Key Points: – Zeo to acquire Heliogen in an all-stock deal, expanding its clean energy reach. – Adds long-duration storage, targeting sectors like data centers and AI. – Boosts efficiency and financing for large-scale energy projects.
In a move that underscores the accelerating convergence of solar energy and long-duration storage solutions, Zeo Energy Corp. (Nasdaq: ZEO) has announced its acquisition of Heliogen, Inc. (OTCQX: HLGN) in an all-stock transaction valued at approximately $10 million. The deal aims to create a unified clean energy platform that serves residential, commercial, and utility-scale markets across the U.S. and beyond.
Zeo Energy, a Florida-based provider of residential solar and energy efficiency services, will integrate Heliogen’s advanced storage technologies to expand into commercial and industrial-scale clean energy applications. These include mission-critical sectors such as data centers, AI infrastructure, and cloud computing facilities—markets increasingly in need of reliable, scalable, and cost-effective energy solutions.
The acquisition represents the outcome of Heliogen’s comprehensive strategic alternatives review and is expected to close in the third quarter of 2025, pending regulatory and shareholder approvals. With the deal’s completion, Heliogen’s shareholders will receive Zeo Class A common stock and the combined entity will retain key technical personnel to drive innovation across new market segments.
This transaction marks a strategic pivot for Zeo, positioning it as a more vertically integrated energy provider with diversified revenue streams and operational reach. The company expects to streamline corporate overhead, broaden its market appeal, and strengthen its balance sheet with the addition of Heliogen’s intellectual property and cash reserves.
Zeo also plans to leverage its affiliated financing arm—responsible for over $44 million in clean energy tax equity financing to date—to support future utility-scale and long-duration projects. This added financing capacity may be particularly beneficial as demand surges for low-carbon infrastructure driven by policy incentives, energy cost volatility, and technological adoption.
For investors, the combined company represents a multi-faceted play on the growing shift toward decarbonization and distributed energy. While Zeo brings an established presence in high-growth residential markets, Heliogen offers utility-grade thermal storage and dispatchable energy systems that address one of the most critical gaps in the clean energy transition: 24/7 reliability.
Both boards have unanimously approved the transaction, and early support from a significant portion of Heliogen’s shareholders has added momentum to the closing process. Once finalized, the deal is expected to create a scalable clean energy company well-positioned to meet rising demand across a broad spectrum of energy users.
As the energy landscape continues to evolve, the Zeo–Heliogen merger reflects a broader industry trend toward integrated platforms capable of delivering end-to-end clean energy solutions—from rooftop solar panels to large-scale grid storage.
Key Points: – Oil rises on U.S.-Iran tensions and Russia sanctions threat. – OPEC+ holds steady but may boost output in July. – Prices stay volatile amid supply risks and demand concerns
Oil prices edged higher Wednesday as traders reacted to a flurry of geopolitical developments that could disrupt supplies from two of the world’s key producers: Russia and Iran.
West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude rose by 1.6%, settling just below $62 a barrel. The gains came as U.S. President Donald Trump warned that Russian President Vladimir Putin was “playing with fire” following a recent escalation of attacks in Ukraine. The remarks have fueled speculation that Washington could impose fresh sanctions on Russia’s energy sector — a move that would likely reduce Russian oil exports and tighten global supply.
Earlier this year, similar sanctions helped push crude prices above $80 per barrel before prices retreated amid growing fears of oversupply and global economic uncertainty. Although talks between Russia and Ukraine are scheduled to resume in Istanbul on June 2, markets remain on edge over the potential fallout of continued conflict.
Adding to the market tension is mounting uncertainty over Iran’s nuclear program. According to The New York Times, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has threatened military action that could target Tehran’s nuclear infrastructure, potentially derailing ongoing negotiations between Iran and the United States. A breakdown in talks could further hinder Iran’s ability to export oil, tightening the global supply picture.
Still, market optimism is tempered by bearish pressures, particularly around the role of the OPEC+ alliance. On Wednesday, the group ratified its existing production quotas through the end of next year, even as eight key member countries prepare for another round of discussions this weekend. Insiders say some members are pushing for a third consecutive monthly production hike starting in July.
“The early confirmation of quotas puts added pressure on this weekend’s decision,” said Robert Yawger, director of energy futures at Mizuho Securities USA. “The market is essentially at the mercy of OPEC on Saturday.”
Rising output from OPEC+ — particularly from members reviving previously idled capacity — has stoked concerns about oversupply. Some segments of the Brent futures curve have flipped into contango, a market condition where future prices are higher than current prices, signaling a supply glut.
Despite the recent uptick, oil prices have trended downward since mid-January, weighed down by global trade tensions, including sweeping tariffs introduced by the Trump administration and retaliatory measures from affected countries. These trade frictions have stoked fears of slower economic growth and weaker demand for fuel.
However, with tentative signs of easing trade disputes and renewed geopolitical risk in oil-producing regions, analysts say the next few weeks will be crucial in determining the market’s direction.
“Oil is being pulled in opposite directions,” said one market strategist. “If sanctions tighten and diplomacy falters, prices could surge. But if OPEC turns on the taps and global growth stalls, we could be looking at a very different scenario.”
Graham Corporation designs, manufactures and sells critical equipment for the energy, defense and chemical/petrochemical industries. The Company designs and manufactures custom-engineered ejectors, vacuum pumping systems, surface condensers and vacuum systems. It is a nuclear code accredited fabrication and specialty machining company. It supplies components used inside reactor vessels and outside containment vessels of nuclear power facilities. Its equipment is found in applications, such as metal refining, pulp and paper processing, water heating, refrigeration, desalination, food processing, pharmaceutical, heating, ventilating and air conditioning. For the defense industry, its equipment is used in nuclear propulsion power systems for the United States Navy. The Company’s products are used in a range of industrial process applications in energy markets, including petroleum refining, defense, chemical and petrochemical processing, power generation/alternative energy and other.
Joe Gomes, CFA, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Generalist , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Hans Baldau, Associate Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
New Award. Yesterday, Graham announced that its Barber-Nichols subsidiary was awarded a $136.5 million follow-on contract to support the U.S. Navy’s Virginia Class Submarine program. This new award strengthens Graham’s position as a critical supplier to the U.S. Navy’s undersea programs.
Details. The contract period of performance extends from April 2025 through February 2034. Graham recognized approximately $50 million in backlog from the contract during the fourth quarter of the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025 to procure long-lead-time materials. As a reminder, the backlog at the end of the fiscal third quarter totaled $384.7 million, just below a record high.
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*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision.
Key Points: – Oil inches up as U.S.-Iran nuclear talks stall without resolution. – Geopolitical risks and strong U.S. data support prices amid market fears. – Bearish sentiment persists due to OPEC+ supply hikes and rising U.S. stockpiles.
Oil prices edged higher this week as U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations failed to deliver significant progress, deepening market uncertainty and raising concerns over potential disruptions in global supply. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude hovered near $61 a barrel following a fifth round of talks in Rome, where both sides reported “some but not conclusive progress.”
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi acknowledged that while talks had moved forward, critical issues remain unresolved. The lack of a breakthrough is fueling doubts about whether Iranian crude will re-enter the market anytime soon. Traders are watching closely, as failed negotiations could restrict supply from the OPEC member and tighten global markets.
Geopolitical tension is further intensifying sentiment. Reports from U.S. intelligence suggesting that Israel may be preparing to strike Iranian nuclear facilities have added to anxiety in the energy sector. While Iranian officials indicated that a deal limiting nuclear weapons development might be possible, Tehran remains firm on continuing uranium enrichment—an issue that could derail diplomacy.
Meanwhile, strong U.S. economic data helped buoy prices after a brief dip triggered by fresh tariff threats from former President Donald Trump. In a social media post, Trump criticized the European Union as “very difficult to deal with” and suggested a sweeping 50% tariff on EU imports starting June 1. The rhetoric briefly shook markets, but solid U.S. consumer and industrial data helped counterbalance demand fears.
Despite the recent uptick, oil’s broader outlook remains bearish. Crude prices are down about 14% year-to-date, recently touching lows not seen since 2021. A faster-than-anticipated easing of production limits by OPEC+ and rising U.S. commercial oil stockpiles have both added to concerns about oversupply.
Energy strategist Jens Naervig Pedersen from Danske Bank emphasized that bearish sentiment persists. He cited ongoing output hikes by OPEC+, lackluster progress in both trade and nuclear talks, and the possibility of sanctions relief for Iran as factors undermining oil prices.
Looking ahead, a virtual meeting of key OPEC+ producers, including Saudi Arabia, is set for June 1 to decide on output levels for July. Most analysts surveyed by Bloomberg anticipate a continued rise in production, which could further pressure prices.
Adding another wrinkle, the European Commission is proposing to lower the price cap on Russian oil to $50 a barrel. Currently set at $60, the cap was designed to punish Russia for its war in Ukraine while keeping oil flowing. With prices already low, the existing ceiling is seen as ineffective.
In summary, oil is caught in a tug-of-war between geopolitical risk and structural oversupply. Unless a clear resolution emerges in U.S.-Iran talks or OPEC+ shifts its stance on production, the market may remain volatile with a downward bias.
Mark Reichman, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Natural Resources, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Hans Baldau, Associate Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
First quarter financial results. Hemisphere generated first quarter oil and gas revenue of C$27.3 million, an increase of 30.4% year-over-year, and above our estimate of C$24.4 million. Net income amounted to C$8.9 million or C$0.09 per share compared to C$6.8 million or C$0.07 per share during the prior year period and our estimates of C$8.2 million or C$0.08 per share. The strong earnings were reflective of a 22.3% year-over-year increase in production to 3,833 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boe/d) from 3,133 boe/d, along with better-than-expected commodity pricing due to the company’s strategic hedging. Adjusted funds flow (AFF) amounted to C$12.7 million or C$0.13 per diluted share compared to C$10.1 million or C$0.10 per diluted share during the prior year period. We had forecasted AFF of C$11.2 million.
Updating estimates. Based on first quarter results and management’s production guidance of 3,800 boe/d for the second quarter, we are raising our 2025 revenue estimates to C$98.2 million from C$94.8 million. We have modestly increased our operating expense estimate to C$38.4 million from C$37.6 million. Additionally, we are raising our net income and earnings per share (EPS) estimates to C$31.3 million and C$0.30, from C$30.3 million and C$0.29. We expect full year 2025 AFF of C$44.7 million, up from our previous estimate of C$43.0 million.
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*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision.
Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – May 22, 2025) – Hemisphere Energy Corporation (TSXV: HME) (OTCQX: HMENF) (“Hemisphere” or the “Company”) provides its financial and operating results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025, declares a quarterly dividend payment to shareholders, renews credit facility, and provides operations update.
Q1 2025 Highlights
Attained record quarterly production of 3,833 boe/d (99% heavy oil), a 21% increase over the same period of last year.
Generated $27.3 million in revenue, a 30% increase over the first quarter of 2024.
Achieved total operating and transportation costs of $14.63/boe.
Delivered an operating netback1 of $17.0 million, or $49.27/boe.
Realized quarterly adjusted funds flow from operations (“AFF”)1 of $12.7 million, or $36.83/boe, a 26% increase over the first quarter of 2024.
Generated free funds flow1 of $11.5 million, or $0.12 per share.
Distributed $2.4 million, or $0.025 per share, in dividends to shareholders during the quarter.
Purchased and cancelled 709,700 shares for $1.3 million under the Company’s Normal Course Issuer Bid (“NCIB”).
Exited the first quarter with positive working capital1 of $14.1 million, compared to $4.2 million at the end of March 2024.
(1) Operating netback, adjusted funds flow from operations (AFF), free funds flow, capital expenditure, and working capital are non-IFRS measures, or when expressed on a per share or boe basis, non-IFRS ratio, that do not have any standardized meaning under IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other entities. Non-IFRS financial measures and ratios are not standardized financial measures under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar financial measures disclosed by other issuers. Refer to the section “Non-IFRS and Other Specified Financial Measures”.
Selected financial and operational highlights should be read in conjunction with Hemisphere’s unaudited condensed interim consolidated financial statements and related notes, and the Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the three months ended March 31, 2025 which are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on Hemisphere’s website at www.hemisphereenergy.ca. All amounts are expressed in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted.
Quarterly Dividend
Hemisphere is pleased to announce that its Board of Directors has approved a quarterly cash dividend of $0.025 per common share in accordance with the Company’s dividend policy. The dividend will be paid on June 30, 2025 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on June 19, 2025. The dividend is designated as an eligible dividend for income tax purposes.
Including Hemisphere’s special dividend of $0.03 per common share paid in April and base quarterly dividends of $0.025 per common share in February and June, Hemisphere will have paid its shareholders $0.08 per common share in dividends during the first half of 2025.
Credit Facility
The Company has completed its annual bank review and renewed its $35.0 million two-year extendible credit facility with the same key terms, and the next annual review date set for May 31, 2026.
Operations Update
With the majority of Hemisphere’s 2025 capital spending scheduled for the latter half of the year, the Company generated $11.5 million in free funds flow during the first quarter. Current second quarter production of approximately 3,800 boe/d (99% heavy oil, field estimates between April 1 – May 15, 2025) is consistent with that of the first quarter, and represents an increase of 13% over fourth quarter production of 3,359 boe/d (99% heavy oil), due both to downtime in November and continued injection support from Hemisphere’s polymer floods at its Atlee Buffalo projects in southeast Alberta.
At Hemisphere’s Marsden pilot polymer flood project, injection continues to repressure the reservoir. Management anticipates that polymer response could take until late 2025, at which time the Company will determine economics of further development.
Management continues to closely monitor the volatility of the oil market and will adjust capital spending accordingly. With over $14 million in working capital and an undrawn credit line, Hemisphere will prioritize shareholder returns, share buybacks, and potential acquisition activity over accelerated capital spending.
Annual General and Special Meeting of Shareholders
Hemisphere’s Annual General and Special Meeting of Shareholders will be held at 10:00 am (Pacific Daylight Time) on June 2, 2025 in the Walker Room of the Terminal City Club located at 837 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, British Columbia.
About Hemisphere Energy Corporation
Hemisphere is a dividend-paying Canadian oil company focused on maximizing value-per-share growth with the sustainable development of its high netback, ultra-low decline conventional heavy oil assets through polymer flood enhanced oil recovery methods. Hemisphere trades on the TSX Venture Exchange as a Tier 1 issuer under the symbol “HME” and on the OTCQX Venture Marketplace under the symbol “HMENF”.
For further information, please visit the Company’s website at www.hemisphereenergy.ca to view its corporate presentation or contact:
Don Simmons, President & Chief Executive Officer Telephone: (604) 685-9255 Email: info@hemisphereenergy.ca
Mark Reichman, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Natural Resources, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
Investor webinar. Century Lithium recently discussed the Angel Island Lithium project during an insightful investor webinar. Key highlights included: 1) Angel Island is an advanced project with one of the largest lithium deposits in the United States, 2) the project employs a proven patent-pending process for chloride leaching, along with direct lithium extraction to produce lithium carbonate, 3) Century has a secured a 1,770 acre-feet per year water rights permit, and 4) the company has demonstrated its ability to consistently produce battery grade lithium carbonate on-site at its pilot plant in Amargosa Valley, Nevada.
Nearing completion of a Plan of Operations. Management expects to submit a Plan of Operations to the Bureau of Land Management within the next few months, which would enable the company to initiate the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) permitting process. We anticipate the NEPA permitting process could take between 12 and 24 months, depending on whether an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement is required. An environmental impact statement generally takes longer.
Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.
This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).
*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision.
InPlay Oil is a junior oil and gas exploration and production company with operations in Alberta focused on light oil production. The company operates long-lived, low-decline properties with drilling development and enhanced oil recovery potential as well as undeveloped lands with exploration possibilities. The common shares of InPlay trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol IPO and the OTCQX Exchange under the symbol IPOOF.
Mark Reichman, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Natural Resources, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Hans Baldau, Associate Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
First quarter financial results. InPlay Oil reported a first quarter net loss of C$2.9 million or C$0.18 per share compared to net income of C$1.7 million or C$0.02 per share during the prior year period. This was below our net income estimate of C$4.2 million or C$0.15 per share, primarily due to an unrealized loss on derivative contracts of C$4.6 million and higher-than-expected expenses. Moreover, commodity prices declined slightly during the first quarter, leading to lower revenues of C$38.4 million compared to our estimate of C$40.4 million.
Corporate 2025 guidance. The company generated quarterly production of 9,076 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boe/d), a 5% increase year-over-year and above our expectations of 8,800 boe/d. The company is raising its estimated field production expectations to 21,500 boe/d, a marked increase from 18,750 boe/d, and expects 2025 full year production to be in the range of 16,000 to 16,800 boe/d. Revenue guidance has been adjusted downward to C$46.75 to C$51.75 boe/d from C$56.50 to C$61.50 boe/d. Adjusted funds flow is expected to be between C$124 million and C$133 million, down from $204 million.
Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.
This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).
*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision.
CALGARY, AB, May 8, 2025 /CNW/ – InPlay Oil Corp. (TSX: IPO) (OTCQX: IPOOF) (“InPlay” or the “Company“) announces its financial and operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and an updated 2025 capital budget following the successful completion of the strategic acquisition of Cardium light oil focused assets (the “Acquired Assets“) in the Pembina area of Alberta (the “Acquisition“) from Obsidian Energy Ltd. And certain of its affiliates (collectively “Obsidian“). InPlay’s condensed unaudited interim financial statements and notes, as well as Management’s Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) for the three months ended March 31, 2025 will be available at “www.sedarplus.ca” and on our website at “www.inplayoil.com“. All figures presented herein reflect the Company’s six (6) to one (1) share consolidation, which was effective April 14, 2025. An updated corporate presentation will be available on our website shortly.
First Quarter 2025 Highlights
Achieved average quarterly production of 9,076 boe/d(1) (55% light crude oil and NGLs), a 5% increase over Q1 2024 and ahead of internal forecasts.
Generated strong quarterly Adjusted Funds Flow (“AFF”)(2) of $16.8 million ($1.10 per basic share(3)).
Returned $4.1 million to shareholders by way of monthly dividends, equating to a 16% yield relative to the current share price. Since November 2022 InPlay has distributed $44 million in dividends including dividends declared to date.
Maintained a strong operating income profit margin(3) of 54%.
Improved field operating netbacks(3) to $25.71/boe, an increase of 3% compared to Q4 2024.
First quarter results exceeded expectations, driven in part by the outperformance of newly drilled wells at Pembina Cardium Unit #7 (PCU#7). A two well pad delivered average initial production (“IP”) rates of 677 boe/d (75% light oil and NGLs) over the first 30 days and 492 boe/d (66% light oil and NGLs) over the first 60 days, both significantly above expectations. Over the initial two-month period, production from these wells was more than 100% above our type curve. These wells ranked in the top-ten for production rates for all Cardium wells in the basin for the month of March.
Complementing InPlay’s strong operational momentum, Obsidian drilled four (4.0 net) wells on the Acquired Assets in the first quarter. The first two (2.0 net) wells, which started production mid quarter, are outperforming our internal type curve by approximately 50% with average IP rates of 304 boe/d (91% light oil and NGLs) over the first 30 days and 295 boe/d (85% light oil and NGLs) over the first 60 days. The remaining two wells, brought online in the final days of the first quarter, are performing more than 350% above our internal type curve, with average IP rates per well of 887 boe/d (88% light oil and NGLs) over their initial 30 day period.
The Company is very excited about the highly accretive Pembina Acquisition announced February 19, 2025 and had anticipated strong results from the combined assets. The exceptional results from the first quarter drilling program, combined with the outperformance of base production, have driven current field estimated production to approximately 21,500 boe/d (64% light oil and NGLs) significantly exceeding what we had initially forecasted at the announcement of the Acquisition. Given the current volatility in commodity prices, this material outperformance provides the Company with significant flexibility to scale back our capital program, providing “more for less” while maintaining our production forecasts, allowing for more aggressive debt repayment even in a lower pricing environment.
2025 Capital Budget and Associated Guidance
Following the closing of the highly accretive Acquisition on April 7, 2025, InPlay is pleased to provide initial pro forma guidance inclusive of the Acquired Assets. This guidance reflects the exceptional operational performance across the Company’s expanded asset base, while taking into account the current volatile commodity price environment. It also underscores InPlay’s continued commitment to maximizing free cash flow to support ongoing debt reduction, while positioning the Company to support its return to shareholder strategy.
InPlay’s Board has approved an updated capital program of $53 – $60 million for 2025. InPlay plans to drill approximately 5.5 – 7.5 net Extended Reach Horizontal (“ERH”) Cardium wells over the remainder of the year. A significant portion of the remaining 2025 capital budget is expected to be directed toward the Acquired Assets, which (as outlined above) continue to materially outperform internally modelled type curves. Cost efficiencies realized through InPlay’s recent drilling program, combined with the application of InPlay’s drilling and completion techniques to the Acquired Assets, are expected to further enhance well economics. Capital will also be spent tying in certain InPlay assets into the newly acquired facilities, eliminating significant trucking costs, and marks the first step in our synergy cost savings strategy. Due to the outperformance of production across our asset base, InPlay has reduced total capital spending for the remainder of 2025 by approximately 30% (relative to initial expectations) without reducing production estimates.
Key highlights of the updated 2025 capital program include:
Production per Share Growth:
Forecasted average annual production of 16,000 – 16,800 boe/d(1) (60% – 62% light oil and NGLs), a 15% increase (based on mid-point) in production per weighted average share compared to 2024 despite 30% less capital spending than initially expected, driven by:
Lower corporate base decline rate of 24% due to the favorable decline profile of the Acquired Assets;
Improved corporate netbacks driven by the higher oil and liquids weighting of the Acquired Assets; and
Enhanced capital efficiencies from high graded drilling inventory of the pro forma assets.
FAFF Generation and Dividend Sustainability:
AFF(2) per weighted average share(4) of $5.00 – $5.35, a 13% increase (based on mid-point) compared to 2024.
Free adjusted funds flow (“FAFF”)(3) of $68 – $76 million equating to a 35% – 40% FAFF Yield(3), a 10x increase (based on mid-point) in FAFF per share compared to 2024 despite a 17% year over year reduction in forecasted WTI price.
Top Tier Returns:
Total return of 50% – 55% after combining FAFF Yield and production per share growth(4), which is expected to be at the high end of our peer group.
Debt Reduction:
Excess FAFF(3) is planned to be used to reduce debt.
Projected year-end Net Debt(2) of $213 – $221 million equating to a $31 – $39 million reduction from closing of the Acquisition.
Year-end Net Debt to Q4 2025 annualized EBITDA(3) ratio of 1.1x – 1.3x.
InPlay continues to monitor global trade and commodity dynamics, including United States tariffs on Canada. Capital spending will be weighted towards the back end of the year with drilling expected to resume again in August, providing ample time to finalize capital spending allocation depending on commodity pricing and continued asset performance. As a result of minimal capital spending in the second quarter, InPlay anticipates generating significant FAFF which will be directed to reducing debt. InPlay will remain flexible and will make decisions based on our core strategy of disciplined capital allocation, maintaining financial strength to ensure the long term sustainability of our strategy and return to shareholder program.
Updated 2025 Guidance Summary:
Following closing of the Acquisition, a significant hedging program was undertaken to help provide downside commodity price protection. As further detailed in the hedging summary section in this press release, InPlay has hedged approximately 75% of its net after royalty oil production and 67% of its net after royalty production on a BOE basis for the remainder of 2025. InPlay’s strong hedge book provides insulation to the current commodity price volatility which is highlighted in the sensitivity table below.
With low decline high netback assets, a flexible budget, a resilient balance sheet, and becoming a larger company, InPlay remains well positioned to sustainably navigate future commodity price cycles. Adhering to this disciplined strategy has allowed the Company to navigate previous commodity price cycles including the COVID-19 pandemic price environment.
Financial and Operating Results:
First Quarter 2025 Financial & Operations Overview:
The year has begun with strong momentum as production for the quarter exceeded internal forecasts, largely due to the outperformance of new ERH wells in PCU#7. Three (3.0 net) ERH wells were brought online at the end of February as part of a $13.9 million capital program, inclusive of $1.4 million invested in well optimization initiatives which continues to lower corporate declines. Production averaged 9,076 boe/d(1) (55% light crude oil and NGLs) in the quarter, a 5% increase from 8,605 boe/d(1) in the first quarter of 2024.
Notably, a two well pad drilled in PCU#7 exceeded expectations, delivering average IP rates of 677 boe/d (75% light oil and NGLs) and 492 boe/d (66% light oil and NGLs) per well over their first 30 and 60 days, respectively, which is over 100% above our internally modeled type curve for these wells.
Obsidian drilled four (4.0 net) wells on the Acquired Assets in the first quarter. The first two (2.0 net) wells, which came on production mid quarter, are outperforming the internal type curve with IP rates averaging 304 boe/d (91% light oil and NGLs) and 295 boe/d (85% light oil and NGLs) over the first 30 and 60 days, respectively (approximately 50% above our internally modelled type curve). The last two wells were brought online in the final days of the quarter and are performing significantly above internal forecasts with IP rates averaging 887 boe/d (88% light oil and NGLs) per well over their first 30 days (more than 350% above our type curve).
AFF for the quarter was $16.8 million. In addition, the Company returned $4.1 million ($0.09 per share) in base dividends to shareholders which equates to a yield of 16% based on the current share price. Net debt at quarter-end totaled $63 million, with a net debt to EBITDA ratio(3) of 0.8x, reflecting a healthy financial position.
On behalf of the entire InPlay team and the Board of Directors, we thank our shareholders for their continued support as we advance our strategy of disciplined growth, returns, and long-term value creation. We are excited to report our progress with respect to the strategic Acquisition.
For further information please contact:
Doug Bartole President and Chief Executive Officer InPlay Oil Corp. Telephone: (587) 955-0632
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Key Points – US plans tariffs up to 3,521% on solar panel imports from four Southeast Asian nations. – Domestic solar stocks surged, led by First Solar and Sunnova Energy. – The move could revive US-based solar manufacturing and reshape the industry.
Solar stocks rallied Tuesday after the US Department of Commerce unveiled plans to impose massive tariffs — as high as 3,521% — on solar panel imports from four Southeast Asian countries. The move sent shares of domestic solar manufacturers sharply higher as investors bet on a wave of renewed demand for American-made panels.
First Solar (FSLR) led the charge, soaring more than 9%, while Sunnova Energy (NOVA) jumped over 12%. Other solar-related names like SolarEdge Technologies (SEDG), Array Technologies (ARRY), and Enphase Energy (ENPH) also posted notable gains. The Invesco Solar ETF (TAN), a barometer for the sector, rose nearly 5% on the day, signaling a broad-based rally.
The proposed duties follow a yearlong investigation into claims that Chinese solar manufacturers were using proxy operations in Southeast Asia to circumvent earlier trade restrictions. The Commerce Department concluded that imports from Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam were being “dumped” into the US market — sold at artificially low prices — with the backing of Chinese state subsidies. Companies in Cambodia that failed to cooperate with the probe face the stiffest penalties.
If approved by the International Trade Commission (ITC), the tariffs could reshape the competitive landscape for solar panel manufacturing, providing a significant tailwind for US-based producers. The ITC has until June 2 to determine whether the subsidized imports harmed the domestic solar industry — a key requirement before the Commerce Department can implement the levies.
The decision is a major victory for the American Alliance for Solar Manufacturing, a coalition of US-based producers that pushed for the trade probe. The group has long argued that Chinese-headquartered firms have gamed the system by establishing operations in neighboring countries while continuing to benefit from Chinese subsidies. Advocates say the resulting price suppression has undermined domestic companies and led to job losses across the sector.
For US manufacturers, the announcement caps years of efforts to shift production closer to home — a trend first accelerated by the Biden administration’s Inflation Reduction Act, which offered tax incentives for domestic clean energy development. Companies like Enphase and First Solar have been actively reshoring production. First Solar, for example, opened a new facility in Alabama last year and now boasts a sizable manufacturing footprint in Ohio and Louisiana.
Despite Tuesday’s rally, solar stocks have struggled in 2025. Rising interest rates have increased financing costs for consumers, putting downward pressure on demand. The sector was also rattled by political headwinds following President Trump’s return to the White House and his vocal support for traditional energy. The tariffs, however, may signal a shift — a more nuanced approach to energy independence that could favor domestic solar even under a fossil fuel-friendly administration.
While the solar ETF TAN remains down more than 13% year to date and 27% lower over the past 12 months, the tariff announcement could serve as a turning point. Investors appear to be recalibrating their expectations for the space, betting that the tariff protections will help stabilize margins and renew growth.
If finalized, the tariffs could usher in a new chapter for American solar, one where domestic innovation and manufacturing play a central role in the industry’s expansion.
InPlay Oil is a junior oil and gas exploration and production company with operations in Alberta focused on light oil production. The company operates long-lived, low-decline properties with drilling development and enhanced oil recovery potential as well as undeveloped lands with exploration possibilities. The common shares of InPlay trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol IPO and the OTCQX Exchange under the symbol IPOOF.
Mark Reichman, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Natural Resources, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Hans Baldau, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
Share consolidation. As of April 21, 2025, InPlay Oil shares are trading on a post-consolidation basis, with 27,939,437 common shares outstanding. The terms of the share consolidation were one post-consolidation common share per six pre-consolidation common shares. Fractional shares resulting from the consolidation were rounded down to the nearest whole number.
Updating estimates and price target. We are updating our 2025 estimates to reflect fewer shares outstanding and lower crude oil price estimates. For 2025, we are lowering our oil and gas revenue and earnings per share estimates to C$318.7 million and C$1.34, from C$333.5 million and C$1.46, both adjusted for the share consolidation. Moreover, we have lowered our adjusted funds flow (AFF) to C$149.5 million from C$161.6 million. We are maintaining our production estimate of 18,750 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boe/d) post the Pembina acquisition, which averages 15,816 boe/d for the full-year 2025.
Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.
This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).
*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision.
Mark Reichman, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Natural Resources, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Hans Baldau, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
Full-year 2024 financial results. Hemisphere Energy reported full-year net income and earnings per share of C$33.1 million and C$0.33, respectively, slightly above our estimates of C$32.3 million and C$0.32. The variance is mainly due to stronger oil pricing of $79.48, compared to our estimate of $76.31. Year-over-year, oil and natural gas revenue increased ~18% to C$79.7 million from C$67.7 million. This increase was driven by increased production and more robust pricing of 3,436 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boe/d) and $79.48, respectively, compared to 3,125 boe/d and $74.07. Likewise, adjusted funds flow (AFF) increased 16% in 2024 to C$45.8 million from C$39.4 million in 2023. We had forecast AFF of C$45.4 million.
Updating estimates. Based on lower crude oil price estimates, we are lowering our 2025 net income and earnings per share estimates to C$30.3 million and C$0.29, respectively, from C$37.2 million and C$0.37. Additionally, we are decreasing our adjusted funds flow estimate to C$42.9 million from C$50.6 million. We are maintaining our 2025 average daily production estimate of 3,900 boe/d, an increase of ~14% over 2024.
Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.
This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).
*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision.
