-----BEGIN PRIVACY-ENHANCED MESSAGE----- Proc-Type: 2001,MIC-CLEAR Originator-Name: webmaster@www.sec.gov Originator-Key-Asymmetric: MFgwCgYEVQgBAQICAf8DSgAwRwJAW2sNKK9AVtBzYZmr6aGjlWyK3XmZv3dTINen TWSM7vrzLADbmYQaionwg5sDW3P6oaM5D3tdezXMm7z1T+B+twIDAQAB MIC-Info: RSA-MD5,RSA, UsuFoihSEhmyZtsQqMZA7iWjIt9octqnpwepnt2HYL7/+oEfSvC1jKrBe//Mv6VA prVkQx8KVmvl/OOyCOC9MA== 0001193125-08-111564.txt : 20080512 0001193125-08-111564.hdr.sgml : 20080512 20080512164135 ACCESSION NUMBER: 0001193125-08-111564 CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE: 10-Q PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT: 7 CONFORMED PERIOD OF REPORT: 20080331 FILED AS OF DATE: 20080512 DATE AS OF CHANGE: 20080512 FILER: COMPANY DATA: COMPANY CONFORMED NAME: CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORP CENTRAL INDEX KEY: 0000895126 STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION: CRUDE PETROLEUM & NATURAL GAS [1311] IRS NUMBER: 731395733 STATE OF INCORPORATION: OK FISCAL YEAR END: 1231 FILING VALUES: FORM TYPE: 10-Q SEC ACT: 1934 Act SEC FILE NUMBER: 001-13726 FILM NUMBER: 08823564 BUSINESS ADDRESS: STREET 1: 6100 N WESTERN AVE CITY: OKLAHOMA CITY STATE: OK ZIP: 73118 BUSINESS PHONE: 4058488000 MAIL ADDRESS: STREET 1: 6100 NORTH WESTERN AVE CITY: OKLAHOMA CITY STATE: OK ZIP: 73118 10-Q 1 d10q.htm FORM 10-Q Form 10-Q
Table of Contents

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 10-Q

 

 

 

x

Quarterly Report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2008

 

¨

Transition Report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the transition period from              to             

Commission File No. 1-13726

 

 

Chesapeake Energy Corporation

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

 

Oklahoma   73-1395733

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

6100 North Western Avenue

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

  73118
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)

(405) 848-8000

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code

 

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  x    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

Large accelerated filer  x

  

Accelerated filer  ¨

Non-accelerated filer  ¨ (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

   Smaller reporting company  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  ¨    No  x

As of May 8, 2008, there were 540,394,957 shares of our $0.01 par value common stock outstanding.

 

 

 


Table of Contents

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

INDEX TO FORM 10-Q FOR THE QUARTER ENDED MARCH 31, 2008

 

          Page

PART I.

  

Financial Information

  

Item 1.

  

Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited):

  
  

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007

   1
  

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2008 and 2007

   3
  

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2008 and 2007

   4
  

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2008 and 2007

   6
  

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2008 and 2007

   7
  

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

   8

Item 2.

  

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

   23

Item 3.

  

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

   34

Item 4.

  

Controls and Procedures

   40

PART II.

  

Other Information

  

Item 1.

  

Legal Proceedings

   41

Item 1A.

  

Risk Factors

   41

Item 2.

  

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

   41

Item 3.

  

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

   41

Item 4.

  

Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

   41

Item 5.

  

Other Information

   41

Item 6.

  

Exhibits

   42


Table of Contents

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Unaudited)

 

     March 31,
2008
    December 31,
2007
 
     ($ in millions)  
ASSETS     

CURRENT ASSETS:

    

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 1     $ 1  

Accounts receivable

     1,278       1,074  

Short-term derivative instruments

     3       203  

Deferred income taxes

     520       1  

Inventory

     107       87  

Other

     37       30  
                

Total Current Assets

     1,946       1,396  
                

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT:

    

Natural gas and oil properties, at cost based on full-cost accounting:

    

Evaluated natural gas and oil properties

     29,317       27,656  

Unevaluated properties

     6,205       5,641  

Less: accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization of natural gas and oil properties

     (7,623 )     (7,112 )
                

Total natural gas and oil properties, at cost based on full-cost accounting

     27,899       26,185  

Other property and equipment:

    

Natural gas gathering systems and treating plants

     1,453       1,135  

Buildings and land

     954       816  

Drilling rigs and equipment

     125       106  

Natural gas compressors

     68       63  

Other

     351       327  

Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization of other property and equipment

     (331 )     (295 )
                

Total Other Property and Equipment

     2,620       2,152  
                

Total Property and Equipment

     30,519       28,337  
                

OTHER ASSETS:

    

Investments

     603       612  

Long-term derivative instruments

     22       4  

Other assets

     372       385  
                

Total Other Assets

     997       1,001  
                

TOTAL ASSETS

   $ 33,462     $ 30,734  
                

 

1


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CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS — (Continued)

(Unaudited)

 

     March 31,
2008
    December 31,
2007
 
     ($ in millions)  

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

    

CURRENT LIABILITIES:

    

Accounts payable

   $ 1,478     $ 1,262  

Accrued liabilities

     710       717  

Short-term derivative instruments

     1,342       174  

Revenues and royalties due others

     566       433  

Accrued interest

     124       175  
                

Total Current Liabilities

     4,220       2,761  
                

LONG-TERM LIABILITIES:

    

Long-term debt, net

     12,250       10,950  

Deferred income tax liability

     4,076       3,966  

Asset retirement obligation

     243       236  

Long-term derivative instruments

     916       408  

Revenues and royalties due others

     44       42  

Other liabilities

     243       241  
                

Total Long-Term Liabilities

     17,772       15,843  
                

CONTINGENCIES AND COMMITMENTS (Note 3)

    

STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:

    

Preferred Stock, $.01 par value, 20,000,000 shares authorized:

    

5.00% cumulative convertible preferred stock (series 2005B), 5,750,000 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, entitled in liquidation to $575 million

     575       575  

4.50% cumulative convertible preferred stock, 3,450,000 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, entitled in liquidation to $345 million

     345       345  

6.25% mandatory convertible preferred stock, 143,768 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively, entitled in liquidation to $36 million

     36       36  

4.125% cumulative convertible preferred stock, 3,062 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively, entitled in liquidation to $3 million

     3       3  

5.00% cumulative convertible preferred stock (series 2005), 5,000 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, entitled in liquidation to $1 million

     1       1  

Common Stock, $.01 par value, 750,000,000 shares authorized, 514,564,549 and 511,648,217 shares issued at March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively

     5       5  

Paid-in capital

     7,081       7,032  

Retained earnings

     3,973       4,150  

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax of $335 million and $6 million, respectively

     (543 )     (11 )

Less: treasury stock, at cost; 499,723 and 500,821 common shares as of March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively

     (6 )     (6 )
                

Total Stockholders’ Equity

     11,470       12,130  
                

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

   $ 33,462     $ 30,734  
                

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

2


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CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(Unaudited)

 

     Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
     2008     2007  
    

($ in millions

except per share data)

 

REVENUES:

    

Natural gas and oil sales

   $ 773     $ 1,125  

Natural gas and oil marketing sales

     796       422  

Service operations revenue

     42       33  
                

Total Revenues

     1,611       1,580  
                

OPERATING COSTS:

    

Production expenses

     201       142  

Production taxes

     75       42  

General and administrative expenses

     79       52  

Natural gas and oil marketing expenses

     774       407  

Service operations expense

     35       22  

Natural gas and oil depreciation, depletion and amortization

     515       393  

Depreciation and amortization of other assets

     36       36  
                

Total Operating Costs

     1,715       1,094  
                

INCOME (LOSS) FROM OPERATIONS

     (104 )     486  
                

OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):

    

Interest and other income

     (9 )     9  

Interest expense

     (101 )     (79 )
                

Total Other Income (Expense)

     (110 )     (70 )
                

INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE INCOME TAXES

     (214 )     416  

INCOME TAX EXPENSE (BENEFIT):

    

Current

            

Deferred

     (82 )     158  
                

Total Income Tax Expense (Benefit)

     (82 )     158  
                

NET INCOME (LOSS)

     (132 )     258  

PREFERRED STOCK DIVIDENDS

     (11 )     (26 )
                

NET INCOME (LOSS) AVAILABLE TO COMMON SHAREHOLDERS

   $ (143 )   $ 232  
                

EARNINGS (LOSS) PER COMMON SHARE:

    

Basic

   $ (0.29 )   $ 0.51  

Assuming dilution

   $ (0.29 )   $ 0.50  

CASH DIVIDEND DECLARED PER COMMON SHARE

   $ 0.0675     $ 0.06  

WEIGHTED AVERAGE COMMON AND COMMON EQUIVALENT SHARES OUTSTANDING (in millions):

    

Basic

     493       451  

Assuming dilution

     493       516  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

3


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CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited)

 

     Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
     2008     2007  
     ($ in millions)  

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

    

NET INCOME (LOSS)

   $ (132 )   $ 258  

ADJUSTMENTS TO RECONCILE NET INCOME (LOSS) TO CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

    

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

     553       431  

Deferred income taxes

     (86 )     153  

Unrealized losses on derivatives

     1,145       311  

Realized gains on financing derivatives

     (12 )     (42 )

Stock-based compensation

     29       14  

Other

     14       (1 )

Change in assets and liabilities

     (13 )     (147 )
                

Cash provided by operating activities

     1,498       977  
                

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

    

Exploration and development of natural gas and oil properties

     (1,406 )     (1,251 )

Acquisitions of natural gas and oil companies, proved and unproved properties and leasehold, net of cash acquired

     (1,004 )     (419 )

Divestitures of proved and unproved properties and leasehold

     243        

Additions to other property and equipment

     (551 )     (212 )

Additions to investments

     (9 )     (17 )

Proceeds from sale of drilling rigs and equipment

     34       30  

Proceeds from sale of compressors

     17        

Deposits for acquisitions

           (7 )

Sale of non-natural gas and oil assets

     1       7  
                

Cash used in investing activities

     (2,675 )     (1,869 )
                

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

    

Proceeds from long-term borrowings

     2,591       1,833  

Payments on long-term borrowings

     (1,377 )     (858 )

Cash paid for common stock dividends

     (33 )     (27 )

Cash paid for preferred stock dividends

     (12 )     (26 )

Derivative settlements

     (33 )     (22 )

Net increase (decrease) in outstanding payments in excess of cash balance

     44       (8 )

Cash received from exercise of stock options

     4       3  

Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation

     11       4  

Other financing costs

     (18 )     (6 )
                

Cash provided by financing activities

     1,177       893  
                

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

           1  

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period

     1       3  
                

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period

   $ 1     $ 4  
                

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

4


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CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS — (Continued)

(Unaudited)

 

     Three Months Ended
March 31,
     2008    2007
     ($ in millions)

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION OF CASH PAYMENTS FOR:

     

Interest, net of capitalized interest

   $ 131    $ 104

Income taxes, net of refunds received

   $ 4    $ 5

SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULE OF NON-CASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

Accrued dividends payable on our common and preferred stock was $53 million on both March 31, 2008 and 2007.

For the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, natural gas and oil properties were adjusted by $13 million and $7 million, respectively, for income tax liabilities related to acquisitions.

For the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, natural gas and oil properties were adjusted by ($6) million and $22 million, respectively, as a result of an increase (decrease) in accrued exploration and development costs.

We recorded non-cash asset additions to net natural gas and oil properties of $3 million and $5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively, for asset retirement obligations.

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

5


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CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(Unaudited)

 

     Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
     2008     2007  
     ($ in millions)  

PREFERRED STOCK:

    

Balance, beginning of period

   $ 960     $ 1,958  
                

Balance, end of period

     960       1,958  
                

COMMON STOCK:

    

Balance, beginning of period

     5       5  
                

Balance, end of period

     5       5  
                

PAID-IN CAPITAL:

    

Balance, beginning of period

     7,032       5,873  

Stock-based compensation

     34       15  

Exercise of stock options

     4       3  

Tax benefit from exercise of stock options and restricted stock

     11       4  
                

Balance, end of period

     7,081       5,895  
                

RETAINED EARNINGS:

    

Balance, beginning of period

     4,150       2,913  

Net income (loss)

     (132 )     258  

Dividends on common stock

     (33 )     (27 )

Dividends on preferred stock

     (12 )     (26 )

Adoption of FIN 48

           (4 )
                

Balance, end of period

     3,973       3,114  
                

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS):

    

Balance, beginning of period

     (11 )     528  

Hedging activity

     (533 )     (407 )

Marketable securities activity

     1       2  
                

Balance, end of period

     (543 )     123  
                

TREASURY STOCK – COMMON:

    

Balance, beginning of period

     (6 )     (26 )

Release of 1,098 and 260,447 shares for company benefit plans

           8  
                

Balance, end of period

     (6 )     (18 )
                

TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

   $ 11,470     $ 11,077  
                

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

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CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

(Unaudited)

 

     Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
     2008     2007  
     ($ in millions)  

Net income (loss)

   $ (132 )   $ 258  

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income tax:

    

Change in fair value of derivative instruments, net of income taxes of ($303) million and ($132) million

     (492 )     (213 )

Reclassification of gain on settled contracts, net of income taxes of ($51) million and ($138) million

     (82 )     (228 )

Ineffective portion of derivatives qualifying for cash flow hedge accounting, net of income taxes of $25 million and $20 million

     41       34  

Unrealized gain on marketable securities, net of income taxes of $1 million and $1 million

     1       2  
                

Comprehensive income (loss)

   $ (664 )   $ (147 )
                

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

7


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CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited)

1. Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Principles of Consolidation

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of Chesapeake Energy Corporation and its subsidiaries have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q as prescribed by the Securities and Exchange Commission. Chesapeake’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007 (“2007 Form 10-K”) includes certain definitions and a summary of significant accounting policies and should be read in conjunction with this Form 10-Q. All material adjustments (consisting solely of normal recurring adjustments) which, in the opinion of management, are necessary for a fair statement of the results for the interim periods have been reflected. The results for the three months ended March 31, 2008 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year. This Form 10-Q relates to the three months ended March 31, 2008 (the “Current Quarter”) and the three months ended March 31, 2007 (the “Prior Quarter”).

Income Taxes

Chesapeake adopted the provisions of FASB Interpretation (FIN) No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109 on January 1, 2007. As of March 31, 2008, the amount of unrecognized tax benefits related to AMT liabilities associated with uncertain tax positions was $136 million. These AMT liabilities can be utilized as credits against future regular tax liabilities. The uncertain tax positions identified would not have an effect on the effective tax rate. At March 31, 2008, we had a liability of $7 million for interest related to these same uncertain tax positions. Chesapeake recognizes interest related to uncertain tax positions in interest expense. Penalties, if any, related to uncertain tax positions would be recorded in other expenses.

Chesapeake files income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various state and local jurisdictions. With few exceptions, Chesapeake is no longer subject to U.S. federal, state and local income tax examinations by tax authorities for years prior to 2004. In March 2008, the IRS commenced an examination of Chesapeake’s U.S. income tax returns for 2005 and 2006 which we expect will be completed in 2009. We do not anticipate that the outcome of this examination would result in a material change to our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Critical Accounting Policies

We consider accounting policies related to hedging, natural gas and oil properties, income taxes and business combinations to be critical policies. These policies are summarized in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in our 2007 Form 10-K.

2. Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities

Natural Gas and Oil Hedging Activities

Our results of operations and operating cash flows are impacted by changes in market prices for natural gas and oil. To mitigate a portion of the exposure to adverse market changes, we have entered into various derivative instruments. As of March 31, 2008, our natural gas and oil derivative instruments were comprised of swaps, basis protection swaps, knockout swaps, cap-swaps, call options and collars. These instruments allow us to predict with greater certainty the effective natural gas and oil prices to be received for our hedged production. Although derivatives often fail to achieve 100% effectiveness for accounting purposes, we believe our derivative instruments continue to be highly effective in achieving the risk management objectives for which they were intended.

 

   

For swap instruments, Chesapeake receives a fixed price for the hedged commodity and pays a floating market price to the counterparty. The fixed-price payment and the floating-price payment are netted, resulting in a net amount due to or from the counterparty.

 

   

Basis protection swaps are arrangements that guarantee a price differential for natural gas or oil from a specified delivery point. For Mid-Continent basis protection swaps, which typically have negative differentials to NYMEX, Chesapeake receives a payment from the counterparty if the price differential is greater than the stated terms of the contract and pays the counterparty if the price differential is less

 

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CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

 

than the stated terms of the contract. For Appalachian Basin basis protection swaps, which typically have positive differentials to NYMEX, Chesapeake receives a payment from the counterparty if the price differential is less than the stated terms of the contract and pays the counterparty if the price differential is greater than the stated terms of the contract.

 

   

For knockout swaps, Chesapeake receives a fixed price and pays a floating market price. The fixed price received by Chesapeake includes a premium in exchange for the possibility to reduce the counterparty’s exposure to zero, in any given month, if the floating market price is lower than certain pre-determined knockout prices.

 

   

For cap-swaps, Chesapeake receives a fixed price and pays a floating market price. The fixed price received by Chesapeake includes a premium in exchange for a “cap” limiting the counterparty’s exposure. In other words, there is no limit to Chesapeake’s exposure but there is a limit to the downside exposure of the counterparty.

 

   

For call options, Chesapeake receives a premium from the counterparty in exchange for the sale of a call option. If the market price exceeds the fixed price of the call option, Chesapeake pays the counterparty such excess. If the market price settles below the fixed price of the call option, no payment is due from Chesapeake.

 

   

Collars contain a fixed floor price (put) and ceiling price (call). If the market price exceeds the call strike price or falls below the put strike price, Chesapeake receives the fixed price and pays the market price. If the market price is between the call and the put strike price, no payments are due from either party.

Chesapeake enters into counter-swaps from time to time for the purpose of locking-in the value of a swap. Under the counter-swap, Chesapeake receives a floating price for the hedged commodity and pays a fixed price to the counterparty. The counter-swap is 100% effective in locking-in the value of a swap since subsequent changes in the market value of the swap are entirely offset by subsequent changes in the market value of the counter-swap. We refer to this locked-in value as a locked swap. Generally, at the time Chesapeake enters into a counter-swap, Chesapeake removes the original swap’s designation as a cash flow hedge and classifies the original swap as a non-qualifying hedge under SFAS 133. The reason for this new designation is that collectively the swap and the counter-swap no longer hedge the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows. Instead, the swap and counter-swap effectively lock-in a specific gain (or loss) that will be unaffected by subsequent variability in natural gas and oil prices. Any locked-in gain or loss is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income and reclassified to natural gas and oil sales in the month of related production.

In accordance with FASB Interpretation No. 39, to the extent that a legal right of set-off exists, Chesapeake nets the value of its derivative arrangements with the same counterparty in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Gains or losses from certain derivative transactions are reflected as adjustments to natural gas and oil sales on the condensed consolidated statements of operations. Realized gains (losses) are included in natural gas and oil sales in the month of related production. Pursuant to SFAS 133, certain derivatives do not qualify for designation as cash flow hedges. Changes in the fair value of these non-qualifying derivatives that occur prior to their maturity (i.e., temporary fluctuations in value) are reported currently in the condensed consolidated statements of operations as unrealized gains (losses) within natural gas and oil sales. Following provisions of SFAS 133, changes in the fair value of derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges, to the extent they are effective in offsetting cash flows attributable to the hedged risk, are recorded in other comprehensive income until the hedged item is recognized in earnings. Any change in fair value resulting from ineffectiveness is currently recognized in natural gas and oil sales as unrealized gains (losses). The components of natural gas and oil sales for the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter are presented below.

 

     Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
     2008     2007  
     ($ in millions)  

Natural gas and oil sales

   $ 1,691     $ 1,001  

Realized gains (losses) on natural gas and oil derivatives

     214       433  

Unrealized gains (losses) on non-qualifying natural gas and oil derivatives

     (1,067 )     (255 )

Unrealized gains (losses) on ineffectiveness of cash flow hedges

     (65 )     (54 )
                

Total natural gas and oil sales

   $ 773     $ 1,125  
                

 

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

The estimated fair values of our natural gas and oil derivative instruments as of March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007 are provided below. The associated carrying values of these instruments are equal to the estimated fair values.

 

     March 31,
2008
    December 31,
2007
 
     ($ in millions)  

Derivative assets (liabilities):

    

Fixed-price natural gas swaps

   $ (862 )   $ (54 )

Natural gas basis protection swaps

     137       151  

Fixed-price natural gas knockout swaps

     (462 )     108  

Natural gas call options(a)

     (515 )     (230 )

Fixed-price natural gas collars(b)

     (64 )     4  

Fixed-price oil swaps

     (97 )     (110 )

Fixed-price oil cap-swaps

     (18 )     (17 )

Fixed-price oil knockout swaps

     (217 )     (125 )

Oil call options(c)

     (134 )     (96 )
                

Estimated fair value

   $ (2,232 )   $ (369 )
                

 

(a)

After adjusting for $339 million and $255 million of unrealized premiums, the cumulative unrealized gain (loss) related to these call options as of March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007 was ($176) million and $25 million, respectively.

(b)

After adjusting for $8 million of unrealized discount, the cumulative unrealized loss related to these collars as of December 31, 2007 was ($4) million. The unrealized premiums at March 31, 2008 were nominal.

(c)

After adjusting for $29 million of unrealized premiums, the cumulative unrealized loss related to these call options as of March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007 was $105 million and $67 million, respectively.

Since 2006, Chesapeake has lifted a portion of its 2008 through 2022 hedges and as a result had approximately $52 million of deferred hedging gains as of March 31, 2008. These gains have been recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income or as an unrealized gain in natural gas and oil sales. For amounts originally recorded in other comprehensive income, the gain will be recognized in natural gas and oil sales in the month of the hedged production.

Based upon the market prices at March 31, 2008, we expect to transfer approximately $311 million (net of income taxes) of the loss included in the balance in accumulated other comprehensive income to earnings during the next 12 months in the related month of production. All transactions hedged as of March 31, 2008 are expected to mature by December 31, 2022.

We have six secured hedging facilities, each of which permits us to enter into cash-settled natural gas and oil commodity transactions, valued by the counterparty, for up to a stated maximum value. Outstanding transactions under each facility are collateralized by certain of our natural gas and oil properties that do not secure any of our other obligations. The value of reserve collateral pledged to each facility is required to be at least 1.3 times the fair value of transactions outstanding under each facility. In addition, we may pledge collateral from our revolving bank credit facility, from time to time, to these facilities to meet our collateral coverage requirements. The hedging facilities are subject to a per annum exposure fee, which is assessed quarterly based on the average of the daily negative fair value amounts of the hedges, if any, during the quarter. The hedging facilities contain the standard representations and default provisions that are typical of such agreements. The agreements also contain various restrictive provisions which govern the aggregate natural gas and oil production volumes that we are permitted to hedge under all of our agreements at any one time. The stated maximum capacity under each facility, per annum exposure fees, scheduled maturity dates and the fair value of outstanding transactions are shown below.

 

     Secured Hedging Facilities (a)  
     #1     #2     #3     #4     #5     #6  
     ($ in millions)  

Stated maximum value of transactions under facility

   $ 750     $ 500     $ 500     $ 250     $ 500     $ 500  

Per annum exposure fee

     1 %     1 %     0.8 %     0.8 %     0.8 %     0.8 %

Scheduled maturity date

     2010       2010       2020       2012       2012       2012  

Fair value of outstanding transactions, as of March 31, 2008

   $ (90 )   $ (764 )   $ (421 )   $ (76 )   $ (76 )   $ (147 )

 

(a)

Chesapeake Exploration, L.L.C. is the named party to the facilities numbered 1 – 3 and Chesapeake Energy Corporation is the named party to the facilities numbered 4 – 6.

 

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CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

Interest Rate Derivatives

We use interest rate derivatives to mitigate our exposure to the volatility in interest rates. For interest rate derivative instruments designated as fair value hedges (in accordance with SFAS 133), changes in fair value are recorded on the condensed consolidated balance sheets as assets (liabilities), and the debt’s carrying value amount is adjusted by the change in the fair value of the debt subsequent to the initiation of the derivative. Changes in the fair value of non-qualifying derivatives that occur prior to their maturity (i.e., temporary fluctuations in value) are reported currently in the condensed consolidated statements of operations as unrealized gains (losses) within interest expense.

Gains or losses from certain derivative transactions are reflected as adjustments to interest expense on the condensed consolidated statements of operations. Realized gains (losses) included in interest expense were a nominal amount and ($2) million in the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, respectively. Unrealized gains (losses) included in interest expense were ($13) million and ($1) million in the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, respectively.

As of March 31, 2008, the following interest rate derivatives were outstanding:

 

     Notional
Amount
($ in millions)
   Weighted
Average
Fixed
Rate
   

Weighted

Average

Floating

Rate

   Weighted
Average
Cap/Floor
Rate
  Fair
Value
Hedge
   Net
Premiums
($ in millions)
   Fair
Value
($ in millions)
 

Fixed to Floating Swaps:

                  

January 2008 – November 2020

   $ 800    7.195 %   6 month LIBOR plus 328 basis points      Yes    $    $ (8 )

January 2008 – January 2018

   $ 250    6.25 %   6 month LIBOR plus 190 basis points      No           5  

Floating to Fixed Swaps:

                  

August 2007 – August 2010

   $ 825    4.737 %   3 month LIBOR      No           (32 )

Call Options:

                  

January 2008 – July 2010

   $ 500    6.563 %        No      5      (11 )

Collars:

                  

August 2007 – August 2010

   $ 800           5.37% – 4.52%   No           (34 )
                            
                $ 5    $ (80 )
                            

In the Current Quarter, we sold call options on two of our interest rate swaps and received $5 million in premiums. Three options were exercised in the Current Quarter resulting in the termination of three interest rate swaps.

In the Current Quarter, we closed 17 interest rate swaps for gains totaling $48 million. These interest rate swaps were designated as fair value hedges, and the settlement amounts received will be amortized as a reduction to interest expense over the remaining term of the related senior notes.

Foreign Currency Derivatives

On December 6, 2006, we issued €600 million of 6.25% Euro-denominated Senior Notes due 2017. Concurrent with the issuance of the euro-denominated senior notes, we entered into a cross currency swap to mitigate our exposure to fluctuations in the euro relative to the dollar over the term of the notes. Under the terms of the cross currency swap, on each semi-annual interest payment date, the counterparties pay Chesapeake €19 million and Chesapeake pays the counterparties $30 million, which yields an annual dollar-equivalent interest rate of 7.491%. Upon maturity of the notes, the counterparties will pay Chesapeake €600 million and Chesapeake will pay the counterparties $800 million. The terms of the cross currency swap were based on the dollar/euro exchange rate on the issuance date of $1.3325 to €1.00. Through the cross currency swap, we have eliminated any potential variability in Chesapeake’s expected cash flows related to changes in foreign exchange rates and therefore the swap qualifies as a cash flow hedge under SFAS 133. The euro-denominated debt is recorded in notes payable ($948 million at March 31, 2008) using an exchange rate of $1.5805 to €1.00. The fair value of the cross currency swap is recorded on the condensed consolidated balance sheet as an asset of $80 million at March 31, 2008.

 

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

Concentration of Credit Risk

A significant portion of our liquidity is concentrated in derivative instruments that enable us to hedge a portion of our exposure to natural gas and oil price and interest rate volatility. These arrangements expose us to credit risk from our counterparties. To mitigate this risk, we enter into derivative contracts only with investment-grade rated counterparties deemed by management to be competent and competitive market makers. Recently there have been concerns about the ability of certain investment banks to continue to meet their financial obligations. A notable example is our counterparty, Bear Stearns, which faced a liquidity crisis in early March 2008. The Bear Stearns parent and JPMorgan Chase & Co. (JPM) entered into an agreement as of March 16, 2008 for JPM to acquire Bear Stearns, and JPM unconditionally guaranteed payment of Bear Stearns’ liabilities for the period specified in the guaranty, including liabilities that might arise under our derivative contracts with Bear Stearns affiliates. We monitor our counterparties and do not believe a failure by an investment bank counterparty would have a material negative impact on our liquidity.

Other financial instruments which potentially subject us to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of investments in equity instruments and accounts receivable. Our accounts receivable are primarily from purchasers of natural gas and oil and exploration and production companies which own interests in properties we operate. This industry concentration has the potential to impact our overall exposure to credit risk, either positively or negatively, in that our customers may be similarly affected by changes in economic, industry or other conditions. We generally require letters of credit for receivables from customers which are judged to have sub-standard credit, unless the credit risk can otherwise be mitigated.

3. Contingencies and Commitments

Litigation

We are involved in various disputes incidental to our business operations, including claims from royalty owners regarding volume measurements, post-production costs and prices for royalty calculations. In Tawney, et al. v. Columbia Natural Resources, Inc., Chesapeake’s wholly-owned subsidiary Chesapeake Appalachia, L.L.C., formerly known as Columbia Natural Resources, LLC (CNR), is a defendant in a class action lawsuit in the Circuit Court of Roane County, West Virginia filed in 2003 by royalty owners. The plaintiffs allege that CNR underpaid royalties by improperly deducting post-production costs, failing to pay royalty on total volumes of natural gas produced and not paying a fair value for the natural gas produced from their leases. The plaintiff class consists of West Virginia royalty owners receiving royalties after July 31, 1990 from CNR. Chesapeake acquired CNR in November 2005, and its seller acquired CNR in 2003 from NiSource Inc. NiSource, a co-defendant in the case, has managed the litigation and indemnified Chesapeake against underpayment claims based on the use of fixed prices for natural gas production sold under certain forward sale contracts and other claims with respect to CNR’s operations prior to September 2003.

On January 27, 2007, the Circuit Court jury returned a verdict against the defendants of $404 million, consisting of $134 million in compensatory damages and $270 million in punitive damages. Most of the damages awarded by the jury relate to issues not yet addressed by the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals, although in June 2006 that Court ruled against the defendants on two certified questions regarding the deductibility of post-production expenses. The jury found fraudulent conduct by the defendants with respect to the sales prices used to calculate royalty payments and with respect to the failure of CNR to disclose post-production deductions. On June 28, 2007, the Circuit Court sustained the jury verdict for punitive damages, and on September 27, 2007, it denied all post-trial motions. Subsequently defendants filed an irrevocable letter of credit in the amount of $50 million in order to stay the judgment pending appeal. On January 24, 2008, the defendants filed their initial Petition for Appeal in the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals, and on April 14, 2008, the plaintiffs filed a response, a cross petition and other motions.

Chesapeake and NiSource maintain CNR acted in good faith and paid royalties in accordance with lease terms and West Virginia law. Chesapeake has established an accrual for amounts it believes will not be indemnified. Should a final nonappealable judgment be entered, Chesapeake believes its share of damages will not have a material adverse effect on its results of operations, financial condition or liquidity.

Chesapeake is subject to other legal proceedings and claims which arise in the ordinary course of business. In our opinion, the final resolution of these proceedings and claims will not have a material effect on the company.

 

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

Employment Agreements with Officers

Chesapeake has employment agreements with its chief executive officer, chief operating officer, chief financial officer and other executive officers, which provide for annual base salaries, various benefits and eligibility for bonus compensation. The agreement with the chief executive officer has a term of five years commencing January 1, 2008. The term of the agreement is automatically extended for one additional year on each December 31 unless the company provides 30 days notice of non-extension. In the event of termination of employment without cause, the chief executive officer’s base compensation (defined as base salary plus bonus compensation received during the preceding 12 months) and benefits would continue during the remaining term of the agreement. The chief executive officer is entitled to receive a payment in the amount of three times his base compensation upon the happening of certain events following a change of control. The agreement further provides that any stock-based awards held by the chief executive officer and deferred compensation will immediately become 100% vested upon termination of employment without cause, incapacity, death, or retirement at or after age 55, and any unexercised stock options will not terminate as the result of termination of employment. The agreements with the chief operating officer, chief financial officer and other executive officers expire on September 30, 2009. These agreements provide for the continuation of salary for one year in the event of termination of employment without cause or death and, in the event of a change of control, a payment in the amount of two times the executive officer’s base compensation. These executive officers are entitled to continue to receive compensation and benefits for 180 days following termination of employment as a result of incapacity. Any stock-based awards held by such executive officers will immediately become 100% vested upon termination of employment without cause, a change of control, death, or retirement at or after age 55.

Environmental Risk

Due to the nature of the natural gas and oil business, Chesapeake and its subsidiaries are exposed to possible environmental risks. Chesapeake has implemented various policies and procedures to avoid environmental contamination and risks from environmental contamination. Chesapeake conducts periodic reviews, on a company-wide basis, to identify changes in our environmental risk profile. These reviews evaluate whether there is a contingent liability, its amount, and the likelihood that the liability will be incurred. The amount of any potential liability is determined by considering, among other matters, incremental direct costs of any likely remediation and the proportionate cost of employees who are expected to devote a significant amount of time directly to any possible remediation effort. We manage our exposure to environmental liabilities on properties to be acquired by identifying existing problems and assessing the potential liability. Depending on the extent of an identified environmental problem, Chesapeake may exclude a property from the acquisition, require the seller to remediate the property to our satisfaction, or agree to assume liability for the remediation of the property. Chesapeake has historically not experienced any significant environmental liability, and is not aware of any potential material environmental issues or claims at March 31, 2008.

Rig Leases

In a series of transactions in 2006, 2007 and 2008, our drilling subsidiaries sold 80 drilling rigs and related equipment for $647 million and entered into a master lease agreement under which we agreed to lease the rigs from the buyer for initial terms of seven to ten years for rental payments of approximately $90 million annually. The lease obligations are guaranteed by Chesapeake and its other material subsidiaries. These transactions were recorded as sales and operating leasebacks and any related gain or loss will be amortized to service operations expense over the lease term. Under the rig leases, we have the option to purchase the rigs in 2013 or on the expiration of the lease term for a purchase price equal to the then fair market value of the rigs. Additionally, we have the option to renew the rig lease for a negotiated renewal term at a periodic rental equal to the fair market rental value of the rigs as determined at the time of renewal. Commitments related to rig lease payments are not recorded in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets. As of March 31, 2008, the minimum aggregate future rig lease payments were approximately $650 million.

Compressor Leases

In 2007 and 2008, our wholly-owned subsidiary, MidCon Compression, L.L.C., sold a significant portion of its existing compressor fleet, consisting of 1,239 compressors, for $205 million and entered into a master lease agreement. The term of the agreement varies by buyer ranging from seven to ten years for aggregate rental payments of approximately $25 million annually. MidCon’s lease obligations are guaranteed by Chesapeake and its other material subsidiaries. These transactions were recorded as sales and operating leasebacks and any related gain or loss will be amortized to natural gas and oil marketing expenses over the lease term. Under the

 

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

leases, we can exercise an early purchase option after six to nine years or we can purchase the compressors at expiration of the lease for the fair market value at the time. In addition, we have the option to renew the lease for negotiated new terms at the expiration of the lease. Through 2009, approximately 480 new compressors are on order for approximately $190 million and will be sold and leased back as the compressors are delivered. Commitments related to compressor lease payments are not recorded in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets. As of March 31, 2008, the minimum aggregate future compressor lease payments were approximately $225 million.

Transportation Contracts

Chesapeake has various firm pipeline transportation service agreements with expiration dates ranging from one to 93 years. These commitments are not recorded in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets. Under the terms of these contracts, we are obligated to pay demand charges as set forth in the transporter’s Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) gas tariff. In exchange, the company receives rights to flow natural gas production through pipelines located in highly competitive markets. As of March 31, 2008, the aggregate amount of such required demand payments was approximately $521 million (excluding demand charges for pipeline projects that are currently seeking regulatory approval).

Drilling Contracts

Currently, Chesapeake has contracts with various drilling contractors to lease approximately 35 rigs with terms of one to three years. As of March 31, 2008, the aggregate drilling rig commitment was approximately $190 million.

As of March 31, 2008, Chesapeake’s service operations subsidiaries have contracted to acquire three rigs to be constructed during 2008. The total remaining cost of the rigs is estimated to be approximately $15 million.

Gas Purchase Obligations

Our marketing segment regularly commits to purchase natural gas from other owners in our properties and such commitments typically are short term in nature. We have also committed to purchase natural gas associated with the volumetric production payment transaction we closed on December 31, 2007. The purchase commitment extends over a 15 year term based on market prices at the time of production, and the purchased natural gas will be resold. As of March 31, 2008, we were obligated to purchase 202,993 mmcfe under the terms of the volumetric production payment.

Other Commitments

Chesapeake and a leading investment bank have an agreement to lend Mountain Drilling Company, of which Chesapeake is a 49% equity owner, up to $32 million each through December 31, 2009. At March 31, 2008, Mountain Drilling owed Chesapeake $20 million under this agreement.

Chesapeake has an agreement to lend Ventura Refining and Transmission LLC, of which Chesapeake is a 25% equity owner, up to $31 million through January 31, 2017. At March 31, 2008, there was $26 million outstanding under this agreement. Additionally, we have agreed to guarantee up to $70 million in commitments for Ventura to support its operating activities. As of March 31, 2008, we had guaranteed $61 million.

On March 28, 2008, we entered into an agreement to purchase a 460,000 square foot office building in downtown Fort Worth, Texas from Pier 1 Imports, Inc. for $104 million to house our Barnett Shale district headquarters. As part of the transaction, Pier 1 Imports will enter into a lease agreement to rent approximately 250,000 square feet for a primary term of seven years beginning on the closing date, with one three-year renewal option, and a right to terminate the lease at the end of the fifth lease year. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2008.

 

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

4. Net Income (Loss) Per Share

Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 128, Earnings Per Share, requires presentation of “basic” and “diluted” earnings per share, as defined, on the face of the statements of operations for all entities with complex capital structures. SFAS 128 requires a reconciliation of the numerator and denominator of the basic and diluted EPS computations. For the Current Quarter, there was no difference between actual weighted average shares outstanding, which are used in computing basic EPS, and diluted weighted average shares, which are used in computing EPS assuming dilution.

As a result of the Current Quarter’s net loss to common shareholders, diluted shares do not include the effect of (i) outstanding stock options to purchase 2.6 million shares of common stock at a weighted average exercise price of $7.71, (ii) 5.3 million shares of unvested restricted stock at a weighted average grant-date fair value of $34.07 and (iii) the assumed conversion of the following outstanding preferred stock:

 

   

4.125% preferred stock convertible into 184,200 common shares,

 

   

5.00% (Series 2005) convertible preferred stock convertible into 19,432 common shares,

 

   

5.00% (Series 2005B) convertible preferred stock convertible into 14,719,425 common shares,

 

   

4.50% preferred stock convertible into 7,810,800 common shares, and

 

   

6.25% mandatory convertible preferred stock convertible into 1,031,175 common shares.

A reconciliation for the three months ended March 31, 2007 is as follows:

 

    Income
(Numerator)
  Shares
(Denominator)
  Per Share
Amount
    (in millions, except per share data)

For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2007:

     

Basic EPS:

     

Income available to common shareholders

  $ 232   451   $ 0.51
               

Effect of Dilutive Securities

     

Assumed conversion as of the beginning of the period of preferred shares outstanding during the period:

     

Common shares assumed issued for 4.50% convertible preferred stock

      8  

Common shares assumed issued for 5.00% convertible preferred stock (Series 2005)

      18  

Common shares assumed issued for 5.00% convertible preferred stock (Series 2005B)

      15  

Common shares assumed issued for 6.25% convertible preferred stock

      19  

Employee stock options

      3  

Restricted stock

      2  

Preferred stock dividends

    26    
           

Diluted EPS Income available to common shareholders and assumed conversions

  $ 258   516   $ 0.50
               

5. Stockholders’ Equity, Restricted Stock and Stock Options

The following is a summary of the changes in our common shares outstanding for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and 2007:

 

     2008    2007
     (in thousands)

Shares outstanding at January 1

   511,648    458,601

Stock option exercises

   621    532

Restricted stock issuances net of terminations and vesting

   2,296    2,253
         

Shares outstanding at March 31

   514,565    461,386
         

There were no changes in our preferred shares outstanding in the Current Quarter.

 

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

Stock-Based Compensation

Chesapeake’s stock-based compensation programs consist of restricted stock and stock options issued to employees and non-employee directors. To the extent compensation cost relates to employees directly involved in natural gas and oil exploration and development activities, such amounts are capitalized to natural gas and oil properties. Amounts not capitalized are recognized as general and administrative expenses, production expenses, natural gas and oil marketing expenses or service operations expense. We recorded the following stock-based compensation during the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter:

 

     Three Months Ended
March 31,
     2008    2007
     ($ in millions)

Natural gas and oil properties

   $ 26    $ 9

General and administrative expenses

     19      10

Production expenses

     7      3

Natural gas and oil marketing expenses

     2      1

Service operations expense

     1     
             

Total

   $ 55    $ 23
             

Restricted Stock. Chesapeake regularly issues shares of restricted common stock to employees and to non-employee directors. The fair value of the awards issued is determined based on the fair market value of the shares on the date of grant. This value is amortized over the vesting period, which is generally four or five years from the date of grant for employees and three years for non-employee directors.

A summary of the changes in unvested shares of restricted stock during the Current Quarter is presented below:

 

     Number of
Unvested
Restricted Shares
    Weighted Average
Grant-Date

Fair Value

Unvested shares as of January 1, 2008

   19,688,759     $ 32.42

Granted

   3,046,950     $ 40.14

Vested

   (1,507,561 )   $ 24.66

Forfeited

   (306,006 )   $ 34.58
        

Unvested shares as of March 31, 2008

   20,922,142     $ 34.07
        

The aggregate intrinsic value of restricted stock vested during the Current Quarter was approximately $61 million based on the stock price at the time of vesting.

As of March 31, 2008, there was $633 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested restricted stock. The cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 3.07 years.

The vesting of certain restricted stock grants results in state and federal income tax benefits related to the difference between the market price of the common stock at the date of vesting and the date of grant. During the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, we recognized excess tax benefits related to restricted stock of $6 million and $1 million, respectively, which were recorded as adjustments to additional paid-in capital and deferred income taxes.

Stock Options. Prior to 2006, we granted stock options under several stock compensation plans. Outstanding options expire ten years from the date of grant and vest over a four-year period.

 

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

The following table provides information related to stock option activity during the Current Quarter:

 

     Number of
Shares
Underlying
Options
    Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price

Per Share
   Weighted
Average
Contract
Life in Years
   Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value(a)

($ in millions)

Outstanding at January 1, 2008

   4,445,455     $ 7.55       $ 141

Exercised

   (624,674 )   $ 6.52       $ 23

Forfeited

   (1,000 )   $ 15.48      
              

Outstanding at March 31, 2008

   3,819,781     $ 7.71    4.21    $ 147
              

Exercisable at March 31, 2008

   3,813,781     $ 7.70    4.20    $ 147
              

 

(a)

The intrinsic value of a stock option is the amount by which the current market value or the market value upon exercise of the underlying stock exceeds the exercise price of the option.

As of March 31, 2008, unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested stock options was not significant.

During the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, we recognized excess tax benefits related to stock options of $5 million and $3 million, respectively, which were recorded as adjustments to additional paid-in capital and deferred income taxes.

6. Senior Notes and Revolving Bank Credit Facility

Our long-term debt consisted of the following as of March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007:

 

     March 31,
2008
    December 31,
2007
 
     ($ in millions)  

7.5% Senior Notes due 2013

   $ 364     $ 364  

7.625% Senior Notes due 2013

     500       500  

7.0% Senior Notes due 2014

     300       300  

7.5% Senior Notes due 2014

     300       300  

6.375% Senior Notes due 2015

     600       600  

7.75% Senior Notes due 2015

     300       300  

6.625% Senior Notes due 2016

     600       600  

6.875% Senior Notes due 2016

     670       670  

6.25% Euro-denominated Senior Notes due 2017(a)

     948       876  

6.5% Senior Notes due 2017

     1,100       1,100  

6.25% Senior Notes due 2018

     600       600  

6.875% Senior Notes due 2020

     500       500  

2.75% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes due 2035(b)

     690       690  

2.5% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes due 2037(b)

     1,650       1,650  

Revolving bank credit facility

     3,164       1,950  

Discount on senior notes

     (102 )     (105 )

Impact of interest rate derivatives(c)

     66       55  
                

Total notes payable and long-term debt

   $ 12,250     $ 10,950  
                

 

(a)

The principal amount shown is based on the dollar/euro exchange rate of $1.5805 to €1.00 and $1.4603 to €1.00 as of March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively. See Note 2 for information on our related cross currency swap.

(b)

The holders of the 2.75% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes due 2035 may require us to repurchase, in cash, all or a portion of these notes on November 15, 2015, 2020, 2025 and 2030 at 100% of the principal amount of the notes. The holders of the 2.5% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes due 2037 may require us to repurchase, in cash, all or a portion of these notes on May 15, 2017, 2022, 2027 and 2032 at 100% of the principal amount of the notes. The notes are convertible, at the holder’s option, prior to maturity under certain circumstances, into cash and, if applicable, shares of our common stock using a net share settlement process. One such triggering circumstance is that the price of our common stock exceeds a threshold amount during a specified period. At May 9, 2008, that threshold amount was $48.831 for the 2.75% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes and $64.477 for the 2.5% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes. If the price of our common stock remains at current trading levels (closing price on May 9, 2008 of $56.67), or continues to increase, it is likely that holders of our 2.75% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes will have the option to convert their notes into cash and common stock in the third quarter of 2008. However, we believe the trading prices of the notes will remain above the respective conversion trigger prices such that holders would realize greater value by selling their notes in the open market as opposed to converting them into cash and common stock. In general, upon conversion of a convertible senior note, the holder will receive cash equal to the principal amount of the note and common stock for the note’s conversion value in excess of such principal amount. In addition, we will pay contingent interest on the

 

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CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

 

convertible senior notes, beginning with the six-month interest period ending May 14, 2016 with respect to the 2.75% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes due 2035 and November 14, 2017 with respect to the 2.5% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes due 2037, under certain conditions. We may redeem the convertible senior notes once they have been outstanding for ten years at a redemption price of 100% of the principal amount of the notes, payable in cash.

(c)

See Note 2 for discussion related to these instruments.

No scheduled principal payments are required under our senior notes until 2013 when $864 million is due.

Our outstanding senior notes are unsecured senior obligations of Chesapeake that rank equally in right of payment with all of our existing and future senior indebtedness and rank senior in right of payment to all of our future subordinated indebtedness. We may redeem the senior notes, other than the 2.75% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes due 2035 and the 2.5% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes due 2037, at any time at specified make-whole or redemption prices. Senior notes issued before July 2005 are governed by indentures containing covenants that limit our ability and our restricted subsidiaries’ ability to incur additional indebtedness; pay dividends on our capital stock or redeem, repurchase or retire our capital stock or subordinated indebtedness; make investments and other restricted payments; incur liens; enter into sale/leaseback transactions; create restrictions on the payment of dividends or other amounts to us from our restricted subsidiaries; engage in transactions with affiliates; sell assets; and consolidate, merge or transfer assets. Senior notes issued after June 2005 are governed by indentures containing covenants that limit our ability and our restricted subsidiaries’ ability to incur certain secured indebtedness; enter into sale/leaseback transactions; and consolidate, merge or transfer assets.

Chesapeake is a holding company and owns no operating assets and has no significant operations independent of its subsidiaries. Our obligations under our outstanding senior notes have been fully and unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, by all of our wholly-owned subsidiaries, other than minor subsidiaries, on a senior unsecured basis.

We have a $3.5 billion syndicated revolving bank credit facility which matures in November 2012. As of March 31, 2008, we had $3.164 billion in outstanding borrowings under our facility and utilized approximately $4 million of the facility for various letters of credit. Borrowings under our facility are secured by certain producing natural gas and oil properties and bear interest at our option at either (i) the greater of the reference rate of Union Bank of California, N.A. or the federal funds effective rate plus 0.50% or (ii) the London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR), plus a margin that varies from 0.75% to 1.50% per annum according to our senior unsecured long-term debt ratings. The collateral value and borrowing base are determined periodically. The unused portion of the facility is subject to a commitment fee that also varies according to our senior unsecured long-term debt ratings, from 0.125% to 0.30% per annum. Currently, the commitment fee rate is 0.20% per annum. Interest is payable quarterly or, if LIBOR applies, it may be payable at more frequent intervals.

The credit facility agreement contains various covenants and restrictive provisions which limit our ability to incur additional indebtedness, make investments or loans and create liens. The credit facility agreement requires us to maintain an indebtedness to total capitalization ratio (as defined) not to exceed 0.70 to 1 and an indebtedness to EBITDA ratio (as defined) not to exceed 3.75 to 1. As defined by the credit facility agreement, our indebtedness to total capitalization ratio was 0.52 to 1 and our indebtedness to EBITDA ratio was 2.23 to 1 at March 31, 2008. If we should fail to perform our obligations under these and other covenants, the revolving credit commitment could be terminated and any outstanding borrowings under the facility could be declared immediately due and payable. Such acceleration, if involving a principal amount of $10 million ($50 million in the case of our senior notes issued after 2004), would constitute an event of default under our senior note indentures, which could in turn result in the acceleration of a significant portion of our senior note indebtedness. The credit facility agreement also has cross default provisions that apply to other indebtedness we may have with an outstanding principal amount in excess of $75 million.

Two of our subsidiaries, Chesapeake Exploration, L.L.C. and Chesapeake Appalachia, L.L.C., are the borrowers under our revolving bank credit facility. The facility is fully and unconditionally guaranteed, on a joint and several basis, by Chesapeake and all of our other wholly owned subsidiaries except minor subsidiaries.

 

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CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

7. Segment Information

In accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 131, Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information, we have two reportable operating segments. Our exploration and production operational segment and natural gas and oil marketing segment are managed separately because of the nature of their products and services. The exploration and production segment is responsible for finding and producing natural gas and oil. The marketing segment is responsible for gathering, processing, compressing, transporting and selling natural gas and oil primarily from Chesapeake-operated wells. We also have drilling rig and trucking operations which are responsible for providing drilling rigs primarily used on Chesapeake-operated wells and trucking services utilized in the transportation of drilling rigs on both Chesapeake-operated wells and wells operated by third parties.

Management evaluates the performance of our segments based upon income before income taxes. Revenues from the marketing segment’s sale of natural gas and oil related to Chesapeake’s ownership interests are reflected as exploration and production revenues. Such amounts totaled $1.289 billion and $705 million for the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter. The following table presents selected financial information for Chesapeake’s operating segments. Our drilling rig and trucking service operations are presented in “Other Operations”.

 

     Exploration
and Production
    Marketing     Other
Operations
    Intercompany
Eliminations
    Consolidated
Total
 
     ($ in millions)  

For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2008:

          

Revenues

   $ 773     $ 2,085     $ 149     $ (1,396 )   $ 1,611  

Intersegment revenues

           (1,289 )     (107 )     1,396        
                                        

Total revenues

   $ 773     $ 796     $ 42     $     $ 1,611  
                                        

Income (loss) before income taxes

   $ (228 )   $ 15     $ 20     $ (21 )   $ (214 )
                                        

For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2007:

          

Revenues

   $ 1,125     $ 1,127     $ 108     $ (780 )   $ 1,580  

Intersegment revenues

           (705 )     (75 )     780        
                                        

Total revenues

   $ 1,125     $ 422     $ 33     $     $ 1,580  
                                        

Income before income taxes

   $ 405     $ 8     $ 30     $ (27 )   $ 416  
                                        

As of March 31, 2008:

          

Total assets

   $ 31,583     $ 2,285     $ 505     $ (911 )   $ 33,462  

As of December 31, 2007:

          

Total assets

   $ 29,317     $ 1,759     $ 487     $ (829 )   $ 30,734  

8. Divestitures

In the Current Quarter, we sold non-core natural gas and oil assets in the Rocky Mountains and in the Arkoma Basin Woodford Shale play for proceeds of $243 million.

9. Fair Value Measurements

Effective January 1, 2008, we adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, Fair Value Measurements for our financial assets and liabilities measured on a recurring basis. This statement establishes a framework for measuring fair value of assets and liabilities and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. In February 2008, the FASB issued FSP 157-2, which delayed the effective date of SFAS No. 157 by one year for nonfinancial assets and liabilities.

SFAS 157 defines fair value as the amount that would be received from the sale of an asset or paid for the transfer of a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants, i.e., an exit price. To quantify an exit price, a three-level hierarchy is used. The fair value hierarchy prioritizes the inputs, which refer broadly to assumptions market participants would use in pricing an asset or a liability, into three levels. Level 1 inputs are unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities and have the highest priority. Level 2 inputs are inputs other than quoted prices within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either

 

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CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

directly or indirectly. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the financial asset or liability and have the lowest priority. Chesapeake uses appropriate valuation techniques based on available inputs, including counterparty quotes, to measure the fair values of its assets and liabilities. Counterparty quotes are generally assessed as a Level 3 input.

The following table provides fair value measurement information for financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of March 31, 2008.

 

     Quoted
Prices in
Active
Markets
(Level 1)
    Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
    Significant
Unobservable
Inputs

(Level 3)
    Total
Fair Value
 
     ($ in millions)  

Financial Assets (Liabilities):

        

Derivatives

   $     $ (789 )   $ (1,443 )   $ (2,232 )

Investments

   $ 44     $     $     $ 44  

Other long-term assets

   $ 19     $     $     $ 19  

Long-term debt

   $     $     $ (1,740 )   $ (1,740 )

Other long-term liabilities

   $ (19 )   $     $     $ (19 )

The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair values of the assets and liabilities in the table above.

Level 1 Fair Value Measurements

Investments. The fair value of Chesapeake’s investment in Gastar Exploration Ltd. common stock is based on a quoted market price.

Other Long-Term Assets and Liabilities. The fair value of other long-term assets and liabilities, consisting of our Deferred Compensation Plan, is based on quoted market prices.

Level 2 Fair Value Measurements

Derivatives. The fair values of our natural gas swaps are measured internally using established index prices and other sources. These values are based upon, among other things, futures prices and time to maturity.

Level 3 Fair Value Measurements

Derivatives. The fair values of our derivatives, excluding natural gas swaps, are based on estimates provided by our respective counterparties and reviewed internally using established index prices and other sources. These values are based upon, among other things, futures prices, interest rate curves and time to maturity.

Debt. The fair value of our long-term debt is based on face value of the debt along with the value of the related interest rate swaps. The interest rate swap values are based on estimates provided by our respective counterparties and reviewed internally for reasonableness using future interest rate curves and time to maturity.

A reconciliation of Chesapeake’s assets and liabilities classified as Level 3 measurements is presented below.

 

     Derivatives     Debt     Total  
     ($ in millions)  

Balance of Level 3 as of January 1, 2008

   $ (340 )   $ (2,404 )   $ (2,744 )

Total gains or losses (realized/unrealized):

      

Included in earnings(a)

     (1,053 )     (36 )     (1,089 )

Included in other comprehensive income (loss)

     (32 )           (32 )

Purchases, issuances and settlements

     (18 )     700 (b)     682  

Transfers in and out of Level 3

                  
                        

Balance of Level 3 as of March 31, 2008

   $ (1,443 )   $ (1,740 )   $ (3,183 )
                        

 

(a)

      
      Natural Gas
and
Oil Revenue
    Interest
Expense
     ($ in millions)

         Total gains and losses included in earnings for the period (above)

   $ (1,112 )   $ 59
              

         Change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets still held at reporting date

   $ (1,060 )   $ 59
              

(b)    Amount represents debt no longer recorded at fair value due to the closing of the related interest rate swap in the Current Quarter.

 

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CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

10. Recently Issued and Proposed Accounting Standards

The FASB recently issued the following standards which were reviewed by Chesapeake to determine the potential impact on our financial statements upon adoption.

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. This statement expands the use of fair value measurement and applies to entities that elect the fair value option. The fair value option established by this statement permits all entities to choose to measure eligible items at fair value at specified election dates. This statement is effective as of the beginning of the first fiscal year that begins after November 15, 2007. Since we have not elected to adopt the fair value option for eligible items, SFAS No. 159 has not had an impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements an amendment of Accounting Research Bulletin No. 51. This statement requires an entity to separately disclose non-controlling interests as a separate component of equity in the balance sheet and clearly identify on the face of the income statement net income related to non-controlling interests. This statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. We are currently assessing the impact, if any, the adoption of this statement will have on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141(R), Business Combinations. This statement requires assets acquired and liabilities assumed to be measured at fair value as of the acquisition date, acquisition-related costs incurred prior to the acquisition to be expensed and contractual contingencies to be recognized at fair value as of the acquisition date. This statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. We are currently assessing the impact, if any, the adoption of this statement will have on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133. This Statement changes the disclosure requirements for derivative instruments and hedging activities. The Statement requires that objectives for using derivative instruments be disclosed in terms of underlying risk and accounting designation. This statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008. We are currently assessing the impact that adoption of this statement will have on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

The FASB has announced that it plans to issue proposed staff guidance on accounting for convertible debt instruments that may be settled in cash upon conversion, including partial cash settlements. This accounting could increase the amount of interest expense required to be recognized with respect to such instruments and, thus, lower reported net income and net income per share of issuers of such instruments. Issuers would have to account for the liability and equity components of the instrument separately and in a manner that reflects interest expense at the interest rate of similar nonconvertible debt. We have two debt series that would be affected by the guidance, our 2.75% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes due 2035 and our 2.5% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes due 2037. If the FASB adopts the guidance, companies would have to apply the guidance retrospectively to both existing and new instruments that fall within the scope of the guidance.

11. Subsequent Events

On April 2, 2008, we completed a public offering of 23 million shares of common stock at $45.75 per share. Net proceeds of approximately $1.011 billion were used to repay outstanding borrowings under our revolving bank credit facility, which may be reborrowed to fund our recently announced drilling and land acquisition initiatives and for other general corporate purposes.

Subsequent to March 31, 2008, a holder of our 5.0% (Series 2005B) cumulative convertible preferred stock exchanged 1,689,300 shares for 4,845,266 shares of common stock in two privately negotiated exchanges.

On May 1, 2008, we sold certain Chesapeake-operated long-lived producing assets in Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas in a volumetric production payment transaction for proceeds of approximately $623 million. These assets had estimated proved reserves of approximately 94 bcfe and current net production of approximately 47 mmcfe

 

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CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

 

per day. Chesapeake retained drilling rights on the properties below currently producing intervals. For accounting purposes, the transaction will be treated as a sale and the company’s proved reserves will be reduced accordingly.

On May 1, 2008, we announced our intention to sell all of our Arkoma Basin Woodford Shale properties in Hughes, Pittsburg, Coal and Atoka counties in Oklahoma. The properties consist of approximately 85,000 net acres and 40 mmcfe per day of current production. We expect to receive proceeds of over $1.2 billion from the sale of the properties and anticipate completing a transaction in mid-2008.

 

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PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

ITEM 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Overview

The following table sets forth certain information regarding the production volumes, natural gas and oil sales, average sales prices received, other operating income and expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2008 (the “Current Quarter”) and the three months ended March 31, 2007 (the “Prior Quarter”):

 

     Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
     2008     2007  

Net Production:

    

Natural gas (mmcf)

     187,772       140,792  

Oil (mbbls)

     2,746       2,143  

Natural gas equivalent (mmcfe)

     204,248       153,650  

Natural Gas and Oil Sales ($ in millions):

    

Natural gas sales

   $ 1,432     $ 888  

Natural gas derivatives – realized gains (losses)

     268       415  

Natural gas derivatives – unrealized gains (losses)

     (1,002 )     (297 )
                

Total natural gas sales

     698       1,006  
                

Oil sales

     258       113  

Oil derivatives – realized gains (losses)

     (53 )     18  

Oil derivatives – unrealized gains (losses)

     (130 )     (12 )
                

Total oil sales

     75       119  
                

Total natural gas and oil sales

   $ 773     $ 1,125  
                

Average Sales Price (excluding all gains (losses) on derivatives):

    

Natural gas ($ per mcf)

   $ 7.63     $ 6.31  

Oil ($ per bbl)

   $ 94.14     $ 52.80  

Natural gas equivalent ($ per mcfe)

   $ 8.28     $ 6.52  

Average Sales Price (excluding unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives):

    

Natural gas ($ per mcf)

   $ 9.05     $ 9.26  

Oil ($ per bbl)

   $ 74.73     $ 61.13  

Natural gas equivalent ($ per mcfe)

   $ 9.33     $ 9.33  

Other Operating Income(a) ($ in millions):

    

Natural gas and oil marketing

   $ 22     $ 15  

Service operations

   $ 7     $ 11  

Other Operating Income ($ per mcfe):

    

Natural gas and oil marketing

   $ 0.11     $ 0.10  

Service operations

   $ 0.03     $ 0.08  

Expenses ($ per mcfe):

    

Production expenses

   $ 0.98     $ 0.93  

Production taxes

   $ 0.37     $ 0.27  

General and administrative expenses

   $ 0.39     $ 0.34  

Natural gas and oil depreciation, depletion and amortization

   $ 2.52     $ 2.56  

Depreciation and amortization of other assets

   $ 0.18     $ 0.23  

Interest expense(b)

   $ 0.43     $ 0.50  

Interest Expense ($ in millions):

    

Interest expense

   $ 88     $ 76  

Interest rate derivatives – realized (gains) losses

           2  

Interest rate derivatives – unrealized (gains) losses

     13       1  
                

Total interest expense

   $ 101     $ 79  
                

Net Wells Drilled

     448       461  

Net Producing Wells as of the End of the Period

     21,840       19,623  

 

(a)

Includes revenue and operating costs.

(b)

Includes the effects of realized gains (losses) from interest rate derivatives, but excludes the effects of unrealized gains (losses) and is net of amounts capitalized.

 

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We are the third largest producer of natural gas in the United States (second among independents). We own interests in approximately 39,200 producing natural gas and oil wells that are currently producing approximately 2.3 bcfe per day, 92% of which is natural gas. Our strategy is focused on discovering, acquiring and developing conventional and unconventional natural gas reserves onshore in the U.S., east of the Rocky Mountains.

Our most important operating area has historically been the Mid-Continent region of Oklahoma, Arkansas, southwestern Kansas and the Texas Panhandle. At March 31, 2008, 47% of our estimated proved natural gas and oil reserves were located in the Mid-Continent region. During the past five years, we have also built significant positions in various conventional and unconventional plays in the Fort Worth Basin in north-central Texas; the Appalachian Basin, principally in West Virginia, eastern Kentucky, eastern Ohio, Pennsylvania and southern New York; the Permian and Delaware Basins of West Texas and eastern New Mexico; the Ark-La-Tex area of East Texas and northern Louisiana; and the South Texas and Texas Gulf Coast regions. We have established a top-three position in nearly every major unconventional play onshore in the U.S. east of the Rockies, including the Barnett Shale, the Arkansas Fayetteville Shale, the Louisiana Haynesville Shale, the Appalachian Basin Devonian and Marcellus Shales, the Delaware Basin Barnett and Woodford Shales in West Texas, and the Alabama Conasauga and Chattanooga Shales.

Natural gas and oil production for the Current Quarter was 204.2 bcfe, an increase of 50.5 bcfe, or 33% over the 153.7 bcfe produced in the Prior Quarter. The Current Quarter marked the 27th consecutive quarter we have increased our production. During these 27 quarters, Chesapeake’s U.S. production has increased 467% for an average compound quarterly growth rate of 6.6% and an average compound annual growth rate of 29.2%.

During the Current Quarter, Chesapeake continued the industry’s most active drilling program and drilled 478 gross (400 net) operated wells and participated in another 422 gross (48 net) wells operated by other companies. The company’s drilling success rate was 100% for company-operated wells and 98% for non-operated wells. Also during the Current Quarter, we invested $1.182 billion in operated wells (using an average of 140 operated rigs) and $192 million in non-operated wells (using an average of 93 non-operated rigs). Total costs incurred in natural gas and oil acquisition, exploration and development activities during the Current Quarter, including seismic, unproved properties, leasehold, capitalized interest and internal costs, non-cash tax basis step-up and asset retirement obligations, were $2.2 billion.

Chesapeake began 2008 with estimated proved reserves of 10.879 tcfe and ended the Current Quarter with 11.480 tcfe, an increase of 601 bcfe, or 6%. During the Current Quarter, we replaced 204 bcfe of production with an internally estimated 805 bcfe of new proved reserves, for a reserve replacement rate of 395%. Reserve replacement through the drillbit was 798 bcfe, or 391% of production (including 365 bcfe of positive performance revisions and 112 bcfe of positive revisions resulting from natural gas and oil price increases between December 31, 2007 and March 31, 2008). Reserve replacement through the acquisition of proved reserves was 39 bcfe. During the Current Quarter, we divested 32 bcfe of estimated proved reserves. Based on our current drilling schedule and budget, we expect that virtually all of the proved undeveloped reserves added in 2008 will begin producing within the next three to five years. Generally, proved developed reserves are producing at the time they are added or will begin producing within one year.

Since 2000, Chesapeake has invested $10.3 billion in new leasehold and 3-D seismic acquisitions and now owns what we believe are the largest combined inventories of onshore leasehold (13.9 million net acres) and 3-D seismic (20.0 million acres) in the U.S. On this leasehold, the company has approximately 33,700 net drillsites representing more than a 10-year inventory of drilling projects.

As of March 31, 2008, the company’s debt as a percentage of total capitalization (total capitalization is the sum of debt and stockholders’ equity) was 52% compared to 47% as of December 31, 2007. The average maturity of our long-term debt is over eight years with an average interest rate of approximately 5.8%.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

During March 2008, we announced three new unconventional natural gas discoveries – the Haynesville Shale in Louisiana and the Colony Granite Wash and Mountain Front Granite Wash in Oklahoma – and five new unconventional oil projects. We are increasing the drilling and leasehold acquisition activities in these new plays as well as in our existing plays in the Barnett Shale in North Texas, the Fayetteville Shale in Arkansas and the Marcellus and Lower Huron Shales in Appalachia. In order to exploit these new discoveries and to increase the pace of drilling and leasehold acquisition in our existing plays, we have increased our budgeted exploration and production capital expenditures, net of estimated proceeds from planned sales of natural gas and oil leasehold and producing properties, to $5.3 billion in 2008 and $6.8 billion in 2009.

 

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We had previously planned to fund our 2008 and 2009 capital expenditures through cash flow from operations, borrowings under our revolving credit facility and from asset monetizations. Our previously announced asset monetizations remain on track, and on May 1, 2008, we announced a new planned transaction to sell leasehold for anticipated proceeds of over $1.2 billion in mid-2008. Considering the increasing number of opportunities available, however, we expect to fund some or all of our additional capital expenditures through public capital market transactions. In addition, we will continue to evaluate alternative natural gas and oil monetizations and financing opportunities, including transactions involving our undeveloped acreage and non-strategic assets. We believe the various sources of cash available to us will provide us with sufficient liquidity to execute our business strategy and fund our budgeted capital expenditure requirements for the foreseeable future.

On April 2, 2008, we completed a public offering of 23 million shares of common stock at $45.75 per share. Net proceeds of approximately $1.011 billion were used to repay outstanding borrowings under our revolving bank credit facility, which may be reborrowed from time to time to fund our recently announced drilling and land acquisition initiatives and for other general corporate purposes.

Sources and Uses of Funds

Cash flow from operations is our primary source of liquidity to meet operating expenses and fund capital expenditures (other than for acquisitions outside our budgeted leasehold and property acquisitions). Cash provided by operating activities was $1.498 billion in the Current Quarter compared to $977 million in the Prior Quarter. The $521 million increase in the Current Quarter was primarily due to higher volumes of natural gas and oil production. Changes in cash flow from operations are largely due to the same factors that affect our net income excluding non-cash items, such as depreciation, depletion and amortization, deferred income taxes and unrealized gains and (losses) on derivatives. See the discussion below under Results of Operations.

Changes in market prices for natural gas and oil directly impact the level of our cash flow from operations. While a decline in natural gas or oil prices would affect the amount of cash flow that would be generated from operations, we currently have natural gas and oil hedges in place covering 74% of our expected remaining natural gas production in 2008 and 72% of our expected remaining oil production in 2008, thereby minimizing the commodity price risk associated with a substantial portion of our 2008 cash flow. Our natural gas and oil hedges as of March 31, 2008 are detailed in Item 3 of Part I of this report. Depending on changes in natural gas and oil futures markets and management’s view of underlying natural gas and oil supply and demand trends, we may increase or decrease our current hedging positions.

As of March 31, 2008, we had a net natural gas and oil derivative liability of $2.232 billion as a result of significant increases in natural gas and oil prices since December 31, 2007. We satisfy commodity derivative liabilities from a portion of the proceeds of natural gas and oil production sold at market prices during the period of contract settlement (which will occur through 2022). The remaining proceeds, representing the derivative contract price, are included in our budget estimates. We have arrangements with our hedging counterparties that allow us to minimize the potential liquidity impact of significant mark-to-market fluctuations in the value of our natural gas and oil hedges by making collateral allocations from our bank credit facility or directly pledging natural gas and oil properties, rather than posting cash or letters of credit with the counterparties.

Our $3.5 billion bank credit facility is another source of liquidity. At May 8, 2008, there was $501 million of borrowing capacity available under the revolving bank credit facility. We use the facility to fund daily operating activities and acquisitions as needed. We borrowed $2.591 billion and repaid $1.377 billion in the Current Quarter, and we borrowed $1.833 billion and repaid $858 million in the Prior Quarter.

Our primary use of funds is for capital expenditures related to exploration, development and acquisition of natural gas and oil properties. We refer you to the table under Investing Activities below, which sets forth the components of our natural gas and oil investing activities for the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter. Our drilling, land and seismic capital expenditures are currently budgeted at $5.3 billion in 2008. We believe this level of exploration and development will enable us to increase our total production by 21% in 2008 (inclusive of acquisitions completed or scheduled to close in 2008 through the filing date of this report but without regard to any additional acquisitions that may be completed in 2008).

 

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We retain a significant degree of control over the timing of our capital expenditures which permits us to defer or accelerate certain capital expenditures if necessary to address any potential liquidity issues. In addition, higher drilling and field operating costs, drilling results that alter planned development schedules, acquisitions or other factors could cause us to revise our drilling program, which is largely discretionary.

We paid dividends on our common stock of $33 million and $27 million in the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, respectively. The board of directors increased the quarterly dividend on common stock from $0.06 to $0.0675 per share beginning with the dividend paid in July 2007. We paid dividends on our preferred stock of $12 million and $26 million in the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, respectively. We received $4 million and $3 million from the exercise of employee and director stock options in the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, respectively.

In the Current Quarter and Prior Quarter, we paid $33 million and $22 million, respectively, to settle a portion of the derivative liabilities assumed in our November 2005 acquisition of Columbia Natural Resources, LLC.

On January 1, 2006, we adopted SFAS 123(R), which requires tax benefits resulting from stock-based compensation deductions in excess of amounts reported for financial reporting purposes to be reported as cash flows from financing activities. In the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, we reported a tax benefit from stock-based compensation of $11 million and $4 million, respectively.

Outstanding payments from certain disbursement accounts in excess of funded cash balances where no legal right of set-off exists increased $44 million in the Current Quarter and decreased $8 million in the Prior Quarter. All disbursements are funded on the day they are presented to our bank using available cash on hand or draws on our revolving bank credit facility.

Credit Risk

A significant portion of our liquidity is concentrated in derivative instruments that enable us to hedge a portion of our exposure to natural gas and oil prices and interest rate volatility. These arrangements expose us to credit risk from our counterparties. To mitigate this risk, we enter into derivative contracts only with investment grade rated counterparties deemed by management to be competent and competitive market makers. Recently there have been concerns about the ability of certain investment banks to continue to meet their financial obligations. A notable example is our counterparty, Bear Stearns, which faced a liquidity crisis in early March 2008. The Bear Stearns parent and JPMorgan Chase & Co. (JPM) entered into an agreement as of March 16, 2008 for JPM to acquire Bear Stearns, and JPM unconditionally guaranteed payment of Bear Stearns’ liabilities for the period specified in the guaranty, including liabilities that might arise under our derivative contracts with Bear Stearns affiliates. As of March 31, 2008, we recorded a liability of $30 million for our hedging contracts with Bear Stearns affiliates. Should settlements of these contracts result in amounts being owed to us, we believe they would be covered by the JPM guaranty. We monitor our counterparties and do not believe a failure by an investment bank counterparty would have a material negative impact on our liquidity.

Our accounts receivable are primarily from purchasers of natural gas and oil ($1.024 billion at March 31, 2008) and exploration and production companies which own interests in properties we operate ($170 million at March 31, 2008). This industry concentration has the potential to impact our overall exposure to credit risk, either positively or negatively, in that our customers and joint working interest owners may be similarly affected by changes in economic, industry or other conditions. We generally require letters of credit for receivables from parties which are judged to have sub-standard credit, unless the credit risk can otherwise be mitigated.

 

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Investing Activities

Cash used in investing activities increased to $2.675 billion during the Current Quarter, compared to $1.869 billion during the Prior Quarter. Over the past year, we have continued our active drilling program and shifted our acquisition strategy from significant stock and asset acquisitions to targeted leasehold and property acquisitions needed for planned natural gas and oil development. Our investing activities during the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter reflect our increasing focus on converting our resource inventory into production, redeploying our capital by selling natural gas and oil properties with lower rates of return and increasing our investment in properties with higher return potential, and investing in drilling rigs, midstream systems, compressors and other property and equipment to support our natural gas and oil exploration, development and production activities. The following table shows our cash used in (provided by) investing activities during these periods:

 

     Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
     2008     2007  
     ($ in millions)  

Natural Gas and Oil Investing Activities:

  

Exploration and development of natural gas and oil properties

   $ 1,322     $ 1,053  

Acquisitions of natural gas and oil companies and proved properties, net of cash acquired

     64       162  

Acquisition of leasehold and unproved properties

     860       344  

Geological and geophysical costs

     84       50  

Interest on leasehold and unproved properties

     80       61  

Deposits for acquisitions

           7  

Divestitures of proved and unproved properties and leasehold

     (243 )      
                

Total natural gas and oil investing activities

     2,167       1,677  
                

Other Investing Activities:

    

Additions to other property and equipment

     551       212  

Proceeds from sale of drilling rigs and equipment

     (34 )     (30 )

Proceeds from sale of compressors

     (17 )      

Additions to investments

     9       17  

Sale of non-natural gas and oil assets

     (1 )     (7 )
                

Total other investing activities

     508       192  
                

Total cash used in investing activities

   $ 2,675     $ 1,869  
                

Bank Credit and Hedging Facilities

We have a $3.5 billion syndicated revolving bank credit facility that matures in November 2012. As of March 31, 2008, we had $3.164 billion in outstanding borrowings under this facility and had utilized approximately $4 million of the facility for various letters of credit. Borrowings under the facility are secured by certain producing natural gas and oil properties and bear interest at our option at either (i) the greater of the reference rate of Union Bank of California, N.A., or the federal funds effective rate plus 0.50% or (ii) London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR), plus a margin that varies from 0.75% to 1.50% per annum according to our senior unsecured long-term debt ratings. The collateral value and borrowing base are redetermined periodically. The unused portion of the facility is subject to a commitment fee that also varies according to our senior unsecured long-term debt ratings, from 0.125% to 0.30% per annum. Currently the commitment fee is 0.20% per annum. Interest is payable quarterly or, if LIBOR applies, it may be payable at more frequent intervals. Our subsidiaries, Chesapeake Exploration, L.L.C. and Chesapeake Appalachia, L.L.C., are the borrowers under our revolving bank credit facility and Chesapeake and all its other wholly-owned subsidiaries except minor subsidiaries are guarantors.

The credit facility agreement contains various covenants and restrictive provisions which limit our ability to incur additional indebtedness, make investments or loans and create liens. The credit facility agreement requires us to maintain an indebtedness to total capitalization ratio (as defined) not to exceed 0.70 to 1 and an indebtedness to EBITDA ratio (as defined) not to exceed 3.75 to 1. As defined by the credit facility agreement, our indebtedness to total capitalization ratio was 0.52 to 1 and our indebtedness to EBITDA ratio was 2.23 to 1 at March 31, 2008. If we should fail to perform our obligations under these and other covenants, the revolving credit commitment could be terminated and any outstanding borrowings under the facility could be declared immediately due and payable. Such acceleration, if involving a principal amount of $10 million ($50 million in the case of our senior notes issued after 2004), would constitute an event of default under our senior note indentures which could in turn result in the acceleration of a significant portion of our senior note indebtedness. The credit facility agreement also has cross default provisions that apply to other indebtedness we may have with an outstanding principal amount in excess of $75 million.

 

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We have six secured hedging facilities, each of which permits us to enter into cash-settled natural gas and oil commodity transactions, valued by the counterparty, for up to a stated maximum value. Outstanding transactions under each facility are collateralized by certain of our natural gas and oil properties that do not secure any of our other obligations. The value of reserve collateral pledged to each facility is required to be at least 1.3 times the fair value of transactions outstanding under each facility. In addition, we may pledge collateral from our revolving bank credit facility, from time to time, to these facilities to meet our collateral coverage requirements. The hedging facilities are subject to an annual exposure fee, which is assessed quarterly based on the average of the daily negative fair value amounts of the hedges, if any, during the quarter. The hedging facilities contain the standard representations and default provisions that are typical of such agreements. The agreements also contain various restrictive provisions which govern the aggregate natural gas and oil production volumes that we are permitted to hedge under all of our agreements at any one time. The stated maximum capacity under each facility, per annum exposure fees, scheduled maturity dates and the fair value of outstanding transactions are shown below.

 

     Secured Hedging Facilities (a)  
     #1     #2     #3     #4     #5     #6  
     ($ in millions)  

Stated maximum value of transactions under facility

   $ 750     $ 500     $ 500     $ 250     $ 500     $ 500  

Per annum exposure fee

     1 %     1 %     0.8 %     0.8 %     0.8 %     0.8 %

Scheduled maturity date

     2010       2010       2020       2012       2012       2012  

Fair value of outstanding transactions, as of March 31, 2008

   $ (90 )   $ (764 )   $ (421 )   $ (76 )   $ (76 )   $ (147 )

 

(a)

Chesapeake Exploration, L.L.C. is the named party to the facilities numbered 1 – 3 and Chesapeake Energy Corporation is the named party to the facilities numbered 4 – 6.

Our revolving bank credit facility and secured hedging facilities do not contain material adverse change or adequate assurance covenants. Although the applicable interest rates and commitment fees in our bank credit facility fluctuate slightly based on our long-term senior unsecured credit ratings, the bank facility and the secured hedging facilities do not contain provisions which would trigger an acceleration of amounts due under the facilities or a requirement to post additional collateral in the event of a downgrade of our credit ratings.

Senior Note Obligations

In addition to outstanding revolving bank credit facility borrowings discussed above, as of March 31, 2008, senior notes represented approximately $9.1 billion of our long-term debt and consisted of the following ($ in millions):

 

7.5% Senior Notes due 2013

   $ 364  

7.625% Senior Notes due 2013

     500  

7.0% Senior Notes due 2014

     300  

7.5% Senior Notes due 2014

     300  

6.375% Senior Notes due 2015

     600  

7.75% Senior Notes due 2015

     300  

6.625% Senior Notes due 2016

     600  

6.875% Senior Notes due 2016

     670  

6.25% Euro-denominated Senior Notes due 2017 (a)

     948  

6.5% Senior Notes due 2017

     1,100  

6.25% Senior Notes due 2018

     600  

6.875% Senior Notes due 2020

     500  

2.75% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes due 2035

     690  

2.5% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes due 2037

     1,650  

Discount on senior notes

     (102 )

Impact of interest rate derivatives

     66  
        
   $ 9,086  
        

 

(a)

The principal amount shown is based on the dollar/euro exchange rate of $1.5805 to €1.00 as of March 31, 2008. See Note 2 of our accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements for information on our related cross currency swap.

 

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No scheduled principal payments are required under our senior notes until 2013, when $864 million is due. The holders of the 2.75% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes due 2035 may require us to repurchase, in cash, all or a portion of these notes on November 15, 2015, 2020, 2025 and 2030 at 100% of the principal amount of the notes. The holders of the 2.5% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes due 2037 may require us to repurchase, in cash, all or a portion of these notes on May 15, 2017, 2022, 2027 and 2032 at 100% of the principal amount of the notes. The notes are convertible, at the holder’s option, prior to maturity under certain circumstances, into cash and, if applicable, shares of our common stock using a net share settlement process. One such triggering circumstance is that the price of our common stock exceeds a threshold amount during a specified period. At May 9, 2008, that threshold amount was $48.831 for the 2.75% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes and $64.477 for the 2.5% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes. If the price of our common stock remains at current trading levels (closing price on May 9, 2008 of $56.67), or continues to increase, it is likely that holders of our 2.75% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes will have the option to convert their notes into cash and common stock in the third quarter of 2008. However, we believe the trading prices of the notes will remain above the respective trigger conversion prices such that holders would realize greater value by selling their notes in the open market as opposed to converting them into cash and common stock. In general, upon conversion of a convertible senior note, the holder will receive cash equal to the principal amount of the note and common stock for the note’s conversion value in excess of such principal amount.

As of March 31, 2008 and currently, debt ratings for the senior notes are Ba3 by Moody’s Investor Service (negative outlook), BB by Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services (positive outlook) and BB by Fitch Ratings (negative outlook).

Our senior notes are unsecured senior obligations of Chesapeake and rank equally in right of payment with all of our other existing and future senior indebtedness and rank senior in right of payment to all of our future subordinated indebtedness. All of our wholly-owned subsidiaries, except minor subsidiaries, fully and unconditionally guarantee the notes jointly and severally on an unsecured basis. Senior notes issued before July 2005 are governed by indentures containing covenants that limit our ability and our restricted subsidiaries’ ability to incur additional indebtedness; pay dividends on our capital stock or redeem, repurchase or retire our capital stock or subordinated indebtedness; make investments and other restricted payments; incur liens; enter into sale/leaseback transactions; create restrictions on the payment of dividends or other amounts to us from our restricted subsidiaries; engage in transactions with affiliates; sell assets; and consolidate, merge or transfer assets. Senior notes issued after June 2005 are governed by indentures containing covenants that limit our ability and our restricted subsidiaries’ ability to incur certain secured indebtedness; enter into sale/leaseback transactions; and consolidate, merge or transfer assets. The debt incurrence covenants do not presently restrict our ability to borrow under or expand our secured credit facility. As of March 31, 2008, we estimate that secured commercial bank indebtedness of approximately $5.5 billion could have been incurred under the most restrictive indenture covenant.

Other Contractual Obligations

Chesapeake has various financial obligations which are not recorded as liabilities in its condensed consolidated balance sheet at March 31, 2008. These include commitments related to drilling rig and compressor leases, transportation and drilling contracts and lending and guarantee agreements. These commitments are discussed in Note 3 of our condensed consolidated financial statements included in Part 1 of this report.

Union Contract

As a result of the CNR acquisition, we assumed a collective bargaining agreement with the United Steel Workers of America (“USWA”) which expired effective December 1, 2006, covering approximately 135 of our field employees in West Virginia and Kentucky. We continued to operate under the terms of the collective bargaining agreement while negotiating with the USWA. Contract negotiations began in October 2006 and have been mediated by the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service. On May 4, 2007, we presented the USWA leadership our “last, best and final offer”. On December 7, 2007, the USWA membership voted to reject our offer. The company declared impasse and, effective February 1, 2008 we implemented the terms of our offer with certain minor clarifications. On March 12, 2008, the USWA filed an Unfair Labor Practice Charge with the National Labor Relations Board (“NLRB”). We have responded to the charge and are awaiting the outcome from the NLRB. There have been no strikes, work stoppages or slowdowns since the expiration of the contract, although no assurances can be given that such actions will not occur.

 

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Results of Operations – Three Months Ended March 31, 2008 vs. March 31, 2007

General. For the Current Quarter, Chesapeake had a net loss of $132 million, or $0.29 per diluted common share, on total revenues of $1.611 billion. This compares to net income of $258 million, or $0.50 per diluted common share, on total revenues of $1.580 billion during the Prior Quarter. The Current Quarter loss is due to an unrealized non-cash after-tax mark-to-market loss of $704 million related to future period natural gas and oil and interest rate hedges resulting primarily from higher natural gas and oil prices as of March 31, 2008 compared to December 31, 2007.

Natural Gas and Oil Sales. During the Current Quarter, natural gas and oil sales were $773 million compared to $1.125 billion in the Prior Quarter. In the Current Quarter, Chesapeake produced 204.2 bcfe compared to 153.7 bcfe produced in the Prior Quarter at weighted average prices for both quarters of $9.33 per mcfe (weighted average prices exclude the effect of unrealized losses on natural gas and oil derivatives of $1.132 billion and $309 million in the Current Quarter and Prior Quarter, respectively). Excluding unrealized gains or losses on natural gas and oil derivatives, increased production volume resulted in a $471 million increase in revenue in the Current Quarter. The increase in production from the Prior Quarter to the Current Quarter was primarily generated from the drillbit.

For the Current Quarter, we realized an average price per mcf of natural gas of $9.05, compared to $9.26 in the Prior Quarter (weighted average prices for both quarters discussed exclude the effect of unrealized gains or losses on derivatives). Oil prices realized per barrel (excluding unrealized gains or losses on derivatives) were $74.73 and $61.13 in the Current Quarter and Prior Quarter, respectively. Realized gains or losses from our natural gas and oil derivatives resulted in a net increase in natural gas and oil revenues of $214 million, or $1.05 per mcfe, in the Current Quarter and $433 million, or $2.82 per mcfe, in the Prior Quarter.

Changes in natural gas and oil prices have a significant impact on our natural gas and oil revenues and cash flow. Assuming the Current Quarter production levels, a change of $0.10 per mcf of natural gas sold would have resulted in an increase or decrease in revenues and cash flow of approximately $19 million and $18 million, respectively, and a change of $1.00 per barrel of oil sold would have resulted in an increase or decrease in revenues and cash flow of approximately $3 million without considering the effect of derivative activities.

The following table shows our production by region for the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter:

 

     For the Three Months Ended March 31,  
     2008     2007  
     Mmcfe    Percent     Mmcfe    Percent  

Mid-Continent

   105,928    52 %   81,705    53 %

Barnett Shale

   37,973    18     16,155    11  

Permian and Delaware Basins

   19,796    10     12,706    8  

South Texas and Texas Gulf Coast

   18,890    9     19,144    13  

Ark-La-Tex

   13,777    7     12,860    8  

Appalachian Basin (a)

   7,884    4     11,080    7  
                      

Total production

   204,248    100 %   153,650    100 %
                      

 

(a)

The Current Quarter results reflect the sale of 55 mmcfe per day of production in a volumetric production payment (VPP) transaction as of December 31, 2007.

Natural gas production represented approximately 92% of our total production volume on a natural gas equivalent basis in both the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter.

Natural Gas and Oil Marketing Sales and Operating Expenses. Natural gas and oil marketing activities are substantially for third parties who are owners in Chesapeake-operated wells. Chesapeake realized $796 million in natural gas and oil marketing sales in the Current Quarter, with corresponding natural gas and oil marketing expenses of $774 million, for a net margin before depreciation of $22 million. This compares to sales of $422 million, expenses of $407 million and a net margin before depreciation of $15 million in the Prior Quarter. In the Current Quarter, Chesapeake realized an increase in natural gas and oil marketing sales volumes related to the increase in production on Chesapeake-operated wells.

Service Operations Revenue and Operating Expenses. Service operations consist of third-party revenue and operating expenses related to our drilling and oilfield trucking operations. These operations have grown as a result of assets and businesses we acquired and leased. Chesapeake recognized $42 million in service operations revenue in the Current Quarter with corresponding service operations expense of $35 million, for a net margin before depreciation of $7 million. This compares to revenue of $33 million, expenses of $22 million and a net margin before depreciation of $11 million in the Prior Quarter.

 

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Production Expenses. Production expenses, which include lifting costs and ad valorem taxes, were $201 million in the Current Quarter compared to $142 million in the Prior Quarter. On a unit-of-production basis, production expenses were $0.98 per mcfe in the Current Quarter compared to $0.93 per mcfe in the Prior Quarter. The increase in the Current Quarter was primarily due to higher third-party field service costs, energy costs, fuel costs, ad valorem taxes and personnel costs. We expect that production expenses for 2008 will range from $0.95 to $1.05 per mcfe produced.

Production Taxes. Production taxes were $75 million in the Current Quarter compared to $42 million in the Prior Quarter. On a unit-of-production basis, production taxes were $0.37 per mcfe in the Current Quarter compared to $0.27 per mcfe in the Prior Quarter. The $33 million increase in production taxes in the Current Quarter is due to an increase in production of 51 bcfe and an increase in the realized average sales price of natural gas and oil of $1.76 per mcfe (excluding gains or losses on derivatives).

In general, production taxes are calculated using value-based formulas that produce higher per unit costs when natural gas and oil prices are higher. We expect production taxes for 2008 to range from $0.35 to $0.40 per mcfe based on NYMEX prices ranging from $7.60 to $8.90 per mcf of natural gas and oil prices of $84.48 per barrel.

General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative expenses, including stock-based compensation but excluding internal costs capitalized to our natural gas and oil properties, were $79 million in the Current Quarter and $52 million in the Prior Quarter. General and administrative expenses were $0.39 and $0.34 per mcfe for the Current Quarter and Prior Quarter, respectively. The increase in the Current Quarter was the result of the company’s overall growth as well as cost and wage inflation. Included in general and administrative expenses is stock-based compensation of $19 million and $10 million for the Current Quarter and Prior Quarter, respectively. This increase was mainly due to a higher number of unvested restricted shares outstanding during the Current Quarter and a higher stock price at the time of new grants. We anticipate that general and administrative expenses for 2008 will be between $0.43 and $0.49 per mcfe produced (including stock-based compensation ranging from $0.10 to $0.12 per mcfe).

Our stock-based compensation for employees and non-employee directors is in the form of restricted stock. Prior to 2004, stock-based compensation awards were only in the form of stock options. Employee stock-based compensation awards generally vest over a period of four or five years. Our non-employee director awards vest over a period of three years.

The discussion of stock-based compensation in Note 1 to the financial statements included in Part I of this report provides additional detail on the accounting for and reporting of our stock options and restricted stock.

Chesapeake follows the full-cost method of accounting under which all costs associated with natural gas and oil property acquisition, exploration and development activities are capitalized. We capitalize internal costs that can be directly identified with our acquisition, exploration and development activities and do not include any costs related to production, general corporate overhead or similar activities. We capitalized $84 million and $51 million of internal costs in the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, respectively, directly related to our natural gas and oil property acquisition, exploration and development efforts.

Natural Gas and Oil Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization. Depreciation, depletion and amortization of natural gas and oil properties was $515 million and $393 million during the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, respectively. The average DD&A rate per mcfe, which is a function of capitalized costs, future development costs and the related underlying reserves in the periods presented, was $2.52 and $2.56 in the Current Quarter and in the Prior Quarter, respectively. The $0.04 decrease in the average DD&A rate is primarily the result of our underlying reserve base growing faster than our capitalized costs and related future development costs. We expect the DD&A rate for 2008 to be between $2.50 and $2.70 per mcfe produced.

Depreciation and Amortization of Other Assets. Depreciation and amortization of other assets was $36 million in the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter. Depreciation and amortization of other assets was $0.18 and $0.23 per mcfe for the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter, respectively. The decrease per mcfe in the Current Quarter was primarily due to higher production volume. Property and equipment costs are depreciated on a straight-line basis. Buildings are depreciated over 15 to 39 years, gathering facilities are depreciated over 20 years, drilling rigs are depreciated over 15 years and all other property and equipment are depreciated over the estimated useful

 

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lives of the assets, which range from two to seven years. To the extent company-owned drilling rigs and equipment are used to drill our wells, a substantial portion of the depreciation is capitalized in natural gas and oil properties as exploration or development costs. We expect 2008 depreciation and amortization of other assets to be between $0.20 and $0.24 per mcfe produced.

Interest and Other Income. Interest and other income was ($9) million in the Current Quarter compared to $9 million in the Prior Quarter. The Current Quarter income consisted of $2 million of interest income, ($12) million related to losses of equity investees and $1 million of miscellaneous income. The Prior Quarter income consisted of $2 million of interest income, $6 million related to earnings of equity investees and $1 million of miscellaneous income.

Interest Expense. Interest expense increased to $101 million in the Current Quarter compared to $79 million in the Prior Quarter as follows:

 

     Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
     2008     2007  
     ($ in millions)  

Interest expense on senior notes and revolving bank credit facility

   $ 167     $ 135  

Capitalized interest

     (86 )     (64 )

Realized (gain) loss on interest rate derivatives

           2  

Unrealized (gain) loss on interest rate derivatives

     13       1  

Amortization of loan discount and other

     7       5  
                

Total interest expense

   $ 101     $ 79  
                

Average long-term borrowings

   $ 8,974     $ 7,324  
                

Interest expense, excluding unrealized gains or losses on derivatives and net of amounts capitalized, was $0.43 per mcfe in the Current Quarter compared to $0.50 in the Prior Quarter. The decrease in interest expense per mcfe is due to increased production volumes. We expect interest expense for 2008 to be between $0.50 and $0.55 per mcfe produced (before considering the effect of interest rate derivatives).

Income Tax Expense. Chesapeake recorded an income tax benefit of $82 million in the Current Quarter, compared to income tax expense of $158 million in the Prior Quarter. Of the $240 million decrease in the Current Quarter, $239 million was the result of the decrease in net income before income taxes and $1 million was the result of an increase in the effective tax rate. Our effective income tax rate was 38.5% in the Current Quarter and 38% in the Prior Quarter. Our effective tax rate fluctuates as a result of the impact of state income taxes and permanent differences. Most of our 2007 income tax expense was deferred, and we expect most of our 2008 income tax expense to be deferred.

Critical Accounting Policies

We consider accounting policies related to hedging, natural gas and oil properties, income taxes and business combinations to be critical policies. These policies are summarized in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007 (“2007 Form 10-K”).

        Effective January 1, 2008, we adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, Fair Value Measurements for our financial assets and liabilities measured on a recurring basis. This statement establishes a framework for measuring fair value of assets and liabilities and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. In February 2008, the FASB issued FSP 157-2, which delayed the effective date of SFAS No. 157 by one year for nonfinancial assets and liabilities.

        SFAS 157 defines fair value as the amount that would be received from the sale of an asset or paid for the transfer of a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants, i.e., an exit price. To quantify an exit price, a three-level hierarchy is used. The fair value hierarchy prioritizes the inputs, which refer broadly to assumptions market participants would use in pricing an asset or a liability, into three levels. Level 1 inputs are unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities and have the highest priority. Level 2 inputs are inputs other than quoted prices within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the financial asset or liability and have the lowest priority. Chesapeake uses appropriate valuation techniques based on available inputs, including counterparty quotes to measure the fair values of its assets and liabilities. Counterparty quotes are generally assessed as a Level 3 input.

        As of March 31, 2008, we had a net derivative liability of $2.232 billion, of which 65% was based on estimates provided by our respective counterparties and reviewed internally using established indexes and other sources and, as such, are classified as a Level 3 fair value measurement. The accounting applicable to our natural gas and oil derivative contracts is discussed in Note 2 and Note 9 of our condensed consolidated financial statements included in Part 1 of this report.

Recently Issued and Proposed Accounting Standards

The Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) recently issued the following standards which were reviewed by Chesapeake to determine the potential impact on our financial statements upon adoption.

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. This statement expands the use of fair value measurement and applies to entities that elect the fair value option. The fair value option established by this statement permits all entities to choose to measure eligible items at fair value at specified election dates. This statement is effective as of the beginning of the first fiscal year that begins after November 15, 2007. Since we have not elected to adopt the fair value option for eligible items, SFAS No. 159 has not had an impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

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In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements an amendment of Accounting Research Bulletin No. 51. This statement requires an entity to separately disclose non-controlling interests as a separate component of equity in the balance sheet and clearly identify on the face of the income statement net income related to non-controlling interests. This statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. We are currently assessing the impact, if any, the adoption of this statement will have on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141(R), Business Combinations. This statement requires assets acquired and liabilities assumed to be measured at fair value as of the acquisition date, acquisition-related costs incurred prior to the acquisition to be expensed and contractual contingencies to be recognized at fair value as of the acquisition date. This statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. We are currently assessing the impact, if any, the adoption of this statement will have on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133. This Statement changes the disclosure requirements for derivative instruments and hedging activities. The Statement requires that objectives for using derivative instruments be disclosed in terms of underlying risk and accounting designation. This statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008. We are currently assessing the impact that adoption of this statement will have on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

The FASB has announced that it plans to issue proposed staff guidance on accounting for convertible debt instruments that may be settled in cash upon conversion, including partial cash settlements. This accounting could increase the amount of interest expense required to be recognized with respect to such instruments and, thus, lower reported net income and net income per share of issuers of such instruments. Issuers would have to account for the liability and equity components of the instrument separately and in a manner that reflects interest expense at the interest rate of similar nonconvertible debt. We have two debt series that would be affected by the guidance, our 2.75% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes due 2035 and our 2.5% Contingent Convertible Senior Notes due 2037. If the FASB adopts the guidance, companies would have to apply the guidance retrospectively to both existing and new instruments that fall within the scope of the guidance.

Forward-Looking Statements

This report includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements give our current expectations or forecasts of future events. They include statements regarding natural gas and oil reserve estimates, planned capital expenditures, the drilling of natural gas and oil wells and future acquisitions, expected natural gas and oil production, cash flow and anticipated liquidity, business strategy and other plans and objectives for future operations and expected future expenses. Statements concerning the fair values of derivative contracts and their estimated contribution to our future results of operations are based upon market information as of a specific date. These market prices are subject to significant volatility.

Although we believe the expectations and forecasts reflected in these and other forward-looking statements are reasonable, we can give no assurance they will prove to have been correct. They can be affected by inaccurate assumptions or by known or unknown risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from expected results are described under “Risk Factors” in Item 1A of our 2007 Form 10-K and include:

 

   

the volatility of natural gas and oil prices,

 

   

the availability of capital on an economic basis to fund our drilling program,

 

   

our ability to replace reserves and sustain production,

 

   

our level of indebtedness,

 

   

the strength and financial resources of our competitors,

 

   

uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of natural gas and oil reserves and projecting future rates of production and the timing of development expenditures,

 

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uncertainties in evaluating natural gas and oil reserves of acquired properties and associated potential liabilities,

 

   

unsuccessful exploration and development drilling,

 

   

declines in the value of our natural gas and oil properties resulting in ceiling test write-downs,

 

   

lower prices realized on natural gas and oil sales and collateral required to secure hedging liabilities resulting from our commodity price risk management activities,

 

   

lower natural gas and oil prices negatively affecting our ability to borrow,

 

   

drilling and operating risks,

 

   

adverse effects of governmental regulation, and

 

   

losses possible from pending or future litigation.

We caution you not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this report, and we undertake no obligation to update this information. We urge you to carefully review and consider the disclosures made in this report and our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission that attempt to advise interested parties of the risks and factors that may affect our business.

 

ITEM 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

Natural Gas and Oil Hedging Activities

Our results of operations and operating cash flows are impacted by changes in market prices for natural gas and oil. To mitigate a portion of the exposure to adverse market changes, we have entered into various derivative instruments. As of March 31, 2008, our natural gas and oil derivative instruments were comprised of swaps, basis protection swaps, knockout swaps, cap-swaps, call options and collars. These instruments allow us to predict with greater certainty the effective natural gas and oil prices to be received for our hedged production. Although derivatives often fail to achieve 100% effectiveness for accounting purposes, we believe our derivative instruments continue to be highly effective in achieving the risk management objectives for which they were intended.

 

   

For swap instruments, Chesapeake receives a fixed price for the hedged commodity and pays a floating market price to the counterparty. The fixed-price payment and the floating-price payment are netted, resulting in a net amount due to or from the counterparty.

 

   

Basis protection swaps are arrangements that guarantee a price differential for natural gas or oil from a specified delivery point. For Mid-Continent basis protection swaps, which typically have negative differentials to NYMEX, Chesapeake receives a payment from the counterparty if the price differential is greater than the stated terms of the contract and pays the counterparty if the price differential is less than the stated terms of the contract. For Appalachian Basin basis protection swaps, which typically have positive differentials to NYMEX, Chesapeake receives a payment from the counterparty if the price differential is less than the stated terms of the contract and pays the counterparty if the price differential is greater than the stated terms of the contract.

 

   

For knockout swaps, Chesapeake receives a fixed price and pays a floating market price. The fixed price received by Chesapeake includes a premium in exchange for the possibility to reduce the counterparty’s exposure to zero, in any given month, if the floating market price is lower than certain pre-determined knockout prices.

 

   

For cap-swaps, Chesapeake receives a fixed price and pays a floating market price. The fixed price received by Chesapeake includes a premium in exchange for a “cap” limiting the counterparty’s exposure. In other words, there is no limit to Chesapeake’s exposure but there is a limit to the downside exposure of the counterparty.

 

   

For call options, Chesapeake receives a premium from the counterparty in exchange for the sale of a call option. If the market price exceeds the fixed price of the call option, Chesapeake pays the counterparty such excess. If the market price settles below the fixed price of the call option, no payment is due from Chesapeake.

 

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Collars contain a fixed floor price (put) and ceiling price (call). If the market price exceeds the call strike price or falls below the put strike price, Chesapeake receives the fixed price and pays the market price. If the market price is between the call and the put strike price, no payments are due from either party.

Chesapeake enters into counter-swaps from time to time for the purpose of locking-in the value of a swap. Under the counter-swap, Chesapeake receives a floating price for the hedged commodity and pays a fixed price to the counterparty. The counter-swap is 100% effective in locking-in the value of a swap since subsequent changes in the market value of the swap are entirely offset by subsequent changes in the market value of the counter-swap. We refer to this locked-in value as a locked swap. Generally, at the time Chesapeake enters into a counter-swap, Chesapeake removes the original swap’s designation as a cash flow hedge and classifies the original swap as a non-qualifying hedge under SFAS 133. The reason for this new designation is that collectively the swap and the counter-swap no longer hedge the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows. Instead, the swap and counter-swap effectively lock-in a specific gain (or loss) that will be unaffected by subsequent variability in natural gas and oil prices. Any locked-in gain or loss is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income and reclassified to natural gas and oil sales in the month of related production.

In accordance with FASB Interpretation No. 39, to the extent that a legal right of set-off exists, Chesapeake nets the value of its derivative arrangements with the same counterparty in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Gains or losses from certain derivative transactions are reflected as adjustments to natural gas and oil sales on the consolidated statements of operations. Realized gains (losses) are included in natural gas and oil sales in the month of related production. Pursuant to SFAS 133, certain derivatives do not qualify for designation as cash flow hedges. Changes in the fair value of these non-qualifying derivatives that occur prior to their maturity (i.e., temporary fluctuations in value) are reported currently in the condensed consolidated statements of operations as unrealized gains (losses) within natural gas and oil sales. Following provisions of SFAS 133, changes in the fair value of derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges, to the extent they are effective in offsetting cash flows attributable to the hedged risk, are recorded in other comprehensive income until the hedged item is recognized in earnings. Any change in fair value resulting from ineffectiveness is currently recognized in natural gas and oil sales as unrealized gains (losses). The components of natural gas and oil sales for the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter are presented below.

 

     Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
     2008     2007  
     ($ in millions)  

Natural gas and oil sales

   $ 1,691     $ 1,001  

Realized gains (losses) on natural gas and oil derivatives

     214       433  

Unrealized gains (losses) on non-qualifying natural gas and oil derivatives

     (1,067 )     (255 )

Unrealized gains (losses) on ineffectiveness of cash flow hedges

     (65 )     (54 )
                

Total natural gas and oil sales

   $ 773     $ 1,125  
                

 

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As of March 31, 2008, we had the following open natural gas and oil derivative instruments (excluding derivatives assumed through our acquisition of CNR in November 2005) designed to hedge a portion of our natural gas and oil production for periods after March 2008:

 

     Volume    Weighted
Average
Fixed
Price to be
Received
(Paid)
   Weighted
Average
Put
Fixed
Price
   Weighted
Average
Call
Fixed
Price
   Weighted
Average
Differential
    SFAS 133
Hedge
   Net
Premiums
($ in
millions)
   Fair
Value at
March 31,
2008

($ in millions)
 

Natural Gas (bbtu):

                      

Swaps:

                      

2Q 2008

   67,455    $ 8.18    $    $    $     Yes    $    $ (123 )

3Q 2008

   71,763      8.43                    Yes           (133 )

4Q 2008

   64,102      9.03                    Yes           (108 )

1Q 2009

   27,699      9.84                    Yes           (33 )

Q2 – Q4 2009

   80,439      8.58                    Yes           (56 )

2010

   21,974      8.66                    Yes           (13 )

2011 – 2020

   100,455      8.06                    Yes           (78 )

Basis Protection Swaps

                      

(Mid-Continent):

                      

2Q 2008

   29,655                     (0.33 )   No           27  

3Q 2008

   40,440                     (0.52 )   No           25  

4Q 2008

   40,010                     (0.48 )   No           38  

Q1 2009

   34,530                     (0.51 )   No           23  

Q2 – Q4 2009

   71,240                     (0.39 )   No           46  

2010

   13,000                     (1.03 )   No            

2011 – 2018

   76,180                     (0.93 )   No           (16 )

Basis Protection Swaps

                      

(Appalachian Basin):

                      

2Q 2008

   5,783                     0.33     No           (1 )

3Q 2008

   5,763                     0.33     No            

4Q 2008

   5,840                     0.33     No            

Q1 2009

   3,849                     0.29     No           (1 )

Q2 – Q4 2009

   13,064                     0.28     No           (2 )

2010

   10,199                     0.26     No           (1 )

2011

   12,086                     0.25     No           (1 )

2012 – 2022

   134                     0.11     No            

Other Swaps:

                      

2Q 2008

   6,050      8.47                    No           (8 )

3Q 2008

   4,600      8.73                    No           (7 )

4Q 2008

   4,600      8.73                    No           (9 )

Q1 2009(a)

   22,750      8.73                    No           (33 )

2010(a)

   18,250      8.73                    No           (19 )

Knockout Swaps:

                      

2Q 2008

   60,380      9.15      6.21               No           (49 )

3Q 2008

   62,560      9.32      6.21               No           (63 )

4Q 2008

   63,810      9.98      6.23               No           (57 )

Q1 2009

   71,100      10.15      6.23               No           (92 )

Q2 – Q4 2009

   209,000      9.12      6.09               No           (156 )

2010

   109,500      9.51      6.13               No           (45 )

Call Options:

                      

2Q 2008

   27,050                10.12          No      21      (15 )

3Q 2008

   32,200                10.25          No      21      (33 )

4Q 2008

   43,760                10.06          No      21      (61 )

Q1 2009

   51,300                11.19          No      32      (77 )

Q2 – Q4 2009

   146,670                11.21          No      90      (107 )

2010

   156,950                10.68          No      94      (143 )

2011

   83,950                10.27          No      53      (68 )

2012

   14,640                11.50          No      7      (11 )

Collars:

                      

2Q 2008

   2,730           7.50      9.68          Yes           (2 )

3Q 2008

   2,760           7.50      9.68          Yes           (3 )

4Q 2008

   2,760           7.50      9.68          Yes           (5 )

 

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     Volume    Weighted
Average
Fixed
Price to be
Received
(Paid)
   Weighted
Average

Put
Fixed
Price
   Weighted
Average
Call
Fixed
Price
   Weighted
Average
Differential
   SFAS 133
Hedge
   Net
Premiums
($ in
millions)
    Fair
Value at
March 31,
2008

($ in millions)
 

Other Collars:

                      

2Q 2008

   8,190    $    $ 8.53    $ 10.00    $    No    $ 5     $ (3 )

3Q 2008

   8,280           8.53      10.00         No      5       (7 )

4Q 2008

   6,450           8.50      10.00         No      5       (8 )

Q1 2009

   11,250           5.70/8.14      10.82         No      (4 )     (17 )

Q2 – Q4 2009

   34,375           5.70/8.14      10.82         No      (11 )     (6 )
                                  

Total Natural Gas

                       339       (1,511 )
                                  

Oil (mbbls):

                      

Swaps:

                      

2Q 2008

   865      71.29                   Yes            (32 )

3Q 2008

   935      72.17                   Yes            (31 )

4Q 2008

   598      64.60                   Yes            (19 )

Q1 2009

   135      68.02                   Yes            (4 )

Q2 – Q4 2009

   412      67.77                   Yes            (11 )

Knockout Swaps:

                      

2Q 2008

   758      80.22      56.58              No            (15 )

3Q 2008

   828      81.64      56.83              No            (15 )

4Q 2008

   1,012      81.50      57.41              No            (17 )

Q1 2009

   1,935      83.41      57.74              No            (29 )

Q2 – Q4 2009

   5,913      85.54      58.21              No            (89 )

2010

   4,015      87.34      60.00              No            (50 )

2011

   365      98.25      60.00              No            (2 )

Cap-Swaps:

                      

2Q 2008

   273      77.60      55.00              No            (6 )

3Q 2008

   276      77.60      55.00              No            (6 )

4Q 2008

   276      77.60      55.00              No            (6 )

Call Options:

                      

2Q 2008

   637                83.57         No      2       (11 )

3Q 2008

   644                83.57         No      2       (11 )

4Q 2008

   828                81.67         No      3       (16 )

Q1 2009

   630                82.14         No      3       (13 )

Q2 – Q4 2009

   1,925                82.14         No      9       (40 )

2010

   2,555                96.43         No      10       (43 )

Other Collars:

                      

2010

   730           90.00/80.00      136.40         No             
                                  

Total Oil

                       29       (466 )
                                  

Total Natural Gas and Oil

                     $ 368     $ (1,977 )
                                  

 

(a)

These include options to extend an existing swap for an additional 12 months at 50,000 mmbtu/day at $8.73/mmbtu. The options are callable by the counterparty in March 2009 and March 2010.

Since 2006, Chesapeake has lifted a portion of its 2008 through 2022 hedges and had approximately $52 million of deferred hedging gains as of March 31, 2008. These gains have been recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income or as an unrealized gain in natural gas and oil sales. For amounts originally recorded in other comprehensive income, the gain will be recognized in natural gas and oil sales in the month of the hedged production.

We assumed certain liabilities related to open derivative positions in connection with our acquisition of Columbia Natural Resources, LLC in November 2005. In accordance with SFAS 141, these derivative positions were recorded at fair value in the purchase price allocation as a liability of $592 million. The recognition of the derivative liability and other assumed liabilities resulted in an increase in the total purchase price which was allocated to the assets acquired. Because of this accounting treatment, only cash settlements for changes in fair

 

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value subsequent to the acquisition date for the derivative positions assumed result in adjustments to our natural gas and oil revenues upon settlement. For example, if the fair value of the derivative positions assumed does not change, then upon the sale of the underlying production and corresponding settlement of the derivative positions, cash would be paid to the counterparties and there would be no adjustment to natural gas and oil revenues related to the derivative positions. If, however, the actual sales price is different from the price assumed in the original fair value calculation, the difference would be reflected as either a decrease or increase in natural gas and oil revenues, depending upon whether the sales price was higher or lower, respectively, than the prices assumed in the original fair value calculation. For accounting purposes, the net effect of these acquired hedges is that we hedged the production volumes at market prices on the date of our acquisition of CNR.

Pursuant to Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 149, Amendment of SFAS 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, the derivative instruments assumed in connection with the CNR acquisition are deemed to contain a significant financing element and all cash flows associated with these positions are reported as financing activity in the statement of cash flows for the periods in which settlement occurs.

The following details the assumed CNR derivatives remaining as of March 31, 2008:

 

     Volume    Weighted
Average
Fixed
Price to be
Received
(Paid)
   Weighted
Average
Put
Fixed
Price
   Weighted
Average
Call
Fixed
Price
   SFAS 133
Hedge
   Fair
Value at
March 31,
2008

($ in millions)
 

Natural Gas (bbtu):

                 

Swaps:

                 

2Q 2008

   9,555    $ 4.68    $    $    Yes    $ (50 )

3Q 2008

   9,660      4.68              Yes      (54 )

4Q 2008

   9,660      4.66              Yes      (57 )

Q1 2009

   4,500      5.18              Yes      (26 )

Q2 – Q4 2009

   13,750      5.18              Yes      (55 )

Collars:

                 

Q1 2009

   900           4.50      6.00    Yes      (4 )

Q2 – Q4 2009

   2,750           4.50      6.00    Yes      (9 )
                       

Total Natural Gas

                  $ (255 )
                       

We have established the fair value of all derivative instruments using estimates of fair value reported by our counterparties and subsequently evaluated internally using established index prices and other sources. The actual contribution to our future results of operations will be based on the market prices at the time of settlement and may be more or less than the fair value estimates used at March 31, 2008.

Based upon the market prices at March 31, 2008, we expect to transfer approximately $311 million (net of income taxes) of the loss included in the balance in accumulated other comprehensive income to earnings during the next 12 months in the related month of production. All transactions hedged as of March 31, 2008 are expected to mature by December 31, 2022.

Additional information concerning the fair value of our natural gas and oil derivative instruments, including CNR derivatives assumed, is as follows:

 

     2008  
     ($ in millions)  

Fair value of contracts outstanding, as of January 1

   $ (369 )

Change in fair value of contracts

     (1,548 )

Fair value of contracts when entered into

     (109 )

Contracts realized or otherwise settled

     (214 )

Fair value of contracts when closed

     8  
        

Fair value of contracts outstanding, as of March 31

   $ (2,232 )
        

The change in the fair value of our derivative instruments since January 1, 2008 resulted from new contracts entered into, the settlement of derivatives for a realized gain, as well as an increase in natural gas prices. Derivative instruments reflected as current in the consolidated balance sheet represent the estimated fair value of derivative instrument settlements scheduled to occur over the subsequent twelve-month period based on market prices for natural gas and oil as of the consolidated balance sheet date. The derivative settlement amounts are not due and payable until the month in which the related underlying hedged transaction occurs.

 

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Interest Rate Risk

The table below presents principal cash flows and related weighted average interest rates by expected maturity dates. As of March 31, 2008, the fair value of the fixed-rate long-term debt has been estimated based on quoted market prices.

 

     Years of Maturity  
     2008    2009    2010    2011    2012     Thereafter     Total  
     ($ in billions)  

Liabilities:

                  

Long-term debt – fixed-rate(a)

   $    $    $    $    $     $ 9.122     $ 9.122  

Average interest rate

                               5.8 %     5.8 %

Long-term debt – variable rate

   $    $    $    $    $ 3.164     $     $ 3.164  

Average interest rate

                         3.7 %           3.7 %

 

(a)

This amount does not include the discount included in long-term debt of ($102) million and the impact of interest rate derivatives of $66 million.

Changes in interest rates affect the amount of interest we earn on our cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments and the interest rate we pay on borrowings under our revolving bank credit facility. All of our other long-term indebtedness is fixed rate and, therefore, does not expose us to the risk of earnings or cash flow loss due to changes in market interest rates. However, changes in interest rates do affect the fair value of our debt.

Interest Rate Derivatives

We use interest rate derivatives to mitigate our exposure to the volatility in interest rates. For interest rate derivative instruments designated as fair value hedges (in accordance with SFAS 133), changes in fair value are recorded on the condensed consolidated balance sheets as assets (liabilities), and the debt’s carrying value amount is adjusted by the change in the fair value of the debt subsequent to the initiation of the derivative. Changes in the fair value of non-qualifying derivatives that occur prior to their maturity (i.e., temporary fluctuations in value) are reported currently in the condensed consolidated statements of operations as unrealized gains (losses) within interest expense.

Gains or losses from certain derivative transactions are reflected as adjustments to interest expense on the condensed consolidated statements of operations. Realized gains (losses) included in interest expense were a nominal amount and ($2) million in the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter. Unrealized gains (losses) included in interest expense were ($13) million and ($1) million in the Current Quarter and the Prior Quarter.

As of March 31, 2008, the following interest rate derivatives were outstanding:

 

     Notional
Amount
($ in millions)
   Weighted
Average
Fixed
Rate
   

Weighted

Average

Floating

Rate

   Weighted
Average
Cap/Floor

Rate
   Fair
Value
Hedge
   Net
Premiums
($ in millions)
   Fair
Value
($ in millions)
 

Fixed to Floating Swaps:

                   

January 2008 – November 2020

   $ 800    7.195 %   6 month LIBOR plus 328 basis points       Yes    $    $ (8 )

January 2008 – January 2018

   $ 250    6.25 %   6 month LIBOR plus 190 basis points       No           5  

Floating to Fixed Swaps:

                   

August 2007 – August 2010

   $ 825    4.737 %   3 month LIBOR       No           (32 )

Call Options:

                   

January 2008 – July 2010

   $ 500    6.563 %         No      5      (11 )

Collars:

                   

August 2007 – August 2010

   $ 800           5.37% – 4.52%    No           (34 )
                             
                 $ 5    $ (80 )
                             

In the Current Quarter, we sold call options on two of our interest rate swaps and received $5 million in premiums. Three options were exercised in the Current Quarter resulting in the termination of three interest rate swaps.

 

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Table of Contents

In the Current Quarter, we closed 17 interest rate swaps for a gain totaling $48 million. These interest rate swaps were designated as fair value hedges, and the settlement amounts received will be amortized as a reduction to realized interest expense over the remaining term of the related senior notes.

Foreign Currency Derivatives

On December 6, 2006, we issued €600 million of 6.25% Euro-denominated Senior Notes due 2017. Concurrent with the issuance of the Euro-denominated senior notes, we entered into a cross currency swap to mitigate our exposure to fluctuations in the euro relative to the dollar over the term of the notes. Under the terms of the cross currency swap, on each semi-annual interest payment date, the counterparties pay Chesapeake €19 million and Chesapeake pays the counterparties $30 million, which yields an annual dollar-equivalent interest rate of 7.491%. Upon maturity of the notes, the counterparties will pay Chesapeake €600 million and Chesapeake will pay the counterparties $800 million. The terms of the cross currency swap were based on the dollar/euro exchange rate on the issuance date of $1.3325 to €1.00. Through the cross currency swap, we have eliminated any potential variability in Chesapeake’s expected cash flows related to changes in foreign exchange rates and therefore the swap qualifies as a cash flow hedge under SFAS 133. The euro-denominated debt is recorded in notes payable ($948 million at March 31, 2008) using an exchange rate of $1.5805 to €1.00. The fair value of the cross currency swap is recorded on the condensed consolidated balance sheet as an asset of $80 million at March 31, 2008.

 

ITEM 4. Controls and Procedures

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by Chesapeake in reports filed or submitted by it under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. At the end of the period covered by this report, we carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of Chesapeake management, including Chesapeake’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of Chesapeake’s disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Securities Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(b). Based upon that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective.

No changes in Chesapeake’s internal control over financial reporting occurred during the Current Quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, Chesapeake’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

40


Table of Contents

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

Chesapeake is currently involved in various disputes incidental to its business operations. Certain legal actions brought by royalty owners are discussed in Item 3 of our 2007 Form 10-K. Reference also is made to “Litigation” in Note 3 of the notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements included in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q, which is incorporated herein by reference. Management is of the opinion that the final resolution of currently pending or threatened litigation is not likely to have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

Item 1A. Risk Factors

Our business has many risks. Factors that could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, operating results or liquidity and the trading price of our common stock, preferred stock or senior notes are described under “Risk Factors” in Item 1A of our 2007 Form 10-K. This information should be considered carefully, together with other information in this report and other reports and materials we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

The following table presents information about repurchases of our common stock during the three months ended March 31, 2008:

 

Period

   Total Number
of Shares
Purchased(a)
   Average
Price Paid
Per Share(a)
   Total Number
Of Shares
Purchased

as Part of Publicly
Announced Plans
or Programs
   Maximum Number
of Shares That
May

Yet Be Purchased
Under the Plans
or Programs(b)

January 1, 2008 through January 31, 2008

   430,523    $ 40.260      

February 1, 2008 through February 29, 2008

   6,540      45.209      

March 1, 2008 through March 31, 2008

   11,965      45.781      
                     

Total

   449,028    $ 40.479      
                     

 

(a)

Includes the deemed surrender to the company of 3,749 shares of common stock to pay the exercise price in connection with the exercise of employee stock options and the surrender to the company of 445,279 shares of common stock to pay withholding taxes in connection with the vesting of employee restricted stock.

(b)

We make matching contributions to our 401(k) plan and 401(k) make-up plan using Chesapeake common stock which is held in treasury or is purchased by the respective plan trustees in the open market. The plans contain no limitation on the number of shares that may be purchased for purposes of company contributions.

 

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Not applicable.

 

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

Not applicable.

 

Item 5. Other Information

Not applicable.

 

41


Table of Contents
Item 6. Exhibits

The following exhibits are filed as a part of this report:

 

         Incorporated by Reference    Filed
Herewith

Exhibit
Number

 

Exhibit Description

   Form    SEC File
Number
   Exhibit    Filing Date   

3.1.1

 

Chesapeake’s Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended.

   10-Q    001-13726    3.1.1    08/09/2006   

3.1.2

 

Certificate of Designation for Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, as amended.

   10-Q    001-13726    3.1.2    08/09/2006   

3.1.3

 

Certificate of Designation of 4.125% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock, as amended.

   10-Q    001-13726    3.1.3    05/08/2007   

3.1.4

 

Certificate of Designation of 5% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock (Series 2005B) as amended.

               X

3.1.5

 

Certificate of Designation of 5% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock (Series 2005), as amended.

   10-K    001-13726    3.1.5    02/29/2008   

3.1.6

 

Certificate of Designation of 4.5% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock.

   8-K    001-13726      3.1    09/15/2005   

3.1.7

 

Certificate of Designation of 6.25% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock, as amended.

   10-K    001-13726    3.1.7    02/29/2008   

3.2

 

Chesapeake’s Amended and Restated Bylaws.

   8-K    001-13726      3.1    06/13/2007   

12

 

Ratios of Earnings to Fixed Charges and Preferred Dividends.

               X

31.1

 

Aubrey K. McClendon, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

               X

31.2

 

Marcus C. Rowland, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

               X

32.1

 

Aubrey K. McClendon, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

               X

32.2

 

Marcus C. Rowland, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

               X

 

42


Table of Contents

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION

(Registrant)

By:

 

/s/ AUBREY K. MCCLENDON

  Aubrey K. McClendon
  Chairman of the Board and
  Chief Executive Officer

By:

 

/s/ MARCUS C. ROWLAND

  Marcus C. Rowland
  Executive Vice President and
  Chief Financial Officer

Date: May 12, 2008

 

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Table of Contents

INDEX TO EXHIBITS

 

Exhibit
Number

 

Exhibit Description

   Incorporated by Reference    Filed
Herewith
     Form    SEC File
Number
   Exhibit    Filing Date   

3.1.1

 

Chesapeake’s Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended.

   10-Q    001-13726    3.1.1    08/09/2006   

3.1.2

 

Certificate of Designation for Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, as amended.

   10-Q    001-13726    3.1.2    08/09/2006   

3.1.3

 

Certificate of Designation of 4.125% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock, as amended.

   10-Q    001-13726    3.1.3    05/08/2007   

3.1.4

 

Certificate of Designation of 5% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock (Series 2005B) as amended.

               X

3.1.5

 

Certificate of Designation of 5% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock (Series 2005), as amended.

   10-K    001-13726    3.1.5    02/29/2008   

3.1.6

 

Certificate of Designation of 4.5% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock.

   8-K    001-13726      3.1    09/15/2005   

3.1.7

 

Certificate of Designation of 6.25% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock, as amended.

   10-K    001-13726    3.1.7    02/29/2008   

3.2

 

Chesapeake’s Amended and Restated Bylaws.

   8-K    001-13726      3.1    06/13/2007   

12

 

Ratios of Earnings to Fixed Charges and Preferred Dividends.

               X

31.1

 

Aubrey K. McClendon, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

               X

31.2

 

Marcus C. Rowland, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

               X

32.1

 

Aubrey K. McClendon, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

               X

32.2

 

Marcus C. Rowland, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

               X

 

44

EX-3.1.4 2 dex314.htm CERTIFICATE OF DESIGNATION OF 5% CUMULATIVE CONVERTIBLE PREFERRED STOCK Certificate of Designation of 5% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock

Exhibit 3.1.4

CERTIFICATE OF DESIGNATION

OF

5.00% CUMULATIVE CONVERTIBLE PREFERRED STOCK (SERIES 2005B)

OF

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION

Pursuant to Section 1032(G) of the Oklahoma General Corporation Act

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION, an Oklahoma corporation (the “Company”), does hereby certify that the following resolution was duly adopted by action of the Board of Directors of the Company, with the provisions thereof fixing the number of shares of the series and the dividend rate being set by action of the Board of Directors of the Company:

RESOLVED that pursuant to the authority expressly granted to and vested in the Board of Directors of the Company by the provisions of Article IV, Section 1 of the Certificate of Incorporation of the Company, as amended from time to time (the “Certificate of Incorporation”), and pursuant to Section 1032(G) of the Oklahoma General Corporation Act, the Board of Directors hereby creates a series of preferred stock of the Company and hereby states that the voting powers, designations, preferences and relative, participating, optional or other special rights of which, and qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof (in addition to the provisions set forth in the Certificate of Incorporation which are applicable to the preferred stock of all classes and series), shall be as follows:

1. Designation and Amount; Ranking

(a) There shall be created from the 20,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the Company authorized to be issued pursuant to the Certificate of Incorporation, a series of preferred stock, designated as the “5.00% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock (Series 2005B),” par value $0.01 per share (the “Preferred Stock”), and the number of shares of such series shall be 5,750,000. Such number of shares may be decreased by resolution of the Board of Directors; provided that no decrease shall reduce the number of shares of Preferred Stock to a number less than that of the shares of Preferred Stock then outstanding plus the number of shares issuable upon exercise of options or rights then outstanding.

(b) The Preferred Stock will, with respect to both dividend rights and rights upon the liquidation, winding-up or dissolution of the Company, rank on a parity with the 6.00% Preferred Stock, the 5.00% Preferred Stock (Series 2003), the 4.125% Preferred Stock, the 5.00% Preferred Stock (Series 2005) and the 4.50% Preferred Stock and the Preferred Stock will, with respect to dividend rights or rights upon the liquidation, winding-up or dissolution of the Company rank (i) senior to all Junior Stock, (ii) on a parity with all other Parity Stock and (iii) junior to all Senior Stock.

2. Definitions. As used herein, the following terms shall have the following meanings:

(a) “4.125% Preferred Stock” shall mean the series of preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the Company designated as the “4.125% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock.”


(b) “4.50% Preferred Stock” shall mean the series of preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the Company designated as the “4.50% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock.”

(c) “5.00% Preferred Stock (Series 2003)” shall mean the series of preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the Company designated as the “5.00% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock.”

(d) “5.00% Preferred Stock (Series 2005)” shall mean the series of preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the Company designated as the “5.00% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock (Series 2005).”

(e) “6.00% Preferred Stock” shall mean the series of preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the Company designated as the “6.00% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock.”

(f) “Accrued Dividends” shall mean, with respect to any share of Preferred Stock, as of any date, the accrued and unpaid dividends on such share from and including the most recent Dividend Payment Date (or the Issue Date, if such date is prior to the first Dividend Payment Date) to but not including such date.

(g) “Accumulated Dividends” shall mean, with respect to any share of Preferred Stock, as of any date, the aggregate accumulated and unpaid dividends on such share from the Issue Date until the most recent Dividend Payment Date on or prior to such date. There shall be no Accumulated Dividends with respect to any share of Preferred Stock prior to the first Dividend Payment Date.

(h) “Affiliate” shall have the meaning ascribed to it, on the date hereof, under Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

(i) “Board of Directors” shall mean the Board of Directors of the Company or, with respect to any action to be taken by the Board of Directors, any committee of the Board of Directors duly authorized to take such action.

(j) “Business Day” shall mean any day other than a Saturday, Sunday or other day on which commercial banks in The City of New York are authorized or required by law or executive order to close.

(k) “Closing Sale Price” of the Common Stock on any date means the closing sale price per share (or if no closing sale price is reported, the average of the closing bid and ask prices or, if more than one in either case, the average of the average closing bid and the average closing ask prices) on such date as reported on the principal United States securities exchange on which the Common Stock is traded or, if the Common Stock is not listed on a United States national or regional securities exchange, as reported by Nasdaq or by the National Quotation Bureau Incorporated. In the absence of such a quotation, the Closing Sale Price will be an amount determined in good faith by the Board of Directors to be the fair value of the Common Stock.

 

2


(l) “Common Stock” shall mean the common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the Company, or any other class of stock resulting from successive changes or reclassifications of such common stock consisting solely of changes in par value, or from par value to no par value, or as a result of a subdivision, combination, merger, consolidation or similar transaction in which the Company is a constituent corporation.

(m) “Conversion Price” shall mean $39.07, subject to adjustment as set forth in Section 7(d).

(n) “DTC” or “Depository” shall mean The Depository Trust Company.

(o) “Dividend Payment Date” shall mean February 15, May 15, August 15 and November 15 of each year, commencing February 15, 2006.

(p) “Dividend Record Date” shall mean February 1, May 1, August 1 and November 1 of each year.

(q) “Effective Date” shall mean the date on which a Fundamental Change event occurs.

(r) “Exchange Act” shall mean the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

(s) “Fundamental Change” shall mean any of the following events: (i) the sale, lease or transfer, in one or a series of related transactions, of all or substantially all of the Company’s assets (determined on a consolidated basis) to any Person or group (as such term is used in Section 13(d)(3) of the Exchange Act), other than to Permitted Holders; (ii) the adoption of a plan the consummation of which would result in the liquidation or dissolution of the Company; (iii) the acquisition, directly or indirectly, by any Person or group (as such term is used in Section 13(d)(3) of the Exchange Act) other than Permitted Holders of beneficial ownership (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act) of more than 50% of the aggregate voting power of the Voting Stock of the Company; provided, however, that the Permitted Holders beneficially own (as defined in Rules 13d-3 and 13d-5 under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, in the aggregate a lesser percentage of the total voting power of the Voting Stock of the Company than such other Person or group and do not have the right or ability by voting power, contract or otherwise to elect or designate for election a majority of the Board of Directors (for the purposes of this definition, such other Person or group shall be deemed to beneficially own any Voting Stock of a specified corporation held by a parent corporation, if such other Person or group is the beneficial owner (as defined above), directly or indirectly, of more than 35% of the voting power of the Voting Stock of such parent corporation and the Permitted Holders beneficially own (as defined in this proviso), directly or indirectly, in the aggregate a lesser percentage of the voting power of the Voting Stock of such parent corporation and do not have the right or ability by voting power, contract or otherwise to elect or designate for election a majority of the Board of Directors of such parent corporation; (iv) during any period of two consecutive years, individuals who at the beginning of such period comprised the Board of Directors of the Company (together with any new directors whose election by such Board of Directors or whose nomination for election by the shareholders of the Company was

 

3


approved by a vote of 66  2/3% of the directors of the Company then still in office who were either directors at the beginning of such period or whose election or nomination for election was previously so approved) cease for any reason to constitute a majority of the Board of Directors of the Company then in office; or (v) the Common Stock ceases to be listed on a national securities exchange or quoted on Nasdaq or another over-the-counter market in the United States; provided, however, that a Fundamental Change will not be deemed to have occurred in the case of a merger or consolidation, if (i) at least 90% of the consideration (excluding cash payments for fractional shares and cash payments pursuant to dissenters’ appraisal rights) in the merger or consolidation consists of common stock of a United States company traded on a national securities exchange or quoted on Nasdaq (or which will be so traded or quoted when issued or exchanged in connection with such transaction) and (ii) as a result of such transaction or transactions the shares of Preferred Stock become convertible solely into such common stock.

(t) “Holder” or “holder” shall mean a holder of record of the Preferred Stock.

(u) “Issue Date” shall mean November 8, 2005, the original date of issuance of the Preferred Stock.

(v) “Junior Stock” shall mean all classes of common stock of the Company and the Series A Junior Participating Convertible Preferred Stock and each other class of capital stock or series of preferred stock established after the Issue Date, by the Board of Directors, the terms of which do not expressly provide that such class or series ranks senior to or on parity with the Preferred Stock as to dividend rights or rights upon the liquidation, winding-up or dissolution of the Company.

(w) “Liquidation Preference” shall mean, with respect to each share of Preferred Stock, $100.00.

(x) “Make-Whole Premium” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 4A.

(y) “Market Value” shall mean the average Closing Sale Price of the Common Stock for a five consecutive Trading Day period on the NYSE (or such other national securities exchange or automated quotation system on which the Common Stock is then listed or authorized for quotation or, if the Common Stock is not so listed or authorized for quotation, an amount determined in good faith by the Board of Directors to be the fair value of the Common Stock) ending immediately prior to the date of determination.

(z) “NYSE” shall mean the New York Stock Exchange, Inc.

(aa) “Officer” shall mean the Chairman of the Board of Directors, the President, any Vice President, the Treasurer, the Secretary or any Assistant Secretary of the Company.

(bb) “Officers’ Certificate” shall mean a certificate signed by two Officers.

(cc) “Opinion of Counsel” shall mean a written opinion from legal counsel who is acceptable to the Transfer Agent. The counsel may be an employee of or counsel to the Company or the Transfer Agent.

 

4


(dd) “Parity Stock” shall mean 6.00% Preferred Stock, the 5.00% Preferred Stock (Series 2003), the 5.00% Preferred Stock (Series 2005), the 4.50% Preferred Stock, the 4.125% Preferred Stock and any class of capital stock or series of preferred stock established after the Issue Date by the Board of Directors, the terms of which expressly provide that such class or series will rank on parity with the Preferred Stock as to dividend rights or rights upon the liquidation, winding-up or dissolution of the Company.

(ee) “Permitted Holders” means Aubrey K. McClendon and Tom L. Ward and their respective Affiliates.

(ff) “Person” shall mean any individual, corporation, general partnership, limited partnership, limited liability partnership, joint venture, association, joint-stock company, trust, limited liability company, unincorporated organization or government or any agency or political subdivision thereof.

(gg) “Purchase Agreement” shall mean that certain Purchase Agreement with respect to the Preferred Stock, dated November 2, 2005, among the Company, Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., Banc of America Securities LLC, Credit Suisse First Boston LLC, Lehman Brothers Inc. and UBS Securities LLC and the other initial purchasers named therein.

(hh) “Registration Rights Agreement” means the Registration Rights Agreement to be dated November 8, 2005, among the Company, Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., Banc of America Securities LLC, Credit Suisse First Boston LLC, Lehman Brothers Inc. and UBS Securities LLC and the other initial purchasers named in the Purchase Agreement, with respect to the Preferred Stock.

(ii) “SEC” or “Commission” shall mean the Securities and Exchange Commission.

(jj) “Securities Act” shall mean the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

(kk) “Senior Stock” shall mean each class of capital stock or series of preferred stock established after the Issue Date by the Board of Directors, the terms of which expressly provide that such class or series will rank senior to the Preferred Stock as to dividend rights or rights upon the liquidation, winding-up or dissolution of the Company.

(ll) “Shelf Registration Statement” shall mean a shelf registration statement filed with the SEC to cover resales of Transfer Restricted Securities by holders thereof, as required by the Registration Rights Agreement.

(mm) “Trading Day” shall mean a day during which trading in securities generally occurs on the New York Stock Exchange or, if Common Stock is not listed on the New York Stock Exchange, on the principal other national or regional securities exchange on which Common Stock is then listed or, if Common Stock is not listed on a national or regional securities exchange, on Nasdaq or, if Common Stock is not quoted on Nasdaq, on the principal other market on which Common Stock is then traded.

 

5


(nn) “Transfer Agent” shall mean UMB Bank, N.A., the Company’s duly appointed transfer agent, registrar and conversion and dividend disbursing agent for the Preferred Stock. The Company may, in its sole discretion, remove the Transfer Agent with 10 days’ prior notice to the Transfer Agent; provided, that the Company shall appoint a successor Transfer Agent who shall accept such appointment prior to the effectiveness of such removal.

(oo) “Transfer Restricted Securities” shall mean each share of Preferred Stock (or the shares of Common Stock issued as a dividend on the Preferred Stock or into which such share of Preferred Stock is convertible) until (i) the date on which such security or its predecessor has been effectively registered under the Securities Act and disposed of in accordance with the Shelf Registration Statement or (ii) the date on which such security or predecessor is distributed to the public pursuant to Rule 144 under the Securities Act or is saleable pursuant to Rule 144(k) under the Securities Act.

(pp) “Voting Rights Triggering Event” shall mean the failure of the Company to pay dividends on the Preferred Stock with respect to six or more quarterly periods (whether or not consecutive).

(qq) “Voting Stock” shall mean, with respect to any Person, securities of any class or classes of Capital Stock in such Person entitling the holders thereof (whether at all times or only so long as no senior class of stock has voting power by reason of contingency) to vote in the election of members of the Board of Directors or other governing body of such Person. For purposes of this definition, “Capital Stock” shall mean, with respect to any Person, any and all shares, interests, participations or other equivalents (however designated) of corporate stock or partnership interests and any and all warrants, options and rights with respect thereto (whether or not currently exercisable), including each class of common stock and preferred stock of such Person.

3. Dividends.

(a) The holders of shares of the outstanding Preferred Stock shall be entitled, when, as and if declared by the Board of Directors out of funds of the Company legally available therefor, to receive cumulative dividends at the rate per annum of 5.00% per share on the Liquidation Preference (equivalent to $5.00 per annum per share), payable quarterly in arrears (the “Dividend Rate”). The Dividend Rate may be increased in the circumstances described in Section 3(b) below. Dividends payable for each full dividend period will be computed by dividing the Dividend Rate by four and shall be payable in arrears on each Dividend Payment Date (commencing February 15, 2006) for the quarterly period ending immediately prior to such Dividend Payment Date, to the holders of record of Preferred Stock at the close of business on the Dividend Record Date applicable to such Dividend Payment Date. Such dividends shall be cumulative from the most recent date as to which dividends shall have been paid or, if no dividends have been paid, from the Issue Date (whether or not in any dividend period or periods there shall be funds of the Company legally available for the payment of such dividends) and shall accrue on a day-to-day basis, whether or not earned or declared, from and after the Issue Date. Dividends payable for any partial dividend period, including the initial dividend period ending immediately prior to February 15, 2006, shall be computed on the basis of days elapsed over a 360-day year consisting of twelve 30-day months. Accumulations of dividends on shares of Preferred Stock shall not bear interest.

 

6


(b) If (i) by March 9, 2006, the Shelf Registration Statement has not been filed with the Commission, (ii) by July 7, 2006, the Shelf Registration Statement has not been declared effective by the Commission or (iii) after the Shelf Registration Statement has been declared effective, (A) the Shelf Registration Statement thereafter ceases to be effective or (B) the Shelf Registration Statement or the related prospectus ceases to be usable (in each case, subject to the exceptions described below) in connection with resales of Transfer Restricted Securities during the period that any Transfer Restricted Securities (other than Transfer Restricted Securities held or beneficially owned by affiliates of the Company) remain outstanding (each such event referred to in clauses (i), (ii) and (iii), a “Registration Default”), additional dividends shall accrue on the Preferred Stock at the rate of .50% per annum (resulting in a Dividend Rate of 5.50% per annum during the continuance of a Registration Default), from and including the date on which any such Registration Default shall occur to but excluding the date on which all Registration Defaults have been cured. At all other times, dividends shall accumulate on the Preferred Stock at the Dividend Rate as described in Section 3(a).

A Registration Default referred to in clause (iii) of Section 3(b) shall be deemed not to have occurred and be continuing in relation to the Shelf Registration Statement or the related prospectus if (i) such Registration Default has occurred solely as a result of (x) the filing of a post-effective amendment to the Shelf Registration Statement to incorporate annual audited financial information with respect to the Company where such post-effective amendment is not yet effective and needs to be declared effective to permit Holders to use the related prospectus or (y) other material events, with respect to the Company that would need to be described in the Shelf Registration Statement or the related prospectus and (ii) in the case of clause (y), the Company is proceeding promptly and in good faith to amend or supplement such Shelf Registration Statement and related prospectus to describe such events; provided, however, that in any case if such Registration Default referred to in clause (iii) of Section 3(b) occurs for a continuous period in excess of 30 days, additional dividends as described in Section 3(b) shall be payable in accordance therewith from the day such Registration Default occurs until such Registration Default is cured.

(c) No dividend will be declared or paid upon, or any sum set apart for the payment of dividends upon, any outstanding share of the Preferred Stock with respect to any dividend period unless all dividends for all preceding dividend periods have been declared and paid or declared and a sufficient sum or number of shares of common stock have been set apart for the payment of such dividend, upon all outstanding shares of Preferred Stock.

(d) No dividend on the Preferred Stock will be paid in cash at any time that the Adjusted Consolidated EBITDA Coverage Ratio (as defined as of the date hereof in the indenture among the Company, the Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined therein) and The Bank of New York Trust Company, N.A. dated as of June 20, 2005) is less than 2.00 to 1.00.

(e) No dividends or other distributions (other than a dividend or distribution payable solely in shares of Parity Stock or Junior Stock (in the case of Parity Stock) or Junior Stock (in the case of Junior Stock) and other than cash paid in lieu of fractional shares) may be

 

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declared, made or paid, or set apart for payment upon, any Parity Stock or Junior Stock, nor may any Parity Stock or Junior Stock be redeemed, purchased or otherwise acquired for any consideration (or any money paid to or made available for a sinking fund for the redemption of any Parity Stock or Junior Stock) by or on behalf of the Company (except by conversion into or exchange for shares of Parity Stock or Junior Stock (in the case of Parity Stock) or Junior Stock (in the case of Junior Stock)), unless full Accumulated Dividends shall have been or contemporaneously are declared and paid, or are declared and a sum or number of shares of common stock sufficient for the payment thereof is set apart for such payment, on the Preferred Stock and any Parity Stock for all dividend payment periods terminating on or prior to the date of such declaration, payment, redemption, purchase or acquisition. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if full dividends have not been paid on the Preferred Stock and any Parity Stock, dividends may be declared and paid on the Preferred Stock and such Parity Stock so long as the dividends are declared and paid pro rata so that the amounts of dividends declared per share on the Preferred Stock and such Parity Stock will in all cases bear to each other the same ratio that accumulated and unpaid dividends per share on the shares of Preferred Stock and such other Parity Stock bear to each other.

(f) Holders of shares of Preferred Stock shall not be entitled to any dividends on the Preferred Stock, whether payable in cash, property or stock, in excess of full cumulative dividends. No interest, or sum of money in lieu of interest, shall be payable in respect of any dividend payment or payments on the Preferred Stock which may be in arrears.

(g) The holders of shares of Preferred Stock at the close of business on a Dividend Record Date will be entitled to receive the dividend payment on those shares on the next following Dividend Payment Date notwithstanding the subsequent conversion thereof or the Company’s default in payment of the dividend due on that Dividend Payment Date. However, shares of Preferred Stock surrendered for conversion during the period between the close of business on any Dividend Record Date and the close of business on the Business Day immediately preceding the applicable Dividend Payment Date must be accompanied by payment of an amount or number of shares of Common Stock equal to the dividend payable on the shares on that Dividend Payment Date. A holder of shares of Preferred Stock on a Dividend Record Date who (or whose transferee) tenders any shares for conversion on the corresponding Dividend Payment Date will receive the dividend payable by the Company on the Preferred Stock on that date, and the converting holder need not include payment in the amount of such dividend upon surrender of shares of Preferred Stock for conversion. Except as provided above with respect to a voluntary conversion pursuant to Section 7, the Company shall make no payment or allowance for unpaid dividends, whether or not in arrears, on converted shares or for dividends on the shares of Common Stock issued upon conversion.

3A. Method of Payment of Dividends.

(a) Subject to the restrictions set forth herein, dividends on the Preferred Stock may be paid:

(i) in cash;

(ii) by delivery of shares of Common Stock; or

 

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(iii) through any combination of cash and Common Stock.

(b) Common Stock issued in payment or partial payment of a dividend shall be valued for such purpose at 97% of the Market Value as determined on the second Trading Day immediately prior to the Dividend Record Date for such dividend.

(c) Dividend payments on the Preferred Stock will be made in cash, except to the extent the Company elects to make all or any portion of such payment in Common Stock by giving notice to Holders of such election and the portion of such payment that will be made in cash and the portion of such payment that will be made in Common Stock, 10 Trading Days prior to the Dividend Record Date for such dividend.

(d) No fractional shares of Common Stock will be delivered to Holders in payment or partial payment of a dividend. A cash adjustment will be paid to each Holder that would otherwise be entitled to a fraction of a share of Common Stock. Any portion of any such payment that is declared and not paid through the delivery of Common Stock will be paid in cash.

(e) No payment or partial payment of a dividend on the Preferred Stock may be made by delivery of Common Stock unless (i) the Common Stock to be delivered as payment therefore is freely transferable by the recipient without further action on its behalf, other than by reason of the fact that such recipient is our affiliate, or (ii) a Shelf Registration Statement relating to that Common Stock has been filed with the SEC and is effective to permit the resale of that Common Stock by the holders thereof.

4. Fundamental Change.

(a) Upon the occurrence of a Fundamental Change, each holder of Preferred Stock shall:

(i) if it converts its Preferred Stock at any time beginning at the opening of business on the Trading Day immediately following the Effective Date and ending at the close of business on the 30th Trading Day immediately following the Effective Date, receive:

(A) Common Stock and cash in lieu of fractional shares, as described in Section 7; and

(B) the Make-Whole Premium, if any, and

(ii) in the event that the Market Value for the period ending on the Effective Date is less than the Conversion Price, have a one-time option (the “Fundamental Change Option”) to convert all of such Holder’s outstanding shares of Preferred Stock into fully paid and nonassessable shares of Common Stock at an adjusted Conversion Price equal to the greater of (x) the Market Value for the period ending on the Effective Date and (y) $20.03. The Fundamental Change Option must be exercised, if at all, during the period of not less than 30 days nor more than 60 days after the Fundamental Change Notice Date. In lieu of issuing the shares of Common Stock issuable upon conversion in the event of a Fundamental Change, the Company may, at its option, make a cash payment equal to the Market Value for each share of such Common Stock otherwise issuable, determined for the period ending on the Effective Date.

 

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(b) In the event of a Fundamental Change, notice of such Fundamental Change shall be given, within 10 Trading Days of the Effective Date, by the Company by first-class mail to each record holder of shares of Preferred Stock, at such holder’s address as the same appears on the books of the Company (such date of notice, the “Fundamental Change Notice Date”). Each such notice shall state (i) that a Fundamental Change has occurred; (ii) the last day on which the Make-Whole Premium can be received upon conversion and the last day on which the Fundamental Change Option may be exercised (each such date, an “Expiration Date”) pursuant to the terms hereof; (iii) the name and address of the Transfer Agent; and (iv) the procedures that holders must follow to exercise the Fundamental Change Option.

(c) On or before the applicable Expiration Date, each holder of shares of Preferred Stock wishing to exercise pursuant to Section 4(a) shall surrender the certificate or certificates representing the shares of Preferred Stock to be converted, in the manner and at the place designated in the notice described in Section 4(b), and on such date the cash or shares of Common Stock due to such holder shall be delivered to the Person whose name appears on such certificate or certificates as the owner thereof and the shares represented by each surrendered certificate shall be returned to authorized but unissued shares. Upon surrender (in accordance with the notice described in Section 4(b)) of the certificate or certificates representing any shares to be so converted (properly endorsed or assigned for transfer, if the Company shall so require and the notice shall so state), such shares shall be converted by the Company at the adjusted Conversion Price, if applicable, as described in Section 4(a).

(d) The rights of holders of Preferred Stock pursuant to this Section 4 are in addition to, and not in lieu of, the rights of holders of Preferred Stock provided for in Section 7 hereof and Section 4A.

4A. Determination of the Make-Whole Premium.

(a) If a Holder elects to convert Preferred Stock in connection with a transaction that is a Fundamental Change, the Company shall deliver to such Holder upon conversion, in addition to the shares of Common Stock and cash for fractional shares under Section 4 and Section 7, a make-whole premium (the “Make-Whole Premium”):

(i) equal to a percentage of the Liquidation Preference of the Preferred Stock converted determined by reference to the table in clause (d) below, based on the Effective Date and the price (the “Stock Price”) paid, or deemed to be paid, per share of our Common Stock in the transaction constituting the Fundamental Change, subject to adjustment as described below; and

(ii) in addition to, and not in substitution for, any cash, securities or other assets otherwise due to holders of Preferred Stock upon conversion.

(b) The Make-Whole Premium will be paid solely in shares of Common Stock (other than cash in lieu of fractional shares) or in the same form of consideration into which all or substantially all of the Common Stock has been converted or exchanged in connection with

 

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the Fundamental Change (other than cash paid in lieu of fractional interests in any security or pursuant to dissenters’ rights). The Company will pay cash in lieu of fractional interests in any security or other property delivered in connection with such Fundamental Change. The Make-Whole Premium will be payable on the 35th Trading Day following the Effective Date for Preferred Stock converted in connection with a Fundamental Change. If holders of Common Stock receive or have the right to receive more than one form of consideration in connection with such Fundamental Change, then, for purposes of the foregoing, the forms of consideration in which the Make-Whole Premium will be paid will be in proportion to the relative value, determined as described below, of the different forms of consideration paid to holders of Common Stock in connection with the Fundamental Change.

(c) The Stock Price paid, or deemed paid, per share of Common Stock in the transaction constituting the Fundamental Change will be calculated as follows:

(i) In the case of a Fundamental Change in which all or substantially all of the shares of Common Stock have been, as of the Effective Date, converted into or exchanged for the right to receive securities or other assets or property, the consideration shall be valued as follows:

(A) securities that are traded on a U.S. national securities exchange or approved for quotation on the Nasdaq or any similar system of automated dissemination of quotations of securities prices, will be valued at the average of the closing prices of such securities for the five consecutive Trading Days beginning on the second Trading Day after the Fundamental Change Notice Date,

(B) other securities, assets or property, other than cash, that holders will have the right to receive will be valued based on the average of the fair market value of the securities, assets or property, other than cash, as determined by two independent nationally recognized investment banks, and

(C) 100% of any cash.

(ii) In all other cases, the value of Common Stock will equal the average of the closing prices of Common Stock for the five consecutive Trading Days beginning on the second Trading Day after the Fundamental Change Notice Date.

The value of Common Stock or other consideration for purposes of determining the number of shares of Common Stock or other consideration to be issued in respect of the Make-Whole Premium will be calculated in the same manner, except that to the extent such value is calculated pursuant to clause (i)(A), (i)(B) or (ii), such value shall be multiplied by 97%.

(d) The following table sets forth the Stock Price paid, or deemed paid, per share of Common Stock in the transaction constituting the Fundamental Change, the Effective Date and Make-Whole Premium (expressed as a percentage of Liquidation Preference) upon a conversion in connection with a Fundamental Change:

 

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Value as % of Liquidation Preference

Effective Date

 

     11/8/2005     11/15/2006     11/15/2007     11/15/2008     11/15/2009     11/15/2010     Thereafter  
$ 30.05    0.0 %   0.0 %   0.0 %   0.0 %   0.0 %   0.0 %   0.0 %
$ 31.00    2.7 %   2.0 %   1.2 %   0.4 %   0.0 %   0.0 %   0.0 %
$ 32.00    4.7 %   3.7 %   2.8 %   2.2 %   1.8 %   1.7 %   1.7 %
$ 33.00    6.7 %   5.7 %   4.6 %   3.6 %   3.1 %   3.1 %   3.1 %
$ 34.00    8.5 %   7.5 %   6.5 %   5.5 %   4.8 %   4.7 %   4.7 %
$ 35.00    10.6 %   9.4 %   8.1 %   7.2 %   6.5 %   6.4 %   6.4 %
$ 40.00    18.2 %   17.0 %   15.6 %   14.0 %   12.2 %   11.3 %   11.3 %
$ 45.00    16.2 %   14.7 %   12.8 %   11.1 %   9.1 %   7.3 %   7.3 %
$ 50.00    14.3 %   12.9 %   11.0 %   8.7 %   6.0 %   3.0 %   3.0 %
$ 60.00    11.4 %   10.1 %   8.3 %   6.1 %   3.4 %   0.0 %   0.0 %
$ 70.00    9.2 %   8.0 %   6.4 %   4.5 %   2.4 %   0.0 %   0.0 %
$ 80.00    7.4 %   6.4 %   5.0 %   3.6 %   1.9 %   0.0 %   0.0 %
$ 100.00    4.4 %   3.8 %   2.9 %   2.1 %   1.2 %   0.0 %   0.0 %
$ 125.00    1.8 %   1.5 %   1.1 %   0.8 %   0.4 %   0.0 %   0.0 %

The Stock Prices set forth in the table will be adjusted as of any date on which the Conversion Price of the Convertible Preferred Stock is adjusted. The adjusted Stock Prices will equal the stock prices applicable immediately prior to the adjustment divided by a fraction, the numerator of which is the Conversion Price immediately prior to the adjustment to the Conversion Price and the denominator of which is the conversion price as so adjusted.

The exact Stock Price and Effective Date may not be set forth on the table, in which case:

(i) if the Stock Price is between two Stock Prices on the table or the Effective Date is between two Effective Dates on the table, the Make-Whole Premium will be determined by straight-line interpolation between Make-Whole Premium amounts set forth for the higher and lower Stock Prices and the two Effective Dates, as applicable, based on a 365-day year;

(ii) if the Stock Price is in excess of $125 per share (subject to adjustment in the same manner as the Stock Price) the payment corresponding to row $125 will be paid; and

(iii) if the Stock Price is less than or equal to $30.05 per share (subject to adjustment in the same manner as the Stock Price), no Make-Whole Premium will be paid.

5. Voting.

(a) The shares of Preferred Stock shall have no voting rights except as set forth below or as otherwise required by Oklahoma law from time to time:

(i) If and whenever at any time or times a Voting Rights Triggering Event occurs, then the holders of shares of Preferred Stock, voting as a single class with any other preferred stock or preference securities having similar voting rights that are exercisable, including the 6.00% Preferred Stock, the 5.00% Preferred Stock (Series 2003), the

 

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5.00% Preferred Stock (Series 2005), the 4.50% Preferred Stock and the 4.125% Preferred Stock (the “Voting Rights Class”), will be entitled at the next regular or special meeting of stockholders of the Company to elect two additional directors of the Company. Upon the election of any such additional directors, the number of directors that comprise the Board of Directors shall be increased by such number of additional directors.

(ii) Such voting rights may be exercised at a special meeting of the holders of the shares of the Voting Rights Class, called as hereinafter provided, or at any annual meeting of stockholders held for the purpose of electing directors, and thereafter at each such annual meeting until such time as all dividends in arrears on the shares of Preferred Stock shall have been paid in full, at which time or times such voting rights and the term of the directors elected pursuant to Section 5(a)(i) shall terminate.

(iii) At any time when such voting rights shall have vested in holders of shares of the Voting Rights Class, an Officer of the Company may call, and, upon written request of the record holders of shares representing at least twenty-five percent (25%) of the voting power of the shares then outstanding of the Voting Rights Class, addressed to the Secretary of the Company, shall call a special meeting of the holders of shares of the Voting Rights Class. Such meeting shall be held at the earliest practicable date upon the notice required for annual meetings of stockholders at the place for holding annual meetings of stockholders of the Company, or, if none, at a place designated by the Board of Directors. Notwithstanding the provisions of this Section 5(a)(iii), no such special meeting shall be called during a period within the 60 days immediately preceding the date fixed for the next annual meeting of stockholders in which such case, the election of directors pursuant to Section 5(a)(i) shall be held at such annual meeting of stockholders.

(iv) At any meeting held for the purpose of electing directors at which the holders of the Voting Rights Class shall have the right to elect directors as provided herein, the presence in person or by proxy of the holders of shares representing more than fifty percent (50%) in voting power of the then outstanding shares of the Voting Rights Class shall be required and shall be sufficient to constitute a quorum of such class for the election of directors by such class. The affirmative vote of the holders of shares of Preferred Stock constituting a majority of the shares of Preferred Stock present at such meeting, in person or by proxy, shall be sufficient to elect any such director.

(v) Any director elected pursuant to the voting rights created under this Section 5(a) shall hold office until the next annual meeting of stockholders (unless such term has previously terminated pursuant to Section 5(a)(ii) ) and any vacancy in respect of any such director shall be filled only by vote of the remaining director so elected by holders of the Voting Rights Class, or if there be no such remaining director, by the holders of shares of the Voting Rights Class at a special meeting called in accordance with the procedures set forth in this Section 5, or, if no such special meeting is called, at the next annual meeting of stockholders. Upon any termination of such voting rights, the term of office of all directors elected pursuant to this Section 5 shall terminate.

(vi) So long as any shares of Preferred Stock remain outstanding, unless a greater percentage shall then be required by law, the Company shall not, without the

 

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affirmative vote or consent of the holders of at least 66  2/3% of the outstanding Preferred Stock voting or consenting, as the case may be, separately as one class, (i) create, authorize or issue any class or series of Senior Stock (or any security convertible into Senior Stock) or (ii) amend the Certificate of Incorporation so as to affect adversely the specified rights, preferences, privileges or voting rights of holders of shares of Preferred Stock.

(vii) In exercising the voting rights set forth in this Section 5(a), each share of Preferred Stock shall be entitled to one vote.

(b) The Company may authorize, increase the authorized amount of, or issue any class or series of Parity Stock or Junior Stock, without the consent of the holders of Preferred Stock, and in taking such actions the Company shall not be deemed to have affected adversely the rights, preferences, privileges or voting rights of holders of shares of Preferred Stock.

6. Liquidation Rights.

(a) In the event of any liquidation, winding-up or dissolution of the Company, whether voluntary or involuntary, each holder of shares of Preferred Stock shall be entitled to receive and to be paid out of the assets of the Company available for distribution to its stockholders the Liquidation Preference plus Accumulated Dividends and Accrued Dividends thereon in preference to the holders of, and before any payment or distribution is made on, any Junior Stock, including, without limitation, on any Common Stock.

(b) Neither the sale, conveyance, exchange or transfer (for cash, shares of stock, securities or other consideration) of all or substantially all the assets or business of the Company (other than in connection with the liquidation, winding-up or dissolution of its business) nor the merger or consolidation of the Company into or with any other Person shall be deemed to be a liquidation, winding-up or dissolution, voluntary or involuntary, for the purposes of this Section 6.

(c) After the payment to the holders of the shares of Preferred Stock of full preferential amounts provided for in this Section 6, the holders of Preferred Stock as such shall have no right or claim to any of the remaining assets of the Company.

(d) In the event the assets of the Company available for distribution to the holders of shares of Preferred Stock upon any liquidation, winding-up or dissolution of the Company, whether voluntary or involuntary, shall be insufficient to pay in full all amounts to which such holders are entitled pursuant to Section 6(a), no such distribution shall be made on account of any shares of Parity Stock upon such liquidation, dissolution or winding-up unless proportionate distributable amounts shall be paid on account of the shares of Preferred Stock, ratably, in proportion to the full distributable amounts for which holders of all Preferred Stock and of any Parity Stock are entitled upon such liquidation, winding-up or dissolution.

7. Conversion.

(a) Each holder of Preferred Stock shall have the right, at any time, at its option, from the Issue Date to convert, subject to the terms and provisions of this Section 7, any or all of such holder’s shares of Preferred Stock. In such case, the shares of Preferred Stock shall

 

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be converted into such whole number of fully paid and nonassessable shares of Common Stock as is equal, subject to Section 7(h), to the product of the number of shares of Preferred Stock being so converted multiplied by the quotient of (i) the Liquidation Preference divided by (ii) the Conversion Price then in effect.

The conversion right of a holder of Preferred Stock shall be exercised by the holder by the surrender to the Company of the certificates representing shares to be converted at any time during usual business hours at its principal place of business or the offices of its duly appointed Transfer Agent to be maintained by it, accompanied by written notice to the Company in the form of Exhibit B that the holder elects to convert all or a portion of the shares of Preferred Stock represented by such certificate and specifying the name or names (with address) in which a certificate or certificates for shares of Common Stock are to be issued and (if so required by the Company or its duly appointed Transfer Agent) by a written instrument or instruments of transfer in form reasonably satisfactory to the Company or its duly appointed Transfer Agent duly executed by the holder or its duly authorized legal representative and transfer tax stamps or funds therefor, if required pursuant to Section 7(j). Immediately prior to the close of business on the date of receipt by the Company or its duly appointed Transfer Agent of notice of conversion of shares of Preferred Stock, each converting holder of Preferred Stock shall be deemed to be the holder of record of Common Stock issuable upon conversion of such holder’s Preferred Stock notwithstanding that the share register of the Company shall then be closed or that certificates representing such Common Stock shall not then be actually delivered to such holder. On the date of any conversion, all rights with respect to the shares of Preferred Stock so converted, including the rights, if any, to receive notices, will terminate, except only the rights of holders thereof to (i) receive certificates for the number of whole shares of Common Stock into which such shares of Preferred Stock have been converted and cash, in lieu of any fractional shares as provided in Section 7(g); (ii) receive a Make-Whole Premium, if any, payable upon a Fundamental Change, in accordance with Section 4A; and (iii) exercise the rights to which they are entitled as holders of Common Stock.

(b) [Intentionally omitted].

(c) [Intentionally omitted].

(d) The Conversion Price shall be subject to adjustment as follows:

(i) In case the Company shall at any time or from time to time (A) pay a dividend (or other distribution) payable in shares of Common Stock on any class of capital stock (which, for purposes of this Section 7(d) shall include, without limitation, any dividends or distributions in the form of options, warrants or other rights to acquire capital stock) of the Company (other than the issuance of shares of Common Stock in connection with the conversion of, or payment or partial payment of dividends on, Preferred Stock); (B) subdivide the outstanding shares of Common Stock into a larger number of shares; (C) combine the outstanding shares of Common Stock into a smaller number of shares; (D) issue any shares of its capital stock in a reclassification of the Common Stock; or (E) pay a dividend or make a distribution to all holders of shares of Common Stock (other than a dividend or distribution subject to Section 7(d)(ii)) pursuant to a stockholder rights plan, “poison pill” or similar arrangement and excluding dividends payable on the Preferred Stock then, and in each such case,

 

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the Conversion Price in effect immediately prior to such event shall be adjusted (and any other appropriate actions shall be taken by the Company) so that the holder of any share of Preferred Stock thereafter surrendered for conversion shall be entitled to receive the number of shares of Common Stock that such holder would have owned or would have been entitled to receive upon or by reason of any of the events described above, had such share of Preferred Stock been converted into shares of Common Stock immediately prior to the occurrence of such event. An adjustment made pursuant to this Section 7(d)(i) shall become effective retroactively (x) in the case of any such dividend or distribution, to the day immediately following the close of business on the record date for the determination of holders of Common Stock entitled to receive such dividend or distribution or (y) in the case of any such subdivision, combination or reclassification, to the close of business on the day upon which such corporate action becomes effective.

(ii) In case the Company shall at any time or from time to time issue to all holders of its Common Stock rights, options or warrants entitling the holders thereof to subscribe for or purchase shares of Common Stock (or securities convertible into or exchangeable for shares of Common Stock) at a price per share less than the Market Value for the period ending on the date of issuance (treating the price per share of any security convertible or exchangeable or exercisable into Common Stock as equal to (A) the sum of the price paid to acquire such security convertible, exchangeable or exercisable into Common Stock plus any additional consideration payable (without regard to any anti-dilution adjustments) upon the conversion, exchange or exercise of such security into Common Stock divided by (B) the number of shares of Common Stock into which such convertible, exchangeable or exercisable security is initially convertible, exchangeable or exercisable), other than (i) issuances of such rights, options or warrants if the holder of Preferred Stock would be entitled to receive such rights, options or warrants upon conversion at any time of shares of Preferred Stock into Common Stock and (ii) issuances that are subject to certain triggering events (until such time as such triggering events occur), then, and in each such case, the Conversion Price then in effect shall be adjusted by dividing the Conversion Price in effect on the day immediately prior to the record date of such issuance by a fraction (y) the numerator of which shall be the sum of the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding on such record date plus the number of additional shares of Common Stock issued or to be issued upon or as a result of the issuance of such rights, options or warrants (or the maximum number into or for which such convertible or exchangeable securities initially may convert or exchange or for which such options, warrants or other rights initially may be exercised) and (z) the denominator of which shall be the sum of the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding on such record date plus the number of shares of Common Stock which the aggregate consideration for the total number of such additional shares of Common Stock so issued (or into or for which such convertible or exchangeable securities may convert or exchange or for which such options, warrants or other rights may be exercised plus the aggregate amount of any additional consideration initially payable upon the conversion, exchange or exercise of such security) would purchase at the Market Value for the period ending on the date of conversion; provided, that if the Company distributes rights or warrants (other than those referred to above in this subparagraph (d)(ii)) pro rata to the holders of Common Stock, so long as such rights or warrants have not expired or been redeemed by the Company, (y) the holder of any Preferred Stock surrendered for conversion shall be entitled to receive upon such conversion, in addition to the shares of Common Stock then issuable upon such conversion (the “Conversion Shares”), a number of rights or warrants to be determined as

 

16


follows: (i) if such conversion occurs on or prior to the date for the distribution to the holders of rights or warrants of separate certificates evidencing such rights or warrants (the “Distribution Date”), the same number of rights or warrants to which a holder of a number of shares of Common Stock equal to the number of Conversion Shares is entitled at the time of such conversion in accordance with the terms and provisions applicable to the rights or warrants and (ii) if such conversion occurs after the Distribution Date, the same number of rights or warrants to which a holder of the number of shares of Common Stock into which such Preferred Stock was convertible immediately prior to such Distribution Date would have been entitled on such Distribution Date had such Preferred Stock been converted immediately prior to such Distribution Date in accordance with the terms and provisions applicable to the rights and warrants and (z) the Conversion Price shall not be subject to adjustment on account of any declaration, distribution or exercise of such rights or warrants.

(iii) If the Company shall at any time make a distribution, by dividend or otherwise, to all holders of shares of its Common Stock consisting exclusively of cash (excluding any cash portion of distributions referred to in clause (E) of paragraph (d)(i) above and cash distributed upon a merger or consolidation to which paragraph (h) below applies) in an amount per share of Common Stock that, when combined with the per share amounts of all other all-cash distributions to all holders of shares of its Common Stock made within the 90-day period ending on the record date for the distribution giving rise to an adjustment pursuant to this Section 7(d)(iii), exceeds $0.065 per share of Common Stock (the “Distribution Threshold Amount”), then the Conversion Price will be adjusted by multiplying:

(1) the Conversion Price in effect immediately prior to the close of business on the record date fixed for the determination of holders of Common Stock entitled to receive such distribution by

(2) a fraction, the numerator of which will be the Market Value on the fourth trading day on the NYSE prior to such record date minus the amount of cash per share of Common Stock so distributed in excess of the Distribution Threshold Amount for which an adjustment has not otherwise been made pursuant to this Section 7(d)(iii) and the denominator of which will be the Market Value on the fourth trading day on the NYSE prior to such record date.

Subject to Section 7(e), such adjustment shall become effective immediately after the record date for the determination of holders of Common Stock entitled to receive the distribution giving rise to an adjustment pursuant to this Section 7(d)(iii). If an adjustment is required to be made under this clause 7(d) as a result of a cash dividend in any quarterly period that exceeds the Distribution Threshold Amount, the adjustment shall be based upon the amount by which the distribution exceeds the Distribution Threshold Amount. If an adjustment is otherwise required to be made under this clause 7(d), the adjustment shall be based upon the full amount of the distribution. The Distribution Threshold Amount is subject to adjustment under the same circumstances under which the Conversion Price is subject to adjustment pursuant to Section 7(d)(i) or Section 7(d)(ii). Notwithstanding the foregoing, in no event will the Conversion Price be less than $30.05, subject to adjustment under the same circumstances under which the Conversion Price is subject to adjustment pursuant to Section 7(d)(i), 7(d)(ii) and 7(d)(iv) and 7(d)(v).

 

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(iv) If the Company shall at any time or from time to time on the record date of such distribution; (A) complete a tender or exchange offer by the Company or any of its subsidiaries for shares of Common Stock that involves an aggregate consideration that, together with (I) any cash and other consideration payable in a tender or exchange offer by the Company or any of its subsidiaries for shares of Common Stock expiring within the then-preceding 12 months in respect of which no adjustment pursuant to this Section 7(d) has been made and (II) the aggregate amount of any such all-cash distributions referred to in clause (iii) above to all holders of shares of Common Stock within the then-preceding 12 months in respect of which no adjustments have been made, exceeds 15% of the Company’s market capitalization (defined as the product of the Market Value for the period ending on the record date of such distribution times the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding on such record date) on the expiration of such tender offer; or (B) make a distribution to all holders of its Common Stock consisting of evidences of indebtedness, shares of its capital stock other than Common Stock or assets (including securities, but excluding those dividends, rights, options, warrants and distributions referred to in paragraphs (d)(i), (d)(ii), (d)(iii) above or this (d)(iv)), then, and in each such case, the Conversion Price then in effect shall be adjusted by dividing the Conversion Price in effect immediately prior to the date of such distribution or completion of such tender or exchange offer, as the case may be, by a fraction (x) the numerator of which shall be the Market Value for the period ending on the record date referred to below, or, if such adjustment is made upon the completion of a tender or exchange offer, on the payment date for such offer, and (y) the denominator of which shall be such Market Value less the then fair market value (as determined by the Board of Directors of the Company) of the portion of the cash, evidences of indebtedness, securities or other assets so distributed or paid in such tender or exchange offer, applicable to one share of Common Stock (but such denominator shall not be less than one); provided, however, that no adjustment shall be made with respect to any distribution of rights to purchase securities of the Company if the holder of Preferred Stock would otherwise be entitled to receive such rights upon conversion at any time of shares of Preferred Stock into shares of Common Stock unless such rights are subsequently redeemed by the Company, in which case such redemption shall be treated for purposes of this Section 7(d)(iv) as a dividend on the Common Stock. Such adjustment shall be made whenever any such distribution is made or tender or exchange offer is completed, as the case may be, and shall become effective retroactively to a date immediately following the close of business on the record date for the determination of stockholders entitled to receive such distribution.

(v) In the case the Company at any time or from time to time shall take any action affecting its Common Stock (it being understood that the issuance or sale of shares of Common Stock (or securities convertible into or exchangeable for shares of Common Stock, or any options, warrants or other rights to acquire shares of Common Stock) to any Person at a price per share less than the Conversion Price then in effect shall not be deemed such an action), other than an action described in any of Section 7(d)(i) through Section 7(d)(iv), inclusive, or Section 7(h), or the issuance of shares of Common Stock as a dividend on Preferred Stock, then the Conversion Price shall be adjusted in such manner and at such time as the Board of Directors of the Company in good faith determines to be equitable in the circumstances (such determination to be evidenced in a resolution, a certified copy of which shall be mailed to the holders of the Preferred Stock).

 

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(vi) Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, no adjustment under this Section 7(d) need be made to the Conversion Price unless such adjustment would require an increase or decrease of at least 1% of the Conversion Price then in effect. Any lesser adjustment shall be carried forward and shall be made at the time of and together with the next subsequent adjustment, if any, which, together with any adjustment or adjustments so carried forward, shall amount to an increase or decrease of at least 1% of such Conversion Price; provided, however, that with respect to adjustments to be made to the Conversion Price in connection with cash dividends paid by the Company, the Company shall make such adjustments, regardless of whether such aggregate adjustments amount to 1% or more of the Conversion Price, no later than November 15 of each calendar year.

(vii) The Company reserves the right to make such reductions in the Conversion Price in addition to those required in the foregoing provisions as it considers advisable in order that any event treated for Federal income tax purposes as a dividend of stock or stock rights will not be taxable to the recipients. In the event the Company elects to make such a reduction in the Conversion Price, the Company will comply with the requirements of Rule 14e-1 under the Exchange Act, and any other securities laws and regulations thereunder if and to the extent that such laws and regulations are applicable in connection with the reduction of the Conversion Price.

(e) If the Company shall take a record of the holders of its Common Stock for the purpose of entitling them to receive a dividend or other distribution, and shall thereafter (and before the dividend or distribution has been paid or delivered to stockholders) legally abandon its plan to pay or deliver such dividend or distribution, then thereafter no adjustment in the Conversion Price then in effect shall be required by reason of the taking of such record.

(f) Upon any increase or decrease in the Conversion Price, then, and in each such case, the Company promptly shall deliver to each holder of Preferred Stock a certificate signed by an authorized officer of the Company, setting forth in reasonable detail the event requiring the adjustment and the method by which such adjustment was calculated and specifying the increased or decreased Conversion Price then in effect following such adjustment.

(g) No fractional shares or securities representing fractional shares of Common Stock shall be issued upon the conversion of any shares of Preferred Stock, whether voluntary or mandatory, or in respect of the payment or partial payment of dividends on Preferred Stock in Common Stock. If more than one share of Preferred Stock shall be surrendered for conversion at one time by the same holder, the number of full shares of Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof shall be computed on the basis of the aggregate Liquidation Preference of the shares of Preferred Stock so surrendered. If the conversion of any share or shares of Preferred Stock results in a fraction, an amount equal to such fraction multiplied by the last reported sale price of the Common Stock on the NYSE (or on such other national securities exchange or automated quotation system on which the Common Stock is then listed for trading or authorized for quotation or, if the Common Stock is not then so listed or authorized for quotation, an amount determined in good faith by the Board of Directors to be the fair value of the Common Stock) at the close of business on the Trading Day next preceding the day of conversion shall be paid to such holder in cash by the Company.

 

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(h) In the event of any reclassification of outstanding shares of Common Stock (other than a change in par value, or from par value to no par value, or from no par value to par value), or in the event of any consolidation or merger of the Company with or into another Person or any merger of another Person with or into the Company (other than a consolidation or merger in which the Company is the resulting or surviving Person and which does not result in any reclassification or change of outstanding Common Stock), or in the event of any sale or other disposition to another Person of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company (computed on a consolidated basis) (any of the foregoing, a “Transaction”), each share of Preferred Stock then outstanding shall, without the consent of any holder of Preferred Stock, become convertible at any time, at the option of the holder thereof, only into the kind and amount of securities (of the Company or another issuer), cash and other property receivable upon such Transaction by a holder of the number of shares of Common Stock into which such share of Preferred Stock could have been converted immediately prior to such Transaction, after giving effect to any adjustment event. The provisions of this Section 7(h) and any equivalent thereof in any such securities similarly shall apply to successive Transactions. The provisions of this Section 7(h), Section 4 and Section 4A shall be the sole rights of holders of Preferred Stock in connection with any Transaction and such holders shall have no separate vote thereon.

(i) The Company shall at all times reserve and keep available for issuance upon the conversion of the Preferred Stock such number of its authorized but unissued shares of Common Stock as will from time to time be sufficient to permit the conversion of all outstanding shares of Preferred Stock, and shall take all action required to increase the authorized number of shares of Common Stock if at any time there shall be insufficient unissued shares of Common Stock to permit such reservation or to permit the conversion of all outstanding shares of Preferred Stock or the payment or partial payment of dividends declared on Preferred Stock that are payable in Common Stock.

(j) The issuance or delivery of certificates for Common Stock upon the conversion of shares of Preferred Stock or the payment or partial payment of a dividend on Preferred Stock in Common Stock, shall be made without charge to the converting holder or recipient of shares of Preferred Stock for such certificates or for any tax in respect of the issuance or delivery of such certificates or the securities represented thereby, and such certificates shall be issued or delivered in the respective names of, or in such names as may be directed by, the holders of the shares of Preferred Stock converted; provided, however, that the Company shall not be required to pay any tax which may be payable in respect of any transfer involved in the issuance and delivery of any such certificate in a name other than that of the holder of the shares of the relevant Preferred Stock and the Company shall not be required to issue or deliver such certificate unless or until the Person or Persons requesting the issuance or delivery thereof shall have paid to the Company the amount of such tax or shall have established to the reasonable satisfaction of the Company that such tax has been paid.

8. Mandatory Conversion.

(a) At any time on or after November 15, 2010, the Company shall have the right, at its option, to cause the Preferred Stock, in whole but not in part, to be automatically converted into that number of whole shares of Common Stock for each share of Preferred Stock equal to the quotient of (i) the Liquidation Preference divided by (ii) the Conversion Price then in

 

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effect, with any resulting fractional shares of Common Stock to be settled in accordance with Section 7(g). The Company may exercise its right to cause a mandatory conversion pursuant to this Section 8(a) only if the closing price of the Common Stock equals or exceeds 130% of the Conversion Price then in effect for at least 20 Trading Days in any consecutive 30 Trading Day period on the NYSE (or such other national securities exchange or automated quotation system on which the Common Stock is then listed or authorized for quotation), including the last Trading Day of such 30-day period, ending on the Trading Day prior to the Company’s issuance of a press release announcing the mandatory conversion as described in Section 8(b).

(b) To exercise the mandatory conversion right described in Section 8(a), the Company must issue a press release for publication on the Dow Jones News Service prior to the opening of business on the first Trading Day following any date on which the conditions described in Section 8(a) are met, announcing such a mandatory conversion. The Company shall also give notice by mail or by publication (with subsequent prompt notice by mail) to the holders of Preferred Stock (not more than four Business Days after the date of the press release) of the mandatory conversion announcing the Company’s intention to convert the Preferred Stock. The conversion date will be a date selected by the Company (the “Mandatory Conversion Date”) and will be no more than ten days after the date on which the Company issues the press release described in this Section 8(b).

(c) In addition to any information required by applicable law or regulation, the press release and notice of a mandatory conversion described in Section 8(b) shall state, as appropriate: (i) the Mandatory Conversion Date; (ii) the number of shares of Common Stock to be issued upon conversion of each share of Preferred Stock; (iii) the number of shares of Preferred Stock to be converted; and (iv) that dividends on the Preferred Stock to be converted will cease to accrue on the Mandatory Conversion Date.

(d) On and after the Mandatory Conversion Date, dividends will cease to accrue on the Preferred Stock called for a mandatory conversion pursuant to Section 8(a) and all rights of holders of such Preferred Stock will terminate except for the right to receive the whole shares of Common Stock issuable upon conversion thereof and cash, in lieu of any fractional shares of Common Stock in accordance with Section 7(g). The dividend payment with respect to the Preferred Stock called for a mandatory conversion pursuant to Section 8(a) on a date during the period between the close of business on any Dividend Record Date to the close of business on the corresponding Dividend Payment Date will be payable on such Dividend Payment Date to the record holder of such share on such Dividend Record Date if such share has been converted after such Dividend Record Date and prior to such Dividend Payment Date. Except as provided in the immediately preceding sentence with respect to a mandatory conversion pursuant to Section 8(a), no payment or adjustment will be made upon conversion of Preferred Stock for Accrued Dividends or for dividends with respect to the Common Stock issued upon such conversion.

(e) The Company may not authorize, issue a press release or give notice of any mandatory conversion pursuant to Section 8(a) unless, prior to giving the conversion notice, all Accumulated Dividends on the Preferred Stock for periods ended prior to the date of such conversion notice shall have been paid.

 

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(f) In addition to the mandatory conversion right described in Section 8(a), if there are less than 250,000 shares of Preferred Stock outstanding, the Company shall have the right, at any time on or after November 15, 2010, at its option, to cause the Preferred Stock to be automatically converted into that number of whole shares of Common Stock equal to the quotient of (i) the Liquidation Preference divided by (ii) the lesser of (A) the Conversion Price then in effect and (B) the Market Value for the period ending on the second Trading Day immediately prior to the Mandatory Conversion Date, with any resulting fractional shares of Common Stock to be settled in cash in accordance with Section 7(g). The provisions of clauses (b), (c), (d) and (e) of this Section 8 shall apply to any mandatory conversion pursuant to this clause (f); provided that (i) the Mandatory Conversion Date described in Section 8(b) shall not be less than 15 days nor more than 30 days after the date on which the Company issues a press release pursuant to Section 8(b) announcing such mandatory conversion and (ii) the press release and notice of mandatory conversion described in Section 8(c) will not state the number of shares of Common Stock to be issued upon conversion of each share of Preferred Stock.

9. Consolidation, Merger and Sale of Assets.

(a) The Company, without the consent of the holders of any of the outstanding Preferred Stock, may consolidate with or merge into any other Person or convey, transfer or lease all or substantially all its assets to any Person or may permit any Person to consolidate with or merge into, or transfer or lease all or substantially all its properties to, the Company; provided, however, that (i) the successor, transferee or lessee is organized under the laws of the United States or any political subdivision thereof; (ii) the shares of Preferred Stock will become shares of such successor, transferee or lessee, having in respect of such successor, transferee or lessee the same powers, preferences and relative participating, optional or other special rights and the qualification, limitations or restrictions thereon, the Preferred Stock had immediately prior to such transaction; and (c) the Company delivers to the Transfer Agent an Officers’ Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel stating that such transaction complies with this Certificate of Designation.

(b) Upon any consolidation by the Company with, or merger by the Company into, any other person or any conveyance, transfer or lease of all or substantially all the assets of the Company as described in Section 9(a), the successor resulting from such consolidation or into which the Company is merged or the transferee or lessee to which such conveyance, transfer or lease is made, will succeed to, and be substituted for, and may exercise every right and power of, the Company under the shares of Preferred Stock, and thereafter, except in the case of a lease, the predecessor (if still in existence) will be released from its obligations and covenants with respect to the Preferred Stock. Nothing in this Section 9 limits the rights of Holders set out in Section 4 and Section 4A.

10. SEC Reports.

Whether or not the Company is required to file reports with the Commission, if any shares of Preferred Stock are outstanding, the Company shall file with the Commission all such reports and other information as it would be required to file with the Commission by Section 13(a)or 15(d) under the Exchange Act. The Company shall supply each holder of Preferred Stock, upon request, without cost to such holder, copies of such reports or other information.

 

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11. Certificates.

(a) Form and Dating. The Preferred Stock and the Transfer Agent’s certificate of authentication shall be substantially in the form set forth in Exhibit A, which is hereby incorporated in and expressly made a part of this Certificate of Designation. The Preferred Stock certificate may have notations, legends or endorsements required by law, stock exchange rules, agreements to which the Company is subject, if any, or usage (provided that any such notation, legend or endorsement is in a form acceptable to the Company). Each Preferred Stock certificate shall be dated the date of its authentication. The terms of the Preferred Stock certificate set forth in Exhibit A are part of the terms of this Certificate of Designation.

(i) Global Preferred Stock. The Preferred Stock shall be issued initially in the form of one or more fully registered global certificates with the global securities legend and restricted securities legend set forth in Exhibit A hereto (the “Global Preferred Stock”), which shall be deposited on behalf of the purchasers represented thereby with the Transfer Agent, as custodian for DTC (or with such other custodian as DTC may direct), and registered in the name of DTC or a nominee of DTC, duly executed by the Company and authenticated by the Transfer Agent as hereinafter provided. The number of shares of Preferred Stock represented by Global Preferred Stock may from time to time be increased or decreased by adjustments made on the records of the Transfer Agent and DTC or its nominee as hereinafter provided. With respect to shares of Preferred Stock that are not “restricted securities” as defined in Rule 144 on a conversion date, all shares of Common Stock distributed on such conversion date or the payment or partial payment of a dividend in Common Stock will be freely transferable without restriction under the Securities Act (other than by affiliates), and such shares will be eligible for receipt in global form through the facilities of DTC.

(ii) Book-Entry Provisions. In the event Global Preferred Stock is deposited with or on behalf of DTC, the Company shall execute and the Transfer Agent shall authenticate and deliver initially one or more Global Preferred Stock certificates that (a) shall be registered in the name of DTC as depository for such Global Preferred Stock or the nominee of DTC and (b) shall be delivered by the Transfer Agent to DTC or pursuant to DTC’s instructions or held by the Transfer Agent as custodian for DTC.

Members of, or participants in, DTC (“Agent Members”) shall have no rights under this Certificate of Designation with respect to any Global Preferred Stock held on their behalf by DTC or by the Transfer Agent as the custodian of DTC or under such Global Preferred Stock, and DTC may be treated by the Company, the Transfer Agent and any agent of the Company or the Transfer Agent as the absolute owner of such Global Preferred Stock for all purposes whatsoever. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing herein shall prevent the Company, the Transfer Agent or any agent of the Company or the Transfer Agent from giving effect to any written certification, proxy or other authorization furnished by DTC or impair, as between DTC and its Agent Members, the operation of customary practices of DTC governing the exercise of the rights of a holder of a beneficial interest in any Global Preferred Stock.

 

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(iii) Certificated Preferred Stock; Certificated Common Stock. Except as provided in this paragraph 11(a) or in paragraph 11(c), owners of beneficial interests in Global Preferred Stock will not be entitled to receive physical delivery of Preferred Stock in fully registered certificated form (“Certificated Preferred Stock”). With respect to shares of Preferred Stock that are “restricted securities” as defined in Rule 144 on a conversion date, all shares of Common Stock issuable on conversion of such shares on such conversion date or on payment or partial payment of a dividend in Common Stock will be issued in fully registered certificated form (“Certificated Common Stock”). Certificates of Certificated Common Stock will be mailed or made available at the office of the Transfer Agent for the Preferred Stock on or as soon as reasonably practicable after the relevant conversion date to the converting holder.

After a transfer of any Preferred Stock or Certificated Common Stock during the period of the effectiveness of a Shelf Registration Statement with respect to such Preferred Stock or such Certificated Common Stock, all requirements pertaining to legends on such Preferred Stock (including Global Preferred Stock) or Certificated Common Stock will cease to apply, the requirements requiring that any such Certificated Common Stock issued to Holders be issued in certificated form, as the case may, will cease to apply, and Preferred Stock or Common Stock, as the case may be, in global or fully registered certificated form, in either case without legends, will be available to the transferee of the Holder of such Preferred Stock or Certificated Common Stock upon exchange of such transferring Holder’s Preferred Stock or Common Stock or directions to transfer such Holder’s interest in the Global Preferred Stock, as applicable.

(b) Execution and Authentication. Two Officers shall sign the Preferred Stock certificate for the Company by manual or facsimile signature.

If an Officer whose signature is on a Preferred Stock certificate no longer holds that office at the time the Transfer Agent authenticates the Preferred Stock certificate, the Preferred Stock certificate shall be valid nevertheless.

A Preferred Stock certificate shall not be valid until an authorized signatory of the Transfer Agent manually signs the certificate of authentication on the Preferred Stock certificate. The signature shall be conclusive evidence that the Preferred Stock certificate has been authenticated under this Certificate of Designation.

The Transfer Agent shall authenticate and deliver certificates for up to 5,750,000 shares of Preferred Stock for original issue upon a written order of the Company signed by two Officers or by an Officer and an Assistant Treasurer of the Company. Such order shall specify the number of shares of Preferred Stock to be authenticated and the date on which the original issue of Preferred Stock is to be authenticated.

The Transfer Agent may appoint an authenticating agent reasonably acceptable to the Company to authenticate the certificates for Preferred Stock. Unless limited by the terms of such appointment, an authenticating agent may authenticate certificates for Preferred Stock whenever the Transfer Agent may do so. Each reference in this Certificate of Designation to authentication by the Transfer Agent includes authentication by such agent. An authenticating agent has the same rights as the Transfer Agent or agent for service of notices and demands.

 

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(c) Transfer and Exchange. (i) Transfer and Exchange of Certificated Preferred Stock. When Certificated Preferred Stock is presented to the Transfer Agent with a request to register the transfer of such Certificated Preferred Stock or to exchange such Certificated Preferred Stock for an equal number of shares of Certificated Preferred Stock, the Transfer Agent shall register the transfer or make the exchange as requested if its reasonable requirements for such transaction are met; provided, however, that the Certificated Preferred Stock surrendered for transfer or exchange:

(1) shall be duly endorsed or accompanied by a written instrument of transfer in form reasonably satisfactory to the Company and the Transfer Agent, duly executed by the Holder thereof or its attorney duly authorized in writing; and

(2) is being transferred or exchanged pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act or pursuant to clause (i) or (ii) below, and is accompanied by the following additional information and documents, as applicable:

(A) if such Certificated Preferred Stock is being delivered to the Transfer Agent by a Holder for registration in the name of such Holder, without transfer, a certification from such Holder to that effect in substantially the form of Exhibit C hereto; or

(B) if such Certificated Preferred Stock is being transferred to the Company or to a “qualified institutional buyer” (“QIB”) in accordance with Rule 144A under the Securities Act or pursuant to another exemption from registration under the Securities Act, (i) a certification to that effect (in substantially the form of Exhibit C hereto) and (ii) if the Company so requests, an Opinion of Counsel or other evidence reasonably satisfactory to it as to the compliance with the restrictions set forth in the legend set forth in paragraph 11(c) (vii).

(ii) Restrictions on Transfer of Certificated Preferred Stock for a Beneficial Interest in Global Preferred Stock. Certificated Preferred Stock may not be exchanged for a beneficial interest in Global Preferred Stock except upon satisfaction of the requirements set forth below. Upon receipt by the Transfer Agent of Certificated Preferred Stock, duly endorsed or accompanied by appropriate instruments of transfer, in form reasonably satisfactory to the Company and the Transfer Agent, together with written instructions directing the Transfer Agent to make, or to direct DTC to make, an adjustment on its books and records with respect to such Global Preferred Stock to reflect an increase in the number of shares of Preferred Stock represented by the Global Preferred Stock, then the Transfer Agent shall cancel such Certificated Preferred Stock and cause, or direct DTC to cause, in accordance with the standing instructions and procedures existing between DTC and the Transfer Agent, the number of shares of Preferred Stock represented by the Global Preferred Stock to be increased accordingly. If no Global Preferred Stock is then outstanding, the Company shall issue and the Transfer Agent shall authenticate, upon written order of the Company in the form of an Officers’ Certificate, a new Global Preferred Stock representing the appropriate number of shares.

 

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(iii) Transfer and Exchange of Global Preferred Stock. The transfer and exchange of Global Preferred Stock or beneficial interests therein shall be effected through DTC, in accordance with this Certificate of Designation (including applicable restrictions on transfer set forth herein, if any) and the procedures of DTC therefor.

(iv) Transfer of a Beneficial Interest in Global Preferred Stock for a Certificated Preferred Stock.

(1) Any Person having a beneficial interest in Preferred Stock that is being transferred or exchanged pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act or pursuant to another exemption from registration thereunder may upon request, but only with the consent of the Company, and if accompanied by a certification from such Person to that effect (in substantially the form of Exhibit C hereto), exchange such beneficial interest for Certificated Preferred Stock representing the same number of shares of Preferred Stock. Upon receipt by the Transfer Agent of written instructions or such other form of instructions as is customary for DTC from DTC or its nominee on behalf of any Person having a beneficial interest in Global Preferred Stock and upon receipt by the Transfer Agent of a written order or such other form of instructions as is customary for DTC or the Person designated by DTC as having such a beneficial interest in a Transfer Restricted Security only, then, the Transfer Agent or DTC, at the direction of the Transfer Agent, will cause, in accordance with the standing instructions and procedures existing between DTC and the Transfer Agent, the number of shares of Preferred Stock represented by Global Preferred Stock to be reduced on its books and records and, following such reduction, the Company will execute and the Transfer Agent will authenticate and deliver to the transferee Certificated Preferred Stock.

(2) Certificated Preferred Stock issued in exchange for a beneficial interest in a Global Preferred Stock pursuant to this paragraph 11(c)(iv) shall be registered in such names and in such authorized denominations as DTC, pursuant to instructions from its direct or indirect participants or otherwise, shall instruct the Transfer Agent. The Transfer Agent shall deliver such Certificated Preferred Stock to the Persons in whose names such Preferred Stock are so registered in accordance with the instructions of DTC.

(v) Restrictions on Transfer and Exchange of Global Preferred Stock.

(1) Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Certificate of Designation (other than the provisions set forth in paragraph 11(c)(vi)), Global Preferred Stock may not be transferred as a whole except by DTC to a nominee of DTC or by a nominee of DTC to DTC or another nominee of DTC or by DTC or any such nominee to a successor depository or a nominee of such successor depository.

(2) In the event that the Global Preferred Stock is exchanged for Preferred Stock in definitive registered form pursuant to paragraph 11(c)(vi) prior to the effectiveness of a Shelf Registration Statement with respect to such securities, such Preferred Stock may be exchanged only in accordance with such procedures as are

 

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substantially consistent with the provisions of this paragraph 11(c) (including the certification requirements set forth in the Exhibits to this Certificate of Designation intended to ensure that such transfers comply with Rule 144A or such other applicable exemption from registration under the Securities Act, as the case may be) and such other procedures as may from time to time be adopted by the Company.

(vi) Authentication of Certificated Preferred Stock. If at any time:

(1) DTC notifies the Company that DTC is unwilling or unable to continue as depository for the Global Preferred Stock and a successor depository for the Global Preferred Stock is not appointed by the Company within 90 days after delivery of such notice;

(2) DTC ceases to be a clearing agency registered under the Exchange Act and a successor depository for the Global Preferred Stock is not appointed by the Company within 90 days; or

(3) the Company, in its sole discretion, notifies the Transfer Agent in writing that it elects to cause the issuance of Certificated Preferred Stock under this Certificate of Designation,

then the Company will execute, and the Transfer Agent, upon receipt of a written order of the Company signed by two Officers or by an Officer and an Assistant Treasurer of the Company requesting the authentication and delivery of Certificated Preferred Stock to the Persons designated by the Company, will authenticate and deliver Certificated Preferred Stock equal to the number of shares of Preferred Stock represented by the Global Preferred Stock, in exchange for such Global Preferred Stock.

(vii) Legend.

(1) Except as permitted by the following paragraph (2) and in paragraph 11(a)(iii), each certificate evidencing the Global Preferred Stock, the Certificated Preferred Stock and Certificated Common Stock shall bear a legend in substantially the following form:

“THIS SECURITY (OR ITS PREDECESSOR) WAS ORIGINALLY ISSUED IN A TRANSACTION EXEMPT FROM REGISTRATION UNDER THE UNITED STATES SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 (THE “SECURITIES ACT”), AND THIS SECURITY AND ANY SECURITY ISSUABLE UPON CONVERSION HEREOF MAY NOT BE OFFERED, SOLD OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED IN THE ABSENCE OF SUCH REGISTRATION OR AN APPLICABLE EXEMPTION THEREFROM. EACH PURCHASER OF THIS SECURITY IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE SELLER OF THIS SECURITY MAY BE RELYING ON THE EXEMPTION FROM THE PROVISIONS OF SECTION 5 OF THE SECURITIES ACT PROVIDED BY RULE 144A THEREUNDER.

 

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THE HOLDER OF THIS SECURITY AGREES FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE COMPANY THAT (A) THIS SECURITY AND ANY SECURITY ISSUABLE UPON CONVERSION HEREOF MAY BE OFFERED, RESOLD, PLEDGED OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED, ONLY (I) IN THE UNITED STATES TO A PERSON WHO THE SELLER REASONABLY BELIEVES IS A QUALIFIED INSTITUTIONAL BUYER (AS DEFINED IN RULE 144A UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT) IN A TRANSACTION MEETING THE REQUIREMENTS OF RULE 144A, (II) OUTSIDE OF THE UNITED STATES IN AN OFFSHORE TRANSACTION IN ACCORDANCE WITH RULE 904 UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, (III) PURSUANT TO AN EXEMPTION FROM REGISTRATION UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT PROVIDED BY RULE 144 THEREUNDER (IF AVAILABLE) OR (IV) PURSUANT TO AN EFFECTIVE REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, IN EACH OF CASES (I) THROUGH (IV) IN ACCORDANCE WITH ANY APPLICABLE SECURITIES LAWS OF ANY STATE OF THE UNITED STATES, AND (B) THE HOLDER WILL, AND EACH SUBSEQUENT HOLDER IS REQUIRED TO, NOTIFY ANY PURCHASER OF THIS SECURITY FROM IT OF THE RESALE RESTRICTIONS REFERRED TO IN (A) ABOVE. IN ANY CASE, THE HOLDER HEREOF WILL NOT, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, ENGAGE IN ANY HEDGING TRANSACTION WITH REGARD TO THE SECURITIES EXCEPT AS PERMITTED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT.”1

(2) Upon any sale or transfer of a Transfer Restricted Security (including any Transfer Restricted Security represented by Global Preferred Stock) pursuant to Rule 144 under the Securities Act or another exemption from registration under the Securities Act or an effective registration statement under the Securities Act:

(A) in the case of any Transfer Restricted Security that is a Certificated Preferred Stock, the Transfer Agent shall permit the Holder thereof to exchange such Transfer Restricted Security for Certificated Preferred Stock that does not bear a restrictive legend and rescind any restriction on the transfer of such Transfer Restricted Security; and

(B) in the case of any Transfer Restricted Security that is represented by a Global Preferred Stock, with the consent of the Company, the Transfer Agent shall permit the Holder thereof to exchange such Transfer Restricted Security for Certificated Preferred Stock that does not bear the legend set forth above and rescind any restriction on the transfer of such Transfer Restricted Security, if the Holder’s request for such exchange was made in reliance on Rule 144 or another exemption from registration under the Securities Act and the Holder certifies to that effect in writing to the Transfer Agent (such certification to be in the form set forth in Exhibit C hereto).

 

1

Subject to removal upon registration under the Securities Act of 1933 or otherwise when the security shall no longer be a Transfer Restricted Security.

 

28


(viii) Cancelation or Adjustment of Global Preferred Stock. At such time as all beneficial interests in Global Preferred Stock have either been exchanged for Certificated Preferred Stock, converted or canceled, such Global Preferred Stock shall be returned to DTC for cancelation or retained and canceled by the Transfer Agent. At any time prior to such cancelation, if any beneficial interest in Global Preferred Stock is exchanged for Certificated Preferred Stock, converted or canceled, the number of shares of Preferred Stock represented by such Global Preferred Stock shall be reduced and an adjustment shall be made on the books and records of the Transfer Agent with respect to such Global Preferred Stock, by the Transfer Agent or DTC, to reflect such reduction.

(ix) Obligations with Respect to Transfers and Exchanges of Preferred Stock.

(1) To permit registrations of transfers and exchanges, the Company shall execute and the Transfer Agent shall authenticate Certificated Preferred Stock and Global Preferred Stock as required pursuant to the provisions of this paragraph 11(c).

(2) All Certificated Preferred Stock and Global Preferred Stock issued upon any registration of transfer or exchange of Certificated Preferred Stock or Global Preferred Stock shall be the valid obligations of the Company, entitled to the same benefits under this Certificate of Designation as the Certificated Preferred Stock or Global Preferred Stock surrendered upon such registration of transfer or exchange.

(3) Prior to due presentment for registration of transfer of any shares of Preferred Stock, the Transfer Agent and the Company may deem and treat the Person in whose name such shares of Preferred Stock are registered as the absolute owner of such Preferred Stock and neither the Transfer Agent nor the Company shall be affected by notice to the contrary.

(4) No service charge shall be made to a Holder for any registration of transfer or exchange upon surrender of any Preferred Stock certificate or Common Stock certificate at the office of the Transfer Agent maintained for that purpose. However, the Company may require payment of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental charge that may be imposed in connection with any registration of transfer or exchange of Preferred Stock certificates or Common Stock certificates.

(5) Upon any sale or transfer of shares of Preferred Stock (including any Preferred Stock represented by a Global Preferred Stock Certificate), Certificated Common Stock pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act or pursuant to Rule 144 or another exemption from registration under the Securities Act (and based upon an Opinion of Counsel reasonably satisfactory to the Company if it so requests) or the issue of Common Stock in payment or partial payment of a dividend on Preferred Stock pursuant to an effective registration statement:

(A) in the case of any Certificated Preferred Stock or Certificated Common Stock, the Company and the Transfer Agent shall permit the holder thereof to exchange such Preferred Stock or Certificated Common Stock for Certificated Preferred Stock or Certificated Common Stock, as the case may be, that does not bear a restrictive legend and rescind any restriction on the transfer of such Preferred Stock or Common Stock issuable in respect of the conversion of the Preferred Stock;

 

29


(B) in the case of any Common Stock issued in payment or partial payment of a dividend on Preferred Stock pursuant to an effective registration statement, the Certificated Common Stock issued in respect thereof shall not bear a restrictive legend; and

(C) in the case of any Global Preferred Stock, such Preferred Stock shall not be required to bear the legend set forth in paragraph (c)(vii) above but shall continue to be subject to the provisions of paragraph (c)(iv) hereof; provided, however, that with respect to any request for an exchange of Preferred Stock that is represented by Global Preferred Stock for Certificated Preferred Stock that does not bear the legend set forth in paragraph (c)(vii) above in connection with a sale or transfer thereof pursuant to Rule 144 or another exemption from registration under the Securities Act (and based upon an Opinion of Counsel if the Company so requests), the Holder thereof shall certify in writing to the Transfer Agent that such request is being made pursuant to such exemption (such certification to be substantially in the form of Exhibit C hereto).

(x) No Obligation of the Transfer Agent.

(1) The Transfer Agent shall have no responsibility or obligation to any beneficial owner of Global Preferred Stock, a member of, or a participant in DTC or any other Person with respect to the accuracy of the records of DTC or its nominee or of any participant or member thereof, with respect to any ownership interest in the Preferred Stock or with respect to the delivery to any participant, member, beneficial owner or other Person (other than DTC) of any notice or the payment of any amount, under or with respect to such Global Preferred Stock. All notices and communications to be given to the Holders and all payments to be made to Holders under the Preferred Stock shall be given or made only to the Holders (which shall be DTC or its nominee in the case of the Global Preferred Stock). The rights of beneficial owners in any Global Preferred Stock shall be exercised only through DTC subject to the applicable rules and procedures of DTC. The Transfer Agent may rely and shall be fully protected in relying upon information furnished by DTC with respect to its members, participants and any beneficial owners.

(2) The Transfer Agent shall have no obligation or duty to monitor, determine or inquire as to compliance with any restrictions on transfer imposed under this Certificate of Designation or under applicable law with respect to any transfer of any interest in any Preferred Stock (including any transfers between or among DTC

 

30


participants, members or beneficial owners in any Global Preferred Stock) other than to require delivery of such certificates and other documentation or evidence as are expressly required by, and to do so if and when expressly required by, the terms of this Certificate of Designation, and to examine the same to determine substantial compliance as to form with the express requirements hereof.

(d) Replacement Certificates. If a mutilated Preferred Stock certificate is surrendered to the Transfer Agent or if the Holder of a Preferred Stock certificate claims that the Preferred Stock certificate has been lost, destroyed or wrongfully taken, the Company shall issue and the Transfer Agent shall countersign a replacement Preferred Stock certificate if the reasonable requirements of the Transfer Agent and of Section 8-405 of the Uniform Commercial Code as in effect in the State of Oklahoma are met. If required by the Transfer Agent or the Company, such Holder shall furnish an indemnity bond sufficient in the judgment of the Company and the Transfer Agent to protect the Company and the Transfer Agent from any loss which either of them may suffer if a Preferred Stock certificate is replaced. The Company and the Transfer Agent may charge the Holder for their expenses in replacing a Preferred Stock certificate.

(e) Temporary Certificates. Until definitive Preferred Stock certificates are ready for delivery, the Company may prepare and the Transfer Agent shall countersign temporary Preferred Stock certificates. Temporary Preferred Stock certificates shall be substantially in the form of definitive Preferred Stock certificates but may have variations that the Company considers appropriate for temporary Preferred Stock certificates. Without unreasonable delay, the Company shall prepare and the Transfer Agent shall countersign definitive Preferred Stock certificates and deliver them in exchange for temporary Preferred Stock certificates.

(f) Cancelation. (i) In the event the Company shall purchase or otherwise acquire Certificated Preferred Stock, the same shall thereupon be delivered to the Transfer Agent for cancelation.

(ii) At such time as all beneficial interests in Global Preferred Stock have either been exchanged for Certificated Preferred Stock, converted, repurchased or canceled, such Global Preferred Stock shall thereupon be delivered to the Transfer Agent for cancelation.

(iii) The Transfer Agent and no one else shall cancel and destroy all Preferred Stock certificates surrendered for transfer, exchange, replacement or cancelation and deliver a certificate of such destruction to the Company unless the Company directs the Transfer Agent to deliver canceled Preferred Stock certificates to the Company. The Company may not issue new Preferred Stock certificates to replace Preferred Stock certificates to the extent they evidence Preferred Stock which the Company has purchased or otherwise acquired.

 

31


12. Additional Rights of Holders. In addition to the rights provided to Holders under this Certificate of Designation, Holders shall have the rights set forth in the Registration Rights Agreement.

13. Other Provisions.

(a) With respect to any notice to a holder of shares of Preferred Stock required to be provided hereunder, neither failure to mail such notice, nor any defect therein or in the mailing thereof, to any particular holder shall affect the sufficiency of the notice or the validity of the proceedings referred to in such notice with respect to the other holders or affect the legality or validity of any distribution, rights, warrant, reclassification, consolidation, merger, conveyance, transfer, dissolution, liquidation or winding-up, or the vote upon any such action. Any notice which was mailed in the manner herein provided shall be conclusively presumed to have been duly given whether or not the holder receives the notice.

(b) Shares of Preferred Stock issued and reacquired will be retired and canceled promptly after reacquisition thereof and, upon compliance with the applicable requirements of Oklahoma law, have the status of authorized but unissued shares of preferred stock of the Company undesignated as to series and may with any and all other authorized but unissued shares of preferred stock of the Company be designated or redesignated and issued or reissued, as the case may be, as part of any series of preferred stock of the Corporation, except that any issuance or reissuance of shares of Preferred Stock must be in compliance with this Certificate of Designation.

(c) The shares of Preferred Stock shall be issuable only in whole shares.

(d) All notice periods referred to herein shall commence on the date of the mailing of the applicable notice.

 

32


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Company has caused this certificate to be signed and attested this 7th day of November, 2005.

 

           

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION

     

By:

 

/s/ Martha A. Burger

       

Martha A. Burger

       

Treasurer & Senior Vice President –

       

Human Resources

Attest:

 

/s/ Jennifer M. Grigsby

     
 

Jennifer M. Grigsby

     
 

Corporate Secretary

     


EXHIBIT A

FORM OF PREFERRED STOCK

FACE OF SECURITY

[THIS SECURITY (OR ITS PREDECESSOR) WAS ORIGINALLY ISSUED IN A TRANSACTION EXEMPT FROM REGISTRATION UNDER THE UNITED STATES SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 (THE “SECURITIES ACT”), AND THIS SECURITY AND ANY SECURITY ISSUABLE UPON CONVERSION HEREOF MAY NOT BE OFFERED, SOLD OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED IN THE ABSENCE OF SUCH REGISTRATION OR AN APPLICABLE EXEMPTION THEREFROM. EACH PURCHASER OF THIS SECURITY IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE SELLER OF THIS SECURITY MAY BE RELYING ON THE EXEMPTION FROM THE PROVISIONS OF SECTION 5 OF THE SECURITIES ACT PROVIDED BY RULE 144A THEREUNDER.

THE HOLDER OF THIS SECURITY AGREES FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE COMPANY THAT (A) THIS SECURITY AND ANY SECURITY ISSUABLE UPON CONVERSION HEREOF MAY BE OFFERED, RESOLD, PLEDGED OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED, ONLY (I) IN THE UNITED STATES TO A PERSON WHO THE SELLER REASONABLY BELIEVES IS A QUALIFIED INSTITUTIONAL BUYER (AS DEFINED IN RULE 144A UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT) IN A TRANSACTION MEETING THE REQUIREMENTS OF RULE 144A, (II) OUTSIDE OF THE UNITED STATES IN AN OFFSHORE TRANSACTION IN ACCORDANCE WITH RULE 904 UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, (III) PURSUANT TO AN EXEMPTION FROM REGISTRATION UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT PROVIDED BY RULE 144 THEREUNDER (IF AVAILABLE) OR (IV) PURSUANT TO AN EFFECTIVE REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, IN EACH OF CASES (I) THROUGH (IV) IN ACCORDANCE WITH ANY APPLICABLE SECURITIES LAWS OF ANY STATE OF THE UNITED STATES, AND (B) THE HOLDER WILL, AND EACH SUBSEQUENT HOLDER IS REQUIRED TO, NOTIFY ANY PURCHASER OF THIS SECURITY FROM IT OF THE RESALE RESTRICTIONS REFERRED TO IN (A) ABOVE. IN ANY CASE, THE HOLDER HEREOF WILL NOT, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, ENGAGE IN ANY HEDGING TRANSACTION WITH REGARD TO THE SECURITIES EXCEPT AS PERMITTED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT.]1

[UNLESS THIS CERTIFICATE IS PRESENTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DEPOSITORY TRUST COMPANY, A NEW YORK CORPORATION (“DTC”), NEW YORK, NEW YORK, TO THE COMPANY OR ITS AGENT FOR REGISTRATION OF TRANSFER, EXCHANGE OR PAYMENT, AND ANY CERTIFICATE ISSUED IS REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF CEDE & CO. OR SUCH OTHER NAME AS IS REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF DTC (AND ANY PAYMENT IS MADE TO CEDE & CO., OR TO SUCH OTHER ENTITY AS IS REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF DTC) ANY TRANSFER,

 

1

Subject to removal upon registration under the Securities Act of 1933 or otherwise when the security shall no longer be a Transfer Restricted Security.

 

A-1


PLEDGE OR OTHER USE HEREOF FOR VALUE OR OTHERWISE BY OR TO ANY PERSON IS WRONGFUL INASMUCH AS THE REGISTERED OWNER HEREOF, CEDE & CO. HAS AN INTEREST HEREIN.]2

[TRANSFERS OF THIS GLOBAL SECURITY SHALL BE LIMITED TO TRANSFERS IN WHOLE, BUT NOT IN PART, TO NOMINEES OF DTC OR TO A SUCCESSOR THEREOF OR SUCH SUCCESSOR’S NOMINEE AND TRANSFERS OF PORTIONS OF THIS GLOBAL SECURITY SHALL BE LIMITED TO TRANSFERS MADE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE RESTRICTIONS SET FORTH IN THE CERTIFICATE OF DESIGNATION REFERRED TO BELOW.]2

IN CONNECTION WITH ANY TRANSFER, THE HOLDER WILL DELIVER TO THE TRANSFER AGENT SUCH CERTIFICATES AND OTHER INFORMATION AS SUCH TRANSFER AGENT MAY REASONABLY REQUIRE TO CONFIRM THAT THE TRANSFER COMPLIES WITH THE FOREGOING RESTRICTIONS.

 

2

Subject to removal if not a global security.

 

A-2


Certificate Number   Number of Shares of
  Convertible Preferred Stock
[            ]  

CUSIP NO.: 165167834

5.00% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock (Series 2005B) (par value $0.01)

(liquidation preference $100 per share of Convertible Preferred Stock)

of

Chesapeake Energy Corporation

Chesapeake Energy Corporation, an Oklahoma corporation (the “Company”), hereby certifies that [                    ] (the “Holder”) is the registered owner of [                    ] fully paid and non-assessable preferred securities of the Company designated the 5.00% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock (Series 2005B) (par value $0.01) (liquidation preference $100 per share of Preferred Stock) (the “Preferred Stock”). The shares of Preferred Stock are transferable on the books and records of the Transfer Agent, in person or by a duly authorized attorney, upon surrender of this certificate duly endorsed and in proper form for transfer. The designations, rights, privileges, restrictions, preferences and other terms and provisions of the Preferred Stock represented hereby are issued and shall in all respects be subject to the provisions of the Certificate of Designation dated November 7, 2005, as the same may be amended from time to time (the “Certificate of Designation”). Capitalized terms used herein but not defined shall have the meaning given them in the Certificate of Designation. The Company will provide a copy of the Certificate of Designation to a Holder without charge upon written request to the Company at its principal place of business.

Reference is hereby made to select provisions of the Preferred Stock set forth on the reverse hereof, and to the Certificate of Designation, which select provisions and the Certificate of Designation shall for all purposes have the same effect as if set forth at this place.

Upon receipt of this certificate, the Holder is bound by the Certificate of Designation and is entitled to the benefits thereunder.

Unless the Transfer Agent’s Certificate of Authentication hereon has been properly executed, these shares of Preferred Stock shall not be entitled to any benefit under the Certificate of Designation or be valid or obligatory for any purpose.

 

A-3


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Company has executed this certificate this     th day of                             .

 

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION

By:

 

 

Name:

 

Title:

 

By:

 

 

Name:

 

Title:

 

 

A-4


TRANSFER AGENT’S CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICATION

These are shares of the Preferred Stock referred to in the within-mentioned Certificate of Designation.

Dated:

 

UMB BANK, N.A., as Transfer Agent,

By:

 

 

 

Authorized Signatory

 

A-5


REVERSE OF SECURITY

Dividends on each share of Preferred Stock shall be payable at a rate per annum set forth in the face hereof or as provided in the Certificate of Designation.

The shares of Preferred Stock shall be convertible into the Company’s Common Stock in the manner and according to the terms set forth in the Certificate of Designation.

The Company will furnish without charge to each holder who so requests the powers, designations, preferences and relative, participating, optional or other special rights of each class of stock and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions of such preferences and/or rights.

 

A-6


ASSIGNMENT

 

FOR VALUE RECEIVED, the undersigned assigns and transfers the shares of Preferred Stock evidenced hereby to:

  

 

 

 

 

(Insert assignee’s social security or tax identification number)

 

 

 

 

(Insert address and zip code of assignee)

 

and irrevocably appoints:

 

 

 

 

 

agent to transfer the shares of Preferred Stock evidenced hereby on the books of the Transfer Agent. The agent may substitute another to act for him or her.

 

Date:

 

 

 

Signature:

 

 

(Sign exactly as your name appears on the other side of this Preferred Stock Certificate)

 

Signature Guarantee:3

 

 

 

3

(Signature must be guaranteed by an “eligible guarantor institution” that is a bank, stockbroker, savings and loan association or credit union meeting the requirements of the Transfer Agent, which requirements include membership or participation in the Securities Transfer Agents Medallion Program (“STAMP”) or such other “signature guarantee program” as may be determined by the Transfer Agent in addition to, or in substitution for, STAMP, all in accordance with the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.)

 

A-7


EXHIBIT B

NOTICE OF CONVERSION

(To be Executed by the Holder

in order to Convert the Preferred Stock)

The undersigned hereby irrevocably elects to convert (the “Conversion”) shares of 5.00% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock (Series 2005B) (the “Preferred Stock”),              represented by stock certificate No(s).              (the “Preferred Stock Certificates”) into shares of common stock (“Common Stock”) of Chesapeake Energy Corporation (the “Company”) according to the conditions of the Certificate of Designation of the Preferred Stock (the “Certificate of Designation”), as of the date written below. If shares are to be issued in the name of a person other than the undersigned, the undersigned will pay all transfer taxes payable with respect thereto and is delivering herewith the Preferred Stock Certificates. No fee will be charged to the holder for any conversion, except for transfer taxes, if any. A copy of each Preferred Stock Certificate is attached hereto (or evidence of loss, theft or destruction thereof).

The undersigned represents and warrants that all offers and sales by the undersigned of the shares of Common Stock issuable to the undersigned upon conversion of the Preferred Stock shall be made pursuant to registration of the Common Stock under the Securities Act of 1933 (the “Act”), or pursuant to any exemption from registration under the Act.

Any holder, upon the exercise of its conversion rights in accordance with the terms of the Certificate of Designation and the Preferred Stock, agrees to be bound by the terms of the Registration Rights Agreement.

Date of Conversion:                                                                                         

Applicable Conversion Price:                                                                         

Number of shares of Preferred Stock to be Converted:                                 

Number of shares of Common Stock to be Issued: *                                     

Signature:                                                                                                         

Name:                                                                                                               

Address:**                                                                                                       

Fax No.:                                                                                                           

 

*

The Company is not required to issue shares of Common Stock until the original Preferred Stock Certificate(s) (or evidence of loss, theft or destruction thereof) to be converted are received

 

B-1


 

by the Company or its Transfer Agent. The Company shall issue and deliver shares of Common Stock to an overnight courier not later than three business days following receipt of the original Preferred Stock Certificate(s) to be converted.

**

Address where shares of Common Stock and any other payments or certificates shall be sent by the Company.

 

B-2


EXHIBIT C

CERTIFICATE TO BE DELIVERED UPON EXCHANGE OR

REGISTRATION OF TRANSFER OF PREFERRED STOCK

 

Re:

5.00% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock (Series 2005B) (the “Preferred Stock”) of Chesapeake Energy Corporation (the “Company”)

This Certificate relates to              shares of Preferred Stock held in ¨*/ book-entry or ¨*/ definitive form by                      (the “Transferor”).

The Transferor*:

 

  ¨

has requested the Transfer Agent by written order to deliver in exchange for its beneficial interest in the Preferred Stock held by the Depository shares of Preferred Stock in definitive, registered form equal to its beneficial interest in such Preferred Stock (or the portion thereof indicated above); or

 

  ¨

has requested the Transfer Agent by written order to exchange or register the transfer of Preferred Stock.

In connection with such request and in respect of such Preferred Stock, the Transferor does hereby certify that the Transferor is familiar with the Certificate of Designation relating to the above-captioned Preferred Stock and that the transfer of this Preferred Stock does not require registration under the Securities Act of 1933 (the “Securities Act”) because */:

 

  ¨

Such Preferred Stock is being acquired for the Transferor’s own account without transfer.

 

  ¨

Such Preferred Stock is being transferred to the Company.

 

  ¨

Such Preferred Stock is being transferred to a qualified institutional buyer (as defined in Rule 144A under the Securities Act), in reliance on Rule 144A.

 

  ¨

Such Preferred Stock is being transferred in reliance on and in compliance with another exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act (and based on an Opinion of Counsel if the Company so requests).

 

 

[INSERT NAME OF TRANSFEROR]

by:

 

 

 

Date:

 

 

 

 

*/

Please check applicable box.

 

C-1


CERTIFICATE OF ELIMINATION

Chesapeake Energy Corporation (the “Corporation”), a corporation organized and existing under the Oklahoma General Corporation Act,

DOES HEREBY CERTIFY:

FIRST: That the Corporation has acquired 1,020,000 shares of its 5.0% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock (Series 2005B), par value $.01 per share (the “Acquired Shares”).

SECOND: That the Board of Directors of the Corporation has adopted resolutions retiring the Acquired Shares.

THIRD: That the Certificate of Designation for the 5.0% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock (Series 2005B) (the “Certificate of Designation”) prohibits the reissuance of shares when so retired and, pursuant to the provisions of Section 1078 of the Oklahoma General Corporation Act, upon the date of the filing of this Certificate of Elimination, the Certificate of Designation shall be amended so as to reduce the number of authorized shares of the 5.0% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock (Series 2005B) by 1,020,000 shares, being the total number of the Acquired Shares retired by the Board of Directors. Accordingly, the number of authorized but undesignated shares of preferred stock of the Company shall be increased by 1,020,000 shares. The retired Acquired Shares have a par value of $.01 per share and an aggregate par value of $10,200.00.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Corporation has caused this Certificate to be executed by its Senior Vice President, Treasurer and Corporate Secretary, and attested to by its Assistant Secretary, this 17th day of April, 2008.

 

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION

By:

 

/s/ Jennifer M. Grigsby

 

Jennifer M. Grigsby

 

Senior Vice President, Treasurer and
Corporate Secretary

 

ATTEST:

/s/ Anita L. Brodrick

Anita L. Brodrick

Assistant Secretary


CERTIFICATE OF ELIMINATION

Chesapeake Energy Corporation (the “Corporation”), a corporation organized and existing under the Oklahoma General Corporation Act,

DOES HEREBY CERTIFY:

FIRST: That the Corporation has acquired 669,300 shares of its 5.0% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock (Series 2005B), par value $.01 per share (the “Acquired Shares”).

SECOND: That the Board of Directors of the Corporation has adopted resolutions retiring the Acquired Shares.

THIRD: That the Certificate of Designation for the 5.0% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock (Series 2005B) (the “Certificate of Designation”) prohibits the reissuance of shares when so retired and, pursuant to the provisions of Section 1078 of the Oklahoma General Corporation Act, upon the date of the filing of this Certificate of Elimination, the Certificate of Designation shall be amended so as to reduce the number of authorized shares of the 5.0% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock (Series 2005B) by 669,300 shares, being the total number of the Acquired Shares retired by the Board of Directors. Accordingly, the number of authorized but undesignated shares of preferred stock of the Company shall be increased by 669,300 shares. The retired Acquired Shares have a par value of $.01 per share and an aggregate par value of $6,693.00.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Corporation has caused this Certificate to be executed by its Senior Vice President, Treasurer and Corporate Secretary, and attested to by its Assistant Secretary, this 12th day of May, 2008.

 

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION

By:

 

/s/ Jennifer M. Grigsby

 

Jennifer M. Grigsby

 

Senior Vice President, Treasurer and
Corporate Secretary

 

ATTEST:

/s/ Anita L. Brodrick

Anita L. Brodrick

Assistant Secretary

EX-12 3 dex12.htm RATIOS OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES AND PREFERRED DIVIDENDS Ratios of Earnings to Fixed Charges and Preferred Dividends

EXHIBIT 12

CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION

RATIOS OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES AND COMBINED FIXED CHARGES AND PREFERRED DIVIDENDS

($ in millions)

 

     Year
Ended
December 31,
2003
   Year
Ended
December 31,
2004
    Year
Ended
December 31,
2005
   Year
Ended
December 31,
2006
    Year
Ended
December 31,
2007
   Three Months
Ended
March 31,
2008
 

EARNINGS:

               

Income (loss) before income taxes and cumulative effect of accounting change

   $ 501    $ 805     $ 1,493    $ 3,255     $ 2,341    $ (214 )

Interest expense (a)

     148      162       221      299       379      95  

(Gain)/loss on investment in equity investees in excess of distributed earnings

     —        (1 )     1      (3 )     21      12  

Amortization of capitalized interest

     3      5       10      19       39      13  

Bond discount amortization (b)

     —        —         —        —         —        —    

Loan cost amortization

     4      6       9      13       17      5  
                                             

Earnings

   $ 656    $ 977     $ 1,734    $ 3,583     $ 2,797    $ (89 )
                                             

FIXED CHARGES:

               

Interest expense

   $ 148    $ 162     $ 221    $ 299     $ 379    $ 95  

Capitalized interest

     13      36       79      179       269      85  

Bond discount amortization (b)

     —        —         —        —         —        —    

Loan cost amortization

     4      6       9      13       17      5  
                                             

Fixed Charges

   $ 165    $ 204     $ 309    $ 491     $ 665    $ 185  
                                             

Preferred Stock Dividends

               

Preferred Dividend Requirements

   $ 22    $ 40     $ 42    $ 89     $ 94    $ 12  

Ratio of income before provision for taxes to net income (c)

     1.61      1.56       1.57      1.62       1.61      1.63  
                                             

Subtotal – Preferred Dividends

   $ 36    $ 62     $ 66    $ 144     $ 151    $ 19  

Combined Fixed Charges and Preferred Dividends

   $ 201    $ 266     $ 375    $ 635     $ 816    $ 204  

Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges

     4.0      4.8       5.6      7.3       4.2      (0.5 )

Insufficient coverage

   $ —      $ —       $ —      $ —       $ —      $ 274  

Ratio of Earnings to Combined Fixed Charges and Preferred Dividends

     3.3      3.7       4.6      5.6       3.4      (0.4 )

Insufficient coverage

   $ —      $ —       $ —      $ —       $ —      $ 293  

 

  (a)

Excludes the effect on unrealized gains or losses on interest rate derivatives.

 

  (b)

Amortization of bond discount is excluded since it is included in interest expense.

 

  (c)

Amounts of income before provision for taxes and of net income exclude the cumulative effect of accounting change.

EX-31.1 4 dex311.htm SECTION 302 CHAIRMAN AND CEO CERTIFICATION Section 302 Chairman and CEO Certification

Exhibit 31.1

CERTIFICATION

I, Aubrey K. McClendon, certify that:

 

  1.

I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Chesapeake Energy Corporation;

 

  2.

Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

 

  3.

Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

 

  4.

The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

 

  (a)

designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

 

  (b)

designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

 

  (c)

evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

 

  (d)

disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

 

  5.

The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

 

  (a)

all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

 

  (b)

any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Date: May 12, 2008

 

/s/ AUBREY K. MCCLENDON

 

Aubrey K. McClendon

 

Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer

EX-31.2 5 dex312.htm SECTION 302 EVP AND CFO CERTIFICATION Section 302 EVP and CFO Certification

Exhibit 31.2

CERTIFICATION

I, Marcus C. Rowland, certify that:

 

  1.

I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Chesapeake Energy Corporation;

 

  2.

Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

 

  3.

Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

 

  4.

The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

 

  (a)

designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

 

  (b)

designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

 

  (c)

evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

 

  (d)

disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

 

  5.

The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

 

  (a)

all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

 

  (b)

any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Date: May 12, 2008

 

/s/ MARCUS C. ROWLAND

 

Marcus C. Rowland

 

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

EX-32.1 6 dex321.htm SECTION 906 CHAIRMAN AND CEO CERTIFICATION Section 906 Chairman and CEO Certification

Exhibit 32.1

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906

OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Quarterly Report of Chesapeake Energy Corporation (the “Company”) on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2008 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Aubrey K. McClendon, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C § 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

 

  1.

The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

 

  2.

The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

 

 

/s/ AUBREY K. MCCLENDON

 

Aubrey K. McClendon

  Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer

Date: May 12, 2008

EX-32.2 7 dex322.htm SECTION 906 EVP AND CFO CERTIFICATION Section 906 EVP and CFO Certification

Exhibit 32.2

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906

OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Quarterly Report of Chesapeake Energy Corporation (the “Company”) on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2008 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Marcus C. Rowland, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C § 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

 

  1.

The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

 

  2.

The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

 

 

/s/ MARCUS C. ROWLAND

 

Marcus C. Rowland

  Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Date: May 12, 2008

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