Kawasaki, Japan, Feb 10, 2010 - (ACN Newswire) - Fujitsu Laboratories Ltd. and the University of Toronto today announced their joint development of a new processing method for transceiver chips used in gigabit-class(1) high-speed data transmission over wirelines. The new technology employs digital circuitry to replace previously-required structures that used analog circuits. While analog processing require circuits that are adapted to the specifications of a signal being transmitted, such as transmission distance and amplitude, this new digital approach can perform these optimizations automatically, so that a single circuit could be used to accommodate a wide range of various wireline communications. Compared to conventional processing methods, this new digital-processing method makes it possible to shorten development periods by approximately half. It is anticipated that this new technology in the future could be applied to a variety of wireline communication applications, including 10 Gbps high-speed Ethernet in datacenters.
Details of this technology were presented at the IEEE International Solid-State Circuits Conference 2010 (ISSCC 2010) being held in San Francisco from February 7-11. (Presentation number: 8.7)
Background and Technological Challenges
File size data volumes for large photographic, audio, and video files are becoming increasingly larger, thus requiring a significant amount of bandwidth to transmit, leading to demand for ever-faster wireline data communications. Conventional transceiver chips rely on analog circuitry which needs to be optimized to accommodate specifications of the signal being transmitted - such as transmission distance and amplitude - and therefore require multiple transceiver chips to be designed in order to accommodate for various applications.
With a growing diversity of devices featuring high-speed data transmission, the need to optimize an existing technology for every new type of device or model has become a bottleneck in the development process. Efforts to develop transceiver chips within short development periods that can accommodate the wide range of different devices have been proven challenging.
Newly-developed Technology
Fujitsu Laboratories and the University of Toronto have developed a digital circuit-based transceiver chip. Featuring digital circuitry, the new transceiver chip can automatically optimize itself for a variety of high-speed communications circuits, thus significantly reducing development periods by approximately half compared with conventional methods.
This technology detects variations in the delay on the time axis of the input signal, caused during data transmission, and based on that can automatically adjust the timing it uses for judging whether an incoming signal is a 0 or 1 (Figure 1). Since variations in data transmissions increase along with faster transmission speeds, this new technology is essential for accurate data exchange. This is the world's first technology to achieve Gbps-class speeds without the use of analog circuitry elements, while offering fully-digital timing adjustments for signal-determination.
Results
As a world's first, by using digital circuitry-based high-speed transceiver technology, Fujitsu Laboratories and the University of Toronto's new technology makes it possible to reduce the design and development period for a gigabit-class transceiver chip by approximately one-half (1/2) compared with conventional methods. This suggests that transceiver chips for a wide range of communications devices could be offered in a timely manner.
Future Developments
Fujitsu Laboratories and the University of Toronto will continue with development of this technology to optimize the digital signal processing, to further reduce the transceiver's power consumption.
Glossary and Notes
1 Gigabit-class/Gigabits-per-second (Gbps):Gigabits-per-second (Gbps) expresses data rate and indicates how many gigabits can be transferred per second. 10 Gbps is 10 billion bits-per-second (10 billion bps) = 10,000 megabits-per-second (10,000 Mbps), and indicates that 10 billion bits of data can be transferred per second.
About University of Toronto
Established in 1827, the University of Toronto is Canada's largest university, recognized as a global leader in research and teaching. U of T's distinguished faculty, institutional record of groundbreaking scholarship and wealth of innovative academic opportunities continually attract outstanding students and academics from around the world. U of T is committed to providing a learning experience that benefits from both a scale almost unparalleled in North America and from the close-knit learning communities made possible through its college system and academic divisions. Located in and around Toronto, one of the world's most diverse regions, U of T's vibrant academic life is defined by a unique degree of cultural diversity in its learning community. The University is sustained environmentally by three green campuses, where renowned heritage buildings stand beside award-winning innovations in architectural design.
For more information: http://www.utoronto.ca/
About Fujitsu Ltd
Fujitsu is a leading provider of IT-based business solutions for the global marketplace. With approximately 160,000 employees supporting customers in 70 countries, Fujitsu combines a worldwide corps of systems and services experts with highly reliable computing and communications products and advanced microelectronics to deliver added value to customers. Headquartered in Tokyo, Fujitsu Limited (TSE: 6702) reported consolidated revenues of 4.6 trillion yen (US$47 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2009. For more information, please visit www.fujitsu.com.
Contact: Fujitsu Laboratories Ltd. Design Solutions Lab. Platform Technologies Lab. Tel: +81-44-754-2635 E-mail:hsio_adc_pr@ml.labs.fujitsu.com University of Toronto Prof. Ali Sheikholeslami Dept. of Electrical and Computer Engineering Tel: +1(416)978-1681 E-mail:ali@eecg.utoronto.ca Address: 10 King's College Road, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3G4
Copyright 2010 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved.
Kawasaki, Japan, Feb 10, 2010 - (ACN Newswire) - Fujitsu Laboratories Limited and the University of Toronto today announced that they have jointly developed the world's first high-reliability read-method for use with spin-torque-transfer (STT) MRAM(1) that is insusceptible to erroneous writes. STT MRAM is regarded as a potential future form of non-volatile memory(2) that could be used as an alternative to flash memory. NOR flash memory that is embedded in microcontrollers widely used in mobile phones and other electronic devices is expected to reach the limits of its feasible miniaturization in the near future, which has led to the search for an alternative low-power non-volatile memory that will allow continued necessary miniaturization. By resolving one of the major obstacles to using STT MRAM, Fujitsu and the University of Toronto's new read-method marks a major step towards the practical implementation of STT MRAM as a necessary replacement for flash memory, in view of future requirements that will be necessary for compact and low-power electronic devices.
Details of this technology were presented at the IEEE International Solid-State Circuits Conference 2010 (ISSCC 2010) being held in San Francisco from February 7-11. (Presentation number: 14.1)
Background
Many electronic devices such as mobile phones or PDAs use microcontrollers with embedded flash memory, which allows onboard software to be rewritten. However, NOR flash memory used in such microcontrollers is nearing the physical limits of its miniaturization, which has led to research on various types of memory that could replace NOR flash memory.
STT MRAM, which uses magnetic materials as the memory storage element, is gaining attention as an emerging potential candidate to replace flash memory, as STT MRAM meets the needs for speed, low power consumption, and miniaturization that would make it a good candidate to replace flash memory.
Technological Challenges
STT MRAM uses memory storage elements that take advantage of the effect in which a current that is passed through a magnetic material - such as a magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ)(3) - reverses its direction of magnetization (Figure 1). Passing a current through the MTJ causes its direction of magnetization to switch between a parallel or anti-parallel state, which has the effect of switching between low resistance and high resistance. Because this can be used to represent the 1s and 0s of digital information, STT MRAM can be used as a non-volatile memory.
Reading STT MRAM involves applying a voltage to the MTJ to discover whether the MTJ offers high resistance to current ("1") or low ("0"). However, a relatively high voltage needs to be applied to the MTJ to correctly determine whether its resistance is high or low, and the current passed at this voltage leaves little difference between the read-current and the write-current. Any fluctuation in the electrical characteristics of individual MTJs could cause what was intended as a read-current, to have the effect of a write-current, thus reversing the direction of magnetization of the MTJ.
Newly-developed Technology
In a joint collaboration, Fujitsu Laboratories and the University of Toronto have developed an innovative circuit design (Figure 3) that for the first time resolves the issue of erroneous writes in STT MRAM during read operations.
The newly developed read-method uses a negative resistance(4) that is intermediate between the MTJ's high resistance and low resistance on a parallel circuit (Figure 4). If the MTJ is in a high-resistance state, this circuit exhibits negative-resistance characteristics. If the MTJ is in a low-resistance state, then it exhibits normal-resistance characteristics. These characteristics allow the resistance value to be read at lower voltages than before, suppressing the tendency of the read operation to reverse the direction of magnetization and avoiding the problem of erroneous write operations.
Results
The development of this new read circuit with negative resistance has resulted in STT MRAM that is insusceptible to erroneous writes caused by fluctuations in the electrical characteristics of the MTJs. It is anticipated that the STT MRAM used as miniaturized non-volatile memory would enable greater high-performance in mobile phones and other electronic devices.
Future Developments
Fujitsu Laboratories and the University of Toronto plan to continue with R&D related to STT MRAM to strive toward practical implementation, such as lowering write currents and developing process technologies for further miniaturization.
Glossary and Notes
1 Spin- Torque-Transfer MRAM:Spin-torque-transfer magnetoresistive (STT) random access memory. MRAM that uses the "spin-torque-transfer" effect to reverse the direction of magnetization of an element by passing current through it.
2 Non-volatile memory:Memory that persists even when electrical power is cut.
3 Magnetic tunnel junction (MJT):A tunnel junction that uses the magnetoresistive effect. Consists of a recording layer made of ferromagnetic material, an insulating film a few atoms thick, and a layer made of ferromagnetic material that will not change its direction of magnetization in the presence of a current.
4 Negative resistance:An element that has negative resistance value, in which its current decreases when voltage rises.
About University of Toronto
Established in 1827, the University of Toronto is Canada's largest university, recognized as a global leader in research and teaching. U of T's distinguished faculty, institutional record of groundbreaking scholarship and wealth of innovative academic opportunities continually attract outstanding students and academics from around the world. U of T is committed to providing a learning experience that benefits from both a scale almost unparalleled in North America and from the close-knit learning communities made possible through its college system and academic divisions. Located in and around Toronto, one of the world's most diverse regions, U of T's vibrant academic life is defined by a unique degree of cultural diversity in its learning community. The University is sustained environmentally by three green campuses, where renowned heritage buildings stand beside award-winning innovations in architectural design.
For more information: http://www.utoronto.ca/
About Fujitsu Ltd
Fujitsu is a leading provider of IT-based business solutions for the global marketplace. With approximately 160,000 employees supporting customers in 70 countries, Fujitsu combines a worldwide corps of systems and services experts with highly reliable computing and communications products and advanced microelectronics to deliver added value to customers. Headquartered in Tokyo, Fujitsu Limited (TSE: 6702) reported consolidated revenues of 4.6 trillion yen (US$47 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2009. For more information, please visit www.fujitsu.com.
Contact: Fujitsu Laboratories Ltd. Technology Integration Lab. Platform Technologies Lab. Tel: +81(46)250-8379 E-mail:til-si@ml.labs.fujitsu.com University of Toronto Prof. Ali Sheikholeslami Dept. of Electrical and Computer Engineering Tel: +1(416)978-1681 E-mail:ali@eecg.utoronto.ca Address: 10 King's College Road, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3G4 Canada
Copyright 2010 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved.
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - Feb. 10, 2010) -
All figures in US$ since SSRI reports in US$
Silver Standard Resources Inc. (TSX: SSO)(NASDAQ: SSRI) today reports that the ramp-up at its wholly-owned Pirquitas Mine in Argentina is proceeding well and the engineering work for the San Luis Project in Peru and the Pitarrilla Project in Mexico is ongoing.
Pirquitas Mine
At the Pirquitas Mine, 18.0 million tonnes of material have been moved since the mine commenced operations in July 2008. The mine produced 1.1 million ounces of silver and shipped 800,000 ounces in 2009. Production in 2010 is planned to be seven million ounces of silver at an average operating cost of $9.00 per ounce silver (net of by-product credits).
The Pirquitas open pit mine operated at the design rate of 43,000 tonnes per day at a cost of $2.15/tonne (material mined) for 2009. Sulphide ore is currently being exposed.
The plant has a crushing capacity of 6,000 tonnes per day. This feeds a pre-concentration plant that is designed to feed the mill at a rate of 3,200 tonnes per day. The mill's feasibility design capacity was exceeded in both November and December.
The mill is processing transitional ore and is anticipated to process sulphide ore at full capacity in Q2 2010. The tin circuit is commissioned and will be operated when suitable material is available in Q2 2010.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------- PIRQUITAS MINE Preliminary Production Statistics Q3 2009 Q4 2009 Total 2009 Total Material Moved Kt 4,283 3,826 14,319 Ore Processed Kt 138 272 410 Silver Grade g/tonne 129 214 185 Silver Produced ounces 180,000 934,300 1,114,300 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- San Luis Project
At San Luis in Peru, geotechnical drilling for the tailings dam is required and has commenced. The environmental permit application will be submitted when the feasibility study is completed. The feasibility study is expected to be finalized in the second quarter of 2010 upon completion of the geotechnical drilling and related engineering design work.
Pitarrilla Project
At Pitarrilla in Mexico, the Breccia Ridge underground feasibility study is planned for completion in Q4 2010. Contracts for the feasibility study engineering work have been awarded.
Snowfield and Brucejack Projects
A preliminary economic assessment has commenced on the Snowfield Project in British Columbia, and is expected to be reported in the second half of 2010. Exploration planning for the summer is well underway for the 2010 exploration campaign for the Brucejack and Snowfield projects.
Silver Standard Resources Inc. is a silver mining company that intends to grow through exploration and the development of its project pipeline.
To receive Silver Standard's news releases by e-mail, contact Paul LaFontaine, Director, Investor Relations at invest@silverstandard.com or call (888) 338-0046.
Statements contained in this news release that are not historical fact, such as statements regarding the economic prospects of the company's projects, mineral reserve and resource estimates, estimates and expectations of future mineral production, expectations regarding the ramp-up, design, tin circuit integration, mine life, production and costs per ounce of silver at the Pirquitas Mine, future plans or future revenues, and the timing of completion of studies, development or potential expansion or improvements, are forward-looking statements as that term is defined in Canadian Securities legislation and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from estimated results. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the company's ability to raise sufficient capital to fund development, changes in economic conditions or financial markets including changes in the development of a secondary market for Canadian asset backed commercial paper restructured notes, changes in prices for the company's mineral products or increases in input costs, variances in ore grade, mill throughput, or recovery rates from those assumed in mining plans, litigation, legislative, environmental and other judicial, regulatory, political and competitive developments in places where the company does business, technological and operational difficulties or inability to obtain permits encountered in connection with exploration and development activities, labour relations matters, and changing foreign exchange rates, all of which are described more fully in the company's Form 20-F as amended, and other filings with Canadian regulators and the Securities and Exchange Commission. Our forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, expectations and opinions of management on the date the statements are made, and we do not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's beliefs, expectations or opinions should change, other than as required by applicable law. For the reasons set forth above, you should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.
The TSX has neither approved nor disapproved of the information contained herein.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Silver Standard Resources Inc.
Paul LaFontaine
Director, Investor Relations
N.A. toll-free: (888) 338-0046 or Direct: (604) 484-8212
invest@silverstandard.com
www.silverstandard.com
Source: Silver Standard Resources Inc.
- Adds to number of HD channels planned for digital TV service this spring
LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Virgin Media (NASDAQ: VMED) (LSE: VMED), the UK's leading entertainment and communications company, has confirmed its TV customers will soon be able to enjoy Discovery HD as well as more HD shows on demand, as part of the company's growing High-Definition offering.
Launching this spring, Discovery HD on Virgin TV will broadcast all day, every day and offer content from Discovery's extensive collection of more than 1500 hours of HD programming. Discovery HD is full of entertaining shows about popular science, history, engineering, culture and natural history including Extreme Engineering, Mythbusters, NASA's Greatest Missions and Bear Grylls: Born Survivor.
This is Virgin Media's second announcement about new HD channels this year and the company plans to reveal more details about further launches in the coming months. Virgin Media's expanding HD line-up already covers a wide variety of branded entertainment, including drama, sport, documentaries and music, with channels from the BBC and Channel 4 available to all Virgin TV customers, as well as ESPN, FX, MTV Networks, National Geographic, LIVING (a Virgin Media exclusive) and the forthcoming Eurosport HD channel all available for no additional monthly fee to 'XL' TV customers.
In addition, Discovery Networks and Virgin Media will make HD on demand content available, such as Deadliest Catch and Miami Ink. Virgin Media already carries several hundred hours of HD programmes on demand, all ready to start at the touch of a button. This includes HD versions of popular films, as well as BBC iPlayer HD and full television series via Virgin Media's huge TV Choice on Demand archive.
Cindy Rose, executive director of digital entertainment at Virgin Media, said: "Discovery's engrossing programming is all the more amazing in High-Definition and will make a compelling addition to our growing HD line-up. We're adding several more HD channels in the coming months, which we will make available to our XL TV customers for no extra monthly fee. Compelling channels, combined with our vast collection of on-demand programming, will ensure that our customers have the best overall HD entertainment package available."
Dee Forbes, Executive Vice President and Managing Director, Discovery Networks UK, said: "Virgin Media is a valued partner of ours and I am delighted that they have added Discovery's UK HD channel to their portfolio. Discovery has been at the forefront of HD development across the globe and now offers HD services in 23 international markets. HD is increasingly popular with TV viewers and with over 1500 hours of HD content to choose from, Discovery gives consumers the opportunity to see many of their favourite shows in stunning high definition."
For more information on Virgin Media products and services visit: www.virginmedia.com.
- Ends -
Notes to editors
Unlike other providers, Virgin Media does
not charge for HD channels, with all XL TV customers able to receive HD
versions of their favourite channels at no extra cost. A V+ HD digital
video recorder is required to decode HD channels, as well as an HDMI
connecting lead and an HD-ready TV.
About Virgin Media
With almost 10 million customers, Virgin
Media is the UK's first quad-play provider of broadband, TV, phone and
mobile.
The company is one of the largest residential broadband providers in the UK, using a unique fibre optic cable network to deliver next generation ultrafast internet access of up to 50Mb to just over half of all homes. Combined with a high speed ADSL service and mobile broadband products, Virgin Media is able to offer broadband internet access to virtually the entire country.
Virgin Media has the UK's most advanced TV on demand service and is the only TV platform to carry BBC iPlayer. It is the second largest provider of pay TV, was the first to launch a high definition TV service and offers a high-specification, HD-ready V+ personal video recorder.
The company operates the most popular virtual mobile network in the UK which, when launched, was the world's first such mobile phone service. It is also one of the largest fixed-line home phone providers in the country.
Virgin Media also owns Virgin Media Television (VMtv) which runs seven entertainment channels, including Virgin1, LIVING, Bravo and Challenge. VMtv is a 50 per cent joint partner with BBC Worldwide in UKTV, which consists of ten channels including Dave, G.O.L.D., Watch and Alibi.
Virgin Media Inc. is listed on the NASDAQ Stock Market and the London Stock Exchange (VMED).
About Discovery
Discovery Communications (NASDAQ: DISCA,
DISCB, DISCK) is the world's number one nonfiction media company
reaching more than 1.5 billion cumulative subscribers in over 170
countries. Discovery empowers people to explore their world and satisfy
their curiosity through 100-plus worldwide networks, led by Discovery
Channel, Animal Planet, Discovery Science and Discovery HD, as well as
leading consumer and educational products and services, and a
diversified portfolio of digital media services including
HowStuffWorks.com. In the UK, 13 Discovery brands reach over 4.5 million
people per day.
Source: VIRGIN-MEDIA-INC.
CALGARY, ALBERTA--(Marketwire - Feb. 10, 2010) - Talisman Energy Inc. (TSX: TLM) (NYSE: TLM) reported its operating and financial results for 2009:
- Cash flow(1) was $4 billion, down 36% from 2008, primarily due to lower commodity prices. Cash flow in the fourth quarter was $921 million, down 41% from a year earlier, but up 10% compared to the previous quarter;
- Net income was $437 million, down from $3.5 billion in 2008. The company recorded a loss of $111 million for the quarter;
- Earnings from continuing operations(1) were $640 million versus $2.3 billion a year ago. The total for the fourth quarter was $76 million;
- Talisman completed non-core asset sales with proceeds of approximately $2.7 billion;
- Capital spending was $4.3 billion, down from $5.2 billion in 2008;
- Net debt(1) at year end was $2.1 billion, down from $3.9 billion a year earlier;
- Production from continuing operations increased 2% over 2008 to 413,000 boe/d. Total production averaged 425,000 boe/d, down 2% due to asset sales;
- The company replaced 162% of 2009 production with proved reserves, excluding divestitures, and 112% through drilling and non-price revisions;
- Reserve replacement costs were $24.30/boe (excluding price revisions), and $19.72/boe excluding land and price revisions;
- The company spent $1.4 billion on shale plays in North America, adding substantial acreage and progressing development of the Pennsylvania Marcellus and Montney shale programs;
- The company set a new production record in Southeast Asia, volumes increased 18% with completion of the Northern Fields development and increased contract takes at Corridor;
- In January 2010, Talisman acquired an interest in the Jambi Merang PSC in Indonesia;
- In the North Sea, first production from the Rev Field was achieved early in 2009 and the company progressed field developments at Yme, Auk North, Auk South and Burghley;
- Talisman completed a number of transactions to acquire a large exploration position in Papua New Guinea (PNG); and
- The company made exploration discoveries in the North Sea, Colombia and the Kurdistan region of northern Iraq and successfully appraised the Situche discovery in Peru.
(1) The terms "cash flow", "earnings from continuing operations" and "net debt" are non-GAAP measures. Please see the advisories and reconciliations elsewhere in this press release.
"We continued to make significant progress on strategic implementation through 2009, despite the volatile commodity price environment," said John A. Manzoni, President and CEO. "Over the past 18 months, we have been restructuring and repositioning Talisman, focusing the portfolio, upgrading both the quality of assets and the growth potential of the company. 2010 will be an important transition year as we cycle increasing amounts of capital into developing our shale plays in North America.
"A major objective of the strategy is to improve returns through lower reserve replacement costs. We've started to see evidence of this in 2009, largely as a result of successful shale drilling programs. Our proved reserve replacement cost in 2009 was $24.30/boe, 43% lower than 2008 and 25% lower than our three year rolling average. Excluding land expenditures in 2009, this number is below $20/boe.
"We replaced 112% of production in 2009 through drilling and non-price revisions, with 173 mmboe of proved reserve additions, excluding the impact of asset sales. Including the impact of price and other revisions, the number was 251 mmboe or 162%. In North America, we replaced 210% of production with proved reserve additions through drilling.
"With lower oil and natural gas prices brought on by the economic downturn, we saw netbacks fall by over 40% in 2009, and these lower commodity prices had a substantial impact on our financial results.
"Cash flow for the year was approximately $4 billion, versus $6.2 billion a year earlier, reflecting lower commodity prices, although we were helped by cash proceeds from derivative contracts, and lower taxes and royalties. Cash flow in the fourth quarter was $921 million, down from 2008, but up 10% from the third quarter with higher production volumes and commodity prices.
"Reflecting this trend, earnings from continuing operations came in at $640 million versus $2.3 billion, and net income was $437 million, also down sharply, from $3.5 billion a year earlier. We recognized $1.7 billion of gains on our held for trading financial instruments in 2008, compared to a loss of approximately $400 million in 2009. However we generated approximately $1 billion in cash proceeds from these instruments during 2009.
"Production from continuing operations increased 2% to 413,000 boe/d, and our actual production rate for the year was 425,000 boe/d. However, we sold 30,000 boe/d of non-core assets over the course of the year, which lowered total volumes in 2009 by about 15,000 boe/d.
"These sales generated $2.7 billion in proceeds, with metrics of approximately $80,000 per boe per day. The divestment program helped focus our portfolio and strengthen the balance sheet. As a result, we are in strong financial shape with year end net debt at $2.1 billion, compared to $3.9 billion at December 31, 2008.
"Capital spending came in at $4.3 billion, with approximately one-third ($1.4 billion) directed at North American shale programs. Talisman added substantial amounts of acreage in the Pennsylvania Marcellus and Montney shale plays, where we now have approximately 4,800 net drilling locations in our Tier 1 acreage.
"We participated in 66 net shale pilot and development wells, moving the Pennsylvania Marcellus, and two areas within the Montney shale, to commercial development. We expect to exit 2010 with Pennsylvania producing between 250-300 mmcf/d as we ramp up to 10 rigs, and recent well results are coming in better than planned. Pilot work also continues in Quebec.
"We have taken significant steps towards reshaping and strengthening our international exploration portfolio. We have built a strategic land position in PNG through a series of acquisitions, and now have interests in over eight million net acres, as part of a strategy to aggregate significant gas reserves. We also acquired additional exploration acreage within our core operating areas in the North Sea and Southeast Asia, as well as in South America and the Kurdistan region of northern Iraq.
"In the North Sea, we made exploration discoveries at Grevling, Shaw and Godwin, and development options are being evaluated. We also made gas condensate discoveries in Colombia and the Kurdistan region of northern Iraq and drilled a successful appraisal well in Peru.
"In Southeast Asia, the company continues to pursue its successful growth strategy, setting a new production record with completion of the Northern Fields development in Malaysia/Vietnam and increased gas sales at Corridor in Indonesia. Talisman continues to progress development plans for the HSD/HST fields in Vietnam. Talisman and its working interest partners approved sanction of the Kitan discovery in December 2009 and are awaiting approval from the Timor Leste/Australia Authority. We've also recently acquired an interest in the Jambi Merang PSC in Indonesia, near the Corridor gas field.
"In the North Sea, the majority of our development capital program was directed toward progressing the Yme, Burghley, Auk North and Auk South field developments, which will come onstream in the 2010 to 2012 time frame. We commissioned the Rev Field in Norway, with a significant ramp up in production over the course of the year. The company also drilled a number of successful development wells, including three in the Varg field.
"In summary, the transition of our portfolio is on track. We ended the year with a more focused portfolio and a strong balance sheet. We are on a path to transition into higher return, longer-term production growth from shale, and we will continue to step up our investments into shale programs over the next few years. Our investment plan this year reflects that transition, and we will maintain flexibility to ensure we can execute against it."
Financial Results
The financial information contained in this release is unaudited. The company will file its audited Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2009, along with the related Management's Discussion and Analysis, Annual Information Form and Annual Report on Form 40-F by March 8, 2010.
The company announced its capital spending plans for 2010 on January 11, 2010. For additional information related to this press release, please visit Talisman's website at www.talisman-energy.com.
Three months ended Year ended
December 31 2009 2008 2009 2008
----------------------------------------
Cash flow ($ million) 921 1,565 3,961 6,163
----------------------------------------
Cash flow per share (2) 0.91 1.54 3.90 6.06
----------------------------------------
----------------------------------------
Net income (loss) ($ million) (111) 1,202 437 3,519
----------------------------------------
Net income (loss) per share (0.11) 1.18 0.43 3.46
----------------------------------------
----------------------------------------
Earnings from continuing
operations ($ million) 76 502 640 2,330
----------------------------------------
Earnings from continuing
operations per share (2) 0.07 0.49 0.63 2.29
----------------------------------------
Average shares outstanding (million) 1,015 1,015 1,015 1,017
----------------------------------------
(2) The terms "cash flow per share" and "earnings from continuing
operations per share" are non-GAAP measures. Please see the advisories
and reconciliations elsewhere in this press release.
Lower commodity prices had a significant impact on Talisman's 2009 financial results. WTI oil prices averaged approximately US$62/bbl in 2009, down 38% from the 2008 average of US100/bbl. North American natural gas prices also decreased from 2008 with NYMEX and AECO natural gas prices down 55% and 51%, respectively.
Cash flow for 2009 was $4 billion versus $6.2 billion a year earlier. Relative to 2008, lower oil and gas prices contributed to most of the decrease, offset partially by lower cash taxes ($655 million), royalties ($846 million) and higher realized gains on held-for-trading financial instruments ($547 million). Cash flow increased 10% to $921 million compared to the third quarter, with higher production volumes and netbacks.
Earnings from continuing operations, which exclude non-operational items, were $640 million, compared to $2.3 billion a year earlier, again reflecting lower commodity prices.
Net income was $437 million versus $3.5 billion in 2008 impacted by the loss on held for trading financial instruments of $412 million in 2009, compared to a gain of $1.7 billion in 2008, primarily as prices increased through the year and Talisman's hedges rolled forward. The company recorded a loss of $111 million in the fourth quarter, compared to net income of $1.2 billion in 2008, again largely reflecting changes in amounts recognized on held for trading financial instruments.
The company's DD&A expense decreased in the fourth quarter of 2009 and for the full year as a whole, due principally to the requirement in 2008 to use year-end prices to calculate reserves, which resulted in one property in the UK and one property in Norway having no proved reserves. As a consequence, the net book value of these properties of approximately $410 million in the UK and approximately $90 million in Norway was charged to DD&A in the fourth quarter of 2008.
Capital expenditures totalled $4.3 billion, including discontinued operations and non-cash capital lease costs. Talisman spent $4.1 billion on exploration and development in continuing operations during 2009, a decrease from $4.8 billion in 2008. North America accounted for 44% of spending, North Sea development 26%, Southeast Asia development 11% and international exploration 18%.
The company strengthened its balance sheet, reducing net debt to $2.1 billion, down from $3.9 billion in 2008, principally due to the sale of non-core assets.
Production
Three months ended Year ended
December 31 2009 2008 2009 2008
----------------------------------------
Total oil and liquids (bbls/d) 203,000 227,000 211,000 224,000
----------------------------------------
Total natural gas (mmcf/d) 1,320 1,228 1,283 1,247
----------------------------------------
Continuing operations (boe/d) 418,000 407,000 413,000 403,000
----------------------------------------
Discontinued operations (boe/d) 5,000 25,000 12,000 29,000
----------------------------------------
Total production (boe/d) 423,000 432,000 425,000 432,000
----------------------------------------
Production from continuing operations averaged 413,000 boe/d, 2% above 2008; total production for the year was down 2% to 425,000 boe/d, as a result of asset sales. Production from continuing operations increased 6% compared to the prior quarter with increasing shale gas production and the completion of maintenance turnarounds.
North American natural gas production declined with less conventional drilling activity and natural declines, partially offset by increasing production in the Pennsylvania Marcellus and Montney shale, as well as successful development in the Outer Foothills.
Production from continuing operations in the UK averaged 89,000 boe/d for the year, 7% lower than 2008 as a result of maintenance and repair work, and natural declines. In Scandinavia, production increased from the prior year with first production from the Rev field and development drilling at Varg and Brage. Talisman set a new production record in Southeast Asia with completion of the Northern Fields development and increased contract takes at Corridor.
Netbacks
Three months ended Year ended
----------------------------------------
December 31 2009 2008 2009 2008
----------------------------------------
($/boe)
----------------------------------------
Sales 55.51 48.45 49.40 76.03
----------------------------------------
Hedging loss - - - (0.17)
----------------------------------------
Royalties 9.13 8.05 7.34 13.62
----------------------------------------
Transportation 1.64 1.14 1.43 1.34
----------------------------------------
Operating expenses 12.84 13.29 12.91 13.57
----------------------------------------
Netback 31.90 25.97 27.72 47.33
----------------------------------------
----------------------------------------
Oil and liquids netback ($/bbl) 44.68 25.40 37.49 59.01
----------------------------------------
Natural gas netback ($/mcf) 3.35 4.46 3.02 5.78
----------------------------------------
In 2009, the company's average netback was $27.72/boe, 41% lower than 2008, due principally to lower commodity prices in 2009, partially offset by decreases in royalties. Fourth quarter netbacks were up 23% from the same quarter in 2008, averaging $31.90/boe, and 17% above the third quarter of 2009.
Royalty expense was $1.2 billion in 2009, a 42% decrease from 2008, reflecting lower commodity prices. The company's average royalty rate was 15%, a decrease of 3% compared to 2008.
Total operating costs for the company were $2 billion during 2009, relatively consistent with 2008. On a per unit basis, costs decreased 5% to $12.91/boe from the previous year, due mainly to a 4% decrease in the UK and a 17% decrease in Scandinavia.
Proved Gross Reserves
Proved Gross Reserves
Average 2009 Pricing
mmboe
December 31, 2008 1,434.3
Discoveries, extensions and additions 172.6
Revisions and transfers 1.2
Price revisions 77.1
Net acquisitions and dispositions (119.5)
Production (155.0)
December 31, 2009 1,410.7
The company added 251 mmboe of proved gross reserves in 2009 (before asset sales), replacing the equivalent of 162% of annual production. Of the total increase, 77 mmboe (31%) was due to higher prices (average 2009 prices versus year end 2008 prices, using the new SEC rules). Excluding the impact of price changes, the company replaced 112% of production. Total reserves fell by 2% due to non-core asset sales.
At year end 2009, Talisman had 865 mmboe of probable reserves, an increase of 13% from 2008.
In North America, the company replaced 210% of production (129 mmboe) with proved gross reserves through drilling, with 90 mmboe coming from the Marcellus shale. Proved undeveloped reserves (PUDs), account for approximately 26% of total proved reserves in North America.
Internationally, the company replaced 144% of production, including price revisions. No proved reserves were booked for PNG at year end. International reserve additions can be highly variable because they depend on development approval before discoveries can be moved to the proved reserves category.
At year end 2009, the company had approximately 400 mmboe of PUDs, which accounted for 28% of total proved reserves. Of these PUDs, 38% were in North America and 62% were international.
Proved reserve replacement costs averaged $24.30/boe in 2009, compared to $42.87/boe in 2008 and a three year rolling average of $32.38/boe (excluding price impacts).
North America
Production from continuing operations averaged approximately 158,000 boe/d in 2009, a 4% decrease over 2008, due to natural declines and reduced conventional drilling. Natural gas production from continuing operations averaged 788 mmcf/d.
Talisman spent $1.4 billion on shale gas programs in North America, including land, development, infrastructure and drilling. In November 2009, the company announced it had spent $570 million to acquire 170,000 net acres of high quality land in the Pennsylvania Marcellus and Montney shale plays, which now have a potential 4,800 net drilling locations. Talisman now has interests in approximately two million net shale acres.
In the Pennsylvania Marcellus area, the company drilled 53 gross (45.5 net) wells, 38 operated and 15 non-operated. At year end, 27 wells were on production, exiting the year at 65 mmcf/d (December average). Six drilling rigs are currently operating, with plans to increase this up to 10 rigs by year end (drilling up to 170 net wells) with a planned exit rate of between 250-300 mmcf/d.
Talisman continued to progress its Montney shale gas play in 2009. The company drilled 16 gross (15 net) wells, 15 of which were operated and one non-operated. Thirteen wells have been completed to date, of which nine were onstream at year-end, including five horizontal wells that were successfully completed, tested and tied in during the fourth quarter. Total production at year end was 14 mmcf/d (December average), with an expected 2010 exit rate between 40-60 mmcf/d.
Talisman is continuing its pilot program in Quebec where the company holds rights to 756,000 net acres. The company completed the earning phase of its drilling program in Quebec during 2009. The company drilled two horizontal wells in Quebec in 2009 and is currently drilling a third horizontal well. Talisman expects to drill a fourth horizontal well this year, testing all four wells in 2010.
Production from Talisman's conventional areas was 976 mmcfe/d. In total, 64 gross (39 net) wells were drilled in 2009, with excellent results in the Outer Foothills.
Talisman continued to focus its operations, completing sales of non-core midstream assets in Alberta and non-strategic properties in southeast Saskatchewan and southern Alberta. Talisman is evaluating additional sales of conventional assets, depending on market conditions. During 2009, Talisman restructured its North American operations into Conventional and Shale Gas businesses.
UK
Production from continuing operations in the UK averaged 89,000 boe/d, a 7% decrease from 2008. Reductions from a number of fields, due to planned and unplanned shutdowns and declines, offset the reinstatement of Galley and Petronella in 2009, as well as the startup of the Affleck field in August.
The company spent $531 million on development in the UK, with just under half directed at the Auk North and Auk South projects. Additional spending during the year included progressing the Burghley development, completing the Scapa Production Riser Upgrade project and drilling seven development wells.
In the Central North Sea, the Auk North development is underway and two wells were drilled during the year. Auk North is expected to come onstream in 2011. The Auk South redevelopment is also progressing with detailed engineering completed during 2009. First production is expected in 2012.
During the year, the Tweedsmuir Phase 3 water injection development project was completed. The company also progressed the Burghley development, installing the riser and drilling a development well. The subsea and topside facilities will be completed in 2010, with first oil scheduled towards the end of the year.
In January 2009, the company sold its assets in the Netherlands, with proceeds of approximately $600 million.
Scandinavia
Production from continuing operations in Scandinavia averaged 44,000 boe/d for 2009, a 26% increase over 2008, mainly due to increased volumes from Varg and the Rev Field, which came onstream in January. The company spent $528 million on development in Scandinavia during 2009, with approximately 75% directed at the Yme development. A total of eight development wells were drilled in Scandinavia during the year, with an additional four wells drilling at year end.
Development of the Yme Field in the Norwegian Continental Shelf continued throughout year. The company completed the first phase of drilling in the fourth quarter, including three horizontal producers and two water injector wells. First oil from Yme is expected in the second half of 2010. Talisman completed the sale of a 10% interest in the Yme field during 2009.
In the Varg Field, three successful wells were completed in 2009, increasing average net production from 7,500 boe/d in the third quarter to 18,000 boe/d in December.
At Brage, a new oil producer and a new water injector well were completed in 2009, with net oil production averaging 10,800 boe/d at year end. A new development well has been completed more than two months ahead of plan and it is expected to be on production in February 2010.
Production performance improved significantly at the Rev Field, which came onstream early in 2009, increasing from 6,500 boe/d in the third quarter to 23,000 boe/d (net) in fourth quarter.
Southeast Asia
Production from continuing operations in Southeast Asia averaged 108,000 boe/d, an increase of 18% over 2008. The main production increases came from a full year of gas production from the Northern Fields in PM-3 CAA, first oil from the Northern Fields and additional gas sales in Indonesia. There were also increased volumes from the incremental oil recovery program in the Southern Fields, a full year of production from Song Doc, a new infill well in Australia and first production from Tangguh.
In Malaysia, overall production was 31,600 boe/d, up 1% from 2008, but production from the PM-3 CAA increased 14%. Talisman spent $326 million, approximately half of total spending in Southeast Asia to complete the Northern Fields development, including 17 total development wells and one exploration well.
Indonesian production was approximately 66,500 boe/d, 19% higher than 2008, with record production from Corridor due to higher contract takes. In January 2010, Talisman acquired a 25% interest in the onshore Jambi Merang Block where development is underway. Talisman drilled three exploration and 23 development wells in 2009.
Production in Vietnam in 2009 averaged 4,800 bbls/d from Block 46/02. The Government of Vietnam approved reserves assessments for the Hai Su Trang (HST) and Hai Su Den (HSD) fields within Block 15-2/01 and a declaration of commerciality occurred early in the year. The company chose to write off a number of exploration/appraisal wells during 2009, all outside of the development area. These wells encountered hydrocarbons but were not commercial. Talisman has taken this into account and is reviewing the timing of sanction for development of the HST field and an early production scheme for the HSD discovery.
Production in Australia was 5,160 boe/d, 66% higher than 2008. Talisman and its working interest partners approved sanction of the Kitan discovery in December and are waiting approval from the Timor Leste/Australia Authority.
Other
In Talisman's other areas, production from continuing operations during the year averaged 14,000 boe/d, a decrease of 7% from 2008, due to OPEC restrictions. Talisman sold its interests in Trinidad and Tobago and announced the intention to sell assets in Tunisia.
International Exploration
International exploration spending during the year was $756 million, with a number of significant discoveries, in addition to building a highly prospective acreage position in PNG.
Over the course of the year, the company entered into a number of agreements to acquire interests in 10 onshore exploration blocks in the western province of PNG. Four onshore exploration wells are planned this year as the company pursues its gas aggregation strategy. The company now holds interests in 12 blocks covering in excess of eight million net acres subject to regulatory approval.
In Vietnam, Talisman drilled three appraisal wells adjacent to the HSD discovery and farmed-in to two deep water exploration blocks in the Nam Con Son Basin. Blocks 133 and 134 cover approximately 3.3 million acres.
Talisman was awarded the Andaman III block, offshore Indonesia. The block, which is approximately 2.1 million acres in size, is an under-explored, deep water block. Talisman was also awarded two offshore Sabah blocks in Malaysia covering in excess of 3.2 million acres in water depths less than 300 feet.
In the UK, Talisman made discoveries at Godwin and Shaw in the Central North Sea. Pre-engineering work is underway as the company looks to develop these discoveries, along with the Cayley discovery made in late 2007, via the Talisman operated Montrose/Arbroath facilities.
In Norway, Talisman made a discovery at Grevling and an appraisal well is planned for 2010. The company also increased its acreage holdings in the Barents Sea, through the 20th Licence Round and an acreage swap.
The Situche discovery on Block 64 in Peru was successfully appraised in 2009 and drilling was ongoing at year end. In April 2009, Talisman was awarded a 55% working interest in Block 158 in Peru.
Talisman made a significant gas condensate discovery in the Niscota Block in the Colombian Andes Foothills. The Huron-1 well encountered several reservoirs and tested one zone at 3,400 boe/d. In January 2009, Talisman was awarded a 100% working interest in Block 9.
In the Kurdistan region of northern Iraq, the Kurdamir-1 well in Block 44 discovered significant amounts of gas condensate in an upper zone. The well was drilling towards a deeper target at year end. In June 2009, Talisman acquired an interest and operatorship in Block K9.
Talisman Energy Inc. is a global, diversified, upstream oil and gas company, headquartered in Canada. Talisman's three main operating areas are North America, the North Sea and Southeast Asia. The Company also has a portfolio of international exploration opportunities. Talisman is committed to conducting business safely, in a socially and environmentally responsible manner, and is included in the Dow Jones Sustainability (North America) Index. Talisman is listed on the Toronto and New York Stock Exchanges under the symbol TLM. Please visit our website at www.talisman-energy.com.
Forward-Looking Information
This news release contains information that constitutes "forward-looking information" or "forward-looking statements" (collectively "forward-looking information") within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. This forward-looking information includes, among others, statements regarding:
- expected production growth and returns arising from shale;
- maintenance of flexibility in relation to the investment plan;
- expected Pennsylvania production volumes and drilling;
- expected onstream dates of North Sea developments;
- expected medium term growth, and longer-term production growth from shale;
- anticipated filing dates of financial statements, management discussion & analysis, the annual information form, and the annual report;
- the expected 2010 exit rate for the Montney shale gas play;
- planned drilling in Quebec;
- planned sales of conventional assets;
- expected first oil from, and completion of facilities at, the Burghley development;
- expected first oil from the Yme Field;
- expected production timeframe of a new development well at Brage;
- the intention to sell assets in Tunisia;
- planned onshore exploration wells in PNG;
- planned development at Godwin, Shaw, and the Cayley discovery; and
- the planned Grevling appraisal well.
The following material assumptions were used in drawing the conclusions or making the forecasts and projections contained in the forward-looking information contained in this news release. Talisman has set its 2010 capital expenditure plans assuming: (1) Talisman's production in 2010 will be broadly the same as 2009 at around 425,000 boe/d excluding any sales in North America during the year; (2) a US$60/bbl WTI oil price, and (3) a US$3.50/mmbtu NYMEX natural gas price. Information regarding business plans generally assumes that the extraction of crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids remains economic.
Undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is based on current expectations, estimates and projections that involve a number of risks, which could cause actual results to vary and in some instances to differ materially from those anticipated by Talisman and described in the forward-looking information contained in this news release. The material risk factors include, but are not limited to:
- the risks of the oil and gas industry, such as operational risks in exploring for, developing and producing crude oil and natural gas, market demand and unpredictable facilities outages;
- risks and uncertainties involving geology of oil and gas deposits;
- uncertainty related to securing sufficient egress and markets to meet shale gas production;
- the uncertainty of reserves and resources estimates, reserves life and underlying reservoir risk;
- the uncertainty of estimates and projections relating to production, costs and expenses;
- the impact of the economy on the ability of the counterparties to the Company's commodity price derivative contracts to meet their obligations under the contracts;
- potential delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures;
- fluctuations in oil and gas prices, foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates;
- the outcome and effects of any future acquisitions and dispositions;
- health, safety and environmental risks;
- uncertainties as to the availability and cost of financing and changes in capital markets;
- risks in conducting foreign operations (for example, political and fiscal instability or the possibility of civil unrest or military action);
- changes in general economic and business conditions;
- the possibility that government policies or laws may change or governmental approvals may be delayed or withheld; and
- results of the Company's risk mitigation strategies, including insurance and any hedging activities.
The foregoing list of risk factors is not exhaustive. Additional information on these and other factors, which could affect the Company's operations or financial results are included in the Company's most recent Annual Information Form. In addition, information is available in the Company's other reports on file with Canadian securities regulatory authorities and the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Forward-looking information is based on the estimates and opinions of the Company's management at the time the information is presented. The Company assumes no obligation to update forward-looking information should circumstances or management's estimates or opinions change, except as required by law.
Reserves Information
Talisman's disclosure of reserves data and other oil and gas information is made in reliance on an exemption granted to Talisman by Canadian securities regulatory authorities, which permits Talisman to provide certain disclosure in accordance with US disclosure requirements. The primary differences between the US disclosure requirements and the Canadian disclosure standards under National Instrument 51-101 ("NI 51-101") are that (i) SEC rules require disclosure only of proved reserves, whereas NI 51-101 requires disclosure of proved and probable reserves (ii) SEC rules require reserves to be cash flow positive on an undiscounted basis, whereas NI 51-101 requires reserves to show a hurdle rate of return; and (iii) SEC rules require that reserves and the associated future net revenue be estimated using historic average annual prices, whereas NI 51-101 requires disclosure of reserves and the associated future net revenue using forecast prices. The information provided by Talisman in this news release may differ from the corresponding information prepared in accordance with NI 51-101 standards. Talisman's proved and probable reserves, using SEC annual average pricing methodology, have been estimated using the standards contained in Regulation S-X of the SEC, which requires that proved and probable reserves be estimated using existing economic and operating conditions. US practice is to disclose net reserves after the deduction of estimated royalty burdens. Talisman makes additional voluntary disclosure of gross reserves.
The exemption granted to Talisman also permits it to disclose internally evaluated reserves data. Any reserves data contained in this news release reflects Talisman's estimates of its reserves. No independent qualified reserves evaluator or auditor was involved in the preparation of the reserves data disclosed in this news release.
Reserves Replacement Ratio
The reserves replacement ratios (before net acquisitions and dispositions) were calculated by dividing the sum of changes (revisions of estimates and discoveries) to estimated gross proved oil and gas reserves during 2009 by the Company's 2009 gross production. The Company's management uses reserves replacement ratios as an indicator of the Company's ability to replenish annual production volumes and grow its reserves. It should be noted that a reserves replacement ratio is a statistical indicator that has limitations. As an annual measure, the ratio is limited because it typically varies widely, based on the extent and timing of new discoveries, project sanctioning and property acquisitions. Its predictive and comparative value is also limited for the same reasons. In addition, since the ratio does not include cost, value or timing of future production of new reserves, it cannot be used as a measure of value creation.
Reserve Replacement Costs
In this news release, Talisman discloses reserve replacement costs. Reserve replacement costs are used by the Company to determine the cost of reserves additions in a period. Talisman's reported reserves replacement costs may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies. Reserves replacement costs may not reflect full cycle reserves replacement costs. Reserves replacement costs' predictive and comparative value is limited for the aforementioned reasons. Reserves replacement costs are calculated by dividing exploration and development capital spending (including discontinued operations, but excluding midstream) by proved reserve additions (excluding price revisions). The reserves replacement cost in 2008 was $42.87/boe and in 2007 was $33.69/boe. The average reserves replacement cost for 2009, 2008, and 2007 was $32.38/boe.
Netbacks
Talisman also discloses its Company netbacks in this news release. Netbacks per boe are calculated by deducting from sales price associated royalties, operating and transportation costs.
Gross Production
Throughout this news release, Talisman makes reference to production volumes. Such production volumes are stated on a gross basis, which means they are stated prior to the deduction of royalties and similar payments. In the US, net production volumes are reported after the deduction of these amounts. US readers may refer to the table headed "Continuity of Proved Net Reserves" in Talisman's most recent Annual Information Form for a statement of Talisman's net production volumes by reporting segment that are comparable to those made by US companies subject to SEC reporting and disclosure requirements.
Boe Conversion
Throughout this news release, barrels of oil equivalent (boe) is calculated at a conversion rate of six thousand cubic feet (mcf) of natural gas for one barrel of oil and is based on an energy equivalence conversion method. Boes may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. A boe conversion ratio of 6 mcf:1 bbl is based on an energy equivalence conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead.
Canadian Dollars and GAAP
Dollar amounts are presented in Canadian dollars, except where otherwise indicated. Unless otherwise indicated, the financial information is set out in accordance with Canadian GAAP which may differ from U.S. GAAP.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
Included in this news release are references to financial measures used in the oil and gas industry such as cash flow, earnings from continuing operations and net debt. These terms are not defined by GAAP in either Canada or the U.S. Consequently, these are referred to as non-GAAP measures. Talisman's reported results of cash flow, earnings from continuing operations and net debt may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies. Cash flow represents net income before exploration costs, DD&A, future taxes and other non-cash expenses. Cash flow is used by the Company to assess operating results between years and between peer companies using different accounting policies. Cash flow should not be considered an alternative to, or more meaningful than, cash provided by operating, investing and financing activities or net income as determined in accordance with Canadian GAAP as an indicator of the Company's performance or liquidity. Cash flow per share is cash flow divided by the average number of common shares outstanding during the period. A reconciliation of cash provided by operating activities to cash flow follows.
Cash Flow
December 31, 2009
C$ million, except per share amounts
Three Months
ended Year ended
December 31 2009 2008 2009 2008
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash provided by operating activities 624 1,569 3,599 6,154
Changes in non-cash working capital 297 (4) 362 9
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash flow 921 1,565 3,961 6,163
Cash provided by discontinued
operations (1) 9 (71) (85) (465)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash flow from continuing operations 930 1,494 3,876 5,698
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash flow per share 0.91 1.54 3.90 6.06
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash flow from continuing operations per
share 0.92 1.47 3.82 5.59
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 Comparatives restated for operations classified as discontinued during
2009.
Earnings from continuing operations are calculated by adjusting the Company's net income per the financial statements, for certain items of a non-operational nature, on an after tax basis. The Company uses this information to evaluate performance of core operational activities on a comparable basis between periods. Earnings from continuing operations per share are earnings from continuing operations divided by the average number of common shares outstanding during the period. A reconciliation of net income to earnings from continuing operations follows.
Earnings from Continuing Operations
December 31, 2009
C$ million, except per share amounts
Three Months
ended Year ended
December 31, 2009 2008(6) 2009 2008(6)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net income (loss) from continuing
operations (190) 1,162 (708) 3,122
Unrealized (gain) loss on financial
instruments (1) (tax adjusted) 173 (805) 1,056 (877)
Additional DD&A expense (2) (tax
adjusted) - 225 - 225
Stock-based compensation expense
(recovery)(3) (tax adjusted) 20 (26) 198 (56)
Restructuring charges (tax adjusted) 14 - 14 -
Future tax rate changes 21 - 21 -
Future tax charge (recovery) of
unrealized foreign exchange
(losses) on net foreign denominated
debt (4) 38 (54) 59 (84)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Earnings from continuing operations (5) 76 502 640 2,330
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Per share(5) 0.07 0.49 0.63 2.29
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 Unrealized losses on financial instruments relate to the change in the
period of the mark-to-market value of the company's held-for-trading
financial instruments.
2 Additional DD&A expense relates to properties in the UK and Norway that
had no proved reserves at 2008 year-end prices. The net book value of
these properties was charged to DD&A expense in the fourth quarter of
2008.
3 Stock-based compensation expense relates to the mark-to-market value of
the company's outstanding stock options and cash units at December 31.
The company's stock-based compensation expense is based on the
difference between the company's share price and its stock options or
cash units exercise price.
4 Tax adjustment reflects future taxes relating to unrealized foreign
exchange gains and losses associated with the impact of fluctuations in
the Canadian dollar on net foreign denominated debt.
5 This is a non-GAAP measure. Refer to the section in this news release
entitled Non-GAAP Measures for further explanation and details.
6 Comparatives restated for operations classified as discontinued in
2009.
Net debt is calculated by adjusting the Company's long-term debt per the financial statements for bank indebtedness and cash and cash equivalents. The Company uses this information to assess its true debt position and eliminate the impact of timing differences.
Net Debt
December 31, 2009
$ million
Year ended
December 31, 2009 2008
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Long-term debt (including current portion) 3,780 3,961
Bank indebtedness 36 81
Cash and cash equivalents (1,690) (91)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net debt 2,126 3,951
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Talisman Energy Inc.
Highlights
(unaudited)
Three months Year
ended ended
December 31 December 31
2009 2008 2009 2008
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Financial
(C$ million unless otherwise
stated)
Cash flow (1) 921 1,565 3,961 6,163
Net income (loss) (111) 1,202 437 3,519
Capital expenditures 1,436 1,558 4,080 4,872
Per common share (C$)
Cash flow (1) 0.91 1.54 3.90 6.06
Net income (loss) (0.11) 1.18 0.43 3.46
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Production
(daily average)
Oil and liquids (mbbls/d)
North America 29 41 34 40
UK 79 96 86 94
Scandinavia 38 34 34 33
Southeast Asia 43 35 41 36
Other 14 21 16 21
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total oil and liquids 203 227 211 224
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Natural gas (mmcf/d)
North America 787 828 803 856
UK 13 41 19 38
Scandinavia 100 19 58 19
Southeast Asia 420 340 403 334
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total natural gas 1,320 1,228 1,283 1,247
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total mboe/d (2) 423 432 425 432
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Prices (3)
Oil and liquids (C$/bbl)
North America 64.24 51.78 54.96 85.52
UK 78.78 58.10 68.36 98.35
Scandinavia 77.61 59.08 69.73 99.23
Southeast Asia 84.26 36.64 71.17 97.63
Other 100.59 53.50 74.03 102.51
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total oil and liquids 79.18 53.36 67.36 96.43
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Natural gas (C$/mcf)
North America 4.86 7.23 4.70 8.66
UK 4.41 10.62 4.73 9.78
Scandinavia 4.99 8.44 5.86 7.16
Southeast Asia 7.19 6.53 6.40 9.94
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total natural gas 5.61 7.17 5.29 9.01
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total (C$/boe) (2) 55.51 48.45 49.40 76.03
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) Cash flow and cash flow per share are non-GAAP measures.
(2) Barrels of oil equivalent (boe) is calculated at a conversion rate of
six thousand cubic feet (mcf) of natural gas for one barrel of oil.
(3) Prices are before hedging.
Includes the results from continuing and discontinued operations.
Talisman Energy Inc.
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(unaudited)
December 31 (C$ million) 2009 2008
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(restated)
Assets
Current
Cash and cash equivalents 1,690 91
Accounts receivable 1,293 2,419
Inventories 144 181
Prepaid expenses 9 17
Assets of discontinued operations 18 220
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
3,154 2,928
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other assets 290 235
Goodwill 1,238 1,248
Property, plant and equipment 18,914 18,540
Assets of discontinued operations 22 1,324
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
20,464 21,347
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total assets 23,618 24,275
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Liabilities
Current
Bank indebtedness 36 81
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 2,130 1,875
Income and other taxes payable 357 468
Current portion of long-term debt 10 -
Future income taxes 68 300
Liabilities of discontinued operations - 94
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
2,601 2,818
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deferred credits 59 51
Asset retirement obligations 2,183 1,939
Other long-term obligations 168 173
Long-term debt 3,770 3,961
Future income taxes 3,720 4,007
Liabilities of discontinued operations 6 176
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
9,906 10,307
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholders' equity
Common shares, no par value
Authorized: unlimited
Issued and outstanding:
2009 - 1,015 million (2008 - 1,015 million) 2,374 2,372
Contributed surplus 153 84
Retained earnings 9,174 8,966
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (590) (272)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
11,111 11,150
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity 23,618 24,275
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Prior period balances have been restated to reflect the financial position
of discontinued operations.
Talisman Energy Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Income and Loss
(unaudited)
Three months Year
ended ended
December 31 December 31
(C$ million) 2009 2008 2009 2008
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(restated) (restated)
Revenue
Gross sales 2,180 2,120 7,528 11,275
Hedging loss - - - (28)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gross sales, net of hedging 2,180 2,120 7,528 11,247
Less royalties 381 372 1,155 2,001
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net sales 1,799 1,748 6,373 9,246
Other 26 25 115 112
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total revenue 1,825 1,773 6,488 9,358
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses
Operating 498 524 1,997 1,967
Transportation 64 44 222 207
General and administrative 88 97 334 294
Depreciation, depletion and
amortization 677 1,186 2,674 2,890
Dry hole 204 220 584 492
Exploration 100 158 301 429
Interest on long-term debt 49 43 192 168
Stock-based compensation (recovery) 42 (36) 290 (73)
(Gain) loss on held-for-trading
financial instruments 142 (1,695) 412 (1,664)
Other, net 23 (49) 48 (179)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total expenses 1,887 492 7,054 4,531
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income (loss) from continuing
operations before taxes (62) 1,281 (566) 4,827
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Taxes
Current income tax 253 249 720 1,375
Future income tax (recovery) (174) (146) (686) 154
Petroleum revenue tax 49 16 108 176
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
128 119 142 1,705
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net income (loss) from continuing
operations (190) 1,162 (708) 3,122
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net income from discontinued operations 79 40 1,145 397
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net income (loss) (111) 1,202 437 3,519
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Per common share (C$):
Net income (loss) from continuing
operations (0.19) 1.14 (0.70) 3.07
Diluted net income (loss) from
continuing operations (0.19) 1.13 (0.70) 3.02
Net income from discontinued
operations 0.07 0.04 1.12 0.39
Diluted net income from discontinued
operations 0.07 0.04 1.12 0.38
Net income (loss) (0.11) 1.18 0.43 3.46
Diluted net income (loss) (0.11) 1.17 0.43 3.40
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average number of common shares
outstanding (millions) 1,015 1,015 1,015 1,017
Diluted number of common shares
outstanding (millions) 1,015 1,025 1,015 1,034
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Prior period balances have been restated to reflect the results of
discontinued operations.
Talisman Energy Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(unaudited)
Three months ended Year ended
December 31 December 31
(C$ million) 2009 2008 2009 2008
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(restated) (restated)
Operating
Net income (loss) from continuing
operations (190) 1,162 (708) 3,122
Items not involving cash 1,020 174 4,283 2,147
Exploration 100 158 301 429
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
930 1,494 3,876 5,698
Changes in non-cash working capital (297) 4 (362) (9)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash provided by continuing
operations 633 1,498 3,514 5,689
Cash provided by (used in)
discontinued operations (9) 71 85 465
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash provided by operating activities 624 1,569 3,599 6,154
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investing
Capital expenditures
Exploration, development and other (1,436) (1,558) (4,080) (4,872)
Property acquisitions (32) 3 (310) (436)
Proceeds of resource property
dispositions 96 8 200 47
Changes in non-cash working capital 139 231 (18) 244
Discontinued operations, net of
capital expenditures 492 (78) 2,341 43
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash used in investing activities (741) (1,394) (1,867) (4,974)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Financing
Long-term debt repaid - (739) (970) (3,869)
Long-term debt issued 12 551 1,261 2,425
Common shares purchased 1 - 1 1
Acquisition of common shares for
performance share plan - - - (68)
Common share dividends (114) (102) (229) (204)
Deferred credits and other (24) (4) (10) 8
Changes in non-cash working capital 3 (10) 4 (14)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash provided by (used in) financing
activities (122) (304) 57 (1,721)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Effect of translation on foreign
currency cash and cash equivalents (41) 8 (133) 32
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and
cash equivalents (280) (121) 1,656 (509)
Cash and cash equivalents net of bank
indebtedness, beginning of period 1,948 133 12 521
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash and cash equivalents net of bank
indebtedness, end of period 1,668 12 1,668 12
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash and cash equivalents 1,690 91 1,690 91
Cash and c
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