ConocoPhillips to Acquire Marathon Oil in $17.1 Billion Deal
In a surprising move, ConocoPhillips has announced plans to acquire Marathon Oil in an all-stock deal, valued at $17.1 billion. ConocoPhillips (COP) is set to boost its asset portfolio, though Tortoise Portfolio Manager Rob Thummel has noted that Marathon Oil’s assets are “good, not great”.
Free Cash Flow Yield a Key Benefit
Despite his lukewarm assessment of the assets, Thummel commends Marathon Oil’s management team for their capital discipline. The resulting high free cash flow yield will be a significant benefit for ConocoPhillips. To get further expert insights and latest market developments, watch the full episode of Morning Brief here.
Transcript Highlights
Thummel expressed surprise at the acquisition, noting that few likely expected Marathon Oil to be taken over by ConocoPhillips. The acquisition, however, makes sense given Marathon Oil’s high free cash flow yield, one of the highest in the oil and gas space. The merger will add a significant amount of free cash flow that ConocoPhillips can further deploy.
ConocoPhillips Boosts Asset Portfolio
ConocoPhillips will gain some good assets across the Bakken in North Dakota, and the Permian and Eagle Ford in Texas. The additional cash allows ConocoPhillips to further its capital allocation, whether to shareholders or future acquisitions.
Possible Regulatory Scrutiny
The deal will likely face regulatory scrutiny, though Thummel anticipates that it may receive less attention than other transactions. The process will follow the usual rigour at the Federal Trade Commission. Regardless, the consensus is that ConocoPhillips will benefit from the acquisition, thanks to Marathon Oil’s disciplined approach and high free cash flow yield.
Original Story at finance.yahoo.com