The Shale Scene - March 13, 2018

Russians are attempting to influence U.S. energy policy, markets The Russian government is using social media in an attempt to influence U.S. energy policy and disrupt the production of shale oil and gas from fracking, according to a report from the U.S. House Committee on Science, Space and Technology. READ MORE SHARE
Hess announces $1 billion share repurchase program Hess Corp. last week announced that it will repurchase $1 billion of its common stock by the end of 2018. CEO John Hess said the company is in position to increase cash returns to shareholders, partly because of the positive outlook for oil prices. READ MORE SHARE
	Dallas Federal Reserve establishes Energy Advisory Council The Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas has formed an Energy Advisory Council to provide guidance on emerging trends and issues affecting the energy industry. Industry executives from Texas, New Mexico and Louisiana will serve on the council. READ MORE SHARE
ExxonMobil's aggressive long-term growth reliant on Permian Through its acquisition of several Bass entities in 2017, ExxonMobil added an estimated resource of 5.4 billion oil-equivalent barrels in the Permian. The original resource estimate was 3.4 billion barrels at the time of the purchase. READ MORE SHARE
Baytex CEO: Eagle Ford to generate significant cash flow Expect more of the same from Baytex Energy Corp. across its Eagle Ford operations this year. After recording the highest netbacks since 2014 at its Eagle Ford acreage, Baytex said it will give the south Texas play the first call on 2018 capital. READ MORE SHARE
EPA issues year-in-review report for Pruitt’s first year The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has released a report detailing the first year under current Administrator Scott Pruitt. The 37-page document outlines the current EPA's agenda and accomplishments. READ MORE SHARE