What were the primary drivers of Occidental's improved financial performance in the first quarter of 2008?

The primary drivers were significantly higher worldwide oil and gas prices and an 8% increase in oil and gas production, largely attributed to the start-up of the Dolphin Project. Higher chemical prices and improved margins in caustic soda also contributed positively.

Did Occidental engage in any significant acquisitions or divestitures during the quarter?

Yes, in February 2008, Occidental purchased a 50-percent interest in oil and gas properties in the Permian Basin and Colorado for approximately $1.5 billion in cash. The filing does not highlight any significant divestitures in the first quarter of 2008.

What is the company's outlook for capital expenditures and how is it being funded?

Occidental currently expects to spend approximately $4.0 billion on its 2008 capital spending program. The company believes that cash on hand and cash generated from operations will be sufficient to fund its operating needs, capital expenditure requirements, dividend payments, and anticipated acquisitions.

What is the company's exposure to environmental liabilities, and how is it being managed?

Occidental has established reserves for environmental remediation totaling $451 million at March 31, 2008, across various categories of sites. The company acknowledges the possibility of incurring additional liabilities beyond those accrued, with a reasonably possible range of loss up to an additional $440 million. Management currently does not anticipate these matters to have a material adverse effect on the company's financial position or results of operations.

OXY/OXY-WT 10-Q Quarterly Report Q1 FY2008

Summary

Occidental Petroleum Corporation (OXY) reported a strong first quarter in 2008, with net income soaring to $1.85 billion from $1.21 billion in the prior year period, driven by significantly higher oil and gas prices and increased production. Net sales also saw a substantial jump to $6.02 billion, up from $4.02 billion in Q1 2007. This performance reflects the company's successful upstream operations benefiting from a favorable commodity price environment. The company also highlighted a significant acquisition in the Permian Basin, demonstrating its commitment to strategic growth in its core oil and gas business.

Key Highlights

1Net income increased by over 52% to $1.85 billion in Q1 2008 compared to $1.21 billion in Q1 2007.
2Net sales rose by approximately 50% to $6.02 billion in Q1 2008 from $4.02 billion in Q1 2007.
3Diluted earnings per share (EPS) improved significantly to $2.23 in Q1 2008 from $1.43 in Q1 2007.
4The company made a substantial acquisition in the Permian Basin and Colorado for approximately $1.5 billion in February 2008.
5Oil and gas segment earnings increased substantially, driven by higher commodity prices and an 8% increase in oil and gas production.
6The company repurchased approximately 6.3 million shares of common stock in the first quarter of 2008 for $436 million.

OCCIDENTAL PETROLEUM CORP /DE/ Quarterly Report for Q1 Ended Mar 31, 2008

Summary

Key Highlights

Frequently Asked Questions