APA Corp
For the period ended Dec 31, 2024. Filed Feb 28, 2025.
View on SEC.govAbout this filing
A company's yearly report to the SEC, with audited financial statements. It is the fullest account a company gives of its business, its finances and the risks it sees.
FY2024 · Filed Feb 28, 2025
APA$44.55-0.2%Stored close · as of Nov 9, 2026
What changed in Risk Factors?
Read the current filingPrevious report: 10-K
Period ended 2023-12-31; filed 2024-02-22.
0001784031-24-000003
Item 1A. RISK FACTORSCurrent report: 10-K
Period ended 2024-12-31; filed 2025-02-28.
0002040266-25-000007
Item 1A. RISK FACTORSThe baseline is this issuer’s latest earlier reporting period of the same form that was filed before the current report. A previous 10-Q is a different quarter, not a year-over-year comparison. Amendments are excluded.
Compared 135 previous paragraphs and 114 current paragraphs.
91 unchanged; 21 reworded; 2 added; 22 removed; 1 previous and 0 current paragraphs rearranged.
Tables are not compared: 1 previous and 1 current tables excluded. Dates, whitespace, punctuation and numbering changes are ignored; changes to financial figures remain significant.
A changed paragraph is not evidence that risk increased or decreased. An unchanged paragraph does not establish that risk stayed the same.
Added paragraphs (2)
Current report
The Company’s ability to realize its deferred tax assets may be limited if it experiences changes in expected future cash flows related to reserves or ARO.
Current report
As described in Note 10—Income Taxes in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements set forth in Part IV, Item 15 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the Company assesses the realizability of its deferred tax assets based on its ability to generate sufficient future taxable income. Future changes in expected cash outflows for ARO or inflows from reserves could impact the Company’s ability to realize its deferred tax assets in future periods.
Removed paragraphs (22)
Previous report
The guidance upon which the Company’s consumptive water use reporting was modified and could be revised in the future, resulting in the over or underreporting of the Company’s consumptive water use.
Previous report
In 2022, the Company modified the way it reports its water data compared to previous years and restated its data from prior years. Previously, the Company included produced water usage in its consumptive use calculations, which led to an over-reporting of consumptive water use. Based on re-evaluation of water reporting definitions and guidance, the Company determined that produced water (non-potable water released from deep underground formations and brought to the surface during oil and gas exploration and production) should not be classified as consumed in the same sense as fresh water. The Company’s revised reporting now reflects only fresh water and non-potable water from surface water or shallow groundwater that are consumed in oil and gas operations.
Previous report
RISKS RELATED TO THE PROPOSED ACQUISITION OF CALLON PETROLEUM COMPANY (CALLON)
Previous report
The merger is subject to a number of conditions to the obligations of both the Company and Callon to complete the merger, including approval of the Company and Callon stockholders and regulatory clearance, which may impose unacceptable conditions or could delay completion of the merger or result in termination of the Merger Agreement.
Previous report
On January 3, 2024, the Company entered into a definitive agreement (the Merger Agreement) to acquire Callon. The respective obligations of each of the Company and Callon to consummate the merger are subject to the satisfaction at or prior to the closing of numerous conditions, including the approval of both the Company’s and Callon’s stockholders, the absence of any law or order prohibiting the consummation of the merger, and the expiration or termination of the waiting period (and any extension of such period) under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended. Many of the conditions to completion of the merger are not within either the Company’s or Callon’s control, and the Company cannot predict when, or if, these conditions will be satisfied. Furthermore, the requirement for obtaining the required regulatory clearances could delay the completion of the merger for a significant period of time or prevent it from occurring. Regulators may seek to enjoin the completion of the merger, seek divestiture of substantial assets of the parties, or require the parties to license, or hold separate, assets or terminate existing relationships and contractual rights.
Previous report
Failure to complete the merger could negatively impact the Company’s stock price and have a material adverse effect on the Company’s results of operations, cash flows, and financial position.
Previous report
If the merger is not completed for any reason, including as a result of failure to obtain all requisite regulatory and stockholder approvals, the ongoing business of the Company may be materially adversely affected and, without realizing any of the benefits of having completed the merger, the Company would be subject to a number of risks, including the following:
Previous report
•the Company may experience negative reactions from the financial markets, including negative stock price impacts;
Previous report
•the Company may experience negative reactions from commercial and business partners;
Previous report
•the Company will still be required to pay significant costs relating to the merger, such as legal, accounting, financial advisor, and printing fees; and
Previous report
•the Company may be required to pay up to a $170 million termination fee to Callon or reimburse up to $48 million of Callon’s expenses, as required by the Merger Agreement.
Previous report
The pending merger may cause a loss of key employees, disruptions in business relationships, distraction of management, and limitations on the Company’s business activities.
Previous report
Whether or not the merger is completed, the announcement and pendency of the merger could cause disruptions to the Company’s business, including:
Previous report
•uncertainties associated with the merger may cause a loss of management personnel and other key employees of the Company, which could adversely affect the future business and operations of the Company following the merger;
Previous report
•the business relationships of the Company may be subject to disruption due to uncertainty associated with the merger, which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s results of operations, cash flows, and financial position;
Previous report
•matters relating to the merger (including integration planning) require substantial commitments of time and resources by the Company’s management, which may result in the distraction of the Company’s management from ongoing business operations and pursuing other opportunities that could be beneficial to the Company; and
Previous report
•the Merger Agreement places certain restrictions on the conduct of the Company, which may delay or prevent the Company from undertaking business opportunities that, absent the Merger Agreement, may have been pursued.
Previous report
The Company may fail to realize the anticipated benefits of the merger and fail to successfully integrate the businesses and operations of the companies in the expected time frame.
Previous report
The success of the merger will depend on, among other things, the combined company’s ability to integrate the Company’s and Callon’s businesses in a manner that realizes anticipated synergies and benefits and meets or exceeds the forecasted stand-alone cost savings anticipated by the combined company. If the combined company is not able to successfully achieve these synergies, or the cost to achieve these synergies is greater than expected, then the anticipated benefits of the merger may not be realized fully or at all or may take longer to realize than expected. If the transaction closes, it is possible that the integration process could result in the loss of key Company employees or key Callon employees, the loss of customers, providers, vendors, or business partners, the disruption of either company’s or both companies’ ongoing businesses, inconsistencies in standards, controls, procedures, and policies, potential unknown liabilities and unforeseen expenses, delays, or regulatory conditions associated with and following completion of the merger, or higher than expected integration costs and an overall post-completion integration process that takes longer than originally anticipated.
Previous report
In addition, at times the attention of certain members of the Company’s management and resources may be focused on completion of the merger and planning the integration of the businesses of the two companies and diverted from day-to-day business operations or other opportunities that may have been beneficial to the Company, which may disrupt the Company’s ongoing business and the business of the combined company.
Previous report
Litigation relating to the merger could result in substantial costs to the Company.
Previous report
There can be no assurance that any of the defendants will be successful in the outcome of any pending or any potential future lawsuits. The defense or settlement of any lawsuit or claim that remains unresolved at the time the merger is completed may adversely affect the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
Reworded paragraphs (21)
Previous wording
The Company’s revenues, operating results, future rate of growth, and carrying value of its oil and gas properties depend highly upon the prices it receives for its sales of crude oil, natural gas, and NGL products. Historically, the markets for these commodities have been volatile and are likely to continue to be volatile in the future. For example, the NYMEX daily settlement price for the prompt month oil contract in 2023 ranged from a high of $93.67 per barrel to a low of $66.61 per barrel, and the NYMEX daily settlement price for the prompt month natural gas contract in 2023 ranged from a high of $3.78 per MMBtu to a low of $1.74 per MMBtu. The market prices for crude oil, natural gas, and NGLs depend on factors beyond the Company’s control. These factors include demand, which fluctuates with changes in market and economic conditions, and other factors, including:
Current wording
The Company’s revenues, operating results, future rate of growth, and carrying value of its oil and gas properties depend highly upon the prices it receives for its sales of crude oil, natural gas, and NGL products. Historically, the markets for these commodities have been volatile and are likely to continue to be volatile in the future. For example, the NYMEX daily settlement price for the prompt month oil contract in 2024 ranged from a high of $87.69 per barrel to a low of $66.73 per barrel, and the NYMEX daily settlement price for the prompt month natural gas contract in 2024 ranged from a high of $13.20 per MMBtu to a low of $1.21 per MMBtu. The market prices for crude oil, natural gas, and NGLs depend on factors beyond the Company’s control. These factors include demand, which fluctuates with changes in market and economic conditions, and other factors, including:
Previous wording
•the overall economic environment, including rates of growth and increasing inflationary pressure.
Current wording
•the overall economic environment, including rates of growth, trade tensions, and increasing inflationary pressure.
Previous wording
A portion of the Company’s crude oil, natural gas, and NGL production in any region may be interrupted, limited, or shut in from time to time for numerous reasons, including as a result of weather conditions, accidents, loss of pipeline or gathering system access, field labor issues or strikes, cyberattacks or terrorist events, or capital constraints that limit the ability of third parties to construct gathering systems, processing facilities, or interstate pipelines to transport the Company’s production. Additionally, the Company may voluntarily curtail production in response to market conditions. If a substantial amount of the Company’s production is interrupted or curtailed at the same time, it could temporarily adversely affect the Company’s cash flows. Further, if the Company is unable to procure and resell third-party volumes at or above a net price that covers the cost of transportation, the Company’s cash flows could be adversely affected.
Current wording
A portion of the Company’s crude oil, natural gas, and NGL production in any region may be, and previously have been, interrupted, limited, or shut in from time to time for numerous reasons, including as a result of weather conditions, accidents, loss of pipeline or gathering system access, field labor issues or strikes, cyberattacks or terrorist events, or capital constraints that limit the ability of third parties to construct gathering systems, processing facilities, or interstate pipelines to transport the Company’s production. Additionally, the Company has previously and may in the future voluntarily curtail production in response to market conditions, such as weak or negative prices. If a substantial amount of the Company’s production is interrupted or curtailed at the same time, it could temporarily adversely affect the Company’s cash flows. Further, if the Company is unable to procure and resell third-party volumes at or above a net price that covers the cost of transportation, the Company’s cash flows could be adversely affected.
Previous wording
The Company’s operations are subject to hazards and risks inherent in the drilling, production, and transportation of crude oil, natural gas, and NGLs, including well blowouts, explosions, fires, cratering, pipeline or other facility ruptures and spills, adverse weather conditions, including those impacting the Company’s offshore operating areas, surface spillage and ground water contamination, and failure or loss of equipment. These events, including ineffective containment of such events, could result in property damages, personal injury, environmental pollution, and other damages for which the Company could be liable. If a significant amount of the Company’s production is interrupted, containment efforts prove to be ineffective, or litigation arises as the result of a catastrophic occurrence, the Company’s cash flows and, in turn, its results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.
Current wording
The Company’s operations are subject to hazards and risks inherent in the drilling, production, and transportation of crude oil, natural gas, and NGLs, including well blowouts, explosions, fires, cratering, pipeline or other facility ruptures and spills, adverse weather conditions, including those impacting the Company’s offshore operating areas, surface spillage and ground water contamination, and failure or loss of equipment. These events, including ineffective containment of such events, have previously and could in the future result in property damages, personal injury, environmental pollution, and other damages for which the Company could be liable. If a significant amount of the Company’s production is interrupted, containment efforts prove to be ineffective, or litigation arises as the result of a catastrophic occurrence, the Company’s cash flows and, in turn, its results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.
Previous wording
Demand for oil and natural gas are, to a significant degree, dependent on weather and climate, which impact the price the Company receives for the commodities it produces. In addition, the Company’s exploration, development, and production activities and equipment have been and can be adversely affected by severe weather, such as freezing temperatures, hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico, or major storms in the North Sea, each of which have previously caused and may cause a loss of production from temporary cessation of activity or lost or damaged equipment. The Company’s planning for normal climatic variation, insurance programs, and emergency recovery plans may inadequately mitigate the effects of such weather conditions, and not all such effects can be predicted, eliminated, or insured against.
Current wording
Demand for oil and natural gas are, to a significant degree, dependent on weather and climate, which impact the price the Company receives for the commodities it produces. In addition, the Company’s exploration, development, and production activities and equipment have been and can be adversely affected by severe weather, such as freezing temperatures, hurricanes in the Gulf of America, or major storms in the North Sea, each of which have previously caused and may cause a loss of production from temporary cessation of activity or lost or damaged equipment. The Company’s planning for normal climatic variation, insurance programs, and emergency recovery plans may inadequately mitigate the effects of such weather conditions, and not all such effects can be predicted, eliminated, or insured against.
Previous wording
Exploration for and production of crude oil, natural gas, and NGLs involves hazards, which can result in damage to or destruction of wells or production facilities, injury to persons, loss of life, or damage to property or the environment. The Company’s international operations are also subject to political and economic risks. The insurance coverage that the Company maintains against certain losses or liabilities arising from its operations may be inadequate to cover any such resulting liability; moreover, insurance is not available to the Company against all operational risks. While certain of the Company’s insurance policies may provide coverage for such events, if the Company were to incur a significant liability for which it was not fully insured, then it could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations, and cash flows. In addition, if such an event were to occur, then the proceeds of any such insurance may not be paid in a timely manner or may not be sufficient to cover all of the Company’s losses.
Current wording
Exploration for and production of crude oil, natural gas, and NGLs involves hazards, which can result in damage to or destruction of wells or production facilities, injury to persons, loss of life, or damage to property or the environment. The Company’s international operations are also subject to political and economic risks. The insurance coverage that the Company maintains against certain losses or liabilities arising from its operations may be inadequate to cover any such resulting liability; moreover, insurance is not available to the Company against all operational risks. While certain insurance policies of the Company may provide coverage for such events, if the Company were to incur a significant liability for which it was not fully insured, then it could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations, and cash flows. In addition, if such an event were to occur, then the proceeds of any such insurance may not be paid in a timely manner or may not be sufficient to cover all of the Company’s losses.
Previous wording
There are numerous and evolving risks to the Company’s data, technology, and information systems from cyber threat actors, including criminal hackers, state-sponsored intrusions, industrial espionage, and employee malfeasance. The Company’s operations are dependent on digital technologies, including to estimate reserves, process financial and operating data, analyze drilling information, and communicate with personnel. Unauthorized access to the Company’s data, technology, and information systems could lead to operational disruption, communication interruption, disruption in access to financial reporting systems, loss, misuse, or corruption of data and proprietary information. In addition, unauthorized access to third party information systems could interrupt the oil and gas distribution and refining systems in the U.S. and abroad, which are necessary to transport and market the Company’s production. Cyberattacks directed at oil and gas distribution systems have previously and could again in the future damage critical distribution and storage assets or the environment. The potential impacts of a cyber incident could be made worse by a delay or failure to detect the occurrence, continuance, or extent of such an incident.
Current wording
There are numerous and evolving risks to the Company’s data, technology, and information systems from cyber threat actors, including criminal hackers, state-sponsored intrusions, industrial espionage, and employee malfeasance. The Company’s operations are dependent on digital technologies, including to estimate reserves, process financial and operating data, analyze drilling information, and communicate with personnel. Unauthorized access to the Company’s data, technology, and information systems could lead to operational disruption, communication interruption, disruption in access to financial reporting systems, and loss, misuse, or corruption of data and proprietary information. In addition, unauthorized access to third party information systems could interrupt the oil and gas distribution and refining systems in the U.S. and abroad, which are necessary to transport and market the Company’s production. Cyberattacks directed at oil and gas distribution systems have previously and could again in the future damage critical distribution and storage assets or the environment. The potential impacts of a cyber incident could be made worse by a delay or failure to detect the occurrence, continuance, or extent of such an incident.
Previous wording
The Company is involved in several large development projects, and the completion of these projects may be delayed beyond the Company’s anticipated completion dates. These projects may be delayed by project approvals from joint venture partners, timely issuances of permits and licenses by governmental agencies, weather conditions, manufacturing and delivery schedules of critical equipment, and other unforeseen events. Delays and differences between estimated and actual timing of critical events and development costs (including for equipment and personnel) may adversely affect the Company’s large development projects (including forcing the Company to abandon such projects) and its ability to participate in large-scale development projects in the future.
Current wording
The Company is involved in several large development projects, and the completion of these projects may be delayed beyond the Company’s anticipated completion dates. These projects may be delayed by project approvals from joint venture partners, timely issuances of permits and licenses by governmental agencies, weather conditions, manufacturing and delivery schedules of critical vessels and equipment, and other unforeseen events. Delays and differences between estimated and actual timing of critical events and development costs (including for equipment and personnel) may adversely affect the Company’s large development projects (including forcing the Company to abandon such projects) and its ability to participate in large-scale development projects in the future.
Previous wording
There are numerous uncertainties inherent in the process of estimating crude oil, natural gas, and NGL reserves and their value, which is highly subjective and relies on the quality of available data and the accuracy of engineering and geological interpretation. The Company’s reserves estimates are based on 12-month average prices, except where contractual arrangements exist, causing reserves quantities to change when actual prices increase or decrease. The estimates of the Company’s proved reserves and estimated future net revenues also depend on a number of factors and assumptions that may vary considerably from actual results, including historical production from the area compared with production from other areas, the results of drilling, testing, and production for a reservoir over time, the use of volumetric analysis versus production history, the effects of changes in laws (including taxes), future operating, workover, and remediation costs, and capital expenditures. Accordingly, reserves estimates may be subject to adjustment, and actual production, revenue, and expenditures with respect to the Company’s reserves likely will vary, possibly materially, from estimates. In addition, realization or recognition of proved undeveloped reserves will depend on the Company’s development schedule and plans. A change in future development plans for proved undeveloped reserves could cause the discontinuation of the classification of these reserves as proved.
Current wording
There are numerous uncertainties inherent in the process of estimating crude oil, natural gas, and NGL reserves and their value, which is highly subjective and relies on the quality of available data and the accuracy of engineering and geological interpretation. The Company’s reserves estimates are based on 12-month average prices, except where contractual arrangements exist, causing reserves quantities to change when actual prices increase or decrease. The estimates of the Company’s proved reserves and estimated future net revenues also depend on a number of factors and assumptions that may vary considerably from actual results, including historical production from the area compared with production from other areas, the results of drilling, testing, and production for a reservoir over time, the use of volumetric analysis versus production history, the effects of changes in laws (including emissions regulations, infrastructure modernization requirements, and taxes), future operating, workover, and remediation costs, and capital expenditures. For example, during 2024, the Company recorded $796 million of impairments for certain of its North Sea proved properties as a result of several new regulatory guidelines and obligations in the U.K. Accordingly, reserves estimates may be subject to adjustment, and actual production, revenue, and expenditures with respect to the Company’s reserves likely will vary, possibly materially, from estimates. In addition, realization or recognition of proved undeveloped reserves will depend on the Company’s development schedule and plans. A change in future development plans for proved undeveloped reserves could cause the discontinuation of the classification of these reserves as proved.
Previous wording
The agreements relating to the Company’s divestment of domestic and international assets generally contain provisions pursuant to which liabilities related to past and future operations (one of the most significant of which is the decommissioning of wells and facilities) are allocated between the parties by means of liability assumptions, indemnities, escrows, trusts, bonds, letters of credit, and similar arrangements. One or more of the counterparties in these transactions could fail to perform its obligations under these agreements as a result of financial distress or bankruptcy, which may force the Company to use available cash to cover the costs of such obligations, pending final resolution of any claims the Company may have against the counterparty, which could adversely impact the Company’s cash flows, operations, or financial condition.
Current wording
The agreements relating to the Company’s divestment of domestic and international assets generally contain provisions pursuant to which liabilities related to past and future operations (one of the most significant of which is the decommissioning of wells and facilities) are allocated between the parties by means of liability assumptions, indemnities, escrows, trusts, surety bonds, letters of credit, and similar arrangements. One or more of the counterparties in these transactions could fail to perform its obligations under these agreements as a result of financial distress or bankruptcy, which may force the Company to use available cash to cover the costs of such obligations, pending final resolution of any claims the Company may have against the counterparty, which could adversely impact the Company’s cash flows, operations, or financial condition.
Previous wording
For additional information regarding Apache’s prior Gulf of Mexico properties and the bankruptcy of the purchaser of those properties, see the information set forth under “Potential Decommissioning Obligations on Sold Properties” in Note 11—Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements set forth in Item 15 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Current wording
For additional information regarding Apache’s prior Gulf of America properties and the bankruptcy of the purchaser of those properties, see the information set forth under “Potential Decommissioning Obligations on Sold Properties” in Note 11—Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements set forth in Part IV, Item 15 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Previous wording
The Company receives debt ratings from the major credit rating agencies in the U.S. Factors that may impact the Company’s credit ratings include its debt levels, planned asset purchases or sales, and near-term and long-term production growth opportunities. Liquidity, asset quality, cost structure, product mix, commodity pricing levels, and other factors are also considered by the rating agencies. A ratings downgrade could adversely impact the Company’s ability to access debt markets in the future and increase the cost of future debt. During 2023, Moody’s upgraded the Company’s rating to Baa3/Stable, and Standard and Poor’s affirmed the Company’s rating as BB+/Positive. Past ratings downgrades have required, and any future downgrades may require, the Company to post letters of credit or other forms of collateral for certain obligations.
Current wording
The Company receives debt ratings from the major credit rating agencies in the U.S. Factors that may impact the Company’s credit ratings include its debt levels, planned asset purchases or sales, and near-term and long-term production growth opportunities. Liquidity, asset quality, cost structure, product mix, commodity pricing levels, and other factors are also considered by the rating agencies. A ratings downgrade could adversely impact the Company’s ability to access debt markets in the future and increase the cost of future debt. During 2024, Standard and Poor’s upgraded the Company’s rating to BBB-/Stable, Moody’s affirmed the Company’s rating at Baa3/Stable, and Fitch affirmed the Company’s rating at BBB-/Stable. Past ratings downgrades have required, and any future downgrades may require, the Company to post letters of credit or other forms of collateral for certain obligations.
Previous wording
The Company’s ability to declare and pay dividends is subject to limitations.
Current wording
The Company’s ability to declare and pay dividends, and to repurchase common stock, is subject to limitations.
Previous wording
The payment of future dividends on the Company’s capital stock is subject to the discretion of the Board of Directors, taking into consideration, among other factors, the Company’s operating results, available cash, overall financial condition, credit risks, capital requirements, restrictions under the Company’s indentures and other financing agreements, and restrictions under Delaware law, as well as general business and market conditions. The Board of Directors is not required to declare dividends on APA’s common stock and may decide not to declare dividends.
Current wording
The payment of future dividends on, and any repurchases of, the Company’s common stock are each subject to the discretion of the Board of Directors, taking into consideration, among other factors, the Company’s operating results, available cash, overall financial condition, credit risks, capital requirements, restrictions under the Company’s indentures and other financing agreements, restrictions under Delaware law, general business and market conditions, and other factors the Board of Directors deems relevant. The Board of Directors is not required to declare dividends on or repurchase APA’s common stock and may decide not to declare dividends or repurchase common stock at the current rate or at all. Any downward revision in the amount of dividends the Company pays to shareholders, or reduction in the pace of share repurchases, could have an adverse effect on the market price of the Company’s common stock.
Previous wording
As described in Note 10—Income Taxes of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the Company has substantial net operating loss carryforwards (NOLs) and other tax attributes available to potentially offset future taxable income. If the Company were to experience an “ownership change” under Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, which is generally defined as a greater than 50 percentage point change, by value, in the Company’s equity ownership by five-percent shareholders over a three-year period, the Company’s ability to utilize its pre-change NOLs and other pre-change tax attributes to potentially offset its post-change income or taxes may be limited. Such a limitation could materially adversely affect the Company’s operating results or cash flows.
Current wording
As described in Note 10—Income Taxes in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements set forth in Part IV, Item 15 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the Company has substantial net operating loss carryforwards (NOLs) and other tax attributes available to potentially offset future taxable income. If the Company were to experience an “ownership change” under Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, which is generally defined as a greater than 50 percentage point change, by value, in the Company’s equity ownership by five-percent shareholders over a three-year period, the Company’s ability to utilize its pre-change NOLs and other pre-change tax attributes to potentially offset its post-change income or taxes may be limited. Such a limitation could materially adversely affect the Company’s operating results or cash flows.
Previous wording
As a holding company, APA has no business operations of its own, and its only significant assets are the outstanding equity interests of its subsidiaries, including Apache. As a result, APA relies on cash flows from its subsidiaries to pay dividends on its common stock and to meet its financial obligations, including to service any amounts outstanding under its credit agreement or commercial paper program, and any additional financial obligations that the Company may incur from time to time in the future. If the subsidiaries are limited in their ability to distribute cash to the Company, such as through legal or contractual limitations, or if the subsidiaries’ earnings or other available assets are not sufficient to pay distributions or make loans to the Company in the amounts or at the times necessary to meet the Company’s financial obligations, then the Company’s financial condition, cash flows, and reputation may be materially adversely affected.
Current wording
As a holding company, APA has no business operations of its own, and its primary assets are its ownership interests in its subsidiaries, including Apache. As a result, APA relies on cash flows from its subsidiaries to pay dividends on, and make repurchases of, its common stock and to meet its financial obligations, including to service any amounts outstanding under its notes, debentures, credit agreements or commercial paper program, and any additional financial obligations that the Company may incur from time to time in the future. If the subsidiaries are limited in their ability to distribute cash to the Company, such as through legal or contractual limitations, or if the subsidiaries’ earnings or other available assets are not sufficient to pay distributions or make loans to the Company in the amounts or at the times necessary to meet the Company’s financial obligations, then the Company’s financial condition, cash flows, and reputation may be materially adversely affected.
Previous wording
The Company’s U.S. operations have been, and at times in the future may be, affected by political developments and by federal, state, and local laws and regulations, including restrictions on production, changes in taxes and other amounts payable to governments, price or gathering rate controls, environmental protection laws and regulations, and security for plugging, abandonment, and decommissioning obligations, including in the Gulf of Mexico.
Current wording
The Company’s U.S. operations have been, and at times in the future may be, affected by political developments and by federal, state, and local laws and regulations, including restrictions on production, changes in taxes and other amounts payable to governments, price or gathering rate controls, environmental protection laws and regulations, and security for plugging, abandonment, and decommissioning obligations, including in the Gulf of America.
Previous wording
Federal, state, and foreign income tax laws affecting oil and gas exploration, development, and extraction may be modified by administrative, legislative, or judicial interpretation at any time. For example, the U.K. enacted the Energy Profits Levy, which assesses an additional levy of 35 percent, effective for the period of January 1, 2023, through March 31, 2028, on the profits of oil and gas companies operating in the U.K. and the U.K. Continental Shelf. Additionally, in the U.S., the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 introduced a new 15 percent corporate alternative minimum tax (Corporate AMT) for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2022, on applicable corporations with an average annual adjusted financial statement income (AFSI) that exceeds $1.0 billion for any three consecutive tax years preceding the tax year at issue. Effective January 1, 2024, the Company is subject to the Corporate AMT. Accordingly, any resulting Corporate AMT liability could adversely affect the Company’s future financial results, including earnings and cash flows.
Current wording
Federal, state, and foreign income tax laws affecting oil and gas exploration, development, and extraction may be modified by administrative, legislative, or judicial interpretation at any time. For example, the U.K. enacted the Energy Profits Levy (EPL), which assesses an additional levy of 35 percent, effective for the period of January 1, 2023, through March 31, 2028, on the profits of oil and gas companies operating in the U.K. and the U.K. Continental Shelf. Further changes to the EPL regime were announced in 2024, with enactment expected in 2025. Such changes, effective for the period of November 1, 2024, through March 31, 2030, would increase the levy to 38 percent, remove certain allowances, and extend the EPL period. Additionally, in the U.S., the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 introduced a new 15 percent corporate alternative minimum tax (Corporate AMT) for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2022, on applicable corporations with an average annual adjusted financial statement income (AFSI) that exceeds $1.0 billion for any three consecutive tax years preceding the tax year at issue. Effective January 1, 2024, the Company is subject to the Corporate AMT. Accordingly, any resulting Corporate AMT liability could adversely affect the Company’s future financial results, including earnings and cash flows.
Previous wording
Certain countries where the Company operates, including the U.K., either tax or assess some form of greenhouse gas (GHG) related fees on the Company’s operations. Exposure has not been material to date, although a change in existing regulations could adversely affect the Company’s cash flows and results of operations. Additionally, there has been discussion in other countries where the Company operates, including the U.S., regarding changes in legislation or heightened regulation of GHGs, including to monitor and limit existing emissions of GHGs and to restrict or eliminate future emissions. Moreover, in January 2024, the EPA announced a proposed rule to assess a charge on certain methane emissions in the oil and gas industry. The Company is currently evaluating the proposed rule and its applicability to the Company.
Current wording
Certain countries where the Company operates, including the U.K., either tax or assess some form of greenhouse gas (GHG) related fees on the Company’s operations. Exposure has not been material to date, although a change in existing regulations could adversely affect the Company’s cash flows and results of operations. Additionally, there has been discussion in other countries where the Company operates, including the U.S., regarding changes in legislation or heightened regulation of GHGs, including to monitor and limit existing emissions of GHGs and to restrict or eliminate future emissions. Moreover, in January 2024, the EPA announced a proposed rule to assess a charge on certain methane emissions in the oil and gas industry. The Company is currently evaluating the proposed rule and its applicability to the Company and is monitoring ongoing litigation related to the proposed rule.
Previous wording
The Company’s operations outside the U.S. are based primarily in Egypt and the U.K., with significant exploration and appraisal activities offshore Suriname. On a barrel equivalent basis, approximately 46 percent of the Company’s 2023 production was outside the U.S., and approximately 30 percent of the Company’s estimated proved oil and gas reserves as of December 31, 2023, were located outside the U.S. As a result, a significant portion of the Company’s production and resources are subject to the increased political and economic risks and other factors associated with international operations, including, but not limited to strikes and civil unrest; war, acts of terrorism, expropriation and resource nationalization, forced renegotiation or modification of existing contracts, including through prospective or retroactive changes in the laws and regulations applicable to such contracts; import and export regulations; taxation policies and investment restrictions; price controls;
Current wording
The Company’s operations outside the U.S. are based primarily in Egypt and the U.K., with significant exploration and appraisal activities offshore Suriname. On a barrel equivalent basis, approximately 38 percent of the Company’s 2024 production was outside the U.S., and approximately 28 percent of the Company’s estimated proved oil and gas reserves as of December 31, 2024, were located outside the U.S. As a result, a significant portion of the Company’s production and resources are subject to the increased political and economic risks and other factors associated with international operations, including, but not limited to strikes and civil unrest; war, acts of terrorism, expropriation and resource nationalization, forced renegotiation or modification of existing contracts, including through prospective or retroactive changes in the laws and regulations applicable to such contracts; import and export regulations; taxation policies and investment restrictions; price controls; exchange controls, currency fluctuations, devaluations, or other activities that limit or disrupt markets and restrict payments or the movement of funds; constrained oil or natural gas markets dependent on demand in a single or limited geographical area; laws and policies of the U.S. affecting foreign trade, including trade sanctions and tariffs; the possibility of being subject to exclusive jurisdiction of foreign courts in connection with legal disputes relating to licenses to operate and concession rights in countries where the Company currently operates; the possible inability to subject foreign persons, especially foreign oil ministries and national oil companies, to the jurisdiction of courts in the U.S.; and difficulties in enforcing the Company’s rights against a governmental agency because of the doctrine of sovereign immunity and foreign sovereignty over international operations.
Previous wording
Further deterioration in the political, economic, and social conditions or other relevant policies of the Egyptian government, such as changes in laws or regulations, export restrictions, expropriation of the Company’s assets or resource nationalization, and/or forced renegotiation or modification of the Company’s existing contracts with Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation (EGPC), or threats or acts of terrorism could materially and adversely affect the Company’s business and operations. Additionally, deteriorating economic conditions in Egypt have led to a shortage of foreign currency, including U.S. dollars, resulting in a decline in the timeliness of payments from EGPC. A continuation or worsening of the currency shortage in Egypt or further deterioration of economic conditions there could lead to additional payment delays, deferrals of payment, or non-payment in the future. The Company’s operations in Egypt, excluding the impacts of a one-third noncontrolling interest, contributed 27 percent of the Company’s 2023 production and accounted for 15 percent of the Company’s year-end estimated proved reserves and 29 percent of the Company’s estimated discounted future net cash flows. If conditions continue to deteriorate in Egypt, then it could materially and adversely affect the Company’s business, financial condition, and results of operations.
Current wording
Further deterioration in the political, economic, and social conditions or other relevant policies of the Egyptian government, such as changes in laws or regulations, export restrictions, expropriation of the Company’s assets or resource nationalization, and/or forced renegotiation or modification of the Company’s existing contracts with Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation (EGPC), or threats or acts of terrorism could materially and adversely affect the Company’s business and operations. Additionally, deteriorating economic conditions in Egypt have led to a shortage of foreign currency, including U.S. dollars, resulting in a decline in the timeliness of payments from EGPC. As described under “Revenue Recognition—Payment Terms and Contract Balances” in Note 1—Summary of Significant Accounting Policies in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements set forth in Part IV, Item 15 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the Company’s receivable balance from EGPC in the past year has gradually increased as payments for the Company’s Egyptian oil and gas sales have been delayed for periods longer than historically experienced. A continuation or worsening of the currency shortage in Egypt or further deterioration of economic conditions there could lead to additional payment delays, deferrals of payment, or non-payment in the future. The Company’s operations in Egypt, excluding the impacts of a one-third noncontrolling interest, contributed 22 percent of the Company’s 2024 production and accounted for 12 percent of the Company’s year-end estimated proved reserves and 21 percent of the Company’s estimated discounted future net cash flows. If conditions continue to deteriorate in Egypt, then it could materially and adversely affect the Company’s business, financial condition, and results of operations.
Rearranged previous paragraphs (1)
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
exchange controls, currency fluctuations, devaluations, or other activities that limit or disrupt markets and restrict payments or the movement of funds; constrained oil or natural gas markets dependent on demand in a single or limited geographical area; laws and policies of the U.S. affecting foreign trade, including trade sanctions; the possibility of being subject to exclusive jurisdiction of foreign courts in connection with legal disputes relating to licenses to operate and concession rights in countries where the Company currently operates; the possible inability to subject foreign persons, especially foreign oil ministries and national oil companies, to the jurisdiction of courts in the U.S.; and difficulties in enforcing the Company’s rights against a governmental agency because of the doctrine of sovereign immunity and foreign sovereignty over international operations.