Ecopetrol - EC STOCK NEWS

Ecopetrol S.A. (NYSE: EC) has adopted the Financial Stability Board's Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) recommendations, enhancing its disclosure policies. The company released its inaugural specialized report for 2020, focusing on climate change risks and opportunities. This report addresses governance, strategy, risk management, and metrics. Ecopetrol is the largest company in Colombia, contributing over 60% to the nation's hydrocarbon production and operating in key international markets like the U.S., Brazil, and Mexico.

Ecopetrol reported impressive financial results for Q2 2021, achieving consolidated revenue of COP 19.4 trillion and net income of COP 3.7 trillion, marking increases of 130.3% and 1,243.8%, respectively, from the previous year. The EBITDA was COP 9.4 trillion with an EBITDA margin of 48.5%. For H1 2021, total revenues reached COP 36.7 trillion, with net income quadrupling from 2020. Enhanced operational efficiency and favorable market conditions supported these results. However, production decreased by 5.3% due to public unrest in Colombia and other challenges.

Ecopetrol S.A. (BVC: EC; NYSE: EC) announced that the Administrative Court of Santander has voided a fine of COP16,068,000 imposed by the Ministry of Labor following a fatal accident involving a contractor. The court ruled that Ecopetrol did not qualify as an employer or supervisor, making the fine inadmissible. This decision reinstates Ecopetrol's rights and nullifies the financial penalty. As the largest company in Colombia, Ecopetrol plays a significant role in the hydrocarbon production sector and operates extensively across Latin America.

Ecopetrol S.A. has submitted a binding offer to acquire a 51.4% stake in Interconexión Eléctrica S.A. (ISA) from Colombia’s Ministry of Finance. The offer was approved by the Board of Directors on July 30, 2021, and submitted the same day. Ecopetrol, a leading integrated oil and gas conglomerate in Latin America, is awaiting the Ministry's response and will inform the market accordingly. This acquisition could strengthen Ecopetrol's position in the energy sector, expanding its influence in regional electricity distribution.

Ecopetrol S.A. announced the approval of a contingent credit line worth US $1.2 billion by Colombia's Ministry of Finance on July 30, 2021. This facility aims to bolster the company's liquidity and support organic growth opportunities, while mitigating risks from fluctuating oil prices. The credit line has a two-year availability for disbursements and will feature competitive borrowing costs. Participating banks include Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria, Banco Santander, JPMorgan Chase, and others. The move reflects strong confidence from the financial sector in Ecopetrol’s business strategy.

Ecopetrol S.A. (NYSE: EC) filed an opposition on July 28, 2021, against a preliminary injunctive relief sought in a public action concerning the potential sale of the Nation's ownership in ISA. The action, filed by Fundación Dilo Colombia, aims to halt the sale, asserting that it violates collective rights. Ecopetrol argues that the claim lacks legal basis and adheres to Colombian legislation, which allows the sale and maximizes benefits for the Nation and the company. Ecopetrol will defend the legality of the ISA transaction throughout the judicial process.

Ecopetrol S.A. will release its financial and operational results for Q2 2021 on August 3, 2021, after market close. This announcement marks a significant event for investors as they await key metrics affecting the company's performance. Following the release, the management will host two conference calls on August 4—one in Spanish and one in English—to discuss the results. The company, a major player in the oil and gas sector in Latin America, accounts for over 60% of Colombia's hydrocarbon production, highlighting its market significance.

Ecopetrol S.A. (NYSE: EC) reported a recovery in operations across its upstream, midstream, downstream, and sales segments following public order disruptions in Colombia. June production increased to 686 mboed, while quarterly production averaged 661 mboed, down 2% from Q1. Midstream saw transportation of refined products rise to 258 mbd, but crude transport fell to 686 mbd, a decrease due to reduced production. Diesel, gasoline, and jet fuel demand surged in June, reflecting a rebound. Adjustments to annual operational goals are still under evaluation.

Ecopetrol S.A. (NYSE: EC) announced a rating downgrade by Fitch Ratings, aligning with Colombia's sovereign downgrade. The company's foreign and local currency Issuer Default Ratings were lowered to BB+ from BBB-, with a Stable Outlook. Ecopetrol's stand-alone rating remains at bbb. The company is Colombia's largest, accounting for over 60% of the country's hydrocarbon production, and has significant interests in North American oil basins. The downgrade reflects broader economic conditions and potential impacts on Ecopetrol’s financial stability and growth prospects.