PERMIAN BASIN ROYALTY TRUST ANNOUNCES RECEIPT OF THE WADDELL RANCH PROPERTIES PROCEEDS

Rhea-AI Summary

Permian Basin Royalty Trust (NYSE: PBT) announced the receipt of $2,247,045 in proceeds from the Waddell Ranch Properties on May 31, 2024. These funds will be included in the June 2024 distribution. Notably, Blackbeard Operating, did not provide production or pricing documentation for the oil or natural gas products, nor details on deductions or expenditures related to the funds. On May 8, 2024, the Trustee filed a lawsuit against Blackbeard in Tarrant County, Texas, seeking over $15 million in damages due to allegedly impermissible overhead costs and other expenses deducted from royalty payments.

Positive

• $2,247,045 received from Waddell Ranch Properties for June 2024 distribution.
• Proceeds will be combined with Texas Royalty Properties for June 17, 2024, announcement.

Negative

• No supporting documentation provided by Blackbeard for production or pricing.
• Trustee filed a lawsuit seeking over $15 million in damages from Blackbeard.
• Allegations of impermissible overhead costs and other expenses deducted from royalty payments.
• Unsuccessful attempts to resolve the disputed charges outside of court.

Insights

Financial Analyst

The receipt of $2,247,045 from the Waddell Ranch Properties is notable for investors of Permian Basin Royalty Trust (PBT). This amount will be included in the June 2024 distribution, which could positively impact shareholder payouts. However, the lack of supporting documentation from Blackbeard raises questions about transparency and accuracy in reporting revenues and expenses.

This issue is significant because it introduces uncertainty regarding the Trust's future distributions. Investors should be cautious and monitor subsequent announcements for more details about the distribution and whether Blackbeard will provide the necessary documentation in the future.

Additionally, the ongoing litigation between the Trustee and Blackbeard over alleged improper expense deductions could have significant financial implications. If resolved in favor of the Trust, it could mean a substantial recovery of funds previously deducted, which would benefit the Trust's financial health and, consequently, the investors. Nevertheless, legal proceedings can be lengthy and uncertain, implying a potential delay in any financial restitution.

Legal Expert

The lawsuit against Blackbeard for allegedly improper overhead costs and other expenses deducted from the Trust's royalty payments is a critical aspect for investors to consider. The Trustee is seeking damages exceeding $15 million, which, if recovered, could significantly bolster the Trust's assets. However, the duration and outcome of legal proceedings are unpredictable and investors should consider the potential for protracted litigation and associated legal costs.

Moreover, the allegations of incorrect overhead charges and other impermissible deductions reflect deeper governance and compliance issues within the operational management of the Waddell Ranch Properties. This situation underscores the importance of rigorous audit controls and transparent financial reporting in safeguarding investors' interests.

Market Research Analyst

From a market perspective, the financial irregularities and the ensuing litigation may affect investor sentiment towards the Trust. The immediate impact of the $2,247,045 proceeds is positive, but the absence of detailed production and pricing information raises red flags about the reliability of future income streams. Market confidence hinges on consistent and transparent financial disclosures.

Over the long term, the resolution of the litigation and the Trust's ability to enforce more stringent operational oversight could restore investor trust. However, the market will likely respond sharply to any news regarding the lawsuit's progress and its financial implications.

DALLAS, June 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Argent Trust Company, as Trustee of the Permian Basin Royalty Trust (NYSE: PBT) ("Permian" or the "Trust") announces that proceeds for the Waddell Ranch Properties in the amount of $2,247,045 were received on May 31, 2024. These proceeds will be included in the June 2024 distribution calculation, together with proceeds from the Texas Royalty Properties, which will be announced on Monday, June 17, 2024.

Contrary to historical practice, Blackbeard Operating, LLC ("Blackbeard"), the operator of the Waddell Ranch Properties, did not provide the Trustee with any supporting documentation regarding production or pricing of the oil or natural gas products, or any information on any deductions from gross proceeds or capital expenditures with the funds transmitted to the Trust.

Trust Litigation. On May 8, 2024, the Trustee announced that it had initiated a lawsuit by filing a petition in the District Court of Tarrant County, Texas against Blackbeard, the operator of properties in the Waddell Ranch, in Crane County, Texas, in which the Trust holds a 75% net overriding royalty.

Pursuant to the petition, the Trustee seeks to recover more than $15 million in damages to the Trust resulting from overhead costs and other expenses the Trustee alleges were impermissibly deducted from royalty payments to the Trust. The Trustee routinely engages in audits of the revenues and expenses with respect to the Trust's royalty payments. In connection with its audit for the period from 2020-2022 the Trustee identified exceptions to certain expenses deducted from the Trust's royalty payments, including among other things, incorrect overhead charges, application of overhead charges to non-producing wells, duplicate charges for services, materials and utilities as well as other expenses the Trustee alleges are ineligible charges. Attempts to resolve the disputed charges outside of court have been unsuccessful to date.

The 2023 Annual Report with Form 10-K, which includes the December 31, 2023, Reserve Summary, is posted on Permian's website. Permian's cash distribution history, current and prior year financial reports, tax information booklets, and a link to filings made with the Securities and Exchange Commission, all can be found on Permian's website at http://www.pbt-permian.com/. Additionally, printed reports can be requested and are mailed free of charge.

Contact: Jana Egeler, Vice President, Argent Trust Company, Trustee, Toll Free – 1.855.588.7839

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/permian-basin-royalty-trust-announces-receipt-of-the-waddell-ranch-properties-proceeds-302162547.html

SOURCE Permian Basin Royalty Trust

FAQ

What amount was received by Permian Basin Royalty Trust from the Waddell Ranch Properties?

Permian Basin Royalty Trust received $2,247,045 from the Waddell Ranch Properties.

When did Permian Basin Royalty Trust receive the proceeds from the Waddell Ranch Properties?

The proceeds were received on May 31, 2024.

What will the proceeds from the Waddell Ranch Properties be used for?

The proceeds will be included in the June 2024 distribution calculation.

Did Blackbeard Operating provide documentation for the Waddell Ranch proceeds?

No, Blackbeard Operating did not provide supporting documentation for the proceeds.

What legal action has Permian Basin Royalty Trust taken against Blackbeard Operating?

The Trust filed a lawsuit seeking over $15 million in damages due to alleged impermissible overhead costs and other expenses.