Southwestern Energy Shares Popped: What You Need to Know (SWN)

Southwestern Energy Shares Popped: What You Need to Know

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Although we don't believe in timing the market or panicking over market movements, we do like to keep an eye on big changes -- just in case they're material to our investing thesis.

What: Shares of Southwestern Energy (NYSE: SWN ) popped today by as much as 11% today, after rival Chesapeake Energy (NYSE: CHK ) cut production in a move that sent natural gas prices skyward.

So what: Chesapeake's move was made in response to natural gas prices recently reaching 10-year lows, and the company also said it would cut spending on gas wells if prices failed to recover. Chesapeake CEO Aubrey McClendon said current levels are not "economically attractive for developing dry gas plays in the U.S."

Now what: The production cut shows that natural gas players, including Southwestern, are keenly aware of plunging prices lately and may also take similar actions to prop up the market. Chesapeake has been one of the leaders of the recent shale fracking boom that, coupled with a relatively mild winter, has contributed to oversupply within the industry. Overall, analysts remain unconvinced that this move will be more than a near-term reaction.

Interested in more info on Southwestern Energy? Add it to your Watchlist by clicking here.

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Fool contributor Evan Niu holds no position in any company mentioned. Click here to see his holdings and a short bio. Motley Fool newsletter services have recommended buying shares of Chesapeake Energy. Motley Fool newsletter services have recommended writing puts in Southwestern Energy. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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