Why EOG Resources Inc. Is a Better Investment Than Canadian Natural Resources Limited

We compare Canadian Natural Resources Inc. (TSX:CNQ)(NYSE:CNQ) to EOG Resources Inc. (NYSE:EOG), the largest American shale oil producer, to determine the better pick.

| More on:
The Motley Fool

On Thursday of last week, Canadian Natural Resources Ltd. (TSX:CNQ)(NYSE:CNQ) President Steve Laut warned that the Canada’s oil sands industry faces a “death spiral” if it doesn’t cut costs.

And Mr. Laut is backing up his words. CNRL has sent letters to its suppliers asking what can be done to cut rates. Most replied that a 10% reduction is possible, but CNRL has stated it wants bigger discounts. The question is, will that even be enough? After all, American drillers generally face lower costs. But just how big is this advantage?

To answer these questions, we take a look at EOG Resources Inc. (NYSE:EOG), the largest shale oil producer in the United States. We’ll also compare EOG with its Canadian counterparts, including CNRL.

EOG certainly has lower costs

For the year 2015, EOG Resources expects production costs to average less than US$7 per barrel of oil equivalent (BOE). Meanwhile, the production expense at CNRL was just over $18 per barrel in its most recent quarter.

Granted, this isn’t a perfect comparison. Natural gas (which comes with lower production costs, as well as prices) accounts for nearly half of EOG’s expected production—a much bigger proportion than that at CNRL. But there’s plenty of other evidence that EOG is better positioned for lower oil prices.

EOG’s economics are stronger

EOG’s investor presentation provides some nice clues about the economics of its operations. One slide highlights four plays that together, account for nearly 90% of the company’s drilling locations. And all four of them earn greater than a 35% rate of return with oil prices of US$55. So, even with oil prices below US$50, EOG can keep drilling as long as it likes.

Meanwhile, CNRL reported just a 9% annual return on capital employed last fall, and that was with oil prices averaging close to US$100 per barrel. Needless to say, CNRL will have a much tougher time coping with low oil prices than EOG.

So, what should investors do?

First of all, you shouldn’t count on a quick oil price recovery. American drillers such as EOG don’t have to stop production any time soon, and as long as supply is maintained, prices will stay low.

Second, you should probably avoid any Canadian oil stocks at this point. In Canada, there seems to be a belief that low oil prices are temporary. As a result, stock prices haven’t fallen as far as they should have. Only when investors have truly given up on the sector—and producers have taken Mr. Laut’s advice—should you think about betting on a rebound.

This article represents the opinion of the writer, who may disagree with the “official” recommendation position of a Motley Fool premium service or advisor. We’re Motley! Questioning an investing thesis — even one of our own — helps us all think critically about investing and make decisions that help us become smarter, happier, and richer, so we sometimes publish articles that may not be in line with recommendations, rankings or other content.

Fool contributor Benjamin Sinclair has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool owns shares of EOG Resources, Inc..

More on Energy Stocks

Money growing in soil , Business success concept.
Energy Stocks

If You Like Cenovus Energy, Then You’ll Love These High-Yield Oil Stocks

While Cenovus Energy is a quality oil stock, its dividend yield doesn't compare to the yields of Suncor or Canadian…

Read more »

Man considering whether to sell or buy
Energy Stocks

So You Own Algonquin Stock: Is It Still a Good Investment? 

Investors who purchased Algonquin stock in 2022 are 40% in the red as the company underwent restructuring. Is it still…

Read more »

Oil pumps against sunset
Energy Stocks

How to Build a Bulletproof Monthly Passive Income Portfolio With $25,000 and WCP Stock

If you want monthly passive income, consider this stock. Here’s how to achieve all that income in the first place.…

Read more »

Clean energy
Energy Stocks

Why Cameco Stock Rose 2.95% on Tuesday

Cameco stock has stalled recently, but things might be turning around again as increased nuclear spending in the U.S. takes…

Read more »

grow dividends
Energy Stocks

If I Were You, I’d Buy These 2 Stocks Before They Skyrocket

Two stocks are poised to skyrocket in the impending comeback and bull run of the energy sector in 2024.

Read more »

oil tank at night
Energy Stocks

Why Northland Power Is a Top Energy Stock That’s Not Getting the Love it Deserves

Many investors may be wondering why Northland Power (TSX:NPI) is down so much, and here are a few reasons to…

Read more »

oil tank at night
Energy Stocks

2 Energy Stocks to Buy Hand Over Fist in March

These two rallying Canadian energy stocks can continue their bullish runs in 2024 and beyond.

Read more »

Solar panels and windmills
Energy Stocks

Dividend Investors: Top Canadian Energy Stocks for March 2024

Investors could consider top energy stocks like Enbridge for reliable dividend income.

Read more »