David Taylor, MBA, CFA
Western Lakota Energy Services
WLE-T
HOLD
Dec 20, 2005
Likes this company very much. An interesting concept. They can drill on native lands were others can't get access. Stock is pricey based on the number of rigs they have.
A very good drilling company. Basically have new equipment which means fewer accidents and breakdowns. Have very good relationships with the aboriginal community.
Drillers have increased their charges by about 10%. A lot of the rigs are “take or pay” so it doesn't matter if they are operating or not. The bigger problem is more related to getting crews. They have better luck as they are using the pools from aboriginals. They have done extremely well and should continue to do well.
A drilling rig company that is expanding rapidly. Last year, they had an average of 18 drilling rigs and exited the year with 34. By the end of this year they will be 50/51. The P/E ratio will drop from 30 X’s to 13 X’s. Very cheap stock, but you have to look out to 2007.
With the warm weather and the buildup of oil/gas supplies, these stocks have weakened. The long-term story on oil/gas is very, very bright. Short-term, the stock could be affected.
He has Western Lakota Energy stock in his portfolio and have owned it for quite some time. It is a quality name. Now is a good opportunity to acquire this company and own for a longer term.
A well run oil drilling company. 4th quarter numbers where off because of the warm winter resulting in a slowdown. 1st quarter numbers this year should be good.
Merging with Savanna Energy (SVY-T). 2 very unique companies with unique strategies which makes them fit together nicely. Natural gas will go up when companies stop drilling for it and that will happen which will not be good to this company short-term.