EX-99.2 3 a03312024q1mda.htm EX-99.2 Document





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CANADIAN NATURAL RESOURCES LIMITED














 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2024
MAY 1, 2024


MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
ADVISORY
Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements relating to Canadian Natural Resources Limited (the "Company") in this document or documents incorporated herein by reference constitute forward-looking statements or information (collectively referred to herein as "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the words "believe", "anticipate", "expect", "plan", "estimate", "target", "continue", "could", "intend", "may", "potential", "predict", "should", "will", "objective", "project", "forecast", "goal", "guidance", "outlook", "effort", "seeks", "schedule", "proposed", "aspiration" or expressions of a similar nature suggesting future outcome or statements regarding an outlook. Disclosure related to the Company's capital budget, expected future commodity pricing, forecast or anticipated production volumes, royalties, production expenses, capital expenditures, abandonment expenditures, income tax expenses, and other targets provided throughout this Management's Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A") of the financial condition and results of operations of the Company, constitute forward-looking statements. Disclosure of plans relating to and expected results of existing and future developments, including, without limitation, those in relation to: the Company's assets at Horizon Oil Sands ("Horizon"), the Athabasca Oil Sands Project ("AOSP"), the Primrose thermal oil projects, the Pelican Lake water and polymer flood projects, the Kirby thermal oil sands project, the Jackfish thermal oil sands project and the North West Redwater bitumen upgrader and refinery; construction by third parties of new, or expansion of existing, pipeline capacity or other means of transportation of bitumen, crude oil, natural gas, natural gas liquids ("NGLs") or synthetic crude oil ("SCO") that the Company may be reliant upon to transport its products to market; the abandonment and decommissioning of certain assets and the timing thereof; the development and deployment of technology and technological innovations; the financial capacity of the Company to complete its growth projects and responsibly and sustainably grow in the long-term; and the impact of the Pathways Alliance ("Pathways") initiative and activities, government support for Pathways and the ability to achieve net zero emissions from oil sands production, also constitute forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on annual budgets and multi-year forecasts, and are reviewed and revised throughout the year as necessary in the context of targeted financial ratios, project returns, product pricing expectations and balance in project risk and time horizons. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to certain risks. The reader should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements as there can be no assurances that the plans, initiatives or expectations upon which they are based will occur. In addition, statements relating to "reserves" are deemed to be forward-looking statements as they involve the implied assessment based on certain estimates and assumptions that the reserves described can be profitably produced in the future. There are numerous uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of proved and proved plus probable crude oil, natural gas and NGLs reserves and in projecting future rates of production and the timing of development expenditures. The total amount or timing of actual future production may vary significantly from reserves and production estimates.
The forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about the Company and the industry in which the Company operates, which speak only as of the earlier of the date such statements were made or as of the date of the report or document in which they are contained, and are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, among others: general economic and business conditions (including as a result of the actions of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries Plus ("OPEC+"), the impact of armed conflicts in the Middle East, the impact of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, increased inflation, and the risk of decreased economic activity resulting from a global recession) which may impact, among other things, demand and supply for and market prices of the Company's products, and the availability and cost of resources required by the Company's operations; volatility of and assumptions regarding crude oil, natural gas and NGLs prices; fluctuations in currency and interest rates; assumptions on which the Company's current targets are based; economic conditions in the countries and regions in which the Company conducts business; political uncertainty, including actions of or against terrorists, insurgent groups or other conflict including conflict between states; the ability of the Company to prevent and recover from a cyberattack, other cyber-related crime and other cyber-related incidents; industry capacity; ability of the Company to implement its business strategy, including exploration and development activities; the Company's ability to implement strategies and leverage technologies to meet climate change initiatives and emissions targets on the expected timelines; the impact of competition; the Company's defense of lawsuits; availability and cost of seismic, drilling and other equipment; ability of the Company to complete capital programs; the Company's ability to secure adequate transportation for its products; unexpected disruptions or delays in the mining, extracting or upgrading of the Company's bitumen products; potential delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures; ability of the Company to attract the necessary labour required to build, maintain, and operate its thermal and oil sands mining projects; operating hazards and other difficulties inherent in the exploration for and production and sale of crude oil and natural gas and in the mining, extracting or upgrading the Company's bitumen products; availability and cost of financing; the Company's success of exploration and development activities and its ability to replace and expand crude oil and natural gas reserves; the Company's ability to meet its targeted production levels; timing and success of integrating the business and operations of acquired companies and assets; production levels; imprecision of reserves estimates and estimates of recoverable quantities of crude oil, natural gas and NGLs not currently classified as proved; actions by governmental authorities; government regulations and the expenditures required to comply with them (especially safety and environmental laws and regulations and the impact of climate change initiatives on capital expenditures and production expenses); interpretations of
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
1
Three months ended March 31, 2024


applicable tax laws and regulations; asset retirement obligations; the sufficiency of the Company's liquidity to support its growth strategy and to sustain its operations in the short, medium, and long-term; the strength of the Company's balance sheet; the flexibility of the Company's capital structure; the adequacy of the Company's provision for taxes; the impact of legal proceedings to which the Company is party; and other circumstances affecting revenues and expenses.
The Company's operations have been, and in the future may be, affected by political developments and by national, federal, provincial, state and local laws and regulations such as restrictions on production, changes in taxes, royalties and other amounts payable to governments or governmental agencies, price or gathering rate controls and environmental protection regulations. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should any of the Company's assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary in material respects from those projected in the forward-looking statements. The impact of any one factor on a particular forward-looking statement is not determinable with certainty as such factors are dependent upon other factors, and the Company's course of action would depend upon its assessment of the future considering all information then available.
Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. Unpredictable or unknown factors not discussed in this MD&A could also have adverse effects on forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that the expectations conveyed by the forward-looking statements are reasonable based on information available to it on the date such forward-looking statements are made, no assurances can be given as to future results, levels of activity and achievements. All subsequent forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, attributable to the Company or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. Except as required by applicable law, the Company assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements in this MD&A, whether as a result of new information, future events or other factors, or the foregoing factors affecting this information, should circumstances or the Company's estimates or opinions change.
Special Note Regarding Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures
This MD&A includes references to non-GAAP measures, which include non-GAAP and other financial measures as defined in National Instrument 52-112 – Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Disclosure ("NI 52-112"). Non-GAAP measures are used by the Company to evaluate its financial performance, financial position or cash flow. Descriptions of the Company's non-GAAP and other financial measures included in this MD&A, and reconciliations to the most directly comparable GAAP measure, as applicable, are provided in the "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section of this MD&A.
Special Note Regarding Currency, Financial Information and Production
This MD&A should be read in conjunction with the Company's unaudited interim consolidated financial statements (the "financial statements") for the three months ended March 31, 2024, and the Company's MD&A and audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2023. All dollar amounts are referenced in millions of Canadian dollars, except where noted otherwise. The Company's financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and this MD&A have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS") as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board ("IASB").
Production volumes and per unit statistics are presented throughout this MD&A on a "before royalties" or "company gross" basis, and realized prices are net of blending and feedstock costs and exclude the effect of risk management activities. In addition, reference is made to crude oil and natural gas in common units called barrel of oil equivalent ("BOE"). A BOE is derived by converting six thousand cubic feet ("Mcf") of natural gas to one barrel ("bbl") of crude oil (6 Mcf: 1 bbl). This conversion may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation, since the 6 Mcf: 1 bbl ratio is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. In comparing the value ratio using current crude oil prices relative to natural gas prices, the 6 Mcf: 1 bbl conversion ratio may be misleading as an indication of value. In addition, for the purposes of this MD&A, crude oil is defined to include the following commodities: light and medium crude oil, primary heavy crude oil, Pelican Lake heavy crude oil, bitumen (thermal oil), and SCO. Production on an "after royalties" or "company net" basis is also presented for information purposes only.
The following discussion and analysis refers primarily to the Company's financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2024 in relation to the first quarter of 2023 and the fourth quarter of 2023. The accompanying tables form an integral part of this MD&A. Additional information relating to the Company, including its Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2023, is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca, and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. Information on the Company's website does not form part of and is not incorporated by reference in this MD&A. This MD&A is dated May 1, 2024.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
2
Three months ended March 31, 2024


FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Three Months Ended
($ millions, except per common share amounts)Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Product sales (1)
$9,422 $10,679 $9,548 
Crude oil and NGLs$8,676 $9,829 $8,412 
Natural gas$529 $603 $851 
Net earnings$987 $2,627 $1,799 
Per common share– basic$0.92 $2.43 $1.63 
                                       – diluted$0.91 $2.41 $1.62 
Adjusted net earnings from operations (2)
$1,474 $2,546 $1,881 
Per common share
– basic (3)
$1.38 $2.36 $1.71 
                                       
– diluted (3)
$1.37 $2.34 $1.69 
Cash flows from operating activities$2,868 $4,815 $1,295 
Adjusted funds flow (2)
$3,138 $4,419 $3,429 
Per common share
– basic (3)
$2.93 $4.09 $3.12 
                                       
– diluted (3)
$2.91 $4.05 $3.08 
Cash flows used in investing activities$1,392 $946 $1,153 
Net capital expenditures (4)
$1,113 $975 $1,257 
Abandonment expenditures$162 $149 $137 
(1)Further details related to product sales are disclosed in note 17 to the financial statements.
(2)Non-GAAP Financial Measure. Refer to the "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section of this MD&A.
(3)Non-GAAP Ratio. Refer to the "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section of this MD&A.
(4)Non-GAAP Financial Measure. The composition of this measure was updated in the fourth quarter of 2023 and has been updated for all periods presented. Refer to the "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section of this MD&A.
SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Consolidated Net Earnings and Adjusted Net Earnings from Operations
Net earnings for the first quarter of 2024 were $987 million compared with $1,799 million for the first quarter of 2023 and $2,627 million for the fourth quarter of 2023. Net earnings for the first quarter of 2024 included non-operating losses, net of tax, of $487 million compared with non-operating losses of $82 million for the first quarter of 2023 and non-operating income of $81 million for the fourth quarter of 2023 related to the effects of share-based compensation, risk management activities, fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, the (gain) loss from investments, and a recoverability charge in the fourth quarter of 2023 relating to the increase in estimate of future abandonment costs for the planned decommissioning activities at the Ninian field in the North Sea. Excluding these items, adjusted net earnings from operations for the first quarter of 2024 were $1,474 million compared with $1,881 million for the first quarter of 2023 and $2,546 million for the fourth quarter of 2023.
The decrease in net earnings and adjusted net earnings from operations for the first quarter of 2024 from the first quarter of 2023 primarily reflected:
lower realized SCO sales pricing (1) in the Oil Sands Mining and Upgrading segment; and
lower realized natural gas pricing in the North America Exploration and Production segment;
partially offset by:
higher crude oil and NGLs sales volumes and netbacks (1) in the North America Exploration and Production segment.
(1)Non-GAAP Ratio. Refer to the "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section of this MD&A.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
3
Three months ended March 31, 2024


The decrease in net earnings and adjusted net earnings from operations for the first quarter of 2024 from the fourth quarter of 2023 primarily reflected:
lower SCO sales volumes in the Oil Sands Mining and Upgrading segment;
lower realized SCO sales pricing in the Oil Sands Mining and Upgrading segment;
lower crude oil and NGLs sales volumes and netbacks in the North America Exploration and Production segment; and
lower natural gas netbacks in the North America Exploration and Production segment.
The impacts of share-based compensation, risk management activities, fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, and the (gain) loss from investment also contributed to the movements in net earnings. These items are discussed in detail in the relevant sections of this MD&A.
Cash Flows from Operating Activities and Adjusted Funds Flow
Cash flows from operating activities for the first quarter of 2024 were $2,868 million compared with $1,295 million for the first quarter of 2023 and $4,815 million for the fourth quarter of 2023. The fluctuations in cash flows from operating activities from the comparable periods were primarily due to the factors previously noted related to the fluctuations in adjusted net earnings from operations, together with the impact of net changes in non-cash working capital.
Adjusted funds flow for the first quarter of 2024 was $3,138 million compared with $3,429 million for the first quarter of 2023 and $4,419 million for the fourth quarter of 2023. The fluctuations in adjusted funds flow from the comparable periods were primarily due to the factors noted above related to the fluctuations in cash flows from operating activities, excluding the impact of the net change in non-cash working capital, abandonment expenditures, and movements in other long-term assets, including the unamortized cost of the share bonus program, accrued interest on the deferred Petroleum Revenue Tax ("PRT") recovery, and prepaid cost of service tolls.
Production Volumes
Crude oil and NGLs production before royalties for the first quarter of 2024 of 975,668 bbl/d was comparable with 962,908 bbl/d for the first quarter of 2023, and decreased 7% from 1,047,541 bbl/d for the fourth quarter of 2023. Natural gas production before royalties for the first quarter of 2024 of 2,147 MMcf/d was comparable with 2,139 MMcf/d for the first quarter of 2023, and decreased 4% from 2,231 MMcf/d for the fourth quarter of 2023. Total production before royalties for the first quarter of 2024 of 1,333,502 BOE/d was comparable with 1,319,391 BOE/d for the first quarter of 2023, and decreased 6% from 1,419,313 BOE/d for the fourth quarter of 2023. Crude oil and NGLs and natural gas production volumes are discussed in detail in the "Daily Production, before royalties" section of this MD&A.
Product Prices
In the Company's Exploration and Production segments, realized crude oil and NGLs prices (1) averaged $70.01 per bbl for the first quarter of 2024, an increase of 19% from $58.85 per bbl for the first quarter of 2023, and comparable with $69.39 per bbl for the fourth quarter of 2023. The realized natural gas price decreased 40% to average $2.55 per Mcf for the first quarter of 2024 from $4.27 per Mcf for the first quarter of 2023, and decreased 9% from $2.80 per Mcf for the fourth quarter of 2023. In the Oil Sands Mining and Upgrading segment, the Company's realized SCO sales price decreased 8% to average $88.84 per bbl for the first quarter of 2024 from $96.07 per bbl for the first quarter of 2023, and decreased 10% from $98.73 per bbl for the fourth quarter of 2023. The Company's realized pricing reflected prevailing benchmark pricing. Crude oil and NGLs and natural gas prices are discussed in detail in the "Business Environment", "Realized Product Prices – Exploration and Production", and the "Oil Sands Mining and Upgrading" sections of this MD&A.
(1)Non-GAAP Ratio. Refer to the "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section of this MD&A.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
4
Three months ended March 31, 2024


Production Expense
In the Company's Exploration and Production segments, crude oil and NGLs production expense (1) averaged $16.66 per bbl for the first quarter of 2024, comparable with $16.93 per bbl for the first quarter of 2023, and an increase of 11% from $15.05 per bbl for the fourth quarter of 2023. Natural gas production expense (1) averaged $1.30 per Mcf for the first quarter of 2024, a decrease of 12% from $1.47 per Mcf for the first quarter of 2023, and an increase of 15% from $1.13 per Mcf for the fourth quarter of 2023. In the Oil Sands Mining and Upgrading segment, production expense (1) averaged $24.85 per bbl for the first quarter of 2024, comparable with $25.06 per bbl for the first quarter of 2023, and an increase of 19% from $20.96 per bbl for the fourth quarter of 2023. Crude oil and NGLs and natural gas production expense is discussed in detail in the "Production Expense – Exploration and Production" and the "Oil Sands Mining and Upgrading" sections of this MD&A.
SUMMARY OF QUARTERLY FINANCIAL RESULTS
The following is a summary of the Company's quarterly financial results for the eight most recently completed quarters:
($ millions, except per common share amounts)Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Sep 30
2023
Jun 30
2023
Product sales (1)
$9,422 $10,679 $11,762 $8,846 
Crude oil and NGLs$8,676 $9,829 $10,944 $8,115 
Natural gas$529 $603 $599 $522 
Net earnings $987 $2,627 $2,344 $1,463 
Net earnings per common share
– basic$0.92 $2.43 $2.15 $1.34 
– diluted$0.91 $2.41 $2.13 $1.32 
($ millions, except per common share amounts)Mar 31
2023
Dec 31
2022
Sep 30
2022
Jun 30
2022
Product sales (1)
$9,548 $11,012 $12,574 $13,812 
Crude oil and NGLs$8,412 $9,508 $11,001 $11,727 
Natural gas$851 $1,287 $1,342 $1,605 
Net earnings$1,799 $1,520 $2,814 $3,502 
Net earnings per common share
– basic$1.63 $1.37 $2.52 $3.04 
– diluted$1.62 $1.36 $2.49 $3.00 
(1)Further details related to product sales for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 are disclosed in note 17 to the financial statements.
Volatility in the quarterly net earnings over the eight most recently completed quarters was primarily due to:
Crude oil pricing – Fluctuations in global supply/demand including crude oil production levels from OPEC+ and its impact on world supply, the impact of geopolitical and market uncertainties (including those due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and conflict in the Middle East) on worldwide benchmark pricing, the impact of shale oil production in North America, the impact of the Western Canadian Select ("WCS") Heavy Differential from the West Texas Intermediate reference location at Cushing, Oklahoma ("WTI") in North America, and the impact of the differential between WTI and Dated Brent ("Brent") benchmark pricing in the International segments.
Natural gas pricing – Fluctuations in both the demand for natural gas and inventory storage levels, third-party pipeline maintenance and outages, the impact of geopolitical and market uncertainties, the impact of seasonal conditions, and the impact of shale gas production in the US.
Crude oil and NGLs sales volumes – Fluctuations in production from the Kirby and Jackfish thermal oil sands projects, fluctuations in production due to the cyclic nature of the Primrose thermal oil projects, fluctuations in the Company's drilling program in the North America Exploration and Production segment, natural decline rates, the impact of turnarounds and pitstops in the Oil Sands Mining and Upgrading segment, and wildfires and a third-party pipeline outage in 2023 in the North America Exploration and Production segment. Sales volumes also reflected fluctuations due to timing of liftings and maintenance activities in the International segments.
(1)Calculated as respective production expense divided by respective sales volumes.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
5
Three months ended March 31, 2024


Natural gas sales volumes – Fluctuations in production due to the Company's drilling program in the North America Exploration and Production segment, natural decline rates, the impact of seasonal conditions, wildfires and a third-party pipeline outage in 2023 in the North America Exploration and Production segment.
Production expense – Fluctuations primarily due to the impacts of the demand and cost for services, fluctuations in product mix and production volumes, seasonal conditions, increased carbon tax, fluctuating energy costs, inflationary cost pressures, cost optimizations across all segments, turnarounds and pitstops in the Oil Sands Mining and Upgrading segment, and maintenance activities in the International segments.
Depletion, depreciation and amortization expense – Fluctuations due to changes in sales volumes, proved reserves, asset retirement obligations, finding and development costs associated with crude oil and natural gas exploration, estimated future costs to develop the Company's proved undeveloped reserves, fluctuations in International sales volumes subject to higher depletion rates, the impact of turnarounds and pitstops in the Oil Sands Mining and Upgrading segment, a recoverability charge at December 31, 2023 relating to the increase in estimate of future abandonment costs for the planned decommissioning activities at the Ninian field in the North Sea, and a recoverability charge at December 31, 2022 relating to the de-booking of reserves at the Ninian field in the North Sea.
Share-based compensation – Fluctuations due to the measurement of fair market value of the Company's share-based compensation liability.
Risk management – Fluctuations due to the recognition of gains and losses from the mark-to-market and subsequent settlement of the Company's risk management activities.
Interest expense – Fluctuations due to changing long-term debt levels, and the impact of movements in benchmark interest rates on outstanding floating rate long-term debt and accrued interest on the deferred PRT recovery.
Foreign exchange – Fluctuations in the Canadian dollar relative to the US dollar, which impact the realized price the Company receives for its crude oil and natural gas sales, as sales prices are based predominantly on US dollar denominated benchmarks. Realized and unrealized foreign exchange gains and losses are also recorded with respect to US dollar denominated debt, partially offset by the impact of any cross currency swap hedges outstanding.
(Gain) loss from investment – Fluctuations due to the (gain) loss from the investment in PrairieSky Royalty Ltd. shares.
BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT
Risks and Uncertainties
Global crude oil benchmark pricing for the first quarter of 2024 remained relatively flat compared to 2023 as weaker demand growth outlooks were offset by increased geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, combined with continued supply quota management by OPEC+. Although inflationary pressures are easing, the Company has experienced and may continue to experience inflationary pressures on its operating and capital expenditures in addition to higher than normal fluctuations in commodity prices and interest rates.
Liquidity
As at March 31, 2024, the Company had undrawn revolving bank credit facilities of $5,450 million. Including cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments, the Company had approximately $6,817 million in liquidity (1). The Company also has certain other dedicated credit facilities supporting letters of credit.
The Company remains committed to maintaining a strong balance sheet, adequate available liquidity and a flexible capital structure. Refer to the "Liquidity and Capital Resources" section of this MD&A for further details.
(1)Non-GAAP Financial Measure. Refer to the "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section of this MD&A.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
6
Three months ended March 31, 2024


Benchmark Commodity Prices
Three Months Ended

(Average for the period)
Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
WTI benchmark price (US$/bbl)$76.97 $78.33 $76.11 
Dated Brent benchmark price (US$/bbl)$83.23 $84.06 $81.24 
WCS Heavy Differential from WTI (US$/bbl)$19.34 $21.90 $24.74 
SCO price (US$/bbl)
$69.43 $78.64 $78.18 
Condensate benchmark price (US$/bbl)$72.79 $76.22 $79.83 
NYMEX benchmark price (US$/MMBtu)$2.24 $2.87 $3.43 
AECO benchmark price (C$/GJ)$1.94 $2.52 $4.12 
US/Canadian dollar average exchange rate (US$)
$0.7415 $0.7341 $0.7393 
Substantially all of the Company's production is sold based on US dollar benchmark pricing. Specifically, crude oil is marketed based on WTI and Brent indices. Canadian natural gas pricing is primarily based on AECO reference pricing, which is derived from the NYMEX reference pricing and adjusted for its basis or location differential to the NYMEX delivery point at Henry Hub. The Company’s realized prices are directly impacted by fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. Product revenue continued to be impacted by changes in the Canadian dollar as the Canadian dollar sales price the Company received for its crude oil and natural gas sales is based on US dollar denominated benchmarks.
Crude oil sales contracts in North America are typically based on WTI benchmark pricing. WTI averaged US$76.97 per bbl for the first quarter of 2024, comparable with US$76.11 per bbl for the first quarter of 2023, and US$78.33 per bbl for the fourth quarter of 2023.
Crude oil sales contracts for the Company's International segments are typically based on Brent pricing, which is representative of international markets and overall global supply and demand. Brent averaged US$83.23 per bbl for the first quarter of 2024, comparable with US$81.24 per bbl for the first quarter of 2023, and US$84.06 per bbl for the fourth quarter of 2023.
WTI and Brent benchmark pricing was relatively flat for the first quarter of 2024 from the comparable periods in 2023, as OPEC+ continued to manage its supply quota. Weaker demand growth outlooks in the first quarter of 2024 were offset by shipping disruptions in the Red Sea and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
The WCS Heavy Differential averaged US$19.34 per bbl for the first quarter of 2024, compared with US$24.74 per bbl for the first quarter of 2023, and US$21.90 per bbl for the fourth quarter of 2023. The narrowing of the WCS Heavy Differential for the first quarter of 2024 from the first quarter of 2023 primarily reflected stronger US Gulf Coast heavy oil pricing due to lower Mexican imports, partially offset by egress constraints in the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin ("WCSB"). The narrowing of the WCS Heavy Differential for the first quarter of 2024 from the fourth quarter of 2023 primarily reflected the anticipated startup of the Trans Mountain Expansion ("TMX") pipeline, partially offset by unplanned refinery outages in the US Midwest.
The SCO price averaged US$69.43 per bbl for the first quarter of 2024, a decrease of 11% from US$78.18 per bbl for the first quarter of 2023, and a decrease of 12% from US$78.64 per bbl for the fourth quarter of 2023. The decrease in SCO pricing for the first quarter of 2024 from the comparable periods in 2023 primarily reflected the weakening of the SCO differential from WTI, reflecting strong production levels and egress constraints in the WCSB.
NYMEX natural gas prices averaged US$2.24 per MMBtu for the first quarter of 2024, a decrease of 35% from US$3.43 per MMBtu for the first quarter of 2023, and a decrease of 22% from US$2.87 per MMBtu for the fourth quarter of 2023. The decrease in NYMEX natural gas prices for first quarter of 2024 from the comparable periods in 2023 primarily reflected mild winter weather that reduced heating demand and drove North American and European inventory levels above the five year average. Additionally, reduced Liquefied Natural Gas ("LNG") exports from the US Gulf Coast, as a result of maintenance, also contributed to downward pressure on prices.
AECO natural gas prices averaged $1.94 per GJ for the first quarter of 2024, a decrease of 53% from $4.12 per GJ for the first quarter of 2023, and a decrease of 23% from $2.52 per GJ for the fourth quarter of 2023. The decrease in AECO natural gas prices for first quarter of 2024 from the comparable periods in 2023 primarily reflected decreased NYMEX benchmark pricing, increased production in the WCSB, and higher storage inventories resulting from mild winter weather in 2024.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
7
Three months ended March 31, 2024


DAILY PRODUCTION, before royalties
Three Months Ended
 Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Crude oil and NGLs (bbl/d)
   
North America – Exploration and Production505,636 521,579 477,349 
North America – Oil Sands Mining and Upgrading (1)
445,209 500,133 458,228 
International – Exploration and Production
North Sea
12,433 12,616 13,240 
Offshore Africa
12,390 13,213 14,091 
Total International (2)
24,823 25,829 27,331 
Total Crude oil and NGLs975,668 1,047,541 962,908 
Natural gas (MMcf/d) (3)
   
North America2,135 2,218 2,127 
International
North Sea
1 
Offshore Africa
11 11 
Total International12 13 12 
Total Natural gas2,147 2,231 2,139 
Total Barrels of oil equivalent (BOE/d)1,333,502 1,419,313 1,319,391 
Product mix   
Light and medium crude oil and NGLs
11%10%10%
Pelican Lake heavy crude oil3%3%4%
Primary heavy crude oil6%6%6%
Bitumen (thermal oil)20%20%18%
Synthetic crude oil (1)
33%35%35%
Natural gas27%26%27%
Percentage of product sales (1) (4) (5)
   
Crude oil and NGLs94%94%90%
Natural gas6%6%10%
(1)SCO production before royalties excludes SCO consumed internally as diesel.
(2)"International" includes North Sea and Offshore Africa Exploration and Production segments in all instances used in this MD&A.
(3)Natural gas production volumes approximate sales volumes.
(4)Net of blending and feedstock costs and excluding risk management activities.
(5)Excluding Midstream and Refining revenue.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
8
Three months ended March 31, 2024


DAILY PRODUCTION, net of royalties
Three Months Ended
 Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Crude oil and NGLs (bbl/d)
   
North America – Exploration and Production413,752 431,091 396,482 
North America – Oil Sands Mining and Upgrading (1)
370,837 443,535 411,434 
International – Exploration and Production
North Sea12,406 12,590 13,240 
Offshore Africa11,755 11,917 12,740 
Total International24,161 24,507 25,980 
Total Crude oil and NGLs808,750 899,133 833,896 
Natural gas (MMcf/d)
   
North America2,049 2,148 1,988 
International
North Sea1 
Offshore Africa11 11 
Total International12 13 12 
Total Natural gas2,061 2,161 2,000 
Total Barrels of oil equivalent (BOE/d)1,152,258 1,259,297 1,167,300 
(1)SCO production net of royalties excludes SCO consumed internally as diesel.
The Company's business approach is to maintain large project inventories and production diversification among each of the commodities it produces; namely light and medium crude oil and NGLs, primary heavy crude oil, Pelican Lake heavy crude oil, bitumen (thermal oil), SCO, and natural gas.
Crude oil and NGLs production for the first quarter of 2024 averaged 975,668 bbl/d, comparable with 962,908 bbl/d for the first quarter of 2023, and a decrease of 7% from 1,047,541 bbl/d for the fourth quarter of 2023. The decrease in crude oil and NGLs production before royalties for the first quarter of 2024 from the fourth quarter of 2023 primarily reflected lower production in the Oil Sands Mining and Upgrading segment due to planned and unplanned maintenance in the first quarter of 2024, including the advancement of turnaround activities at the non-operated Scotford Upgrader ("Scotford") from April into March. The decrease for the first quarter of 2024 from the fourth quarter of 2023 also reflected lower thermal in situ production due to the cyclical nature of steaming at Primrose in the North America Exploration and Production segment.
Annual crude oil and NGLs production for 2024 is targeted to average between 977,000 bbl/d and 1,008,000 bbl/d. Production targets constitute forward-looking statements. Refer to the "Advisory" section of this MD&A for further details on forward-looking statements.
Natural gas production for the first quarter of 2024 averaged 2,147 MMcf/d, comparable with 2,139 MMcf/d for the first quarter of 2023, and a decrease of 4% from 2,231 MMcf/d for the fourth quarter of 2023. The decrease in natural gas production for the first quarter of 2024 from the fourth quarter of 2023 primarily reflected natural field declines and the impact of seasonality, partially offset by the execution of the planned drilling program.
Annual natural gas production for 2024 is targeted to average between 2,120 MMcf/d and 2,230 MMcf/d. Production targets constitute forward-looking statements. Refer to the "Advisory" section of this MD&A for further details on forward-looking statements.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
9
Three months ended March 31, 2024


North America – Exploration and Production
North America crude oil and NGLs production for the first quarter of 2024 of 505,636 bbl/d increased 6% from 477,349 bbl/d for the first quarter of 2023, and decreased 3% from 521,579 bbl/d for the fourth quarter of 2023. The increase in North America crude oil and NGLs production for the first quarter of 2024 from the first quarter of 2023 primarily reflected pad additions in thermal in situ during the second half of 2023, partially offset by natural field declines. The decrease for the first quarter of 2024 from the fourth quarter of 2023 primarily reflected lower thermal in situ production due to the cyclical nature of steaming at Primrose, and natural field declines in conventional exploration and production, partially offset by the execution of the planned drilling program.
The Company's thermal in situ assets continued to demonstrate long life, low decline production before royalties, averaging 268,155 bbl/d for the first quarter of 2024, an increase of 10% from 242,884 bbl/d for the first quarter of 2023, and a decrease of 4% from 278,422 bbl/d for the fourth quarter of 2023. The increase in thermal in situ production in the first quarter of 2024 from the first quarter of 2023 primarily reflected pad additions in the second half of 2023. The decrease in thermal in situ production in the first quarter of 2024 from the fourth quarter of 2023 primarily reflected the cyclical nature of steaming at Primrose.
Pelican Lake heavy crude oil production before royalties for the first quarter of 2024 averaged 45,145 bbl/d, a decrease of 6% from 48,244 bbl/d for the first quarter of 2023, and comparable with 46,046 bbl/d for the fourth quarter of 2023, demonstrating Pelican Lake's long life low decline production.
North America natural gas production for the first quarter of 2024 averaged 2,135 MMcf/d, comparable with 2,127 MMcf/d for the first quarter of 2023, and a decrease of 4% from 2,218 MMcf/d for the fourth quarter of 2023. The decrease in North America natural gas production for the first quarter of 2024 from the fourth quarter of 2023 primarily reflected natural field declines and the impact of seasonality, partially offset by the execution of the planned drilling program.
North America – Oil Sands Mining and Upgrading
SCO production for the first quarter of 2024 averaged 445,209 bbl/d, comparable with 458,228 bbl/d for the first quarter of 2023, and a decrease of 11% from 500,133 bbl/d for the fourth quarter of 2023. The decrease for the first quarter of 2024 from the fourth quarter of 2023 primarily reflected planned and unplanned maintenance in the first quarter of 2024, including the advancement of turnaround activities at Scotford from April into March.
International – Exploration and Production
International crude oil and NGLs production for the first quarter of 2024 averaged 24,823 bbl/d, a decrease of 9% from 27,331 bbl/d for the first quarter of 2023, and a decrease of 4% from 25,829 bbl/d for the fourth quarter of 2023. The decrease in International crude oil and NGLs production for the first quarter of 2024 from the comparable periods in 2023 primarily reflected natural field declines, combined with the impact of maintenance activities in all periods presented.
International Crude Oil Inventory Volumes
The Company recognizes revenue on its crude oil production when control of the product passes to the customer and delivery has taken place. Revenue has not been recognized in the International segments on crude oil volumes held in various storage facilities or FPSOs, as follows:
(bbl)Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
International833,654 515,543 1,912,388 
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
10
Three months ended March 31, 2024


OPERATING HIGHLIGHTS – EXPLORATION AND PRODUCTION
Three Months Ended
 Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Crude oil and NGLs ($/bbl) (1)
   
Realized price (2)
$70.01 $69.39 $58.85 
Transportation (2)
4.63 3.83 4.52 
Realized price, net of transportation (2)
65.38 65.56 54.33 
Royalties (3)
12.09 11.38 10.09 
Production expense (4)
16.66 15.05 16.93 
Netback (2)
$36.63 $39.13 $27.31 
Natural gas ($/Mcf) (1)
   
Realized price (5)
$2.55 $2.80 $4.27 
Transportation (6)
0.64 0.54 0.55 
Realized price, net of transportation
1.91 2.26 3.72 
Royalties (3)
0.10 0.09 0.28 
Production expense (4)
1.30 1.13 1.47 
Netback
$0.51 $1.04 $1.97 
Barrels of oil equivalent ($/BOE) (1)
   
Realized price (2)
$47.60 $48.41 $44.98 
Transportation (2)
4.31 3.61 4.03 
Realized price, net of transportation (2)
43.29 44.80 40.95 
Royalties (3)
7.39 7.05 6.56 
Production expense (4)
13.03 11.75 13.51 
Netback (2)
$22.87 $26.00 $20.88 
(1)For crude oil and NGLs and BOE sales volumes, refer to the "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section of this MD&A. For natural gas sales volumes, refer to the "Daily Production, before royalties" section of this MD&A.
(2)Non-GAAP Ratio. Refer to the "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section of this MD&A.
(3)Calculated as royalties divided by respective sales volumes.
(4)Calculated as production expense divided by respective sales volumes.
(5)Calculated as natural gas sales divided by natural gas sales volumes.
(6)Calculated as natural gas transportation expense divided by natural gas sales volumes.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
11
Three months ended March 31, 2024


REALIZED PRODUCT PRICES – EXPLORATION AND PRODUCTION
Three Months Ended
 Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Crude oil and NGLs ($/bbl) (1)
   
North America (2)
$68.14 $66.69 $57.99 
International average (3)
$112.94 $112.22 $98.60 
North Sea (3)
$113.75 $118.50 $— 
Offshore Africa (3)
$111.59 $107.88 $98.60 
Crude oil and NGLs average (2)
$70.01 $69.39 $58.85 
Natural gas ($/Mcf) (1) (3)
   
North America$2.50 $2.75 $4.22 
International average$12.13 $12.15 $13.76 
North Sea$11.48 $9.66 $11.81 
Offshore Africa$12.22 $12.51 $14.28 
Natural gas average $2.55 $2.80 $4.27 
Average ($/BOE) (1) (2)
$47.60 $48.41 $44.98 
(1)For crude oil and NGLs and BOE sales volumes, refer to the "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section of this MD&A. For natural gas sales volumes, refer to the "Daily Production, before royalties" section of this MD&A.
(2)Non-GAAP Ratio. Refer to the "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section of this MD&A.
(3)Calculated as crude oil and NGLs sales and natural gas sales divided by respective sales volumes.
North America
North America realized crude oil and NGLs prices averaged $68.14 per bbl for the first quarter of 2024, an increase of 18% from $57.99 per bbl for the first quarter of 2023, and comparable with $66.69 per bbl for the fourth quarter of 2023. The increase for the first quarter of 2024 from the first quarter of 2023 primarily reflected the narrowing of the WCS Heavy Differential, combined with higher sales volumes to the US Gulf Coast, subject to higher realized pricing. The Company continues to focus on its crude oil blending marketing strategy and in the first quarter of 2024 contributed approximately 233,000 bbl/d of heavy crude oil blends to the WCS stream.
North America realized natural gas prices decreased 41% to average $2.50 per Mcf for the first quarter of 2024 from $4.22 per Mcf for the first quarter of 2023, and decreased 9% from $2.75 per Mcf for the fourth quarter of 2023. The decrease in North America realized natural gas prices for first quarter of 2024 from the comparable periods in 2023 primarily reflected lower AECO benchmark and export pricing.
Comparisons of the prices received in North America Exploration and Production by product type were as follows:
Three Months Ended
(Quarterly average)Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Wellhead Price (1)
   
Light and medium crude oil and NGLs ($/bbl)$66.68 $69.42 $73.26 
Pelican Lake heavy crude oil ($/bbl)$74.69 $73.47 $67.57 
Primary heavy crude oil ($/bbl)$74.37 $72.90 $60.31 
Bitumen (thermal oil) ($/bbl)$65.83 $62.64 $48.60 
Natural gas ($/Mcf)$2.50 $2.75 $4.22 
(1)Amounts expressed on a per unit basis are based on sales volumes of the respective product type.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
12
Three months ended March 31, 2024


International
International realized crude oil and NGLs prices increased 15% to average $112.94 per bbl for the first quarter of 2024 from $98.60 per bbl for the first quarter of 2023, and were comparable with $112.22 per bbl for the fourth quarter of 2023. Realized crude oil and NGLs prices per bbl in any particular period are dependent on the terms of the various sales contracts, the frequency and timing of liftings from each field, and prevailing crude oil prices and foreign exchange rates at the time of lifting. The fluctuations in realized crude oil and NGLs prices for the first quarter of 2024 from the comparable periods reflected prevailing Brent benchmark pricing at the time of liftings, together with the impact of movements in the Canadian dollar.
ROYALTIES – EXPLORATION AND PRODUCTION
Three Months Ended
 Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Crude oil and NGLs ($/bbl) (1)
   
North America$12.52 $11.72 $10.10 
International average$2.29 $5.83 $9.46 
North Sea$0.24 $0.24 $— 
Offshore Africa$5.72 $10.58 $9.46 
Crude oil and NGLs average$12.09 $11.38 $10.09 
Natural gas ($/Mcf) (1)
   
North America$0.10 $0.09 $0.27 
Offshore Africa$0.56 $0.59 $0.69 
Natural gas average$0.10 $0.09 $0.28 
Average ($/BOE) (1)
$7.39 $7.05 $6.56 
(1)Calculated as royalties divided by respective sales volumes. For crude oil and NGLs and BOE sales volumes, refer to the "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section of this MD&A. For natural gas sales volumes, refer to the "Daily Production, before royalties" section of this MD&A.
North America
North America crude oil and NGLs and natural gas royalties for the first quarter of 2024 and the comparable periods reflected movements in benchmark commodity prices, fluctuations in the WCS Heavy Differential and the impact of sliding scale royalty rates.
Crude oil and NGLs royalty rates (1) averaged approximately 18% of product sales for the first quarter of 2024 compared with 17% for the first quarter of 2023, and 18% for the fourth quarter of 2023 reflecting prevailing benchmark pricing and fluctuations in the WCS differential.
Natural gas royalty rates averaged approximately 4% of product sales for the first quarter of 2024 compared with 6% for the first quarter of 2023, and 3% for the fourth quarter of 2023. The fluctuations in royalty rates for the first quarter of 2024 from the comparable periods in 2023 primarily reflected fluctuating benchmark prices.
Offshore Africa
Under the terms of the various Production Sharing Contracts, royalty rates fluctuate based on realized commodity pricing, capital expenditures and production expenses, the status of payouts, and the timing of liftings from each field.
Royalty rates as a percentage of product sales averaged approximately 5% for the first quarter of 2024 compared with 9% of product sales for the first quarter of 2023, and 9% for the fourth quarter of 2023. Royalty rates as a percentage of product sales reflected the timing of liftings and the status of payout in the various fields.
(1)Non-GAAP Ratio. Refer to the "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section of this MD&A
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
13
Three months ended March 31, 2024


PRODUCTION EXPENSE – EXPLORATION AND PRODUCTION
Three Months Ended
 Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Crude oil and NGLs ($/bbl) (1)
   
North America$14.72 $12.56 $16.82 
International average$61.32 $54.95 $21.90 
North Sea$85.58 $92.28 $— 
Offshore Africa$20.70 $23.25 $21.90 
Crude oil and NGLs average$16.66 $15.05 $16.93 
Natural gas ($/Mcf) (1)
   
North America$1.27 $1.09 $1.43 
International average$5.71 $8.76 $8.08 
North Sea$8.66 $9.52 $10.80 
Offshore Africa$5.33 $8.65 $7.35 
Natural gas average$1.30 $1.13 $1.47 
Average ($/BOE) (1)
$13.03 $11.75 $13.51 
(1)Calculated as production expense divided by respective sales volumes. For crude oil and NGLs and BOE sales volumes, refer to the "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section of this MD&A. For natural gas sales volumes, refer to the "Daily Production, before royalties" section of this MD&A.
North America
North America crude oil and NGLs production expense for the first quarter of 2024 of $14.72 per bbl decreased 12% from $16.82 per bbl for the first quarter of 2023, and increased 17% from $12.56 per bbl for the fourth quarter of 2023. The decrease in crude oil and NGLs production expense per bbl for the first quarter of 2024 from the first quarter of 2023 primarily reflected lower energy costs and higher production volumes. The increase in crude oil and NGLs production expense per bbl for the first quarter of 2024 from the fourth quarter of 2023 primarily reflected higher energy and service costs, combined with lower production volumes.
North America natural gas production expense for the first quarter of 2024 averaged $1.27 per Mcf, a decrease of 11% from $1.43 per Mcf for the first quarter of 2023, and an increase of 17% from $1.09 per Mcf for the fourth quarter of 2023. The decrease in natural gas production expense per Mcf for the first quarter of 2024 from the first quarter of 2023 primarily reflected lower energy and service costs. The increase for the first quarter of 2024 from the fourth quarter of 2023 primarily reflected higher service costs and the impact of seasonality.
International
International crude oil and NGLs production expense for the first quarter of 2024 of $61.32 per bbl increased from $21.90 per bbl for the first quarter of 2023 as there were no crude oil liftings in the North Sea during the first quarter of 2023. Production expense increased 12% from $54.95 per bbl for the fourth quarter of 2023, primarily reflecting the timing of liftings from various fields. Fluctuations in production expense per bbl also included the impact of foreign exchange.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
14
Three months ended March 31, 2024


ADJUSTED DEPLETION, DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION – EXPLORATION AND PRODUCTION
Three Months Ended
($ millions, except per BOE amounts)Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
North America$941 $971 $890 
North Sea17 466 
Offshore Africa47 66 35 
Depletion, depreciation and amortization$1,005 $1,503 $926 
Less: Recoverability charge (1)
 436 — 
Adjusted depletion, depreciation and amortization (2)
$1,005 $1,067 $926 
$/BOE (3)
$12.64 $12.46 $12.14 
(1)As at December 31, 2023, as a result of revised project scope and the current cost environment, the Company recognized a recoverability charge of $436 million in depletion, depreciation and amortization expense related to an increase in its estimate of future abandonment costs for the Ninian field in the North Sea.
(2)This is a non-GAAP measure used to calculate depletion, depreciation and amortization, less the impact of charges that are not related to current period normal course depletion, depreciation and amortization expense such as asset recoverability charges that are not related to current period production. It may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies, and should not be considered an alternative to or more meaningful than the most directly comparable financial measure presented in the financial statements (depletion, depreciation and amortization expense), as applicable, as an indication of the Company's performance.
(3)Calculated as adjusted depletion, depreciation and amortization expense divided by sales volumes. For sales volumes, refer to the "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section of this MD&A.
Adjusted depletion, depreciation and amortization expense for the first quarter of 2024 averaged $12.64 per BOE, an increase of 4% from $12.14 per BOE for the first quarter of 2023, and comparable with $12.46 per BOE for the fourth quarter of 2023. The increase in adjusted depletion, depreciation and amortization expense for the first quarter of 2024 from the first quarter of 2023 primarily reflected the impact of changes in North America depletion rates due to changes in reserve estimates at December 31, 2023.
Adjusted depletion, depreciation and amortization expense on an absolute and per BOE basis also reflects the impact of the timing of liftings from each field in the North Sea and Offshore Africa.
ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATION ACCRETION – EXPLORATION AND PRODUCTION
Three Months Ended
($ millions, except per BOE amounts)Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
North America$58 $58 $59 
North Sea16 12 11 
Offshore Africa2 
Asset retirement obligation accretion $76 $72 $72 
$/BOE (1)
$0.95 $0.84 $0.94 
(1)Calculated as asset retirement obligation accretion divided by sales volumes. For sales volumes, refer to the "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section of this MD&A.
Asset retirement obligation accretion expense represents the increase in the carrying amount of the asset retirement obligation due to the passage of time.
Asset retirement obligation accretion expense for the first quarter of 2024 averaged $0.95 per BOE, comparable with $0.94 per BOE for the first quarter of 2023, and an increase of 13% from $0.84 per BOE for the fourth quarter of 2023. The increase in asset retirement obligation accretion expense per BOE for the first quarter of 2024 from the fourth quarter of 2023 reflected the increase in the Company's estimate for future abandonment costs for the Ninian field in the North Sea at December 31, 2023, combined with lower sales volumes.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
15
Three months ended March 31, 2024


OPERATING HIGHLIGHTS – OIL SANDS MINING AND UPGRADING
The Company continues to focus on safe, reliable, and efficient operations leveraging its technical expertise across the Horizon and AOSP sites with SCO production averaging 445,209 bbl/d in the first quarter of 2024, primarily reflecting planned and unplanned maintenance in the first quarter of 2024, including the advancement of turnaround activities at Scotford from April into March.
The Company targets strong performance in the Oil Sands Mining and Upgrading segment for the remainder of 2024, including the targeted reduction in the duration of the planned turnaround at Horizon commencing in May 2024 and the optimization of commissioning activities for the reliability enhancement project.
The Company incurred production expense of $1,026 million for the first quarter of 2024, comparable with $1,042 million for the first quarter of 2023, and an increase of 8% from $947 million for the fourth quarter of 2023. The increase in production expense for the first quarter of 2024 from the fourth quarter of 2023 primarily reflected increased maintenance costs in the first quarter of 2024. The Company continues to focus on cost control and driving efficiencies across the entire asset base.
REALIZED PRODUCT PRICES, ROYALTIES AND TRANSPORTATION – OIL SANDS MINING AND UPGRADING
Three Months Ended
($/bbl) Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Realized SCO sales price (1)
$88.84 $98.73 $96.07 
Bitumen value for royalty purposes (2)
$63.51 $61.73 $47.73 
Bitumen royalties (3)
$14.28 $11.57 $10.04 
Transportation (1)
$1.67 $1.85 $1.52 
(1)Non-GAAP Ratio. Refer to the "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section of this MD&A.
(2)Calculated as the quarterly average of the bitumen methodology price.
(3)Calculated as royalties divided by sales volumes.
The realized SCO sales price averaged $88.84 per bbl for the first quarter of 2024, a decrease of 8% from $96.07 per bbl for the first quarter of 2023, and a decrease of 10% from $98.73 per bbl for the fourth quarter of 2023. The decrease in realized SCO sales price for the first quarter of 2024 from the comparable periods in 2023 primarily reflected the weakening in the SCO differential from WTI due to strong production levels and egress constraints in the WCSB.
The increase in bitumen royalties per bbl for the first quarter of 2024 from the first quarter of 2023 primarily reflected higher prevailing bitumen pricing for royalty purposes, combined with the impact of sliding scale royalty rates. The increase for the first quarter of 2024 from the fourth quarter of 2023 primarily reflected the impact of sliding scale royalty rates.
Transportation expense averaged $1.67 per bbl for the first quarter of 2024, an increase of 10% from $1.52 per bbl for the first quarter of 2023, and a decrease of 10% from $1.85 per bbl for the fourth quarter of 2023. The increase in transportation expense per bbl for first quarter of 2024 from the first quarter of 2023 primarily reflected higher sales volumes to the US Gulf Coast in the first quarter of 2024. The decrease for the first quarter of 2024 from the fourth quarter of 2023 primarily reflected lower sales volumes to the US Gulf Coast.
PRODUCTION EXPENSE – OIL SANDS MINING AND UPGRADING
Three Months Ended
($ millions)Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Production expense, excluding natural gas costs$976 $904 $971 
Natural gas costs50 43 71 
Production expense$1,026 $947 $1,042 
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
16
Three months ended March 31, 2024


Three Months Ended
($/bbl)
Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Production expense, excluding natural gas costs (1)
$23.64 $20.00 $23.35 
Natural gas costs (2)
1.21 0.96 1.71 
Production expense (3)
$24.85 $20.96 $25.06 
Sales volumes (bbl/d)453,794 491,339 462,021 
(1)Calculated as production expense, excluding natural gas costs divided by sales volumes.
(2)Calculated as natural gas costs divided by sales volumes.
(3)Calculated as production expense divided by sales volumes.
Production expense for the first quarter of 2024 averaged $24.85 per bbl, comparable with $25.06 per bbl for the first quarter of 2023, and an increase of 19% from $20.96 per bbl for the fourth quarter of 2023. The increase in production expense per bbl for the first quarter of 2024 from the fourth quarter of 2023 primarily reflected higher maintenance costs in the first quarter of 2024, combined with lower production volumes, due to planned and unplanned maintenance in the first quarter of 2024, including the advancement of turnaround activities at Scotford from April into March.
DEPLETION, DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION – OIL SANDS MINING AND UPGRADING
Three Months Ended
($ millions, except per bbl amounts)Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Depletion, depreciation and amortization$524 $554 $488 
$/bbl (1)
$12.70 $12.25 $11.74 
(1)Calculated as depletion, depreciation and amortization divided by sales volumes.
Depletion, depreciation and amortization expense for the first quarter of 2024 of $12.70 per bbl increased 8% from $11.74 per bbl for the first quarter of 2023, and increased 4% from $12.25 per bbl for the fourth quarter of 2023. The increase in depletion, depreciation and amortization expense per bbl for the first quarter of 2024 from the comparable periods in 2023 primarily reflected the impact of a higher depletable base due to asset additions, including those assets subject to straight-line depreciation. The increase for the first quarter of 2024 from the fourth quarter of 2023 also reflected lower sales volumes in the first quarter of 2024.
ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATION ACCRETION – OIL SANDS MINING AND UPGRADING
Three Months Ended
($ millions, except per bbl amounts)Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Asset retirement obligation accretion$21 $19 $20 
$/bbl (1)
$0.51 $0.43 $0.47 
(1)Calculated as asset retirement obligation accretion divided by sales volumes.
Asset retirement obligation accretion expense represents the increase in the carrying amount of the asset retirement obligation due to the passage of time.
Asset retirement obligation accretion expense for the first quarter of 2024 of $0.51 per bbl increased 9% from $0.47 per bbl for the first quarter of 2023, and increased 19% from $0.43 per bbl for the fourth quarter of 2023. The increase in asset retirement obligation accretion expense per bbl for the first quarter of 2024 from the comparable periods in 2023 primarily reflected the impact of changes in cost and timing estimates, partially offset by discount rate estimate revisions at December 31, 2023. The increase in asset retirement obligation accretion expense per bbl for the first quarter of 2024 from the fourth quarter of 2023 also reflected the impact of lower sales volumes in the first quarter of 2024.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
17
Three months ended March 31, 2024


MIDSTREAM AND REFINING
Three Months Ended
($ millions)Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Product sales
Midstream activities$20 $20 $21 
NWRP, refined product sales and other214 236 250 
Segmented revenue234 256 271 
Less:
NWRP, refining toll74 82 70 
Midstream activities5 
Production expense79 89 78 
NWRP, transportation and feedstock costs158 166 153 
Depreciation4 
Segmented (loss) earnings$(7)$(3)$36 
The Company's Midstream and Refining assets consist of two crude oil pipeline systems, a 50% working interest in an 84-megawatt cogeneration plant at Primrose and the Company's 50% equity investment in North West Redwater Partnership ("NWRP").
NWRP operates a 50,000 bbl/d bitumen upgrader and refinery that processes approximately 12,500 bbl/d (25% toll payer) of bitumen feedstock for the Company and 37,500 bbl/d (75% toll payer) of bitumen feedstock for the Alberta Petroleum Marketing Commission ("APMC"), an agent of the Government of Alberta. The Company is unconditionally obligated to pay its 25% pro rata share of the debt component of the monthly fee-for-service toll over the 40-year tolling period until 2058. Sales of diesel and refined products and associated refining tolls are recognized in the Midstream and Refining segment. For the first quarter of 2024, production of ultra-low sulphur diesel and other refined products averaged 78,569 BOE/d (19,642 BOE/d to the Company), (three months ended December 31, 2023 – 83,294, BOE/d; 20,824 BOE/d to the Company; three months ended March 31, 2023 – 85,376 BOE/d; 21,344 BOE/d to the Company), reflecting the 25% toll payer commitment.
As at March 31, 2024, the Company's cumulative unrecognized share of the equity loss and partnership distributions from NWRP was $551 million (December 31, 2023 – $555 million). For the three months ended March 31, 2024, the Company's recovery of its share of unrecognized equity losses was $4 million (three months ended March 31, 2023 – unrecognized equity loss of $16 million).
ADMINISTRATION EXPENSE
Three Months Ended
($ millions, except per BOE amounts)Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Administration expense$126 $119 $106 
$/BOE (1)
$1.04 $0.91 $0.90 
Sales volumes (BOE/d) (2)
1,327,762 1,422,198 1,309,942 
(1)Calculated as administration expense divided by sales volumes.
(2)Total Company sales volumes.
Administration expense for the first quarter of 2024 of $1.04 per BOE increased 16% from $0.90 per BOE for the first quarter of 2023, and increased 14% from $0.91 per BOE for the fourth quarter of 2023. The increase in administration expense per BOE for the first quarter of 2024 from the first quarter of 2023 primarily reflected higher personnel and corporate costs. The increase in administration expense per BOE for the first quarter of 2024 from the fourth quarter of 2023 primarily reflected higher personnel costs combined with lower sales volumes, partially offset by higher overhead recoveries.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
18
Three months ended March 31, 2024


SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
Three Months Ended
($ millions)Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Stock-based compensation expense$294 $57 $66 
The Company's Stock Option Plan provides employees with the right to receive common shares or a cash payment in exchange for stock options surrendered. The Performance Share Unit ("PSU") plan provides certain executive employees of the Company with the right to receive a cash payment; the amount of which is determined with reference to the value of the Company's shares, and by individual employee performance and the extent to which certain other performance measures are met.
The Company recognized $294 million of share-based compensation expense for the three months ended March 31, 2024, primarily as a result of the measurement of the fair value of outstanding stock options related to the impact of normal course graded vesting of stock options granted in prior periods, the impact of vested stock options exercised or surrendered during the period, and changes in the Company's share price.
INTEREST AND OTHER FINANCING EXPENSE
Three Months Ended
($ millions, except effective interest rate)Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Interest and other financing expense$138 $117 $154 
Less: Interest income and other (1)
22 53 
Interest expense on long-term debt and lease liabilities (1)
$160 $170 $163 
Average current and long-term debt (2)
$11,595 $12,350 $12,343 
Average lease liabilities (2)
1,542 1,484 1,516 
Average long-term debt and lease liabilities (2)
$13,137 $13,834 $13,859 
Average effective interest rate (3) (4)
4.8%4.8%4.6%
Interest and other financing expense per $/BOE (5)
$1.15 $0.90 $1.30 
Sales volumes (BOE/d) (6)
1,327,762 1,422,198 1,309,942 
(1)Item is a component of interest and other financing expense.
(2)The average of current and long-term debt and lease liabilities outstanding during the respective period.
(3)This is a non-GAAP ratio and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies, and should not be considered an alternative to or more meaningful than the most directly comparable financial measure presented in the financial statements, as applicable, as an indication of the Company's performance.
(4)Calculated as the average interest expense on long-term debt and lease liabilities divided by the average long-term debt and lease liabilities balance. The Company presents its average effective interest rate for financial statement users to evaluate the Company’s average cost of debt borrowings.
(5)Calculated as interest and other financing expense divided by sales volumes.
(6)Total Company sales volumes.
Interest and other financing expense per BOE for the first quarter of 2024 decreased 12% to $1.15 per BOE from $1.30 per BOE for the first quarter of 2023, and increased 28% from $0.90 per BOE for the fourth quarter of 2023. The decrease in interest and other financing expense per BOE for the first quarter of 2024 from the first quarter of 2023 reflected lower average debt levels in 2024, combined with higher interest income in the first quarter of 2024. The increase in interest and other financing expense per BOE for the first quarter of 2024 from the fourth quarter of 2023 primarily reflected the impact of accrued interest on the PRT recovery in the fourth quarter of 2023, and lower sales volumes in the first quarter of 2024.
The Company's average effective interest rate for the first quarter of 2024 of 4.8% increased from 4.6% for the first quarter of 2023, primarily reflecting higher prevailing interest rates on floating rate long-term debt held during the first quarter of 2024.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
19
Three months ended March 31, 2024


RISK MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES
The Company utilizes various derivative financial instruments to manage its commodity price, interest rate and foreign currency exposures. These derivative financial instruments are not intended for trading or speculative purposes.
Three Months Ended
($ millions)Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Foreign currency contracts$26 $(15)$(2)
Natural gas financial instruments (1) (2)
(1)(2)
Net realized loss (gain)25 (17)
Foreign currency contracts9 (16)
Natural gas financial instruments (1) (2)
4 17 
Net unrealized loss (gain)13 (7)20 
Net loss (gain)$38 $(24)$21 
(1)Certain commodity financial instruments were assumed in the acquisition of Storm Resources Ltd. and Painted Pony Energy Ltd. in the fourth quarter of 2021 and 2020, respectively.
(2)In the fourth quarter of 2023, the Company entered into 50,000 MMBtu/d of US$1.82 AECO fixed price financial hedge contracts for the period of January to December 2024.
During the first quarter of 2024 net realized risk management losses were related to the settlement of foreign currency contracts. The Company recorded a net unrealized loss of $13 million ($12 million after tax of $1 million) on its risk management activities for the three months ended March 31, 2024 (three months ended December 31, 2023 – unrealized gain of $7 million, ($9 million after tax of $2 million); three months ended March 31, 2023 – unrealized loss of $20 million, ($16 million after tax of $4 million)).
Further details related to outstanding derivative financial instruments as at March 31, 2024 are disclosed in note 15 to the financial statements.
FOREIGN EXCHANGE
Three Months Ended
($ millions)Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Net realized (gain) loss$(19)$11 $(11)
Net unrealized loss (gain)269 (276)(3)
Net loss (gain) (1)
$250 $(265)$(14)
(1)Amounts are reported net of the hedging effect of cross currency swaps.
The net realized foreign exchange gain for the first quarter of 2024 was primarily due to foreign exchange rate fluctuations on settlement of working capital items denominated in US dollars or UK pounds sterling. The net unrealized foreign exchange loss for the first quarter of 2024 was primarily related to the translation of outstanding US dollar debt. The US/Canadian dollar exchange rate as at March 31, 2024 was US$0.7390 (December 31, 2023 – US$0.7573, March 31, 2023 – US$0.7392).
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
20
Three months ended March 31, 2024


INCOME TAXES
Three Months Ended
($ millions, except effective tax rates)Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
North America (1)
$412 $487 $480 
North Sea(5)
Offshore Africa5 20 10 
Current PRT – North Sea
(14)(13)(40)
Other taxes3 
Current income tax 401 505 459 
Deferred corporate income tax14 64 23 
Deferred PRT – North Sea
6 (238)
Deferred income tax 20 (174)30 
Income tax $421 $331 $489 
Earnings before taxes$1,408 $2,958 $2,288 
Effective tax rate on net earnings (2)
30%11%21%
Three Months Ended
($ millions, except effective tax rates)Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Income tax $421 $331 $489 
Tax effect on non-operating items (3)
14 331 
Current PRT – North Sea14 13 40 
Deferred PRT – North Sea(6)33 (7)
Other taxes(3)(8)(3)
Effective tax on adjusted net earnings$440 $700 $527 
Adjusted net earnings from operations (4)
$1,474 $2,546 $1,881 
Adjusted net earnings from operations, before taxes
$1,914 $3,246 $2,408 
Effective tax rate on adjusted net earnings from operations (5) (6)
23%22%22%
(1)Includes North America Exploration and Production, Oil Sands Mining and Upgrading, and Midstream and Refining segments.
(2)Calculated as total of current and deferred income tax divided by earnings before taxes.
(3)Includes the net income tax effect on PSUs, certain stock options, unrealized risk management, and deferred PRT and income tax recoveries related to the recoverability charge recognized in 2023.
(4)Non-GAAP Financial Measure. Refer to the "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section of this MD&A.
(5)This is a non-GAAP ratio and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies, and should not be considered an alternative to or more meaningful than the most directly comparable financial measure presented in the financial statements, as applicable, as an indication of the Company's performance.
(6)Calculated as effective tax on adjusted net earnings divided by adjusted net earnings from operations, before taxes. The Company presents its effective tax rate on adjusted net earnings from operations for financial statement users to evaluate the Company's effective tax rate on its core business activities.
The effective tax rate on net earnings and adjusted net earnings from operations for the first quarter of 2024 and the comparable periods included the impact of non-taxable items in North America and the North Sea and the impact of differences in jurisdictional income and tax rates in the countries in which the Company operates, in relation to net earnings.
The current and deferred corporate income tax and the current and deferred PRT in the North Sea for the first quarter of 2024 and the comparable periods included the impact of carrybacks of abandonment expenditures related to the decommissioning activities at the Company's platforms in the North Sea.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
21
Three months ended March 31, 2024


The Company files income tax returns in the various jurisdictions in which it operates. These tax returns are subject to periodic examinations in the normal course by the applicable tax authorities. The tax returns as prepared may include filing positions that could be subject to differing interpretations of applicable tax laws and regulations, which may take several years to resolve. The Company does not believe the ultimate resolution of these matters will have a material impact upon the Company's reported results of operations, financial position or liquidity.
NET CAPITAL EXPENDITURES (1) (2)
Three Months Ended
($ millions)
Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Exploration and Production
Exploration and Evaluation Assets
Net expenditures
$69 $12 $28 
Total Exploration and Evaluation Assets
69 12 28 
Property, Plant and Equipment
   
Net property dispositions
(3)(1)— 
Well drilling, completion and equipping
413 274 510 
Production and related facilities
255 251 361 
Other
12 13 11 
Total Property, Plant and Equipment
677 537 882 
Total Exploration and Production
746 549 910 
Oil Sands Mining and Upgrading
   
Project costs
62 78 52 
Sustaining capital
281 320 261 
Turnaround costs
11 17 22 
Net property dispositions
(2)(1)— 
Other
1 
Total Oil Sands Mining and Upgrading
353 415 336 
Midstream and Refining
4 
Head office
10 
Net capital expenditures$1,113 $975 $1,257 
Abandonment expenditures$162 $149 $137 
By Segment
   
North America
$701 $479 $884 
North Sea
4 11 
Offshore Africa
41 59 23 
Oil Sands Mining and Upgrading
353 415 336 
Midstream and Refining
4 
Head office
10 
Net capital expenditures
$1,113 $975 $1,257 
(1)Net capital expenditures exclude the impact of lease assets, fair value and revaluation adjustments, and include non-cash transfers of property, plant and equipment to inventory due to change in use.
(2)Non-GAAP Financial Measure. The composition of this measure has been updated for all periods presented. Refer to the "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section of this MD&A.
The Company's strategy is focused on building a diversified asset base that is balanced among various products. In order to facilitate efficient operations, the Company concentrates its activities in core areas. The Company focuses on maintaining its land inventories to enable the continuous exploitation of play types and geological trends, greatly reducing overall exploration risk. By owning associated infrastructure the Company is able to maximize utilization of its production facilities, thereby increasing control over production expenses.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
22
Three months ended March 31, 2024


Net capital expenditures were $1,113 million for the first quarter of 2024, compared with $1,257 million for the first quarter of 2023 and $975 million for the fourth quarter of 2023.
In addition, the Company reported abandonment expenditures of $162 million for the first quarter of 2024, compared with $137 million for the first quarter of 2023, and $149 million for the fourth quarter of 2023.
2024 Capital Budget
On December 14, 2023, the Company announced its 2024 capital budget targeted at approximately $5,420 million, and targeting to provide near-term production growth in 2024 and mid- and long-term production and capacity growth in 2025 and beyond. Production for 2024 is targeted between 1,330,000 BOE/d and 1,380,000 BOE/d. In addition, the Company targets $635 million in abandonment expenditures for 2024.
The 2024 capital budget constitutes forward-looking statements. Refer to the "Advisory" section of this MD&A for further details on forward-looking statements.
Drilling Activity (1) (2)
Three Months Ended
(number of net wells)
Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Net successful crude oil wells (3)
61 42 83 
Net successful natural gas wells
16 21 
Dry wells
 — 
Total
77 51 106 
Success rate
100%100%98%
(1)Includes drilling activity for North America and International segments.
(2)Excludes stratigraphic and service wells.
(3)Includes bitumen wells.
North America
During the first quarter of 2024, the Company drilled 16 net natural gas wells, 26 net primary heavy crude oil wells, 23 net bitumen (thermal oil) wells and 12 net light crude oil wells.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
($ millions, except ratios)
Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Adjusted working capital (1)
$774 $712 $(307)
Long-term debt, net (2)
$10,273 $9,922 $11,932
Shareholders' equity
$39,508 $39,832 $38,585
Debt to book capitalization (2)
20.6%19.9%23.6 %
After-tax return on average capital employed (3)
15.6%17.2%19.7 %
(1)Calculated as current assets less current liabilities, excluding the current portion of long-term debt.
(2)Capital Management Measure. Refer to the "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section of this MD&A.
(3)Non-GAAP Ratio. Refer to the "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section of this MD&A.
As at March 31, 2024, the Company's capital resources consisted primarily of cash flows from operating activities, available bank credit facilities and access to debt capital markets. Cash flows from operating activities and the Company's ability to renew existing bank credit facilities and raise new debt are dependent on factors discussed in the "Business Environment" section of this MD&A and in the "Risks and Uncertainties" section of the Company's annual MD&A for the year ended December 31, 2023. In addition, the Company's ability to renew existing bank credit facilities and raise new debt reflects current credit ratings as determined by independent rating agencies, and market conditions. The Company continues to believe its internally generated cash flows from operating activities supported by its ongoing hedge policy, the flexibility of its capital expenditure programs and multi-year financial plans, its existing bank credit facilities, and its ability to raise new debt on commercially acceptable terms will provide sufficient liquidity to sustain its operations in the short, medium and long-term and support its growth strategy.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
23
Three months ended March 31, 2024


On an ongoing basis the Company continues to focus on its balance sheet strength and available liquidity by:
Monitoring cash flows from operating activities, which is the primary source of funds;
Monitoring exposure to individual customers, contractors, suppliers, and joint venture partners on a regular basis and when appropriate, ensuring parental guarantees or letters of credit are in place, and as applicable, taking other mitigating actions to minimize the impact in the event of a default;
Actively managing the allocation of capital to ensure it is expended in a prudent and appropriate manner with flexibility to adjust to market conditions. The Company continues to exercise its capital flexibility to address commodity price volatility and its impact on operating expenditures, capital commitments and long-term debt;
Monitoring the Company's ability to fulfill financial obligations as they become due or the ability to monetize assets in a timely manner at a reasonable price;
Reviewing bank credit facilities and public debt indentures to ensure they are in compliance with applicable covenant packages; and
Reviewing the Company's borrowing capacity:
Borrowings under the Company's revolving credit facilities may be made by way of pricing referenced to Canadian dollar bankers' acceptances, US dollar bankers' acceptances, SOFR, US base rate or Canadian prime rate.
The Company's borrowings under its US commercial paper program are authorized up to a maximum of US$2,500 million.
In July 2023, the Company filed a base shelf prospectus that allows for the offer for sale from time to time of up to $3,000 million of medium-term notes in Canada, which expires in August 2025. If issued, these securities may be offered in amounts and at prices, including interest rates, to be determined based on market conditions at the time of issuance.
Subsequent to March 31, 2024, the Company repaid US$500 million of 3.80% US dollar debt securities due April 15, 2024.
In July 2023, the Company filed a base shelf prospectus that allows for the offer for sale from time to time of up to US$3,000 million of debt securities in the United States, which expires in August 2025. If issued, these securities may be offered in amounts and at prices, including interest rates, to be determined based on market conditions at the time of issuance.
As at March 31, 2024, the Company had undrawn revolving bank credit facilities of $5,450 million. Including cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments, the Company had approximately $6,817 million in liquidity. The Company also has certain other dedicated credit facilities supporting letters of credit. At March 31, 2024, the Company had no commercial paper drawn under its commercial paper program, and reserves capacity under its revolving bank credit facilities for amounts outstanding under this program.
Long-term debt, net was $10,273 million as at March 31, 2024, resulting in a debt to book capitalization ratio of 20.6% (December 31, 2023 – 19.9%); this ratio was below the 25% to 45% internal range utilized by management. The ratio may fall below or exceed the targeted range depending on the execution of the Company's capital program, commodity price and foreign currency volatility, and the timing of acquisitions. The Company remains committed to maintaining a strong balance sheet, adequate available liquidity and a flexible capital structure. Further details related to the Company's long-term debt as at March 31, 2024 are discussed in note 8 to the financial statements.
The Company is subject to a financial covenant that requires debt to book capitalization as defined in its credit facility agreements to not exceed 65%. As at March 31, 2024, the Company was in compliance with this covenant.
The Company periodically utilizes commodity derivative financial instruments under its commodity hedge policy to reduce the risk of volatility in commodity prices and to support the Company's cash flow for its capital expenditure programs. This policy currently allows for the hedging of up to 60% of the near 12 months budgeted production and up to 40% of the following 13 to 24 months estimated production. For the purpose of this policy, the purchase of put options is in addition to the above parameters.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
24
Three months ended March 31, 2024


As at March 31, 2024, the maturity dates of certain financial liabilities, including long-term debt and other long-term liabilities and related interest payments, were as follows:
 Less than
1 year
1 to less than
2 years
2 to less than
5 years
Thereafter
Long-term debt (1)
$1,809 $812 $2,357 $6,119 
Other long-term liabilities (2)
$291 $198 $425 $627 
Interest and other financing expense (3)
$579 $504 $1,294 $3,312 
(1)Long-term debt represents principal repayments only and does not reflect interest, original issue discounts and premiums or transaction costs.
(2)Lease payments included within other long-term liabilities reflect principal payments only and are as follows; less than one year, $285 million; one to less than two years, $198 million; two to less than five years, $425 million; and thereafter, $627 million.
(3)Includes interest and other financing expense on long-term debt and other long-term liabilities. Payments were estimated based upon applicable interest and foreign exchange rates as at March 31, 2024.
Share Capital
As at March 31, 2024, there were 1,069,988,000 common shares outstanding (December 31, 2023 – 1,072,408,000 common shares) and 28,286,000 stock options outstanding (December 31, 2023 – 26,205,000). As at April 30, 2024, the Company had 1,067,354,000 common shares outstanding and 27,365,000 stock options outstanding.
On February 28, 2024, the Board of Directors approved a 5% increase in the quarterly dividend to $1.05 per common share, beginning with the dividend paid on April 5, 2024.
On November 1, 2023, the Board of Directors approved an 11% increase in the quarterly dividend to $1.00 per common share. On March 1, 2023, the Board of Directors approved a 6% increase in the quarterly dividend to $0.90 per common share.
On March 8, 2024, the Company's application was approved for a Normal Course Issuer Bid to purchase through the facilities of the Toronto Stock Exchange ("TSX"), alternative Canadian trading platforms, and the New York Stock Exchange, up to 90,231,429 common shares, representing 10% of the public float, over a 12-month period commencing March 13, 2024 and ending March 12, 2025.
For the three months ended March 31, 2024, the Company purchased 6,675,000 common shares at a weighted average price of $90.78 per common share for a total cost of $606 million. Retained earnings were reduced by $538 million, representing the excess of the purchase price of common shares over their average carrying value. Subsequent to March 31, 2024, up to and including April 30, 2024, the Company purchased 2,750,000 common shares at a weighted average price of $107.16 per common share for a total cost of $295 million.
Share Split
On February 28, 2024, the Company's Board of Directors approved a resolution to subdivide the Company's common shares on a two for one basis, subject to shareholder approval and the Company having obtained all regulatory approvals, including TSX approval. The proposal will be voted on at the Company's Annual and Special Meeting of Shareholders to be held on May 2, 2024.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
25
Three months ended March 31, 2024


COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
In the normal course of business, the Company has committed to certain payments. The following table summarizes the Company's commitments as at March 31, 2024:
($ millions)Remaining 20242025202620272028Thereafter
Product transportation and processing (1)
$1,244 $1,675 $1,530 $1,462 $1,347 $13,621 
North West Redwater Partnership service toll (2)
$117 $156 $138 $124 $128 $4,933 
Offshore vessels and equipment
$28 $35 $— $— $— $— 
Field equipment and power$38 $25 $23 $22 $22 $193 
Other $123 $111 $111 $25 $26 $355 
(1)The Company's commitment for the 20-year product transportation agreement on the Trans Mountain Expansion pipeline reflects interim tolls approved by the Canada Energy Regulator in the fourth quarter of 2023, and is subject to change pending the approval of final tolls.
(2)Pursuant to the processing agreements, the Company pays its 25% pro rata share of the debt component of the monthly fee-for-service toll. Included in the toll is $2,922 million of interest payable over the 40-year tolling period, ending in 2058.
In addition to the commitments disclosed above, the Company has entered into various agreements related to the engineering, procurement and construction of its various development projects. These contracts can be cancelled by the Company upon notice without penalty, subject to the costs incurred up to and in respect of the cancellation.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS AND OTHER CONTINGENCIES
The Company is defendant and plaintiff in a number of legal actions arising in the normal course of business. In addition, the Company is subject to certain contractor construction claims. The Company believes that any liabilities that might arise pertaining to any such matters would not have a material effect on its consolidated financial position.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
The preparation of financial statements requires the Company to make estimates, assumptions and judgements in the application of IFRS that have a significant impact on the financial results of the Company. Actual results may differ from estimated amounts, and those differences may be material. A comprehensive discussion of the Company's significant accounting estimates is contained in the Company's annual MD&A and audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2023.
CONTROL ENVIRONMENT
There have been no changes to internal control over financial reporting ("ICFR") during the three months ended March 31, 2024 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect the Company's internal control over financial reporting. Due to inherent limitations, disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements, and even those controls determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
26
Three months ended March 31, 2024


NON-GAAP AND OTHER FINANCIAL MEASURES
This MD&A includes references to non-GAAP and other financial measures as defined in NI 52-112. These financial measures are used by the Company to evaluate its financial performance, financial position and cash flow and include non-GAAP financial measures, non-GAAP ratios, total of segments measures, capital management measures, and supplementary financial measures. These financial measures are not defined by IFRS and therefore are referred to as non-GAAP and other financial measures. The non-GAAP and other financial measures used by the Company may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies, and should not be considered an alternative to or more meaningful than the most directly comparable financial measure presented in the financial statements, as applicable, as an indication of the Company's performance. Descriptions of the Company's non-GAAP and other financial measures included in this MD&A, and reconciliations to the most directly comparable GAAP measure, as applicable, are provided below.
Adjusted Net Earnings from Operations
Adjusted net earnings from operations is a non-GAAP financial measure that adjusts net earnings as presented in the Company's consolidated Statements of Earnings, for non-operating items, net of tax impacts. The Company considers adjusted net earnings from operations a key measure in evaluating its performance, as it demonstrates the Company's ability to generate after-tax operating earnings from its core business areas. A reconciliation for adjusted net earnings from operations is presented below.
Three Months Ended
($ millions)Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Net earnings $987 $2,627 $1,799 
Share-based compensation, net of tax (1)
281 51 62 
Unrealized risk management loss (gain), net of tax (2)
12 (9)16 
Unrealized foreign exchange loss (gain), net of tax (3)
269 (276)(3)
(Gain) loss from investments, net of tax (4)
(75)40 
Recoverability charge, net of tax (5)
 113 — 
Non-operating items, net of tax487 (81)82 
Adjusted net earnings from operations$1,474 $2,546 $1,881 
(1)Share-based compensation includes costs incurred under the Company's Stock Option Plan and PSU plan. The fair value of the share-based compensation is recognized as a liability on the Company's balance sheets and periodic changes in the fair value are recognized in net earnings. Pre-tax share-based compensation for the three months ended March 31, 2024 was an expense of $294 million (three months ended December 31, 2023 – $57 million expense, three months ended March 31, 2023 – $66 million expense).
(2)Derivative financial instruments are recognized at fair value on the Company's balance sheets, with changes in the fair value of non-designated hedges recognized in net earnings. The amounts ultimately realized may be materially different than those amounts reflected in the financial statements due to changes in prices of the underlying items hedged, primarily crude oil, natural gas and foreign exchange. Pre-tax unrealized risk management loss for the three months ended March 31, 2024 was $13 million (three months ended December 31, 2023 – $7 million gain, three months ended March 31, 2023 – $20 million loss).
(3)Unrealized foreign exchange gains and losses result primarily from the translation of US dollar denominated long-term debt to period-end exchange rates and are recognized in net earnings. Pre- and after-tax amounts for these unrealized foreign exchange gains and losses are the same.
(4)The Company's investments have been accounted for at fair value through profit and loss and are measured each period with gains and losses recognized in net earnings. There is zero net tax impact on these gains and losses from investments.
(5)The Company recognized a pre-tax recoverability charge of $436 million in depletion, depreciation and amortization expense in 2023 related to revised project scope and the current cost environment for planned decommissioning and abandonment activities at the Ninian field in the North Sea. These costs are considered to be non-operating in nature.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
27
Three months ended March 31, 2024


Adjusted Funds Flow
Adjusted funds flow is a non-GAAP financial measure that represents cash flows from operating activities as presented in the Company's consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, adjusted for the net change in non-cash working capital, abandonment expenditures, and movements in other long-term assets. The Company considers adjusted funds flow a key measure in evaluating its performance, as it demonstrates the Company's ability to generate the cash flow necessary to fund future growth through capital investment, repay debt, and provide returns to shareholders through dividends and share buybacks. A reconciliation for adjusted funds flow, from cash flows from operating activities is presented below.
Three Months Ended
($ millions)Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Cash flows from operating activities
$2,868 $4,815 $1,295 
Net change in non-cash working capital
15 (562)1,908 
Abandonment expenditures
162 149 137 
Movements in other long-term assets (1)
93 17 89 
Adjusted funds flow$3,138 $4,419 $3,429 
(1)Includes the unamortized cost of the share bonus program, the accrued interest on the deferred PRT recovery, and prepaid cost of service tolls.
Adjusted Net Earnings from Operations and Adjusted Funds Flow, Per Common Share (Basic and Diluted)
Adjusted net earnings from operations and adjusted funds flow, per common share (basic and diluted), are non-GAAP ratios that represent those non-GAAP measures divided by the weighted average number of basic and diluted common shares outstanding for the period, respectively, as presented in note 14 to the financial statements. These non-GAAP measures, disclosed on a per share basis, enable a comparison to the per share amounts disclosed in the Company's financial statements prepared in accordance with IFRS.
Netback
Netback is a non-GAAP ratio that represents net cash flows provided from core activities after the impact of all costs associated with bringing a product to market, on a per unit basis. The Company considers netback a key measure in evaluating its performance, as it demonstrates the efficiency and profitability of the Company's activities. Refer to the "Operating Highlights – Exploration and Production" section of this MD&A for the netback calculations on a per unit basis for crude oil and NGLs and on a total barrels of oil equivalent basis.
The netback calculations include the non-GAAP financial measures: realized price and transportation, reconciled below to their respective line item in note 17 to the financial statements.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
28
Three months ended March 31, 2024


Realized Price ($/bbl and $/BOE) – Exploration and Production
Realized price ($/bbl and $/BOE) is a non-GAAP ratio calculated as realized crude oil and NGLs sales and total realized BOE sales (non-GAAP financial measures) divided by respective sales volumes. Realized crude oil and NGLs sales and total realized BOE sales exclude the impact of blending and feedstock costs and other by-product sales. The Company considers realized price a key measure in evaluating its performance, as it demonstrates the realized pricing per unit the Company obtained on the market for its crude oil and NGLs sales volumes and BOE sales volumes.
Reconciliations for Exploration and Production realized crude oil and NGLs sales and BOE sales and the calculations for realized price are presented below.
Three Months Ended
($ millions, except bbl/d and $/bbl)Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Crude oil and NGLs (bbl/d)
North America494,621 526,350 481,045 
International
North Sea13,468 15,032 — 
Offshore Africa8,046 17,705 10,393 
Total International21,514 32,737 10,393 
Total sales volumes516,135 559,087 491,438 
Crude oil and NGLs sales (1)
$4,505 $4,790 $3,841 
Less: Blending and feedstock costs (2)
1,217 1,222 1,238 
Realized crude oil and NGLs sales
$3,288 $3,568 $2,603 
Realized price ($/bbl)
$70.01 $69.39 $58.85 
(1)Crude oil and NGLs sales in note 17 to the financial statements.
(2)Blending and feedstock costs are a component of transportation, blending and feedstock expense as reconciled below in the "Transportation – Exploration and Production" section.
Three Months Ended
($ millions, except BOE/d and $/BOE)Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Barrels of oil equivalent (BOE/d)
North America850,336 895,996 835,542 
International
North Sea13,709 15,296 419 
Offshore Africa9,924 19,567 11,961 
Total International23,633 34,863 12,380 
Total sales volumes873,969 930,859 847,922 
Barrels of oil equivalent sales (1)
$5,004 $5,365 $4,663 
Less: Blending and feedstock costs (2)
1,217 1,222 1,238 
Less: Sulphur expense (income)
1 (2)(8)
Realized barrels of oil equivalent sales
$3,786 $4,145 $3,433 
Realized price ($/BOE)
$47.60 $48.41 $44.98 
(1)Barrels of oil equivalent sales includes crude oil and NGLs sales and natural gas sales in note 17 to the financial statements.
(2)Blending and feedstock costs are a component of transportation, blending and feedstock expense as reconciled below in the "Transportation – Exploration and Production" section.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
29
Three months ended March 31, 2024


Transportation – Exploration and Production
Transportation ($/BOE, $/bbl and $/Mcf) is a non-GAAP ratio calculated as transportation (a non-GAAP financial measure) divided by the respective sales volumes. The Company calculates transportation to demonstrate its cost to deliver products to the market excluding the impact of blending costs. A reconciliation for Exploration and Production transportation and the calculations for transportation on a per unit basis are presented below.
Three Months Ended
($ millions, except $ per unit amounts)Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Transportation, blending and feedstock (1)
$1,560 $1,531 $1,546 
Less: Blending and feedstock costs1,217 1,222 1,238 
Transportation$343 $309 $308 
Transportation ($/BOE)$4.31 $3.61 $4.03 
Amounts attributed to crude oil and NGLs$217 $197 $200 
Transportation ($/bbl)$4.63 $3.83 $4.52 
Amounts attributed to natural gas$126 $112 $108 
Transportation ($/Mcf)$0.64 $0.54 $0.55 
(1)Transportation, blending and feedstock in note 17 to the financial statements.
North America – Realized Product Prices and Royalties
Realized crude oil and NGLs price ($/bbl) is a non-GAAP ratio calculated as realized crude oil and NGLs sales (non-GAAP financial measure) divided by sales volumes. Realized crude oil and NGLs sales exclude the impact of blending costs. The Company considers the realized crude oil and NGLs price a key measure in evaluating its performance, as it demonstrates the realized pricing per unit that the Company obtained on the market for its crude oil and NGLs sales volumes.
Crude oil and NGLs royalty rate is a non-GAAP ratio that is calculated as crude oil and NGLs royalties divided by realized crude oil and NGLs sales. The Company considers crude oil and NGLs royalty rate a key measure in evaluating its performance, as it describes the Company's royalties for crude oil and NGLs sales volumes on a per unit basis.
A reconciliation for North America realized crude oil and NGLs sales and the calculations for realized crude oil and NGLs prices and the royalty rates are presented below.
Three Months Ended
($ millions, except $/bbl and royalty rates)Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Crude oil and NGLs sales (1)
$4,284 $4,451 $3,749 
Less: Blending and feedstock costs (2)
1,217 1,222 1,238 
Realized crude oil and NGLs sales
$3,067 $3,229 $2,511 
Realized crude oil and NGLs prices ($/bbl)
$68.14 $66.69 $57.99 
Crude oil and NGLs royalties (3)
$563 $567 $437 
Crude oil and NGLs royalty rates18%18%17%
(1)Crude oil and NGLs sales in note 17 to the financial statements.
(2)Blending and feedstock costs are a component of transportation, blending and feedstock expense as reconciled above in the "Transportation – Exploration and Production" section.
(3)Item is a component of royalties in note 17 to the financial statements.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
30
Three months ended March 31, 2024


Realized Product Prices and Transportation – Oil Sands Mining and Upgrading
Realized SCO sales price ($/bbl) is a non-GAAP ratio calculated as realized SCO sales (non-GAAP financial measure) excluding the impact of blending and feedstock costs, divided by SCO sales volumes. The Company considers realized SCO sales price a key measure in evaluating its performance, as it demonstrates the realized pricing per unit that the Company obtained on the market for its SCO sales volumes.
Transportation ($/bbl) is a non-GAAP ratio calculated as transportation (a non-GAAP financial measure) divided by SCO sales volumes. The Company calculates transportation to demonstrate its cost to deliver product to the market excluding the impact of blending and feedstock costs.
Reconciliations for Oil Sands Mining and Upgrading realized SCO sales and transportation and the calculations for realized SCO sales price and transportation on a per unit basis are presented below.
Three Months Ended
($ millions, except for bbl/d and $/bbl)Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
SCO sales volumes (bbl/d)453,794 491,339 462,021 
Crude oil and NGLs sales (1)
$4,168 $5,042 $4,482 
Less: Blending and feedstock costs499 579 487 
Realized SCO sales$3,669 $4,463 $3,995 
Realized SCO sales price ($/bbl)$88.84 $98.73 $96.07 
Transportation, blending and feedstock (2)
$568 $663 $550 
Less: Blending and feedstock costs
499 579 487 
Transportation
$69 $84 $63 
Transportation ($/bbl)$1.67 $1.85 $1.52 
(1)Crude oil and NGLs sales in note 17 to the financial statements.
(2)Transportation, blending and feedstock in note 17 to the financial statements.
Change in Composition of Non-GAAP Financial Measure
During the fourth quarter of 2023, the Company revised the composition of its Net Capital Expenditures non-GAAP financial measure to exclude expenditures related to the Company's abandonment program. The revision was made during Management's assessment of its annual capital budgeting process, and will provide users a better representation of the Company's performance and the composition of its capital budget. The composition of this measure has been updated for all periods presented.
Net Capital Expenditures
Net capital expenditures is a non-GAAP financial measure that represents cash flows used in investing activities as presented in the Company's consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, adjusted for the net change in non-cash working capital, and cash flows from investing activities not included in the Company's capital budget. The Company includes acquisition and disposition capital in net capital expenditures. The Company considers net capital expenditures a key measure in evaluating its performance, as it provides an understanding of the Company's capital spending activities in comparison to the Company's annual capital budget. A reconciliation of net capital expenditures is presented below.
Three Months Ended
($ millions)Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Cash flows used in investing activities$1,392 $946 $1,153 
Net change in non-cash working capital(279)29 104 
Net capital expenditures1,113 975 1,257 
Abandonment expenditures162 149 137 
Capital and abandonment expenditures$1,275 $1,124 $1,394 

Canadian Natural Resources Limited
31
Three months ended March 31, 2024


Liquidity
Liquidity is a non-GAAP financial measure that represents the availability of readily available undrawn bank credit facilities, cash and cash equivalents, and other highly liquid assets to meet short-term funding requirements and to assist in assessing the Company's financial position. The Company's calculation of liquidity is presented below.
($ millions)
Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Undrawn bank credit facilities$5,450 $5,450 $5,520 
Cash and cash equivalents767 877 92 
Investments
600 525 484 
Liquidity
$6,817 $6,852 $6,096 
Long-term Debt, net
Long-term debt, net, is a capital management measure that represents long-term debt, including the current portion of long-term debt, less cash and cash equivalents, as disclosed in note 13 to the financial statements. A reconciliation of long-term debt, net is presented below.
($ millions)
Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Long-term debt$11,040 $10,799 $12,024 
Less: cash and cash equivalents767 877 92 
Long-term debt, net
$10,273 $9,922 $11,932 
Debt to Book Capitalization
Debt to book capitalization is a capital management measure intended to enable financial statement users to evaluate the Company's capital structure, as disclosed in note 13 to the financial statements.
After-Tax Return on Average Capital Employed
After-tax return on average capital employed as defined by the Company is a non-GAAP ratio. The ratio is calculated as net earnings plus after-tax interest and other financing expense for the twelve month trailing period; as a percentage of average capital employed (defined as current and long-term debt plus shareholders' equity) for the twelve month trailing period. The Company considers this ratio a key measure in evaluating the Company's ability to generate profit and the efficiency with which it employs capital. A reconciliation of the Company's after-tax return on average capital employed is presented below.
($ millions, except ratios)
Mar 31
2024
Dec 31
2023
Mar 31
2023
Interest adjusted after-tax return:
Net earnings, 12 months trailing$7,421 $8,233 $9,635 
Interest and other financing expense, net of tax, 12 months trailing (1)
477 490 417 
Interest adjusted after-tax return$7,898 $8,723 $10,052 
12 months average current portion long-term debt (2)
$1,541 $1,259 $1,357 
12 months average long-term debt (2)
9,992 10,354 11,228 
12 months average common shareholders' equity (2)
39,240 38,974 38,544 
12 months average capital employed$50,773 $50,587 $51,129 
After-tax return on average capital employed15.6%17.2%19.7%
(1)The blended tax rate on interest was 23% for each of the periods presented.
(2)For the purpose of this non-GAAP ratio, the measurement of average current and long-term debt and common shareholders' equity are determined on a consistent basis, as an average of the opening and quarterly period end values for the 12 month trailing period for each of the periods presented.
Canadian Natural Resources Limited
32
Three months ended March 31, 2024