SM Energy (NYSE: SM) reported Q2 EPS of $0.15, $0.07 better than the analyst estimate of $0.08.

• RockStar wells continue to produce best in class results. Spackler Wolfcamp A sets SM record as its top performing Midland Basin well to-date with a peak 30-day IP rate of 2,324 Boe/d. 24 new RockStar wells reached peak 30-day IP rates that averaged 1,330 Boe/d per well (87% oil) from three intervals
• Production exceeded guidance range. 115 MBoe/d average production, 42% oil. Midland Basin production from retained assets was up 14% sequentially and 117% year-over-year. Full year production guidance raised ~3,700 Boe/d at the mid-point
• Rapid margin expansion. $24.44 per Boe operating margin (pre-hedge) was the highest in 15 quarters, up 6% sequentially and up 110% year-over-year
• Strong earnings. Net income was $17.2 million; EPS was $0.15 and adjusted EPS was $0.15, per diluted common share; net cash provided by operating activities (GAAP) was $171.4 million and adjusted EBITDAX was $225.0 million (adjusted EPS and adjusted EBITDAX are non-GAAP measures; see below for additional information)
• Significant reduction in long-term debt. $345 million in 6.5% senior notes due 2021 redeemed subsequent to quarter-end, following the closing of two non-core divestitures for an aggregate sales price of $292 million

MANAGEMENT COMMENTARY

President and Chief Executive Officer Jay Ottoson comments: "In the first half of 2018, we made significant improvements in capital efficiency and operating margins as a result of outstanding operations execution and great well results. Our cash flows have been higher than anticipated, and we are raising full year production guidance without changing our expected full year activity level. We remain on track to meet our targeted total capital spend-to-cash flow neutrality by mid-year 2019."

For earnings history and earnings-related data on SM Energy (SM) click here.