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WWW.PINECLIFFENERGY.COM
Long‐term Value Focus
Annual Report 2017
MESSAGE TO SHAREHOLDERS
2017
2017 was a record year for Pine Cliff in both revenue and funds flow from operations. The following are our highlights for the
past quarter and the 2017 year:
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generated $3.8 million of funds flow from operations ($0.01 per basic share) for the three months ended December 31,
2017;
generated a record annual $28.7 million ($0.09 per basic share) of funds flow from operations during the year ended
December 31, 2017, compared to $19.7 million of funds flow from operations ($0.06 per basic share) during the year
ended December 31, 2016, an increase of $9.0 million and 46%;
generated a record annual total revenue of $115.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, an increase of 4%
compared to $111.1 million during the year ended December 31, 2016;
achieved average production of 21,489 Boe/d (95% natural gas) in the fourth quarter of 2017, slightly lower than the
21,525 Boe/d in the fourth quarter of 2016, despite incurring only $6.4 million of drilling and recompletion capital
spending in 2017, representing only 22% of annual funds flow from operations, highlighting the importance of having
one of the lowest decline rates in the industry;
reduced bank debt by $12.9 million or 42% during the year ended December 31, 2017, ending the year with bank debt
of $18.0 million, our lowest bank debt level at year end in four years. The decrease in bank debt resulted in interest and
bank charges, net of dividend income, of $0.40 per Boe this past quarter, 53% lower than the $0.75 per Boe in the fourth
quarter of 2016;
ended 2017 with $53.7 million in net debt, our lowest net debt level at year end in four years, which is $10.5 million or
16% less than the 2016 net debt level of $64.2 million;
reduced net-debt-to-funds flow from operations by 42% from 3.3 as at December 31, 2016 to 1.9 as at December 31,
2017; and
entered into a long-term firm transportation agreement for approximately 11,000 Mcf per day of production to the Dawn
natural gas market that commenced November 1, 2017.
Commodity Risk Management
Pine Cliff’s operations and marketing teams have spent a considerable amount of time in the past few months expanding our sales
delivery points to access higher natural gas prices outside of Alberta. The Dawn market commitment was one of those initiatives.
In addition, we focused attention on utilizing our own infrastructure to move more gas to Empress and into Saskatchewan to
access delivery points at TransGas. We expect Q1 2018 sales volume deliveries will be approximately 56% AECO, 16% TransGas,
9% Dawn, 7% Empress, 7% Montana and 5% oil and liquids. Due to the recent completion of pipeline and compression
optimization projects though, we expect sales volume deliveries will average 46% AECO, 22% TransGas, 10% Empress, 9%
Dawn, 7% Montana and 6% oil and liquids from Q2 2018 through the remainder of the year.
Other than the Dawn market agreement, we are not committed to long term deliveries into these other markets and can return the
production to the AECO market if prices justify it. We think this flexibility will prove valuable as different market hubs face
different pricing pressures in the future. The fact that Pine Cliff owns three NEB pipelines taking gas out of Alberta has proven
to be quite strategic during these volatile times.
Outlook
Despite the AECO daily natural gas price averaging $0.74/Mcf in October, the lowest monthly AECO price in over 10 years,
and $1.68/Mcf for the fourth quarter, AECO prices have been better than we expected for the first 10 weeks of 2018 due to
colder weather across North America. The forward strip pricing for the remainder of 2018 however is still relatively weak with
an average strip price of $1.41 Mcf. We continue to focus our activities on reducing costs to improve margins and getting better
prices for our products. Our efforts in the past few months to mitigate exposure to AECO pricing is another example of that.
The current low forecast in gas prices in Western Canada is primarily due to an oversupply of natural gas combined with restricted
pipeline access to Eastern and Southern markets. We believe that the latter issue will be resolved over the next few years as pipeline
companies move ahead with various expansion plans. We also do not believe the oversupply issue is a long term concern as we
are already seeing natural gas rig deployment drop in Western Canada as producers react to the lower natural gas prices. We predict
that the impact of those budget decisions will start to show up later this year as natural production declines are not met with the
same level of new production that we saw in 2017.
MESSAGE TO SHAREHOLDERS
2017
For those of you who have been shareholders with us for a while, you know we have always lived within our cash flow, rather than
pursue unprofitable production growth. Due to the restrictions on capital our industry is currently facing, we are now witnessing
more companies sharing the same strategy of “living within cash flow” that we have employed since 2012. I personally believe that
this return to prudent behaviour will serve our industry well and will attract investors back to the energy sector as companies show
better returns on capital employed.
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Global natural gas demand continues to grow in almost every jurisdiction it is used, especially in developing nations where energy
demand growth is the greatest. LNG export terminals continue to get built in North America, and this will continue to narrow the
price differentials that currently exist between North America and the rest of the world. I remain bullish on owning shares in a
natural gas company based in Western Canada like Pine Cliff and am confident we will see increasing natural gas prices in the near
future.
It has been frustrating to see our share price drop along with the rest of our industry peers, but we have conviction that if we
continue to run the business with a focus on positive cash generation, our efforts will eventually be acknowledged by the markets
with a higher share price. The fourth quarter of 2017 was the 23rd quarter out of the last 24 quarters where we have delivered
positive funds flow, and we have managed through a tremendous amount of price volatility in those six years. We will continue
to focus on controlling the variables we can control and that are critical to our sustainable business model.
We thank you for your continued patience and support as our team continues to work towards our goal of delivering long term
value to our shareholders.
Yours truly,
Phil Hodge
President and Chief Executive Officer
March 13, 2018
Please refer to the attached Management’s Discussion and Analysis for Reader Advisories regarding forward-looking information, non-GAAP measures and oil and gas
measurements and definitions. This President’s Message should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements of Pine Cliff Energy Ltd. together with
Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the period ended December 31, 2017, which can be found on www.sedar.com and is subject to the same cautionary statements as set out
therein.
RESERVES INFORMATION
2017
RESERVES INFORMATION
McDaniel & Associates Consultants Limited (“McDaniel”) was engaged to prepare evaluations of the reserves of Pine Cliff Energy Ltd.
(the “Company”) at December 31, 2017. The evaluations of petroleum and natural gas reserves were conducted in accordance with
National Instrument 51‐101 Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities (“NI 51‐101”) with the effective date of December 31,
2017. The gross reserves in the following tables represent Pine Cliff’s ownership interest before royalties and before consideration of
the Company’s royalty interest reserves. As defined in NI 51‐101, proved reserves are those reserves that can be estimated with a high
degree of certainty to be recoverable. It is likely that the actual remaining quantities recovered will exceed the estimated proved
reserves. Probable reserves are those additional reserves that are less certain to be recovered than proved reserves. It is equally likely
that the actual remaining quantities recovered will be greater or less than the sum of the estimated proved plus probable reserves.
Tables may not add due to rounding.
Where amounts are expressed on a Boe basis, natural gas volumes have been converted to oil equivalence at six Mcf per one Bbl.
Where amounts are expressed in Mcfe, natural gas liquids and oil volumes are converted to one Mcfe using the same ratio. The terms
Boe and Mcfe may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. This conversion ratio is based on an energy equivalency conversion
method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead.
Highlights of Pine Cliff’s reserves for the 2017 year include:
Positive technical revisions of 6.7 MMBOE on a total proved plus probable basis;
Prior to adjusting for 2017 production, total positive net changes to proved reserves were 5.1 MMBOE (9%), largely a result
of improved well performance and a successful well recompletion program;
Remaining proved reserves of 51.1 MMBOE (95% natural gas) at December 31, 2017, decreased by 2.7 MMBOE (5%) from
53.8 MMBOE (94% natural gas) at December 31, 2016;
Prior to adjusting for 2017 production, total positive net changes to proved plus probable reserves were 4.1 MMBOE, largely
a result of improved well performance;
Remaining proved plus probable reserves of 67.2 MMBOE (94% natural gas) at December 31, 2017 decreased by 3.7 MMBOE
(5%) from 70.9 MMBOE (94% natural gas) at December 31, 2016;
Approximately 76% of total reserves are classified as proved reserves and 24% are classified as probable reserves;
Approximately 98% of proved reserves are classified as proved developed producing;
Net present value for proved plus probable reserves of $240.1 million, discounted at 10%, a decrease of $106.8 million, or
31%, from December 31, 2016, mainly as a result of decreases in the future natural gas price deck; and
In line with Pine Cliff’s historical acquisition focus rather than drilling existing reserves, the McDaniel reserve report reflects
a conservative future development capital program of $69.3 million over the next five years.
Summary of Remaining Working Interest Reserves, as of December 31, 2017
Reserve Category
Proved
Light, Medium and
Heavy Oil
Natural Gas and
CBM
MBbl
MMcf
Natural Gas
Liquids
MBbl
BOE
MBOE
Developed Producing
432.5
282,598.1
2,418.5
49,950.7
Developed Non‐Producing
‐
456.1
19.5
95.5
Undeveloped
Total Proved
Probable
31.6
5,054.3
152.7
1,026.7
464.1
288,108.5
2,590.7
51,072.9
207.2
89,323.0
1,050.9
16,145.3
Total Proved plus Probable
671.3
377,431.5
3,641.6
67,218.2
3
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
Summary of Net Present Values of Future Net Revenue, Before Income Taxes, as of December 31, 20171
RESERVES INFORMATION
2017
Discounted at (% per year)
0%
5%
10%
15%
($millions)
Reserve Category
Proved
Developed Producing
170.2
181.4
171.6
157.1
Developed Non‐Producing
0.7
0.7
0.6
0.6
Undeveloped
Total Proved
Probable
10.8
7.0
4.7
3.2
181.7
189.1
176.9
160.9
149.9
96.7
63.2
42.2
Total Proved plus Probable
331.6
285.8
240.1
203.1
1 Includes abandonment and reclamation costs.
Reconciliation of Gross Reserves by Principal Product Type, as of December 31, 2017
Light, Medium, and Heavy
Oil and Natural Gas Liquids
Natural Gas and Coal Bed
Methane
BOE
Proved
(MBbl)
Proved plus
Probable
(MBbl)
Proved
(MMcf)
Proved
plus
Probable
(MMcf)
Proved
(MBOE)
Proved plus
Probable
(MBOE)
December 31, 2016
3,377.6
4,496.2
302,540.7 398,635.5
53,801.1
70,935.6
Extension
272.1
382.7
3,889.1
5,391.7
920.3
1,281.3
Technical Revisions
(143.5)
(104.1)
45,432.3
40,806.4
7,434.1
6,697.0
Acquisitions
30.7
31.2
1,692.9
2,067.0
307.4
375.7
Change in Working Interest
33.3
29.0
2,664.8
2,651.1
477.4
470.9
Economic Factors
(104.5)
(111.2)
(23,683.9)
(27,692.8)
(4,051.8)
(4,726.7)
Total Changes
Production
88.1
227.5
29,995.2
23,223.5
5,087.4
4,098.3
(410.9)
(410.9)
(44,427.4)
(44,427.4)
(7,815.6)
(7,815.6)
December 31, 2017
3,054.8
4,312.9
288,108.5 377,431.5
51,072.9
67,218.2
Finding, Development and Acquisition (“FD&A”) Costs 1
Pine Cliff has been developing its asset base, primarily through acquisitions. Over the past three years, the Company has incurred the
following FD&A costs, including changes in future development capital:
$/Boe
Proved Reserves
Proved plus probable reserves
$/Mcfe
Proved Reserves
2017(1)
2016(2)
2015(1)
3 year average(1)
4.58
6.29
0.76
0.01
0.33
0.00
5.36
4.58
0.89
3.60
3.50
0.60
Proved plus probable reserves
0.58
1.05
1 FD&A costs, including changes in future development capital, are calculated as the aggregate of development capital plus acquisition capital, net of
dispositions, plus the change in future development capital for the period divided by the change in total reserves for the period, excluding production.
2 FD&A costs, including changes in future development capital, are calculated as the aggregate of development capital plus acquisition capital and
excluding disposition capital plus the change in future development capital divided by the change in total reserves for the period, excluding
dispositions and production.
0.05
0.76
4
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
RESERVES INFORMATION
2017
Pine Cliff has incurred the following FD&A costs, excluding changes in future development capital:
$/Boe
Proved Reserves
Proved plus probable reserves
$/Mcfe
Proved Reserves
2017(3)
2016(4)
2015(3)
3 year average(3)
2.55
3.17
0.43
1.86
2.94
0.31
5.26
4.14
0.88
3.46
3.00
0.58
Proved plus probable reserves
0.50
0.53
3 FD&A costs, excluding changes in future development capital, are calculated as the aggregate of development capital plus acquisition capital, net of
dispositions for the period divided by the change in total reserves for the period, excluding production.
4 FD&A costs, excluding changes in future development capital, are calculated as the aggregate of development capital plus acquisition capital and
excluding disposition capital dividend by the change in total reserves for the period, excluding dispositions and production.
0.49
0.69
Commodity Prices
The Commodity prices used in the above calculations of reserves are as follows:
Year WTI Oil (US$/Bbl)1
58.50
2018
58.70
2019
2020
62.40
69.00
2021
2022
73.10
2023‐2032
81.60
Thereafter
+2%/yr
$C to US$ Foreign
exchange rate1
1.27
1.27
1.25
1.21
1.18
1.18
1.18
1 Source: McDaniel Price forecasts, effective January 1, 2018
Edmonton Light Crude
Oil (Cdn$/Bbl) 1
70.10
71.30
74.90
80.50
82.80
AECO Gas
(Cdn$/MMBtu) 1
2.25
2.65
3.05
3.40
3.60
92.43 4.02
+2%/yr
+2%/yr
Please refer to the attached Management’s Discussion and Analysis for Reader Advisories regarding forward-looking information, non-GAAP measures and oil and gas measurements and
definitions. This Reserves Information should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements of Pine Cliff Energy Ltd. together with Management’s Discussion and
Analysis and Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2017, which can be found on www.sedar.com and is subject to the same cautionary statements as set out therein.
5
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
2017
INTRODUCTION
This Management’s Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) is a review of the operations and current financial position of Pine Cliff Energy
Ltd. (“Pine Cliff” or the “Company”) for the year ended December 31, 2017. This MD&A is dated and based on information available
as at March 13, 2018 and should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements for the years ended
December 31, 2017 and 2016 (“Financial Statements”). The Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with
International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) consistent with the International Accounting Standards Board using Generally
Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”). Additional information relating to the Company, including the Company’s Annual
Information Form, may be found on www.sedar.com and by visiting Pine Cliff’s website at www.pinecliffenergy.com.
Pine Cliff’s head office is based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Common shares of the Company are listed for trading on the Toronto Stock
Exchange (“TSX”) under the symbol “PNE”.
READER ADVISORIES
This MD&A contains financial measures that are not defined under IFRS and forward‐looking statements. Please refer to the sections
titled “NON‐GAAP MEASURES” and “FORWARD LOOKING INFORMATION”.
Other Measurements
All amounts herein are presented in Canadian dollars unless otherwise specified. All references to $CAD or $ are to Canadian dollars
and monetary references to $US are to United States dollars.
Natural gas liquids and oil volumes are recorded in barrels of oil (“Bbl”) and are converted to a thousand cubic feet equivalent (“Mcfe”)
using a ratio of one (1) Bbl to six (6) thousand cubic feet. Natural gas volumes recorded in thousand cubic feet (“Mcf”) are converted
to barrels of oil equivalent (“Boe”) using the ratio of six (6) thousand cubic feet to one (1) Bbl. This conversion ratio is based on energy
equivalence primarily at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. The terms Boe or Mcfe may be
misleading, particularly if used in isolation.
2017 AND FOURTH QUARTER 2017 HIGHLIGHTS
Highlights from 2017 and the fourth quarter of 2017 are as follows:
generated $3.8 million of funds flow from operations ($0.01 per basic share) for the three months ended December 31,
2017;
generated a record annual $28.7 million ($0.09 per basic share) of funds flow from operations during the year ended
December 31, 2017, compared to $19.7 million of funds flow from operations ($0.06 per basic share) during the year
ended December 31, 2016, an increase of $9.0 million and 46%;
generated a record annual total revenue of $115.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, an increase of 4%
compared to $111.1 million during the year ended December 31, 2016;
achieved average production of 21,489 Boe/d (95% natural gas) in the fourth quarter of 2017, slightly lower than the
21,525 Boe/d in the fourth quarter of 2016, despite incurring only $6.4 million of drilling and recompletion capital
spending in 2017, representing only 22% of annual funds flow from operations;
reduced bank debt by $12.9 million or 42% during the year ended December 31, 2017, ending the year with bank debt
of $18.0 million, the lowest bank debt level at year end in four years. The decrease in bank debt resulted in interest and
bank charges, net of dividend income, of $0.40 per Boe this past quarter, 53% lower than the $0.75 per Boe in the fourth
quarter of 2016;
ended 2017 with $53.7 million in net debt, the Company’s lowest net debt level at year end in four years, which is $10.5
million or 16% less than the 2016 net debt level of $64.2 million; and
reduced net‐debt‐to‐funds flow from operations by 42% from 3.3 as at December 31, 2016 to 1.9 as at December 31,
2017.
6
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
2017
SELECTED ANNUAL FINANCIAL INFORMATION
($000s, unless otherwise indicated)
FINANCIAL1
Oil and gas sales (before royalties)
Total revenue (net of royalties)
Cash flows from operating activities
Funds flow from operations2
Per share – Basic and Diluted ($/share)
Loss for the year
Per share – Basic and Diluted ($/share)
Total assets
Total non‐current financial liabilities
Total liabilities
Capital expenditures
Acquisitions
Dispositions
Net Debt2
Weighted average common shares outstanding (000s) ‐
Basic and Diluted
OPERATIONS
Production
Natural gas (Mcf/d)
Natural gas liquids (Bbl/d)
Crude oil (Bbl/d)
Total (Boe/d)
Total (Mcfe/d)
Realized commodity sales prices
Natural gas ($/Mcf)
Natural gas liquids ($/Boe)
Crude oil ($/Bbl)
Total ($/Boe)
Netback ($/Boe)
Operating netback2
Corporate netback2
Netback ($/Mcfe)
Operating netback2
Corporate netback2
Year ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015
120,981
115,076
25,009
28,705
0.09
(67,864)
(0.22)
405,228
29,307
276,135
13,477
(62)
(429)
53,638
307,076
121,718
924
198
21,408
128,448
2.30
43.81
57.17
15.48
4.88
3.68
0.81
0.61
118,642
111,052
22,489
19,741
0.06
(50,387)
(0.16)
491,897
40,086
296,139
9,159
(807)
(63,112)
64,224
306,329
124,906
924
753
22,495
134,970
2.13
32.53
37.41
14.41
4.08
2.39
0.68
0.40
78,593
74,167
20,768
25,818
0.11
(24,257)
(0.10)
640,775
155,938
406,368
7,259
193,065
‐
141,770
240,149
72,984
530
160
12,854
77,124
2.66
25.00
48.26
16.75
7.08
5.51
1.18
0.92
1 Includes results for acquisitions and excludes results for dispositions from the closing dates.
2 This is a non‐GAAP measure, see NON‐GAAP MEASURES for additional information.
7
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
2017
SENSITIVITIES
Pine Cliff’s results are sensitive to changes in the business environment in which it operates. The following chart shows the Company’s
sensitivity to key commodity price variables and interest rates on variable rate debt. The sensitivity calculations are performed
independently showing the effect of the change of one variable; all other variables are held constant.
Business environment sensitivities
Impact on annual funds flow from operations1
Crude oil price ‐ Edmonton Light ($/Bbl)2
Natural gas price ‐ AECO ($/Mcf)2
Change
$1.00
$0.10
$000s
299
4,217
$ per share3
0.00
0.01
Interest rate on variable rate debt4
1 This analysis does not adjust for changes in working capital and uses royalty rates from Q4 2017.
2 Pine Cliff has prepared this analysis using its Q4 2017 production volumes annualized for twelve months.
3 Based on the Q4 2017 basic weighted average shares outstanding.
4 Based on December 31, 2017 bank debt of $18.0 million, 2018 Notes, as defined herein, of $6.0 million, and 2018 Related Party Notes, as defined
herein, of $5.0 million, less cash of $1.1 million.
1.0%
0.00
279
QUARTERLY BENCHMARK PRICES
Pine Cliff’s financial results are influenced by fluctuations in commodity prices, including price differentials. The following table shows
select market benchmark average prices and foreign exchange rates in the last eight quarters to assist in understanding the volatility
in prices and foreign exchange rates that have impacted Pine Cliff’s business.
Q4‐2017 Q3‐2017
Q2‐2017
Q1‐2017 Q4‐2016 Q3‐2016
Q2‐2016 Q1‐2016
Natural gas
NYMEX (US$/Mmbtu)1
AECO Daily 5A (C$/Mcf) 2
Pine Cliff’ realized natural
gas price ($/Mcf)
Crude oil
WTI (US$/Bbl)
Edmonton Light (C$/Bbl)
Foreign exchange
2.91
1.68
1.98
2.98
1.45
1.63
3.13
2.77
2.80
3.25
2.68
2.83
2.95
3.08
2.93
2.78
2.31
2.33
1.95
1.39
1.32
2.05
1.82
1.94
55.40
68.98
48.20
56.65
48.28
61.87
51.91
63.91
49.29
61.61
44.94
54.71
45.59
54.71
33.45
40.69
US$/C$
1.305
1.250
1 Mmbtu is the abbreviation for millions of British thermal units. One Mcf of natural gas is approximately 1.02 Mmbtu.
2 AECO prices are quoted in $/Gigajoule. Price has been converted from $/GJ to $/Mcf by multiplying by 1.05.
1.270
1.334
1.320
1.340
1.289
1.375
In the three months ended December 31, 2017, the AECO daily benchmark was 45% lower compared to the same period of 2016,
primarily due to increased natural gas supply and limited takeaway capacity. The price realized by the Company for natural gas
production from Western Canada is determined primarily by the Alberta price hub AECO. Most of Pine Cliff’s natural gas production is
in Alberta with the remainder produced in Saskatchewan.
The average WTI benchmarks and Edmonton Light crude both increased by 12% in the three months ended December 31, 2017, as
compared to the same period in 2016, due to improved global demand and the reduction in global crude and product inventories.
Canadian crude prices are based upon refiner postings at Edmonton, Alberta and are linked to WTI through transportation tariffs to
common markets and the foreign exchange rate. Pine Cliff’s oil is sold at a discount to the Edmonton Light crude oil price as a result of
quality differences.
The supply and demand dynamics for certain NGL components such as ethane, propane, butane, and condensate in the recent past has
impacted the relationship between the price of NGLs and the price of oil. In the three months and year ended December 31, 2017, the
realized price of Pine Cliff’s NGL’s was $47.73 and $43.81, respectively, which was 69% and 70% of Edmonton Light.
8
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
2017
QUARTERLY TRENDS AND SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
($000s, unless otherwise
indicated)
FINANCIAL1
Total revenue
Cash flow from operating
activities
Funds flow from operations2
Funds flow from operations per
share – basic and diluted
($/share)2
Impairments
Earnings (loss)
Earnings (loss) per share – basic
and diluted ($/share)
Capital expenditures
Acquisitions
Dispositions
Net debt2
Weighted average common shares
outstanding:
Basic
Diluted
PRODUCTION VOLUMES
Natural gas (Mcf/d)
Natural gas liquids (Bbl/d)
Crude oil (Bbl/d)
Average sales volumes (Boe/d)
2017
2016
Q4
Q3
Q2
Q1
Q4
Q3
Q2
Q1
25,444
23,892
34,005
31,735
35,189
30,067
19,905
25,891
(4,350)
3,759
5,517
2,879
10,007
10,834
13,835
11,233
12,632
15,026
4,606
6,972
(4,371)
(3,655)
9,622
1,398
0.01
‐
(32,996)
0.01
17,800
(30,214)
(0.11)
3,091
44
(148)
53,638
(0.10)
3,318
(9)
(65)
53,377
0.04
‐
(2,118)
(0.01)
3,267
(97)
(216)
52,562
0.04
‐
(2,536)
(0.01)
3,801
‐
‐
58,930
0.05
4,648
3,210
0.02
‐
(11,558)
(0.01)
‐
(25,862)
0.00
‐
(16,177)
0.01
3,356
(1,029)
(33,032)
64,224
(0.04)
1,437
(603)
(5,378)
110,312
(0.08)
749
240
(24,702)
122,032
(0.05)
3,617
585
‐
143,587
307,076
307,076
307,076
307,076
307,076
307,076
307,076
307,076
306,977
307,095
306,878
306,878
305,928
305,928
305,512
305,512
122,304
880
225
21,489
124,450
998
123
21,863
119,410
912
263
21,077
120,677
903
198
21,214
120,540
833
602
21,525
125,082
871
803
22,521
124,966
933
886
22,647
129,085
1,060
723
23,297
Average sales volumes (Mcfe/d)
128,934
131,178
126,462
127,284
129,150
135,126
135,882
139,782
PRICES AND NETBACKS
Total oil and gas sales ($/Boe)
Operating netback ($/Boe)2
Corporate netback ($/Boe)2
Total oil and gas sales ($/Mcfe)
Operating netback ($/Mcfe)2
13.85
2.85
1.90
2.31
0.48
11.47
2.30
1.44
1.91
0.38
18.45
7.41
5.65
3.08
1.24
18.41
7.14
5.88
3.07
1.19
Corporate netback ($/Mcfe)2
0.98
1 Includes results for acquisitions and excludes results for dispositions from the closing dates.
2 This is a non‐GAAP measure, see NON‐GAAP MEASURES for additional information.
0.32
0.94
0.24
19.35
8.81
7.59
3.23
1.47
1.27
15.64
5.08
3.36
2.61
0.85
0.56
10.04
(0.02)
(1.76)
1.67
‐
(0.29)
12.84
2.68
0.66
2.14
0.45
0.11
Over the past eight quarters, Pine Cliff’s revenues, cash flow from operating activities, funds flow from operations, and earnings (losses)
have fluctuated primarily due to changes in commodity prices and sales volumes impacted from acquisitions and dispositions.
Earnings (losses) also fluctuate with non‐cash expenditures, including depletion, depreciation, impairments and deferred income
taxes. Selected highlights for the past eight quarters are presented below:
Sales volumes decreased from the first quarter of 2016 until the second quarter of 2017 mainly related to natural production
declines and dispositions in the third and fourth quarters of 2016. Average sales volumes increased in the third quarter of
2017 due to a successful recompletion program in the Central Area. Average sales volumes decreased in the fourth quarter
related to natural production declines.
Total revenue of $35.2 million in the fourth quarter of 2016 was the highest in the eight quarters presented due to higher
natural gas prices and higher production volumes related to the 2015 acquisitions, partially offset by decreased royalty
revenue related to the royalty disposition in June 2016, production decreases related to A December 2016 disposition, and
lower realized crude oil and natural gas prices. Revenues decreased in the second quarter of 2016 and from the fourth quarter
9
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
2017
of 2016 to the first quarter of 2017 as a result of lower commodity prices and lower sales volumes, but increased from the
first quarter of 2017 to the second quarter of 2017 related to increased commodity prices and lower royalty rates. Total
revenue increased from the third quarter of 2017 to the fourth quarter of 2017 mainly as a result of higher commodity prices.
Funds flow from operations of $15.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2016 was the highest in the eight quarters presented as
a result of the highest natural gas prices. Funds flow from operations decreased in the first and second quarters of 2017 from
the fourth quarter of 2016, as a result of lower natural gas prices and lower production volumes. Funds flow from operations
continued to decrease in the third quarter of 2017 compared to the second quarter of 2017 as a result of lower natural gas
prices, slightly offset by higher sales volumes. Funds flow from operations increased in the fourth quarter of 2017 compared
to the third quarter of 2017 as a result of higher natural gas prices, slightly offset by lower sales volumes.
Earnings of $3.2 million in the fourth quarter of 2016 was the highest in the eight quarters presented as a result of that quarter
having the highest natural gas price. Earnings (loss) decreased in the first and second quarters of 2017 compared to the
fourth quarter of 2016, primarily as a result of lower commodity and lower production volumes. Earnings (loss) continued
to decrease in the third quarter of 2017 compared to the second quarter of 2017, primarily as a result of impairment and
lower commodity prices, slightly offset by higher production volumes. Earnings (loss) decreased in the fourth quarter of 2017
compared to the third quarter of 2017, primarily as a result of a deferred income tax expense and a reduction of the deferred
tax asset.
10
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
2017
Three months ended December 31,
2016
2017
Year ended December 31,
2016
2017
($000s, unless otherwise indicated)
FINANCIAL1
Oil and gas sales (before royalty expense)
Cash flow from operating activities
Funds flow from operations2
Per share – Basic and Diluted ($/share)2
Earnings (loss)
Per share – Basic and Diluted ($/share)
Capital expenditures
Acquisitions
Dispositions
Net debt2
Weighted‐average common shares outstanding (000s)
Basic
Diluted
OPERATIONS
Production
Natural gas (Mcf/d)
Natural gas liquids (Bbl/d)
Crude oil (Bbl/d)
Total (Boe/d)
Realized commodity sales prices (before hedging)
Natural gas ($/Mcf)
Natural gas liquids ($/Boe)
Crude oil ($/Bbl)
Combined ($/Boe)
Netback ($/Boe)
Oil and gas sales
Realized hedging gain
Royalty income
Royalty expense
Transportation expenses
Operating expenses
Operating netback ($/Boe)2
General and administrative expenses
Interest and bank charges, net of dividend income
Corporate netback ($/Boe)2
27,377
(4,350)
3,759
0.01
(32,996)
(0.11)
3,091
44
(148)
53,638
38,316
12,632
15,026
0.05
3,210
0.01
3,356
(1,029)
(33,032)
64,224
307,076
307,076
306,977
307,095
122,304
880
225
21,489
120,540
833
602
21,525
1.98
47.73
62.41
13.85
13.85
0.65
‐
(1.06)
(1.34)
(9.25)
2.85
(0.55)
(0.40)
1.90
2.95
37.08
49.12
19.35
19.35
‐
‐
(1.59)
(0.77)
(8.18)
8.81
(0.47)
(0.75)
7.59
1.47
1.27
120,981
25,009
28,705
0.09
(67,864)
(0.22)
13,477
(62)
(429)
53,638
307,076
307,076
121,718
924
198
21,408
2.30
43.81
57.17
15.48
15.48
0.52
‐
(1.30)
(1.12)
(8.70)
4.88
(0.76)
(0.44)
3.68
0.81
0.61
118,642
22,489
19,741
0.06
(50,387)
(0.16)
9,159
(807)
(63,112)
64,224
306,329
306,329
124,906
924
753
22,495
2.13
32.53
37.41
14.41
14.41
‐
0.13
(1.07)
(0.98)
(8.41)
4.08
(0.85)
(0.84)
2.39
0.68
0.40
Operating netback ($ per Mcfe)2
Corporate netback ($ per Mcfe)2
1 Includes results for acquisitions and excludes results for dispositions from the closing dates.
2 This is a non‐GAAP measure, see NON‐GAAP MEASURES for additional information.
0.48
0.32
11
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
2017
SALES VOLUMES
Total sales volumes by product
2017
2016 % Change
2017
2016 % Change
Three months ended December 31,
Year ended December 31,
Natural gas (Mcf)
NGLs (Bbl)
Crude oil (Bbl)
Total Boe
Total Mcfe
11,251,434 11,089,678
76,611
55,418
1,980,309
11,861,916 11,881,852
80,985
20,762
1,976,986
1 44,428,062 45,715,776
338,025
6
275,691
(63)
‐
8,233,012
‐ 46,893,546 49,398,072
337,130
73,784
7,815,591
Natural gas weighting
95%
93%
2
95%
93%
(3)
‐
(73)
(5)
(5)
2
Average daily sales volumes by product
2017
2016 % Change
2017
2016 % Change
Three months ended December 31,
Year ended December 31,
Natural gas (Mcf/d)
NGLs (Bbl/d)
Crude oil (Bbl/d)
Total (Boe/d)
Total (Mcfe/d)
122,304
880
225
21,489
128,934
120,540
833
602
21,525
129,150
1
6
(63)
‐
‐
121,718
924
198
21,408
128,448
124,906
924
753
22,495
134,970
(3)
‐
(73)
(5)
(5)
Average daily sales volumes by area
2017
2016 % Change
2017
2016 % Change
Three months ended December 31,
Year ended December 31,
Central (Boe/d)
Southern (Boe/d)
Edson (Boe/d)
Total (Boe/d)
Total (Mcfe/d)
10,382
8,958
2,149
21,489
128,934
10,099
9,264
2,162
21,525
129,150
3
(3)
(1)
‐
‐
10,039
9,141
2,228
21,408
128,448
10,662
9,487
2,346
22,495
134,970
(6)
(4)
(5)
(5)
(5)
Pine Cliff’s sales volumes were flat at 21,489 Boe/d (128,934 Mcfe/d) from 21,525 Boe/d (129,150 Mcfe/d) for the three months ended
December 31, 2017, as compared to the same period in 2016. The production volumes stayed flat from natural declines, offset by
increased volumes from the 2017 recompletion projects in the Central area.
Pine Cliff’s sales volumes decreased 5% to 21,408 Boe/d (128,448 Mcfe/d) from 22,495 Boe/d (134,970 Mcfe/d) for the year ended
December 31, 2017, as compared to the same period in 2016. The decrease is primarily the result of the December 2016 disposition
and natural declines, slightly offset by production increases from minor capital programs during 2017.
Pine Cliff is projecting 2018 production volumes of 20,000 – 20,500 Boe/d (120,000 – 123,000 Mcfe/d), weighted approximately 95%
towards natural gas.
Benchmark Prices
Three months ended December 31,
Year ended December 31,
2017
2016
% Change
2017
2016
% Change
2.91
1.68
55.40
68.98
2.95
3.08
49.29
61.61
(1)
(45)
12
12
3.07
2.14
50.95
62.85
2.43
2.15
43.32
52.93
1.326
26
‐
18
19
(2)
1.270
1 Mmbtu is the abbreviation for millions of British thermal units. One Mcf of natural gas is approximately 1.02 Mmbtu.
2 AECO prices are quoted in $/Gigajoule. Price has been converted from $/GJ to $/Mcf by multiplying by 1.05.
1.295
1.334
(5)
Natural gas
NYMEX (US$/Mmbtu)1
AECO Daily 5A (C$/Mcf)2
Crude oil
WTI (US$/Bbl)
Edmonton Light (C$/Bbl)
Foreign exchange
US$/C$
12
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
OIL AND GAS SALES
($000s)
Natural gas
NGL
Crude oil
Total oil and gas sales
% of revenue from natural gas sales
Realized prices (before hedging)
$ per unit
Natural gas ($/Mcf)
NGL ($/Bbl)
Crude oil ($/Bbl)
Total ($/Boe)
Total ($/Mcfe)
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
2017
Three months ended December 31,
Year ended December 31,
2017
22,221
3,864
1,292
27,377
81%
2016 % Change
2017
2016 % Change
32,753
2,841
2,722
38,316
85%
(32)
36
(53)
(29)
(4)
102,067
14,772
4,142
120,981
84%
97,331
10,997
10,314
118,642
82%
5
34
(60)
2
2
Three months ended December 31,
Year ended December 31,
2017
1.98
47.73
62.41
13.85
2.31
2016 % Change
2.95
37.08
49.12
19.35
3.23
(33)
29
27
(28)
(28)
2017
2.30
43.81
57.17
15.48
2.58
2016 % Change
2.13
32.53
37.41
14.41
2.40
8
35
53
7
7
Oil and gas sales in the three months ended December 31, 2017, decreased $10.9 million to $27.4 million from $38.3 million in the
three months ended December 31, 2016, with $10.8 million of the decrease attributable to lower realized prices and $0.1 million from
lower sales volumes. Oil and gas sales for the year ended December 31, 2017, increased $2.3 million to $121.1 million from $118.6
million during the year ended December 31, 2016, with $8.3 million of the increase being attributable to higher realized prices, partially
offset by $6.0 million from lower sales volumes.
Pine Cliff’s realized natural gas price was $1.98 per Mcf and $2.30 per Mcf for the three months and year ended December 31, 2017,
33% lower and 8% higher than the $2.95 per Mcf and $2.13 per Mcf in the corresponding periods of the prior year, primarily as a result
of changes in the AECO natural gas price. For the three months and year ended December 31, 2017, Pine Cliff’s realized NGL prices
were $47.73 per Bbl and $43.81 per Bbl, compared to $37.08 per Bbl and $32.53 per Bbl in the corresponding periods of the prior year.
For the three months and year ended December 31, 2017, Pine Cliff’s realized oil prices were $62.41 per Bbl and $57.17 per Bbl,
compared to $49.12 per Bbl and $37.41 per Bbl in the corresponding periods of the prior year. The increases in NGL and oil prices
were a result of a corresponding increase in the Edmonton Light oil price. Pine Cliff’s realized NGL price in the three months and year
ended December 31, 2017 were 69% and 70% of Edmonton Light compared to 60% and 61% in the corresponding periods of the prior
year. Pine Cliff’s realized oil price in the three months and year ended December 31, 2017 were 90% and 91% of Edmonton Light
compared to 80% and 71% in the corresponding periods of the prior year.
REALIZED HEDGING GAIN
($000s)
Total realized hedging gain
$ per Boe
$ per Mcfe
Three months ended December 31,
Year ended December 31,
2017
1,286
0.65
0.11
2016 % Change
‐
‐
‐
‐
‐
‐
2017
4,037
0.52
0.09
2016 % Change
‐
‐
‐
‐
‐
‐
For the three months and year ended December 31, 2017, the Company realized a hedging gain of $1.3 million and $4.0 million,
respectively. The realized hedging gain is from the Company entering into physical fixed price natural gas sales contracts in 2017.
Please refer to the “Commodity Price Risk” section for additional information.
13
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
2017
ROYALTY REVENUE
($000s)
Total royalty revenue
Three months ended December 31,
Year ended December 31,
2017
‐
2016 % Change
2017
2016 % Change
‐
‐
‐
1,111
(100)
On June 29, 2016, the Company sold its fee title lands and other minor overriding royalty interests for cash consideration of $24.7
million. As a result, there is no royalty income in the current year.
ROYALTY EXPENSE
($000s)
Total royalty expense
$ per Boe
$ per Mcfe
Royalty expense as a % of oil and gas sales
Three months ended December 31,
Year ended December 31,
2017
2,095
1.06
0.18
8%
2016 % Change
2017
2016 % Change
3,145
1.59
0.26
8%
(33)
(33)
(33)
‐
10,152
8,821
1.30
0.22
8%
1.07
0.18
7%
15
21
21
14
For the three months and year ended December 31, 2017, total royalty expense decreased by 33% and increased by 15% to $2.1 million
and $10.2 million, from $3.1 million and $8.8 million in the corresponding periods of the prior year. Royalty expense as a percentage
of oil and gas sales stayed flat at 8% in the three months and year ended December 31, 2017, compared to 8% and 7% in the
corresponding periods of the prior year. The increase in royalty expense for the year is primarily a result of higher oil and gas revenue
and higher royalty rates due to the sale of fee title lands in 2016. Pine Cliff expects royalties to average 7% of sales in 2018.
TRANSPORTATION COSTS
($000s)
Total transportation costs
$ per Boe
$ per Mcfe
Three months ended December 31,
Year ended December 31,
2017
2,648
1.34
0.22
2016 % Change
1,520
0.77
0.13
74
74
74
2017
8,733
1.12
0.19
2016 % Change
8,068
0.98
0.16
8
14
14
For the three months and year ended December 31, 2017, transportation costs increased by 74% and 8% to $2.6 million and $8.7
million from $1.5 million and $8.1 million in the corresponding periods of the prior year. The higher transportation expenses are
related to the Company increasing its delivery of natural gas to non‐AECO markets, including the delivery of approximately 11,000
Mcf/d to Dawn, effective November 1, 2017.
Pine Cliff is targeting transportation expenses of approximately $1.80 per Boe ($0.30 per Mcfe) in 2018, which is higher than our 2017
transportation expenses of $1.12 per Boe ($0.19 per Mcfe) due to higher transportation expenses associated with the Company
mitigating its exposure to AECO benchmark pricing. Higher transportation expenses are expected to be more than offset by higher
expected commodity price premiums from more diverse markets.
OPERATING EXPENSES
($000s)
Total operating expenses
$ per Boe
$ per Mcfe
Three months ended December 31,
Year ended December 31,
2017
2016 % Change
2017
2016 % Change
18,288
16,196
9.25
1.54
8.18
1.36
13
13
13
68,029
69,250
8.70
1.45
8.41
1.40
(2)
3
3
Operating expenses increased by 13% and decreased by 2% to $18.3 Million and $68.0 million for the three months and year ended
December 31, 2017, as compared to $16.2 million and $69.3 million in the corresponding periods of the prior year. The increase in the
fourth quarter of 2017 compared to the fourth quarter of 2016 is related to the timing of expenditures, most notably an increase in
swabbing costs to mitigate production declines, offset by a reduction in capital spending. The decrease in operating expenses for the
year ended December 31, 2017 compared to 2016 was mainly related to a December 2016 disposition. On a per Boe basis, operating
costs increased by 13% and 3% for the three months and year ended December 31, 2017 compared to the same periods in 2016,
primarily as a result of lower production.
14
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
2017
Pine Cliff is targeting operating expenses of approximately $8.95 per Boe ($1.49 per Mcfe) in 2018, which is slightly higher than the
2017 operating expenses of $8.70 per Boe ($1.45 per Mcfe). Pine Cliff is committed to seeking increased efficiencies and lower field
operating expenses, although quarterly variances may result from timing of expenditures.
GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES (“G&A”)
($000s)
Gross G&A
Less: overhead recoveries
Total G&A expenses
$ per Boe
$ per Mcfe
Three months ended December 31,
Year ended December 31,
2017
1,705
(622)
1,083
0.55
0.09
2016 % Change
2017
2016 % Change
1,662
(726)
936
0.47
0.08
3
(14)
16
17
17
8,162
(2,247)
5,915
0.76
0.13
8,465
(1,506)
6,959
0.85
0.14
(4)
49
(15)
(11)
(11)
G&A increased 16% to $1.1 million for the three months ended December 31, 2017, as compared to $0.9 million in the corresponding
period of the prior year. The increase is primarily a result of timing differences of overhead recoveries. G&A decreased 15% to $5.9
million for the year ended December 31, 2017 as compared $7.0 million in the corresponding period of the prior year. The decrease in
G&A is primarily a result of higher overhead recoveries and a reduction of consulting costs in 2017 following the addition of staff in
2016.
On a per Boe basis, G&A increased by 17% to $0.55 per Boe ($0.09 per Mcfe) for the three months ended December 31, 2017 as
compared to $0.47 per Boe ($0.08 per Mcfe) in the corresponding period of the prior year, primarily a result of timing differences of
overhead recoveries. On a per Boe basis, G&A decreased 11% to $0.76 per Boe ($0.13 per Mcfe) for the year ended December 31, 2017
as compared to $0.85 per Boe ($0.14 per Mcfe) in the prior year, primarily a result of higher overhead recoveries and a reduction of
consulting costs during 2017, following the addition of staff in 2016.
Pine Cliff anticipates G&A expenses to average approximately $0.85 per Boe ($0.14 per Mcfe) in 2018.
SHARE‐BASED PAYMENTS
($000s)
Total share‐based payments
$ per Boe
$ per Mcfe
Three months ended December 31,
Year ended December 31,
2017
868
0.44
0.07
2016 % Change
791
0.40
0.07
10
10
10
2017
3,578
0.46
0.08
2016 % Change
3,196
0.39
0.06
12
18
18
The Company has an equity settled stock‐based compensation plan. Stock options are granted to certain officers, directors, employees
and consultants, with the number, term and vesting period of the options granted being determined at the discretion of the Company’s
board of directors to a maximum of 10% of outstanding Pine Cliff common shares (“Common Shares”).
During the year ended December 31, 2017, Pine Cliff granted 5,710,150 stock options to purchase Common Shares at a weighted
average exercise price of $0.78. As at December 31, 2017, the Company had 21,316,406 stock options outstanding representing 6.9%
of Common Shares outstanding (December 31, 2016 – 22,773,431 representing 7.4% of Common Shares outstanding).
15
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
2017
DEPLETION, DEPRECIATION, AND IMPAIRMENT
($000s)
2017
2016 % Change
2017
2016 % Change
Three months ended December 31,
Year ended December 31,
Total depletion and depreciation
11,992
12,877
$ per Boe
$ per Mcfe
Impairment
6.07
1.01
‐
Total depletion, depreciation, and impairment
11,992
$ per Boe
$ per Mcfe
6.07
1.01
6.50
1.08
4,648
17,525
8.85
1.47
(7)
(7)
(6)
(100)
(32)
(31)
(31)
49,150
64,387
6.29
1.05
17,800
66,950
8.57
1.43
7.82
1.30
4,648
69,035
8.39
1.40
(24)
(20)
(19)
283
(3)
2
2
Depletion and depreciation expense, excluding impairment for the three months and year ended December 31, 2017, totaled $12.0
million and $49.2 million compared to $12.9 million and $64.4 million in the corresponding periods of the prior year, as a result of
positive reserves revisions and a lower depletable base. Depletion and depreciation per Boe will fluctuate from one period to the next
depending on the amount and type of capital spending and the changes in reserves. Depletion is calculated using total proved and
probable reserves, which reserves estimates are subject to revision.
Property, Plant and Equipment (“PP&E”) Impairment Assessment
During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company had four Cash Generating Units (“CGU”), the Southern CGU, the Central Gas
CGU, the Edson CGU, and the Coal Bed Methane CGU. The Company reviewed each CGU’s property and equipment at each reporting
period during the year ended December 31, 2017 for indicators of impairment and determined that an indicator related to the decrease
in future commodity prices was present at September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2017. The Company prepared estimates of both the
value in use and fair value less cost to sell of each of the Company’s CGUs. When it is determined that any CGU carrying value exceeds
its recoverable amount, that CGU is considered impaired and an impairment expense is reported that equals this excess.
The following table outlines forecast benchmark prices and exchange rates used in the Company’s impairment test as at December 31,
2017:
Year WTI Oil (US$/Bbl)1
2018
58.50
58.70
2019
62.40
2020
2021
69.00
2022
73.10
2023‐2032
81.60
Thereafter
+2%/yr
$C to US$ Foreign
exchange rate1
1.27
1.27
1.25
1.21
1.18
1.18
1.18
Edmonton Light Crude
Oil (Cdn$/Bbl) 1
70.10
71.30
74.90
80.50
82.80
AECO Gas
(Cdn$/MMBtu) 1
2.25
2.65
3.05
3.40
3.60
92.43 4.02
+2%/yr
+2%/yr
1 Source: McDaniel & Associates Consultants Ltd. price forecasts, effective January 1, 2018.
The recoverable amounts of each of the Company’s CGU’s at September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2017 were estimated at their fair
value less cost to sell, based on the net present value of discounted future cash flows from operating activities from oil and gas reserves
as estimated by the Company’s independent reserves evaluator at December 31, 2017. The fair value less costs to sell used to determine
the recoverable amounts are classified as Level 3 fair value measurements as certain key assumptions are not based on observable
market data, but rather, the Company’s management best estimates.
The Company used a pre‐tax 15% discount rate for the September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2017 impairment tests which took into
account risks specific to the CGU’s and inherent in the oil and gas business. The impairment testing concluded that the fair value less
costs to sell for the Company’s CGU’s at December 31, 2017 are greater than the carrying amounts, however, testing concluded that
the fair value less cost to sell was less than the carrying amount for the Edson CGU and Coal Bed Methane CGU at September 30, 2017
and impairment was recorded.
16
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
2017
The following CGU’s were impaired as at December 31, 2017:
CGUs
Edson
Coal Bed Methane
Total Impairment
2017
14,000
3,800
17,800
2016
‐
‐
‐
Exploration and Evaluation Assets (“E&E”) Impairment Assessment
In accordance with IFRS, an impairment test is performed if the Company identified an indication of impairment. At December 31,
2017, the Company determined that no indicators of impairment existed on its E&E assets and therefore an impairment test was not
performed.
At December 31, 2016, the Company recorded an impairment to E&E of $4.6 million relating to the Southern CGU as it was determined
that the assets would not become commercially viable at existing price forecasts and therefore the carrying amount exceeded the
recoverable amount.
FINANCE EXPENSES
($000s)
Interest expense and bank charges
Non cash:
Accretion on decommissioning provision
Accretion on subordinated promissory notes
Total finance expenses
$ per Boe
$ per Mcfe
Three months ended December 31,
Year ended December 31,
2017
842
1,305
57
2,204
1.11
0.19
2016 % Change
1,511
(44)
1,469
53
3,033
1.53
0.26
(11)
8
(27)
(27)
(27)
2017
3,694
4,984
221
8,899
1.14
0.19
2016 % Change
7,034
(47)
5,189
82
12,305
1.49
0.25
(4)
170
(28)
(23)
(23)
In the three months and year ended December 31, 2017, Pine Cliff incurred finance expenses of $2.2 million and $8.9 million, 27% and
28% lower than the $3.0 million and $12.3 million in the corresponding periods of the prior year. The decrease is largely due to
decreased interest and bank charges from lower debt levels. Please refer to the “DEBT, LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES”
section for additional information.
DIVIDEND INCOME
($000s)
Total dividend income
$ per Boe
Three months ended December 31,
Year ended December 31,
2017
52
0.03
2016 % Change
18
0.01
189
200
2017
210
0.03
2016 % Change
120
0.01
75
200
In the three months and year ended December 31, 2017, Pine Cliff received $0.05 million and $0.2 million in dividends from its
investment in one dividend paying company.
DEFERRED INCOME TAX
For the year ended December 31, 2017, deferred income tax expenses amounted to $20.8 million from $11.1 million of deferred income
tax recoveries in the same period of 2016.
17
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
The Company had the following tax pools, including non‐capital loss carry‐forwards, at December 31, 2017:
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
2017
Category of tax pool
Undepreciated capital costs
Canadian oil and gas property expenditures
Canadian development expenditures
Canadian exploration expenditures
Share issue costs
Non‐capital losses carried forward 1
Capital losses carried forward2
Rate of Utilization (%)
7 ‐ 100
10
30
100
20
100
2017
41,791
240,793
11,761
74
3,201
82,576
2,776
382,972
1 Non‐capital losses expire between the years 2030 and 2037.
2 The capital losses carried forward can only be claimed against taxable capital gains.
As at December 31, 2017, the unused non‐capital losses expire between 2030 and 2037, and the unused capital losses have no expiry
date. The deductible temporary differences do not expire under tax legislation. Pine Cliff has approximately $383.0 million in tax pools
at December 31, 2017 available for future use as deductions from taxable income.
As at December 31, 2017, a deferred income tax asset has not been recognized on $33.3 million (December 31, 2016 ‐ $4.0 million) of
deductible temporary differences as it is not probable that future taxable net income will be available against which the Company can
utilize the benefits.
EARNINGS (LOSS)
Year to year variance analysis:
($000s)
Loss for the year ended December 31, 2016
Price variance
Volume variance
Gain on commodity contracts
Royalty revenue
Royalty expense
Transportation costs
Operating expenses
General and administrative
Depletion and depreciation
Share‐based payments
Finance expenses
Realized loss in investments
Gain on disposition
Dividend income
Deferred income expense
Impairment
Loss for the year ended December 31, 2017
(50,387)
8,354
(6,015)
4,037
(1,111)
(1,331)
(665)
1,221
1,044
15,237
(382)
3,406
4,270
(518)
90
(31,962)
(13,152)
(67,864)
During the year ended December 31, 2017, Pine Cliff’s net loss increased by $17.5 million to $67.9 million as compared to a net loss of
$50.4 million during the year ended December 31, 2016. The increase in net loss is mainly a result of higher deferred tax expenses,
lower production volumes, lower royalty revenue, higher royalty and transportation expenses, and higher impairment expenses,
partially offset by higher commodity prices, gain on commodity contracts, lower depletion, depreciation, operating expenses, finance
expenses, G&A expenses and realized loss in investments.
18
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
2017
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE EARNINGS (LOSS)
Activity in other comprehensive income (loss) (“OCI”) for the year ended December 31, 2017 relates to the revaluation of investments
held at December 31, 2017 of $2.8 million in one public company. Activity in OCI for the year ended December 31, 2016 relates to the
revaluation of investments held at December 31, 2016 of $0.3 million and the realization of losses previously recorded in OCI for an
investment sold during 2016 of $6.3 million.
CAPITAL EXPENDITURES, ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSITIONS
($000s)
Exploration and evaluation
Property, plant and equipment
Capital expenditures
Acquisitions
Dispositions
Total
Year ended December 31,
2017
79
13,398
13,477
(62)
(429)
12,986
2016
127
9,032
9,159
(807)
(63,112)
(54,760)
Capital expenditures of $13.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2017, were directed towards drilling eleven gross (1.8 net)
wells in the Edson and Central areas for $4.9 million, facility and maintenance capital of $5.9 million, recompletions of $1.5 million,
and $1.2 million of other miscellaneous capital additions.
Pine Cliff’s Board of Directors has approved a 2018 capital budget of $9.1 million, excluding abandonments that will be funded from
cash flow from operating activities. Pine Cliff intends to spend $4.0 million drilling six gross (1.2 net) wells in the liquids rich Edson
area and $0.2 million drilling two gross (0.3 net) oil wells in the Central area. Additionally, Pine Cliff anticipates spending
approximately $2.8 million on major maintenance capital, and $2.1 million on facility upgrades and other capital. Pine Cliff will monitor
its capital spending throughout the year and may modify it depending on commodity prices.
DECOMMISSIONING PROVISION
The total future decommissioning provision of $200.5 million was estimated by management based on the Company’s working interest
and estimated costs to remediate, reclaim and abandon its wells, pipelines, and facilities and estimated timing of the costs to be
incurred in future periods.
At December 31, 2017, the estimated total undiscounted and uninflated amount required to settle the decommissioning liabilities was
$244.3 million (December 31, 2016 ‐ $240.2 million). The provision has been calculated assuming a 1.72% inflation rate (December
31, 2016 – 1.76%). These obligations are currently expected to be settled based on the useful lives of the underlying assets, some of
which extend beyond 35 years into the future. This amount has been discounted using an average risk‐free interest rate of 2.57%
(December 31, 2016 – 2.39%).
DEBT, LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Bank Credit Facilities
As at December 31, 2017, the Company had a $45.0 million syndicated credit facility (the “Credit Facility”) with four Canadian
Financial Institutions (the “Syndicate”) (December 31, 2016 ‐ $60.0 million Credit Facility). The Credit Facility of $45.0 million consists
of a $30.0 million revolving syndicated credit facility and a $15.0 million revolving operating facility. Security consists of floating
demand debentures totaling $150.0 million and a general security agreement with first ranking over all current and acquired
properties. Amounts drawn under the Credit Facility at December 31, 2017, were $18.0 million (December 31, 2016 ‐ $30.9 million).
Borrowings under the Credit Facility bear interest at the Canadian prime rate plus 1.0% to 3.5% or the bankers’ acceptance rates plus
2.0% to 4.5%, depending, in each case, on the ratio of consolidated debt to EBITDA, plus applicable standby fees. EBITDA is calculated
as earnings (loss) excluding depreciation, depletion, impairment and accretion, unrealized hedging gain, share based payments,
interest, taxes and other non‐cash items. The Credit Facility matures July 27, 2018, and if it is not renewed it will convert to a one day
term loan due on July 28, 2018. The Credit Facility is reviewed semi‐annually on May 31st and November 30th with the next renewal
scheduled for May 31, 2018. The Credit Facility has no fixed terms of repayment.
As at December 31, 2017, the Company had $2.0 million in letters of credit issued against its Credit Facility (December 31, 2016 ‐ $1.7
million). The Credit Facility does not contain any financial covenants but Pine Cliff is subject to non‐financial covenants under its Credit
19
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
2017
Facility. Compliance with these covenants is monitored on a regular basis and as at December 31, 2017, Pine Cliff was in compliance
with all covenants.
Subordinated Promissory Notes due July 29, 2018
As at December 31, 2017, the Company had $6.0 million outstanding in promissory notes maturing on July 29, 2018 (the “2018 Notes”)
that bear interest at 0.25% less than the monthly average effective interest rate paid on the Credit Facility and is payable monthly. The
2018 Notes were issued to a shareholder and a relative of that shareholder of the Company, owning directly or by discretion and
control, greater than 10% of the outstanding Common Shares. The 2018 Notes can be repaid at any time without penalty and are
secured by $6.0 million of floating charge debentures over all of the Company’s assets and are subordinated to any and all claims in
favor of the Credit Facility and the 2020 Note holder.
Due to Related Party – Promissory Note due July 29, 2018
Pine Cliff has a $5.0 million promissory note outstanding to the Company’s Chairman of the Board maturing on July 29, 2018 (“2018
Related Party Note”) that bears interest at 0.25% less than the monthly average effective interest rate paid on the Credit Facility and
is payable monthly. The 2018 Related Party Note can be repaid at any time without penalty and is secured by a $5.0 million floating
charge debenture over all of the Company’s assets and is subordinated to any and all claims in favor of the Credit Facility and the holder
of the Subordinated Promissory Notes due September 30, 2020. Interest paid on the 2018 Related Party Note for the year ended
December 31, 2017 was $0.2 million (December 31, 2016 ‐ $0.1 million).
Subordinated Promissory Notes due September 30, 2020
As at December 31, 2017, the Company has 30,000 units (“Units” or “Unit”) outstanding at a price of $1,000 per Unit for a principal
debt balance of $30.0 million. Each Unit is comprised of: (i) one promissory note with a par value of $1,000 per note and bearing
interest at 6.75% per annum (the "2020 Notes"), which is payable semi‐annually; and (ii) 150 Common Share purchase warrants (the
"Warrants"). The 2020 Notes mature on September 30, 2020 and all or a portion of the principal amount outstanding can be repaid
without penalty. The 2020 Notes are secured by a $30.0 million floating charge debenture over all of the Company’s assets and is
subordinated to any and all claims in favor of the Credit Facility. A total of 4.5 million Warrants are outstanding, each entitling the
holder to purchase one Common Share for $1.38 until August 10, 2018.
Share Capital
Share capital
Common Shares
Stock options
Warrants
Capital Resources
March 13, 2018
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2016
307,075,787
20,919,507
4,500,000
307,075,787
21,316,406
4,500,000
307,075,787
22,773,431
4,500,000
Pine Cliff’s capital budget for 2018 is $10.4 million, including $1.3 million for abandonments and reclamation, before acquisitions and
dispositions. Pine Cliff anticipates funding its capital budget through funds flow from operations. Budgeted future capital expenditures
related to drilling are largely discretionary in nature and Pine Cliff is able to adjust the nature, amount and timing of most planned
capital expenditures to changes in the business and commodity price environment.
Pine Cliff will continue to focus on additional opportunities to enhance shareholders’ long term value which could include additional
asset acquisitions or dispositions.
Liquidity
It is anticipated that cash flows from operating activities and the unused portion of the Credit Facility will allow Pine Cliff to meet its
financial liabilities, as well as fund future capital requirements, at a reasonable cost. The Company believes it has sufficient funding to
meet its obligations as they come due and, if required, would consider selling non‐core assets, additional debt financing, or issuing
equity in order to meet its future liabilities.
During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company financed its capital expenditures with cash flows from operating activities
while also reducing bank debt.
20
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
2017
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
As at December 31, 2017, the Company has the following commitments and other contractual obligations:
($000s)
Subordinated promissory notes1
Trade and other payables
Due to related party
Bank debt
Future interest
Operating leases
Transportation
Total commitments and contingencies
OFF BALANCE SHEET TRANSACTIONS
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
Thereafter
6,000
17,288
5,000
18,000
2,760
1,061
8,804
58,913
‐
‐
‐
‐
2,025
1,354
7,710
11,089
30,000
‐
‐
‐
1,519
706
7,152
39,377
‐
‐
‐
‐
‐
524
6,070
6,594
‐
‐
‐
‐
‐
461
5,153
5,614
‐
‐
‐
‐
‐
461
15,313
15,774
Pine Cliff was not involved in any off‐balance sheet transactions during the periods presented, nor has it entered into any such
arrangements as of the effective date of this MD&A.
FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND RISK MANAGEMENT
The Company is exposed to both financial and non‐financial risks inherent in the oil and gas business. Financial risks include:
commodity prices, interest rates, equity price, foreign exchange, credit availability and liquidity. Financial risks can be managed, at
least to a degree, through the utilization of financial instruments. Certain non‐financial risks can be mitigated through the use of
insurance and/or other risk transfer mechanisms, good business practices and process controls, while others must simply be borne.
All risks can have an impact upon the financial performance of the Company. The Company has several practices and policies in place
to help mitigate these risks.
Market Risk
Market risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows from operating activities of the Company’s financial instruments will
fluctuate because of changes in market prices. Components of market risk to which Pine Cliff is exposed are discussed below.
Commodity Price Risk
The Company is exposed to commodity price risk since its revenues are dependent on the prices of crude oil and natural gas.
Commodity prices have fluctuated widely during recent years due to global and regional factors including, but not limited to, supply
and demand, inventory levels, weather, economic changes and geopolitical factors and instability. Changes in oil and natural gas prices
may have a significant effect, positively or negatively, on the ability of the Company to meet its obligations, capital spending targets
and expected operational results. A material decline or extended period of low oil or natural gas prices could result in a reduction of
net production revenue. The economics of producing from some wells may change because of lower prices, which could result in
reduced production of oil or natural gas and a reduction in the volumes of Pine Cliff’s reserves. Management may also elect not to
produce from certain wells at lower prices.
In 2017, the Company entered into physical fixed price natural gas sales contracts to mitigate its exposure to fluctuations in natural
gas prices. Pine Cliff’s loss has been reduced by a realized gain on commodity contracts during the year ended December 31, 2017 of
$4.0 million (December 31, 2016 ‐ $Nil).
Interest Rate Risk
The Company is principally exposed to interest rate risk to the extent it draws on its variable rate debt. Changes in market interest
rates could affect the cash flows from operating activities associated with variable rate debt. If interest rates applicable to Pine Cliff’s
variable rate debt increased or decreased by one percent, it is estimated that Pine Cliff’s loss for the year ended December 31, 2017,
would have increased or decreased, respectively, by $0.3 million (December 31, 2016 ‐ $0.4 million).
21
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
2017
Equity Price Risk
Equity price risk refers to the risk that the fair value of investments will fluctuate due to changes in equity markets. Equity price risk
arises from the realizable value of investments that the Company holds which are subject to variable equity prices which on disposition
gives rise to cash flows from operating activities equity price risk.
Foreign Exchange Risk
The Company is exposed to foreign exchange risk because the oil and natural gas prices it receives are indirectly determined in
reference to United States dollar denominated commodity prices. The Company manages this risk by monitoring the foreign exchange
rate and evaluating its effect on cash flows from operating activities. Pine Cliff has not entered into any derivative financial instruments
to manage this risk.
Credit Risk
Credit risk is the risk that a third party will not complete its contractual obligations under a financial instrument and cause the
Company to incur a financial loss. Pine Cliff’s maximum exposure to credit risk is the sum of the carrying values of its trade and other
receivables, commodity contracts and cash, which are a reflection of management’s assessment of the associated maximum exposure
to such credit risk.
To mitigate the credit risk on its cash, the Company maintains its cash balances with major Canadian chartered banks. To mitigate the
credit risk on trade and other receivables and commodity contracts, Pine Cliff assesses the financial strength of its counterparties and
enters into relationships with larger purchasers with established credit histories.
The Company’s trade and other receivables balance at December 31, 2017 of $15.1 million (December 31, 2016 – $20.0 million), is
primarily with oil and gas marketers, joint venture partners and crown royalty credits with the Province of Alberta. Amounts due from
these parties have generally been received within 30 to 60 days. When determining whether amounts that are past due are collectible,
management assesses the creditworthiness and past payment history of the counterparty, as well as the nature of the past due amount.
The Company generally considers amounts greater than 90 days to be past due. As at December 31, 2017, there was $0.5 million
(December 31, 2016 ‐ $1.8 million) of trade and other receivables over 90 days. Pine Cliff assesses its trade and other receivables
quarterly to determine if there has been any impairment. During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company recorded $0.2
million (December 31, 2016 ‐ $0.5 million) of bad debt expense against trade and other accounts receivables.
Liquidity Risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that Pine Cliff will not be able to meet its financial obligations as they become due. Pine Cliff manages its
liquidity risk through actively managing it capital, which it defines as cash, debt and equity. Capital management strategies include
continuously monitoring forecasted and actual cash flows from operating, financing and investing activities, available credit under the
Credit Facility and opportunities to issue additional equity. Pine Cliff actively monitors its credit and working capital to ensure that it
has sufficient available funds to meet its financial requirements at a reasonable cost. Management believes that funds generated from
these sources currently will be adequate to settle Pine Cliff’s financial liabilities.
The Company currently has a $45.0 million Credit Facility, of which $18.0 million was drawn at December 31, 2017. The unused portion
of the Credit Facility and cash provided by operating activities are expected to allow Pine Cliff to meet its financial liabilities, as well as
future capital requirements. There is a risk that the borrowing base of the Credit Facility could be reduced, which may create liquidity
risk. Additionally, Pine Cliff has a $5.0 million 2018 Related Party Note and a $6.0 million 2018 Note that are both due on July 29, 2018
and if this facility along with the promissory notes are not renewed it may create liquidity risk. If required, Pine Cliff will also consider
additional short‐term financing or issuing equity in order to meet its future liabilities.
The Credit Facility matures July 27, 2018. The lenders review the Credit Facility semi‐annually on May 31st and November 30th, with
the next review scheduled for May 31, 2018. In the event the Credit Facility is not extended, indebtedness under the Credit Facility will
become due and repayable on July 28, 2018. There is also a risk that the Credit Facilities will not be renewed for the same amount or
on the same terms or that the lenders reduce the borrowing base as a result of their regularly scheduled borrowing base review. Any
of these events could affect Pine Cliff’s ability to fund ongoing operations.
RISK FACTORS
Certain activities of the Company are affected by factors that are beyond its control or influence. Additional risks and uncertainties that
management may be unaware of, or that they determine to be immaterial may also become important factors which affect the
Company. Along with the risks discussed in this MD&A, other business risks faced by the Company may be found under “Risk Factors”
22
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
2017
in the Company’s most recent Annual Information Form which is available under the Company’s profile at www.sedar.com or by
contacting the Company.
Operational
This category encompasses a number of risks. Wells may produce at lower initial production rates than planned, or face steeper decline
rates. Operating costs can increase due to such considerations as unanticipated workovers or higher than expected costs associated
with corrosion. Pine Cliff follows prudent industry practices with respect to insurance where practicable and as guided by external
experts, but cannot fully insure against all risks. With respect to non‐insurable operating risks, the Company has attempted to design
business process controls and accountability to identify problems at the earliest possible occasion and implement solutions. However,
investors must appreciate that operational risk is very much a characteristic of the business, and can never be entirely eliminated.
Reserves
The Company retains independent reserve evaluators and had 100% of the reserves reviewed. The methodologies used assess the
certainty of recovery on reserve categories under National Instrument 51‐101 Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities (“NI 51‐
101”). As per NI 51‐101, there is a 90% probability of attaining proven reserves and a 50% probability of attaining the proven plus
probable reserves assigned. The Company plans to fund additional drilling and infrastructure expenditures from internal funds flows
from operations, as well as its credit facility, in order to achieve the reserve assignments. There remains a probability that for technical
or economic reasons, the reserves assigned may not be attained. In our case, Pine Cliff believes the risk is moderate to low as we are
operating in well‐established environments. As with operational risk, however, Pine Cliff again cautions investors that reserve risk is
endemic and cannot be eliminated.
Safety, Environmental and Regulatory Risks
Safety, environmental and regulatory risks are the risks of loss or lost opportunity resulting from changes to laws governing safety, the
environment, royalties and taxation. Safety, environmental and regulatory risks Pine Cliff is exposed to include: aboriginal land claims;
uncertainties associated with regulatory approvals; uncertainty of government policy changes; the risk of carrying out operations with
minimal environmental impact; changes in or adoption of new laws and regulations or changes in how they are interpreted or enforced;
obtaining required approvals of regulatory authorities and stakeholder support for activities and growth plans.
In November 2015, the Province of Alberta released its Climate Leadership Plan which will impact businesses that contribute to carbon
emissions in Alberta. The plan's four key areas include imposing carbon pricing that is applied across all sectors, starting at $20 per
tonne on January 1, 2017 and moving to $30 per tonne on January 1, 2018, and a 45 percent reduction in methane emissions by the oil
and gas sector by 2025. The Company is currently monitoring developments in this plan and will evaluate the expected impact of the
plan on its results of operations.
In October 2016, the Government of Canada announced a pan‐Canadian approach to the pricing of carbon emissions. The plan includes
imposing carbon pricing beginning at a minimum of $10 per tonne in 2018 and rising by $10 per tonne each year to $50 per tonne in
2022. Provinces and territories have a year to introduce their own carbon pricing or adopt a cap‐and trade system that meets or
exceeds the federal benchmark. If provinces and territories fail to implement a price or cap‐and‐trade plan by 2018, the Government
of Canada has indicated that they will implement a price in that jurisdiction.
The Government of Alberta has indicated that it intends to meet the federal carbon pricing guidelines, and accordingly the Government
of Canada proposals are not expected to significantly impact the Company’s results of operations. However, both the Government of
Alberta and Government of Canada’s approaches to pricing of carbon emissions could nonetheless have material adverse effects on the
Company’s results of operations, which may include, but are not limited to: increased compliance costs, permitting delays, substantial
costs to generate or purchase applicable emission credits or allowance, all of which may increase operating expenses.
Both the oil and gas and mining industries activities entail numerous environmental impacts which can be detrimental. Even normal
operations can generate carbon emissions. Wells can blow out, or pipelines can fail with consequent contamination of soil, air, and
water. A small number of Pine Cliff’s wells produce natural gas with a high content of hydrogen sulphide, which is poisonous and can
be fatal, thus requiring the highest standards of operational responsibility and emergency response practices and procedures.
The industries are subject to extensive environmental legislation and regulations at Federal, Provincial, and Municipal levels. Thus,
the Company is at risk not only to the cost of the incidents themselves, but to various sanctions which can be imposed by governments
or government instrumentalities. The Company expects that environmental legislation and regulations will continue to be assessed,
may become stricter over time, and that the costs of compliance may grow. The international and domestic debate upon controls of
greenhouse gas emissions will continue, with unpredictable but potentially material consequences for the oil and gas industry and its
participants.
23
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
2017
To mitigate environmental risk the Company conducts its operations to target compliance with government regulations and guidelines.
Monitoring and reporting programs for environmental health and safety performance in day‐to‐day operations, as well as inspections
and assessments, are designed to provide assurance that to the best of the Company’s ability, environmental and regulatory standards
are met.
Staffing
Pine Cliff functions in a very competitive environment for professional staff, and this staff is key to the Company’s ultimate success.
Recognizing this, Pine Cliff’s board of directors approved a competitive compensation program including bonuses based on the annual
performance of the Company, benefits and a stock option program to provide for long‐term incentives and to retain staff.
To date, Pine Cliff has found that it has been able to attract qualified individuals to complement its existing team and to build strength
in areas where required.
Fiscal Environment
The oil and gas and minerals industries are subject to payments to various levels of government, predominantly corporate income
taxes to the federal and provincial governments and royalties to provincial governments. In recent years, while the corporate income
tax regime has been stable, the royalty regime has not been. A series of changes have had at times both positive and negative effects,
but have certainly served to emphasize the materiality of this risk. There is potential for additional future changes to the taxation and
royalty regime in Alberta and Saskatchewan and corresponding changes in other jurisdictions where Pine Cliff may operate has created
uncertainty surrounding the ability to accurately estimate future taxation and royalties, resulting in additional volatility and
uncertainty in the oil and gas market. As a single company, we have no ability to mitigate this risk other than through geographic
diversification.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES
The preparation of Financial Statements in conformity with IFRS requires management to make judgments, assumptions and estimates
that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities.
Management believes that the most critical accounting policies that may have an impact on the Company’s financial results are those
that specifically relate to the accounting for its oil and gas interests, including amounts recorded for depletion and the impairment test
which are both based on estimates of proved and probable reserves, production rates, oil prices, future costs and other relevant
assumptions. Actual results could differ materially from such estimates.
Cash Generating Units
Cash Generating Units are defined as the lowest grouping of integrated assets that generate identifiable cash inflows that are largely
independent of the cash inflows of other assets or groups of assets. The classification of assets into CGUs requires significant judgment
and interpretations with respect to the integration between assets, the existence of active markets, external users, share
infrastructures and the way in which management monitors Pine Cliff’s operations.
Impairment indicators
Judgments are required to assess when impairment indicators exist and impairment testing is required. When assessing the
recoverability of petroleum and natural gas properties, each CGU’s carrying value is compared to its recoverable amount, defined as
the greater of its fair value less cost to sell and value in use. In determining the recoverable amount of assets, in the absence of quoted
market prices, impairment tests are based on reserve estimates, market value of undeveloped lands and other relevant assumptions.
Reserves
Petroleum and natural gas reserves are used in the calculation of depletion, impairment and impairment reversals and are depleted
on a unit of production basis at a rate calculated by reference to proved and probable reserves determined in accordance with NI 51‐
101 which incorporate the estimated future cost of developing and extracting those reserves. Reserve estimates and their resulting
cash flows are based on engineering data, probability assessments of reserve recoveries, future prices and costs, future production
rates, discount rates and the timing and extent of future capital expenditures, all of which are subject to many uncertainties and
interpretation. Management expects that over time Pine Cliff’s reserve estimates will be revised, either upward or downward, based
on updated information such as the results of future drilling, production costs, testing and production levels and changes to forward
petroleum and natural gas prices.
24
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
2017
Exploration and evaluation assets
The application of the Company’s accounting policy for E&E expenditures requires judgment in determining whether it is likely that
future economic benefit exists when activities have not reached a stage where technical feasibility and commercial viability can be
reasonably determined. Factors such as drilling results, future capital programs, future operating expenses, as well as estimated
reserves are considered. In addition, management uses judgment to determine when E&E assets are reclassified to PP&E.
Decommissioning provision
Decommissioning, abandonment and site reclamation expenditures will be incurred by the Company at the end of the operating life of
the Company’s facilities and properties. Decommissioning expenditures are uncertain and cost estimates can vary in response to many
factors including changes to relevant legal requirements, the emergence of new restoration techniques, experience at other production
sites, and changes to the credit‐adjusted risk‐free discount rate and expected inflation rate. The expected timing and amount of
expenditure can also change, for example, in response to changes in reserves or changes in laws and regulations or their interpretation.
As a result, there could be significant adjustments to the provisions established which would affect future financial results.
Deferred income taxes
The Company recognizes the net deferred tax benefit related to deferred tax assets to the extent that it is probable that the deductible
temporary differences will reverse in the foreseeable future. Assessing the recoverability of deferred tax assets requires the Company
to make significant estimates related to expectations of future taxable income. Estimates of future taxable income are based on forecast
cash flows from operating activities and the application of existing tax laws in each jurisdiction. To the extent that future cash flows
from operating activities and taxable income differ significantly from estimates, the ability of the Company to realize the net deferred
tax assets recorded at the reporting date could be impacted. Additionally, future changes in tax laws in the jurisdictions in which the
Company operates could limit the ability of the Company to obtain tax deductions in future periods.
Share‐based payments
All equity‐settled, share‐based awards issued by the Company are recorded at fair value using the Black‐Scholes option‐pricing model.
In assessing the fair value of equity‐based compensation, estimates have to be made regarding the expected volatility in share price,
option life, dividend yield, risk‐free rate and estimated forfeitures at the initial grant date.
Contingencies
By their nature, contingencies will only be resolved when one or more future events occur or fail to occur. The assessment of
contingencies inherently involves the exercise of significant judgment and estimates of the outcome of future events.
ACCOUNTING POLICY AND STANDARD CHANGES
The accounting policies and method of computation followed in the preparation of the Financial Statements are the same as those
followed in the preparation of the Annual Financial Statements.
Future accounting changes
IFRS 9 Financial Instruments (“IFRS 9”)
In July 2014, the IASB completed the final elements of IFRS 9. The standard supersedes earlier versions of IFRS 9 and completes the
IASB’s project to replace IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement ("IAS 39"). IFRS 9 introduces a single approach
to determine whether a financial asset is measured at amortized cost or fair value and replaces the multiple rules in IAS 39. The
approach is based on how an entity manages its financial instruments in the context of its business model and the contractual cash
flow characteristics of the financial assets. For financial liabilities, IFRS 9 retains most of the requirements of IAS 39; however, where
the fair value option is applied to financial liabilities, any change in fair value resulting from an entity’s own credit risk is recorded in
other comprehensive income rather than the statements of comprehensive loss. The Company has determined that adoption of IFRS 9
will not result in any changes to the classification of the Company’s financial assets or financial liabilities. The Company has also
determined there will not be any material changes in the measurement and carrying values of the Company’s financial instruments as
a result of the adoption of IFRS 9.
In addition, IFRS 9 introduces a new expected credit loss model for calculating impairment of financial assets, replacing the incurred
loss impairment model required by IAS 39. Pine Cliff has determined that the new impairment model will not result in material changes
to the valuation of its financial assets on adoption of IFRS 9. IFRS 9 also contains a new model to be applied for hedge accounting. The
Company does not currently apply hedge accounting to its risk management contracts and does not currently intend to apply hedge
25
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
2017
accounting to any of its existing risk management contracts on adoption of IFRS 9. The standard will come into effect for annual periods
beginning on or after January 1, 2018, with earlier adoption permitted. IFRS 9, as well as consequential amendments to IFRS 7 Financial
Instruments: Disclosures ("IFRS 7"), will be applied on a retrospective basis by Pine Cliff on January 1, 2018.
IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“IFRS 15”)
In April 2016, the IASB issued its final amendments to IFRS 15, which replaces IAS 18 Revenue, IAS 11 Construction Contracts, and
related interpretations. IFRS 15 provides a single, principles‐based five‐step model to be applied to all contracts with customers. The
standard requires an entity to recognize revenue to reflect the transfer of goods and services for the amount it expects to receive when
control is transferred to the purchaser. Disclosure requirements have also been expanded. The standard is required to be adopted
either retrospectively or using a modified retrospective approach for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018, with earlier
adoption permitted. Pine Cliff will retrospectively adopt IFRS 15 on January 1, 2018.
The Company has completed reviewing its various revenue streams and underlying contracts with customers. It has been concluded
that the adoption of IFRS 15 will not have a material impact on Pine Cliff's net income or financial position. However, Pine Cliff will
expand the disclosures in the notes to its Financial Statements as prescribed by IFRS 15, including disclosing the Company's
disaggregated revenue streams by product type and any impairment losses recognized on receivables arising from contracts with
customers.
IFRS 16 Leases (“IFRS 16”)
In January 2016, the IASB issued IFRS 16, which replaces IAS 17 Leases. IFRS 16 requires the recognition of lease assets and liabilities
on the balance sheet for most leases, where the entity is acting as a lessee. For lessees applying IFRS 16, the dual classification model
of leases as either operating leases or finance leases no longer exists, effectively treating all leases as finance leases. Certain short‐term
leases (less than 12 months) and leases of low‐value assets are exempt from the balance sheet recognition requirements, and may
continue to be treated as operating leases. Lessors will continue with the dual classification model for leases and the accounting for
lessors remains virtually unchanged.
The standard will come into effect for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019, with earlier adoption permitted if the
entity is also applying IFRS 15. IFRS 16 is required to be adopted either retrospectively or using a modified retrospective approach.
The modified retrospective approach does not require restatement of prior period financial information as it recognizes the cumulative
effect as an adjustment to opening retained earnings and applies the standard prospectively.
IFRS 16 will be applied by Pine Cliff on January 1, 2019. The Company is currently engaging and educating stakeholders and is
implementing corporate processes to ensure contract completeness to identify leases. Identifying, gathering and analyzing contracts
impacted by the adoption of the new standard will extend into 2018. The Company is currently assessing the impact of the standard
will have on its Financial Statements.
CONTROL ENVIRONMENT
Disclosure controls and procedures
Disclosure controls and procedures (“DC&P”), as defined in National Instrument 52‐109 Certification of Disclosure in Issuers’ Annual
and Interim Filings, are designed to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in the Company’s annual
filings, interim filings or other reports filed, or submitted by the Company under securities legislation is recorded, processed,
summarized and reported within the time periods specified under securities legislation and include controls and procedures designed
to ensure that information required to be so disclosed is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Chief Executive
Officer (“CEO”) and the Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”), as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. The
CEO and the CFO of Pine Cliff evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s DC&P. Based on that evaluation,
the CEO and CFO concluded that Pine Cliff’s DC&P were effective as at December 31, 2017.
Internal control over financial reporting
Internal control over financial reporting (“ICFR”), as defined in National Instrument 52‐109, includes those policies and procedures
that:
Pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect transactions and dispositions of
assets of Pine Cliff.
Are designed to provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of Financial
Statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and that receipts and expenditures of Pine Cliff are
being made in accordance with authorizations of management of Pine Cliff.
26
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
2017
Are designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or
disposition of the Company’s assets that could have a material effect on the Financial Statements.
The CEO and CFO have designed, or caused to be designed under their supervision, ICFR as defined in National Instrument 52‐109 of
the Canadian Securities Administrators, in order to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and
the preparation of Financial Statements for external purposes in accordance with IFRS. The control framework the Company used to
design its ICFR was in accordance with the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO 2013”).
The Company’s CEO and CFO have evaluated, or caused to be evaluated under their supervision, the effectiveness of the Company’s
internal controls over financial reporting at the financial period end of the Company and concluded that such internal controls over
financial reporting are effective. It should be noted that while Pine Cliff’s CEO and CFO believe that the Company’s internal controls
and procedures provide a reasonable level of assurance and are effective, however they do not expect that these controls will prevent
all errors and fraud. A control system, no matter how well conceived or operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance
that its objectives are met.
NON‐GAAP MEASURES
This MD&A uses the terms “funds flow from operations”, “operating netbacks”, “corporate netbacks” and “net debt” which are not
recognized measures under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. The Company uses
these measures to evaluate its performance, leverage and liquidity. These measures should not be considered as an alternative to, or
more meaningful than, IFRS measures including net income (loss), cash flows from operating activities, or total liabilities.
Funds Flow from Operations
The Company considers funds flow from operations a key performance measure as it demonstrates the Company’s ability to generate
the funds necessary to repay debt and fund future growth through capital investment. Funds flow from operations and funds flow
from operations per share and per Boe or Mcfe should not be considered as an alternative to, or more meaningful than, cash flow from
operating activities presented on the statement of cash flows which is considered the most directly comparable measure under IFRS.
Funds flow from operations is calculated as cash flow from operating activities before changes in non‐cash working capital and
decommissioning obligations settled. Funds flow from operations per share is calculated using the same weighted average number of
shares outstanding as in the case of the earnings per share calculation for a reporting period. Funds flow from operations per Boe or
Mcfe is calculated using the sales volumes reported for a reporting period. Our method of calculating this measure may differ from
other companies, and accordingly, it may not be comparable to measures used by other companies.
($000s)
2017
2016 % Change
2017
2016 % Change
Three months ended December 31,
Year ended December 31,
Cash flow from operating activities
Adjusted by:
Change in non‐cash working capital
Decommissioning obligation settled
Funds flow from operations
Funds flow from operations ($/Boe)
Funds flow from operations ($/Mcfe)
Funds flow from operations – basic and
diluted ($/share)
Operating and Corporate Netback
(4,350)
12,632
(134)
25,009
22,489
11
6,891
1,218
3,759
1.90
0.32
0.01
2,290
104
15,026
7.59
1.27
0.05
201
1,071
(75)
(75)
(75)
(80)
1,313
2,383
28,705
3.68
0.61
0.09
(3,027)
279
19,741
2.39
0.40
0.06
(143)
754
45
54
54
50
The Company considers operating netback to be a key indicator of profitability relative to current commodity prices. Operating
netback and operating netback per Boe and per Mcfe are calculated as the sum of oil and gas sales and realized hedging gain, less
royalties, transportation and operating expenses on an absolute and a per Boe or per Mcfe basis, respectively. Company management
uses operating netback on a per Boe basis in operational and capital allocation decisions.
The Company considers corporate netback to be a key indicator of overall profitability. Corporate netback on an absolute dollar and
corporate netback per Boe and per Mcfe are calculated as operating netback, less G&A and interest expense plus dividend income.
Pine Cliff uses these measures to assist in understanding the Company’s ability to generate positive cash flows from operating activities
at current commodity prices and it provides an analytical tool to benchmark changes in operational performance against prior periods.
27
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
2017
Readers are cautioned, however, that these measures should not be construed as an alternative to other terms such as net income
determined in accordance with IFRS as a measure of performance. Pine Cliff’s method of calculating these measures may differ from
other companies, and accordingly, it may not be comparable to measures used by other companies.
($ per Boe, unless otherwise indicated)
Oil and gas sales
Realized hedging gain
Royalty income
Royalty expense
Transportation costs
Operating expenses
Operating netback
General and administrative
Interest and bank charges, net of
dividend income
Corporate netback
Operating netback ($ per Mcfe)
Corporate netback ($ per Mcfe)
Net Debt
Three months ended December 31,
Year ended December 31,
2017
2016
$ Change
2017
2016
$ Change
13.85
0.65
‐
(1.06)
(1.34)
(9.25)
2.85
(0.55)
19.35
‐
‐
(1.59)
(0.77)
(8.18)
8.81
(0.47)
(0.40)
(0.75)
1.90
0.48
0.32
7.59
1.47
1.27
(5.50)
0.65
‐
0.53
(0.57)
(1.07)
(5.96)
(0.08)
0.35
(5.69)
(0.99)
(0.95)
15.48
0.52
‐
(1.30)
(1.12)
(8.70)
4.88
(0.76)
14.41
‐
0.13
(1.07)
(0.98)
(8.41)
4.08
(0.85)
(0.44)
(0.84)
3.68
0.81
0.61
2.39
0.68
0.40
1.07
0.52
(0.13)
(0.23)
(0.14)
(0.29)
0.80
0.09
0.40
1.29
0.13
0.21
The Company considers net debt to be a key indicator of leverage. Net debt is calculated as the sum of bank debt, amounts due to
related party, subordinated promissory notes and trade and other payables less trade and other receivables, cash, prepaid expenses
and deposits, and investments as shown in the table below:
($000s)
Bank debt
Due to related party – due July 29, 2018
Subordinated promissory notes – due July 29, 2018
Subordinated promissory notes – due September 30, 20201
Trade and other payables
Less:
Trade and other receivables
Cash
Prepaid expenses and deposits
Investments
Net debt
Year ended December 31,
2017
18,000
5,000
6,000
30,000
17,288
(15,148)
(1,075)
(3,882)
(2,545)
53,638
2016
30,851
5,000
6,000
30,000
21,319
(20,012)
(148)
(3,491)
(5,295)
64,224
$ Change
(12,851)
‐
‐
‐
(4,031)
4,864
(927)
(391)
2,750
(10,586)
1 The subordinated promissory notes for net debt are presented at the principal amount.
Net debt is not a recognized measure under IFRS and Pine Cliff’s method of calculating this measure may differ from other companies,
and accordingly, it may not be comparable to measures used by other companies.
28
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
2017
FORWARD‐LOOKING INFORMATION
Certain statements contained in this MD&A include statements which contain words such as “anticipate”, “could”, “should”, “expect”,
“seek”, “may”, “intend”, “likely”, “will”, “believe” and similar expressions, statements relating to matters that are not historical facts,
and such statements of our beliefs, intentions and expectations about developments, results and events which will or may occur in the
future, constitute “forward‐looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and are based on
certain assumptions and analysis made by us derived from our experience and perceptions. Forward‐looking information in this
MD&A includes, but is not limited to: expected production levels, expected operating costs, expected transportation costs, royalty and
G&A levels; future capital expenditures, including the amount and nature thereof; future acquisition opportunities including Pine Cliff’s
ability to execute on those opportunities; future drilling opportunities and Pine Cliff’s ability to generate reserves and production from
the undrilled locations; ability to implement a dividend or buy back shares; oil and natural gas prices and demand; expansion and other
development trends of the oil and natural gas industry; business strategy and guidance; expansion and growth of our business and
operations; amounts drawn on Pine Cliff’s credit facility and repayment thereof; amounts due to related party and due pursuant to
subordinated promissory notes and repayment thereof; maintenance of existing customer, supplier and partner relationships; supply
channels; accounting policies; risks; Pine Cliff’s ability to generate cash flows from operating activities and free cash flows from
operating activities; and other such matters.
All such forward‐looking information is based on certain assumptions and analyses made by us in light of our experience and
perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors we believe are
appropriate in the circumstances. The risks, uncertainties and assumptions are difficult to predict and may affect operations, and may
include, without limitation: foreign exchange fluctuations; equipment and labour shortages and inflationary costs; general economic
conditions; industry conditions; changes in applicable environmental, taxation and other laws and regulations as well as how such
laws and regulations are interpreted and enforced; the ability of oil and natural gas companies to raise capital; the effect of weather
conditions on operations and facilities; the existence of operating risks; volatility of oil and natural gas prices; oil and gas product
supply and demand; risks inherent in the ability to generate sufficient cash flows from operating activities to meet current and future
obligations; increased competition; stock market volatility; opportunities available to or pursued by us; and other factors, many of
which are beyond our control. The foregoing factors are not exhaustive.
Actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, this forward‐looking
information and, accordingly, no assurance can be given that any of the events anticipated by the forward‐looking information will
transpire or occur, or if any of them do, what benefits will be derived there from. Except as required by law, Pine Cliff disclaims any
intention or obligation to update or revise any forward‐looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or
otherwise.
Undrilled locations consist of drilling and recompletion locations booked in the independent reserve report dated February 12, 2018
prepared by McDaniel & Associates Consultants Limited and unbooked drilling and recompletion locations. Unbooked drilling and
recompletion locations are internal estimates based on evaluation of geologic, reserves and spacing based on industry practice. There
is no guarantee that Pine Cliff will drill these locations and there is no certainty that the drilling or completing of these locations will
result in additional reserves and production or achieve expected internal rates of return. Pine Cliff activity depends on availability of
capital, regulatory approvals, commodity prices, drilling costs and other factors.
Natural gas liquids and oil volumes are recorded in barrels of oil (“Bbl”) and are converted to a thousand cubic feet equivalent (“Mcfe”)
using a ratio of one (1) Bbl to six (6) thousand cubic feet. Natural gas volumes recorded in thousand cubic feet (“Mcf”) are converted
to barrels of oil equivalent (“Boe”) using the ratio of six (6) thousand cubic feet to one (1) Bbl. This conversion ratio is based on energy
equivalence primarily at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. The terms Boe or Mcfe may be
misleading, particularly if used in isolation.
Given that the value ratio based on the current price of crude oil as compared to natural gas is significantly different from the energy
equivalency of oil, utilizing a conversion on a 6:1 basis may be misleading as an indication of value.
The forward‐looking information contained in this MD&A is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.
29
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
MANAGEMENT’S RESPONSIBILITY FOR FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2017
Management is responsible for the preparation and presentation of the consolidated financial statements together with all
operational and other financial information contained in the annual report. The consolidated financial statements have been
prepared by Management in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting
Standards Board and utilize the best estimates and careful judgments of Management where appropriate. Operational and other
financial information contained throughout the annual report is consistent with that provided in the consolidated financial
statements.
Management has developed and maintains a system of internal controls designed to provide reasonable assurance that all
transactions are accurate and reliably recorded, that the consolidated financial statements accurately report the Company’s
operating and financial results within acceptable limits of materiality, that all other operational and financial information presented
is accurate and that the Company’s assets are properly safeguarded.
The Audit Committee, comprised of non‐management directors, acts on behalf of the Board of Directors to ensure that Management
fulfills its financial reporting and internal control responsibilities. The Audit Committee meets regularly with Management and the
external auditors to discuss financial reporting and internal control matters and ensures each party is properly discharging its
responsibilities. The Audit Committee reviewed the consolidated financial statements with Management and the external auditors
and recommended approval to the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors has approved these consolidated financial statements.
The consolidated financial statements have been audited by Deloitte LLP, Chartered Professional Accountants, in accordance with
generally accepted auditing standards on behalf of the shareholders and have unlimited and unrestricted access to the Audit
Committee.
“Signed Philip B. Hodge”
“Signed Alan MacDonald”
Philip B. Hodge, President and Chief Executive Officer
Alan MacDonald, Interim Chief Financial Officer and
Corporate Secretary
30
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT
2017
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT
To the Shareholders of Pine Cliff Energy Ltd.
We have audited the accompanying consolidated financial statements of Pine Cliff Energy Ltd. (the “Company”), which comprise the
consolidated statements of financial position as at December 31, 2017 and 2016, and the consolidated statements of comprehensive
loss, consolidated statements of cash flows and consolidated statements of changes in equity for the years then ended, and a
summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory information.
Management's Responsibility for the Consolidated Financial Statements
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these consolidated financial statements in accordance with
International Financial Reporting Standards, and for such internal control as management determines is necessary to enable the
preparation of consolidated financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
Auditor's Responsibility
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits
in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards. Those standards require that we comply with ethical
requirements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements
are free from material misstatement.
An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial
statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor's judgment, including the assessment of the risks of material
misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor
considers internal control relevant to the entity's preparation and fair presentation of the consolidated financial statements in order
to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the
effectiveness of the entity's internal control. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and
the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated
financial statements.
We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained in our audits is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit
opinion.
Opinion
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Pine Cliff Energy
Ltd. as at December 31, 2017 and 2016, and its financial performance and its cash flows for the years then ended in accordance with
International Financial Reporting Standards.
“Signed Deloitte LLP”
Chartered Professional Accountants
March 13, 2018
Calgary, Canada
31
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2017
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION
(Canadian dollars, 000s)
ASSETS
Current assets
Cash
Trade and other receivables
Prepaid expenses and deposits
Investments
Total current assets
Exploration and evaluation
Property, plant and equipment
Deferred income taxes
Total assets
LIABILITIES
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables
Bank debt
Due to related party
Subordinated promissory notes
Decommissioning provision
Total current liabilities
Due to related party
Subordinated promissory notes
Decommissioning provision
Total liabilities
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Share capital
Warrants
Contributed surplus
Accumulated other comprehensive gain (loss)
Deficit
Total shareholders' equity
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity
Note
5, 16
7
8
9
10
4
11
12
13
14
13
14
15
As at December 31,
2016
2017
1,075
15,148
3,882
2,545
22,650
29,387
323,958
29,233
405,228
17,288
18,000
5,000
6,000
1,309
47,597
‐
29,307
199,231
276,135
268,743
958
9,326
(2,081)
(147,853)
129,093
405,228
148
20,012
3,491
5,295
28,946
33,610
379,643
49,698
491,897
21,319
30,851
‐
‐
‐
52,170
5,000
35,086
203,883
296,139
268,743
958
5,748
298
(79,989)
195,758
491,897
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
The financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors and signed on its behalf by:
“Signed George F. Fink”
George F. Fink, Director
32
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
“Signed Randy M. Jarock”
Randy M. Jarock, Director
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2017
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
(Canadian dollars, 000s except per share data)
Years ended December 31,
Note
2017
2016
REVENUE
Oil and gas sales
Royalty expense
Royalty income
Oil and gas sales, net of royalties
Gain on commodity contracts
Dividend income
Total revenue
EXPENSES
Operating
Transportation
Depletion and depreciation
Impairment
Share‐based payments
Finance
General and administrative
Gain on disposition
Realized loss on investments
Total expenses
Loss before income taxes
Deferred income tax recovery (expense)
LOSS FOR THE YEAR
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
Unrealized gain (loss) on investments
Deferred income taxes on unrealized loss on investments
Amounts reclassified from comprehensive loss
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) FOR THE YEAR, NET
OF TAX
TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE LOSS FOR THE YEAR
Loss per share ($)
Basic and diluted
5
9
8, 9
15
16
17
10
7
120,981
(10,152)
‐
110,829
4,037
210
115,076
68,029
8,733
49,150
17,800
3,578
8,899
5,915
‐
‐
162,104
(47,028)
(20,836)
(67,864)
(2,750)
371
‐
(2,379)
(70,243)
118,642
(8,821)
1,111
110,932
‐
120
111,052
69,250
8,068
64,387
4,648
3,196
12,305
6,959
(518)
4,270
172,565
(61,513)
11,126
(50,387)
345
(47)
6,253
6,551
(43,836)
15
(0.22)
(0.16)
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
33
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Canadian dollars, 000s)
CASH PROVIDED BY (USED IN):
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Loss for the year
Items not affecting cash:
Depletion and depreciation
Impairment
Share‐based payments
Finance expenses
Gain on disposition
Loss on sale of investments
Deferred income tax expense (recovery)
Interest and bank charges
Decommissioning obligations settled
Changes in non‐cash working capital accounts
Cash provided by operating activities
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Property, plant and equipment
Exploration and evaluation
Acquisitions
Dispositions
Sale of investments
Changes in non‐cash working capital accounts
Cash provided by (used in) investing activities
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Bank debt
Issuance of Units, net of issue costs
Issuance of related party debt
Exercise of stock options
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2017
Note
2017
2016
Years ended December 31,
(67,864)
(50,387)
9
8, 9
15
16
10
16
14
16
9
8
9
16
49,150
17,800
3,578
8,899
‐
‐
20,836
(3,694)
(2,383)
(1,313)
25,009
(13,398)
(79)
62
429
‐
1,755
(11,231)
11
(12,851)
‐
‐
‐
‐
64,387
4,648
3,196
12,305
(518)
4,270
(11,126)
(7,034)
(279)
3,027
22,489
(9,032)
(127)
807
58,162
5,573
4,304
59,687
(125,087)
35,963
5,000
1,033
230
(12,851)
(82,861)
927
148
1,075
(685)
833
148
Changes in non‐cash working capital accounts
16
Cash used in financing activities
Increase (decrease) in cash
Cash ‐ beginning of year
CASH ‐ END OF YEAR
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
34
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2017
Deficit
(29,602)
‐
‐
(50,387)
‐
‐
‐
‐
Total
Equity
234,407
995
(37)
(50,387)
6,253
298
3,196
1,033
‐
995
(37)
‐
‐
‐
‐
‐
958
‐
(79,989)
(67,864)
195,758
(67,864)
(2,379)
‐
(2,081)
‐
‐
‐
‐
(2,379)
3,578
958
(147,853)
129,093
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
(Canadian dollars, 000s)
Note
Share
capital
Contributed
surplus1
Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income (loss) 2 Warrants
BALANCE AT JANUARY 1, 2016
Issuance of warrants
Share issue costs, net of tax
Loss for the year
Transfer of realized loss on sale of
investments
Unrealized loss on investments, net of
tax
Share‐based payments
Exercise of options
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2016
Loss for the year
Unrealized loss on investments, net of
tax
Share‐based payments
15
266,809
‐
‐
‐
3,453
‐
‐
‐
(6,253)
‐
‐
‐
‐
‐
6,253
298
‐
‐
298
‐
‐
‐
1,934
268,743
‐
‐
‐
‐
3,196
(901)
5,748
‐
‐
3,578
9,326
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2017
268,743
1Contributed surplus is comprised of share‐based payments.
2Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) is comprised of unrealized gains and losses on available‐for‐sale investments.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
35
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2017
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
As at December 31, 2017 and 2016 and for the years then ended
(all tabular amounts in Canadian dollars 000s, unless otherwise indicated)
1. NATURE OF BUSINESS
Pine Cliff Energy Ltd. (“Pine Cliff” or the “Company”) is a public company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”) and
incorporated under the Business Corporations Act (Alberta). The address of the Company’s registered office is Suite 850, 1015 ‐ 4th
Street SW, Calgary, Alberta, T2R 1J4.
Pine Cliff is engaged in the acquisition, exploration, development and production of oil and natural gas in the Western Canadian
Sedimentary Basin and conducts many of its activities jointly with others; these consolidated financial statements (the “Financial
Statements”) reflect only the Company’s proportionate interest in such activities.
2. BASIS OF PREPARATION
a) Statement of Compliance
The Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by
the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”).
The Financial Statements were authorized for issue by the Company’s board of directors on March 13, 2018.
b) Basis of measurement
The Financial Statements have been prepared on a historical cost basis, except for certain financial instruments and share‐based
payment transactions which are measured at fair value.
c) Use of judgments and estimates
The timely preparation of Financial Statements in conformity with IFRS requires management to make judgments, estimates and
assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses as
well as the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as at the date of the statement of financial position. Actual results could
differ materially from estimated amounts and affect the results reported in the Financial Statements. Estimates and underlying
assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognized in the year in which the estimates
are revised and in any future years affected.
Information about significant areas of estimation uncertainty in applying accounting principles that have the most significant effect
on the amounts recognized in the Financial Statements are included in the notes.
Judgments
In the process of applying Pine Cliff’s accounting policies, judgments, apart from those involving estimates, have been made, of which
the following may have the most significant effect on the amounts recognized in the Financial Statements:
Note 4 – Financial instruments
Note 8 – Exploration and evaluation assets (“E&E”)
Note 9 – Property, plant and equipment (“PP&E”)
Note 14 – Decommissioning provision
Note 15 – Share capital
Cash Generating Units
Cash Generating Units (“CGUs”) are defined as the lowest grouping of integrated assets that generate identifiable cash inflows that
are largely independent of the cash inflows of other assets or groups of assets. The classification of assets into CGUs requires
significant judgment and interpretations with respect to the integration between assets, the existence of active markets, external
users, share infrastructures and the way in which management monitors Pine Cliff’s operations.
Impairment indicators
Judgments are required to assess when impairment indicators exist and impairment testing is required. When assessing the
recoverability of petroleum and natural gas properties, each CGU’s carrying value is compared to its recoverable amount, defined as
36
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2017
the greater of its fair value less cost to sell and value in use. In determining the recoverable amount of assets, in the absence of
quoted market prices, impairment tests are based on reserve estimates, market value of undeveloped lands and other relevant
assumptions.
Estimates
Reserves
Petroleum and natural gas reserves are used in the calculation of depletion, impairment and impairment reversals and are depleted
on a unit of production basis at a rate calculated by reference to proved and probable reserves determined in accordance with
National Instrument 51‐101 Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities which incorporate the estimated future cost of
developing and extracting those reserves. Reserve estimates and their resulting cash flows are based on engineering data,
probability assessments of reserve recoveries, future prices and costs, future production rates, discount rates and the timing and
extent of future capital expenditures, all of which are subject to many uncertainties and interpretation. Management expects that
over time Pine Cliff’s reserve estimates will be revised, either upward or downward, based on updated information such as the
results of future drilling, production costs, testing and production levels and changes to forward petroleum and natural gas prices.
Exploration and evaluation assets
The application of the Company’s accounting policy for E&E expenditures requires judgment in determining whether it is likely that
future economic benefit exists when activities have not reached a stage where technical feasibility and commercial viability can be
reasonably determined. Factors such as drilling results, future capital programs, future operating expenses, as well as estimated
reserves are considered. In addition, management uses judgment to determine when E&E assets are reclassified to PP&E.
Decommissioning provision
Decommissioning, abandonment and site reclamation expenditures will be incurred by the Company at the end of the operating life
of the Company’s facilities and properties. Decommissioning expenditures are uncertain and cost estimates can vary in response to
many factors including changes to relevant legal requirements, the emergence of new restoration techniques, experience at other
production sites, and changes to the credit‐adjusted risk‐free discount rate and expected inflation rate. The expected timing and
amount of expenditure can also change, for example, in response to changes in reserves or changes in laws and regulations or their
interpretation. As a result, there could be significant adjustments to the provisions established which would affect future financial
results.
Deferred income taxes
The Company recognizes the net deferred tax benefit related to deferred tax assets to the extent that it is probable that the
deductible temporary differences will reverse in the foreseeable future. Assessing the recoverability of deferred tax assets requires
the Company to make significant estimates related to expectations of future taxable income. Estimates of future taxable income are
based on forecast cash flows from operating activities and the application of existing tax laws in each jurisdiction. To the extent that
future cash flows from operating activities and taxable income differ significantly from estimates, the ability of the Company to
realize the net deferred tax assets recorded at the reporting date could be impacted. Additionally, future changes in tax laws in the
jurisdictions in which the Company operates could limit the ability of the Company to obtain tax deductions in future periods.
Share‐based payments
All equity‐settled, share‐based awards issued by the Company are recorded at fair value using the Black‐Scholes option‐pricing
model. In assessing the fair value of equity‐based compensation, estimates have to be made regarding the expected volatility in share
price, option life, dividend yield, risk‐free rate and estimated forfeitures at the initial grant date.
Contingencies
By their nature, contingencies will only be resolved when one or more future events occur or fail to occur. The assessment of
contingencies inherently involves the exercise of significant judgment and estimates of the outcome of future events.
d) Presentation currency
The Company’s functional and presentation currency is the Canadian dollar. Monetary assets and liabilities are translated into
Canadian dollars at the rates prevailing on the reporting date. Non‐monetary assets and liabilities are translated into Canadian
dollars at the rates prevailing on the transaction dates. Exchange gains and losses are recorded as income or expense in the period in
which they occur.
37
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2017
3. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The accounting policies set out below have been applied consistently to all periods presented in the Financial Statements. Certain
comparative amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year’s presentation.
a) Basis of consolidation
The Financial Statements include the accounts of Pine Cliff and its subsidiary companies, Geomark Exploration Ltd. (“Geomark”),
Geomark Minerals USA Inc., WMC International Limited and Pine Cliff Border Pipelines Limited. All subsidiary companies are wholly
owned. All intercompany balances, transactions and earnings or losses are eliminated upon consolidation.
b) Revenue recognition
Revenues from the sale of petroleum and natural gas are recorded when the significant risks and rewards of ownership have been
transferred to the customer. Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable. Petroleum and
natural gas revenues are recognized when all of the following conditions have been satisfied:
Pine Cliff has transferred the significant risks and rewards of ownership of the production to the buyer which usually
occurs at the time petroleum or natural gas passes through a terminal point.
The amount of revenue can be measured reliably.
It is probable that the economic benefits associated with the transaction will flow to the Company.
The costs incurred or to be incurred in respect of the transaction can be reliably measured.
Dividend income is recorded when earned.
c) Foreign currency transactions
Items included in the Financial Statements of each consolidated entity are measured using the currency of the primary economic
environment in which the entity operates (the "Functional Currency"). Foreign currency transactions are translated into the
Functional Currency using the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transaction. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting
from the settlement of such transactions and from the translation of monetary assets and liabilities not denominated in the
Functional Currency of an entity are recognized in the consolidated statement of comprehensive loss.
d)
Joint arrangements
Pine Cliff conducts significant portions of its oil and gas operations through jointly controlled operations and the Financial
Statements reflect only the Company’s proportionate interest in such activities. Contractual arrangements for the Company’s jointly
controlled operations, whereby it does not have a 100% working interest, govern that the partners have rights to the assets and
obligations for the liability. It is possible that at some future date allocation adjustments to revenues and expenditures could result
from revised billings, audit or litigation with these other participants. Pine Cliff does not have any joint arrangements that are
individually material to the Company or that are structured through joint venture arrangements.
e) Cash
Cash is comprised of cash on hand and short‐term highly liquid investments that mature within three months of the date of their
purchase.
f)
Investments
Investments consist of equity securities classified on initial recognition as available‐for‐sale and are carried at fair value. Fair value is
determined by multiplying the period end trading price of the investments by the number of equity securities held as at period end.
Unrealized holding gains and losses are recognized in other comprehensive income or loss. Net gains and losses arising on disposal
are recognized in net earnings.
g) Exploration and evaluation assets
E&E costs are initially capitalized with the intent to establish commercially viable reserves.
E&E includes undeveloped land license acquisitions, un‐booked locations in acquisitions, exploration drilling and testing and directly
attributable general and administrative costs. Expenditures incurred prior to obtaining the legal right to explore are expensed as
incurred. E&E assets continue to be capitalized as long as sufficient progress is being made to assess the reserves and economic
viability of the well and/or related project. Once technical feasibility and commercial viability has been established, E&E assets are
38
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2017
transferred to PP&E. E&E assets are assessed for impairment either annually, upon transfer to PP&E or where indicators arise to
ensure they are not carried above their recoverable amounts.
h) Property, plant and equipment
PP&E assets include developed assets acquired, transferred‐in E&E costs, development drilling and other surface expenditures.
PP&E assets are carried at cost less accumulated depletion and depreciation and impairment losses. The initial cost of an asset is
comprised of its purchase price or construction cost, including expenditures such as drilling costs, the present value of the initial and
changes in the estimate of any decommissioning obligation associated with the asset, expenses on qualifying assets and costs that are
directly attributable to bringing the asset to the location and condition necessary to operate as intended by management and which
result in an identifiable future benefit. Improvements that increase capacity or extend the useful lives of the assets are capitalized.
Expenditures on major maintenance of producing assets include the cost of replacement assets or parts of assets, inspection costs,
turnaround costs, or overhaul costs. Where an asset, or part of an asset that was separately depreciated, is replaced and it is
probable that there are future economic benefits associated with the item, the expenditure is capitalized and the carrying amount of
the replaced item is derecognized. Inspection costs associated with major maintenance programs and necessary for continued
operation of the asset are capitalized and amortized over the period to the next inspection. All other maintenance costs are expensed
as incurred.
i) Depletion and depreciation
When commercial production has commenced in an area, PP&E assets, including estimated future development costs, are depleted
using the unit‐of‐production method over their proved plus probable reserve life. Furniture, fixtures and other equipment are
depreciated over their estimated useful lives on a straight line basis. Overhauls and turnarounds are depreciated over their expected
life on unit of production. Depletion and depreciation is recognized in the consolidated statement of comprehensive loss.
Depletion and depreciation methods, useful lives and residual values are reviewed annually, with any amendments considered to be
changes in estimates and accounted for prospectively.
j)
Impairment of E&E and PP&E
The carrying amounts of the Company's E&E and PP&E assets are reviewed at the end of each reporting period to determine whether
there is any indication of impairment. If such indication exists, then the assets’ carrying amounts are assessed for impairment. For
the purpose of impairment testing, assets that are not evaluated individually are grouped together into CGUs.
The recoverable amount of an asset or a CGU is the greater of its value‐in‐use and its fair value. An impairment loss is recognized if
the carrying amount of an asset or its CGU exceeds its recoverable amount. In assessing the carrying value of its unproved
properties, the Company takes into account future plans for those properties, the remaining terms of the leases and other factors that
may be indicators of potential impairment. Impairment losses are recognized in the consolidated statement of loss. Impairment
losses recognized in respect of a CGU are allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to the CGU and then
to reduce the carrying amount of the other assets of the CGU on a pro‐rata basis.
For assets excluding goodwill, impairment losses recognized in prior periods are assessed at each reporting date for any indications
that the loss has decreased or no longer exists. If the amount of the impairment loss decreases in a subsequent period and the
decrease can be objectively related to an event occurring after the impairment was recognized, the impairment loss is reversed only
to the extent that the asset’s carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined, net of
depletion and depreciation, if no impairment loss had been recognized.
k)
Impairment of financial assets
A financial asset is considered to be impaired if objective evidence indicates that one or more events have had a negative effect on the
estimated future cash flows from operating activities of that asset. Significant financial assets are tested for impairment on an
individual basis. The remaining financial assets are assessed collectively in groups that share similar credit risk characteristics. An
impairment loss in respect of an available‐for‐sale financial asset is calculated by reference to its current fair value.
All impairment losses are recognized in the consolidated statement of comprehensive loss. An impairment loss is reversed if there is
an indicator that the impairment reversal can be related objectively to an event occurring after the impairment loss was recognized.
Any subsequent recovery of an impairment loss in respect of an investment in an equity instrument classified as available‐for‐sale is
reversed through other comprehensive loss instead of the statement of loss. For financial assets measured at amortized cost, the
reversal is recognized in the consolidated statement of comprehensive loss.
39
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2017
l) Decommissioning provision
The Company recognizes a decommissioning provision in the period in which it has a present legal or constructive liability and a
reasonable estimate of the amount can be made. On a periodic basis, management reviews these estimates, and changes, if any, are
prospectively applied. The decommissioning provision is recorded as a liability, with a corresponding increase to the carrying
amount of the related asset. The capitalized amount is depleted on a unit‐of‐production basis over the life of the associated proved
plus probable reserves. Periodic revisions to the liability specific discount rates, estimated timing of cash flows and/or to the
original estimated undiscounted costs can also result in change to the decommissioning provision. The decommissioning provision
is increased each reporting period with the passage of time as reported in the finance expenses as an accretion of decommissioning
liabilities expense and changes in the estimated future cash flows are capitalized. Actual costs incurred upon settlement of the
provision are recorded against the provision to the extent of the liability recorded and the remaining balance of the actual costs is
recorded in the consolidated statement of comprehensive loss.
m) Income taxes
Income tax is recognized in profit or loss, except to the extent that it relates to items recognized in other comprehensive loss or
directly in equity.
Current income tax is the expected tax on taxable income less adjustments to prior periods using tax rates enacted, or substantively
enacted as at the reporting date in jurisdictions where the Company operates.
Deferred income taxes are recognized based on temporary differences arising between the tax value of assets and liabilities and their
carrying amounts in the Financial Statements. Deferred tax liabilities are not recognized if they arise from the initial recognition of
goodwill and are not accounted for if they arise from the initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction other than a
business combination that at the time of the transaction affects neither accounting nor taxable income. Deferred income taxes are
calculated on the basis of the tax laws enacted or substantively enacted as at the reporting date and apply to when the related
deferred income tax asset is realized or the deferred income tax liability is settled. Current and deferred income tax assets and
liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to settle on a net basis and when such assets and liabilities relate to
income taxes imposed by the same taxation authority.
A deferred tax asset is recognized for unused tax losses, tax credits and deductible temporary differences to the extent that it is
probable that future taxable profits will be available against which they can be utilized. Deferred tax assets are reviewed at each
reporting date and are reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that the related tax benefit will be realized.
n) Share‐based payments
Under the Company’s stock option plan described in note 15, options to purchase common shares are granted to directors, officers,
employees, and consultants. The fair value of common share purchase options is calculated at the date of grant using the Black‐
Scholes option pricing model and that value is recorded as compensation expense over the vesting period of the option with an
offsetting credit to contributed surplus. At the end of each reporting period, the Company assesses for subsequent periods its
estimates of the number of awards that are expected to vest and recognizes the impact of the revisions in the consolidated statement
of comprehensive loss. Upon exercise of share purchase options, the proceeds received net of any transaction costs and the fair value
of the exercised share purchase options are credited to share capital.
The Company estimates future forfeitures for stock options and expenses stock options based on the Company’s estimate of stock
options expected to reach vesting. Any difference between the number of stock options expected to vest and the number of stock
options which actually vest is accounted for as a change in estimate when those stock options become vested or are forfeited before
vesting.
o) Financial instruments
Financial instruments are measured at fair value on initial recognition of the instrument and are classified into one of the following
five categories: fair‐value through profit or loss, loans and receivables, held‐to‐maturity investments, available‐for‐sale financial
assets and financial liabilities at amortized cost.
Cash is classified as fair‐value through profit or loss. Trade and other receivables, which are non‐derivative financial assets that have
fixed or determinable payment terms and are not quoted in an active market, are classified as financial assets at amortized cost and
reported at amortized cost. A provision for impairment of trade and other receivables is established when there is evidence that the
Company will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original terms of the receivables. Investments are classified as
available‐for‐sale which are measured at fair value. Trade and other payables, due to related party, subordinated promissory notes
and bank debt are classified as financial liabilities at amortized cost.
40
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2017
Subsequent measurement of financial instruments is based on their initial classification. Fair‐value through profit or loss financial
instruments are measured at fair value and changes in fair value are recognized in the statement of consolidated comprehensive loss.
Available‐for‐sale financial instruments are measured at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in other comprehensive
income until the instrument is derecognized or impaired at which time the cumulative loss that had been recognized in other
comprehensive income (loss) (“OCI”) is reclassified to earnings or loss. The remaining categories of financial instruments are
recognized at amortized cost using the effective interest method.
p) Risk management contracts
The Company is exposed to market risks resulting from fluctuations in commodity prices, foreign currency exchange rates and
interest rates in the normal course of its business. The Company may use a variety of instruments to manage these exposures. Risk
management contracts are included in current assets and liabilities except for those with maturities great than 12 months after the
end of the reporting period, which are classified as non‐current assets and liabilities. The Company has not designated any of its risk
management contracts as effective accounting hedges. Fair values of financial instruments are based on third party quotes or
valuations provided by independent third parties. Any realized gains or losses on risk management contracts are recognized in net
income (loss) in the period they occur.
q) Earnings (loss) per share
Basic per share amounts are calculated by dividing the earnings or loss attributable to common shareholders of the Company by the
weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the reporting period.
Diluted per share amounts are calculated similar to basic per share amounts except that the weighted average common shares
outstanding are increased to include additional common shares from the assumed exercise of dilutive share options. The number of
additional outstanding common shares is calculated by assuming that the outstanding in‐the‐money share options were exercised
and that the proceeds from such exercises were used to acquire common shares at the average market price during the reporting
period.
r) Finance expenses
Finance expenses are comprised of interest expenses and bank charges on borrowings and the accretion of decommissioning
liabilities and subordinated promissory notes. Interest expenses and bank charges are considered operating expenses on the
statement of cash flows. Borrowing costs incurred for the construction of qualifying assets are capitalized during the period of time
that is required to complete and prepare the assets for their intended use or sale. Qualifying assets are those assets that necessarily
take a substantial period of time to get ready for their intended use. All other borrowing costs are recognized in income or loss. The
capitalization rate used to determine the amount of borrowing costs to be capitalized is the weighted average interest rate applicable
to the Company’s outstanding borrowings during the period.
4. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Financial instruments and fair value measurement
Financial instruments of the Company consist of cash, trade and other receivables, investments, commodity contracts, trade and
other payables, due to related party, subordinated promissory notes, and bank debt. The carrying values of cash, trade and other
receivables, commodity contracts, and trade and other payables approximate their respective fair values due to their short‐term to
maturity. The carrying values of due to related party, subordinated promissory notes, and bank debt approximate their respective
fair values due to their interest rates reflecting current market conditions.
Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value are classified into levels, reflecting the method used to make the
measurements. Level 1 fair value measurements are based on quoted prices that are available in active markets for identical assets
or liabilities as of the reporting date. Active markets are those in which transactions occur in sufficient frequency and volume to
provide pricing information on an ongoing basis. Level 2 commodity contracts pricing inputs are other than quoted prices in active
markets included in Level 1. Prices in Level 2 are either directly or indirectly observable as of the reporting date. The fair value of
Pine Cliff’s commodity contracts are determined using pricing models that incorporate future price forecasts (supported by prices
from observable market transactions) and credit risk adjustments. Pine Cliff has no level 3 financial instruments. Assessment of the
significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment and may affect the placement within the fair value
hierarchy level.
The following table sets out the Company’s classification, carrying value and fair value of financial assets and liabilities as at
December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016:
41
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2017
December 31, 2017
December 31, 2016
Description
Cash
Trade and other receivables
Investments
Trade and other payables
Due to related party
Subordinated promissory notes
Bank debt
Carrying value
1,075
15,148
2,545
(17,288)
(5,000)
(35,307)
(18,000)
Fair value
1,075
15,148
2,545
(17,288)
(5,000)
(35,307)
(18,000)
Carrying value
148
20,012
5,295
(21,319)
(5,000)
(35,086)
(30,851)
Fair value
148
20,012
5,295
(21,319)
(5,000)
(35,086)
(30,851)
5. RISK MANAGEMENT
The Company is exposed to both financial and non‐financial risks inherent in the oil and gas business. Financial risks include:
commodity prices, interest rates, equity price, foreign exchange, credit availability and liquidity. Financial risks can be managed, at
least to a degree, through the utilization of financial instruments. Certain non‐financial risks can be mitigated through the use of
insurance and/or other risk transfer mechanisms, good business practices and process controls, while others must simply be borne.
All risks can have an impact upon the financial performance of the Company. The Company has several practices and policies in
place to help mitigate these risks.
Market Risk
Market risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows from operating activities of the Company’s financial instruments will
fluctuate because of changes in market prices. Components of market risk to which Pine Cliff is exposed are discussed below.
Commodity Price Risk
The Company is exposed to commodity price risk since its revenues are dependent on the prices of crude oil and natural gas.
Commodity prices have fluctuated widely during recent years due to global and regional factors including, but not limited to, supply
and demand, inventory levels, weather, economic changes and geopolitical factors and instability. Changes in oil and natural gas
prices may have a significant effect, positively or negatively, on the ability of the Company to meet its obligations, capital spending
targets and expected operational results. A material decline or extended period of low oil or natural gas prices could result in a
reduction of net production revenue. The economics of producing from some wells may change because of lower prices, which could
result in reduced production of oil or natural gas and a reduction in the volumes of Pine Cliff’s reserves. Management may also elect
not to produce from certain wells at lower prices.
In 2017, the Company entered into physical fixed price natural gas sales contracts to mitigate its exposure to fluctuations in natural
gas prices. Pine Cliff’s loss has been reduced by a realized gain on commodity contracts during the year ended December 31, 2017 of
$4.0 million (December 31, 2016 ‐ $Nil).
Interest Rate Risk
The Company is principally exposed to interest rate risk to the extent it draws on its variable rate debt. Changes in market interest
rates could affect the cash flows from operating activities associated with variable rate debt. If interest rates applicable to Pine Cliff’s
variable rate debt increased or decreased by one percent, it is estimated that Pine Cliff’s loss for the year ended December 31, 2017,
would have increased or decreased, respectively, by $0.3 million (December 31, 2016 ‐ $0.4 million).
Equity Price Risk
Equity price risk refers to the risk that the fair value of investments will fluctuate due to changes in equity markets. Equity price risk
arises from the realizable value of investments that the Company holds which are subject to variable equity prices which on
disposition gives rise to cash flows from operating activities equity price risk.
Foreign Exchange Risk
The Company is exposed to foreign exchange risk because the oil and natural gas prices it receives are indirectly determined in
reference to United States dollar denominated commodity prices. The Company manages this risk by monitoring the foreign
exchange rate and evaluating its effect on cash flows from operating activities. Pine Cliff has not entered into any derivative financial
instruments to manage this risk.
42
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2017
Credit Risk
Credit risk is the risk that a third party will not complete its contractual obligations under a financial instrument and cause the
Company to incur a financial loss. Pine Cliff’s maximum exposure to credit risk is the sum of the carrying values of its trade and other
receivables, commodity contracts and cash, which are a reflection of management’s assessment of the associated maximum exposure
to such credit risk.
To mitigate the credit risk on its cash, the Company maintains its cash balances with major Canadian chartered banks. To mitigate
the credit risk on trade and other receivables and commodity contracts, Pine Cliff assesses the financial strength of its counterparties
and enters into relationships with larger purchasers with established credit histories.
The Company’s trade and other receivables balance at December 31, 2017 of $15.1 million (December 31, 2016 – $20.0 million), is
primarily with oil and gas marketers, joint venture partners and crown royalty credits with the Province of Alberta. Amounts due
from these parties have generally been received within 30 to 60 days. When determining whether amounts that are past due are
collectible, management assesses the creditworthiness and past payment history of the counterparty, as well as the nature of the past
due amount. The Company generally considers amounts greater than 90 days to be past due. As at December 31, 2017, there was
$0.5 million (December 31, 2016 ‐ $1.8 million) of trade and other receivables over 90 days. Pine Cliff assesses its trade and other
receivables quarterly to determine if there has been any impairment. During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company
recorded $0.2 million (December 31, 2016 ‐ $0.5 million) of bad debt expense against trade and other accounts receivables.
Liquidity Risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that Pine Cliff will not be able to meet its financial obligations as they become due. Pine Cliff manages its
liquidity risk through actively managing it capital, which it defines as cash, debt and equity. Capital management strategies include
continuously monitoring forecasted and actual cash flows from operating, financing and investing activities, available credit under
the Credit Facility, as defined in note 11, and opportunities to issue additional equity. Pine Cliff actively monitors its credit and
working capital to ensure that it has sufficient available funds to meet its financial requirements at a reasonable cost. Management
believes that funds generated from these sources currently will be adequate to settle Pine Cliff’s financial liabilities.
The Company currently has a $45.0 million Credit Facility, of which $18.0 million was drawn at December 31, 2017. The unused
portion of the Credit Facility and cash provided by operating activities are expected to allow Pine Cliff to meet its financial liabilities,
as well as future capital requirements. There is a risk that the borrowing base of the Credit Facility could be reduced, which may
create liquidity risk, see Note 11. Additionally, Pine Cliff has a $5.0 million promissory note and a $6.0 million subordinated
promissory note that are both due on July 29, 2018, see Note 12 and Note 13 and if this Credit Facility along with the promissory
notes are not renewed it may create liquidity risk. If required, Pine Cliff will also consider additional short‐term financing or issuing
equity in order to meet its future liabilities.
The Credit Facility matures July 27, 2018. The lenders review the Credit Facility semi‐annually on May 31st and November 30th, with
the next review scheduled for May 31, 2018. In the event the Credit Facility is not extended, indebtedness under the Credit Facility
will become due and repayable on July 28, 2018. There is also a risk that the Credit Facilities will not be renewed for the same
amount or on the same terms or that the lenders reduce the borrowing base as a result of their regularly scheduled borrowing base
review. Any of these events could affect Pine Cliff’s ability to fund ongoing operations.
6. FUTURE ACCOUNTING CHANGES
IFRS 9 Financial Instruments (“IFRS 9”)
In July 2014, the IASB completed the final elements of IFRS 9. The standard supersedes earlier versions of IFRS 9 and completes the
IASB’s project to replace IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement ("IAS 39"). IFRS 9 introduces a single
approach to determine whether a financial asset is measured at amortized cost or fair value and replaces the multiple rules in IAS 39.
The approach is based on how an entity manages its financial instruments in the context of its business model and the contractual
cash flow characteristics of the financial assets. For financial liabilities, IFRS 9 retains most of the requirements of IAS 39; however,
where the fair value option is applied to financial liabilities, any change in fair value resulting from an entity’s own credit risk is
recorded in other comprehensive income rather than the statements of comprehensive loss. The Company has determined that
adoption of IFRS 9 will not result in any changes to the classification of the Company’s financial assets or financial liabilities. The
Company has also determined there will not be any material changes in the measurement and carrying values of the Company’s
financial instruments as a result of the adoption of IFRS 9.
In addition, IFRS 9 introduces a new expected credit loss model for calculating impairment of financial assets, replacing the incurred
loss impairment model required by IAS 39. Pine Cliff has determined that the new impairment model will not result in material
changes to the valuation of its financial assets on adoption of IFRS 9. IFRS 9 also contains a new model to be applied for hedge
accounting. The Company does not currently apply hedge accounting to its risk management contracts and does not currently intend
43
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2017
to apply hedge accounting to any of its existing risk management contracts on adoption of IFRS 9. The standard will come into effect
for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018, with earlier adoption permitted. IFRS 9, as well as consequential
amendments to IFRS 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures, will be applied on a retrospective basis by Pine Cliff on January 1, 2018.
IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“IFRS 15”)
In April 2016, the IASB issued its final amendments to IFRS 15, which replaces IAS 18 Revenue, IAS 11 Construction Contracts, and
related interpretations. IFRS 15 provides a single, principles‐based five‐step model to be applied to all contracts with customers. The
standard requires an entity to recognize revenue to reflect the transfer of goods and services for the amount it expects to receive
when control is transferred to the purchaser. Disclosure requirements have also been expanded. The standard is required to be
adopted either retrospectively or using a modified retrospective approach for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018,
with earlier adoption permitted. Pine Cliff will retrospectively adopt IFRS 15 on January 1, 2018. The Company has completed
reviewing its various revenue streams and underlying contracts with customers. It has been concluded that the adoption of IFRS 15
will not have a material impact on Pine Cliff's net income or financial position. However, Pine Cliff will expand the disclosures in the
notes to its Financial Statements as prescribed by IFRS 15, including disclosing the Company's disaggregated revenue streams by
product type and any impairment losses recognized on receivables arising from contracts with customers.
IFRS 16 Leases (“IFRS 16”)
In January 2016, the IASB issued IFRS 16, which replaces IAS 17 Leases. IFRS 16 requires the recognition of lease assets and
liabilities on the balance sheet for most leases, where the entity is acting as a lessee. For lessees applying IFRS 16, the dual
classification model of leases as either operating leases or finance leases no longer exists, effectively treating all leases as finance
leases. Certain short‐term leases (less than 12 months) and leases of low‐value assets are exempt from the balance sheet recognition
requirements, and may continue to be treated as operating leases. Lessors will continue with the dual classification model for leases
and the accounting for lessors remains virtually unchanged.
The standard will come into effect for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019, with earlier adoption permitted if the
entity is also applying IFRS 15. IFRS 16 is required to be adopted either retrospectively or using a modified retrospective approach.
The modified retrospective approach does not require restatement of prior period financial information as it recognizes the
cumulative effect as an adjustment to opening retained earnings and applies the standard prospectively.
IFRS 16 will be applied by Pine Cliff on January 1, 2019. The Company is currently engaging and educating stakeholders and is
implementing corporate processes to ensure contract completeness to identify leases. Identifying, gathering and analyzing contracts
impacted by the adoption of the new standard will extend into 2018. The Company is currently assessing the impact of the standard
will have on its Financial Statements.
7. INVESTMENTS
As at December 31, 2017, the Company had an investment of $2.5 million in one public dividend paying company.
Investments, December 31, 2016
Unrealized loss on investments
Investments, December 31, 2017
8. EXPLORATION AND EVALUATION
Exploration and evaluation assets:
Balance at December 31, 2015
Additions
Transfer to property, plant, and equipment
Impairment
Dispositions
Balance at December 31, 2016
Additions
Transfer to property, plant, and equipment
Balance at December 31, 2017
44
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
Oil and gas
properties
42,958
88
(1,176)
(4,648)
(6,643)
30,579
36
(4,302)
26,313
Mineral
properties
2,992
39
‐
‐
‐
3,031
43
‐
3,074
5,295
(2,750)
2,545
Total
45,950
127
(1,176)
(4,648)
(6,643)
33,610
79
(4,302)
29,387
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2017
E&E Impairment Assessment
In accordance with IFRS, an impairment test is performed if the Company identified an indication of impairment. At December 31,
2017, the Company determined that no indicators of impairment existed on its E&E assets and therefore an impairment test was not
performed.
At December 31, 2016, the Company recorded an impairment to E&E of $4.6 million relating to the Southern CGU as it was
determined that the assets would not become commercially viable at existing price forecasts and therefore the carrying amount
exceeded the recoverable amount.
9. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Cost:
Balance at December 31, 2015
Additions
Transfer from exploration and evaluation
Acquisitions
Dispositions
Decommissioning provision
Balance at December 31, 2016
Additions
Transfer from exploration and evaluation
Acquisitions
Dispositions
Decommissioning provision
Balance at December 31, 2017
Accumulated depletion and depreciation:
Balance at December 31, 2015
Depletion and depreciation
Dispositions
Balance at December 31, 2016
Depletion and depreciation
Impairment
Dispositions
Balance at December 31, 2017
Carrying value at:
December 31, 2016
December 31, 2017
Oil and gas
properties
638,000
8,842
1,176
(807)
(59,952)
(41,479)
545,780
13,396
4,302
(62)
(496)
(5,944)
556,976
Oil and gas
properties
(106,582)
(63,944)
4,001
(166,525)
(48,760)
(17,800)
67
(233,018)
Oil and gas
properties
379,255
323,958
Administrative
assets
1,314
190
‐
‐
‐
‐
1,504
2
‐
‐
‐
‐
1,506
Administrative
assets
(673)
(443)
‐
(1,116)
(390)
‐
‐
(1,506)
Administrative
assets
388
‐
Total
639,314
9,032
1,176
(807)
(59,952)
(41,479)
547,284
13,398
4,302
(62)
(496)
(5,944)
558,482
Total
(107,255)
(64,387)
4,001
(167,641)
(49,150)
(17,800)
67
(234,524)
Total
379,643
323,958
Acquisitions and Dispositions of Oil and Natural Gas Properties
Year ended December 31, 2017
Pine Cliff did not enter into any business combinations for the year ended December 31, 2017, and only completed minor property
acquisitions and dispositions during the year.
Year ended December 31, 2016
Disposition of royalty assets in June 2016
On June 29, 2016, Pine Cliff completed the disposition of fee title land and other minor overriding royalty interests (the “Royalty
Assets”). The Royalty Assets included 99,930 net fee title acres that were acquired in December 2015.
45
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
Net assets disposed:
Property and equipment
Gain on disposition
Consideration received:
Cash
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2017
24,164
518
24,682
24,682
Disposition of non‐core oil assets in September 2016
On September 12, 2016 the Company disposed of certain non‐core oil assets located in Central Alberta. The net assets sold and the
sales proceeds received consisted of:
Net assets disposed:
Property and equipment
Exploration and evaluation assets
Decommissioning liabilities
Consideration received:
Cash
Disposition of non‐core oil assets in December 2016
5,149
980
(751)
5,378
5,378
On December 7, 2016 the Company disposed of certain non‐core oil assets located in Central Alberta. The net assets sold and the
sales proceeds received consisted of:
Net assets disposed:
Property and equipment
Exploration and evaluation assets
Decommissioning liabilities
Consideration received:
Cash
Common shares in TSX listed acquirer
PP&E Impairment Assessment
35,696
5,618
(9,642)
31,672
26,722
4,950
31,672
During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company had four Cash Generating Units (“CGU”), the Southern CGU, the Central Gas
CGU, the Edson CGU, and the Coal Bed Methane CGU. The Company reviewed each CGU’s property and equipment at each reporting
period during the year ended December 31, 2017 for indicators of impairment and determined that an indicator related to the
decrease in future commodity prices was present at September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2017. The Company prepared estimates
of both the value in use and fair value less cost to sell of each of the Company’s CGUs. When it is determined that any CGU carrying
value exceeds its recoverable amount, that CGU is considered impaired and an impairment expense is reported that equals this
excess.
The following table outlines forecast benchmark prices and exchange rates used in the Company’s impairment test as at December
31, 2017:
Year WTI Oil (US$/Bbl)1
58.50
2018
58.70
2019
2020
62.40
2021
69.00
2022
73.10
2023‐2032
81.60
Thereafter
+2%/yr
$C to US$ Foreign
exchange rate1
1.27
1.27
1.25
1.21
1.18
1.18
1.18
Edmonton Light Crude
Oil (Cdn$/Bbl) 1
70.10
71.30
74.90
80.50
82.80
AECO Gas
(Cdn$/MMBtu) 1
2.25
2.65
3.05
3.40
3.60
92.43 4.02
+2%/yr
+2%/yr
1 Source: McDaniel & Associates Consultants Ltd. price forecasts, effective January 1, 2018.
46
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2017
The recoverable amounts of each of the Company’s CGU’s at September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2017 were estimated at their fair
value less cost to sell, based on the net present value of discounted future cash flows from operating activities from oil and gas
reserves as estimated by the Company’s independent reserves evaluator at December 31, 2017. The fair value less costs to sell used
to determine the recoverable amounts are classified as Level 3 fair value measurements as certain key assumptions are not based on
observable market data, but rather, the Company’s management best estimates.
The Company used a pre‐tax 15% discount rate for the September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2017 impairment tests which took
into account risks specific to the CGU’s and inherent in the oil and gas business. The impairment testing concluded that the fair value
less costs to sell for the Company’s CGU’s at December 31, 2017 are greater than the carrying amounts, however, testing concluded
that the fair value less cost to sell was less than the carrying amount for the Edson CGU and Coal Bed Methane CGU at September 30,
2017 and impairment was recorded.
The following CGU’s were impaired as at December 31, 2017:
CGUs
Edson
Coal Bed Methane
Total Impairment
10. DEFERRED INCOME TAXES
2017
14,000
3,800
17,800
2016
‐
‐
‐
At December 31, 2017, a deferred income tax asset of $29.2 million (December 31, 2016 ‐ $49.7 million) has been recognized as the
Company believes, based on estimated cash flows, its realization is probable within the allowable timeframes.
Deferred income tax assets (liabilities):
Share issue costs
Investment
Decommissioning provision
Property and equipment
Capital losses carried forward
Non‐capital losses carried forward
Asset before unrecognized deferred income tax
Less: unrecognized deferred income tax
Net deferred income tax asset
2017
863
324
54,044
(15,124)
155
22,271
62,533
(33,300)
29,233
As at December 31,
2016
1,341
(47)
55,981
(24,710)
155
20,980
53,700
(4,002)
49,698
As at December 31, 2017, a deferred income tax asset has not been recognized on $33.3 million (December 31, 2016 ‐ $4.0 million) of
deductible temporary differences as it is not probable that future taxable net income will be available against which the Company can
utilize the benefits.
Pine Cliff has approximately $383.0 million in tax pools as at December 31, 2017 (December 31, 2016 ‐ $407.9 million), available for
future use as deductions from taxable income. Included in the Company’s tax pools are estimated non‐capital loss carry‐forwards of
$82.6 million (December 31, 2016 ‐ $77.7 million) that expire between the years 2030 and 2037.
Income tax expense differs from that which would be expected from applying the effective Canadian federal and provincial tax rates
to income before income taxes as follows:
Loss before income taxes
Corporate income tax rate
Computed income tax recovery
Non‐taxable dividends
Non‐deductible compensation expense
Changes in tax rate
Changes in the unrecorded benefit of tax pools
Realized loss on sale of investments
Return to provision true‐up
Other
Deferred income tax expense (recovery)
47
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
2017
(47,028)
27%
(12,676)
(57)
964
(31)
29,689
‐
2,910
37
20,836
Years ended December 31,
2016
(61,513)
27%
(16,609)
(28)
863
‐
3,418
1,955
‐
(725)
(11,126)
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2017
11. BANK DEBT
As at December 31, 2017, the Company had a $45.0 million syndicated credit facility (the “Credit Facility”) with four Canadian
Financial Institutions (the “Syndicate”) (December 31, 2016 ‐ $60.0 million Credit Facility). The Credit Facility of $45.0 million
consists of a $30.0 million revolving syndicated credit facility and a $15.0 million revolving operating facility. Security consists of
floating demand debentures totaling $150.0 million and a general security agreement with first ranking over all current and acquired
properties. Amounts drawn under the Credit Facility at December 31, 2017, were $18.0 million (December 31, 2016 ‐ $30.9 million).
Borrowings under the Credit Facility bear interest at the Canadian prime rate plus 1.0% to 3.5% or the bankers’ acceptance rates
plus 2.0% to 4.5%, depending, in each case, on the ratio of consolidated debt to EBITDA, plus applicable standby fees. EBITDA is
calculated as earnings (loss) excluding depreciation, depletion, impairment and accretion, unrealized hedging gain, share based
payments, interest, taxes and other non‐cash items. The Credit Facility matures July 27, 2018, and if it is not renewed it will convert
to a one day term loan due on July 28, 2018. The Credit Facility is reviewed semi‐annually on May 31st and November 30th with the
next renewal scheduled for May 31, 2018. The Credit Facility has no fixed terms of repayment.
As at December 31, 2017, the Company had $2.0 million in letters of credit issued against its Credit Facility (December 31, 2016 ‐
$1.7 million). The Credit Facility does not contain any financial covenants but Pine Cliff is subject to non‐financial covenants under
its Credit Facility. Compliance with these covenants is monitored on a regular basis and as at December 31, 2017, Pine Cliff was in
compliance with all covenants.
12. DUE TO RELATED PARTY
Pine Cliff has a $5.0 million promissory note outstanding to the Company’s Chairman of the Board maturing on July 29, 2018 (“2018
Related Party Note”) that bears interest at 0.25% less than the monthly average effective interest rate paid on the Credit Facility
and is payable monthly. The 2018 Related Party Note can be repaid at any time without penalty and is secured by a $5.0 million
floating charge debenture over all of the Company’s assets and is subordinated to any and all claims in favor of the Credit Facility and
the holder of the Subordinated Promissory Notes due September 30, 2020. Interest paid on the 2018 Related Party Note for the year
ended December 31, 2017 was $0.2 million (December 31, 2016 ‐ $0.1 million).
13. SUBORDINATED PROMISSORY NOTES
Subordinated promissory notes due July 29, 2018:
Issued – July 29, 2016
Subordinated promissory notes due July 29, 2018, as at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016
Subordinated promissory notes due September 30, 2020:
Issued – August 10, 2016
Accretion expense
Subordinated promissory notes due September 30, 2020, as at December 31, 2016
Accretion expense
Subordinated promissory notes due September 30, 2020, as at December 31, 2017
Total subordinated promissory notes, as at December 31, 2016
Total subordinated promissory notes, as at December 31, 2017
Subordinated promissory notes due July 29, 2018
6,000
6,000
29,004
82
29,086
221
29,307
35,086
35,307
On July 29, 2016, the Company issued $6.0 million in promissory notes maturing on July 29, 2018 (“2018 Notes”) and bearing
interest at 0.25% less than the monthly average effective interest rate paid on the Credit Facility, payable monthly. The 2018 Notes
were issued to a shareholder and a relative of that shareholder of the Company, owning directly or by discretion and control, greater
than 10% of the Company’s outstanding Common Shares, as defined herein, and can be repaid at any time without penalty. The 2018
Notes are secured by $6.0 million of floating charge debentures over all of the Company’s assets and are subordinated to any and all
claims in favor of the Credit Facility and the 2020 Note holder, as defined herein.
Subordinated promissory notes due September 30, 2020
On August 10, 2016, the Company issued 30,000 units (“Units” or “Unit”) at a price of $1,000 per Unit for aggregate proceeds of
$30.0 million. Each Unit is comprised of: (i) one promissory note with a par value of $1,000 per note and bearing interest at 6.75%
per annum ("2020 Note"), which is payable semi‐annually; and (ii) 150 Common Share purchase warrants ("Warrants"). The 2020
Notes mature on September 30, 2020 and all or a portion of the principal amount outstanding can be repaid without penalty. The
2020 Notes are secured by a $30.0 million floating charge debenture over all of the Company’s assets and is subordinated to any and
48
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2017
all claims in favor of the Credit Facility. A total of 4.5 million Warrants were issued, entitling the holder to purchase one Common
Share for $1.38 until August 10, 2018.
The 2020 Notes were determined to be a hybrid instrument with an embedded derivative. The fair value of the debt component of
the 2020 Notes was determined on issuance to be 7.8%, using the effective interest rate method, by discounting future payments of
interest and principal with the residual value allocated to Warrants. The value of the debt will accrete up to the principal balance at
maturity.
14. DECOMMISSIONING PROVISION
The total future decommissioning provision of $200.5 million was estimated by management based on the Company’s working
interest and estimated costs to remediate, reclaim and abandon its wells, pipelines, and facilities and estimated timing of the costs to
be incurred in future periods.
At December 31, 2017, the estimated total undiscounted and uninflated amount required to settle the decommissioning liabilities
was $244.3 million (December 31, 2016 ‐ $240.2 million). The provision has been calculated assuming a 1.72% inflation rate
(December 31, 2016 – 1.76%). These obligations are currently expected to be settled based on the useful lives of the underlying
assets, some of which extend beyond 35 years into the future. This amount has been discounted using an average risk‐free interest
rate of 2.57% (December 31, 2016 – 2.39%).
Changes to decommissioning provision were as follows:
Decommissioning provision, January 1, 2016
Provisions related to dispositions
Provisions related to acquisitions
Increase relating to development activities
Decommissioning expenditures
Revisions (change in estimate and discount rates)
Accretion
Decommissioning provision, December 31, 2016
Increase relating to development activities
Provisions related to acquisitions
Decommissioning expenditures
Revisions (changes in estimates, inflation rate, and discount rates)
Accretion
Decommissioning provision, December 31, 2017
Less current portion of decommissioning provision
Non‐current portion of decommissioning provision
15. SHARE CAPITAL
Authorized
($000s)
240,452
(10,393)
505
301
(279)
(31,892)
5,189
203,883
99
261
(2,383)
(6,304)
4,984
200,540
(1,309)
199,231
The Company is authorized to issue an unlimited number of Common Shares (“Common Shares”) without nominal or par value. The
Company is also authorized to issue, in one or more series, an unlimited number of Class B Preferred Shares without nominal or par
value.
Issued
Issued and outstanding share capital continuity:
Balance, January 1, 2016
Exercise of options
Balance, December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2017
Stock Options
Common Shares
(000s)
305,192
1,884
307,076
Share capital
($000s)
266,809
1,934
268,743
The Company provides an equity settled stock option plan (the “Option Plan”) for its directors, employees and consultants. Under
the Option Plan, the Company may grant stock options up to 10% of outstanding Common Shares on the grant date. The term and
vesting period of the options granted are determined at the discretion of the Company’s board of directors. The exercise price of
49
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2017
each option granted equals the market price of the Company’s stock immediately preceding the date of grant and the option’s
maximum term is five years.
Stock options issued and outstanding:
Outstanding, January 1, 2016
Granted
Exercised
Expired
Forfeited
Outstanding, December 31, 2016
Granted
Expired
Forfeited
Outstanding, December 31, 2017
Exercisable, December 31, 2017
Options
(000s)
17,238
12,030
(1,884)
(3,471)
(1,140)
22,773
5,710
(4,839)
(2,328)
21,316
6,523
Exercise price:
$0.51 ‐ $0.99
$1.00 ‐ $1.48
$1.49 ‐ $1.97
Stock options
outstanding
(000s)
7,550
12,477
1,289
21,316
Weighted‐average
remaining term
(years)
2.1
1.8
0.4
1.8
Stock options
exercisable
(000s)
689
4,604
1,230
6,523
Weighted‐average
exercise price
($ per share)
1.23
1.12
0.55
1.43
1.22
1.20
0.78
1.19
1.32
1.06
1.16
Weighted‐average
remaining term
(years)
0.4
0.9
0.3
0.7
The Company records share‐based payment expense over the vesting period, based on the fair value of the options granted to
employees, directors and consultants. One third of the stock options granted vest annually on the first, second, and third
anniversaries of the grant date and expire one year after the vesting date. In the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company
granted 5,710,150 stock options (December 31, 2016 – 12,030,000) with a fair value of $0.26 (December 31, 2016 ‐ $0.39) per option
using the Black‐Scholes option pricing model using the following key assumptions:
Assumptions (weighted average):
Exercise price ($)
Estimated volatility of underlying common shares (%)
Expected life (years)
Risk‐free rate (%)
Forfeiture rate (%)
Expected dividend yield (%)
Years ended December 31,
2016
2017
0.86
0.78
57.6
50.2
3.0
3.0
0.6
0.8
3.9
3.9
0.0
0.0
Estimated volatility is measured as the standard deviation of expected share price returns based on statistical analysis of historical
daily share prices for a representative period.
Per Share Calculations
The average market value of the Common Shares for the purposes of calculating the dilutive effect of stock options and warrants was
based on quoted market prices for the period that the options were outstanding. In calculating the weighted average number of
diluted shares outstanding for the year ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, all stock options and warrants were excluded as they
were not dilutive.
Earnings per share calculation:
Numerator
Loss for the year
Denominator (000s)
Weighted‐average Common Shares outstanding –
basic and diluted
Loss per share – basic and diluted ($)
50
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
Years ended December 31,
2016
2017
(67,864)
(50,387)
307,076
(0.22)
306,329
(0.16)
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2017
16. SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION
Changes in non‐cash working capital:
Trade and other receivables
Prepaid expenses and deposits
Trade and other payables and accrued liabilities
Change related to:
Operating activities
Investing activities
Financing activities
Finance expenses:
Interest expense and bank charges
Non cash:
Accretion on decommissioning provision
Accretion on subordinated promissory notes
Total finance expenses
Years ended December 31,
2016
2017
4,864
(391)
(4,031)
442
(1,313)
1,755
‐
442
(3,539)
(241)
11,341
7,561
3,027
4,304
230
7,561
Years ended December 31,
2016
7,034
2017
3,694
4,984
221
8,899
5,189
82
12,305
Cash interest paid in the year ended December 31, 2017, was $2.6 million (December 31, 2016 ‐ $6.7 million). Dividends received
during the year ended December 31, 2017, were $0.2 million (December 31, 2016 –$0.1 million).
17. GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES
General and administrative expenses by nature were as follows:
General and administration expenses:
Staff expenses
Consultants
Public company expenses
Professional fees
Business development
Office and other costs
Bad debt expense
Overhead recoveries
Total general and administration expenses
18. KEY MANAGEMENT RENUMERATION
Years ended December 31,
2016
3,946
1,246
265
970
39
1,541
458
(1,506)
6,959
2017
4,988
81
129
836
37
1,892
200
(2,248)
5,915
Key management personnel are those persons, including all directors and officers, having authority and responsibility for planning,
directing and controlling the activities of the Company. In addition to their salaries, the Company also provides non‐cash benefits to
its directors and officers. Directors and officers also participate in the Option Plan. Director and officer compensation was as
follows:
Key management remuneration:
Short‐term benefits1
Share‐based payments2
Total key management remuneration
Years ended December 31,
2016
1,182
1,768
2,950
2017
1,809
1,580
3,389
1 Short‐term benefits includes the salary, other non‐cash short‐term benefits and directors fees paid to Pine Cliff’s officers and directors.
2 Share‐based payments computed for officers and the board of directors are included in Note 15 and include the fair value of awards expensed in the
year.
51
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2017
19. COMMITMENTS
As at December 31, 2017, the Company has the following commitments and other contractual obligations:
($000s)
Subordinated promissory notes1
Trade and other payables
Due to related party
Bank debt
Future interest
Operating leases
Transportation2
Total commitments and contingencies
1 Principal amount.
2 Firm transportation agreements.
20. CAPITAL STRUCTURE
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
Thereafter
6,000
17,288
5,000
18,000
2,760
1,061
8,804
58,913
‐
‐
‐
‐
2,025
1,354
7,710
11,089
30,000
‐
‐
‐
1,519
706
7,152
39,377
‐
‐
‐
‐
‐
524
6,070
6,594
‐
‐
‐
‐
‐
461
5,153
5,614
‐
‐
‐
‐
‐
461
15,313
15,774
The Company’s objectives when managing capital, which the Company defines to include shareholders’ equity and net debt, is to
ensure that it has the financial capacity, liquidity and flexibility to fund its capital program and acquisitions. As it is not unusual for
capital expenditures and acquisitions to exceed cash flows from operating activities in a given period, the Company is required to
maintain financial flexibility and liquidity to maintain an optimal capital structure to reduce the cost of capital. In order to maintain
or adjust the capital structure, the Company may issue debt, new shares or a combination thereof and make adjustments to its capital
investment programs.
The Company defines and computes its net debt as follows:
Bank debt
Due to related party
Subordinated promissory notes1
Trade and other payables and accrued liabilities
Less:
Trade and other receivables
Cash
Prepaid expenses and deposits
Investments
Net debt
Equity
2017
18,000
5,000
36,000
17,288
(15,148)
(1,075)
(3,882)
(2,545)
53,638
129,093
As at December 31,
2016
30,851
5,000
36,000
21,319
(20,012)
(148)
(3,491)
(5,295)
64,224
195,758
1 The subordinated promissory notes for net debt are presented at the principal amount.
The Company monitors the leverage in its capital structure and the strength of its balance sheet by reviewing its net debt to equity
ratio and its debt‐to‐funds flow from operations (cash flows from operating activities before changes in non‐cash working capital)
ratio. Debt‐to‐funds flow from operations and net debt do not have a specified meaning under IFRS and may not be comparable to
measures used by other companies.
As Pine Cliff’s oil and gas production increases, cash flows from operating activities are expected to increasingly provide the
necessary capital for oil and gas exploration and development activities. However, due to the potential impact of adverse changes in
commodity prices, production rates, capital efficiencies and material and service costs, Pine Cliff may not generate sufficient cash
flows from operating activities to entirely fund its planned oil and gas capital programs or future acquisitions. Accordingly, the
Company will continually evaluate the stage of development of its proved and producing reserves and the expected return on
investment of acquisitions and consider issuing equity and/or debt to provide additional financing to maintain appropriate net debt
and equity levels. The Company sets the amounts of capital in proportion to risk and manages to ensure the Company’s net debt to
equity ratio is less than one. Net debt to equity is computed as follows:
52
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2017
Net debt to equity ratio:
Net debt
Equity
Net debt to equity
2017
53,638
129,093
0.4
As at December 31,
2016
64,224
195,758
0.3
The Company considers funds flow from operations to be a key performance measure as it demonstrates the Company’s ability to
generate funds necessary to repay debt and to fund future growth through capital investment. Net debt‐to‐funds flow from
operations is computed as follows:
Net debt‐to‐funds flow from operations calculation:
Cash provided by operating activities
Increase (decrease) in non‐cash working capital
Decommissioning obligations settled
Funds flow from operations
Net debt
Net debt‐to‐funds flow from operations
2017
25,009
1,313
2,383
28,705
53,638
1.9
As at December 31,
2016
22,489
(3,027)
279
19,741
64,224
3.3
The Company’s financial objectives and strategy as described above have remained substantially unchanged over the reporting
periods. These objectives and strategy are reviewed on an annual basis. The Company believes its ratios are within reasonable
limits, in light of the relative size of the Company and its capital management objectives.
21. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
Commodity Price Risk Management Contracts
Subsequent to December 31, 2017, the Company entered into physical fixed price natural gas sales contracts to mitigate the exposure
to future fluctuations in natural gas prices. The table below summarizes outstanding fixed price natural gas sales contracts as at
March 13, 2018.
Physical Natural Gas Sales Contracts:
Contractual Term
April 1, 2018 to October 31, 2018
April 1, 2018 to October 31, 2018
April 1, 2018 to October 31, 2018
Delivery Point
DAWN2
DAWN2
TransGas3
Physical Delivery
Quantity (GJ/day)
4,000
4,000
3,000
Fixed Sale Price
($CAD/GJ)
$3.13
$2.97
$2.40
Fixed Sale Price
($CAD/Mcf)1
$3.29
$3.12
$2.52
1 Price has been converted from $/GJ to $/Mcf by multiplying by of 1.05.
2 Dawn Hub into Dawn Township, Ontario.
3 Subsidiary of SaskEnergy, Saskatchewan.
53
PINE CLIFF ENERGY LTD.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Gary J. Drummond
George F. Fink ‐ Chairman
Philip B. Hodge
Randy M. Jarock
William S. Rice
OFFICERS
Philip B. Hodge
President and Chief Executive Officer
Terry L. McNeill
Chief Operating Officer
Alan MacDonald
Interim Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary
Cheryne A. Lowe
Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary
Heather A. Isidoro
Vice President, Business Development
Christopher S. Lee
Vice President, Geology
HEAD OFFICE
850, 1015 – 4th Street SW
Calgary, Alberta T2R 1J4
Phone: (403) 269‐2289
Fax: (403) 265‐7488
CORPORATE INFORMATION
2017
REGISTRAR AND TRANSFER AGENT
Odyssey Trust Company of Canada
AUDITORS
Deloitte LLP
BANKERS
Toronto‐Dominion Bank
National Bank of Canada
Canadian Western Bank
Business Development Bank of Canada
STOCK EXCHANGE LISTING
TSX Exchange
Trading Symbol: PNE
WEBSITE
www.pinecliffenergy.com
INVESTOR CONTACT
info@pinecliffenergy.com