NORTHERN OIL GAS INC

Previous wording

Because the rate of production from oil and natural gas properties generally declines as reserves are depleted, our future success depends upon our ability to economically find or acquire and produce additional oil and natural gas reserves. Except to the extent that we acquire additional properties containing proved reserves, conduct successful exploration and development activities or, through engineering studies, identify additional behind-pipe zones or secondary recovery reserves, our proved reserves will decline as our reserves are produced. We have added significant net wells and production from wellbore-only acquisitions, where we don’t hold the underlying leasehold interest that would entitle us to participate in future wells. Future oil and natural gas production, therefore, is highly dependent upon our level of success in acquiring or finding additional reserves that are economically recoverable. We cannot assure you that we will be able to find or acquire and develop additional reserves at an acceptable cost.

Current wording

Because the rate of production from oil and natural gas properties generally declines as reserves are depleted, our future success depends upon our ability to economically find or acquire and derive production from additional oil and natural gas reserves. Except to the extent that we acquire additional properties containing proved reserves, participate in successful exploration and development activities or, through engineering studies, identify additional behind-pipe zones or secondary recovery reserves, our proved reserves will decline as our reserves are produced. We have added significant net wells and production from wellbore-only acquisitions, where we don’t hold the underlying leasehold interest that would entitle us to participate in future wells. Future oil and natural gas production, therefore, is highly dependent upon our level of success in acquiring or finding additional reserves that are economically recoverable. We cannot assure you that we will be able to find or acquire and develop additional reserves at an acceptable cost.

Previous wording

DAPL poses a threat to the Missouri River and drinking water supply of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation. The temporary shutdown order was overturned by the U.S. Court of Appeals in August 2020. DAPL currently remains in operation while the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (“USACE”) conducts the EIS, which was released in draft form in September 2023 and was open for public comment until mid-December 2023. The date that the final EIS will be published is not yet known. Following completion of the EIS, the USACE will determine whether to grant DAPL an easement to cross the Missouri River or to shut down the pipeline, unless the U.S. Supreme Court overturns the lower courts’ order to conduct the EIS. Moreover, the EIS and/or the USACE’s easement decision may subsequently be challenged in court. As a result, a shut-down remains possible, and there is no guarantee that DAPL will be permitted to continue operations following the completion of the EIS and/or the DAPL Litigation. Any significant curtailment in gathering system or pipeline capacity, or the unavailability of sufficient third-party trucking or rail capacity, could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Current wording

The Dakota Access Pipeline (“DAPL”), a major pipeline transporting crude oil from the Williston Basin, is subject to ongoing litigation (the “DAPL Litigation”) that could threaten its continued operation. In July 2020, a federal district court ordered DAPL to be shut down pending the completion of an environmental impact statement (“EIS”) to determine whether the DAPL poses a threat to the Missouri River and drinking water supply of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation. The temporary shutdown order was overturned by the U.S. Court of Appeals in August 2020. DAPL currently remains in operation while the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (“USACE”) conducts the EIS, which was released in draft form in September 2023 and was open for public comment until mid-December 2023. The USACE received over 200,000 public comments. The date that the final EIS will be published is not yet known, although according to statements from the USACE the final EIS may be published in 2025. Following completion of the EIS, the USACE will determine whether to grant DAPL an easement to cross the Missouri River or to shut down the pipeline, unless the U.S. Supreme Court overturns the lower courts’ order to conduct the EIS. Moreover, the EIS and/or the USACE’s easement decision may subsequently be challenged in court. As a result, a shut-down remains possible, and there is no guarantee that DAPL will be permitted to continue operations following the completion of the EIS and/or the DAPL Litigation. Any significant curtailment in gathering system or pipeline capacity, or the unavailability of sufficient third-party trucking or rail capacity, could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Previous wording

A significant portion of our acreage is not currently held by production or held by operations. Unless production in paying quantities is established or operations are commenced on units containing these leases during their terms, the leases will expire. If our leases expire and we are unable to renew the leases, we will lose our right to participate in the development of the related properties. Drilling plans for these areas are generally in the discretion of third-party operators and are subject to change based on various factors that are beyond our control, such as: the availability and cost of capital, equipment, services and personnel; seasonal conditions; regulatory and third-party approvals; oil, NGL and natural gas prices; results of title work; gathering system and other transportation constraints; drilling costs and results; and production costs. As of December 31, 2023, we estimate that we had leases that were not developed that represented 8,442 net acres potentially expiring in 2024, 5,896 net acres potentially expiring in 2025, 1,595 net acres potentially expiring in 2026, 1,746 net acres potentially expiring in 2027, and 7,571 net acres potentially expiring in 2028 and beyond.

Current wording

A significant portion of our acreage is not currently held by production or held by operations. Unless production in paying quantities is established or operations are commenced on units containing these leases during their terms, the leases will expire. If our leases expire and we are unable to renew the leases, we will lose our right to participate in the development of the related properties. Drilling plans for these areas are generally in the discretion of third-party operators and are subject to change based on various factors that are beyond our control, such as: the availability and cost of capital, equipment, services and personnel; seasonal conditions; regulatory and third-party approvals; oil, NGL and natural gas prices; results of title work; gathering system and other transportation constraints; drilling costs and results; and production costs. As of December 31, 2024, we estimate that we had leases that were not developed that represented 5,743 net acres potentially expiring in 2025, 1,902 net acres potentially expiring in 2026, 3,074 net acres potentially expiring in 2027, 2,138 net acres potentially expiring in 2028, and 2,670 net acres potentially expiring in 2029 and beyond.

Previous wording

Inflation has been an ongoing concern in the U.S. since 2021. Ongoing inflationary pressures have resulted in and may result in additional increases to the costs of goods, services and personnel, which in turn cause our capital expenditures and operating costs to rise. Sustained levels of high inflation caused the U.S. Federal Reserve to increase the federal funds interest rate by 5.25% between March 2022 and December 2023 in an effort to curb inflationary pressure on the costs of goods and services. While inflationary pressures in the United States’ economy have begun to subside, we continue to be impacted by the increased federal funds interest rate, which could additionally have the effects of raising the cost of capital and depressing economic growth, either of which (or the combination thereof) could hurt the financial and operating results of our business. To the extent elevated inflation remains, we may experience further cost increases for our operations.

Current wording

Inflation has been an ongoing concern in the U.S. since 2021. Ongoing inflationary pressures have resulted in and may result in additional increases to the costs of goods, services and personnel, which in turn cause our capital expenditures and operating costs to rise. Sustained levels of high inflation caused the U.S. Federal Reserve to increase the federal funds interest rate by 5.25% to a high of 5.375% between March 2022 and July 2023 in an effort to curb inflationary pressure on the costs of goods and services. While inflationary pressures in the United States’ economy have begun to subside, inflation is still holding above the U.S. Federal Reserve’s target level. Further, despite the U.S. Federal Reserve decreasing the federal funds interest rate to 4.375% between September 2024 and December 2024, we continue to be impacted by the elevated federal funds interest rate, which could additionally have the effects of raising the cost of capital and depressing economic growth, either of which (or the combination thereof) could hurt the financial and operating results of our business. To the extent elevated inflation remains, we may experience further cost increases for our operations.

Previous wording

We depend on computer and telecommunications systems, and failures in our systems or cyber security attacks could significantly disrupt our business operations.

Current wording

We depend on computer and telecommunications systems, and failures in our systems or cybersecurity attacks could significantly disrupt our business operations.

Previous wording

We have entered into agreements with third parties for hardware, software, telecommunications and other information technology services in connection with our business. In addition, we have developed or may develop proprietary software systems, management techniques and other information technologies incorporating software licensed from third parties. It is possible that we, or these third parties, could incur interruptions from cyber security attacks, computer viruses or malware, or that third-party service providers could cause a breach of our data. We believe that we have positive relations with our related vendors and maintain adequate anti-virus and malware software and controls; however, any interruptions to our arrangements with third parties for our computing and communications infrastructure or any other interruptions to, or breaches of, our information systems could lead to data corruption, communication interruption, loss of sensitive or confidential information or otherwise significantly disrupt our business operations. Although we utilize various procedures and controls to monitor these threats and mitigate our exposure to such threats, there can be no assurance that these procedures and controls will be sufficient in preventing security threats from materializing. Furthermore, various third-party resources that we rely on, directly or indirectly, in the operation of our business (such as pipelines and other infrastructure) could suffer interruptions or breaches from cyber-attacks or similar events that are entirely outside our control, and any such events could significantly disrupt our business operations and/or have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. To our knowledge we have not experienced any material losses relating to cyber-attacks; however, there can be no assurance that we will not suffer material losses in the future.

Current wording

We have entered into agreements with third parties for hardware, software, telecommunications and other information technology services in connection with our business. In addition, we have developed or may develop proprietary software systems, management techniques and other information technologies incorporating software licensed from third parties. It is possible that we, or these third parties, could incur interruptions from cybersecurity attacks, computer viruses or malware, or that third-party service providers could cause a breach of our data. We believe that we have positive relations with our related vendors and maintain adequate anti-virus and malware software and controls; however, any interruptions to our arrangements with third parties for our computing and communications infrastructure or any other interruptions to, or breaches of, our information systems could lead to data corruption, communication interruption, loss of sensitive or confidential information or otherwise significantly disrupt our business operations. Although we utilize various procedures and controls to monitor these threats and mitigate our exposure to such threats, there can be no assurance that these procedures and controls will be sufficient in preventing security threats from materializing. Furthermore, various third-party resources that we rely on, directly or indirectly, in the operation of our business (such as pipelines and other infrastructure) could suffer interruptions or breaches from cyber-attacks or similar events that are entirely outside our control, and any such events could significantly disrupt our business operations and/or have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. To our knowledge we have not experienced any material losses relating to cyber-attacks; however, there can be no assurance that we will not suffer material losses in the future.

Previous wording

Approximately 31% of our estimated net proved reserves volumes were classified as proved undeveloped as of December 31, 2023. Development of these reserves may take longer and require higher levels of capital expenditures than we currently anticipate. Delays in the development of our reserves or increases in costs to drill and develop such reserves will reduce the PV-10 value of our estimated proved undeveloped reserves and future net revenues estimated for such reserves and may result in some projects becoming uneconomic. In addition, delays in the development of reserves could cause us to have to reclassify our proved reserves as unproved reserves.

Current wording

Approximately 27% of our estimated net proved reserves volumes were classified as proved undeveloped as of December 31, 2024. Development of these reserves may take longer and require higher levels of capital expenditures than we currently anticipate. Delays in the development of our reserves or increases in costs to drill and develop such reserves will reduce the PV-10 value of our estimated proved undeveloped reserves and future net revenues estimated for such reserves and may result in some projects becoming uneconomic. In addition, delays in the development of reserves could cause us to have to reclassify our proved reserves as unproved reserves.

Previous wording

Prior to drilling an oil or natural gas well, however, it is the normal practice in the oil and natural gas industry for the person or company acting as the operator of the well to obtain a preliminary title review of the spacing unit within which the proposed oil or natural gas well is to be drilled to ensure there are no obvious deficiencies in title to the well. Frequently, as a result of such examinations, certain curative work must be done to correct deficiencies in the marketability of the title, such as obtaining affidavits of heirship or causing an estate to be administered. Such curative work entails expense, and the operator may elect to proceed with a well despite defects to the title identified in the preliminary title opinion. Furthermore, title issues may arise at a later date that were not initially detected in any title review or examination. Any one or more of the foregoing could require us to reverse revenues previously recognized and potentially negatively affect our cash flows and results of operations. Our failure to obtain perfect title to our leaseholds may adversely affect our current production and reserves and our ability in the future to increase production and reserves.

Current wording

Prior to drilling an oil or natural gas well, however, it is the normal practice in the oil and natural gas industry for the person or company acting as the operator of the well to obtain a preliminary title review of the spacing unit within which the proposed oil or natural gas well is to be drilled to ensure there are no obvious deficiencies in title to the well. Frequently, as a result of such examinations, certain curative work must be done to correct deficiencies in the marketability of the title, such as obtaining affidavits of heir ship or causing an estate to be administered. Such curative work entails expense, and the operator may elect to proceed with a well despite defects to the title identified in the preliminary title opinion. Furthermore, title issues may arise at a later date that were not initially detected in any title review or examination. Any one or more of the foregoing could require us to reverse revenues previously recognized and potentially negatively affect our cash flows and results of operations. Our failure to obtain perfect title to our leaseholds may adversely affect our current production and reserves and our ability in the future to increase production and reserves.

Previous wording

Combating the effects of climate change continues to attract considerable attention in the United States and internationally, including from regulators, legislators, companies in a variety of industries, financial market participants and other stakeholders. This focus, together with changes in consumer and industrial/commercial behavior, preferences and attitudes with respect to the generation and consumption of energy, petroleum products and the use of products manufactured with, or powered by, petroleum products, may in the long-term result in (i) the enactment of climate change-related regulations, policies and initiatives (at the government, regulator, corporate and/or investor community levels), including alternative energy requirements, new fuel consumption standards, energy conservation and emissions reductions measures and responsible energy development, (ii) technological advances with respect to the generation, transmission, storage and consumption of energy (e.g., wind, solar and hydrogen power, smart grid technology and battery technology, increasing efficiency) and (iii) increased availability of, and increased consumer and industrial/commercial demand for, alternative energy sources and products manufactured with, or powered by, alternative energy sources (e.g., electric vehicles and renewable residential and commercial power supplies).

Current wording

Combating the effects of climate change continues to attract considerable attention in the United States and internationally, including from regulators, legislators, companies in a variety of industries, financial market participants and other stakeholders. This focus, together with changes in consumer and industrial/commercial behavior, preferences and attitudes with respect to the generation and consumption of energy, petroleum products and the use of products manufactured with, or powered by, petroleum products, may in the long-term result in (i) the enactment of climate change-related regulations, policies and initiatives (at the government, regulator, corporate and/or investor community levels), including alternative energy requirements, new fuel consumption standards, energy conservation, enhanced disclosure obligations and emissions reductions measures and responsible energy development, (ii) technological advances with respect to the generation, transmission, storage and consumption of energy (e.g., wind, solar and hydrogen power, smart grid technology and battery technology, increasing efficiency) and (iii) increased availability of, and increased consumer and industrial/commercial demand for, alternative energy sources and products manufactured with, or powered by, alternative energy sources (e.g., electric vehicles and renewable residential and commercial power supplies).

Previous wording

Additionally, certain segments of the investor community have recently expressed negative sentiment towards investing in the oil and natural gas industry. Climate change-related developments in particular may result in negative perceptions of the traditional oil and gas industry and, in turn, reputational risks associated with exploration and production activities. There have been efforts in recent years, for example, to influence the investment community, including investment advisors, insurance companies and certain sovereign wealth, pension and endowment funds and other groups, by promoting divestment of fossil fuel equities and pressuring lenders to limit funding and insurance underwriters to limit coverages to companies engaged in the extraction of fossil fuel reserves. Financial institutions may elect in the future to shift some or all of their investment into non-fossil fuel related sectors. There is also a risk that financial institutions may be required to adopt policies that have the effect of reducing the funding provided to the fossil fuel sector. Some investors, including certain pension funds, university endowments and family foundations, have stated policies to reduce or eliminate their investments in the oil and natural gas sector based on social and environmental considerations. With the continued volatility in oil and natural gas prices, and the possibility that interest rates will rise in the near term, increasing the cost of borrowing, certain investors have emphasized capital efficiency and free cash flow from earnings as key drivers for energy companies, especially shale producers.

Current wording

Additionally, certain segments of the investor community have expressed negative sentiment towards investing in the oil and natural gas industry. Climate change-related developments in particular may result in negative perceptions of the traditional oil and gas industry and, in turn, reputational risks associated with exploration and production activities. There have been efforts in recent years, for example, to influence the investment community, including investment advisors, insurance companies and certain sovereign wealth, pension and endowment funds and other groups, by promoting divestment of fossil fuel equities and pressuring lenders to limit funding and insurance underwriters to limit coverages to companies engaged in the extraction of fossil fuel reserves. Financial institutions may elect in the future to shift some or all of their investment into non-fossil fuel related sectors. There is also a risk that financial institutions may be required to adopt policies that have the effect of reducing the funding provided to the fossil fuel sector. Some investors, including certain pension funds, university endowments and family foundations, have stated policies to reduce or eliminate their investments in the oil and natural gas sector based on social and environmental considerations. With the continued volatility in oil and natural gas prices, and the possibility that interest rates will rise in the near term, increasing the cost of borrowing, certain investors have emphasized capital efficiency and free cash flow from earnings as key drivers for energy companies, especially shale producers. This may also result in a reduction of available capital funding for potential development projects, further impacting our future financial results.

Previous wording

In recent years, companies across all industries are facing increasing scrutiny from stakeholders related to their ESG and sustainability practices. Failure or a perception (whether or not valid) of failure to implement our ESG strategy or achieve sustainability goals we have set could damage our reputation, causing our investors or other stakeholders to lose confidence in our company, and negatively impact our operations. There can be no assurance that we will be able to accomplish any announced goals, initiatives, commitments or objectives related to our ESG strategy, as statements regarding the same reflect our current plans and aspirations and are not guarantees that we will be able to achieve them within the timelines we announce, or at all. We may determine in our discretion that it is not feasible or practical to implement or complete certain of our ESG goals, initiatives, policies or procedures based on cost, timing or other considerations. Our continuing efforts to research, establish, accomplish and accurately report on the implementation of our ESG strategy, including any ESG goals, may also create additional operational risks and expenses and expose us to reputational, legal and other risks. Moreover, while we create and publish voluntary disclosures regarding ESG matters from time to time, some of the statements in those voluntary disclosures may be based on hypothetical expectations and assumptions that may or may not be representative of current or actual risks or events or forecasts of expected risks or events, including the costs associated therewith. Such expectations and assumptions are necessarily uncertain and may be prone to error or subject to misinterpretation given the long timelines involved and the lack of an established single approach to identifying, measuring and reporting on many ESG matters. The occurrence of any of the foregoing could have a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition.

Current wording

Companies across all industries continue to face increasing scrutiny from stakeholders related to their ESG and sustainability practices. Failure or a perception (whether or not valid) of failure to implement our ESG strategy or achieve sustainability goals we may set could damage our reputation, causing our investors or other stakeholders to lose confidence in our company, and negatively impact our operations. There can be no assurance that we will be able to accomplish any announced goals, initiatives, commitments or objectives related to our ESG strategy, as statements regarding the same reflect our current plans and aspirations and are not guarantees that we will be able to achieve them within the timelines we announce, or at all. We may determine in our discretion that it is not feasible or practical to implement or complete certain of our ESG goals, initiatives, policies or procedures based on cost, timing or other considerations. Our continuing efforts to research, establish, accomplish and accurately report on the implementation of our ESG strategy, including any ESG goals, may also create additional operational risks and expenses and expose us to reputational, legal and other risks. Moreover, while we create and publish voluntary disclosures regarding ESG matters from time to time, some of the statements in those voluntary disclosures may be based on hypothetical expectations and assumptions that may or may not be representative of current or actual risks or events or forecasts of expected risks or events, including the costs associated therewith. Such expectations and assumptions are necessarily uncertain and may be prone to error or subject to misinterpretation given the long timelines involved and the lack of an established single approach to identifying, measuring and reporting on many ESG matters. The occurrence of any of the foregoing could have a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition.

Previous wording

Further, our business and growth opportunities require us to have strong relationships with various key stakeholders, including our stockholders, employees, suppliers, customers, local communities and others. We may face pressures from stakeholders, many of whom are increasingly focused on climate change, to prioritize sustainable energy practices, reduce our carbon footprint and promote sustainability while at the same time remaining a successfully operating public company. If we do not successfully manage expectations across these varied stakeholder interests, it could erode our stakeholder trust and thereby affect our brand and reputation. Such erosion of confidence could negatively impact our business through decreased demand and growth opportunities, delays in projects, increased legal action and regulatory oversight, adverse press coverage and other adverse public statements, difficulty hiring and retaining top talent, difficulty obtaining necessary approvals and permits from governments and regulatory agencies on a timely basis and on acceptable terms and difficulty securing investors and access to capital.

Current wording

Further, our business and growth opportunities require us to have strong relationships with various key stakeholders, including our stockholders, lenders, employees, suppliers, customers, local communities and others. We may face pressures from stakeholders to prioritize sustainable energy practices, reduce our carbon footprint and promote sustainability, or with respect to other ESG matters, while at the same time remaining a successfully operating public company. If we do not successfully manage expectations across these varied stakeholder interests, it could erode our stakeholder trust and thereby affect our brand and reputation. Such erosion of confidence could negatively impact our business through decreased demand and growth opportunities, delays in projects, increased legal action and regulatory oversight, adverse press coverage and other adverse public statements, difficulty hiring and retaining top talent, difficulty obtaining necessary approvals and permits from governments and regulatory agencies on a timely basis and on acceptable terms and difficulty securing investors and access to capital.

Previous wording

Our Revolving Credit Facility, the indenture the “2028 Notes Indenture” governing our 8.125% senior notes due 2028 (the “Senior Notes due 2028”), and the indenture the “2031 Notes Indenture” and, together with the 2028 Notes Indenture, the “Senior Notes Indentures”) governing our 8.750% senior notes due 2031 (the “Senior Notes due 2031” and, together with the Senior Notes due 2028, the “Senior Notes”), and any future indebtedness we incur may contain a number of restrictive covenants that will impose significant operating and financial restrictions on us, including restrictions on our ability to, among other things: declare or pay any dividend or make any other distributions on, purchase or redeem our equity interests or purchase or redeem certain debt; make loans or certain investments; make certain acquisitions and investments; incur or guarantee additional indebtedness or issue certain types of equity securities; incur liens; transfer or sell assets; create subsidiaries; consolidate, merge or transfer all or substantially all of our assets; and engage in transactions with our affiliates. In addition, the Revolving Credit Facility requires us to maintain compliance with certain financial covenants and other covenants. As a result of these covenants, we could be limited in the manner in which we conduct our business, and we may be unable to engage in favorable business activities or finance future operations or capital needs.

Current wording

Our Revolving Credit Facility, and the Senior Notes Indentures (as defined herein), and any future indebtedness we incur may contain a number of restrictive covenants that will impose significant operating and financial restrictions on us, including restrictions on our ability to, among other things: declare or pay any dividend or make any other distributions on, purchase or redeem our equity interests or purchase or redeem certain debt; make loans or certain investments; make certain acquisitions and investments; incur or guarantee additional indebtedness or issue certain types of equity securities; incur liens; transfer or sell assets; create subsidiaries; consolidate, merge or transfer all or substantially all of our assets; and engage in transactions with our affiliates. In addition, the Revolving Credit Facility requires us to maintain compliance with certain financial covenants and other covenants, including, among others, (i) maintaining a minimum current ratio (defined as consolidated current assets including unused amounts of the total commitments, but excluding non-cash assets under FASB Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging (“ASC 815”), divided by consolidated current liabilities excluding current non-cash obligations under ASC 815, current maturities under the Revolving Credit Facility and current maturities of any long-term debt (the “Current Ratio”)) of no less than 1.00 to 1.00 and (ii) maintaining a maximum net leverage ratio (defined as, as of the date of determination, the ratio of total net debt to EBITDAX (as defined in the Revolving Credit Facility) measured on a rolling four quarter basis (the “Net Leverage Ratio”)) of 3.50 to 1.00. EBITDAX, as defined in the Revolving Credit Facility, excludes, among other things, the effects of interest expense, depreciation, depletion and amortization, income tax, certain non-cash gains and impairments, and certain restructuring costs. As a result of the financial covenants and other covenants, we could be limited in the manner in which we conduct our business, and we may be unable to engage in favorable business activities or finance future operations or capital needs.

Previous wording

Holders of our common stock are only entitled to receive such cash dividends as our board of directors, in its sole discretion, may declare out of funds legally available for such payments. On August 1, 2023, our board of directors declared a cash dividend on our common stock in the amount of $0.38 per share. The dividend was paid on October 31, 2023 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on September 28, 2023. On October 30, 2023, our board of directors declared a cash dividend on our common stock in the amount of $0.40 per share. The dividend was paid on January 31, 2024 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on December 28, 2023. On February 5, 2024, our board of directors declared a cash dividend on our common stock in the amount of $0.40 per share. The dividend is payable on April 30, 2024 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on March 28, 2024. We cannot assure you, however, that we will pay dividends in the future in the current amounts or at all. Our board of directors may change the timing and amount of any future dividend payments or eliminate the payment of future dividends to our common stockholders at its discretion, without notice to our stockholders. Any future determination relating to our dividend policy will be dependent on a variety of factors, including our financial condition, earnings, legal requirements, our general liquidity needs, and other factors that our board of directors deems relevant. Our ability to declare and pay dividends to our stockholders is subject to certain laws, regulations, and policies, including minimum capital requirements and, as a Delaware corporation, we are subject to certain restrictions on dividends under the DGCL. Under the DGCL, our board of directors may not authorize payment of a dividend unless it is either paid out of our surplus, as calculated in accordance with the DGCL, or if we do not have a surplus, it is paid out of our net profits for the fiscal year in which the dividend is declared and/or the preceding fiscal year. Finally, our ability to pay dividends to our stockholders may be limited by covenants in any debt agreements that we are currently a party to, including our Revolving Credit Facility and the Senior Notes Indentures, or may enter into in the future. As a consequence of these various limitations and restrictions, we may not be able to make, or may have to reduce or eliminate at any time, the payment of dividends on our common stock. If as a result, we are unable to pay dividends, investors may be forced to rely on sales of their common stock after price appreciation, which may never occur, as the only way to realize a return on their investment. Any change in the level of our dividends or the suspension of the payment thereof could have a material adverse effect on the market price of our common stock.

Current wording

Holders of our common stock are only entitled to receive such cash dividends as our board of directors, in its sole discretion, may declare out of funds legally available for such payments. We have paid quarterly dividends since 2021. We cannot assure you, however, that we will pay dividends in the future in the current amounts or at all. Our board of directors may change the timing and amount of any future dividend payments or eliminate the payment of future dividends to our common stockholders at its discretion, without notice to our stockholders. Any future determination relating to our dividend policy will be dependent on a variety of factors, including our financial condition, earnings, legal requirements, our general liquidity needs, and other factors that our board of directors deems relevant. Our ability to declare and pay dividends to our stockholders is subject to certain laws, regulations, and policies, including minimum capital requirements and, as a Delaware corporation, we are subject to certain restrictions on dividends under the DGCL. Under the DGCL, our board of directors may not authorize payment of a dividend unless it is either paid out of our surplus, as calculated in accordance with the DGCL, or if we do not have a surplus, it is paid out of our net profits for the fiscal year in which the dividend is declared and/or the preceding fiscal year. Finally, our ability to pay dividends to our stockholders may be limited by covenants in any debt agreements that we are currently a party to, including our Revolving Credit Facility and the Senior Notes Indentures, or may enter into in the future. As a consequence of these various limitations and restrictions, we may not be able to make, or may have to reduce or eliminate at any time, the payment of dividends on our common stock. If as a result, we are unable to pay dividends, investors may be forced to rely on sales of their common stock after price appreciation, which may never occur, as the only way to realize a return on their investment. Any change in the level of our dividends or the suspension of the payment thereof could have a material adverse effect on the market price of our common stock.

Previous wording

The option counterparties to the capped call transactions are financial institutions, and we will be subject to the risk that one or more of the option counterparties may default or otherwise fail to perform, or may exercise certain rights to terminate their obligations, under the capped call transactions. Our exposure to the credit risk of the option counterparties will not be secured by any collateral. Global economic conditions have from time to time resulted in the actual or perceived failure or financial difficulties of many financial institutions. If an option counterparty to one or more capped call transactions becomes subject to insolvency proceedings, we will become an unsecured creditor in those proceedings with a claim equal to our exposure at that time under our transactions with that option counterparty. Our exposure will depend on many factors but, generally, the increase in our exposure will be correlated with increases in the market price or the volatility of our common stock. In addition, upon a default or other failure to perform, or a termination of obligations, by an option counterparty, we may suffer adverse tax consequences and more dilution than we currently anticipate with respect to our common stock. We can provide no assurances as to the financial stability or viability of any option counterparty.

Current wording

The option counterparties to the capped call transactions are financial institutions, and we are subject to the risk that one or more of the option counterparties may default or otherwise fail to perform, or may exercise certain rights to terminate their obligations, under the capped call transactions. Our exposure to the credit risk of the option counterparties is not secured by any collateral. Global economic conditions have from time to time resulted in the actual or perceived failure or financial difficulties of many financial institutions. If an option counterparty to one or more capped call transactions becomes subject to insolvency proceedings, we will become an unsecured creditor in those proceedings with a claim equal to our exposure at that time under our transactions with that option counterparty. Our exposure will depend on many factors but, generally, the increase in our exposure will be correlated with increases in the market price or the volatility of our common stock. In addition, upon a default or other failure to perform, or a termination of obligations, by an option counterparty, we may suffer adverse tax consequences and more dilution than we currently anticipate with respect to our common stock. We can provide no assurances as to the financial stability or viability of any option counterparty.

Previous wording

The current presidential administration, acting through the executive branch and/or in coordination with Congress, already has ordered or proposed, and could enact additional rules and regulations that restrict our ability to acquire federal leases in the future and/or impose more onerous permitting and other costly environmental, health and safety requirements.

Current wording

The executive branch and/or Congress could enact additional rules and regulations that restrict our ability to acquire federal leases in the future and/or impose more onerous permitting and other costly environmental, health and safety requirements.

Previous wording

We are affected by the adoption of laws, regulations and policy directives that, for economic, environmental protection or other policy reasons, could curtail exploration and development drilling for oil and gas. For example, in January 2021, President Biden signed an Executive Order directing the U.S. Department of the Interior (“DOI”) to temporarily pause new oil and gas leases on federal lands and waters pending completion of a comprehensive review of the federal government’s existing oil and gas leasing and permitting program. In June 2021, a federal district court enjoined the DOI from implementing the pause and leasing resumed subject to certain limitations. In August 2022, the U.S. Court of Appeals vacated and remanded the federal district court’s decision to block the pause on new oil and gas leasing, and the federal district court shortly thereafter enjoined the DOI from implementing the pause in the thirteen states that had challenged the pause. Litigation over leasing remains ongoing. Additionally, in July 2023, DOI announced a proposed rule to revise outdated fiscal terms of the onshore federal oil and gas leasing program, including for bonding requirements, royalty rates and minimum bids, with a final rule expected in April 2024. As a result, it is difficult to predict if and when such areas may be made available for future exploration activities. In addition, in November 2021, the EPA proposed a new rule that would impose more stringent methane emissions standards for new and modified sources in the oil and gas industry, and to regulate existing sources in the oil and gas industry for the first time. In November, 2022, the EPA issued the proposed rule supplementing the November 2021 proposed rule. Among other things, the November 2022 supplemental proposed rule removes an emissions monitoring exemption for small wellhead-only sites and creates a new third-party monitoring program to flag large emissions events, referred to in the proposed rule as “super emitters.” In December 2023, the EPA announced a final rule, which, among other things, requires the phase out of routine flaring of natural gas from newly constructed wells (with some exceptions) and routine leak monitoring at all well sites and compressor stations. Further, in September 2021, President Biden publicly announced the Global Methane Pledge, an international pact that aims to reduce global methane emissions to at least 30% below 2020 levels by 2030. These efforts, among others, are intended to support the Biden Administration’s stated goal of addressing climate change. Potential actions of Congress include imposing more restrictive laws and regulations pertaining to permitting, limitations on GHG emissions, increased requirements for financial assurance and bonding for decommissioning liabilities, and carbon taxes. Any of these executive, administrative or Congressional actions could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations by restricting the l…

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Current wording

We are affected by the adoption of laws, regulations and policy directives that, for economic, environmental protection or other policy reasons, could curtail exploration and development drilling for oil and gas. For example, in January 2021, the Biden Administration directed the U.S. Department of the Interior (“DOI”) to temporarily pause new oil and gas leases on federal lands and waters pending completion of a comprehensive review of the federal government’s existing oil and gas leasing and permitting program. Litigation over the leasing pause remains ongoing. Additionally, in April 2024, DOI finalized a rule to revise outdated fiscal terms of the onshore federal oil and gas leasing program, including for bonding requirements, royalty rates and minimum bids. However, in January 2025, President Trump issued executive orders (i) reversing the Biden Administration’s leasing pause and executive orders withdrawing certain lands and waters from federal oil and gas leasing, (ii) directing the heads of all federal agencies to facilitate the leasing, siting, and generation of domestic energy resources, including on federal lands and waters, and (iii) directing the heads of federal agencies to begin the processes to suspend, revise, or rescind all agency actions that impose an undue burden on the identification, development, or use of domestic energy resources. As a result, future implementation and enforcement of these rules and policies remains uncertain.

Previous wording

We have net operating loss (“NOL”) carryforwards that we may use to offset against taxable income for U.S. federal income tax purposes. At December 31, 2023, we had an estimated NOL carryforward of approximately $573.0 million for U.S. federal income tax purposes. In general, under Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “IRC”), a corporation that undergoes an “ownership change” can be subject to limitations on the use of its NOLs to offset future taxable income. We underwent an “ownership change” during 2018 and, as a result, the use of our existing NOL carryforwards is subject to limitations under Section 382, which are generally determined by multiplying the value of our stock at the time of the ownership change by the applicable long-term tax exempt rate as defined in Section 382 of the IRC. See Note 10 to our financial statements. Future changes in our stock ownership, some of which are outside of our control, could result in an additional ownership change under Section 382 of the IRC.

Current wording

We have net operating loss (“NOL”) carryforwards that we may use to offset against taxable income for U.S. federal income tax purposes. At December 31, 2024, we had an estimated NOL carryforward of approximately $447.2 million for U.S. federal income tax purposes. In general, under Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “IRC”), a corporation that undergoes an “ownership change” can be subject to limitations on the use of its NOLs to offset future taxable income. We underwent an “ownership change” during 2018 and, as a result, the use of our existing NOL carryforwards is subject to limitations under Section 382, which are generally determined by multiplying the value of our stock at the time of the ownership change by the applicable long-term tax-exempt rate as defined in Section 382 of the IRC. See Note 10 to our financial statements. Future changes in our stock ownership, some of which are outside of our control, could result in an additional ownership change under Section 382 of the IRC.

Previous wording

A new 1% U.S. federal excise tax could be imposed on us in connection with repurchases of our shares by us.

Current wording

We are subject to a 1% U.S. federal excise tax in connection with repurchases of our shares by us.

Previous wording

Whether and to what extent we could be subject to the excise tax in connection with repurchases of our shares will depend on a number of factors, including (i) the fair market value of the repurchase, (ii) the nature and amount of any equity issuances within the same taxable year of the repurchase, and (iii) the content of any future regulations and other guidance issued from the Treasury. The excise tax would cause a reduction in our cash available on hand, which could have a negative impact on our business and operations.

Current wording

Whether and to what extent we are subject to the excise tax in connection with repurchases of our shares depends on a number of factors, including (i) the fair market value of the repurchase, (ii) the nature and amount of any equity issuances within the same taxable year of the repurchase, and (iii) the content of any future regulations and other guidance issued from the Treasury. Any excise tax will cause a reduction in our cash available on hand, which could have a negative impact on our business and operations.

Previous wording

The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (“Dodd-Frank Act”) contains measures aimed at increasing the transparency and stability of the over-the-counter derivatives market and preventing excessive speculation. On January 14, 2021, the CFTC published a final rule imposing position limits for certain futures and options contracts in various commodities (including oil and gas) and for swaps that are their economic equivalents, though certain types of derivative transactions are exempt from these limits, provided that such derivative transactions satisfy the CFTC’s requirements for certain enumerated “bona fide” derivative transactions. The CFTC has also adopted final rules regarding aggregation of positions, under which a party that controls the trading of, or owns ten percent or more of the equity interests in, another party will have to aggregate the positions of the controlled or owned party with its own positions for purposes of determining compliance with position limits unless an exemption applies. These rules may affect both the size of the positions that we may hold and the ability or willingness of counterparties to trade with us, potentially increasing the costs of transactions. Moreover, such changes could materially reduce our access to derivative opportunities, which could adversely affect revenues or cash flow during periods of low commodity prices.

Current wording

The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (“Dodd-Frank Act”) contains measures aimed at increasing the transparency and stability of the over-the-counter derivatives market and preventing excessive speculation. On January 14, 2021, the CFTC published a final rule imposing position limits for certain futures and options contracts in various commodities (including oil and gas) and for swaps that are their economic equivalents, though certain types of derivative transactions are exempt from these limits, provided that such derivative transactions satisfy the CFTC’s requirements for certain enumerated “bona fide” hedging transactions and positions. The CFTC has also adopted final rules regarding aggregation of positions, under which a party that controls the trading of, or owns ten percent or more of the equity interests in, another party will have to aggregate the positions of the controlled or owned party with its own positions for purposes of determining compliance with position limits unless an exemption applies. These rules may affect both the size of the positions that we may hold and the ability or willingness of counterparties to trade with us, potentially increasing the costs of transactions. Moreover, such changes could materially reduce our access to derivative opportunities, which could adversely affect revenues or cash flow during periods of low commodity prices.

Previous wording

The full impact of the Dodd-Frank Act and related regulatory requirements on our business will not be known until the regulations are fully implemented and the market for derivatives contracts has adjusted. In addition, it is possible that the Biden Administration could expand regulation of the over-the-counter derivatives market and the entities that participate in that market through either the Dodd-Frank Act or the enactment of new legislation. Regulations issued under the Dodd-Frank Act (including any further regulations implemented thereunder) and any new legislation also may require certain counterparties to our derivative instruments to spin off some of their derivative activities to a separate entity, which may not be as creditworthy as the current counterparty. Such legislation and regulations could significantly increase the cost of derivative contracts (including from swap recordkeeping and reporting requirements and through requirements to post collateral which could adversely affect our available liquidity), materially alter the terms of derivative contracts, reduce the availability of derivatives to protect against risks we encounter, reduce our ability to monetize or restructure our existing derivative contracts, and increase our exposure to less creditworthy counterparties. We maintain an active hedging program related to commodity price risks.

Current wording

The full impact of the Dodd-Frank Act and related regulatory requirements on our business will not be known until the regulations are fully implemented and the market for derivatives contracts has adjusted. In addition, it is possible that the Biden Administration could expand regulation of the over-the-counter derivatives market and the entities that participate in that market through either the Dodd-Frank Act or the enactment of new legislation. Regulations issued under the Dodd-Frank Act (including any further regulations implemented thereunder) and any new legislation also may require certain counterparties to our derivative instruments to spin off some of their derivative activities to a separate entity, which may not be as creditworthy as the current counterparty. Such legislation and regulations could significantly increase the cost of derivative contracts (including from swap recordkeeping and reporting requirements and through requirements to post collateral which could adversely affect our available liquidity), materially alter the terms of derivative contracts, reduce the availability of derivatives to protect against risks we encounter, reduce our ability to monetize or restructure our existing derivative contracts, and increase our exposure to less creditworthy counterparties. We maintain an active hedging program related to commodity price risks. Such legislation and regulations could reduce trading positions and the market-making activities of our counterparties. If we reduce our use of derivatives as a result of legislation and regulations or any resulting changes in the derivatives markets, our results of operations may become more volatile and our cash flows may be less predictable, which could adversely affect our ability to plan for and fund capital expenditures or to make payments on our debt obligations. Finally, the Dodd-Frank Act was intended, in part, to reduce the volatility of oil and natural gas prices, which some legislators attributed to speculative trading in derivatives and commodity instruments related to oil and natural gas. Our revenues could therefore be adversely affected if a consequence of the legislation and regulations is to lower commodity prices. Any of these consequences could have a material adverse effect on our business, our financial condition, and our results of operations.

Previous wording

Hydraulic fracturing involves the injection of water, sand and chemicals under pressure into formations to fracture the surrounding rock and stimulate production. Hydraulic fracturing is used extensively by our third-party operating partners. The hydraulic fracturing process is typically regulated by state oil and natural gas commissions. Any federal or state legislative or regulatory changes with respect to hydraulic fracturing could cause us to incur substantial compliance costs or result in operational delays, and the consequences of any failure to comply by us or our third-party operating partners could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Hydraulic fracturing involves the injection of water, sand and chemicals under pressure into formations to fracture the surrounding rock and stimulate production. Hydraulic fracturing is used extensively by our third-party operating partners. The hydraulic fracturing process is typically regulated by state oil and natural gas commissions. Any federal or state legislative or regulatory changes with respect to hydraulic fracturing could cause us to incur substantial compliance costs or result in operational delays, and the consequences of any failure to comply by us or our third-party operating partners could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. Hydraulic fracturing typically is regulated by state gas and oil commissions or similar state agencies, but several federal agencies have conducted studies or asserted regulatory authority over certain aspects of the process. For example, in late 2016, the EPA released its final report on the potential impacts of hydraulic fracturing on drinking water resources, concluding that “water cycle” activities associated with hydraulic fracturing may impact drinking water resources under some circumstances. The EPA’s report did identify future efforts that could be taken to further understand the potential impacts of hydraulic fracturing to drinking water resources, including groundwater and surface water monitoring in areas with hydraulically fractured natural gas and oil producing wells. To date, the EPA has taken no further action in response to the 2016 report. Additionally, the EPA has asserted regulatory authority pursuant to the Safe Drinking Water Act UIC program over hydraulic fracturing activities involving the use of diesel and issued guidance covering such activities as well as published an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking regarding Toxic Substances Control Act reporting of the chemical substances and mixtures used in hydraulic fracturing.

Previous wording

Restrictions on GHG emissions that may be imposed, or the adoption and implementation of regulations that require reporting of GHG emissions or other climate-related information or otherwise seek to limit GHG emissions (including carbon pricing schemes) from our operating partners, could adversely affect our business and the oil and gas industry, including by restricting our ability to execute on our business strategy, requiring additional capital, compliance, operating costs, increasing the cost of oil and natural gas products and services, reducing demand for oil and natural gas products and services, reducing our access to financial markets, or creating greater potential for governmental investigations or litigation. For example, adoption of legislation or regulatory programs to reduce GHG emissions could require us to incur increased operating costs, such as costs to purchase and operate emissions control systems, to acquire emissions allowances or to comply with new regulatory requirements. Such regulatory initiatives could stimulate demand for alternative forms of energy that do not rely on combustion fossil fuels. Legislation or regulations that may be adopted to address climate change could also affect the markets for our products by making our products more or less desirable than competing sources of energy. To the extent that our products are competing with higher GHG emitting energy sources, our products would become more desirable in the market with more stringent limitations on GHG emissions. To the extent that our products are competing with lower GHG emitting energy sources such as solar and wind, our products would become less desirable in the market with more stringent limitations on GHG emissions. We cannot predict with any certainty at this time how these possibilities may affect our operations. Any GHG emissions legislation or regulatory programs applicable to power plants or refineries could also increase the cost of consuming, and potentially reduce demand for, the oil and natural gas we produce. Consequently, legislation and regulatory programs to reduce GHG emissions or that address climate change could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Restrictions on GHG emissions that may be imposed, or the adoption and implementation of regulations by governmental entities in the U.S. or other countries that require reporting of GHG emissions or other climate-related information or otherwise seek to limit GHG emissions (including carbon pricing schemes) from our operating partners, could adversely affect our business and the oil and gas industry, including by restricting our ability to execute on our business strategy, requiring additional capital, compliance, operating costs, increasing the cost of oil and natural gas products and services, reducing demand for oil and natural gas products and services, reducing our access to financial markets, or creating greater potential for governmental investigations or litigation. For example, adoption of legislation or regulatory programs to reduce GHG emissions could require us to incur increased operating costs, such as costs to purchase and operate emissions control systems, to acquire emissions allowances or to comply with new regulatory requirements. Such regulatory initiatives could stimulate demand for alternative forms of energy that do not rely on combustion fossil fuels. Legislation or regulations that may be adopted to address climate change could also affect the markets for our products by making our products more or less desirable than competing sources of energy. To the extent that our products are competing with higher GHG emitting energy sources, our products may become more desirable in the market with more stringent limitations on GHG emissions. To the extent that our products are competing with lower GHG emitting energy sources such as solar and wind, our products may become less desirable in the market with more stringent limitations on GHG emissions. We cannot predict with any certainty at this time how these possibilities may affect our operations. Any GHG emissions legislation or regulatory programs applicable to power plants or refineries could also increase the cost of consuming, and potentially reduce demand for, the oil and natural gas we produce. Consequently, legislation and regulatory programs to reduce GHG emissions or that address climate change could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

Additionally, the SEC issued a proposed rule in March 2022 that would mandate extensive disclosure of climate-related data, risks and opportunities, including financial impacts, physical and transition risks, related governance and strategy, and GHG emissions, for certain public companies. In part because the proposed rule’s ultimate date of effectiveness and the final form and substance of these requirements is not yet known, we cannot predict the costs of implementation or any potential adverse impacts resulting from the rulemaking. To the extent this rulemaking is finalized as proposed, we could incur increased costs relating to the assessment and disclosure of climate-related risks. In addition, enhanced climate disclosure requirements could accelerate the trend of certain stakeholders and lenders restricting or seeking more stringent conditions with respect to their investments in certain carbon-intensive sectors. See “Item 1. Business—Governmental Regulation and Environmental Matters” and “—Climate Change” for a further discussion of the laws and regulations related to GHGs and of climate change.

Current wording

Additionally, the SEC finalized a rule in March 2024 intended to enhance and standardize climate-related disclosures, that requires public companies to report on material climate-related risks that affect the company’s strategy, business model and outlook, and, for some larger companies, GHG emissions, if material. The Climate Disclosure Rule was voluntarily stayed by the SEC in April 2024 pending judicial review of petitions challenging the rule, and additional legal chanllenges are expected going forward. Accordingly, we cannot predict whether the Climate Disclosure Rule will be implemented as finalized, nor the costs of implementation or any potential resulting adverse impacts. Compliance with any enhanced climate disclosure obligations, including the Climate Disclosure Rule to the extent it becomes effective as finalized, may result in increased costs relating to the assessment and disclosure of climate-related risks. We may also face increased litigation risks related to disclosures made pursuant to such obligatoins. In addition, enhanced climate disclosure requirements could accelerate the trend of certain stakeholders and lenders restricting or seeking more stringent conditions with respect to their investments in certain carbon-intensive sectors. See “Item 1. Business—Governmental Regulation and Environmental Matters” and “—Climate Change” for a further discussion of the laws and regulations related to GHGs and of climate change.

Previous wording

Our certificate of incorporation authorizes us to issue 135,000,000 shares of common stock, of which 100,761,148 shares were issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2023. Any shares of common stock that we may issue in the future, including securities that are convertible into or exchangeable for, or that represent the right to receive, common stock or substantially similar securities, may dilute the ownership interests of our stockholders. In addition, future issuances of common stock under our Amended and Restated 2018 Equity Incentive Plan or other equity incentive plans that we may adopt in the future, or in connection with an acquisition or otherwise, would also dilute the percentage ownership held by our stockholders. The market price of our common stock could decline as a result of sales or issuances of a large number of shares of our common stock or similar securities in the market or the perception that such sales or issuances could occur.

Current wording

Our certificate of incorporation authorizes us to issue 270,000,000 shares of common stock, of which 99,113,645 shares were issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2024. Any shares of common stock that we may issue in the future, including securities that are convertible into or exchangeable for, or that represent the right to receive, common stock or substantially similar securities, may dilute the ownership interests of our stockholders. In addition, future issuances of common stock under our Amended and Restated 2018 Equity Incentive Plan or other equity incentive plans that we may adopt in the future, or in connection with an acquisition or otherwise, would also dilute the percentage ownership held by our stockholders. The market price of our common stock could decline as a result of sales or issuances of a large number of shares of our common stock or similar securities in the market or the perception that such sales or issuances could occur.

Previous wording

Our board of directors has the authority, without action or vote of our stockholders, to issue all or any part of our authorized but unissued shares of common stock, or issue shares of preferred stock, which may be convertible into shares of common stock. In the future, we may issue securities to raise cash for acquisitions, as consideration in acquisitions, to pay down debt, to fund capital expenditures or general corporate expenses, in connection with the exercise of stock options or to satisfy our obligations under our incentive plans. We may also acquire interests in other companies by using a combination of cash, our preferred stock and our common stock or just our common stock. We may also issue securities, including our preferred stock, that are convertible into, exchangeable for, or that represent the right to receive, our common stock. The occurrence of any of these events or any issuance of common stock upon conversion of our Convertible Notes or upon exercise of our outstanding warrants may dilute your ownership interest in our company, reduce our earnings per share and have an adverse impact on the price of our common stock.

Current wording

Our board of directors has the authority, without action or vote of our stockholders, to issue all or any part of our authorized but unissued shares of common stock, or issue shares of preferred stock, which may be convertible into shares of common stock. In the future, we may issue securities to raise cash for acquisitions, as consideration in acquisitions, to pay down debt, to fund capital expenditures or general corporate expenses, in connection with the exercise of stock options or to satisfy our obligations under our incentive plans. We may also acquire interests in other companies by using a combination of cash, our preferred stock and our common stock or just our common stock. We may also issue securities, including our preferred stock, that are convertible into, exchangeable for, or that represent the right to receive, our common stock. The occurrence of any of these events or any issuance of common stock upon conversion of our Convertible Notes may dilute your ownership interest in our company, reduce our earnings per share and have an adverse impact on the price of our common stock.