10-QPeriod: Q2 FY2005

EXXON MOBIL CORP Quarterly Report for Q2 Ended Jun 30, 2005

Filed August 4, 2005For Securities:XOM

Summary

Exxon Mobil Corporation (XOM) reported strong financial results for the second quarter and first half of 2005, driven by favorable crude oil and natural gas prices. Net income for the second quarter of 2005 reached $7.64 billion, a significant increase from $5.79 billion in the prior year period. For the first six months of 2005, net income was $15.5 billion, up 38% from $11.23 billion in the corresponding period of 2004. These results were bolstered by strong performance across all segments, particularly Upstream and Downstream operations, with Non-U.S. Upstream earnings showing substantial growth. The company's financial health is robust, evidenced by a substantial increase in cash and cash equivalents, reaching $30.3 billion by the end of the second quarter of 2005. Capital expenditures remained high, reflecting ongoing investment in growth projects. While the company faced some litigation provisions, including a $200 million charge for the Allapattah lawsuit, the overall financial performance indicates a strong operational and market position.

Key Highlights

  • 1Record net income of $7.64 billion in Q2 2005 and $15.5 billion for the first six months of 2005, representing a 38% increase year-over-year for the half.
  • 2Upstream earnings significantly increased, driven by strong crude and natural gas prices, despite a slight decrease in production.
  • 3Downstream segment also saw robust performance with improved refining margins and higher throughput.
  • 4Chemical segment earnings rose due to improved margins, partially offset by lower volumes.
  • 5Total cash and cash equivalents, including restricted cash, reached $30.3 billion at the end of Q2 2005, indicating strong liquidity.
  • 6Capital expenditures for the first six months of 2005 totaled $7.95 billion, with an expectation of around $17 billion for the full year.
  • 7The company repurchased approximately 64.2 million shares in Q2 2005, with plans to increase share buybacks.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary drivers were significantly higher crude oil and natural gas prices, which boosted Upstream earnings. Improved refining margins and higher throughput in the Downstream segment also contributed positively. Stronger chemical margins, despite slightly lower volumes, further supported overall earnings growth.

While commodity prices were favorable, overall production saw a decrease. In the Upstream segment, liquids production was down 115 kbd and natural gas production decreased, primarily due to mature field declines, maintenance activities, and divestment impacts. However, higher production in certain regions like West Africa and Qatar partially offset these declines. The company is continuing to invest in capital and exploration to support future volume growth.

ExxonMobil is actively returning capital to shareholders. In Q2 2005, they purchased approximately 64.2 million shares, with a significant portion aimed at reducing outstanding shares. The company plans to increase share buybacks to $5.0 billion in the third quarter of 2005. This reflects a continued strengthening of its financial position and a commitment to enhancing shareholder value.

ExxonMobil is involved in various legal proceedings. A notable item mentioned is a $200 million provision in Q2 2005 for the Allapattah lawsuit. Other significant legal matters include ongoing appeals related to the Exxon Valdez case and a large punitive damages award in Alabama, for which the company has posted significant collateral. While the company states it does not believe the ultimate outcome of any pending lawsuit will have a materially adverse effect, these contingent liabilities are substantial and are being closely monitored.