RE: WTF9 Mar 2022 13:42
The defining element of Tullow's 2022 performance will be its excessively risk-averse hedge book following last year's refinancing -- with about 60% of its 2022 sales volume locked at an average ceiling of $78 a barrel --undermining exposure to oil-price upside. A supportive commodity backdrop is contributing to a further easing of balance-sheet risk, though net debt and leverage remain above comfort levels. That makes deleveraging a primary strategic objective, with the 1.5x leverage target unlikely to be achieved until end-2023. Higher 2022 capital spending of $350 million reflects accelerating drilling activity in Ghana, but it isn't translating into near-term operational performance, with broadly flat, underwhelming production guidance this year (prior to pre-emption)