential to impact our overall exposure to credit risk, either positively or negatively, in that our customers may be similarly affected by changes in economic, industry or other conditions. We generally require letters of credit for receivables from customers which are judged to have sub-standard credit, unless the credit risk can otherwise be mitigated.

 

28


Table of Contents

Investing Transactions

Cash used in investing activities decreased to $1.869 billion during the Current Quarter, compared to $1.960 billion during the Prior Quarter. The following table shows our cash used in (provided by) investing activities during these periods ($ in millions):

 

    

Three Months Ended

March 31,

 
     2007     2006  

Oil and Natural Gas Investing Activities:

    

Acquisitions of oil and natural gas companies and proved properties, net of cash acquired

   $ 162     $ 412  

Acquisition of unproved properties

     258       546  

Exploration and development of oil and natural gas properties

     1,053       597  

Leasehold acquisitions

     148       173  

Geological and geophysical costs

     50       27  

Other oil and natural gas activities

     (1 )     2  
                

Total oil and natural gas investing activities

     1,670       1,757  
                

Other Investing Activities:

    

Additions to buildings and other fixed assets

     177       95  

Additions to drilling rig equipment

     35       193  

Proceeds from sale of drilling rigs and equipment

     (30 )     —    

Additions to investments

     17       29  

Proceeds from sale of investment in Pioneer Drilling Company `

     —         (159 )

Acquisition of trucking company, net of cash acquired

     —         45  

Deposits for acquisitions

     (7 )     —    

Sale of non-oil and natural gas assets

     7       —    
                

Total other investing activities

     199       203  
                

Total cash used in investing activities

   $ 1,869     $ 1,960  
                

Contractual Obligations

We have a $2.5 billion syndicated revolving bank credit facility which matures in February 2011. As of March 31, 2007, we had $1.153 billion in outstanding borrowings under this facility and had utilized $3 million of the facility for various letters of credit. Borrowings under the facility are collateralized by certain producing oil and natural gas properties and bear interest at either (i) the greater of the reference rate of Union Bank of California, N.A., or the federal funds effective rate plus 0.50% or (ii) London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR), at our option, plus a margin that varies from 0.875% to 1.50% per annum according to our senior unsecured long-term debt ratings. The collateral value and borrowing base are redetermined periodically. The unused portion of the facility is subject to a commitment fee that also varies according to our senior unsecured long-term debt ratings, from 0.125% to 0.30% per annum. Currently the commitment fee is 0.25% per annum. Interest is payable quarterly or, if LIBOR applies, it may be payable at more frequent intervals.

The credit facility agreement contains various covenants and restrictive provisions which limit our ability to incur additional indebtedness, make investments or loans and create liens. The credit facility agreement requires us to maintain an indebtedness to total capitalization ratio (as defined) not to exceed 0.65 to 1 and an indebtedness to EBITDA ratio (as defined) not to exceed 3.5 to 1. As defined by the credit facility, our indebtedness to total capitalization ratio was 0.43 to 1 and our indebtedness to EBITDA ratio was 1.86 to 1 at March 31, 2007. If we should fail to perform our obligations under these and other covenants, the revolving credit commitment could be terminated and any outstanding borrowings under the facility could be declared immediately due and payable. Such acceleration, if involving a principal amount of $10 million ($50 million in the case of our senior notes issued after 2004), would constitute an event of default under our senior note indentures which could in turn result in the acceleration of a significant portion of our senior note indebtedness. The credit facility agreement also has cross default provisions that apply to other indebtedness we may have with an outstanding principal amount in excess of $75 million.

 

29


Table of Contents

We have three secured hedging facilities maturing in 2011, each of which permits us to enter into cash-settled oil and natural gas commodity transactions, valued by the counterparty, for up to a maximum value. Outstanding transactions under each facility are collateralized by certain of our oil and natural gas properties that do not secure any of our other obligations. The hedging facilities are subject to a 1% per annum exposure fee, which is assessed quarterly based on the average of the daily negative fair value amounts of the hedges, if any, during the quarter. The hedging facilities contain the standard representations and default provisions that are typical of such agreements. The agreements also contain various restrictive provisions which govern the aggregate oil and natural gas production volumes that we are permitted to hedge under all of our agreements at any one time. The maximum permitted value of transactions under each facility and the fair values of outstanding transactions are shown below.

 

     Secured Hedging
Facilities
 
     #1    #2     #3  
     ($ in millions)  

Maximum permitted value of transactions under facility

   $ 750    $ 500     $ 500  

Fair value of outstanding transactions, as of March 31, 2007

   $ 10    $ (263 )   $ (77 )

Fair value of outstanding transactions, as of May 4, 2007

   $ —      $ (42 )   $ 49  

Two of our subsidiaries, Chesapeake Exploration Limited Partnership and Chesapeake Appalachia, L.L.C., are the borrowers under our revolving bank credit facility and Chesapeake Exploration Limited Partnership is the named party to our hedging facilities. The facilities are guaranteed by Chesapeake and all its other wholly owned subsidiaries except minor subsidiaries. Our revolving bank credit facility and secured hedging facilities do not contain material adverse change or adequate assurance covenants. Although the applicable interest rates and commitment fees in our bank credit facility fluctuate slightly based on our long-term senior unsecured credit ratings, the bank facility and the secured hedging facilities do not contain provisions which would trigger an acceleration of amounts due under the facilities or a requirement to post additional collateral in the event of a downgrade of our credit ratings.

In addition to outstanding revolving bank credit facility borrowings discussed above, as of March 31, 2007, senior notes represented approximately $7.218 billion of our long-term debt and consisted of the following ($ in millions):

 

7.5% Senior Notes due 2013

   $ 364  

7.625% Senior Notes due 2013

     500  

7.0% Senior Notes due 2014

     300  

7.5% Senior Notes due 2014

     300  

7.75% Senior Notes due 2015

     300  

6.375% Senior Notes due 2015

     600  

6.625% Senior Notes due 2016

     600  

6.875% Senior Notes due 2016

     670  

6.5% Senior Notes due 2017

     1,100  

6.25% Euro-denominated Senior Notes due 2017 (a)

     802  

6.25% Senior Notes due 2018

     600  

6.875% Senior Notes due 2020

     500  

2.75% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes due 2035

     690  

Discount on senior notes

     (99 )

Discount for interest rate derivatives

     (9 )
        
   $ 7,218  
        

(a) The principal amount shown is based on the dollar/euro exchange rate of $1.3374 to €1.00 as of March 31, 2007. See Note 2 of our financial statements for information on our related cross currency swap.

No scheduled principal payments are required under our senior notes until 2013, when $864 million is due. The holders of the 2.75% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes due 2035 may require us to repurchase all or a portion of these notes on November 15, 2015, 2020, 2025 and 2030 at 100% of the principal amount of these notes.

As of March 31, 2007 and currently, debt ratings for the senior notes are Ba2 by Moody’s Investor Service (stable outlook), BB by Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services (positive outlook) and BB by Fitch Ratings (stable outlook).

Our senior notes are unsecured senior obligations of Chesapeake and rank equally in right of payment with all of our other existing and future senior indebtedness and rank senior in right of payment with all of our future subordinated indebtedness. All of our wholly-owned subsidiaries, except minor subsidiaries, fully and unconditionally guarantee the notes jointly and severally on an unsecured basis. Senior notes issued before July 2005 are governed by indentures containing covenants that limit our ability and our restricted subsidiaries’ ability to

 

30


Table of Contents

incur additional indebtedness; pay dividends on our capital stock or redeem, repurchase or retire our capital stock or subordinated indebtedness; make investments and other restricted payments; incur liens; enter into sale-leaseback transactions; create restrictions on the payment of dividends or other amounts to us from our restricted subsidiaries; engage in transactions with affiliates; sell assets; and consolidate, merge or transfer assets. Senior notes issued after June 2005 are governed by indentures containing covenants that limit our ability and our restricted subsidiaries’ ability to incur certain secured indebtedness; enter into sale-leaseback transactions; and consolidate, merge or transfer assets. The debt incurrence covenants do not presently restrict our ability to borrow under or expand our secured credit facility. As of March 31, 2007, we estimate that secured commercial bank indebtedness of approximately $3.473 billion could have been incurred under the most restrictive indenture covenant.

Results of Operations — Three Months Ended March 31, 2007 vs. March 31, 2006

General. For the Current Quarter, Chesapeake had net income of $258 million, or $0.50 per diluted common share, on total revenues of $1.580 billion. This compares to net income of $624 million, or $1.44 per diluted common share, on total revenues of $1.944 billion during the Prior Quarter.

Oil and Natural Gas Sales. During the Current Quarter, oil and natural gas sales were $1.125 billion compared to $1.511 billion in the Prior Quarter. In the Current Quarter, Chesapeake produced 153.7 bcfe at a weighted average price of $9.33 per mcfe, compared to 136.8 bcfe produced in the Prior Quarter at a weighted average price of $9.60 per mcfe (weighted average prices exclude the effect of unrealized gains or (losses) on oil and natural gas derivatives of ($309) million and $198 million in the Current Quarter and Prior Quarter, respectively). In the Current Quarter, the decrease in prices resulted in a decrease in revenue of $41 million and increased production resulted in a $162 million increase, for a total increase in revenues of $121 million (excluding unrealized gains or losses on oil and natural gas derivatives). The increase in production from the Prior Quarter to the Current Quarter is due to the combination of production growth generated from drilling as well as acquisitions completed in 2006 and the Current Quarter.

For the Current Quarter, we realized an average price per barrel of oil of $61.13, compared to $57.12 in the Prior Quarter (weighted average prices for both quarters discussed exclude the effect of unrealized gains or losses on derivatives). Natural gas prices realized per mcf (excluding unrealized gains or losses on derivatives) were $9.26 and $9.61 in the Current Quarter and Prior Quarter, respectively. Realized gains or losses from our oil and natural gas derivatives resulted in a net increase in oil and natural gas revenues of $433 million, or $2.82 per mcfe, in the Current Quarter and $248 million, or $1.82 per mcfe, in the Prior Quarter.

The change in oil and natural gas prices has a significant impact on our oil and natural gas revenues and cash flows. Assuming the Current Quarter production levels, a change of $0.10 per mcf of natural gas sold would have resulted in an increase or decrease in revenues and cash flow of approximately $14 million and a change of $1.00 per barrel of oil sold would have resulted in an increase or decrease in revenues and cash flow of approximately $2 million without considering the effect of derivative activities.

The following table shows our production by region for the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter:

 

     For the Three Months Ended March 31,  
     2007     2006  
     Mmcfe    Percent     Mmcfe    Percent  

Mid-Continent

   81,705    53 %   73,924    54 %

Fort Worth Barnett Shale

   16,155    11     8,565    6  

Appalachian Basin

   11,080    7     10,293    8  

Permian and Delaware Basins

   12,706    8     12,094    9  

Ark-La-Tex

   12,860    8     11,590    8  

South Texas and Texas Gulf Coast

   19,144    13     20,286    15  
                      

Total production

   153,650    100 %   136,752    100 %
                      

Natural gas production represented approximately 92% of our total production volume on a natural gas equivalent basis in the Current Quarter, compared to 91% in the Prior Quarter.

Oil and Natural Gas Marketing Sales and Operating Expenses. Oil and natural gas marketing sales and operating expenses are from third parties that are owners in Chesapeake-operated wells. Chesapeake recognized $422 million in oil and natural gas marketing sales in the Current Quarter, with corresponding oil and natural gas marketing expenses of $407 million, for a net margin before depreciation of $15 million. This compares to sales of $404 million, expenses of $391 million and a net margin of $13 million in the Prior Quarter. In the Current Quarter, Chesapeake realized an increase in oil and natural gas marketing sales volumes related to the increase in production on Chesapeake-operated wells.

 

31


Table of Contents

Service Operations Revenue and Operating Expenses. Service operations revenue and expenses consist of third-party revenue and operating expenses related to our drilling and oilfield trucking operations. These operations have grown as a result of businesses we acquired and built in 2006. Chesapeake recognized $33 million in service operations revenue in the Current Quarter with corresponding service operations expense of $22 million, for a net margin before depreciation of $11 million. This compares to revenue of $29 million, expenses of $14 million and a net margin before depreciation of $15 million.

Production Expenses. Production expenses, which include lifting costs and ad valorem taxes, were $142 million in the Current Quarter compared to $119 million in the Prior Quarter. On a unit-of-production basis, production expenses were $0.93 per mcfe in the Current Quarter compared to $0.87 per mcfe in the Prior Quarter. The increase in the Current Quarter was primarily due to higher third-party field service costs, energy costs, fuel costs, ad valorem taxes and personnel costs. We expect that production expenses for 2007 will range from $0.90 to $1.00 per mcfe produced.

Production Taxes. Production taxes were $42 million in the Current Quarter compared to $55 million in the Prior Quarter. On a unit-of-production basis, production taxes were $0.27 per mcfe in the Current Quarter compared to $0.40 per mcfe in the Prior Quarter. The $13 million decrease in production taxes in the Current Quarter is due primarily to a price decrease of approximately $1.27 per mcfe (excluding gains or losses on derivatives) and an increase in qualified production tax exemptions in Texas which more than offset the 16.9 bcfe of increased production.

In general, production taxes are calculated using value-based formulas that produce higher per unit costs when oil and natural gas prices are higher. We expect production taxes for 2007 to range from $0.41 to $0.46 per mcfe based on NYMEX prices of $56.73 per barrel of oil and natural gas wellhead prices ranging from $7.40 to $8.40 per mcf.

General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative expenses, including stock-based compensation but excluding internal costs capitalized to our oil and natural gas properties, were $52 million in the Current Quarter and $29 million in the Prior Quarter. General and administrative expenses were $0.34 and $0.21 per mcfe for the Current Quarter and Prior Quarter, respectively. The increase in the Current Quarter was the result of the company’s overall growth as well as cost and wage inflation. Included in general and administrative expenses is stock-based compensation of $10 million and $6 million for the Current Quarter and Prior Quarter, respectively. This increase was mainly due to a higher number of unvested restricted shares outstanding during the Current Quarter. We anticipate that general and administrative expenses for 2007 will be between $0.33 and $0.40 per mcfe produced (including stock-based compensation ranging from $0.08 to $0.10 per mcfe).

Our stock-based compensation for employees and non-employee directors is in the form of restricted stock. We have awarded shares of restricted stock to employees since January 2004 and to non-employee directors since July 2005. Previously, stock-based compensation awards were in the form of stock options. Employee stock-based compensation awards vest over a period of four years. Our non-employee director awards vest over a period of three years.

The discussion of stock-based compensation in Note 1 to the financial statements included in Part I of this report provides additional detail on the accounting for and reporting of our stock options and restricted stock, as well as the effects of our adoption of SFAS 123(R).

Chesapeake follows the full-cost method of accounting under which all costs associated with property acquisition, exploration and development activities are capitalized. We capitalize internal costs that can be directly identified with our acquisition, exploration and development activities and do not include any costs related to production, general corporate overhead or similar activities. We capitalized $51 million and $35 million of internal costs in the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, respectively, directly related to our oil and natural gas property acquisition, exploration and development efforts.

Oil and Natural Gas Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization. Depreciation, depletion and amortization of oil and natural gas properties was $393 million and $305 million during the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, respectively. The average DD&A rate per mcfe, which is a function of capitalized costs, future development costs and the related underlying reserves in the periods presented, was $2.56 and $2.23 in the Current Quarter and in the Prior Quarter, respectively. The $0.33 increase in the average DD&A rate is primarily the result of higher drilling costs and higher costs associated with acquisitions, including the recognition of the tax effect of acquisition costs in excess of the tax basis acquired in certain corporate acquisitions. We expect the DD&A rate for 2007 to be between $2.40 and $2.60 per mcfe produced.

 

32


Table of Contents

Depreciation and Amortization of Other Assets. Depreciation and amortization of other assets was $36 million in the Current Quarter, compared to $24 million in the Prior Quarter. The increase in the Current Quarter was primarily the result of higher depreciation costs resulting from the acquisition of various gathering facilities, compression equipment and drilling rig equipment, the construction of new buildings at our corporate headquarters complex and at various field office locations and the purchase of additional information technology equipment and software in 2006 and the Current Quarter. Property and equipment costs are depreciated on a straight-line basis. Buildings are depreciated over 15 to 39 years, gathering facilities are depreciated over seven to 20 years, drilling rigs are depreciated over 15 years and all other property and equipment are depreciated over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which range from two to seven years. To the extent company-owned drilling rigs are used to drill our wells, a substantial portion of the depreciation is capitalized in oil and natural gas properties as exploration or development costs. We expect 2007 depreciation and amortization of other assets to be between $0.24 and $0.28 per mcfe produced.

Employee Retirement Expense. Our former President and Chief Operating Officer, Tom L. Ward, resigned as a director, officer and employee of the company effective February 10, 2006. Mr. Ward’s Resignation Agreement provided for the immediate vesting of all of his unvested equity awards, which consisted of options to purchase 724,615 shares of Chesapeake’s common stock at an average exercise price of $8.01 per share and 1,291,875 shares of restricted common stock. As a result of this vesting, we incurred an expense of $55 million in the Prior Quarter.

Interest and Other Income. Interest and other income was $9 million in the Current Quarter compared to $10 million in the Prior Quarter. The Current Quarter income consisted of $2 million of interest income, $6 million related to earnings of equity investees and $1 million of miscellaneous income. The Prior Quarter income consisted of $2 million of interest income, $5 million related to earnings of equity investees and a $3 million gain on sale of assets.

Interest Expense. Interest expense increased to $79 million in the Current Quarter compared to $73 million in the Prior Quarter as follows:

 

    

Three Months Ended

March 31,

 
     2007     2006  
     ($ in millions)  

Interest expense on senior notes and revolving bank credit facility

   $ 135     $ 102  

Capitalized interest

     (64 )     (31 )

Realized (gain) loss on interest rate derivatives

     2       (1 )

Unrealized (gain) loss on interest rate derivatives

     1       1  

Amortization of loan discount and other

     5       2  
                

Total interest expense

   $ 79     $ 73  
                

Average long-term borrowings

   $ 7,324     $ 5,775  
                

Interest expense, excluding unrealized gains or losses on derivatives and net of amounts capitalized, was $0.50 per mcfe in the Current Quarter compared to $0.52 per mcfe in the Prior Quarter. We expect interest expense for 2007 to be between $0.60 and $0.65 per mcfe produced (before considering the effect of interest rate derivatives).

Gain on Sale of Investment. In the Prior Quarter, Chesapeake sold its investment in publicly-traded Pioneer Drilling Company common stock, realizing proceeds of $159 million and a gain of $117 million. We owned 17% of the common stock of Pioneer, which we began acquiring in 2003.

Income Tax Expense. Chesapeake recorded income tax expense of $158 million in the Current Quarter, compared to income tax expense of $382 million in the Prior Quarter. Our effective income tax rate was 38% in the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter. Most of 2006 income tax expense was deferred, and we expect most of our 2007 income tax expense to be deferred.

Loss on Conversion/Exchange of Preferred Stock. Loss on conversion/exchange of preferred stock was $1 million in the Prior Quarter. The loss on the exchange represented the excess of the fair value of the common stock issued over the fair value of the securities issuable pursuant to the original conversion terms.

 

33


Table of Contents

Critical Accounting Policies

We consider accounting policies related to hedging, oil and natural gas properties, income taxes and business combinations to be critical policies. These policies are summarized in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

The Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) recently issued the following standards which were reviewed by Chesapeake to determine the potential impact on our financial statements upon adoption.

In June 2006, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation (FIN) No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109. FIN 48 provides guidance for recognizing and measuring uncertain tax positions, as defined in SFAS 109, Accounting for Income Taxes. FIN 48 prescribes a threshold condition that a tax position must meet for any of the benefit of the uncertain tax position to be recognized in the financial statements. Guidance is also provided regarding de-recognition, classification and disclosure of these uncertain tax positions. We adopted FIN 48 effective January 1, 2007. The effect of FIN 48 is more fully discussed in Note 1 of our financial statements included in Part I of this report.

In February 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 155, Accounting for Certain Hybrid Financial Instruments – an amendment of FASB Statements No. 133 and 140. SFAS 155 permits an entity to measure at fair value any financial instrument that contains an embedded derivative that otherwise would require bifurcation. This statement is effective for all financial instruments acquired or issued after the beginning of an entity’s first fiscal year that begins after September 15, 2006. SFAS 155 did not have a material effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, Fair Value Measurements. This statement defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. This statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. We are currently assessing the impact, if any, SFAS 157 will have on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. This statement permits entities to choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value. This statement expands the use of fair value measurement and applies to entities that elect the fair value option. The fair value option established by this statement permits all entities to choose to measure eligible items at fair value at specified election dates. This statement is effective as of the beginning of the first fiscal year that begins after November 15, 2007. We are currently assessing the impact, if any, the adoption of this statement will have on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Forward-Looking Statements

This report includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements give our current expectations or forecasts of future events. They include statements regarding oil and natural gas reserve estimates, planned capital expenditures, the drilling of oil and natural gas wells and future acquisitions, expected oil and natural gas production, cash flow and anticipated liquidity, business strategy and other plans and objectives for future operations and expected future expenses. Statements concerning the fair values of derivative contracts and their estimated contribution to our future results of operations are based upon market information as of a specific date. These market prices are subject to significant volatility.

Although we believe the expectations and forecasts reflected in these and other forward-looking statements are reasonable, we can give no assurance they will prove to have been correct. They can be affected by inaccurate assumptions or by known or unknown risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from expected results are described under “Risk Factors” in Item 1A of our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006 and include:

 

   

the volatility of oil and natural gas prices,

 

   

our level of indebtedness,

 

34


Table of Contents
   

the strength and financial resources of our competitors,

 

   

the availability of capital on an economic basis to fund reserve replacement costs,

 

   

our ability to replace reserves and sustain production,

 

   

uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of oil and natural gas reserves and projecting future rates of production and the timing of development expenditures,

 

   

uncertainties in evaluating oil and natural gas reserves of acquired properties and associated potential liabilities,

 

   

inability to effectively integrate and operate acquired companies and properties,

 

   

unsuccessful exploration and development drilling,

 

   

declines in the value of our oil and natural gas properties resulting in ceiling test write-downs,

 

   

lower prices realized on oil and natural gas sales and collateral required to secure hedging liabilities resulting from our commodity price risk management activities,

 

   

lower oil and natural gas prices negatively affecting our ability to borrow,

 

   

drilling and operating risks,

 

   

adverse effects of governmental regulation, and

 

   

losses possible from pending or future litigation.

We caution you not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this report, and we undertake no obligation to update this information. We urge you to carefully review and consider the disclosures made in this report and our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission that attempt to advise interested parties of the risks and factors that may affect our business.

ITEM 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

Oil and Natural Gas Hedging Activities

Our results of operations and operating cash flows are impacted by changes in market prices for oil and natural gas. To mitigate a portion of the exposure to adverse market changes, we have entered into various derivative instruments. As of March 31, 2007, our oil and natural gas derivative instruments were comprised of swaps, cap-swaps, basis protection swaps, call options, collars and three-way collars. These instruments allow us to predict with greater certainty the effective oil and natural gas prices to be received for our hedged production. Although derivatives often fail to achieve 100% effectiveness for accounting purposes, we believe our derivative instruments continue to be highly effective in achieving the risk management objectives for which they were intended.

 

   

For swap instruments, Chesapeake receives a fixed price for the hedged commodity and pays a floating market price to the counterparty. The fixed-price payment and the floating-price payment are netted, resulting in a net amount due to or from the counterparty.

 

   

For cap-swaps, Chesapeake receives a fixed price and pays a floating market price. The fixed price received by Chesapeake includes a premium in exchange for a “cap” limiting the counterparty’s exposure. In other words, there is no limit to Chesapeake’s exposure but there is a limit to the downside exposure of the counterparty.

 

   

Basis protection swaps are arrangements that guarantee a price differential for oil or natural gas from a specified delivery point. For Mid-Continent basis protection swaps, which have negative differentials to NYMEX, Chesapeake receives a payment from the counterparty if the price differential is greater than the stated terms of the contract and pays the counterparty if the price differential is less than the stated terms of the contract. For Appalachian Basin basis protection swaps, which have positive differentials to NYMEX, Chesapeake receives a payment from the counterparty if the price differential is less than the stated terms of the contract and pays the counterparty if the price differential is greater than the stated terms of the contract.

 

   

For call options, Chesapeake receives a premium from the counterparty in exchange for the sale of a call option. If the market price exceeds the fixed price of the call option, Chesapeake pays the counterparty such excess. If the market price settles below the fixed price of the call option, no payment is due from Chesapeake.

 

35


Table of Contents
   

Collars contain a fixed floor price (put) and ceiling price (call). If the market price exceeds the call strike price or falls below the put strike price, Chesapeake receives the fixed price and pays the market price. If the market price is between the call and the put strike price, no payments are due from either party.

 

   

A three-way collar contract consists of a standard collar contract plus a written put option with a strike price below the floor price of the collar. In addition to the settlement of the collar, the put option requires us to make a payment to the counterparty equal to the difference between the put option price and the settlement price if the settlement price for any settlement period is below the put option strike price.

Chesapeake enters into counter-swaps from time to time for the purpose of locking-in the value of a swap. Under the counter-swap, Chesapeake receives a floating price for the hedged commodity and pays a fixed price to the counterparty. The counter-swap is 100% effective in locking-in the value of a swap since subsequent changes in the market value of the swap are entirely offset by subsequent changes in the market value of the counter-swap. We refer to this locked-in value as a locked swap. Generally, at the time Chesapeake enters into a counter-swap, Chesapeake removes the original swap’s designation as a cash flow hedge and classifies the original swap as a non-qualifying hedge under SFAS 133. The reason for this new designation is that collectively the swap and the counter-swap no longer hedge the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows. Instead, the swap and counter-swap effectively lock-in a specific gain (or loss) that will be unaffected by subsequent variability in oil and natural gas prices. Any locked-in gain or loss is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income and reclassified to oil and natural gas sales in the month of related production.

With respect to counter-swaps that are designed to lock-in the value of cap-swaps, the counter-swap is effective in locking-in the value of the cap-swap until the floating price reaches the cap (or floor) stipulated in the cap-swap agreement. The value of the counter-swap will increase (or decrease), but in the opposite direction, as the value of the cap-swap decreases (or increases) until the floating price reaches the pre-determined cap (or floor) stipulated in the cap-swap agreement. However, because of the written put option embedded in the cap-swap, the changes in value of the cap-swap are not completely effective in offsetting changes in value of the corresponding counter-swap. Changes in the value of cap-swaps and counter-swaps are recorded as adjustments to oil and natural gas sales.

In accordance with FASB Interpretation No. 39, to the extent that a legal right of setoff exists, Chesapeake nets the value of its derivative arrangements with the same counterparty in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Gains or losses from derivative transactions are reflected as adjustments to oil and natural gas sales on the condensed consolidated statements of operations. Realized gains (losses) included in oil and natural gas sales were $433 million and $248 million in the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, respectively. Pursuant to SFAS 133, certain derivatives do not qualify for designation as cash flow hedges. Changes in the fair value of these non-qualifying derivatives that occur prior to their maturity (i.e., temporary fluctuations in value) are reported currently in the condensed consolidated statements of operations as unrealized gains (losses) within oil and natural gas sales. Unrealized gains (losses) included in oil and natural gas sales were ($309) million and $198 million in the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, respectively.

Following provisions of SFAS 133, changes in the fair value of derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges, to the extent they are effective in offsetting cash flows attributable to the hedged risk, are recorded in other comprehensive income until the hedged item is recognized in earnings. Any change in fair value resulting from ineffectiveness is recognized currently in oil and natural gas sales as unrealized gains (losses). We recorded an unrealized gain (loss) on ineffectiveness of ($54) million and $99 million in the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, respectively.

 

36


Table of Contents

As of March 31, 2007, we had the following open oil and natural gas derivative instruments (excluding derivatives assumed through our acquisition of CNR in November 2005) designed to hedge a portion of our oil and natural gas production for periods after March 2007:

 

     Volume     Weighted
Average
Fixed
Price to be
Received
(Paid)
    Weighted
Average
Put
Fixed
Price
   Weighted
Average
Call
Fixed
Price
   Weighted
Average
Differential
    SFAS 133
Hedge
   Net
Premiums
($ in
millions)
   Fair
Value at
March 31,
2007 ($ in
millions)
 

Natural Gas (mmbtu):

                    

Swaps:

                    

2Q 2007

   17,890,000     $ 6.70     $ —      $ —      $ —       Yes    $ —      $ (19 )

3Q 2007

   18,820,000       6.99       —        —        —       Yes      —        (21 )

4Q 2007

   34,130,000       8.01       —        —        —       Yes      —        (34 )

1Q 2008

   64,382,500       10.01       —        —        —       Yes      —        14  

2Q 2008

   51,642,500       8.34       —        —        —       Yes      —        16  

3Q 2008

   52,210,000       8.40       —        —        —       Yes      —        11  

4Q 2008

   50,990,000       9.02       —        —        —       Yes      —        12  

Basis Protection Swaps

                    

(Mid-Continent):

                    

2Q 2007

   47,775,000       —         —        —        (0.47 )   No      —        32  

3Q 2007

   48,300,000       —         —        —        (0.47 )   No      —        13  

4Q 2007

   40,370,000       —         —        —        (0.37 )   No      —        29  

1Q 2008

   33,215,000       —         —        —        (0.30 )   No      —        30  

2Q 2008

   26,845,000       —         —        —        (0.25 )   No      —        18  

3Q 2008

   27,140,000       —         —        —        (0.25 )   No      —        16  

4Q 2008

   31,410,000       —         —        —        (0.28 )   No      —        22  

1Q 2009

   26,100,000       —         —        —        (0.32 )   No      —        16  

2Q 2009

   20,020,000       —         —        —        (0.28 )   No      —        3  

3Q 2009

   20,240,000       —         —        —        (0.28 )   No      —        3  

4Q 2009

   20,240,000       —         —        —        (0.28 )   No      —        5  

Basis Protection Swaps

                    

(Appalachian Basin):

                    

2Q 2007

   9,100,000       —         —        —        0.35     No      —        —    

3Q 2007

   9,200,000       —         —        —        0.35     No      —        —    

4Q 2007

   9,200,000       —         —        —        0.35     No      —        —    

1Q 2008

   9,100,000       —         —        —        0.35     No      —        (1 )

2Q 2008

   9,100,000       —         —        —        0.35     No      —        —    

3Q 2008

   9,200,000       —         —        —        0.35     No      —        —    

4Q 2008

   9,200,000       —         —        —        0.35     No      —        —    

1Q 2009

   4,500,000       —         —        —        0.31     No      —        —    

2Q 2009

   4,550,000       —         —        —        0.31     No      —        —    

3Q 2009

   4,600,000       —         —        —        0.31     No      —        —    

4Q 2009

   4,600,000       —         —        —        0.31     No      —        —    

Cap-Swaps:

                    

2Q 2007

   49,470,000       8.32       5.87      —        —       No      —        28  

3Q 2007

   54,270,000       8.49       5.89      —        —       No      —        (1 )

4Q 2007

   48,490,000       9.33       5.92      —        —       No      —        (9 )

1Q 2008

   45,500,000       10.51       6.06      —        —       No      —        (4 )

2Q 2008

   47,320,000       9.24       6.17      —        —       No      —        1  

3Q 2008

   47,840,000       9.34       6.17      —        —       No      —        (7 )

4Q 2008

   40,520,000       9.93       6.14      —        —       No      —        (6 )

1Q 2008

   18,000,000       10.09       6.10      —        —       No      —        (7 )

2Q 2008

   15,470,000       8.52       6.12      —        —       No      —        (5 )

3Q 2008

   15,640,000       8.64       6.12      —        —       No      —        (6 )

4Q 2008.

   15,450,000       9.20       6.12      —        —       No      —        (6 )

Counter Swaps:

                    

2Q 2007

   (1,375,000 )     (7.73 )     —        —        —       No      —        —    

Call Options:

                    

2Q 2007

   14,560,000       —         —        9.50      —       No      7      (1 )

3Q 2007

   21,430,000       —         —        9.30      —       No      11      (11 )

4Q 2007

   27,280,000       —         —        9.62      —       No      15      (28 )

1Q 2008

   28,210,000       —         —        10.24      —       No      19      (42 )

2Q 2008

   25,480,000       —         —        10.44      —       No      15      (12 )

3Q 2008

   25,760,000       —         —        10.44      —       No      16      (16 )

4Q 2008

   24,540,000       —         —        10.46      —       No      15      (25 )

1Q 2009

   15,300,000       —         —        11.44      —       No      6      (17 )

2Q 2009

   12,740,000       —         —        11.54      —       No      5      (4 )

3Q 2009

   12,880,000       —         —        11.54      —       No      5      (7 )

4Q 2009

   12,880,000       —         —        11.54      —       No      5      (9 )

 

37


Table of Contents
     Volume    Weighted
Average Fixed
Price to be
Received
(Paid)
   Weighted
Average Put
Fixed Price
   Weighted
Average
Call
Fixed
Price
   Weighted
Average
Differential
   SFAS
133
Hedge
   Net
Premiums
($ in
millions)
   Fair
Value at
March 31,
2007 ($ in
millions)
 

Collars:

                       

2Q 2007

   2,730,000    $ —      $ 7.00    $ 8.35    $ —      Yes    $ —      $ —    

3Q 2007

   2,760,000      —        7.00      8.35      —      Yes      —        (1 )

4Q 2007

   5,810,000      —        7.26      9.06      —      Yes      —        (5 )

1Q 2008

   7,590,000      —        7.32      9.17      —      Yes      —        (10 )

2Q 2008

   910,000      —        7.50      8.65      —      Yes      —        —    

3Q 2008

   920,000      —        7.50      8.65      —      Yes      —        —    

4Q 2008

   920,000      —        7.50      8.65      —      Yes      —        (1 )

Three-Way Collars:

                       

2Q 2007

   19,110,000      —        6.73 /5.07      8.18      —      No      —        (4 )

3Q 2007

   19,320,000      —        6.73 / 5.07      8.18      —      No      —        (11 )

4Q 2007

   13,830,000      —        7.08 / 5.28      8.80      —      No      —        (12 )

1Q 2008

   10,920,000      —        7.40 / 5.46      9.35      —      No      —        (15 )

1Q 2009

   4,500,000      —        7.50 / 6.00      10.72      —      No      —        (4 )

2Q 2009

   4,550,000      —        7.50 / 6.00      10.72      —      No      —        1  

3Q 2009

   4,600,000      —        7.50 / 6.00      10.72      —      No      —        1  

4Q 2009

   4,600,000      —        7.50 / 6.00      10.72      —      No      —        (1 )
                                 

Total Natural Gas

                       119      (91 )
                                 

Oil (bbls):

                       

Swaps:

                       

2Q 2007

   910,000      69.55      —        —        —      Yes      —        2  

3Q 2007

   920,000      69.24      —        —        —      Yes      —        —    

4Q 2007

   920,000      68.85      —        —        —      Yes      —        (1 )

1Q 2008

   819,000      70.29      —        —        —      Yes      —        —    

2Q 2008

   819,000      69.89      —        —        —      Yes      —        —    

3Q 2008

   828,000      69.48      —        —        —      Yes      —        (1 )

4Q 2008

   736,000      68.55      —        —        —      Yes      —        (1 )

1Q 2009

   45,000      66.64      —        —        —      Yes      —        —    

2Q 2009

   45,500      66.27      —        —        —      Yes      —        —    

3Q 2009

   46,000      65.92      —        —        —      Yes      —        —    

4Q 2009

   46,000      65.56      —        —        —      Yes      —        —    

Cap-Swaps:

                       

2Q 2007

   728,000      73.30      55.63      —        —      No      —        4  

3Q 2007

   736,000      74.58      55.63      —        —      No      —        3  

4Q 2007

   736,000      74.98      55.63      —        —      No      —        2  

1Q 2008

   728,000      75.71      53.44      —        —      No      —        1  

2Q 2008

   728,000      75.90      53.44      —        —      No      —        1  

3Q 2008

   736,000      76.02      53.44      —        —      No      —        1  

4Q 2008

   736,000      76.09      53.44      —        —      No      —        1  

1Q 2009

   360,000      76.23      52.50      —        —      No      —        —    

2Q 2009

   364,000      76.53      52.50      —        —      No      —        —    

3Q 2009

   368,000      76.72      52.50      —        —      No      —        —    

4Q 2009

   368,000      76.83      52.50      —        —      No      —        —    

Call Options:

                       

1Q 2008

   182,000      —        —        75.00      —      No      1      (1 )

2Q 2008

   182,000      —        —        75.00      —      No      1      (1 )

3Q 2008

   184,000      —        —        75.00      —      No      1      (1 )

4Q 2008

   184,000      —        —        75.00      —      No      1      (1 )

1Q 2009

   180,000      —        —        75.00      —      No      1      (1 )

2Q 2009

   182,000      —        —        75.00      —      No      1      (1 )

3Q 2009

   184,000      —        —        75.00      —      No      1      (1 )

4Q 2009

   184,000      —        —        75.00      —      No      1      (1 )
                                 

Total Oil

                       8      4  
                                 

Total Natural Gas and Oil

                     $ 127    $ (87 )
                                 

In 2006 and 2007, Chesapeake lifted a portion of its 2007, 2008 and 2009 hedges and as a result has approximately $500 million of deferred hedging gains as of March 31, 2007. These gains have been recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income or as an unrealized gain in oil and natural gas sales. For amounts originally recorded in other comprehensive income, the gain will be recognized in oil and natural gas sales in the month of the hedged production.

 

38


Table of Contents

We assumed certain liabilities related to open derivative positions in connection with our acquisition of Columbia Natural Resources, LLC in November 2005. In accordance with SFAS 141, these derivative positions were recorded at fair value in the purchase price allocation as a liability of $592 million. The recognition of the derivative liability and other assumed liabilities resulted in an increase in the total purchase price which was allocated to the assets acquired. Because of this accounting treatment, only cash settlements for changes in fair value subsequent to the acquisition date for the derivative positions assumed result in adjustments to our oil and natural gas revenues upon settlement. For example, if the fair value of the derivative positions assumed do not change, then upon the sale of the underlying production and corresponding settlement of the derivative positions, cash would be paid to the counterparties and there would be no adjustment to oil and natural gas revenues related to the derivative positions. If, however, the actual sales price is different from the price assumed in the original fair value calculation, the difference would be reflected as either a decrease or increase in oil and natural gas revenues, depending upon whether the sales price was higher or lower, respectively, than the prices assumed in the original fair value calculation. For accounting purposes, the net effect of these acquired hedges is that we hedged the production volumes at market prices on the date of our acquisition of CNR.

Pursuant to Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 149, Amendment of SFAS 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, the derivative instruments assumed in connection with the CNR acquisition are deemed to contain a significant financing element and all cash flows associated with these positions are reported as financing activity in the statement of cash flows for the periods in which settlement occurs.

The following details the assumed CNR derivatives remaining as of March 31, 2007:

 

     Volume    Weighted
Average Fixed
Price to be
Received (Paid)
   Weighted
Average
Put
Fixed
Price
   Weighted
Average
Call
Fixed
Price
   SFAS 133
Hedge
   Fair
Value at
March 31,
2007 ($ in
millions)
 

Natural Gas (mmbtu):

                 

Swaps:

                 

2Q 2007

   10,465,000    $ 4.82    $ —      $ —      Yes    $ (30 )

3Q 2007

   10,580,000      4.82      —        —      Yes      (34 )

4Q 2007

   10,580,000      4.82      —        —      Yes      (42 )

1Q 2008

   9,555,000      4.68      —        —      Yes      (47 )

2Q 2008

   9,555,000      4.68      —        —      Yes      (30 )

3Q 2008

   9,660,000      4.68      —        —      Yes      (31 )

4Q 2008

   9,660,000      4.66      —        —      Yes      (37 )

1Q 2009

   4,500,000      5.18      —        —      Yes      (17 )

2Q 2009

   4,550,000      5.18      —        —      Yes      (10 )

3Q 2009

   4,600,000      5.18      —        —      Yes      (11 )

4Q 2009

   4,600,000      5.18      —        —      Yes      (13 )

Collars:

                 

1Q 2009

   900,000      —        4.50      6.00    Yes      (3 )

2Q 2009

   910,000      —        4.50      6.00    Yes      (2 )

3Q 2009

   920,000      —        4.50      6.00    Yes      (2 )

4Q 2009

   920,000      —        4.50      6.00    Yes      (2 )
                       

Total Natural Gas

                  $ (311 )
                       

We have established the fair value of all derivative instruments using estimates of fair value reported by our counterparties and subsequently evaluated internally using established index prices and other sources. The actual contribution to our future results of operations will be based on the market prices at the time of settlement and may be more or less than the fair value estimates used at March 31, 2007.

Based upon the market prices at March 31, 2007, we expect to transfer approximately $94 million (net of income taxes) of the gain included in the balance in accumulated other comprehensive income to earnings during the next 12 months in the related month of production. All transactions hedged as of March 31, 2007 are expected to mature by December 31, 2009.

 

39


Table of Contents

Additional information concerning the fair value of our oil and natural gas derivative instruments, including CNR derivatives assumed, is as follows:

 

     2007  
     ($ in millions)  

Fair value of contracts outstanding, as of January 1

   $ 345  

Change in fair value of contracts during the period

     (161 )

Fair value of contracts when entered into during the period

     (114 )

Contracts realized or otherwise settled during the period

     (433 )

Fair value of contracts when closed during the period

     (35 )
        

Fair value of contracts outstanding, as of March 31

   $ (398 )
        

The change in the fair value of our derivative instruments since January 1, 2007 resulted from the settlement of derivatives for a realized gain, as well as an increase in natural gas prices. Derivative instruments reflected as current in the condensed consolidated balance sheet represent the estimated fair value of derivative instrument settlements scheduled to occur over the subsequent twelve-month period based on market prices for oil and natural gas as of the condensed consolidated balance sheet date. The derivative settlement amounts are not due and payable until the month in which the related underlying hedged transaction occurs.

Interest Rate Risk

The table below presents principal cash flows and related weighted average interest rates by expected maturity dates. As of March 31, 2007, the fair value of the fixed-rate long-term debt has been estimated based on quoted market prices.

 

     Years of Maturity  
     2007    2008    2009    2010    2011     Thereafter     Total     Fair
Value
 
     ($ in billions)  

Liabilities:

                    

Long-term debt-fixed-rate(a)

   $ —      $ —      $ —      $ —      $ —       $ 7.327     $ 7.327     $ 7.444  

Average interest rate

     —        —        —        —        —         6.5 %     6.5 %     6.5 %

Long-term debt-variable rate

   $ —      $ —      $ —      $ —      $ 1.153     $ —       $ 1.153     $ 1.153  

Average interest rate

     —        —        —        —        6.7 %     —         6.7 %     6.7 %

 

(a) This amount does not include the discount included in long-term debt of ($99) million and the discount for interest rate swaps of ($9) million.

Changes in interest rates affect the amount of interest we earn on our cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments and the interest rate we pay on borrowings under our revolving bank credit facility. All of our other long-term indebtedness is fixed rate and, therefore, does not expose us to the risk of earnings or cash flow loss due to changes in market interest rates. However, changes in interest rates do affect the fair value of our debt.

Interest Rate Derivatives

We use interest rate derivatives to mitigate our exposure to the volatility in interest rates. For interest rate derivative instruments designated as fair value hedges (in accordance with SFAS 133), changes in fair value are recorded on the condensed consolidated balance sheets as assets (liabilities), and the debt’s carrying value amount is adjusted by the change in the fair value of the debt subsequent to the initiation of the derivative. Changes in the fair value of derivative instruments not qualifying as fair value hedges are recorded currently as adjustments to interest expense.

Gains or losses from certain derivative transactions are reflected as adjustments to interest expense on the condensed consolidated statements of operations. Realized gains (losses) included in interest expense were ($2) million and $1 million in the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, respectively. Pursuant to SFAS 133, certain derivatives do not qualify for designation as fair value hedges. Changes in the fair value of these non-qualifying derivatives that occur prior to their maturity (i.e., temporary fluctuations in value) are reported currently in the condensed consolidated statements of operations as unrealized gains (losses) within interest expense. Unrealized gains (losses) included in interest expense were ($1) million and ($1) million, in the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, respectively.

 

40


Table of Contents

As of March 31, 2007, the following interest rate swaps used to convert a portion of our long-term fixed-rate debt to floating-rate debt were outstanding:

 

Term

  

Notional

Amount

  

Fixed

Rate

   

Floating Rate

   Fair Value  
                     ($ in millions)  

September 2004 – August 2012

   $ 75,000,000    9.000 %   6 month LIBOR plus 452 basis points    $ (3 )

July 2005 – January 2015

   $ 150,000,000    7.750 %   6 month LIBOR plus 289 basis points      (5 )

July 2005 – June 2014

   $ 150,000,000    7.500 %   6 month LIBOR plus 282 basis points      (5 )

September 2005 – August 2014

   $ 250,000,000    7.000 %   6 month LIBOR plus 205.5 basis points      (6 )

October 2005 – June 2015

   $ 200,000,000    6.375 %   6 month LIBOR plus 112 basis points      (2 )

October 2005 – January 2018

   $ 250,000,000    6.250 %   6 month LIBOR plus 99 basis points      (5 )

December 2006 – July 2013

   $ 250,000,000    7.625 %   6 month LIBOR plus 266.5 basis points      (2 )

January 2007 – July 2013

   $ 250,000,000    7.625 %   6 month LIBOR plus 251 basis points      1  

February 2007 – August 2017

   $ 250,000,000    6.500 %   6 month LIBOR plus 124.5 basis points      1  
                
           $ (26 )
                

In the Current Quarter, we sold call options to a counterparty with respect to two of the interest rate swaps above and received $4 million in premiums. If exercised, the call option on the 7.625% interest rate swap gives the counterparty the right to terminate the interest rate swap on July 12, 2007 for a payment to Chesapeake of $2 million. The call option on the 6.50% interest rate swap gives the counterparty the right to terminate the interest rate swap on August 15, 2007 for a payment of $2 million to Chesapeake.

In the Current Quarter, we closed one interest rate swap for a gain totaling $1 million. This interest rate swap was designated as a fair value hedge, and the settlement amount received will be amortized as a reduction to realized interest expense over the remaining terms of the related senior notes.

Foreign Currency Derivatives

On December 6, 2006, we issued €600 million of 6.25% Euro-denominated Senior Notes due 2017. Concurrent with the issuance of the Euro-denominated senior notes, we entered into a cross currency swap to mitigate our exposure to fluctuations in the euro relative to the dollar over the term of the notes. Under the terms of the cross currency swap, on each semi-annual interest payment date, the counterparties will pay Chesapeake €19 million and Chesapeake will pay the counterparties $30 million, which will yield an annual dollar-equivalent interest rate of 7.491%. Upon maturity of the notes, the counterparties will pay Chesapeake €600 million and Chesapeake will pay the counterparties $800 million. The terms of the cross currency swap were based on the dollar/euro exchange rate on the issuance date of $1.3325 to €1.00. Through the cross currency swap, we have eliminated any potential variability in Chesapeake’s expected cash flows related to changes in foreign exchange rates and therefore the swap qualifies as a cash flow hedge under SFAS 133. The euro-denominated debt is recorded in notes payable ($802 million at March 31, 2007) using an exchange rate of $1.3374 to €1.00. The fair value of the cross currency swap is recorded on the consolidated balance sheet as a liability of $20 million at March 31, 2007. The translation adjustment to notes payable is completely offset by the fair value of the cross currency swap and therefore there is no impact to the consolidated statement of operations. The remaining value of the cross currency swap related to future interest payments is reported in other comprehensive income.

ITEM 4. Controls and Procedures

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by Chesapeake in reports filed or submitted by it under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. At the end of the period covered by this report, we carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of Chesapeake management, including Chesapeake’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of Chesapeake’s disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Securities Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(b). Based upon that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective.

No changes in Chesapeake’s internal control over financial reporting occurred during the Current Quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, Chesapeake’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

41


Table of Contents

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

Chesapeake is currently involved in various disputes incidental to its business operations. Certain legal actions brought by royalty owners are discussed in Item 3 of our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006. Reference also is made to “Litigation” in Note 3 of the notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements included in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q, which is incorporated herein by reference. Management is of the opinion that the final resolution of currently pending or threatened litigation is not likely to have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

Our business has many risks. Factors that could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, operating results or liquidity and the trading price of our common stock, preferred stock or senior notes are described under “Risk Factors” in Item 1A of our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006. This information should be considered carefully, together with other information in this report and other reports and materials we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

The following table presents information about repurchases of our common stock during the three months ended March 31, 2007:

 

Period

  

Total Number

of Shares

Purchased(a)

  

Average

Price Paid

Per Share(a)

  

Total Number of

Shares Purchased

as Part of Publicly

Announced Plans

or Programs

  

Maximum Number

of Shares That May

Yet Be Purchased

Under the Plans

or Programs(b)

January 1, 2007 through January 31, 2007

   243,269    $ 27.982    —      —  

February 1, 2007 through February 28, 2007

   4,271      30.337    —      —  

March 1, 2007 through March 31, 2007

   5,834      30.852    —      —  
                     

Total

   253,374    $ 28.088    —      —  
                     

 

(a) Includes the deemed surrender to the company of 5,798 shares of common stock to pay the exercise price in connection with the exercise of employee stock options and the surrender to the company of 247,576 shares of common stock to pay withholding taxes in connection with the vesting of employee restricted stock.

 

(b) We make matching contributions to our 401(k) plan and 401(k) make-up plan using Chesapeake common stock which is held in treasury or is purchased by the respective plan trustees in the open market. The plans contain no limitation on the number of shares that may be purchased for purposes of company contributions.

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Not applicable.

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

Not applicable.

Item 5. Other Information

Not applicable.

 

42


Table of Contents

Item 6. Exhibits

The following exhibits are filed as a part of this report:

 

Exhibit

Number

  

Description

3.1.1    Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1.1 to Chesapeake’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2006.
3.1.2    Certificate of Designation for Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, as amended. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1.2 to Chesapeake’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2006.
3.1.3*    Certificate of Designation of 4.125% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock, as amended.
3.1.4    Certificate of Designation of 5% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock (Series 2005B). Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Chesapeake’s current report on Form 8-K filed November 9, 2005.
3.1.5    Certificate of Designation of 5% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock (Series 2005), as amended. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1.6 to Chesapeake’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2005.
3.1.6    Certificate of Designation of 4.5% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Chesapeake’s current report on Form 8-K filed September 15, 2005.
3.1.7    Certificate of Designation of 6.25% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Chesapeake’s current report on Form 8-K dated June 30, 2006.
3.2    Chesapeake’s Amended and Restated Bylaws. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to Chesapeake’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003.
12*    Computation of Ratios of Earnings to Fixed Charges and to Combined Fixed Charges and Preferred Stock Dividends.
31.1*    Aubrey K. McClendon, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2*    Marcus C. Rowland, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.1*    Aubrey K. McClendon, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.2*    Marcus C. Rowland, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

* Filed herewith.

 

43


Table of Contents

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.

 

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION
(Registrant)
By:   /s/ AUBREY K. MCCLENDON
 

Aubrey K. McClendon

  Chairman of the Board and
  Chief Executive Officer

 

By:   /s/ MARCUS C. ROWLAND
  Marcus C. Rowland
  Executive Vice President and
  Chief Financial Officer

Date: May 8, 2007

 

44


Table of Contents

INDEX TO EXHIBITS

 

Exhibit

Number

  

Description

3.1.1    Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1.1 to Chesapeake’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2006.
3.1.2    Certificate of Designation for Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, as amended. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1.2 to Chesapeake’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2006.
3.1.3*    Certificate of Designation of 4.125% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock, as amended.
3.1.4    Certificate of Designation of 5% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock (Series 2005B). Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Chesapeake’s current report on Form 8-K filed November 9, 2005.
3.1.5    Certificate of Designation of 5% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock (Series 2005), as amended. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1.6 to Chesapeake’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2005.
3.1.6    Certificate of Designation of 4.5% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Chesapeake’s current report on Form 8-K filed September 15, 2005.
3.1.7    Certificate of Designation of 6.25% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Chesapeake’s current report on Form 8-K dated June 30, 2006.
3.2    Chesapeake’s Amended and Restated Bylaws. Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to Chesapeake’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003.
12*    Computation of Ratios of Earnings to Fixed Charges and to Combined Fixed Charges and Preferred Stock Dividends.
31.1*    Aubrey K. McClendon, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2*    Marcus C. Rowland, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.1*    Aubrey K. McClendon, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.2*    Marcus C. Rowland, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

* Filed herewith.

 

45