EOG's Production Gains Don't Come at the Expense of Its Cost Discipline

EOG's capital allocation strategy sits somewhat alone relative to other US exploration and production, or E&P, players. While the consolidation bug has bitten its peers and the integrated majors, EOG principally focuses on organic exploration efforts. And, like other US E&P peers, EOG has embraced a capital allocation policy that emphasizes returning cash to shareholders, yet retains a willingness to invest in modest production growth. Finally, in an industry that overextended itself during the shale revolution, EOG pivoted sooner than most in becoming a low-cost provider. EOG's enviable asset mix, including its leading position in the Delaware Basin, position the firm as a premier shale player with industry-leading returns on capital.