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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 

 
FORM 10-Q
 

 
Check One
 
 
x
Quarterly report under Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2011
     
   
or
     
 
o
Transition report under Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
 
Commission File Number 0-12500
 
ISRAMCO, INC
(Exact Name of registrant as Specified in its Charter)
 
Delaware
 
13-3145265
(State or other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization)
 
I.R.S. Employer Number
 
2425 West Loop South, Suite 810, HOUSTON, TX 77027
 (Address of Principal Executive Offices)
 
713-621-5946
(Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)
 
Indicate by check whether the registrant: (1) filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes o No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definition of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
 
Large accelerated filer o Accelerated filer x Non-accelerated filer o (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)  Smaller reporting company o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes o No x
 
The number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s Common Stock as May 10, 2011 was 2,717,691.
 
 
 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
   
Page
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION:
 
     
Item 1.
3
 
3
 
4
 
5
 
6
Item 2.
13
Item 3.
20
Item 4.
Controls and Procedures
20
     
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
 
     
Item 1.
 
Item 1A.
21
Item 2.
21
Item 3.
21
Item 4.
(Removed and Reserved)
21
Item 5.
21
Item 6.
21
 
22
 
Forward Looking Statements
 
CERTAIN STATEMENTS MADE IN THIS QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q ARE “FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS” WITHIN THE MEANING OF THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS CAN BE IDENTIFIED BY TERMINOLOGY SUCH AS “MAY”, “WILL”, “SHOULD”, “EXPECTS”, “INTENDS”, “ANTICIPATES”, “BELIEVES”, “ESTIMATES”, “PREDICTS”, OR “CONTINUE” OR THE NEGATIVE OF THESE TERMS OR OTHER COMPARABLE TERMINOLOGY AND INCLUDE, WITHOUT LIMITATION, STATEMENTS BELOW REGARDING EXPLORATION AND DRILLING PLANS, FUTURE GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES, FUTURE GROWTH, FUTURE EXPLORATION, FUTURE GEOPHYSICAL AND GEOLOGICAL DATA, GENERATION OF ADDITIONAL PROPERTIES, RESERVES, NEW PROSPECTS AND DRILLING LOCATIONS, FUTURE CAPITAL EXPENDITURES, SUFFICIENCY OF WORKING CAPITAL, ABILITY TO RAISE ADDITIONAL CAPITAL, PROJECTED CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATIONS, OUTCOME OF ANY LEGAL PROCEEDINGS, DRILLING PLANS, THE NUMBER, TIMING OR RESULTS OF ANY WELLS, INTERPRETATION AND RESULTS OF SEISMIC SURVEYS OR SEISMIC DATA, FUTURE PRODUCTION OR RESERVES, LEASE OPTIONS OR RIGHTS, PARTICIPATION OF OPERATING PARTNERS, CONTINUED RECEIPT OF ROYALTIES, AND ANY OTHER STATEMENTS REGARDING FUTURE OPERATIONS, FINANCIAL RESULTS, OPPORTUNITIES, GROWTH, BUSINESS PLANS AND STRATEGY. BECAUSE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS INVOLVE RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES, THERE ARE IMPORTANT FACTORS THAT COULD CAUSE ACTUAL RESULTS TO DIFFER MATERIALLY FROM THOSE EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED BY THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS. ALTHOUGH THE COMPANY BELIEVES THAT EXPECTATIONS REFLECTED IN THE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS ARE REASONABLE, IT CANNOT GUARANTEE FUTURE RESULTS, PERFORMANCE OR ACHIEVEMENTS. MOREOVER, NEITHER THE COMPANY NOR ANY OTHER PERSON ASSUMES RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY AND COMPLETENESS OF THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS. THE COMPANY IS UNDER NO DUTY TO UPDATE ANY FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS AFTER THE DATE OF THIS REPORT TO CONFORM SUCH STATEMENTS TO ACTUAL RESULTS.
 
 
ITEM 1. Financial Statements
ISRAMCO INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except share and per share amounts)
 (Unaudited)
   
As of
March 31, 2011
   
As of
December 31, 2010
 
ASSETS
 
Current Assets:
           
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
862
   
$
5,657
 
Accounts receivable, net
   
5,910
     
6,110
 
Restricted and designated cash
   
2,889
     
889
 
Deferred tax assets
   
3,821
     
3,368
 
Derivative asset
   
135
     
2,156
 
Prepaid expenses and other
   
592
     
715
 
Total Current Assets
   
14,209
     
18,895
 
                 
Property and Equipment, at cost – successful efforts method:
               
Oil and Gas properties
   
222,752
     
222,122
 
Other
   
1,110
     
922
 
Total Property and Equipment
   
223,862
     
223,044
 
Accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization
   
(94,205
)
   
(91,208
)
Net Property and Equipment
   
129,657
     
131,836
 
                 
Marketable securities, at market
   
15,880
     
16,099
 
Debt cost
   
-
     
70
 
Derivative asset
   
-
     
343
 
Deferred tax assets and other
   
6,565
     
4,635
 
Total assets
 
$
166,311
   
$
171,878
 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 
Current liabilities:
           
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
 
$
7,933
   
$
9,316
 
Bank overdraft
   
418
     
335
 
Current maturities of long-term debt
   
27,375
     
14,350
 
Derivative liability
   
405
     
1,133
 
Due to related party and accrued interest
   
24,119
     
9,371
 
Total current liabilities
   
60,250
     
34,505
 
                 
Long-term debt
   
-
     
22,725
 
 
   
 
     
 
 
Due to related party and accrued interest
   
74,954
     
77,132
 
                 
Other Long-term Liabilities:
               
Asset retirement obligations
   
16,713
     
16,577
 
Derivative liability – non-current
   
283
     
2,402
 
Total other long-term liabilities
   
16,996
     
18,979
 
                 
Commitments and contingencies
               
                 
Shareholders’ equity:
               
Common stock $0.0l par value; authorized 7,500,000 shares;  issued 2,746,958 shares; outstanding 2,717,691 shares
   
27
     
27
 
Additional paid-in capital
   
23,194
     
23,194
 
Accumulated deficit
   
(18,455
)
   
(14,149
)
Accumulated other comprehensive income
   
9,509
     
9,629
 
Treasury stock, 29,267 shares at cost
   
(164
)
   
(164
)
Total shareholders’ equity
   
14,111
     
18,537
 
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
 
$
166,311
   
$
171,878
 
 
See notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
 
ISRAMCO INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
(Unaudited)


   
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
   
2011
   
2010
 
             
Revenues
           
Oil and gas sales
 
$
10,982
   
$
9,955
 
Office services
   
153
     
202
 
Other
   
15
     
8
 
Total revenues
   
11,150
     
10,165
 
                 
Operating expenses
               
Lease operating expense, transportation and taxes
   
5,128
     
4,900
 
Depreciation, depletion and amortization
   
2,997
     
3,170
 
Accretion expense
   
208
     
204
 
Loss from plug and abandonment
   
113
     
346
 
General and administrative
   
1,125
     
899
 
Total operating expenses
   
9,571
     
9,519
 
Operating income
   
1,579
     
646
 
                 
Other expenses (income)
               
Interest expense, net
   
2,113
     
1,962
 
Net (gain) loss on derivative contracts
   
6,089
     
(3,373
)
Total other expenses (income)
   
8,202
     
(1,411
)
                 
Income (loss) before income taxes
   
(6,623
   
2,057
 
Income tax expense (benefit)
   
2,317
     
(700
)
                 
Net income (loss)
 
$
(4,306
 
$
1,357
 
                 
                 
Earnings (loss) per share – basic:
 
$
(1.58
 
$
0.50
 
                 
Earnings (loss) per share diluted:   (1.58 )   0.50  
                 
Weighted average number of shares outstanding  basic:     2,717,691       2,717,691  
Weighted average number of shares outstanding diluted:
   
2,717,691
     
2,717,691
 

See notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

ISRAMCO INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
(Unaudited)

   
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
   
2011
   
2010
 
             
Cash Flows From Operating Activities:
           
Net income (loss)
 
$
(4,306
 
$
1,357
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
               
                 
Depreciation, depletion, amortization and impairment
   
2,997
     
3,170
 
Accretion expense
   
208
     
204
 
Changes in deferred taxes
   
(2,318
   
700
 
Net unrealized gain on derivative contracts
   
(449
)
   
(1,985
)
Amortization of debt cost
   
63
     
63
 
Changes in components of working capital and other assets and liabilities
               
Accounts receivable
   
200
     
1,825
 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
   
129
     
(225
Due to related party
   
1,570
     
(59
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
   
(1,454
   
(2,232
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
   
(3,360
   
2,818
 
                 
Cash flows from investing activities:
               
Addition to property and equipment, net
   
(818
)
   
(374
)
Restricted cash and deposit, net
   
(2,000
   
-
 
Net cash (used in) investing activities
   
(2,818
   
(374
                 
Cash flows from financing activities:
               
Repayment of long-term debt
   
(9,700
)
   
(1,950
)
Proceeds on loans – related parties, net
   
11,000
     
-
 
Borrowings (repayments) of short - term debt, net
   
83
     
576
 
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
   
1,383
     
(1,374
                 
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
   
(4,795
   
1,070
 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
   
5,657
     
2,907
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
 
$
862
   
$
3,977
 
 
See notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
 
Isramco Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)
 
Note 1 - Financial Statement Presentation
 
As used in these financial statements, the terms “Company” and “Isramco” refer to Isramco, Inc. and its subsidiaries, Jay Petroleum, L.L.C. (“Jay Petroleum”), Jay Management  Company L.L.C. (“Jay Management”), IsramTec Inc. (“IsramTec”), Isramco Resources LLC, Isramco Energy LLC and Field Trucking and Services, LLC (”FTS”).
 
The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial information and with the instructions of the Securities & Exchange Commission to Form 10-Q.  Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements.  In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of only normal recurring adjustments) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. Results for the three-month period ended March 31, 2011 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ended December 31, 2011. For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and footnotes thereto included in Isramco’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires the Company’s management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities, if any, at the date of the condensed consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the respective reporting periods. The Company bases its estimates and judgments on historical experience and on various other assumptions and information that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Estimates and assumptions about future events and their effects cannot be perceived with certainty and, accordingly, these estimates may change as new events occur, as more experience is acquired, as additional information is obtained and as the Company’s operating environment changes. Actual results may differ from the estimates and assumptions used in the preparation of the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
Consolidated interim period results are not necessarily indicative of results of operations or cash flows for the full year and accordingly, certain information normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States has been condensed or omitted. The Company has evaluated events or transactions through the date of issuance of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
Risk Management Activities

The Company follows Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 815, Derivatives and Hedging. From time to time, the Company may hedge a portion of its forecasted oil and natural gas production. Derivative contracts entered into by the Company have consisted of transactions in which the Company hedges the variability of cash flow related to a forecasted transaction. The Company has elected to not designate any of its positions for hedge accounting. Accordingly, the Company records the net change in the mark-to-market valuation of these positions, as well as payments and receipts on settled contracts, in “Net gain on derivative contracts” on the consolidated statements of operations.
 
Consolidation
 
The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Isramco and its wholly-owned subsidiaries: Jay Petroleum, Jay Management, IsramTec, Isramco Resources LLC and Isramco Energy LLC and FTS. Inter-company balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
 
 
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
 
There were no new accounting pronouncements that had a significant impact on the Company’s operating results or financial position.
 
Note 2 - Supplemental Cash Flow Information
 
Cash paid for interest and income taxes was as follows for the period ended March 31 (in thousands):

   
2011
   
2010
 
Interest
 
$
522
   
$
2,122
 
                 
Income taxes
 
$
   
$
 
 
 
Note 3 - Derivative Contracts
 
On March 9, 2011, pursuant to an agreement with Wells Fargo, the derivative contracts between Isramco and Wells Fargo were terminated and the Company signed new swap contracts with Macquarie Bank, N.A. for an aggregate volume of 336,780 barrels of crude oil during the 46 month period commencing March 2011. The payment required for the termination of these contracts was approximately $7 million.

At March 31, 2011, the Company had a $0.1 million commodity current derivative asset, and a $0.7 million derivative liability, of which $0.4 million was classified as current. For the three months ended March 31, 2011, the Company recorded a net derivative loss of $6.1 million ($0.4 million unrealized gain and a $6.5 million loss from net cash paid on settled contracts).

At March 31, 2010, the Company had a $6.7 million commodity derivative asset, of which $4.4 million was classified as current, and a $1 million non-current derivative liability. For the three months ended March 31, 2010, the Company recorded a net derivative gain of $3.4 million ($2 million unrealized gain and a $1.4 million gain from net cash received on settled contracts).

Natural Gas
 
At March 31, 2011, the Company had the following natural gas swap positions:
 
   
Swaps
 
Period
 
Volume in
MMbtu’s
   
Price /
Price Range
   
Weighted
Average Price
 
April 2011 – December 2011
   
573,615
     
8.22
     
8.22
 
January 2012 – March 2012
   
174,222
     
8.65
     
8.65
 
 

Crude Oil
 
At March 31, 2011, the Company had the following crude oil swap positions:

   
Swaps
 
Period
 
Volume in
Bbls
   
Price /
Price Range
   
Weighted
Average Price
 
April 2011 – December 2011
   
180,252
     
88.55-103.51
     
94.96
 
January 2012 – December 2012
   
127,473
     
88.20-103.51
     
99.67
 
January 2013 – December 2013
   
89,400
     
103.51
     
103.51
 
January 2014 – December 2014
   
66,000
     
103.51
     
103.51
 

 
Note 4 - Long-Term Debt and Interest Expense
 
Long-Term Debt as of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010 consisted of the following (in thousands):
 
   
As of
March 31, 2011
   
As of
December 31, 2010
 
Libor + 2% Bank Revolving Credit Facility due 2011
   
-
     
9,450
 
Libor + 2% Bank Revolving Credit Facility due 2012
   
27,375
     
27,625
 
Libor + 6% Related party Debt
   
12,000
     
12,000
 
Libor + 5.5% Related party Debt
   
954
     
954
 
Libor + 6% Related party Debt
   
11,500
     
11,500
 
Libor + 6% Related party Debt
   
6,000
     
6,000
 
Libor + 6% Related party Debt
   
48,900
     
48,900
 
10% Related party Debt
   
11,000
     
-
 
     
117,729
     
116,429
 
Less: Current Portion of Long-Term Debt
   
(44,375
)
   
(17,350
)
Total
   
73,354
     
99,079
 
 
Senior Secured Revolving Credit Agreements
 
On March 3, 2011, the Company paid the outstanding principal balance of the Wells Fargo Senior Credit Facility.  By agreement of the parties, the derivative contracts remained in place until March 9, 2011, when these contracts were novated and replaced by new derivative contracts, for the same volumes but at current market prices, with Macquarie Bank, N.A.  In connection with this transaction, the Wells Fargo Senior Credit Facility was transferred to and assumed by Macquarie Bank, N.A.  This facility currently has no outstanding principal or current availability. The credit facility was assigned and transferred to Macquarie Bank, N.A. in anticipation of the finalization of a successor credit facility pursuant to which all of the Company’s debt (including its related party debt) will be consolidated into a single facility at Macquarie Bank, N.A.  In the event the parties are not successful in finalizing this transaction the facility will be terminated and all collateral related thereto will be released.  The Company is also in negotiations for similar credit facilities with several other commercial lenders, to obtain terms most favorable to the Company.  While confident of a positive outcome of our consolidation efforts, the Company is uncertain as to whether it will be successful in obtaining new replacement financing or, if is obtained, the timetable upon which such facility will be closed and other material terms and conditions.
 
 At March 31, 2011, the Company was in compliance with all of its debt covenants under its existing Credit Agreements. 
 
 
Related Party Debt
 
On March 3, 2011, the Company entered into a Loan Agreement with I.O.C. Israel Oil Company, Ltd., a related party (“IOC”) pursuant to which it borrowed the sum of $11 million. The loan bears interest at a rate of 10% per annum and is payable in quarterly payments of interest only until March 1, 2012, when all accrued interest and principal is due and payable. The loan may be prepaid at any time without penalty. The loan is unsecured. The purpose of the loan was to provide funds to Isramco for the payment of amounts due under the Wells Fargo Senior Credit Facility at maturity, which was March, 2011, and to terminate and re-set the commodity swap hedge arrangement.

 
Interest expense
 
The following table summarizes the amounts included in interest expense for the three month ended March 31, 2011 and 2010 (in thousands):
 
   
Three Months Ended
March 31
 
   
2011
   
2010
 
Current debt, long-term debt and other - banks corporation
 
$
622
   
$
497
 
Long-term debt – related parties
   
1,491
     
1,465
 
   
$
2,113
   
$
1,962
 
  
Note 5 - Comprehensive Income (loss)
 
Our comprehensive income for the three month period ended March 31, 2011 and 2010 was as follows:
 
   
Three Months Ended
March 31
 
   
2011
   
2010
 
Net income (loss)
 
$
(4,306
 
$
1,357
 
Other comprehensive gain (loss)
               
Available-for-sale securities, net of taxes
   
(142
   
388
 
Change in unrealized gains on hedging instruments, net of taxes
   
22
     
103
 
Comprehensive income (loss)
 
$
(4,426
 
$
1,848
 
 
Note 6 - Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Pursuant to ASC 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (ASC 820) the Company's determination of fair value incorporates not only the credit standing of the counterparties involved in transactions with the Company resulting in receivables on the Company's consolidated balance sheets, but also the impact of the Company's nonperformance risk on its own liabilities. ASC 820 defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (exit price). The Company utilizes market data or assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, including assumptions about risk and the risks inherent in the inputs to the valuation technique. These inputs can be readily observable, market corroborated, or generally unobservable. The Company classifies fair value balances based on the observability of those inputs.
 
 
The following tables set forth by level within the fair value hierarchy the Company's financial assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value as of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010. As required by ASC 820, a financial instrument's level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The Company's assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment, and may affect the valuation of fair value assets and liabilities and their placement within the fair value hierarchy levels. There were no transfers between fair value hierarchy levels for the three months ended March 31, 2011.


  
 
March 31, 2011
 
   
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Assets
                       
Marketable securities
 
15,880
   
   
   
15,880
 
Commodity derivatives
   
     
135
     
     
135
 
                                 
    Total
 
$
15,880
   
$
135
   
$
   
$
16,015
 
                                 
Liabilities
                               
Commodity derivatives
 
$
   
688
   
$
   
$
688
 
                                 
    Total
 
$
   
$
688
   
$
   
$
688
 

 
  
 
December 31, 2010
 
   
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Assets
                       
Marketable securities
 
16,099
   
   
   
16,099
 
Commodity derivatives
   
     
2,499
     
     
2,499
 
                                 
    Total
 
$
16,099
   
$
2,499
   
$
   
$
18,598
 
                                 
Liabilities
                               
Commodity derivatives
 
$
   
3,501
   
$
   
$
3,501
 
Interest rate derivatives
   
     
34
     
     
34
 
                                 
    Total
 
$
   
$
3,535
   
$
   
$
3,535
 
 

Marketable securities listed above are carried at fair value. The Company is able to value its marketable securities based on quoted fair values for identical instruments, which resulted in the Company reporting its marketable securities as Level 1.
 
Derivatives listed above include swaps that are carried at fair value. The Company records the net change in the fair value of these positions in “Net gain (loss) on derivative contracts” in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations, in case of commodity derivatives, and in “Other comprehensive income”, in case of  interest rate derivatives. The Company is able to value these assets and liabilities based on observable market data for similar instruments, which resulted in the Company reporting its derivatives as Level 2. This observable data includes the forward curve for commodity prices based on quoted market prices and prospective volatility factors related to changes in the forward curves.
 
As of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, the Company’s derivative contracts were with major financial institutions with investment grade credit ratings which are believed to have a minimal credit risk. As such, the Company is exposed to credit risk to the extent of nonperformance by the counterparties in the derivative contracts discussed above; however, the Company does not anticipate such nonperformance. Each of the counterparties to the Company’s derivative contracts is a lender in the Company’s Senior Credit Agreement. The Company did not post collateral under any of these contracts as they are secured under the Senior Credit Agreements.
 
Note 7 - Subsequent Events
 
The Company has evaluated subsequent events through May 10, 2011, which is the date the consolidated financial statements were issued.
 
 
ITEM 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
THE FOLLOWING COMMENTARY SHOULD BE READ IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND RELATED NOTES CONTAINED ELSEWHERE IN THIS REPORT ON FORM 10-Q. THE DISCUSSION CONTAINS FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS THAT INVOLVE RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES. THESE STATEMENTS RELATE TO FUTURE EVENTS OR OUR FUTURE FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE. IN SOME CASES, YOU CAN IDENTIFY THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS BY TERMINOLOGY SUCH AS “MAY,” “WILL,” “SHOULD,” “EXPECT,” “PLAN,” “ANTICIPATE,” “BELIEVE,” “ESTIMATE,” “PREDICT,” “POTENTIAL,” “INTEND,” OR “CONTINUE,” AND SIMILAR EXPRESSIONS. THESE STATEMENTS ARE ONLY PREDICTIONS. OUR ACTUAL RESULTS MAY DIFFER MATERIALLY FROM THOSE ANTICIPATED IN THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS AS A RESULT OF A VARIETY OF FACTORS, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THOSE SET FORTH UNDER “RISK FACTORS” AND ELSEWHERE IN THIS REPORT ON FORM 10-Q. ISRAMCO INC. DISCLAIMS ANY OBLIGATION TO UPDATE SUCH FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS.
 
Overview
 
Isramco, Inc. (“Isramco” or “we”) is an independent oil and natural gas company engaged in the exploration, development and production of oil and natural gas properties located onshore in the United States. Our properties are primarily located in Texas, New Mexico and Oklahoma. We also act as the operator of certain of these properties. Historically, we have grown through acquisitions, with a focus on properties within our core operating areas that we believe have significant development and exploration opportunities and where we can apply our technical experience and economies of scale to increase production and proved reserves, while lowering lease operating costs.

Our financial results depend upon many factors, but are largely driven by the volume of our oil and natural gas production and the price that we receive for that production. Our production volumes will decline as reserves are depleted unless we expend capital in successful development and exploration activities or acquire additional properties with existing production. The amount we realize for our production depends predominantly upon commodity prices, which are affected by changes in market demand and supply, as impacted by overall economic activity, weather, pipeline capacity constraints, inventory storage levels, basis differentials and other factors, and secondarily upon our commodity price hedging activities. Accordingly, finding and developing oil and natural gas reserves at economical costs is critical to our long-term success. Our future drilling plans are subject to change based upon various factors, some of which are beyond our control, including drilling results, oil and natural gas prices, the availability and cost of capital, drilling and production costs, availability of drilling services and equipment, gathering system and pipeline transportation constraints and regulatory approvals. To the extent these factors lead to reductions in our drilling plans and associated capital budgets in future periods, our financial position, cash flows and operating results could be adversely impacted.
 
Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
Our primary source of cash during the three months ended March 31, 2011 was cash flow from operating activities and loans from related party lender (“Related Party Loans”). We continuously monitor our liquidity and evaluate our development plans in light of a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, our cash flows, capital resources and drilling success.
 
Our future capital resources and liquidity may depend, in part, on our success in developing the leasehold interests that we have acquired. Cash is required to fund capital expenditures necessary to offset inherent declines in production and proven reserves, which is typical in the capital-intensive oil and gas industry. Future success in growing reserves and production will be highly dependent on the capital resources available and our success in finding and acquiring additional reserves. We expect to fund our future capital requirements through internally generated cash flows and borrowings under our Senior Credit Agreements. Long-term cash flows are subject to a number of variables, including the level of production and prices and our commodity price hedging activities, as well as various economic conditions that have historically affected the oil and natural gas industry.
 
During the first three months of 2011, the Cash Balance decreased by $4.8 million. Specifically, the Company paid $9.45 million (which represented payment in full of the Wells Fargo Credit Facility), terminated our commodity hedge swap position with Wells Fargo with a payment of $7 million (and set up a new commodity hedge swap agreement with Macquarie Bank at a more favorable strike price), and posted $2 million cash collateral for the renewal of our operator’s bond.
 
Debt
 
   
As of March 31,
 
As of December 31,
 
   
2011
   
2010
 
Senior Credit Facilities
 
$
-
   
$
22,725
 
Long – term debt – related party
   
73,354
     
76,354
 
Current maturities of long-term debt, short-term debt and bank overdraft
   
44,793
     
17,350
 
Total debt
   
118,147
     
116,429
 
                 
Stockholders’ equity
   
14,111
     
18,537
 
                 
Debt to capital ratio
   
89
%
   
86
%
 
Under the credit facility available, we can borrow up to a maximum of $28,000,000. Management currently believes that this availability is sufficient to provide the liquidity required to satisfy our anticipated working capital needs for 2011.

As of March 31, 2011, our total debt was $118,147,000, compared to total debt of $116,429,000 at December 31, 2010. As of March 31, 2011, current debt included $27,375,000 as current maturities of the Revolving Credit Facilities. As of December 31, 2010, the $4,900,000 included as current maturities was due to the decision by management to continue reducing our debt below the borrowing base.

On March 3, 2011, the Company entered into a Loan Agreement with IOC pursuant to which it borrowed the sum of $11 million.  The loan bears interest at a rate of 10% per annum and is payable in quarterly payments of interest only until March 3, 2012, when all accrued interest and principal is due and payable.  The loan may be prepaid at any time without penalty.  The loan is unsecured.  The purpose of the loan was to provide funds to Isramco for the payment of amounts due under the Wells Fargo Senior Credit Facility at maturity, which was March, 2011 and to terminate and re-set the commodity swap hedge arrangement. On March 3, 2011 Isramco paid the outstanding principal balance due under the Wells Fargo Senior Credit Agreement.  Subsequently, on March 9, 2011, pursuant to an agreement with Wells Fargo, the derivative contracts between Isramco and Wells Fargo were terminated at a cost to the Company of approximately $7,000,000.  Concurrently, the Company entered into new derivative contracts for 336,780 barrels of crude oil during the 46 month period commencing March 2011 with Macquarie Bank, N.A. The Company is actively pursuing a consolidation of all outstanding debt with Macquarie Bank and other commercial lenders.
 
Cash Flow
 
Our primary source of cash during the three months ended March 31, 2011 was cash flow from operating activities and loans from related party loans. Our primary source of cash during the three months ended March 31, 2010 was our operating activities. In 2011 cash received from operations and from related party was offset by repayments of borrowings under our Senior Credit Agreements and payments made on settled derivatives contracts. In 2010 period, cash received from operations were mainly offset by repayments made under our revolving credit facilities.
 
Operating cash flow fluctuations were substantially driven by changes in commodity prices and changes in our production volumes. Working capital was substantially influenced by these variables. Fluctuation in commodity prices and our overall cash flow may result in an increase or decrease in our future capital expenditures. Prices for oil and natural gas have historically been subject to seasonal fluctuations characterized by peak demand and higher prices in the winter heating season; however, the impact of other risks and uncertainties have influenced prices throughout recent years. See Results of Operations below for a review of the impact of prices and volumes on sales.
 
   
Three months Ended March 31,
 
   
2011
   
2010
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Cash flows provided by (used by) operating activities
 
$
(3,360
 
$
2,818
 
Cash flows used in investing activities
   
(2,818
)
   
(374
Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities
   
1,383
     
(1,374
)
Net increase (decrease) in cash
 
$
(4,795
 
$
1,070
 
 
 
Operating Activities, During the first three months of 2011, compared to the first three months of 2010, net cash flow provided by (used in) operating activities decreased by $6,178,000 to $(3,360,000). This decrease was primarily attributable to net cash paid on settled derivatives contracts of $7,007,000, higher lease operating expenses and general and administrative expenses all of which were partially offset by increased oil and natural gas revenues.  The increase in revenues was primarily attributable to higher average oil prices for the quarter ended March 31, 2011 of $93.36/bbl, compared to $77.75/bbl for the quarter ended March 31, 2010.
 
Investing Activities, Net cash flows used in investing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010 were $(2,818,000) and $(374,00,000), respectively.

Financing Activities, Net cash flows used in (provided by) financing activities were $1,383,000 and $(1,374,000) for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

Results of Operations
 
Selected Data
   
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
   
2011
   
2010
 
   
(In thousands except per share
and MBOE amounts)
 
Financial Results
           
Oil and Gas sales
 
$
10,982
   
$
9,955
 
Other
   
168
     
210
 
Total revenues and other
   
11,150
     
10,165
 
                 
Cost and expenses
   
9,571
     
9,519
 
Other expenses (income)
   
8,202
     
(1,411
)
Income tax benefit (expense)
   
(2,317
   
700
 
Net Income (loss)
   
(4,306
   
1,357
 
Earnings (loss) per common share – basic and diluted
 
$
(1.58
 
$
0.50
 
Weighted average number of shares outstanding-basic and diluted
   
2,717,691
     
2,717,691
 
                 
Operating Results
               
Adjusted EBITDAX (1)
 
$
(1,754
 
$
5,408
 
Sales volumes (MBOE)
   
204
     
199
 
                 
Average cost per MBOE:
               
Production (excluding transportation and taxes)
 
$
18,82
   
$
17.98
 
General and administrative
 
$
5.52
   
$
4.52
 
Depletion
 
$
14.70
   
$
15.95
 

(1)  
See Adjusted EBITDAX for a description of Adjusted EBITDAX, which is not a Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) measure, and a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDAX to income from operations before income taxes, which is presented in accordance with GAAP.
 
 
Financial Results

Net Income, in the first quarter of 2011, our net loss was $(4,306,000) thousand, or $(1.58) per share. This compares to net income of $1,357,000 thousand, or $0.50 per share, for the first quarter of 2010.
 
This decrease was primarily due to the impact of derivatives and a higher lease operating expenses which were partially offset by higher natural gas, oil and natural gas liquids ("NGLs") sales revenues due to higher oil and NGLs prices and lower depreciation depletion and amortization expenses.
 
Revenues, Volumes and Average Prices
Sales Revenues
 
   
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
In thousands except percentages
 
2011
   
2010
   
D vs. 2010
 
Gas sales
 
$
2,554
   
$
3,382
     
(24
)%
Oil sales
   
6,607
     
5,078
     
30
 
Natural gas liquid sales
   
1,821
     
1,495
     
22
 
Total
 
$
10,982
   
$
9,955
     
10
%

Our sales revenues for the first quarter of 2011 increased by 10% when compared to same period in 2010, due to higher prices received for oil and condensate and NGLs and by an increase in our oil and condensate and NGLs sales volumes.

Volumes and Average Prices
 
   
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
   
2011
   
2010
   
D vs. 2010
 
Natural Gas
                 
Sales volumes Mmcf
   
563.7
     
582.6
     
(3
)%
Average Price per Mcf (1)
 
$
4.53
   
$
5.81
     
(22
Total gas sales revenues (thousands)
 
$
2,554
   
$
3,382
     
(24
)%
                         
Crude Oil
                       
Sales volumes MBbl
   
70.8
     
65.3
     
8
%
Average Price per Bbl (1)
 
$
93.36
   
$
77.75
     
20
 
Total oil sales revenues (thousands)
 
$
6,607
   
$
5,078
     
30
%
                         
Natural gas liquids
                       
Sales volumes MBbl
   
39.1
     
36.4
     
7
%
Average Price per Bbl (1)
 
$
46.56
   
$
41.08
     
13
 
Total natural gas liquids sales revenues (thousands)
 
$
1,821
   
$
1,495
     
22
%

(1)
Amounts exclude the impact of cash paid/received on settled contracts, as we did not elect to apply hedge accounting
 
 
The company’s natural gas sales volumes decreased by 3%, crude oil sales volumes increased by 8% and natural gas liquids sales volumes by 7% for the first quarter of 2011 compared to the same period of 2010.

Our average natural gas price for the first quarter of 2011 decreased by 22%, or $(1.27) per Mcf, when compared to the same period of 2010. Our average crude oil price for the first quarter of 2011 increased by 20%, or $15.61 per Bbl, when compared to the same period of 2010. Our average natural gas liquids price for the first quarter of 2011 increased by 13%, or $5.47 per Bbl, when compared to the same period of 2010.
 
Analysis of Oil and Gas Operations Sales Revenues

The following table provides a summary of the effects of changes in volumes and prices on Isramco’s sales revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2011 compared to the same period of 2010.

In thousands
 
Natural Gas
   
Oil
   
Natural gas liquids
 
2010 sales revenues
 
$
3,382
   
$
5,078
   
$
1,495
 
Changes associated with sales volumes
   
(110
   
424
     
112
 
Changes in prices
   
(718
   
1,105
     
214
 
2011 sales revenues
 
$
2,554
   
$
6,607
   
$
1,821
 

Operating Expenses

   
Three Months Ended March 31,
In thousands except percentages
 
2011
   
2010
   
D vs. 2010
Lease operating expense, transportation and taxes
 
$
5,128
   
$
4,900
     
5
%
Depreciation, depletion and amortization
   
2,997
     
3,170
     
(5
Accretion expense
   
208
     
204
     
2
 
Loss from plug and abandonment
   
113
     
346
     
(67
General and administrative
   
1,125
     
899
     
25
 
   
$
9,571
   
$
9,519
     
1
%
 
 
During the first quarter of 2011, our operating expenses increased by 1% when compared to the first quarter of 2010, due to the following factors:

·  
Lease operating expense, transportation cost and taxes increased by 5%, or $228,000, in 2011 when compared to 2010.  This increase was the result of the costs associated with a plan we initiated last year to workover a number of our wells, along with the incremental costs involved in operating older, more mature fields that require additional repair and maintenance.  Finally, the higher oil and gas sale prices we received increased the taxes paid during 2011.  On a per unit basis, lease operating expenses (excluding transportation and taxes) increased by $0.84 per MBOE to $18.82 per MBOE in 2011 from $17.98 per MBOE in 2010.

·  
Depreciation, Depletion & Amortization (“DD&A”) of the cost of proved oil and gas properties is calculated using the unit-of-production method. Our DD&A rate and expense are the composite of numerous individual field calculations. There are several factors that can impact our composite DD&A rate and expense, including but not limited to field production profiles, drilling or acquisition of new wells, disposition of existing wells,  and reserve revisions (upward or downward) primarily related to well performance and commodity prices, and impairments. Changes in these factors may cause our composite DD&A rate and expense to fluctuate from period to period.  DD&A decreased by 5%, or $(173,000), in 2011 when compared to 2010, primarily due to higher prices (per MBOE) that impacted our estimated total reserves, which are the basis for the depletion calculation, and the impact of a 2010 impairment of $1,751,000 on the depletable base used to calculate DD&A, which were partially offset by increase in production volume that directly impacts the DD&A calculation. On a per unit basis, depletion expense decreased by $(1.24) per MBOE to $14.70 per MBOE in 2011 from $15.95 per MBOE in 2010.
 
·  
Accretion expense for asset retirement obligations slightly increased by 2%, or $4,000, in 2011 when compared to 2010.

·  
General and administrative expenses increased by 25%, or $226 thousand, in 2011 when compared to 2010 primarily due to higher professional services expenses.
 
Other income

   
Three Months Ended March 31,
In thousands except percentages
 
2011
   
2010
   
D vs. 2010
 
Interest expense, net
 
$
2,113
   
$
1,962
     
8
%
Net loss (gain) on derivative contracts
   
6,089
     
(3,373
)
   
(281
)
   
$
8,202
   
$
(1,411
)
   
(681
)
 
 
Interest expense.  Isramco’s interest expense increased by 8%, or $151 thousand, for the first quarter of 2011 compared to the same period of 2010.  This increase was primarily due to fees paid to Macquarie Bank, N.A in connection with assignment and transfer of Wells Fargo Senior Credit Facility which were partially offset by the lower average outstanding balance of the loans.
 
Net loss (gain) on derivative contracts. We enter into derivative commodity instruments to economically hedge our exposure to price fluctuations on our anticipated oil and natural gas production. Consistent with the prior year, we have elected not to designate any positions as cash flow hedges for accounting purposes. Accordingly, we recorded the net change in the mark-to-market value of these derivative contracts in our consolidated statement of operations.

At March 31, 2011, the Company had a $0.1 million commodity current derivative asset, and a $0.7 million derivative liability, of which $0.4 million was classified as current. For the three months ended March 31, 2011, the Company recorded a net derivative loss of $6.1 million ($0.4 million unrealized gain and a $6.5 million loss from net cash paid on settled contracts).

At March 31, 2010, the Company had a $6.7 million commodity derivative asset, of which $4.4 million was classified as current, and a $1 million non-current derivative liability. For the three months ended March 31, 2010, the Company recorded a net derivative gain of $3.4 million ($2 million unrealized gain and a $1.4 million gain from net cash received on settled contracts).
 
Adjusted EBITDAX.
 
To assess the operating results of Isramco, management analyzes income from operations before income taxes, interest expense, exploration expense, unrealized gain (loss) on derivative contracts and DD&A expense and impairments (“Adjusted EBITDAX”). Adjusted EBITDAX is not a GAAP measure. Isramco’s definition of Adjusted EBITDAX excludes exploration expense because exploration expense is not an indicator of operating efficiency for a given reporting period, but rather is monitored by management as a part of the costs incurred in exploration and development activities. Similarly, Isramco excludes DD&A expense and impairments from Adjusted EBITDAX as a measure of segment operating performance because capital expenditures are evaluated at the time capital costs are incurred. The Company’s definition of Adjusted EBITDAX also excludes interest expense to allow for assessment of segment operating results without regard to Isramco’s financing methods or capital structure. Adjusted EBITDAX is a widely accepted financial indicator of a company’s ability to incur and service debt, fund capital expenditures and make payments on its long term loans. Management believes that the presentation of Adjusted EBITDAX provides information useful in assessing the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.
 
However, Adjusted EBITDAX, as defined by Isramco, may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies. Therefore, Isramco’s consolidated Adjusted EBITDAX should be considered in conjunction with income (loss) from operations and other performance measures prepared in accordance with GAAP, such as operating income or cash flow from operating activities. Adjusted EBITDAX has important limitations as an analytical tool because it excludes certain items that affect income from continuing operations and net cash provided by operating activities. Adjusted EBITDAX should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for an analysis of Isramco’s results as reported under GAAP. Below is a reconciliation of consolidated Adjusted EBITDAX to income (loss) from operations before income taxes.

   
Three Months Ended March 31,
In thousands except percentages
 
2011
   
2010
 
Income from operations before income taxes
 
$
(6,623
 
$
2,057
 
Depreciation, depletion, amortization and impairment expense
   
2,997
     
3,170
 
Interest expense
   
2,113
     
1,962
 
Unrealized gain on derivative contract
   
(449
   
(1,985
)
Accretion Expenses
   
208
     
204
 
Consolidated Adjusted EBITDAX
 
$
(1,754
 
$
5,408
 

 
ITEM 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
 
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activity
 
We are exposed to various risks, including energy commodity price risk. If oil and natural gas prices decline significantly our ability to finance our capital budget and operations could be adversely impacted. We expect energy prices to remain volatile and unpredictable, therefore we have adopted a risk management policy which provides for the use of derivative instruments to provide partial protection against declines in oil and natural gas prices by reducing the risk of price volatility and the affect it could have on our operations. The type of derivative instrument that we typically utilize is swaps. The total volumes which we hedge through the use of our derivative instruments vary from period to period.
 
We are exposed to market risk on our open derivative contracts of non-performance by our counterparties. However, we do not expect such non-performance because our contracts are with major financial institutions with investment grade credit ratings. Each of the counterparties to our derivative contracts is a lender in our Senior Credit Agreement. We did not post collateral under any of these contracts as they are secured under the Senior Credit Agreement.
 
We are also exposed to interest rate risk on our variable interest rate debt. If interest rates increase, our interest expense would increase and our available cash flow would decrease. We continue to monitor our risk exposure as we incur future indebtedness at variable interest rates and will look to continue our risk management policy as situations present themselves. Periodically, we look to utilize interest rate swaps to reduce the exposure to market rate fluctuations by converting variable interest rates to fixed interest rates.
 
We account for our derivative activities under the provisions of ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging (ASC 815). ASC 815 establishes accounting and reporting that every derivative instrument be recorded on the balance sheet as either an asset or liability measured at fair value. See Item 1. Consolidated Financial Statements—Note 3, “Derivative contracts” for more details.

ITEM 4. Controls and Procedures
 
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures.
 
In accordance with Exchange Act Rule 13a-15 and 15d-15, we carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of management, including our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of March 31, 2011 to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in our reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Our disclosure controls and procedures include controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
 
There were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the most recent fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
 
 
PART II - Other Information
 
   
ITEM 1.
Legal Proceedings
   
 
None
   
ITEM 1A.
Risk Factors
 
None
 
ITEM 2.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
   
 
None
   
ITEM 3.
Default Upon Senior Securities
   
 
None
   
ITEM 4.
Removed and Reserved
   
 
None

ITEM 5.
Other Information
   
 
None
   
ITEM 6.
Exhibits

 
 
SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
 
 
ISRAMCO, INC
 
       
Date: May 10, 2011  
By:
/s/ HAIM TSUFF               
    HAIM TSUFF  
    CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER  
     (PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER)  
Date: May 10, 2011
By:
/s/ EDY FRANCIS        
   
EDY FRANCIS
 
    CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER  
    (PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL AND ACCOUNTING OFFICER)