A Look at Consol Energy’s Cash Flow Estimates

Wall Street analysts expect Consol Energy (CNX) to report year-over-year higher cash flows of ~$155.0 million in 4Q16, from ~$102.0 million in 4Q15. On a sequential basis, CNX’s estimated 4Q16 cash flow is lower than ~$163.0 million in 3Q16.

Consol Energy has reported much lower cash flows since 2Q15, mainly due to lower realized natural gas (UNG) prices. In 2Q15, it reported its lowest cash flow of ~$66.0 million since 2012.

For 4Q16, Wall Street analysts expect Consol Energy to report positive free cash flow of ~$94.0 million, or ~$41 per share.

Due to the steep downward trend in energy prices, most S&P 500 (SPY) energy companies have reported lower year-over-year cash flows. Southwestern Energy (SWN), EOG Resources (EOG), and Range Resources (RRC) reported $0.36 per share, $1.39 per share, and $0.18 per share, respectively, in cash flows for 3Q16.