AXAS 10-Q Q3 09.30.2013


 



UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
ý
 
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2013
 
o
 
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM ______ TO ______
 
 
COMMISSION FILE NUMBER: 001-16071
 
 
ABRAXAS PETROLEUM CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Nevada
 
74-2584033
(State of Incorporation)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
18803 Meisner Drive, San Antonio, TX 78258
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
 
210-490-4788
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
 
Not Applicable
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)
 
 
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 the filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes ý    No o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).        Yes ýNo ¨
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See definition of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check One)
Large accelerated filer        o
Accelerated filer       x
Non-accelerated filer      o
(Do not mark if a smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting company    o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes   ¨No ý

The number of shares of the issuer’s common stock outstanding as of November 6, 2013 was 92,863,744.

1



Forward-Looking Information
 
We make forward-looking statements throughout this report.  Whenever you read a statement that is not simply a statement of historical fact (such as statements including words like “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “will,” “plan,” “seek,” “may,” “estimate,” “could,” “potentially” or similar expressions), you must remember that these are forward-looking statements, and that our expectations may not be correct, even though we believe they are reasonable.  The forward-looking information contained in this report is generally located in the material set forth under the headings “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” but may be found in other locations as well.  These forward-looking statements generally relate to our plans and objectives for future operations and are based upon our management’s reasonable estimates of future results or trends.  The factors that may affect our expectations regarding our operations include, among others, the following:
the prices we receive for our production and the effectiveness of our hedging activities;
our success in development, exploitation and exploration activities;
The availability of capital;
our ability to make planned capital expenditures;
declines in our production of oil and gas;
our ability to procure services and equipment for our drilling and completion activities;
our restrictive debt covenants;
political and economic conditions in oil producing countries, especially those in the Middle East;
price and availability of alternative fuels;
our acquisition and divestiture activities;
weather conditions and events;
the proximity, capacity, cost and availability of pipelines and other transportation facilities; and
other factors discussed elsewhere in this report.


GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Unless otherwise indicated in this report, gas volumes are stated at the legal pressure base of the State or area in which the reserves are located at 60 degrees Fahrenheit.  Oil and gas equivalents are determined using the ratio of six Mcf of gas to one barrel of oil, condensate or natural gas liquids.
 
The following definitions shall apply to the technical terms used in this report.
 
Terms used to describe quantities of oil and gas:
 
Bbl” – barrel or barrels.
 
Bcf” – billion cubic feet of gas.
 
Bcfe” – billion cubic feet of gas equivalent.
 
Boe” – barrels of oil equivalent.

MBbl” – thousand barrels.

MBoe thousand barrels of oil equivalent.

2



 
Mcf” – thousand cubic feet of gas.
 
Mcfe” – thousand cubic feet of gas equivalent.
 
MMBbl” – million barrels.
 
“MMBoe” – million barrels of oil equivalent.
 
MMBtu” – million British Thermal Units of gas.
 
MMcf” – million cubic feet of gas.
 
MMcfe” – million cubic feet of gas equivalent.
 
“NGL” – natural gas liquids measured in barrels.
 
    Terms used to describe our interests in wells and acreage:
 
Developed acreage” means acreage which consists of leased acres spaced or assignable to productive wells.
 
Development well” is a well drilled within the proved area of an oil or gas reservoir to the depth or stratigraphic horizon (rock layer or formation) noted to be productive for the purpose of extracting reserves.
 
Dry hole” is an exploratory or development well found to be incapable of producing either oil or gas in sufficient quantities to justify completion.
 
Exploratory well” is a well drilled to find and produce oil or gas in an unproved area, to find a new reservoir in a field previously found to be producing in another reservoir, or to extend a known reservoir.
 
Gross acres” are the number of acres in which we own a working interest.
 
Gross well” is a well in which we own an interest.
 
Net acres” are the sum of fractional ownership working interests in gross acres (e.g., a 50% working interest in a lease covering 320 gross acres is equivalent to 160 net acres).
 
Net well” is the sum of fractional ownership working interests in gross wells.
 
Productive well” is an exploratory or a development well that is not a dry hole.
 
Undeveloped acreage” means those leased acres on which wells have not been drilled or completed to a point that would permit the production of economic quantities of oil and gas, regardless of whether or not such acreage contains proved reserves.
 
Terms used to assign a present value to or to classify our reserves:
 
Proved reserves” are those quantities of oil and gas reserves, which, by analysis of geoscience and engineering data, can be estimated with reasonable certainty to be commercially recoverable - from a given date forward, from known reservoirs, and under defined economic conditions, operating methods, and government regulations.

“Proved developed reserves” are those quantities of oil and gas reserves that can be expected to be recovered through existing wells with existing equipment and operating methods. Additional reserves expected to be obtained through the application of fluid injection or other improved recovery techniques for supplementing the natural forces and mechanisms of primary recovery are included in “proved developed reserves” only after testing by a pilot project or after the operation of an installed program has confirmed through production response that increased recovery will be achieved.


3



“Proved developed non-producing reserves”  are those quantities of oil and gas reserves that are developed behind pipe in an existing well bore, from a shut-in well bore or that can be recovered through improved recovery only after the necessary equipment has been installed, or when the costs to do so are relatively minor. Shut-in reserves are expected to be recovered from (1) completion intervals which are open at the time of the estimate but which have not started producing, (2) wells that were shut-in for market conditions or pipeline connections, or (3) wells not capable of production for mechanical reasons. Behind-pipe reserves are expected to be recovered from zones in existing wells that will require additional completion work or future recompletion prior to the start of production.

“Proved undeveloped reserves” or “PUDs” are those quantities of oil and gas reserves that are expected to be recovered from new wells on undrilled acreage or from existing wells where a relatively major expenditure is required for development. Reserves on undrilled acreage are limited to those drilling units offsetting productive units that are reasonably certain of production when drilled. Proved reserves for other undrilled units are claimed only where it can be demonstrated with reasonable certainty that there is continuity of production from the existing productive formation. Estimates for proved undeveloped reserves are not attributed to any acreage for which an application of fluid injection or other improved recovery technique is contemplated, unless such techniques have been proven effective by actual tests in the area and in the same reservoir.

“Probable reserves” are those additional reserves which analysis of geoscience and engineering data indicate are less likely to be recovered than proved reserves but more certain to be recovered than possible reserves.
 
“Possible reserves” are those additional reserves which analysis of geoscience and engineering data suggest are less likely to be recoverable than probable reserves.
 
PV-10” means estimated future net revenue, discounted at a rate of 10% per annum, before income taxes and with no price or cost escalation or de-escalation, calculated in accordance with guidelines promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).
 
Standardized Measure” means estimated future net revenue, discounted at a rate of 10% per annum, after income taxes and with no price or cost escalation or de-escalation, calculated in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 932, “Disclosures About Oil and Gas Producing Activities.”

4



ABRAXAS PETROLEUM CORPORATION
FORM 10 – Q
INDEX


PART I
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
 
 
 
ITEM 1 -
Financial Statements
 
 
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets -
September 30, 2013 (unaudited) and December 31, 2012
 
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations – (unaudited)
Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013 and 2012
 
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) – (unaudited)
Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013 and 2012
 
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows – (unaudited)
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013 and 2012
 
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements - (unaudited)
 
 
 
ITEM 2 -
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations
 
 
 
ITEM 3 -
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
 
 
 
ITEM 4 -
Controls and Procedures
 
 
 
PART II
OTHER INFORMATION
 
ITEM 1 -
Legal Proceedings
ITEM 1A -
Risk Factors
ITEM 2 -
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
ITEM 3 -
Defaults Upon Senior Securities
ITEM 4 -
Mine Safety Disclosure
ITEM 5 -
Other Information
ITEM 6 -
Exhibits
 
Signatures
 
 
 

5



PART I
FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.   Financial Statements

Abraxas Petroleum Corporation
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(in thousands)
 
 
 
September 30, 
 2013 
 (Unaudited)
 
December 31,
2012
 
Assets
 
 
 
 
 
Current assets:
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
4,985

 
$
2,061

 
Accounts receivable, net:
 
 

 
 

 
Joint owners
 
15,506

 
8,883

 
Oil and gas production
 
21,702

 
10,887

 
Other
 
643

 
661

 
 
 
37,851

 
20,431

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivative asset – current
 
735

 
41

 
Other current assets
 
652

 
488

 
Total current assets
 
44,223

 
23,021

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property and equipment:
 
 

 
 

 
Oil and gas properties, full cost method of accounting:
 
 

 
 

 
Proved                                                                                   
 
579,365

 
563,317

 
Unproved properties excluded from depletion                                                                                   
 
3,976

 
2,089

 
Other property and equipment                                                                                   
 
38,858

 
37,833

 
Total                                                                            
 
622,199

 
603,239

 
Less accumulated depreciation, depletion, and amortization
 
(412,544
)
 
(390,407
)
 
Total property and equipment – net                                                                                   
 
209,655

 
212,832

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Deferred financing fees, net                                                                                         
 
2,477

 
3,397

 
Derivative asset – long-term                                                                                         
 
489

 
594

 
Other assets                                                                                         
 
391

 
763

 
Total assets                                                                                   
 
$
257,235

 
$
240,607

 


 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements (unaudited).


6



Abraxas Petroleum Corporation
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (continued)
(in thousands, except share data)
 
 
 
 
 
September 30, 
 2013 
 (Unaudited)
 
December 31,
2012
 
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
 
 
 
 
 
Current liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
Accounts payable                                                                                       
 
$
40,750

 
$
42,387

 
       Oil and gas production payable                                                                                       
 
27,964

 
6,947

 
       Accrued interest                                                                                       
 
67

 
75

 
       Other accrued expenses                                                                                       
 
2,161

 
962

 
       Derivative liability – current                                                                                       
 
3,784

 
3,462

 
       Current maturities of long-term debt                                                                                       
 
2,113

 
657

 
     Total current liabilities                                                                                    
 
76,839

 
54,490

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Long-term debt, excluding current maturities                                                                                         
 
108,495

 
124,101

 
Other liabilities                                                                                         
 
57

 
367

 
Derivative liability – long-term                                                                                         
 
2,022

 
3,568

 
Future site restoration                                                                                         
 
10,214

 
11,381

 
Total liabilities                                                                                    
 
197,627

 
193,907

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stockholders’ Equity
 
 

 
 

 
Preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share, authorized 1,000,000 shares; -0- issued and outstanding
 

 

 
Common stock, par value $0.01 per share, authorized 200,000,000 shares; 92,837,532 and 92,733,448 issued and outstanding
 
928

 
927

 
Additional paid-in capital                                                                                       
 
252,703

 
250,998

 
Accumulated deficit                                                                                       
 
(193,605
)
 
(205,256
)
 
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income                                                                                       
 
(418
)
 
31

 
Total stockholders’ equity                                                                                       
 
59,608

 
46,700

 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity                                                                                         
 
$
257,235

 
$
240,607

 


 

 
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements (unaudited).

7



Abraxas Petroleum Corporation
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
(Unaudited)
(in thousands except per share data)
 
 
 
Three Months Ended 
 September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended 
 September 30,
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
Revenue:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Oil and gas production revenues
 
$
29,092

 
$
17,146

 
$
71,733

 
$
49,459

Other
 
3

 
24

 
52

 
42

 
 
29,095

 
17,170

 
71,785

 
49,501

Operating costs and expenses:
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Lease operating expenses
 
5,469

 
6,816

 
18,097

 
18,132

Production taxes
 
2,637

 
1,714

 
6,475

 
4,699

Depreciation, depletion, and amortization
 
7,260

 
5,971

 
19,545

 
16,189

Impairment
 
158

 
11,761

 
2,135

 
13,067

General and administrative (including stock-based compensation of $520, $413, $1,662 and $1,612 respectively)
 
2,410

 
2,267

 
7,737

 
6,572

 
 
17,934

 
28,529

 
53,989

 
58,659

Operating income (loss)
 
11,161

 
(11,359
)
 
17,796

 
(9,158
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other (income) expense:
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Interest income
 
(1
)
 
(1
)
 
(2
)
 
(3
)
Interest expense
 
1,110

 
1,596

 
3,577

 
4,061

Amortization of deferred financing fees
 
344

 
311

 
1,020

 
607

Loss (gain) on derivative contracts - Realized
 
2,124

 
84

 
3,832

 
(782
)
Loss (gain) on derivative contracts - Unrealized
 
4,490

 
5,267

 
(2,374
)
 
(4,153
)
Earnings from equity method investment
 

 
(282
)
 

 
(2,316
)
Other
 
(96
)
 

 
5

 
42

 
 
7,971

 
6,975

 
6,058

 
(2,544
)
Net income before income tax (loss)
 
3,190

 
(18,334
)
 
11,738

 
(6,614
)
Income tax expense
 

 
310

 
87

 
310

Net income (loss)
 
$
3,190

 
$
(18,644
)
 
$
11,651

 
$
(6,924
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss) per common share – basic
 
$
0.03

 
$
(0.20
)
 
$
0.13

 
$
(0.08
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss) per common share – diluted
 
$
0.03

 
$
(0.20
)
 
$
0.12

 
$
(0.08
)






See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements (unaudited).

8



Abraxas Petroleum Corporation
Condensed Consolidated Statements of
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
(Unaudited)
(in thousands)
 

 
 
Three Months Ended 
 September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended 
 September 30,
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
Consolidated net income (loss)
 
$
3,190

 
$
(18,644
)
 
$
11,651

 
$
(6,924
)
Other comprehensive income (loss):
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Change in unrealized value of investments
 
(128
)
 
8

 
(79
)
 
(29
)
Foreign currency translation adjustment
 
28

 
742

 
(370
)
 
526

Other comprehensive income (loss)
 
(100
)
 
750

 
(449
)
 
497

Comprehensive income (loss)
 
$
3,090

 
$
(17,894
)
 
$
11,202

 
$
(6,427
)

 
 


See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements (unaudited).

9



Abraxas Petroleum Corporation
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(Unaudited)
(in thousands)
 
 
 
Nine Months Ended 
 September 30,
 
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
Operating Activities
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss)
 
$
11,651

 
$
(6,924
)
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss)  to net
 
 

 
 

 
cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
 
 

 
 

 
Equity in gain of joint venture
 

 
(2,316
)
 
Change in derivative fair value
 
(1,813
)
 
(5,411
)
 
Monetization of derivative contracts
 

 
12,364

 
Depreciation, depletion, and amortization
 
19,545

 
16,189

 
Impairment
 
2,135

 
13,067

 
Amortization of deferred financing fees
 
1,020

 
607

 
Accretion of future site restoration
 
487

 
353

 
Stock-based compensation
 
1,662

 
1,612

 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
 
 

 
 

 
Accounts receivable
 
(17,445
)
 
(1,673
)
 
Other
 
(182
)
 
(171
)
 
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
 
18,938

 
3,633

 
Net cash provided by operating activities
 
35,998

 
31,330

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Investing Activities
 
 

 
 

 
Capital expenditures, including purchases and development of properties
 
(60,889
)
 
(53,499
)
 
Proceeds from sale of oil and gas properties
 
42,144

 

 
Proceeds from dissolution of equity method investment
 

 
6,025

 
Net cash used in investing activities
 
(18,745
)
 
(47,474
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Financing Activities
 
 

 
 

 
Proceeds from long-term borrowings
 
40,000

 
25,500

 
Payments on long-term borrowings
 
(54,150
)
 
(6,134
)
 
Deferred financing fees
 
(100
)
 
(640
)
 
Exercise of stock options
 
44

 

 
Other
 
(141
)
 
33

 
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities
 
(14,347
)
 
18,759

 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
 
18

 

 
Increase in cash
 
2,924

 
2,615

 
Cash and equivalents, at beginning of period
 
$
2,061

 
$

 
Cash and equivalents, at end of period
 
$
4,985

 
$
2,615

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
 
 

 
 

 
Interest paid
 
$
3,096

 
$
3,878

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements (unaudited).

10



Abraxas Petroleum Corporation
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)
(tabular amounts in thousands, except per unit data)
 
Note 1. Basis of Presentation
 
The accounting policies followed by Abraxas Petroleum Corporation and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) are set forth in the notes to the Company’s audited consolidated financial statements in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012 filed with the SEC on March 18, 2013. Such policies have been continued without change. Also, refer to the notes to those financial statements for additional details of the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows. All material items included in those notes have not changed except as a result of normal transactions in the interim, or as disclosed within this report. The accompanying interim condensed consolidated financial statements have not been audited by our independent registered public accountants, but in the opinion of management, reflect all adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position and results of operations. Any and all adjustments are of a normal and recurring nature. Although management believes the unaudited interim related disclosures in these condensed consolidated financial statements are adequate to make the information presented not misleading, certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in annual audited consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America have been condensed or omitted pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC. The results of operations and the cash flows for the period ended September 30, 2013 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year. The condensed consolidated financial statements included herein should be read in conjunction with the consolidated audited financial statements and the notes thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012.

Consolidation Principles

The terms “Abraxas,” “Abraxas Petroleum,” “we,” “us,” “our” or the “Company” refer to Abraxas Petroleum Corporation and all of its subsidiaries, including Raven Drilling, LLC (“Raven Drilling”) and a wholly-owned foreign subsidiary, Canadian Abraxas Petroleum, ULC (“Canadian Abraxas”).

Canadian Abraxas’ assets and liabilities are translated to U.S. dollars at period-end exchange rates.  Income and expense items are translated at average rates of exchange prevailing during the period.  Translation adjustments are accumulated as a separate component of stockholders’ equity.
 
Rig Accounting
 
In accordance with SEC Regulation S-X, no income is to be recognized in connection with contractual drilling services performed in connection with properties in which the Company or its affiliates holds an ownership, or other economic interest. Any income not recognized as a result of this limitation is to be credited to the full cost pool and recognized through lower amortization as reserves are produced.
 
Use of Estimates
 
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
 
Stock-based Compensation and  Option Plans
 
Stock Options
 
The Company currently utilizes a standard option-pricing model (i.e., Black-Scholes) to measure the fair value of stock options granted to employees and directors.

The following table summarizes the Company’s stock-based compensation expense related to stock options for the periods presented:
 

11



Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
$
408

 
$
300

 
$
1,328

 
$
1,245


 
The following table summarizes the Company’s stock option activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2013:
 
 
 
 
Number
of
Shares
 
Weighted
Average
 Option
 Exercise
 Price Per
 Share
 
Weighted
 Average
Grant
Date Fair
 Value
Per Share
 
Outstanding, December 31, 2012
 
4,761

 
$
2.77

 
$
1.98

 
Granted
 
801

 
2.39

 
1.70

 
Exercised
 
(73
)
 
0.71

 
0.36

 
Canceled
 
(11
)
 
2.69

 
1.95

 
Outstanding, September 30, 2013
 
5,478

 
$
2.75

 
$
1.96

 

Additional information related to stock options at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 is as follows: 
 
 
September 30,
2013
 
December 31,
2012
 
Options exercisable                                                                                    
 
3,685

 
2,992

 

As of September 30, 2013, there was approximately $2.5 million of unamortized compensation expense related to outstanding stock options that will be recognized in 2013 through 2017.
 
Restricted Stock Awards

Restricted stock awards are awards of common stock that are subject to restrictions on transfer and to a risk of forfeiture if the awardee terminates employment with the Company prior to the lapse of the restrictions. The fair value of such stock was determined using the closing price on the grant date and compensation expense is recorded over the applicable vesting periods.

The following table summarizes the Company’s restricted stock activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2013
 
 
Number
of
Shares
 
Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Per Share
 
Unvested, December 31, 2012                                                 
 
482

 
$
3.09

 
Granted                                                 
 
35

 
2.51

 
Vested/Released                                                 
 
(170
)
 
2.66

 
Forfeited                                                 
 
(1
)
 
2.77

 
Unvested, September 30, 2013                                                 
 
346

 
$
3.24

 

The following table summarizes the Company’s stock-based compensation expense related to restricted stock for the periods presented:
 

12



Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
$
112

 
$
113

 
$
334

 
$
367

 
As of September 30, 2013, there was approximately $0.8 million of unamortized compensation expense relating to outstanding restricted shares that will be recognized in 2013 through 2016. 

Oil and Gas Properties

The Company follows the full cost method of accounting for oil and gas properties.  Under this method, all direct costs and certain indirect costs associated with the acquisition of properties and successful, as well as unsuccessful, exploration and development activities are capitalized. Depreciation, depletion, and amortization of capitalized oil and gas properties and estimated future development costs, excluding unproved properties, are based on the unit-of-production method based on proved reserves.  Net capitalized costs of oil and gas properties, less related deferred taxes, are limited by country, to the lower of the unamortized capitalized cost or the cost ceiling. The ceiling cost is calculated as PV-10, plus the cost of properties not being amortized, if any, plus the lower of cost or estimated fair value of unproved properties included in the costs being amortized, if any, less related income taxes. We calculate the projected income tax effect using the “short-cut” method for the cost ceiling test calculation. Costs in excess of the cost ceiling are charged to proved property impairment expense.  No gain or loss is recognized upon sale or disposition of oil and gas properties, except where the sale or disposition causes a significant change in the relationship between capitalized cost and the estimated quantity of proved reserves. We apply the full cost ceiling test on a quarterly basis on the date of the latest balance sheet presented. At September 30, 2012, our net capitalized costs of oil and gas properties in the United States did not exceed the cost ceiling of our estimated proved reserves; however, the net capitalized cost of oil and gas properties in Canada exceeded the cost ceiling by $13.1 million resulting in a write down for the nine months ended September 30, 2012. At September 30, 2013, our net capitalized costs of oil and gas properties in the United States did not exceed the cost ceiling of our estimated proved reserves; however, the net capitalized cost of oil and gas properties in Canada exceeded the cost ceiling resulting in write downs for the three month and nine months ended September 30, 2013 of $0.1 million and $2.1 million, respectively.

Restoration, Removal and Environmental Liabilities

The Company is subject to extensive Federal, provincial, state and local environmental laws and regulations. These laws regulate the discharge of materials into the environment and may require the Company to remove or mitigate the environmental effects of the disposal or release of petroleum substances at various sites.  Environmental expenditures are expensed or capitalized depending on their future economic benefit.  Expenditures that relate to an existing condition caused by past operations and that have no future economic benefit are expensed.

Liabilities for expenditures of a non-capital nature are recorded when environmental assessments and/or remediation is probable, and the costs can be reasonably estimated. Such liabilities are generally undiscounted unless the timing of cash payments for the liability or component are fixed or reliably determinable.
 
The Company accounts for asset retirement obligations based on the guidance of ASC 410 which addresses accounting and reporting for obligations associated with the retirement of tangible long-lived assets and the associated asset retirement costs. ASC 410 requires that the fair value of a liability for an asset's retirement obligation be recorded in the period in which it is incurred and the corresponding cost capitalized by increasing the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset. The liability is accreted to its then present value each period, and the capitalized cost is depreciated over the estimated useful life of the related asset. For all periods presented, we have included estimated future costs of abandonment and dismantlement in our full cost amortization base and amortize these costs as a component of our depletion expense in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements.

The following table summarizes the Company’s asset retirement obligation transactions for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and the year ended December 31, 2012:
 

13



 
 
September 30,
 2013
 
December 31,
2012
 
Beginning asset retirement obligation
 
$
11,381

 
$
8,412

 
New wells placed on production and other
 
125

 
330

 
Deletions related to property disposals and plugging costs
 
(1,747
)
 
(423
)
 
Accretion expense
 
487

 
474

 
Revisions
 
(32
)
 
2,588

 
Ending asset retirement obligation
 
$
10,214

 
$
11,381

 
 
Working Capital (Deficit) At September 30, 2013, our current liabilities of $76.8 million exceeded our current assets of approximately $44.2 million, resulting in working capital deficit of $32.6 million. This compares to a working capital deficit of $31.5 million at December 31, 2012. Current assets at September 30, 2013 primarily consist of accounts receivable of $37.9 million and cash of $5.0 million. Current liabilities at September 30, 2013 primarily consisted of trade payables of $40.8 million, revenues due third parties of $28.0 million, current portion of derivative liabilities of $3.8 million, current maturities of long-term debt of $2.1 million and accrued liabilities of $2.2 million.

 

 
Note 2. Joint Venture

On August 18, 2010, Abraxas Petroleum and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Abraxas Operating, LLC, contributed 8,333 net acres in the Eagle Ford Shale play to Blue Eagle Energy, LLC (“Blue Eagle”) and received a $25.0 million equity interest in Blue Eagle pursuant to the terms of the Subscription and Contribution Agreement among Abraxas Petroleum, Abraxas Operating, Blue Eagle and Rock Oil Company, LLC (“Rock Oil”) formerly known as Blue Stone Oil & Gas, LLC. Simultaneously, Rock Oil contributed $25.0 million in cash to Blue Eagle for a $25.0 million equity interest. Blue Eagle was dissolved effective August 31, 2012.
 
Through August 31, 2012 we accounted for the joint venture under the equity method of accounting in accordance with ASC 323. Under this method, Abraxas’ share of net income (loss) from the joint venture is reflected as an increase (decrease) in its investment account in “Investment in joint venture” and was also recorded as equity investment income (loss) in “Earnings from equity method investment.” For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 we reported income of $0.3 million and $2.3 million respectively related to Blue Eagle.
 
The following is condensed financial data from Blue Eagle’s September 30, 2012 financial statements:
 
Three Months Ended September 30, 2012
 
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012
Revenue:
$
2,319

 
$
12,087

Operating expenses
(1,868
)
 
(6,895
)
Other income
1

 
2

Net income:
$
452

 
$
5,194






Note 3.  Income Taxes

The Company records income taxes using the liability method. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between financial reporting and tax basis of assets and liabilities and are measured using the tax rates and laws expected to be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse.

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, there was no current or deferred income tax expense or benefit due to loss carryforwards. Valuation allowances have been recorded against such benefits in prior periods.

14



 
The Company accounts for uncertain tax positions under the provisions of ASC 740-10. The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in income tax expense. As of September 30, 2013, the Company did not have any accrued interest or penalties related to uncertain tax positions. The tax years 2010 through 2012 remain open to examination by the tax jurisdictions to which the Company is subject. The Company and Abraxas Energy Partners, L.P., which was merged into a wholly owned subsidiary of Abraxas, have undergone audits of their 2009 Federal income tax returns. The audit of the Federal income tax return of Abraxas Energy Partners, L.P. was completed with no changes. The audit of Abraxas Petroleum Corporation resulted in a notice of a proposed adjustment of $619,000. For the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company accrued $310,000 in income tax expense related to the audit of its 2009 Federal tax return. This amount was determined by an analysis of what the amount that was greater than 50% likely to be paid upon final settlement. On July 23, 2013 we settled the assessment for $391,000 resulting in $81,000 being recognized as expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2013.
 
At December 31, 2012, the Company had $169.6 million of net operating loss carryforwards for U.S. tax purposes and $15.0 million of net operating loss carryforwards for Canadian tax purposes.  The U.S. loss carryforward will expire in varying amounts through 2032 and the Canadian loss carryforward will expire in 2032, if not utilized.
 
 

 Note 4. Long-Term Debt

The following table summarizes the Company’s long-term debt:

 
 
September 30, 2013
 
December 31, 2012
 
Credit facility
 
$
99,000

 
$
113,000

 
Rig loan agreement
 
7,000

 
7,000

 
Real estate lien note
 
4,608

 
4,758

 
 
 
110,608

 
124,758

 
Less current maturities
 
(2,113
)
 
(657
)
 
 
 
$
108,495

 
$
124,101

 

Credit Facility

We have a senior secured credit facility with Société Générale, as administrative agent and issuing lender, and certain other lenders, which we refer to as the credit facility.  As of September 30, 2013, $99.0 million was outstanding and $48.0 million was available under the credit facility.

The credit facility has a maximum commitment of $300.0 million and availability is subject to a borrowing base. As of September 30, 2013 we had a borrowing base of $147.0 million and availability of $48.0 million . The borrowing base is determined semi-annually by the lenders based upon our reserve reports, one of which must be prepared by our independent petroleum engineers and one of which may be prepared internally. The amount of the borrowing base is calculated by the lenders based upon their valuation of our proved reserves securing the facility, utilizing these reserve reports, and their own internal decisions. In addition, the lenders, in their sole discretion, are able to make one additional borrowing base redetermination during any six-month period between scheduled redeterminations and we are able to request one redetermination during any six-month period between scheduled redeterminations.  The borrowing base will be automatically reduced in connection with any sales of producing properties with a market value of 5% or more of our then-current borrowing base and in connection with any hedge termination which could reduce the collateral value by 5% or more. On September 25, 2013, our borrowing base was increased to $147.0 million based upon our reserve report dated June 30, 2013. Our borrowing base can never exceed the $300.0 million maximum commitment amount.  Outstanding amounts under the credit facility bear interest at (a) the greater of (1) the reference rate announced from time to time by Société Générale, (2) the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.5%, and (3) a rate determined by Société Générale as the daily one-month LIBOR plus, in each case, (b) 1.25%2.25%, depending on the utilization of the borrowing base, or, if we elect LIBOR plus 2.25%3.25%, depending on the utilization of the borrowing base. At September 30, 2013 the interest rate on the credit facility was 2.9% based on 1-month LIBOR borrowings and the level of utilization.

Subject to earlier termination rights and events of default, the stated maturity date of the credit facility is June 30, 2015. Interest is payable quarterly on reference rate advances and not less than quarterly on LIBOR advances. We are permitted to

15



terminate the credit facility and are able, from time to time, to permanently reduce the lenders’ aggregate commitment under the credit facility in compliance with certain notice and dollar increment requirements.

Each of our subsidiaries has guaranteed our obligations under the credit facility on a senior secured basis. Obligations under the credit facility are secured by a first priority perfected security interest, subject to certain permitted encumbrances, in all of our and our subsidiary guarantors’ material property and assets, other than Raven Drilling.

Under the credit facility, we are subject to customary covenants, including certain financial covenants and reporting requirements.  We are required to maintain a current ratio, as of the last day of each quarter of not less than 1.00 to 1.00 and an interest coverage ratio of not less than 2.50 to 1.00.  We are also required as of the last day of each quarter to maintain a debt to EBITDAX ratio as of the last day of each quarter of not more than 4.00 to 1.00. The current ratio is defined as the ratio of consolidated current assets to consolidated current liabilities.  For the purposes of this calculation, current assets include the portion of the borrowing base which is undrawn but excludes any cash deposited with a counter-party to a hedging arrangement and any assets representing a valuation account arising from the application of ASC 815 and ASC 410-20 and current liabilities exclude the current portion of long-term debt and any liabilities representing a valuation account arising from the application of ASC 815 and ASC 410-20.  The interest coverage ratio is defined as the ratio of consolidated EBITDAX to consolidated interest expense for the four fiscal quarters ended on the calculation date. For the purposes of this calculation, EBITDAX is defined as the sum of consolidated net income plus interest expense, oil and gas exploration expenses, income, franchise or margin taxes, depreciation, amortization, depletion and other non-cash charges including non-cash charges resulting from the application of ASC 718, ASC 815 and ASC 410-20 plus all realized net cash proceeds arising from the settlement or monetization of any hedge contracts minus all non-cash items of income which were included in determining consolidated net income, including all non-cash items resulting from the application of ASC 815 and ASC 410-20. Interest expense includes total interest, letter of credit fees and other fees and expenses incurred in connection with any debt. The total debt to EBITDAX ratio is defined as the ratio of total debt to consolidated EBITDAX for the four fiscal quarters ended on the calculation date.  For the purposes of this calculation, total debt is the outstanding principal amount of debt, excluding debt associated with the office building, Raven Drilling’s  rig loan and obligations with respect to surety bonds and derivative contracts.
 
At September 30, 2013 we were in compliance with all of our debt covenants.  As of September 30, 2013, the interest coverage ratio was 9.68 to 1.00, the total debt to EBITDAX ratio was 2.32 to 1.00 and our current ratio was 1.29 to 1.00.
 
The credit facility contains a number of covenants that, among other things, restrict our ability to:
incur or guarantee additional indebtedness;
transfer or sell assets;
create liens on assets;
engage in transactions with affiliates other than on an “arm’s length” basis;
make any change in the principal nature of our business; and
permit a change of control.
 
The credit facility also contains customary events of default, including nonpayment of principal or interest, violations of covenants, cross default and cross acceleration to certain other indebtedness, bankruptcy and material judgments and liabilities.

Rig Loan Agreement
 
On September 19, 2011, Raven Drilling entered into a rig loan agreement with RBS Asset Finance, Inc. to finance the costs of purchasing and refurbishing an Oilwell 2,000 hp diesel electric drilling rig (the “Collateral”). The rig loan agreement provided for interim borrowings payable to Raven Drilling until the final amount of the loan was determined. 

On February 14, 2012, Raven Drilling finalized the note with respect to the rig loan agreement.  The principal amount of the note is $7.0 million and bears interest at 4.26%.  Interest only is due for the first 18-months of the note and thereafter, the note will amortize in full over the remaining life of the note.  Interest and principal, when required, is payable monthly.  Subject to earlier prepayment provisions and events of default, the stated maturity date of the note is February 14, 2017. As of September 30, 2013, $7.0 million was outstanding under the rig loan agreement.

Abraxas Petroleum has guaranteed Raven Drilling’s obligations under the rig loan agreement and associated note.  Obligations under the rig loan agreement are secured by a first priority perfected security interest, subject to certain permitted encumbrances, in the Collateral.

16




Real Estate Lien Note

On May 9, 2008, the Company entered into an advancing line of credit in the amount of $5.4 million for the purchase and finish out of a building to serve as its corporate headquarters. This note was refinanced in November 2008.  The note was modified on April 4, 2013, reducing the interest to a fixed rate of 4.0%, effective March 13, 2013 and was payable in monthly installments of principal and interest of $33,763 based on a twenty year amortization. This note was modified on July 20, 2013. The modification extended the maturity date to July 20, 2023. The note will bear interest for five years at a fixed rate of 4.25% and is payable in monthly installments of $34,354. Beginning August 20, 2018, the interest rate will adjust to the current bank prime rate plus 1.00% with a maximum rate of 7.25%. The note is secured by a first lien deed of trust on the property and improvements. As of September 30, 2013, $4.6 million was outstanding on the note.

 
Note 5. Income Per Share
 
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted income per share:
 
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
Numerator:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income
 
$
3,190

 
$
(18,644
)
 
$
11,651

 
$
(6,924
)
Denominator:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Denominator for basic income per share -
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted-average shares
 
92,475

 
91,898

 
92,435

 
91,866

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Effect of dilutive securities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stock options and restricted stock
 
1,067

 

 
940

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Denominator for diluted income per share -
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Weighted-average shares and assumed conversions
 
93,542

 
91,898

 
93,375

 
91,866

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income per common share – basic
 
$
0.03

 
$
(0.20
)
 
$
0.13

 
$
(0.08
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Net income per common share – diluted
 
$
0.03

 
$
(0.20
)
 
$
0.12

 
$
(0.08
)

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, none of the shares issuable in connection with stock options are included in diluted shares as inclusion of these shares would be antidilutive due to the losses incurred in those periods. Had there not been a loss for the periods, dilutive shares would have been 729 thousand and 1,031 thousand, respectively.



Note 6. Hedging Program and Derivatives

The derivative instruments we utilize are based on index prices that may and often do differ from the actual oil and gas prices realized in our operations.  Management has elected not to apply hedge accounting as prescribed by ASC 815. Accordingly, fluctuations in the market value of the derivative contracts are recognized in earnings during the current period.

The following table sets forth our derivative contracts at September 30, 2013:


17



 
 
Fixed Price Swap
 
 
 
Oil – WTI
 
Oil - Brent
 
Oil - LLS
 
Contract Periods
 
Daily Volume (Bbl)
 
Swap Price (per Bbl)
 
Daily Volume (Bbl)
 
Swap Price (per Bbl)
 
Daily Volume (Bbl)
 
Swap Price (per Bbl)
 
2013
 
1,007

 
$
84.76

 
510

 
$
105.00

 
283

 
$
106.75

 
2014
 
687

 
$
94.16

 
505

 
$
100.56

 
100

 
$
101.26

 
2015
 
560

 
$
83.03

 
500

 
$
97.04

 

 
$

 
2016
 
963

 
$
84.10

 

 
$

 

 
$

 
2017
 
500

 
$
84.18

 

 
$

 

 
$

 

At September 30, 2013, the aggregate fair value of our commodity derivative contracts was a liability of approximately $4.6 million.

The following table illustrates the impact of derivative contracts on the Company’s balance sheet:
 
Fair Value of Derivative Instruments as of September 30, 2013
 
 
 
Asset Derivatives
 
Liability Derivatives
 
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
 
Balance Sheet Location
 
Fair Value
 
Balance Sheet Location
 
Fair Value
 
Commodity price derivatives
 
Derivatives – current
 
$
735

 
Derivatives – current
 
$
3,784

 
Commodity price derivatives
 
Derivatives - long-term
 
489

 
Derivatives - long-term
 
2,022

 
 
 
 
 
$
1,224

 
 
 
$
5,806

 

 
Fair Value of Derivative Instruments as of December 31, 2012
 
 
 
Asset Derivatives
 
Liability Derivatives
 
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
 
Balance Sheet Location
 
Fair Value
 
Balance Sheet Location
 
Fair Value
 
Commodity price derivatives
 
Derivatives – current
 
$
41

 
Derivatives – current
 
$
3,462

 
Commodity price derivatives
 
Derivatives – long-term
 
594

 
Derivatives – long-term
 
3,568

 
 
 
 
 
$
635

 
 
 
$
7,030

 

Gains and losses from derivative activities are reflected as “(Gain) loss on derivative contracts” in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.

Note 7.  Fair Value

Fair Value Hierarchy—ASC 820-10 establishes a three-level valuation hierarchy for disclosure of fair value measurements. The valuation hierarchy categorizes assets and liabilities measured at fair value into one of three different levels depending on the observability of the inputs employed in the measurement. The three levels are defined as follows:

Level 1 – inputs to the valuation methodology are quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.

Level 2 – inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, and inputs that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the financial instrument.

Level 3 - inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable and significant to the fair value measurement.

A financial instrument’s categorization within the valuation hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The Company’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment and considers factors specific to the asset or liability. The Company is further

18



required to assess the creditworthiness of the counter-party to the derivative contract. The results of the assessment of non-performance risk, based on the counter-party’s credit risk, could result in an adjustment of the carrying value of the derivative instrument. The following tables set forth information about the Company’s assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, and indicate the fair value hierarchy of the valuation techniques utilized by the Company to determine such fair value (in thousands):

 
 
Quoted Prices
 in Active
Markets for
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
 (Level 2)
 
 
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs (Level 3)
 
 
 
Balance September 30, 2013
 
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fixed Price Derivative contracts
 
$

 
$
1,224

 
$

 
$
1,224

 
Total Assets
 
$

 
$
1,224

 
$

 
$
1,224

 
Liabilities:
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
Fixed Price Derivative contracts
 
$

 
$
5,806

 
$

 
$
5,806

 
Total Liabilities
 
$

 
$
5,806

 
$

 
$
5,806

 
 
 
Quoted Prices
 in Active
Markets for
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
 (Level 2)
 
 
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs (Level 3)
 
 
 
Balance December 31, 2012
 
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Investment in common stock
 
$
78

 
$

 
$

 
$
78

 
Fixed Price Derivative contracts
 

 
635

 

 
635

 
Total Assets
 
$
78

 
$
635

 
$

 
$
713

 
Liabilities:
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
Fixed Price Derivative contracts
 
$

 
$
7,030

 
$

 
$
7,030

 
Total Liabilities
 
$

 
$
7,030

 
$

 
$
7,030

 

The Company had an investment in Insignia Energy Ltd, the surviving entity in the merger with a former subsidiary, consisting of shares of common stock. The stock was actively traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange. This investment was valued at its quoted price as of December 31, 2012 in U.S. dollars. Accordingly, this investment is characterized as Level 1. On May 6, 2013, Insignia Energy Ltd, announced plans to privatize the company whereby all shareholders would receive C$1.35 per share. On July 19, 2013 Insignia announced that it had completed the plan. On August 12, 2013 the Company received C$135,494 cash consideration for its shares.

The Company’s derivative contracts consist of NYMEX-WTI based fixed price commodity swaps. NYMEX-Louisiana Light Sweet-based fixed price commodity swaps and NYMEX-Brent-based fixed price commodity swaps. The NYMEX-WIT based, NYMEX-Louisiana Light Sweet and NYMEX-Brent based fixed price derivative contracts are indexed to their respective futures contracts, which are actively traded for the underlying commodity and commonly used in the energy industry. As the fair value of these derivative contracts is based on a number of inputs, including contractual volumes and prices stated in each derivative contract, current and future index commodity prices, and quantitative models that are based upon readily observable market parameters that are actively quoted and can be validated through external sources, we have characterized these derivative contracts as Level 2.
 






19



Other Financial Instruments
 
The carrying amounts of our cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and accrued liabilities approximate fair value because of the short-term maturities and/or liquid nature of these assets and liabilities. The carrying value of our debt approximates fair value as the interest rates are market rates and this debt is considered Level 2.
 
Note 8. Business Segments
 
The following tables provide the Company’s geographic operating segment data for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012:
 
 
Three months ended September 30, 2013
 
 
 
U.S.
 
Canada
 
Corporate
 
Total
 
Revenues:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Oil and gas production revenues
 
$
28,571

 
$
521

 
$

 
$
29,092

 
Other
 

 

 
3

 
3

 
 
 
28,571

 
521

 
3

 
29,095

 
Expenses:
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
Lease operating expenses
 
5,003

 
466

 

 
5,469

 
Production taxes
 
2,637

 

 

 
2,637

 
Depreciation, depletion and amortization
 
6,995

 
203

 
62

 
7,260

 
Impairment
 

 
158

 

 
158

 
General and administrative
 
406

 
265

 
1,739

 
2,410

 
Net interest
 
148

 
6

 
955

 
1,109

 
Amortization of deferred financing fees
 

 

 
344

 
344

 
Loss on derivative contracts - Realized
 

 

 
2,124

 
2,124

 
Loss on derivative contracts - Unrealized
 

 

 
4,490

 
4,490

 
Other
 

 

 
(96
)
 
(96
)
 
Income tax expense
 

 

 

 

 
Net income (loss)
 
$
13,382

 
$
(577
)
 
$
(9,615
)
 
$
3,190

 
 
 
 
Three months ended September 30, 2012
 
 
 
U.S.
 
Canada
 
Corporate
 
Total
 
Revenues:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Oil and gas production revenues
 
$
16,312

 
$
834

 
$

 
$
17,146

 
Other
 

 

 
24

 
24

 
 
 
16,312

 
834

 
24

 
17,170

 
Expenses (income):
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
Lease operating expenses
 
5,645

 
1,171

 

 
6,816

 
Production taxes
 
1,689

 
25

 

 
1,714

 
Depreciation, depletion and amortization
 
5,042

 
867

 
62

 
5,971

 
Impairment
 

 
11,761

 

 
11,761

 
General and administrative
 
413

 
203

 
1,651

 
2,267

 
Net interest
 
114

 
4

 
1,477

 
1,595

 
Amortization of deferred financing fees
 

 

 
311

 
311

 
Earnings from equity method investment
 

 

 
(282
)
 
(282
)
 
Loss on derivative contracts - Realized
 

 

 
84

 
84

 
Loss on derivative contracts - Unrealized
 

 

 
5,267

 
5,267

 
Income tax expense
 
 
 
 
 
310

31

310

 
Net income (loss)
 
$
3,409

 
$
(13,197
)
 
$
(8,856
)
 
$
(18,644
)
 

20



 
 
Nine months ended September 30, 2013
 
 
U.S.
 
Canada
 
Corporate
 
Total
Revenues:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Oil and gas production revenues
 
$
70,075

 
$
1,658

 
$

 
$
71,733

Other
 

 

 
52

 
52

 
 
70,075

 
1,658

 
52

 
71,785

Expenses:
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Lease operating expenses
 
16,590

 
1,507

 

 
18,097

Production taxes
 
6,470

 
5

 

 
6,475

Depreciation, depletion and amortization
 
18,620

 
738

 
187

 
19,545

Impairment
 

 
2,135

 

 
2,135

General and administrative
 
1,367

 
606

 
5,764

 
7,737

Net interest
 
471

 
17

 
3,087

 
3,575

Amortization of deferred financing fees
 

 

 
1,020

 
1,020

Loss on derivative contracts - Realized
 

 

 
3,832

 
3,832

(Gain) on derivative contracts - Unrealized
 

 

 
(2,374
)
 
(2,374
)
Other
 

 

 
5

 
5

Income tax expense


 

 
87

 
87

Net income (loss)
 
$
26,557

 
$
(3,350
)
 
$
(11,556
)
 
$
11,651


 
 
Nine months ended September 30, 2012
 
 
U.S.
 
Canada
 
Corporate
 
Total
Revenues:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Oil and gas production revenues
 
$
47,299

 
$
2,160

 
$

 
$
49,459

Other
 

 

 
42

 
42

 
 
47,299

 
2,160

 
42

 
49,501

Expenses:
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Lease operating expenses
 
16,395

 
1,737

 

 
18,132

Production taxes
 
4,674

 
25

 

 
4,699

Depreciation, depletion and amortization
 
14,496

 
1,506

 
187

 
16,189

Impairment
 

 
13,067

 

 
13,067

General and administrative
 
1,116

 
498

 
4,958

 
6,572

Net interest
 
341

 
12

 
3,705

 
4,058

Amortization of deferred financing fees
 

 

 
607

 
607

Earnings from equity method investment
 

 

 
(2,316
)
 
(2,316
)
(Gain) on derivative contracts - Realized
 

 

 
(782
)
 
(782
)
(Gain) on derivative contracts - Unrealized
 

 

 
(4,153
)
 
(4,153
)
Other
 

 

 
42

 
42

Income tax expense
 

 

 
310

 
310

Net income (loss)
 
$
10,277

 
$
(14,685
)
 
$
(2,516
)
 
$
(6,924
)



21



The following table provides the Company’s geographic asset data as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

Segment Assets:
 
September 30,
2013
 
December 31,
2012
 
United States                                                           
 
$
241,841

 
$
223,253

 
Canada                                                           
 
5,984

 
7,053

 
Corporate                                                           
 
9,410

 
10,301

 
 
 
$
257,235

 
$
240,607

 


Note 9. Contingencies – Litigation

From time to time, the Company is involved in litigation relating to claims arising out of its operations in the normal course of business. At September 30, 2013, the Company was not engaged in any legal proceedings that are expected, individually or in the aggregate, to have a material adverse effect on its operations.



22



Note 10. Subsequent event

On October 31, 2013, the Company monetized the Bakken and Three Forks rights on its' Fairview Prospect in Richland County, Montana and McKenzie County North Dakota for total proceeds of $10.9 million. The sale consisted of approximately 2,563 net acres and does not have any associated production.

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
The following is a discussion of our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and capital resources. This discussion should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto, included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012 filed with the SEC on March 18, 2013.

The results of operations set forth below do not include our interest in the operations of Blue Eagle which was dissolved effective August 31, 2012.

Except as otherwise noted, all tabular amounts are in thousands, except per unit values.

Critical Accounting Policies

There have been no changes from the Critical Accounting Policies described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012.

General
We are an independent energy company primarily engaged in the acquisition, exploration, exploitation, development and production of oil and gas in the United States and Canada. Historically, we have grown through the acquisition and subsequent development and exploitation of producing properties, principally through the redevelopment of old fields utilizing new technologies such as modern log analysis and reservoir modeling techniques as well as 3-D seismic surveys and horizontal drilling. As a result of these activities, we believe that we have a number of development opportunities on our properties. In addition, we intend to expand upon our development activities with complementary exploration projects in our core areas of operation. Success in our development and exploration activities is critical in the maintenance and growth of our current production levels and associated reserves. 
Factors Affecting Our Financial Results 
 
While we have attained positive net income in two of the last five years, there can be no assurance that operating income and net earnings will be achieved in future periods. Our financial results depend upon many factors which significantly affect our results of operations including the following:
 
commodity prices and the effectiveness of our hedging arrangements;
the level of total sales volumes of oil and gas;
the availability of and our ability to raise additional capital resources and provide liquidity to meet cash flow needs;
the level of and interest rates on borrowings; and
the level and success of exploration and development activity

Commodity Prices and Hedging Activities
 
The results of our operations are highly dependent upon the prices received for our production. The prices we receive are dependent upon spot market prices, differentials and the effectiveness of our derivative contracts, which we sometimes refer to as hedging arrangements. Substantially all of our sales are made in the spot market, or pursuant to contracts based on spot market prices, and not pursuant to long-term, fixed-price contracts. Accordingly, the prices received for our production are dependent upon numerous factors beyond our control. Significant declines in commodity prices could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and quantities of reserves recoverable on an economic basis. 

During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, the New York Mercantile (NYMEX) future price for oil averaged $98.19 per barrel as compared to $96.16 per barrel during the nine months ended September 30, 2012. NYMEX future spot prices for gas averaged $3.69 per MMBtu for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 compared to $2.53 for the same period of 2012.

23



Prices closed on September 30, 2013 at $102.33 per Bbl of oil and $3.56 per MMBtu of gas, compared to closing on September 30, 2012 at $92.19 per Bbl of oil and $3.05 per MMBtu of gas. The realized prices that we receive for our production differ from NYMEX futures and spot market prices, principally due to:
basis differentials which are dependent on actual delivery location;
adjustments for BTU content;
quality of the hydrocarbons; and
gathering; processing and transportation costs.

The following table sets forth our average differentials for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012:
 
 
Oil - NYMEX
 
Gas - NYMEX
 
Oil - NYMEX
 
Gas - NYMEX
 
 
Three months ended September 30,
 
Nine months ended September 30,
 
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
Average realized price (1)
 
$
99.43

 
$
83.13

 
$
3.00

 
$
2.47

 
$
94.12

 
$
85.23

 
$
3.17

 
$
2.18

 
Average NYMEX price
 
$
105.81

 
$
92.26

 
$
3.56

 
$
2.88

 
$
98.19

 
$
96.16

 
$
3.69

 
$
2.53

 
Differential
 
$
(6.38
)
 
$
(9.13
)
 
$
(0.56
)
 
$
(0.41
)
 
$
(4.07
)
 
$
(10.93
)
 
$
(0.52
)
 
$
(0.35
)
 
_____________________________________
(1)
excludes the impact of derivative activities

Increases in the differential between the NYMEX price and the realized price we receive have in the past, and could in the future, significantly reduce our revenues and cash flow from operations. The increase in the gas differential was primarily due to gas produced in the Eagle Ford which has a higher differential due to the quality of the gas.
 
Our results of operations are significantly affected by fluctuations in commodity prices and we seek to reduce our exposure to price volatility by hedging our production through swaps, options and other commodity derivative instruments. By removing a significant portion of price volatility on our future production, we believe we will mitigate, but not eliminate, the potential effects of changing commodity prices on our cash flow from operations for those periods.  However, when prevailing market prices are higher than our contract prices, we will not realize increased cash flow on the portion of the production that has been hedged.  We have sustained and, in the future, will sustain realized and unrealized losses on our derivative contracts when market prices are higher than our contract prices. Conversely, when prevailing market prices are lower than our contract prices, we will recognize realized and unrealized gains on our commodity derivative contracts. For the nine months ended September 30, 2013, we recognized a realized loss of $3.8 million and an unrealized gain of $2.4 million on our commodity swaps. In the nine months ended September 30, 2012, we recognized an unrealized gain of $4.2 million and a realized gain of $0.8 million on our commodity swaps. We have not designated any of these derivative contracts as a hedge as prescribed by applicable accounting rules.

The following table sets forth our derivative contracts at September 30, 2013:
 
 
Fixed Price Swap
 
 
Oil – WTI
 
Oil - Brent
Oil - LLS
Contract Periods
 
Daily Volume (Bbl)
 
Swap Price (per Bbl)
 
Daily Volume (Bbl)
 
Swap Price (per Bbl)
Daily Volume (Bbl)
 
Swap Price (per Bbl)
2013
 
1,007

 
$
84.76

 
510

 
$
105.00

283

 
$
106.75

2014
 
687

 
$
94.16

 
505

 
$
100.56

100

 
$
101.26

2015
 
560

 
$
83.03

 
500

 
$
97.04


 
$

2016
 
963

 
$
84.10

 

 
$


 
$

2017
 
500

 
$
84.18

 

 
$


 
$


At September 30, 2013 the aggregate fair value of our oil and gas derivative contracts was a liability of approximately $4.6 million.

Production Volumes
 

24



Our proved reserves will decline as oil and gas are produced, unless we find, acquire or develop additional properties containing proved reserves or conduct successful exploration and development activities in a timely manner. Based on the reserve information set forth in our reserve estimates as of December 31, 2012, the average annual estimated decline rate for our net proved developed producing reserves is 13% during the first five years, 8% in the next five years, and approximately 7% thereafter.  These rates of decline are estimates and actual production declines could be materially higher.  While we have had some success in finding, acquiring and developing additional reserves, we have not always been able to fully replace the production volumes lost from natural field declines and prior property sales. Our ability to acquire or find additional reserves will be dependent, in part, upon the amount of available funds for acquisition, exploration and development projects.
 
We had capital expenditures of $60.9 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2013. We have a capital expenditure budget for 2013 of $85.0 million.  Approximately 48% of the 2013 budget will be spent on unconventional horizontal oil wells in the Bakken/Three Forks in the Rocky Mountain region, approximately 42% in the Eagle Ford Shale play in South Texas with the remainder targeting conventional oil plays in the Permian Basin region and in the province of Alberta, Canada.  The 2013 capital expenditure budget is subject to change depending upon a number of factors, including the availability and costs of drilling and service equipment and crews, economic and industry conditions at the time of drilling, prevailing and anticipated prices for oil and gas, the availability of sufficient capital resources, the results of our exploitation efforts, and our ability to obtain permits for drilling locations.
 
Availability of Capital
 
As described more fully under “Liquidity and Capital Resources” below, our sources of capital are cash flow from operating activities, borrowings under our credit facility, cash on hand, proceeds from the sale of properties, and if an appropriate opportunity presents itself, the sale of debt or equity securities, although we may not be able to complete any financing on terms acceptable to us, if at all.  As of September 30, 2013, we had $48.0 million of availability under our credit facility.
 
Exploration and Development Activity
 
We believe that our high quality asset base, high degree of operational control and inventory of drilling projects position us for future growth. At December 31, 2012, we operated properties accounting for approximately 81% of our PV-10, giving us substantial control over the timing and incurrence of operating and capital expenditures. We have identified numerous additional drilling locations on our existing leaseholds, the successful development of which we believe could significantly increase our production and proved reserves. Over the five years ended December 31, 2012, we drilled or participated in 146 gross (41.29 net) wells, of which 99% were commercially productive.
 
Our future oil and gas production, and therefore our success, is highly dependent upon our ability to find, acquire and develop additional reserves that are profitable to produce. The rate of production from our oil and gas properties and our proved reserves will decline as our reserves are produced unless we acquire additional properties containing proved reserves, conduct successful development and exploration activities or, through engineering studies, identify additional behind-pipe zones or secondary recovery reserves. We cannot assure you that our exploration and development activities will result in increases in our proved reserves. If our proved reserves decline in the future, our production may also decline and, consequently, our cash flow from operations and the amount that we are able to borrow under our credit facility may also decline. In addition, approximately 49% of our estimated proved reserves at December 31, 2012 were undeveloped. By their nature, estimates of undeveloped reserves are less certain. Recovery of such reserves will require significant capital expenditures and successful drilling operations. We may be unable to acquire or develop additional reserves, in which case our results of operations and financial condition could be adversely affected.
 
Operational Update

Williston Basin

In McKenzie County, North Dakota, the Lillibridge 5H, 6H, 7H and 8H are currently being fracture stimulated.   Post completion, the wells will be immediately turned to sales.   On the Jore Federal East pad, surface casing has been set on the Jore 1H, 2H and 4H.   The company is currently drilling the intermediate section of the Jore 1H after which the rig will mobilize to drill the intermediate sections of the Jore 2H and 4H.   Abraxas owns a working interest of approximately 34% and 76% in the Lillibridge and Jore pads, respectively. 

Eagle Ford Shale


25



In McMullen County, Texas, the Sting Ray A 8H averaged 1,381 boepd (1,281 barrels of oil per day, 604 mcf of natural gas per day) over the well’s first 30 full days of production.    The production rates for the well do not include the impact of natural gas liquids or shrinkage at the processing plant and include flared gas.  The company is currently rigging up on the 300 foot (40 acre) spaced twin to the Camaro A 1H, the Camaro A 2H.   Post the drilling of the Camaro A 2H the company plans to zipper frac the Camaro A 1H and Camaro A 2H simultaneously.   Abraxas owns an 18.75% working interest in the Sting Ray A 8H and a 25% working interest in the Camaro A 1H and Camaro A 2H.

In Atascosa County, Texas, Abraxas recently drilled and cased the Blue Eyes A 1H to 13,285 feet including a 5,000 foot lateral section.   The well is currently scheduled to be completed in late November.   Abraxas owns a 100% working interest in the Blue Eyes A 1H.

Permian Basin
In Nolan County, Texas, Abraxas successfully completed the Spires Ranch 129 2H.   The well took longer than anticipated to recover the load water from its stimulation and a thirty day production rate will be provided when available.   Abraxas owns a 100% working interest in the Spires Ranch 129 2H.
 
Results of Operations
 
The following table sets forth certain of our consolidated operating data for the periods presented:

 
 
 
Three Months Ended 
 September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended 
September 30,
 
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
Operating revenue: (1)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Oil sales
 
$
24,998

 
$
13,576

 
$
59,442

 
$
39,866

 
Gas sales
 
2,609

 
2,628

 
8,598

 
6,632

 
NGL sales
 
1,485

 
942

 
3,693

 
2,961

 
Other
 
3

 
24

 
52

 
42

 
 
 
$
29,095

 
$
17,170

 
$
71,785

 
$
49,501

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income (loss)
 
11,161

 
(11,359
)
 
17,796

 
(9,158
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Oil sales (MBbl)
 
251

 
163

 
632

 
468

 
Gas sales (MMcf)
 
870

 
1,064

 
2,709

 
3,047

 
NGL sales (MBbl)
 
43

 
30

 
110

 
80

 
Boe sales
 
440

 
370

 
1,193

 
1,056

 
Average oil sales price (per Bbl) (1)
 
$
99.43

 
$
83.13

 
$
94.12

 
$
85.23

 
Average gas sales price (per Mcf) (1)
 
$
3.00

 
$
2.47

 
$
3.17

 
$
2.18

 
Average NGL sales price (per Bbl)
 
$
34.20

 
$
31.69

 
$
33.54

 
$
37.04

 
Average oil equivalent price (Boe)
 
$
66.14

 
$
46.28

 
$
60.12

 
$
46.85

 
 
(1)
Revenue and average sales prices are before the impact of derivative activities.

Comparison of Three Months Ended September 30, 2013 to Three Months Ended September 30, 2012
Operating Revenue. During the three months ended September 30, 2013, operating revenue increased to $29.1 million from $17.2 million for the same period of 2012. The increase in revenue was primarily due to higher oil and NGL production as well as higher realized commodity prices. Increased commodity prices contributed $3.3 million to operating revenue. Increased oil and NGL sales volumes contributed $9.2million to operating revenue. Decreased gas sales volumes had a negative impact of $0.06 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2013.

Oil sales volumes increased to 251 MBbl during the three months ended September 30, 2013 from 163 MBbl for the same period of 2012. The increase in oil sales was due to new wells brought on line, offset by natural field declines and sales of non-core properties. New wells brought on production contributed 129 MBbl for the three months ended September 30, 2013. Gas

26



sales volumes decreased to 870 MMcf for the three months ended September 30, 2013 from 1,064 MMcf for the same period of 2012. The decrease in gas sales was due to natural field declines, offset by new wells brought on production. New wells brought on production contributed 125 MMcf for the three months ended September 30, 2013. NGL sales volumes increased to 43 MBbl for the three months ended September 30, 2013 from 30 MBbl for the same period of 2012. The increase in NGL sales was primarily due to increased gas production in West Texas and North Dakota that has a higher NGL content than our historical gas production.

Lease Operating Expenses (“LOE”). LOE for the three months ended September 30, 2013 decreased to $5.5 million from $6.8 million for the same period in 2012. LOE for the three months ended September 30, 2012 was impacted by significant higher non-recurring LOE over non-recurring LOE in the same period of 2013. LOE per Boe for the three months ended September 30, 2013 was $12.43 compared to $18.40 for the same period of 2012. The decrease per Boe was due to lower costs and higher sales volumes for the three months ended September 30, 2013 as compared to the same period of 2012, as well as the elimination of high LOE assets sold.
 
Production and Ad Valorem Taxes. Production and ad valorem taxes for the three months ended September 30, 2013 increased to $2.6 million from $1.7 million for the same period of 2012. The increase was primarily due to higher realized commodity prices and increased production in the quarter ended September 30, 2013 as compared to the same period of 2012.
General and Administrative (“G&A”) Expenses. G&A expenses, excluding stock-based compensation, for the three months ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012 was relatively flat at $1.9 million. G&A expense per Boe, excluding stock-based compensation, was $4.30 for the quarter ended September 30, 2013 compared to $5.00 for the same period of 2012. The decrease per Boe was due to higher production volumes in the third quarter of 2013 as compared to the same period of 2012.
Stock-based Compensation. Options granted to employees and directors are valued at the date of grant and expense is recognized over the options vesting period. In addition to options, restricted shares of the Company’s common stock have been granted and are valued at the date of grant and expense is recognized over their vesting period. For the quarters ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, stock-based compensation was $0.5 million and $0.4 million, respectively. The increase in 2013 was due to cancellations of options in the third quarter of 2012 which resulted in lower costs in 2012 as compared to 2013, as well as new options granted in 2013.
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization (“DD&A”) Expenses. DD&A expense for the three months ended September 30, 2013 increased to $7.3 million from $6.0 million for the same period of 2012. The increase was primarily the result of an increased production in the quarter ended September 30, 2013 as compared to the same period of 2012, partially offset by a decrease in the depletion base, due to ceiling limitation write-downs related to our Canadian properties. DD&A expense per Boe for the three months ended September 30, 2013 was $16.50 compared to $16.12 in 2012.

Ceiling Limitation Write-Down. We record the carrying value of our oil and gas properties using the full cost method of accounting for oil and gas properties. Under this method, we capitalize the cost to acquire, explore for and develop oil and gas properties. Under the full cost accounting rules, the net capitalized cost of oil and gas properties less related deferred taxes, are limited by country, to the lower of the unamortized cost or the cost ceiling, defined as the sum of the present value of estimated unescalated future net revenues from proved reserves, discounted at 10%, plus the cost of properties not being amortized, if any, plus the lower of cost or estimated fair value of unproved properties included in the costs being amortized, if any, less related income taxes. If the net capitalized cost of oil and gas properties exceeds the ceiling limit, we are subject to a ceiling limitation write-down to the extent of such excess. A ceiling limitation write-down is a charge to earnings which does not impact cash flow from operating activities. However, such write-downs do impact the amount of our stockholders' equity and reported earnings. As of September 30, 2012, our net capitalized costs of oil and gas properties in the United States did not exceed the present value of our estimated proved reserves, however the net capitalized cost of our oil and gas properties in Canada exceeded the present value of our estimated proved reserves resulting in write downs of $11.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012. As of September 30, 2013, our net capitalized costs of oil and gas properties in the United States did not exceed the present value of our estimated proved reserves, however the net capitalized cost of our oil and gas properties in Canada exceeded the present value of our estimated proved reserves resulting in a write down of $0.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013.

The risk that we will be required to write-down the carrying value of our oil and gas assets increases when oil and gas prices are depressed or volatile. In addition, write-downs may occur if we have substantial downward revisions in our estimated proved reserves. We cannot assure you that we will not experience additional write-downs in the future. If commodity prices decline or if any of our proved reserves are revised downward, a further write-down of the carrying value of our oil and gas properties may be required.

27



Interest Expense. Interest expense for the three months ended September 30, 2013 decreased to $1.1 million from $1.6 million for the same period of 2012. The decrease was primarily due to higher debt levels in 2012 as compared to the same period of 2013.

(Gain) loss on derivative contracts. We account for derivative contract gains and losses based on realized and unrealized amounts. The realized derivative gains or losses are determined by actual derivative settlements during the period. Unrealized gains and losses are based on the periodic mark to market valuation of derivative contracts in place. Our derivative contracts do not qualify for hedge accounting as prescribed by ASC 815; therefore, fluctuations in the market value of the derivative contracts are recognized in earnings during the current period. Our derivative contracts consist of commodity swaps and interest rate swaps. Our interest rate swaps expired in August 2012. The estimated value of our commodity derivative contracts was a liability of approximately $4.6 million as of September 30, 2013. When our derivative contract prices are higher than prevailing market prices, we incur realized and unrealized gains and conversely, when our derivative contract prices are lower than prevailing market prices, we incur realized and unrealized losses. For the three months ended September 30, 2013, we realized a loss on our commodity derivative contracts of $2.1 million and we incurred an unrealized loss of $4.5 million on our commodity derivative contracts. For the three months ended September 30, 2012, we realized a loss on our commodity derivative contracts of $1.0 million and we incurred an unrealized loss of $4.3 million on our commodity derivative contracts.
Earnings from equity method investment. Through August 31, 2012 we accounted for the joint venture under the equity method of accounting as prescribed by ASC 323. Under this method, Abraxas’ share of net income (loss) from the joint venture was reflected as an increase (decrease) in its investment account in “Investment in joint venture” and was also recorded as equity investment income (loss) in “Earnings from equity method investment.” The joint venture was dissolved on September 4, 2012 effective August 31, 2012, with the assets being distributed to the joint venture partners. The dissolution of the joint venture was accounted for as a business combination. For the three months ended September 30, 2012, through August 31, 2012, we reported income of $0.3 million related to Blue Eagle. See Note 2 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Comparison of Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013 to Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012
Operating Revenue. Operating revenue increased to $71.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 from $49.5 million for the same period of 2012. The increase in revenue was primarily due to higher oil and NGL sales volumes. Increased sales volumes of oil and NGL contributed $16.4 million to operating revenue, offset by a decrease gas sales volumes which had a negative impact of $1.1 million on operating revenue. Increased realized commodity prices for oil and gas added $7.2 million to operating revenue.

Oil sales volumes increased to 632 MBbl during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 from 468 MBbl for the same period of 2012. The increase in oil sales was due to new wells being brought on line, primarily in the Bakken and Eagle Ford plays partially offset by natural field declines and sales of non-core properties. New wells brought onto production contributed 225 MBbl for the nine months ended September 30, 2013. Gas sales volumes decreased to 2,709 MMcf for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 from 3,047 MMcf for the same period of 2012. The decrease in gas sales was due to natural field declines offset by new wells brought on line. New wells brought onto production contributed 207 MMcf for the nine months ended September 30, 2013. NGL sales volumes increased to 110 MBbl for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 from 80 MBbl for the same period of 2012. The increase in NGL sales was primarily due to increased gas production in West Texas and North Dakota that has a higher NGL content than our historical gas production.

Lease Operating Expenses (“LOE”). LOE for each of the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 was $18.1 million. LOE per Boe for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 was $15.17 compared to $17.18 for the same period of 2012. The decrease per Boe was due to higher sales volumes for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 as compared to the same period of 2012 as well as the elimination of high LOE assets sold.

Production and Ad Valorem Taxes. Production and ad valorem taxes for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 increased to $6.5 million from $4.7 million for the same period of 2012. The increase was primarily the result of higher oil and NGL sales volumes for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 as compared to the same period of 2012.
General and Administrative (“G&A”) Expenses. G&A expenses, excluding stock-based compensation, for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 increased to $6.1 million from $5.0 million for the same period of 2012. The increase in G&A expense was primarily related to professional fees in connection with a proxy contest in 2013 as well as an increase in overall salaries. G&A expense, excluding stock based compensation, per Boe was $5.09 for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 compared to $4.70 for the same period of 2012. The increase per Boe was primarily due to higher costs offset by the impact of higher production volumes in the first nine months of 2013 compared to the same period in 2012.

28



Stock-based Compensation. Options granted to employees and directors are valued at the date of grant and expense is recognized over the options vesting period. In addition to options, restricted shares of the Company’s common stock have been granted and are valued at the date of grant and expense is recognized over their vesting period. For the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, stock-based compensation was approximately $1.7 million and $1.6 million, respectively. The increase in 2013 was due to stock option grants in the second quarter of 2013.
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization (“DD&A”) Expenses. DD&A expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 increased to $19.5 million from $16.2 million for same period of 2012. The increase was primarily the result of increased production in the nine months ended September 30, 2013 as compared to the same period of 2012, partially offset by a decrease in the depletion base, due to ceiling limitation write-downs related to our Canadian properties. DD&A expense per Boe for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 was $16.38 compared to $15.34 in 2012.

Ceiling Limitation Write-Down. We record the carrying value of our oil and gas properties using the full cost method of accounting for oil and gas properties. Under this method, we capitalize the cost to acquire, explore for and develop oil and gas properties. Under the full cost accounting rules, the net capitalized cost of oil and gas properties less related deferred taxes, are limited by country, to the lower of the unamortized cost or the cost ceiling, defined as the sum of the present value of estimated unescalated future net revenues from proved reserves, discounted at 10%, plus the cost of properties not being amortized, if any, plus the lower of cost or estimated fair value of unproved properties included in the costs being amortized, if any, less related income taxes. If the net capitalized cost of oil and gas properties exceeds the ceiling limit, we are subject to a ceiling limitation write-down to the extent of such excess. A ceiling limitation write-down is a charge to earnings which does not impact cash flow from operating activities. However, such write-downs do impact the amount of our stockholders' equity and reported earnings. As of June 30, 2012 and September 30, 2012, the net capitalized cost of our oil and gas properties in Canada exceeded the present value of our estimated proved reserves, resulting in write downs of $11.8 million and $13.1million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively. As of September 30, 2013, the net capitalized cost of our oil and gas properties in Canada exceeded the present value of our estimated proved reserves, resulting in a write downs for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 of $0.1 million and $2.1 million, respectively.

The risk that we will be required to write-down the carrying value of our oil and gas assets increases when oil and gas prices are depressed or volatile. In addition, write-downs may occur if we have substantial downward revisions in our estimated proved reserves. We cannot assure you that we will not experience additional write-downs in the future. If commodity prices decline or if any of our proved reserves are revised downward, a further write-down of the carrying value of our oil and gas properties may be required.
Interest Expense. Interest expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 decreased to $3.6 million from $4.1 million for the same period of 2012. The decrease was primarily due to lower debt levels in 2013 as compared to the same period of 2012. Debt levels were lower as a result of proceeds from the sales of oil and gas properties being used to reduce debt.

(Gain) loss on derivative contracts. We account for derivative contract gains and losses based on realized and unrealized amounts. The realized derivative gains or losses are determined by actual derivative settlements during the period. Unrealized gains and losses are based on the periodic mark to market valuation of derivative contracts in place. Our derivative contract transactions do not qualify for hedge accounting as prescribed by ASC 815; therefore, fluctuations in the market value of the derivative contracts are recognized in earnings during the current period. Our derivative contracts consist of commodity swaps and interest rate swaps. The estimated value of our commodity derivative contracts was a liability of approximately $4.6 million as of September 30, 2013. When our derivative contract prices are higher than prevailing market prices, we incur realized and unrealized gains and conversely, when our derivative contract prices are lower than prevailing market prices, we incur realized and unrealized losses. For the nine months ended September 30, 2013, we realized a loss on our commodity derivative contracts of $3.8 million and an unrealized gain of $2.4 million. For the nine months ended September 30, 2012 we incurred a realized gain of $ 0.8 million,which included a realized gain of $1.0 million on our commodity swaps and a realized loss of $0.2 million on our interest rate swap, and an unrealized gain of $4.2 million on our commodity derivative contracts. The interest rate swap expired in August 2012.
Earnings from equity method investment. Through August 31, 2012 we accounted for the joint venture under the equity method of accounting. Under this method, Abraxas’ share of net income (loss) from the joint venture was reflected as an increase (decrease) in its investment account in “Investment in joint venture” and was also recorded as equity investment income (loss) in “Earnings from equity method investment.” The joint venture was dissolved effective September 4, 2012, with the assets being distributed to the joint venture partners. The dissolution was accounted for as a business combination. For the nine months ended September 30, 2012, we reported income of $2.3 million related to Blue Eagle. See Note 2 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

29



Income Tax. Income tax expense for the period ended June 30, 2013 is related to income taxes assessed as a result of an Internal Revenue Service examination of our 2009 Federal income tax return as well as various state taxes. For the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company accrued $310,000 in income tax expense related to the audit of its 2009 Federal tax return. This amount was determined by an analysis of what the amount that is greater than 50% likely to be paid upon final settlement. On July 23, 2013, we settled the assessment for $391,000 resulting in $81,000 being recognized as expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2013.

Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
General. The oil and gas industry is a highly capital intensive and cyclical business. Our capital requirements are driven principally by our obligations to service debt and to fund the following:

the development and exploration of existing properties, including drilling and completion costs of wells;

acquisition of interests in additional oil and gas properties; and

production and transportation facilities.

The amount of capital expenditures we are able to make has a direct impact on our ability to increase cash flow from operations and, thereby, will directly affect our ability to service our debt obligations and to grow the business through the development of existing properties and the acquisition of new properties.
 
Our principal sources of capital are cash flow from operations, borrowings under our credit facility, cash on hand, proceeds from the sale of properties, and if an opportunity presents itself, the sale of debt or equity securities, although we may not be able to complete any financings on terms acceptable to us, if at all.
 
Working Capital (Deficit). At September 30, 2013, our current liabilities of $76.8 million exceeded our current assets of approximately $44.2 million, resulting in working capital deficit of $32.6 million. This compares to a working capital deficit of $31.5 million at December 31, 2012. Current assets at September 30, 2013 primarily consist of accounts receivable of $37.9 million and cash of $5.0 million. Current liabilities at September 30, 2013 primarily consisted of trade payables of $40.8 million, revenues due third parties of $28.0 million, current portion of derivative liabilities of $3.8 million, current maturities of long-term debt of $2.1 million and accrued liabilities of $2.2 million.

Capital expenditures. Capital expenditures during the nine ended September 30, 2013 were $60.9 million compared to $53.5 million during the same period of 2012.
 
The table below sets forth the components of these capital expenditures:  
 
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
Expenditure category:
 
 
 
 
 
Development and land
 
$
59,855

 
$
49,738

 
Facilities and other
 
1,034

 
3,761

 
Total
 
$
60,889

 
$
53,499

 

During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, capital expenditures were primarily for development of our existing oil and gas properties. During the nine months ended September 30, 2012 capital expenditures were primarily for development of our existing oil and gas properties and the completion of the refurbishment of our drilling rig. We anticipate making capital expenditures in 2013 of $85.0 million. The 2013 capital expenditure budget is subject to change depending upon a number of factors, including the availability and costs of drilling and service equipment and crews, economic and industry conditions at the time of drilling, prevailing and anticipated prices for oil and gas, the availability of sufficient capital resources, and our ability to obtain permits for drilling locations. Our capital expenditures could also include expenditures for the acquisition of producing properties, if such opportunities arise.  Additionally, the level of capital expenditures will vary during future periods depending on economic and industry conditions and commodity prices. Should the prices of oil and gas decline and if our costs of operations increase or if our production volumes decrease, our cash flows will decrease which may result in a reduction of the capital expenditure budget. If we decrease our capital expenditure budget, we may not be able to offset oil and gas production decreases caused by natural field declines.

30



 
Sources of Capital. The net funds provided by and/or used in each of the operating, investing and financing activities are summarized in the following table and discussed in further detail below: 
 
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
Net cash provided by operating activities
 
$
35,998

 
$
31,330

 
Net cash used in investing activities
 
(18,745
)
 
(47,474
)
 
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities
 
(14,347
)
 
18,759

 
Total
 
$
2,906

 
$
2,615

 

Operating activities during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 provided $36.0 million of cash compared to providing $31.3 million in the same period of 2012.  For the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, net income plus non-cash expense items accounted for most of these funds. In addition the monetization of our gas hedges on March 12, 2012 provided $12.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012.  Investing activities used $18.7 million, net of proceeds from the sale of oil and gas properties, during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 compared to using $47.5 million for the same period of 2012. Funds used during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 were expenditures for the development of our existing properties offset by property sales of $42.1 million.  Funds used during the nine months ended September 30, 2012 were expenditures for the development of our existing properties and the completion of the refurbishment of our drilling rig.  Financing activities used $14.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 compared to providing $18.8 million for the same period in 2012. Funds provided during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 were primarily borrowings under our credit facility. Funds provided during the nine months ended September 30, 2012 were primarily proceeds from borrowings under our credit facility.

Future Capital Resources. Our principal sources of capital going forward are cash flows from operations, borrowings under our credit facility, cash on hand, proceeds from the sale of properties, and if an opportunity presents itself, the sale of debt or equity securities, although we may not be able to complete financing on terms acceptable to us, if at all.

Cash from operating activities is dependent upon commodity prices and production volumes.  A decrease in commodity prices from current levels could reduce our cash flows from operations.  This could cause us to alter our business plans, including reducing our exploration and development plans.  Unless we otherwise expand and develop reserves, our production volumes may decline as reserves are produced.  In the future we may continue to sell producing properties, which could further reduce our production volumes. To offset the loss in production volumes resulting from natural field declines and sales of producing properties, we must conduct successful exploration and development activities, acquire additional producing properties or identify and develop additional behind-pipe zones or secondary recovery reserves. We believe our numerous drilling opportunities will allow us to increase our production volumes; however, our drilling activities are subject to numerous risks, including the risk that no commercially productive oil and gas reservoirs will be found.  If our proved reserves decline in the future, our production will also decline and, consequently, our cash flow from operations and the amount that we are able to borrow under our credit facility will also decline. The risk of not finding commercially productive reservoirs will be compounded by the fact that 49% of our total estimated proved reserves at December 31, 2012 were classified as undeveloped.

We have in the past, and may, in the future, sell producing properties. Most recently, in the second quarter of 2013, we agreed to sell certain non-core, non-operated properties. This sale closed in August 2013, for net proceeds of approximately $38.3 million. In the first and second quarter of 2013, we sold certain non-core assets for net proceeds of $3.8 million and in the third quarter of 2012, we sold certain non-core assets for combined net proceeds of approximately $21.5 million. This transaction closed in and the proceeds were received in the fourth quarter of 2012. The net proceeds were used to repay outstanding indebtedness under our credit facility and general corporate purposes.
 
Contractual Obligations. We are committed to making cash payments in the future on the following types of agreements: 
Long-term debt, and
Operating leases for office facilities. 

Below is a schedule of the future payments that we are obligated to make based on agreements in place as of September 30, 2013:
 

31



 
 
Payments due in twelve month periods ending:
 
 
 
 
 
September 30,
 
 
 
 
 
Total
 
2014
 
2015-2016
 
2017-2018
 
Thereafter
 
Long-term debt (1)
 
$
110,608

 
$
2,113

 
$
103,505

 
$
1,572

 
$
3,418

 
Interest on long-term debt (2) 
 
8,523

 
3,326

 
4,220

 
330

 
647

 
Lease obligations (3)
 
41

 
41

 

 

 

 
Total
 
$
119,172

 
$
5,480

 
$
107,725

 
$
1,902

 
$
4,065

 
___________________ 
(1)
These amounts represent the balances outstanding under our credit facility, the rig loan agreement and the real estate lien note. These repayments assume that we will not borrow additional funds.
(2)
Interest expense assumes the balances of long-term debt at the end of the period and current effective interest rates.
(3)
Lease on office space in Calgary, Alberta, which expires on January 31, 2014 and office space in Dickinson, North Dakota, which expires on September 30, 2014.
We maintain a reserve for costs associated with the retirement of tangible long-lived assets. At September 30, 2013, our reserve for these obligations totaled $10.2 million for which no contractual commitment exists. For additional information relating to this obligation, see Note 1 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements. At September 30, 2013, we had no existing off-balance sheet arrangements, as defined under SEC regulations, which have or are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources.

Contingencies. From time to time, we are involved in litigation relating to claims arising out of our operations in the normal course of business. At September 30, 2013, we were not engaged in any legal proceedings that were expected, individually or in the aggregate, to have a material adverse effect on the Company.

Other Obligations. We make and will continue to make substantial capital expenditures for the acquisition, development, exploration and production of oil and gas. In the past, we have funded our operations and capital expenditures primarily through cash flow from operations, sales of properties, sales of production payments and borrowings under our credit facilities and other sources. Given our high degree of operating control, the timing and incurrence of capital expenditures is largely within our discretion.


Long-Term Indebtedness
 
The following table summarizes the Company’s long-term debt:

 
 
September 30, 2013
 
December 31, 2012
 
Credit facility
 
$
99,000

 
$
113,000

 
Rig loan agreement
 
7,000

 
7,000

 
Real estate lien note
 
4,608

 
4,758

 
 
 
110,608

 
124,758

 
Less current maturities
 
(2,113
)
 
(657
)
 
 
 
$
108,495

 
$
124,101

 

Credit Facility

We have a senior secured credit facility with Société Générale, as administrative agent and issuing lender, and certain other lenders, which we refer to as the credit facility.  As of September 30, 2013, $99.0 million was outstanding and $48.0 million was available under the credit facility.


32



The credit facility has a maximum commitment of $300.0 million and availability is subject to a borrowing base. As of September 30, 2013 we had a borrowing base of $147.0 million. The borrowing base is determined semi-annually by the lenders based upon our reserve reports, one of which must be prepared by our independent petroleum engineers and one of which may be prepared internally. The amount of the borrowing base is calculated by the lenders based upon their valuation of our Proved reserves securing the facility utilizing these reserve reports and their own internal decisions. In addition, the lenders, in their sole discretion, are able to make one additional borrowing base redetermination during any six-month period between scheduled redeterminations and we are able to request one redetermination during any six-month period between scheduled redeterminations.  The borrowing base will be automatically reduced in connection with any sales of producing properties with a market value of 5% or more of our then-current borrowing base and in connection with any hedge termination which could reduce the collateral value by 5% or more. On September 25, 2013 our borrowing base was increased to $147.0 million based upon our reserve report dated June 30, 2013. Our borrowing base can never exceed the $300.0 million maximum commitment amount.  Outstanding amounts under the credit facility bear interest at (a) the greater of (1) the reference rate announced from time to time by Société Générale, (2) the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.5%, and (3) a rate determined by Société Générale as the daily one-month LIBOR plus, in each case, (b) 1.25—2.25%, depending on the utilization of the borrowing base, or, if we elect LIBOR plus 2.25%—3.25%, depending on the utilization of the borrowing base. At September 30, 2013, the interest rate on the credit facility was 2.9% based on 1-month LIBOR borrowings and level of utilization.

Subject to earlier termination rights and events of default, the stated maturity date of the credit facility is June 30, 2015. Interest is payable quarterly on reference rate advances and not less than quarterly on LIBOR advances. We are permitted to terminate the credit facility and are able, from time to time, to permanently reduce the lenders’ aggregate commitment under the credit facility in compliance with certain notice and dollar increment requirements.

Each of our subsidiaries has guaranteed our obligations under the credit facility on a senior secured basis. Obligations under the credit facility are secured by a first priority perfected security interest, subject to certain permitted encumbrances, in all of our and our subsidiary guarantors’ material property and assets, other than Raven Drilling.

Under the credit facility, we are subject to customary covenants, including certain financial covenants and reporting requirements.  We are required to maintain a current ratio, as of the last day of each quarter of not less than 1.00 to 1.00 and an interest coverage ratio of not less than 2.50 to 1.00.  We are also required as of the last day of each quarter to maintain a total debt to EBITDAX ratio as of the last day of each quarter of not more than 4.00 to 1.00. The current ratio is defined as the ratio of consolidated current assets to consolidated current liabilities.  For the purposes of this calculation, current assets include the portion of the borrowing base which is undrawn but excludes any cash deposited with a counter-party to a hedging arrangement and any assets representing a valuation account arising from the application of ASC 815 and ASC 410-20 and current liabilities exclude the current portion of long-term debt and any liabilities representing a valuation account arising from the application of ASC 815 and ASC 410-20.  The interest coverage ratio is defined as the ratio of consolidated EBITDAX to consolidated interest expense for the four fiscal quarters ended on the calculation date. For the purposes of this calculation, EBITDAX is defined as the sum of consolidated net income plus interest expense, oil and gas exploration expenses, income, franchise or margin taxes, depreciation, amortization, depletion and other non-cash charges including non-cash charges resulting from the application of ASC 718, ASC 815 and ASC 410-20 plus all realized net cash proceeds arising from the settlement or monetization of any hedge contracts minus all non-cash items of income which were included in determining consolidated net income, including all non-cash items resulting from the application of ASC 815 and ASC 410-20. Interest expense includes total interest, letter of credit fees and other fees and expenses incurred in connection with any debt. The total debt to EBITDAX ratio is defined as the ratio of total debt to consolidated EBITDAX for the four fiscal quarters ended on the calculation date.  For the purposes of this calculation, total debt is the outstanding principal amount of debt, excluding debt associated with the office building, Raven Drilling rig loan and obligations with respect to surety bonds and derivative contracts.
 
At September 30, 2013, we were in compliance with all of our debt covenants.   As of September 30, 2013, the interest coverage ratio was 9.68 to 1.00, the total debt to EBITDAX ratio was 2.32 to 1.00 and our current ratio was 1.29 to 1.00.
 
The credit facility contains a number of covenants that, among other things, restrict our ability to:
incur or guarantee additional indebtedness;
transfer or sell assets;
create liens on assets;
engage in transactions with affiliates other than on an “arm’s length” basis;
make any change in the principal nature of our business; and
permit a change of control.

33



 
The credit facility also contains customary events of default, including nonpayment of principal or interest, violations of covenants, cross default and cross acceleration to certain other indebtedness, bankruptcy and material judgments and liabilities.
 
Rig Loan Agreement
 
On September 19, 2011, Raven Drilling entered into a rig loan agreement with RBS Asset Finance, Inc. to finance the costs of purchasing and refurbishing an Oilwell 2000 hp diesel electric drilling rig (the “Collateral”). The rig loan agreement provided for interim borrowings payable to Raven Drilling until the final amount of the loan was determined. 

On February 14, 2012, Raven Drilling finalized the note with respect to the rig loan agreement.  The principal amount of the note is $7.0 million and bears interest at 4.26%.  Interest only is due for the first 18-months of the note and thereafter, the note will amortize in full over the remaining life of the note.  Interest and principal, when required, is payable monthly.  Subject to earlier prepayment provisions and events of default, the stated maturity date of the note is February 14, 2017. As of September 30, 2013, $7.0 million was outstanding under the rig loan agreement.

Abraxas Petroleum has guaranteed Raven Drilling’s obligations under the rig loan agreement and associated note.  Obligations under the rig loan agreement are secured by a first priority perfected security interest, subject to certain permitted encumbrances, in the Collateral.

Real Estate Lien Note

On May 9, 2008, the Company entered into an advancing line of credit in the amount of $5.4 million for the purchase and finish out of a building to serve as its corporate headquarters. This note was refinanced in November 2008.  The note was modified on April 4, 2013, reducing the interest to a fixed rate of 4.0%, effective March 13, 2013 and was payable in monthly installments of principal and interest of $33,763 based on a twenty year amortization. This note was modified on July 20, 2013. The modification extended the maturity date to July 20, 2023. The note will bear interest for five years at a fixed rate of 4.25% and is payable in monthly installments of $34,354. Beginning August 20, 2018, the interest rate will adjust to the current bank prime rate plus 1.00% with a maximum rate of 7.25% . The note is secured by a first lien deed of trust on the property and improvements. As of September 30, 2013, $4.6 million was outstanding on the note.

Hedging Activities
 
Our results of operations are significantly affected by fluctuations in commodity prices and we seek to reduce our exposure to price volatility by hedging our production through swaps, options and other commodity derivative instruments.

The following table sets forth our derivative contract position as of September 30, 2013:

 
 
Fixed Price Swap
 
 
 
Oil – WTI
 
Oil - Brent
 
Oil - LLS
 
Contract Periods
 
Daily Volume (Bbl)
 
Swap Price (per Bbl)
 
Daily Volume (Bbl)
 
Swap Price (per Bbl)
 
Daily Volume (Bbl)
 
Swap Price (per Bbl)
 
2013
 
1,007

 
$
84.76

 
510

 
$
105.00

 
283

 
$
106.75

 
2014
 
687

 
$
94.16

 
505

 
$
100.56

 
100

 
$
101.26

 
2015
 
560

 
$
83.03

 
500

 
$
97.04

 

 
$

 
2016
 
963

 
$
84.10

 

 
$

 

 
$

 
2017
 
500

 
$
84.18

 

 
$

 

 
$

 

 
By removing a significant portion of price volatility on our future oil and gas production, we believe that we will mitigate, but not eliminate, the potential effects of changing commodity prices on our cash flow from operations.  However, when prevailing market prices are higher than our contract prices, we will not realize increased cash flow on the portion of the production that has been hedged.  We have sustained, and in the future will sustain, realized and unrealized losses on our derivative contracts when market prices are higher than our contract prices. Conversely, when prevailing market prices are lower than our contract prices, we will sustain realized and unrealized gains on our commodity derivative contracts.  If the disparity between our contract prices and market prices continues, we will sustain realized and unrealized gains or losses on our derivative contracts. While unrealized

34



gains and losses do not impact our cash flow from operations, realized gains and losses do impact our cash flow from operations.  In addition, as our derivative contracts expire over time, we expect to enter into new derivative contracts at then-current market prices.  If the prices at which we hedge future production are significantly lower than our existing derivative contracts, our future cash flow from operations would likely be materially lower. In addition, the borrowings under our credit facility bear interest at floating rates. If interest expense increases as a result of higher interest rates or increased borrowings, more cash flow from operations would be used to meet debt service requirements.  As a result, we would need to increase our cash flow from operations in order to fund the development of our drilling opportunities which, in turn, will be dependent upon the level of our production volumes and commodity prices.
 
See “—Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk—Derivative Instruments” for further information.
 
Net Operating Loss Carryforwards.
 
At December 31, 2012, we had, subject to limitation , $169.6 million of net operating loss carryforwards for U.S. tax purposes and $15.0 million for Canadian tax purposes. The U.S. loss carryforwards will expire through 2032 and the Canadian carryforward will expire in 2032, if not utilized.
 
Uncertainties exist as to the future utilization of the operating loss carryforwards under the criteria set forth under ASC 740-10 “Income Taxes”. Therefore, we have established a valuation allowance of $89.7 million for deferred tax assets at December 31, 2012.
 
We account for uncertain tax positions under the provisions of ASC 740-10. ASC 740-10 did not have any effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations for the three and nine months  ended September 30, 2013. The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in income tax expense. As of September 30, 2013, the Company did not have any accrued interest or penalties related to uncertain tax positions. The tax years from 2010 through 2012 remain open to examination by the tax jurisdictions to which the Company is subject. The Company and Abraxas Energy Partners, L.P., which was merged into a wholly owned subsidiary of Abraxas, have undergone an audit of their 2009 Federal income tax returns. The audit of the Federal income tax return of Abraxas Energy Partners, L.P. was completed with no changes. The audit of Abraxas Petroleum Corporation resulted in a notice of proposed adjustment of $619,000. For the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company accrued $310,000 in income tax expense related to the recent audit of its 2009 Federal tax return. This amount was determined by an analysis of what the amount that is greater than 50% likely to be paid upon final settlement. On July 23, 2013, we settled the assessment for $391,000 resulting in $81,000 being recognized as expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2013.

35



Item 3.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk.
 
Commodity Price Risk

As an independent oil and gas producer, our revenue, cash flow from operations, other income and profitability, reserve values, access to capital and future rate of growth are substantially dependent upon the prevailing prices of oil and gas. Declines in commodity prices will adversely affect our financial condition, liquidity, ability to obtain financing and operating results. Lower commodity prices may reduce the amount of oil and gas that we can produce economically. Prevailing prices for such commodities are subject to wide fluctuation in response to relatively minor changes in supply and demand and a variety of additional factors beyond our control, such as global, political and economic conditions. Historically, prices received for our oil and gas production have been volatile and unpredictable, and such volatility is expected to continue. Most of our production is sold at market prices. Generally, if the commodity indexes fall, the price that we receive for our production will also decline. Therefore, the amount of revenue that we realize is partially determined by factors beyond our control. Assuming the production levels we attained during the nine months ended September 30, 2013, a 10% decline in oil and gas prices would have reduced our operating revenue, cash flow and net income by approximately $7.2 million; however, due to the derivative contracts that we have in place, it is unlikely that a 10% decline in commodity prices from their current levels would significantly impact our operating revenue, cash flow and net income.

Derivative Instrument Sensitivity
 
We account for our derivative contracts in accordance with ASC 815. The derivative instruments we utilize are based on index prices that may and often do differ from the actual oil and gas prices realized in our operations.  Management has elected not to apply hedge accounting as prescribed by ASC 815; therefore, fluctuations in the market value of the derivative contracts are recognized in earnings during the current period.

The following table sets forth our derivative contract position as of September 30, 2013:
 
 
Fixed Price Swap
 
 
 
Oil – WTI
 
Oil - Brent
 
Oil - LLS
 
Contract Periods
 
Daily Volume (Bbl)
 
Swap Price (per Bbl)
 
Daily Volume (Bbl)
 
Swap Price (per Bbl)
 
Daily Volume (Bbl)
 
Swap Price (per Bbl)
 
2013
 
1,007

 
$
84.76

 
510

 
$
105.00

 
283

 
$
106.75

 
2014
 
687

 
$
94.16

 
505

 
$
100.56

 
100

 
$
101.26

 
2015
 
560

 
$
83.03

 
500

 
$
97.04

 

 
$

 
2016
 
963

 
$
84.10

 

 
$

 

 
$

 
2017
 
500

 
$
84.18

 

 
$

 

 
$

 
 
At September 30, 2013, the aggregate fair market value of our commodity derivative contracts was a liability of approximately $4.6 million .
 
For the nine months ended September 30, 2013, we recognized a realized loss of $3.8 million and an unrealized gain of $2.4 million on our commodity derivative contracts.

Interest Rate Risk

We are subject to interest rate risk associated with borrowings under our credit facility.  As of September 30, 2013, we had $99.0 million of outstanding indebtedness under our credit facility. Outstanding amounts under the credit facility bear interest at (a) the greater of (1) the reference rate announced from time to time by Société Générale, (2) the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.5%, and (3) a rate determined by Société Générale as the daily one-month LIBOR plus, in each case, (b) 1.25%—2.25%, depending on the utilization of the borrowing base, or, if we elect,  LIBOR plus 2.25%—3.25%, depending on the utilization of the borrowing base. At September 30, 2013, the interest rate on the credit facility was 2.9%. For every percentage point that the LIBOR rate rises, our interest expense would increase by approximately $1.0 million on an annual basis, based on our outstanding indebtedness as of September 30, 2013.

 
Item 4. Controls and Procedures.


36



As of the end of the period covered by this report, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer carried out an evaluation of the effectiveness of Abraxas’ “disclosure controls and procedures” (as defined in the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 Rules 13a-15(e)and 15d-15(e)) and concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

There were no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 covered by this report that could materially affect, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our financial reporting.

37



ABRAXAS PETROLEUM CORPORATION
 
PART II
OTHER INFORMATION
 
Item 1.              Legal Proceedings.

From time to time, the Company is involved in litigation relating to claims arising out of its operations in the normal course of business. At September 30, 2013, the Company was not engaged in any legal proceedings that are expected, individually or in the aggregate, to have a material adverse impact on its operations.

Item 1A.           Risk Factors.

In addition to the other information set forth in this report, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part I, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012, which could materially affect our business, financial condition or future results. The risks described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K are not the only risks facing Abraxas. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial also may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and/or operating results.


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

None

Item 3.    Defaults Upon Senior Securities.

None

Item 4.    Mine Safety Disclosure.

Not applicable


Item 5.    Other Information.

None

Item 6.    Exhibits.

(a)
Exhibits
 
Exhibit 31.1
 
Certification - Robert L.G. Watson, CEO
 
 
Exhibit 31.2
 
Certification - Geoffrey R. King, CFO
 
 
Exhibit 32.1
 
Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 - Robert L.G. Watson, CEO
 
 
Exhibit 32.2
 
Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 - Geoffrey R. King, CFO
 


38



ABRAXAS PETROLEUM CORPORATION
 
SIGNATURES
 

 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 

 

Date:
November 7, 2013
 
By: /s/Robert L.G. Watson                                                    
 
 
 
ROBERT L.G. WATSON,
 
 
 
President and Principal
 
 
 
Executive Officer

Date:
November 7, 2013
 
By: /s/Geoffrey R. King                                                   
 
 
 
GEOFFREY R. KING,
 
 
 
Vice President and
 
 
 
Principal Financial Officer

Date:
November 7, 2013
 
By: /s/G. William Krog, Jr.                                             
 
 
 
G. WILLIAM KROG, JR.,
 
 
 
Principal Accounting Officer




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