CONSOL Energy Inc. (NYSE: CEIX) shares surged over 6.66% in pre-market trading on November 6, 2024, following the company's impressive third-quarter earnings report. The coal producer reported record production levels, lowest cash costs in recent quarters, and a strong contracted position for 2025, driving investor optimism.
The company achieved a staggering coal production of 7.2 million tons in Q3 2024, up 18% year-over-year, while simultaneously reducing its cash cost of coal sold per ton to $35.85, the lowest since Q1 2023. This operational efficiency, coupled with resilient product demand, contributed to a net income of $96 million or $3.22 per diluted share.
Looking ahead, CONSOL Energy has secured contracts for approximately 18 million tons in 2025, driven by robust demand in the crossover metallurgical coal market, particularly in China and Southeast Asia. The company's high-quality product has proven attractive for blending with Australian coking coal, positioning it well for future growth.
Despite challenges such as equipment delivery delays at the Itmann complex and weak domestic demand due to low natural gas prices, CONSOL Energy generated a robust free cash flow of $122 million during the quarter. The company also made progress on its proposed merger with Arch Resources, obtaining necessary regulatory approvals and focusing on securing shareholder approval.
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