# EDGAR Filing Document

**Accession Number:** 0000895126
**File Stem:** 0000895126-26-000011
**Filing Date:** 2026-2
**Character Count:** 667741
**Document Hash:** 8be427e8df97d38cf390e0602bbc7a6f
**Contains OCR:** False
**Source Format:** 

## Filing Content

## Filing Summary
**0000895126-26-000011.hdr.sgml**: 20260218

**ACCESSION NUMBER**: 0000895126-26-000011

**CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE**: 10-K

**PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT**: 126

**CONFORMED PERIOD OF REPORT**: 20251231

**FILED AS OF DATE**: 20260218

**DATE AS OF CHANGE**: 20260218

**FILER**: 

**COMPANY DATA:**
- **COMPANY CONFORMED NAME:** EXPAND ENERGY Corp
- **CENTRAL INDEX KEY:** 0000895126
- **STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION:** CRUDE PETROLEUM & NATURAL GAS [1311]
- **ORGANIZATION NAME:** 01 Energy & Transportation
- **EIN:** 731395733
- **STATE OF INCORPORATION:** OK
- **FISCAL YEAR END:** 1231

**FILING VALUES:**
- **FORM TYPE:** 10-K
- **SEC ACT:** 1934 Act
- **SEC FILE NUMBER:** 001-13726
- **FILM NUMBER:** 26645424

**BUSINESS ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 6100 N WESTERN AVE
- **CITY:** OKLAHOMA CITY
- **STATE:** OK
- **ZIP:** 73118
- **BUSINESS PHONE:** 4058488000

**MAIL ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 6100 NORTH WESTERN AVE
- **CITY:** OKLAHOMA CITY
- **STATE:** OK
- **ZIP:** 73118

**FORMER COMPANY:**
- **FORMER CONFORMED NAME:** CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORP
- **DATE OF NAME CHANGE:** 19941129

?xml version='1.0' encoding='ASCII'? exe-20251231

**UNITED STATES**

**SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION**

**Washington, D.C. 20549**

**FORM 10-K** 

☒ **ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934**

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025

☐**&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934**

For the transition period from <u>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</u> to <u>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</u>

**Commission File No. 001-13726**![Expand_Energy_logo JPG.jpg](exe-20251231_g1.jpg)

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION** 

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Oklahoma** | **Oklahoma** | **Oklahoma** | **73-1395733** |
| (State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) | (State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) | (State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) | (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) |
| **6100 North Western Avenue,** | **Oklahoma City,** | **Oklahoma** | **73118** |
| (Address of principal executive offices) | (Address of principal executive offices) | (Address of principal executive offices) | (Zip Code) |
|  |  | **(405)** | **848-8000** |
| (Registrant's telephone number, including area code) | (Registrant's telephone number, including area code) | (Registrant's telephone number, including area code) | (Registrant's telephone number, including area code) |

---

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:** | **Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:** | **Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:** |
| **Title of each class** | **Trading Symbol(s)** | **Name of each exchange on which registered** |
| Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share | EXE | The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC |
| Class A Warrants to purchase Common Stock | EXEEW | The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC |
| Class B Warrants to purchase Common Stock | EXEEZ | The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC |
| Class C Warrants to purchase Common Stock | EXEEL | The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC |

---

**Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None**

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes ☒&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; No ☐

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes ☐&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; No ☒

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has 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 ☒ No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted 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 such files). Yes ☒ No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer," "smaller reporting company," and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer ☒ Accelerated filer ☐ Non-accelerated filer ☐

Smaller reporting company ☐ Emerging growth company ☐

------

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management's assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. ☒

If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the correction of an error to previously issued financial statements. ☐

Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the registrant's executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to § 240.10D-1(b). ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes ☐ No ☒

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed all documents and reports required to be filed by Section 12, 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 subsequent to the distribution of securities under a plan confirmed by a court. Yes ☒ No ☐

The aggregate market value of our common stock held by non-affiliates on June 30, 2025 was approximately $19.6 billion. As of February 11, 2026, there were 240,398,260 shares of our common stock outstanding.

**__________________________________________**

**DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE**

Portions of the proxy statement for the 2026 Annual Meeting of Stockholders are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

------

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**FORM 10-K**

**TABLE OF CONTENTS**

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **<u>PART I</u>** | **Page** |
| <u>[Item 1.](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_19)</u> | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Business](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_19)</u> | <u>[12](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_19)</u> |
| <u>[Item 1A.](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_76)</u> | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Risk Factors](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_76)</u> | <u>[28](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_76)</u> |
| <u>[Item 1B.](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_79)</u> | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Unresolved Staff Comments](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_79)</u> | <u>[50](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_79)</u> |
| <u>[Item 1C.](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_82)</u> | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Cybersecurity](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_82)</u> | <u>[50](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_82)</u> |
| <u>[Item 2.](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_85)</u> | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Properties](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_85)</u> | <u>[51](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_85)</u> |
| <u>[Item 3.](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_88)</u> | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Legal Proceedings](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_88)</u> | <u>[52](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_88)</u> |
| <u>[Item 4.](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_91)</u>  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Mine Safety Disclosures](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_91)</u> | <u>[52](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_91)</u> |
|  | **<u>PART II</u>** |  |
| <u>[Item 5.](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_97)</u> | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_97)</u> | <u>[53](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_97)</u> |
| <u>[Item 6.](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_100)</u> | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Reserved](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_100)</u> | <u>[53](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_100)</u> |
| <u>[Item 7.](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_103)</u> | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_103)</u> | <u>[54](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_103)</u> |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Liquidity and Capital Resources](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_109)</u> | <u>[57](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_109)</u> |
|  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Results of Operations](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_112)</u> | <u>[62](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_112)</u> |
| <u>[Item 7A.](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_118)</u> | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_118)</u> | <u>[69](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_118)</u> |
| <u>[Item 8](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_121)</u>. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Financial Statements and Supplementary Data](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_121)</u> | <u>[70](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_121)</u> |
| <u>[Item 9.](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_214)</u> | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Changes In and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_214)</u> | <u>[119](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_214)</u> |
| <u>[Item 9A.](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_217)</u> | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Controls and Procedures](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_217)</u> | <u>[119](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_217)</u> |
| <u>[Item 9B.](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_220)</u> | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Other Information](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_220)</u> | <u>[120](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_220)</u> |
| <u>[Item 9C.](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_223)</u> | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspections](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_223)</u> | <u>[120](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_223)</u> |
|  | **<u>PART III</u>** |  |
| <u>[Item 10.](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_229)</u> | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_229)</u> | <u>[120](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_229)</u> |
| <u>[Item 11.](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_232)</u> | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Executive Compensation](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_232)</u> | <u>[120](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_232)</u> |
| <u>[Item 12.](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_235)</u> | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_235)</u> | <u>[120](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_235)</u> |
| <u>[Item 13.](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_238)</u> | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_238)</u> | <u>[120](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_238)</u> |
| <u>[Item 14.](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_241)</u> | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Principal Accountant Fees and Services](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_241)</u> | <u>[120](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_241)</u> |
|  | **<u>PART IV</u>** |  |
| <u>[Item 15.](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_247)</u> | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_247)</u> | <u>[121](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_247)</u> |
| <u>[Item 16.](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_250)</u> | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Form 10-K Summary](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_250)</u> | <u>[125](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_250)</u> |
| <u>[Signatures](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_253)</u> | <u>[Signatures](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_253)</u> | <u>[126](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_253)</u> |

---

------

**Explanatory Note and Definitions**

On October 1, 2024, Chesapeake Energy Corporation completed its previously announced merger with Southwestern Energy Company. In connection with the Southwestern Merger, Chesapeake Energy Corporation changed its name to Expand Energy Corporation.

Unless the context otherwise indicates, references to "us," "we," "our," "ours," "Expand Energy," the "Company" and "Registrant" refer to Expand Energy Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries. All monetary values, other than per unit and per share amounts, are stated in millions of U.S. dollars unless otherwise specified. The following are other abbreviations and definitions of certain terms used within this Annual Report on Form 10-K (this "Form 10-K" or this "report"):

"2025 Credit Facility" means the amended and restated credit facility entered into on September 30, 2025.

"Adjusted Free Cash Flow" (a non-GAAP measure) means net cash provided by operating activities (GAAP) less cash capital expenditures and contributions to investments, adjusted to exclude certain items management believes affect the comparability of operating results.

"ASC" means Accounting Standards Codification.

"ASU" means Accounting Standards Update.

"Bankruptcy Code" means Title 11 of the United States Code, 11 U.S.C. §§ 101–1532, as amended.

"Bankruptcy Court" means the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas.

"Bbl" or "Bbls" means one stock tank barrel, or 42 U.S. gallons liquid volume, used in reference to oil or other liquid hydrocarbons.

"Bcf" means billion cubic feet.

"Bcfe" means billion cubic feet of natural gas equivalent.

"BLM" means the Bureau of Land Management.

"Chapter 11 Cases" refers to the voluntary petitions for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code filed in the Bankruptcy Court by the Debtors.

"Chesapeake" means Chesapeake Energy Corporation, prior to the Southwestern Merger.

"Class A Warrants" means warrants to purchase 10 percent of the common stock (after giving effect to the Rights Offering, but subject to dilution by the Management Incentive Plan, the Class B Warrants, and the Class C Warrants), at an initial exercise price per share of $27.63. The Class A Warrants were exercisable from the Effective Date until February 9, 2026.

"Class B Warrants" means warrants to purchase 10 percent of the common stock (after giving effect to the Rights Offering, but subject to dilution by the Management Incentive Plan and the Class C Warrants), at an initial exercise price per share of $32.13. The Class B Warrants were exercisable from the Effective Date until February 9, 2026.

"Class C Warrants" means warrants to purchase 10 percent of the common stock (after giving effect to the Rights Offering, but subject to dilution by the Management Incentive Plan), at an initial exercise price per share of $36.18. The Class C Warrants were exercisable from the Effective Date until February 9, 2026.

"Completion" means the process of treating a drilled well followed by the installation of permanent equipment for the production of natural gas, oil or natural gas liquids, or in the case of a dry well, the reporting to the appropriate authority that the well has been abandoned.

"Confirmation Order" means the order confirming the Fifth Amended Joint Chapter 11 Plan of Reorganization of Chesapeake Energy Corporation and its Debtor Affiliates, Docket No. 2915, entered by the Bankruptcy Court on January 16, 2021.

------

**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

"Credit Agreement" means the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of September 30, 2025, which provides for the 2025 Credit Facility with the lenders and issuing banks party thereto from time to time, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent.

"DD&A" means depreciation, depletion and amortization.

"Debtors" means Chesapeake Energy Corporation prior to the Southwestern Merger, together with all of its direct and indirect subsidiaries that have filed the Chapter 11 Cases.

"Developed Acreage" means acres which are allocated or assignable to producing wells or wells capable of production.

"Dry Well" means a well found to be incapable of producing either natural gas or oil in sufficient quantities to justify completion as a natural gas or oil well.

"Effective Date" means February 9, 2021.

"ESG" means environmental, social and governance.

"Exploratory Well" means a well drilled to find a new field or to find a new reservoir in a field previously found to be productive of natural gas or oil in another reservoir. Generally, an exploratory well is any well that is not a development well, an extension well, a service well, or a stratigraphic test well.

"FASB" means the Financial Accounting Standards Board.

"Formation" means a succession of sedimentary beds that were deposited under the same general geologic conditions.

"Free Cash Flow" (a non-GAAP measure) means net cash provided by operating activities (GAAP) less cash capital expenditures.

"G&A" means general and administrative expenses.

"GAAP" means U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

"General Unsecured Claim" means any Claim against any Debtor that is not otherwise paid in full during the Chapter 11 Cases pursuant to an order of the Bankruptcy Court and is not an Administrative Claim, a Priority Tax Claim, an Other Priority Claim, an Other Secured Claim, a Revolving Credit Facility Claim, a FLLO Term Loan Facility Claim, a Second Lien Notes Claim, an Unsecured Notes Claim, an Intercompany Claim, or a Section 510(b) Claim.

"Gross Acres or Gross Wells" means the total acres or wells, as the case may be, in which a working interest is owned.

"LNG" means liquefied natural gas.

"LTIP" means the Expand Energy Corporation 2021 Long Term Incentive Plan.

"MBbls" means one thousand barrels of oil or other liquid hydrocarbons.

"MMBbls" means one million barrels of oil or other liquid hydrocarbons.

"Mcf" means thousand cubic feet.

"Mcfe" means one thousand cubic feet of natural gas equivalent, with one barrel of oil or NGL converted to an equivalent volume of natural gas using the ratio of one barrel of oil or NGL to six Mcf of natural gas.

"MMcf" means million cubic feet.

"MMcfe" means million cubic feet of natural gas equivalent.

"Net Acres or Net Wells" means the sum of the fractional working interests owned in gross acres or gross wells.

"NGL" means natural gas liquids.

------

**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

"NYMEX" means New York Mercantile Exchange.

"OPEC+" means the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries Plus.

"Petition Date" means June 28, 2020, the date on which the Debtors commenced the Chapter 11 Cases.

"Plan" means the Fifth Amended Joint Chapter 11 Plan of Reorganization of Chesapeake Energy Corporation and its Debtor Affiliates, attached as Exhibit A to the Confirmation Order.

"Play" means a portion of the exploration and production cycle following the identification by geologists and geophysicists of areas with potential natural gas, oil and NGL reserves.

"Present Value of Estimated Future Net Revenues" or "PV-10" (non-GAAP) means the estimated future gross revenue to be generated from the production of proved reserves, net of estimated production and future development costs, using prices calculated as the average natural gas and oil price during the preceding 12-month period prior to the end of the current reporting period, (determined as the unweighted arithmetic average of prices on the first day of each month within the 12-month period) and costs in effect at the determination date (unless such costs are subject to change pursuant to contractual provisions), without giving effect to non-property related expenses such as general and administrative expenses, debt service and future income tax expense or to depreciation, depletion and amortization, discounted using an annual discount rate of 10%.

"Price Differential" means the difference in the price of natural gas, oil or NGL received at the sales point and the NYMEX price.

"Prior Credit Facility" means the reserve-based credit facility entered into on December 9, 2022.

"Productive Well" means a well that is not a dry well. Productive wells include producing wells and wells that are mechanically capable of production.

"Proved Developed Reserves" means reserves that can be expected to be recovered through existing wells with existing equipment and operating methods or in which the cost of the required equipment is relatively minor compared to the cost of a new well.

"Proved Properties" means properties with proved reserves.

"Proved Reserves" has the meaning given to such term in Rule 4-10(a)(22) of Regulation S-X, which states in part proved natural gas and oil reserves are those quantities of natural gas and oil, which, by analysis of geoscience and engineering data, can be estimated with reasonable certainty to be economically producible – from a given date forward, from known reservoirs, and under existing economic conditions, operating methods, and government regulations – prior to the time at which contracts providing the right to operate expire, unless evidence indicates that renewal is reasonably certain, regardless of whether deterministic or probabilistic methods are used for the estimation.

"Proved Undeveloped Reserves (PUDs)" means proved reserves that are expected to be recovered from new wells on undrilled acreage, or from existing wells where a relatively major expenditure is required. Reserves on undrilled acreage are limited to those directly offsetting development spacing areas that are reasonably certain of production when drilled, unless evidence using reliable technology exists that establishes reasonable certainty of economic producibility at greater distances.

"Reservoir" means a porous and permeable underground formation containing a natural accumulation of producible natural gas and/or oil that is confined by impermeable rock or water barriers and is individual and separate from other reservoirs.

"Rights Offering" means the common stock rights offering for the Rights Offering Amount consummated by the Debtors on the Effective Date.

"SEC" means United States Securities and Exchange Commission.

"SOFR" means a rate equal to the secured overnight financing rate as administered by the SOFR Administrator, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York (or a successor administrator of the secured overnight financing rate).

------

**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

"Southwestern" means Southwestern Energy Company.

"Southwestern Merger" means Chesapeake's merger with Southwestern, which closed on October 1, 2024.

"Standardized Measure" means the discounted future net cash flows relating to proved reserves based on the means of the estimated future gross revenue to be generated from the production of proved reserves, net of estimated production and future development costs, using prices calculated as the average natural gas and oil price during the preceding 12-month period prior to the end of the current reporting period (determined as the unweighted arithmetic average of prices on the first day of each month within the 12-month period). The standardized measure differs from the PV-10 measure only because the former includes the effects of estimated future income tax expenses.

"Tcf" means trillion cubic feet.

"Tcfe" means trillion cubic feet of natural gas equivalent.

"Undeveloped Acreage" means acreage on which wells have not been drilled or completed to a point that would permit the production of economic quantities of natural gas and oil regardless of whether the acreage contains proved reserves.

"Unproved Properties" means properties with no proved reserves.

"Vine" means Vine Energy Inc.

"Warrants" means, collectively, the Class A Warrants, Class B Warrants and Class C Warrants.

"Working Interest" means the operating interest which gives the owner the right to drill, produce and conduct operating activities on the property and a share of production.

"WTI" means West Texas Intermediate.

"/Bbl" means per barrel.

"/Mcf" means per Mcf.

"/Mcfe" means per Mcfe.

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**Forward-Looking Statements**

This report includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act"). Forward-looking statements include our current expectations or forecasts of future events, including matters relating to armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine, instability in the Middle East and Venezuela and changes in China-Taiwan relations, along with the effects of the current global economic environment, and the impact of each on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows, actions by, or disputes among or between, members of OPEC+ and other foreign oil-exporting countries, market factors, market prices, our ability to meet debt service requirements, our ability to continue to pay cash dividends, the amount and timing of any cash dividends and our sustainability initiatives. Forward-looking and other statements in this Form 10-K regarding our environmental, social and other sustainability plans and goals are not an indication that these statements are necessarily material to investors or required to be disclosed in our filings with the SEC. In addition, historical, current, and forward-looking environmental, social and sustainability-related statements may be based on standards for measuring progress that are still developing, internal controls and processes that continue to evolve, and assumptions that are subject to change in the future. Forward-looking statements often address our expected future business, financial performance and financial condition, and often contain words such as "aim," "predict," "should," "expect," "could," "may," "anticipate," "intend," "plan," "ability," "believe," "seek," "see," "will," "would," "estimate," "forecast," "target," "guidance," "outlook," "opportunity" or "strategy."

Although we believe the expectations and forecasts reflected in our forward-looking statements are reasonable, they are inherently subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, most of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond our control. No assurance can be given that such forward-looking statements will be correct or achieved or that the assumptions are accurate or will not change over time. Particular uncertainties that could cause our actual results to be materially different than those expressed in our forward-looking statements include:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Reduced demand for natural gas, oil and natural gas liquids;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• negative public perceptions of our industry;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• competition in the natural gas and oil exploration and production industry;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the volatility of natural gas, oil and NGL prices, which are affected by general economic and business conditions, as well as increased demand for (and availability of) alternative fuels and electric vehicles;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• risks from regional epidemics or pandemics and related economic turmoil, including supply chain constraints;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• write-downs of our natural gas and oil asset carrying values due to low commodity prices;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• significant capital expenditures are required to replace our reserves and conduct our business;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• our ability to replace reserves and sustain production;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of natural gas, oil and NGL reserves and projecting future rates of production and the amount and timing of development expenditures;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• drilling and operating risks and resulting liabilities;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• our ability to generate profits or achieve targeted results in drilling and well operations;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• leasehold terms expiring before production can be established;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• risks from our commodity price risk management activities;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• uncertainties, risks and costs associated with natural gas and oil operations;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• our need to secure adequate supplies of water for our drilling operations and to dispose of or recycle the water used;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• pipeline and gathering system capacity constraints and transportation interruptions;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• risks related to our plans to participate in the global LNG value chain;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• terrorist activities and/or cyber-attacks adversely impacting our operations;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• risks from failure to protect personal information and data and compliance with data privacy and security laws and regulations;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• disruption of our business by natural or human causes beyond our control;

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• a deterioration in general economic, business or industry conditions;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the impact of inflation and commodity price volatility, including as a result of decisions made by OPEC+ and armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine, instability in the Middle East and Venezuela, and changes in China-Taiwan relations, along with the effects of the current global economic environment, on our business, financial condition, employees, contractors, vendors and the global demand for natural gas and oil and on U.S. and global financial markets;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• our inability to access the capital markets on favorable terms;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the limitations on our financial flexibility due to our level of indebtedness and restrictive covenants from our indebtedness;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• challenges with employee recruitment and retention and an increasingly competitive labor market;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• risks related to acquisitions or dispositions, or potential acquisitions or dispositions;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• security threats, including cybersecurity threats and disruptions to our business and operations from breaches of our information technology systems, or from breaches of information technology systems of third parties with whom we transact business;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• our ability to achieve and maintain sustainability certifications, goals and commitments;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• environmental and sustainability legislation and regulatory initiatives, including those addressing the impact of climate change or further regulating hydraulic fracturing, methane emissions, flaring or water disposal;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• federal and state tax proposals affecting our industry;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• risks related to an annual limitation on the utilization of our tax attributes, which was triggered upon the completion of the Southwestern Merger, as well as trading in our common stock, additional issuance of common stock, and certain other stock transactions, which could lead to an additional, potentially more restrictive, annual limitation; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• other factors that are described under *Risk Factors* in Item 1A of Part I of this Form 10-K.

There are numerous uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of proved reserves and in projecting future rates of production and timing of development expenditures, including many factors beyond our control. The reserve data represents only estimates which may differ from the actual quantities of natural gas, oil and NGL that are ultimately recovered. Furthermore, the estimated future net revenue from proved reserves and the associated present value are based upon certain assumptions, including prices, future production levels and costs that may not prove correct. Future prices and costs may be materially higher or lower than the prices and costs as of the date of any estimate. See *Supplemental Disclosures About Natural Gas, Oil and NGL Producing Activities* included in <u>[Item 8 of Part II](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_121)</u> of this report for further discussion of our reserve quantities.

We caution you not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this report, which speak only as of the filing date, and we undertake no obligation and have no intention to update this information, except as required by law. We urge you to carefully review and consider the disclosures in this report and our other filings with the SEC that attempt to advise interested parties of the risks and factors that may affect our business.

All forward-looking statements attributable to us are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

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**Summary Risk Factors**

The following is a summary description of material risks and uncertainties facing our Company.

**Risks Related to Operating our Business**

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Natural gas, oil and NGL prices fluctuate widely, and lower prices for an extended period of time are likely to have a material adverse effect on our business.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Conservation measures and technological advances could reduce demand for natural gas and oil.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Negative public perception regarding us or our industry could have an adverse effect on our operations.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The gas and oil exploration and production industry is very competitive; some of our competitors have greater financial and other resources than we do, and there is competition to attract and retain talent and competition over access to certain industry equipment.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Risks related to potential acquisitions or dispositions may adversely affect our business.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Government policies and support and market demand for low-carbon technologies.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If commodity prices fall or drilling efforts are unsuccessful, we may be required to record write-downs of the carrying value of our natural gas and oil properties.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Significant capital expenditures are required to replace our reserves and conduct our business.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If we are not able to replace reserves, we may not be able to sustain production.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The actual quantities of and future net revenues from our proved reserves may be less than our estimates.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Our development and exploratory drilling efforts and our well operations may not be profitable or achieve our targeted returns.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Certain of our undeveloped properties are subject to leases that will expire over the next several years unless production is established on units containing the acreage or the leases are renewed.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Our commodity price risk management activities may limit the benefit we would receive from increases in commodity prices, may require us to provide collateral for derivative liabilities and involve risk that our counterparties may be unable to satisfy their obligations to us.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Natural gas and oil operations are uncertain and involve substantial costs and risks.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Our ability to produce natural gas, oil and NGLs economically and in commercial quantities could be impaired if we are unable to acquire adequate supplies of water for our operations or are unable to dispose of or recycle the water we use economically and in compliance with environmental laws.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Our operations may be adversely affected by pipeline, trucking and gathering system capacity constraints and may be subject to interruptions that could adversely affect our cash flow.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Our business strategy includes participating in the global LNG value chain, which is dependent, in part, on the growing U.S. LNG export market, a highly regulated and capital-intensive industry with a number of inherent commercial and regulatory risks. U.S. LNG exports have helped drive domestic demand for natural gas, and, as a natural gas producer, we could be materially and adversely impacted by a deterioration in the U.S. LNG export industry, which could in turn reduce demand for natural gas. In addition, we may seek to more directly participate in the LNG value chain through direct marketing arrangements with LNG export facilities and/or end users, which could expose us to additional commercial risks associated with the global LNG markets.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The departure of key management personnel and the failure to attract and retain talent could adversely affect our operations.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Cyber-attacks targeting systems and infrastructure used by the gas and oil industry and related regulations may adversely impact our operations and, if we or our third-party providers are unable to obtain and maintain adequate protection for our key systems and data, our business may be harmed.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• We collect, process, store and use personal information and other data, and our actual or perceived failure to protect such information and data or comply with data privacy and security laws and regulations could damage our reputation and brand and harm our business and operating results.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• A deterioration in general economic, political, business or industry conditions would have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, liquidity and financial condition.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Regional epidemics or pandemics and related economic turmoil, including supply chain constraints, have affected, and could in the future adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

**Financial Risks Related to our Business**

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• We have significant capital needs, and our ability to access the capital and credit markets to raise capital on favorable terms is limited by industry conditions.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Restrictive covenants in certain of our existing and future debt instruments may limit our ability to finance our operations, fund our capital needs, respond to changing conditions and engage in other business activities that may be in our best interests.

**Legal and Regulatory Risks**

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• We are subject to extensive governmental regulation, which can change and could adversely impact our business.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Costs to comply with environmental, health and safety regulations and initiatives can be significant.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Increasing attention to sustainability matters and our ability to achieve and maintain sustainability certifications, goals and commitments may impact our business, financial results or stock price.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The taxation of independent producers is subject to change, and changes in tax law could increase our cost of doing business.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The completion of the Southwestern Merger in 2024 triggered an annual limitation on the utilization of our tax attributes, reducing our ability to offset future taxable income, which may result in an increase to income tax liabilities. In addition, trading in our common stock, additional issuance of common stock, and certain other stock transactions could lead to an additional, potentially more restrictive, annual limitation.

See *Risk Factors* included in <u>[Item 1](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_76)[A.](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_76)</u> of Part 1 of this report for further discussion of these risks.

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**PART I**

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **ITEM 1.** | **Business** |

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Unless the context otherwise requires, references to "Expand Energy," the "Company," "us," "we," "our" and "ours" in this report are to Expand Energy Corporation together with its subsidiaries. Our principal executive offices are located at 6100 North Western Avenue, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73118, and our main telephone number at that location is (405) 848-8000.

**Our Business**

Expand Energy is the largest independent natural gas producer in the U.S., based on net daily production, and is focused on responsibly developing an abundant supply of natural gas, oil and NGL to expand energy access for all. Our operations are located in Louisiana and Texas in the Haynesville and Bossier Shales ("Haynesville"), in Pennsylvania in the Marcellus Shale ("Northeast Appalachia") and in West Virginia and Ohio in the Marcellus and Utica Shales ("Southwest Appalachia") and include working interests in approximately 6,600 gross natural gas and oil wells.

On October 1, 2024, we completed the Southwestern Merger, creating a premier energy company that we believe is underpinned by a leading natural gas portfolio adjacent to the highest demand markets, premium inventory, a resilient financial foundation and an investment grade balance sheet. We believe that we are uniquely positioned to deliver affordable, lower-carbon energy to meet growing domestic and international demand while creating sustainable value for stakeholders. Since completing our merger with Southwestern, we've continued to focus on strengthening our balance sheet by reducing total debt by approximately $1.2 billion and upsized our 2025 Credit Facility capacity to $3.5 billion. In 2025, we joined the S&P 500 index and returned approximately $865 million to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases.

**Information About Us**

We make available, free of charge on our website at expandenergy.com*,* our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and any amendments to those reports as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish it to, the SEC. From time to time, we also post announcements, updates, events, investor information and presentations on our website in addition to copies of all recent news releases. Documents and information on our website are not incorporated by reference herein.

The SEC maintains a website at www.sec.gov that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers, including Expand Energy, that file electronically with the SEC.

**Business Strategy**

Our strategy is to create resilient shareholder value through the responsible development of our significant resource plays while continuing to be a leading provider of natural gas to growing markets. We continue to focus on improving margins through operating efficiencies, marketing and commercial efforts and financial discipline and improving our safety and sustainability performance. To accomplish these goals, we plan to allocate our human resources and capital expenditures to projects we believe offer the highest cash return on capital invested, to deploy leading drilling and completion technology throughout our portfolio, and to take advantage of acquisition and divestiture opportunities to strengthen our portfolio. We also intend to continue to invest in projects designed to reduce the environmental impact of our production activities.

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**Operating Areas**

We focus our acquisition, exploration, development and production efforts in the geographic operating areas described below.

*Haynesville -* Haynesville and Bossier Shales in Louisiana and Texas.

*Northeast Appalachia -* Marcellus Shale in Pennsylvania.

*Southwest Appalachia -* Marcellus and Utica Shales in Ohio and West Virginia.

**Well Data**

As of December 31, 2025, we held a working interest in approximately 6,600 (4,600 net) wells of which substantially all were classified as productive natural gas wells. During 2025, we operated 5,800 gross wells and held a non-operating working interest in 800 gross wells. We also completed 272 gross (202 net) wells as operator and participated in another 39 gross (1 net) well completed by other operators. We operate approximately 99% of our current daily production volumes. Additionally, we held an overriding or royalty interest in approximately 3,300 wells without a held working interest.

**Drilling Activity**

The following table sets forth the wells we completed or participated in during the periods indicated. During the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, we did not complete any productive or dry exploratory wells. In the table, "gross" refers to the total wells in which we had a working interest and "net" refers to gross wells multiplied by our working interest:

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| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **2025** | **2025** | **2025** | **2025** | **2024** | **2024** | **2024** | **2024** | **2023** | **2023** | **2023** | **2023** |
| | **Gross** | **%** | **Net** | **%** | **Gross** | **%** | **Net** | **%** | **Gross** | **%** | **Net** | **%** |
| Development: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Productive | 311 | 100 | 203 | 100 | 87 | 100 | 62 | 100 | 194 | 100 | 109 | 100 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Dry |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | 311 | 100 | 203 | 100 | 87 | 100 | 62 | 100 | 194 | 100 | 109 | 100 |

---

The following table shows the wells we completed or participated in by operating area:

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| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **2025** | **2025** | **2024** | **2024** | **2023** | **2023** |
| | **Gross Wells** | **Net Wells** | **Gross Wells** | **Net Wells** | **Gross Wells** | **Net Wells** |
| Haynesville | 139 | 105 | 48 | 41 | 84 | 51 |
| Northeast Appalachia | 112 | 59 | 38 | 20 | 78 | 37 |
| Southwest Appalachia | 60 | 39 | 1 | 1 |  |  |
| Eagle Ford |  |  |  |  | 32 | 21 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | 311 | 203 | 87 | 62 | 194 | 109 |

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As of December 31, 2025, we had 115 gross (88 net) wells in the process of being drilled or completed.

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**Production Volumes, Sales Prices, Production Expenses and Gathering, Processing and Transportation Expenses**

The following tables present information regarding our net production volumes, average sales price received for our production, and production and gathering, processing and transportation expenses per Mcfe for the periods indicated for our significant fields:

---

| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Production** | **Production** | **Production** | **Production** |
| | **Natural Gas (Bcf)** | **Oil (MMBbl)** | **NGL (MMBbl)** | **Total (Bcfe)** |
| **2025** | **2025** |  |  |  |
| Haynesville | 1095 |  |  | 1095 |
| Northeast Appalachia | 958 |  |  | 958 |
| Southwest Appalachia | 356 | 5.9 | 29.6 | 569 |
| Total Production | 2409 | 5.9 | 29.6 | 2622 |
| **2024** | **2024** |  |  |  |
| Haynesville | 561 |  |  | 561 |
| Northeast Appalachia | 662 |  |  | 662 |
| Southwest Appalachia | 98 | 1.2 | 7.8 | 152 |
| Total Production | 1321 | 1.2 | 7.8 | 1375 |
| **2023** | **2023** |  |  |  |
| Haynesville | 566 |  |  | 566 |
| Northeast Appalachia | 669 |  |  | 669 |
| Eagle Ford | 31 | 7.7 | 3.8 | 100 |
| Total Production | 1266 | 7.7 | 3.8 | 1335 |

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| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Average Sales Price of Production**<sup>(a)</sup> | **Average Sales Price of Production**<sup>(a)</sup> | **Average Sales Price of Production**<sup>(a)</sup> | **Average Sales Price of Production**<sup>(a)</sup> | **Expenses ($/Mcfe)** | **Expenses ($/Mcfe)** |
| | **Natural Gas ($/Mcf)** | **Oil ($/Bbl)** | **NGL ($/Bbl)** | **Total ($/Mcfe)** | **Production** | **GP&T** |
| **2025** | **2025** |  |  |  |  |  |
| Haynesville | $3.17 | $— | $— | $3.17 | $0.27 | $0.73 |
| Northeast Appalachia | $2.99 | $— | $— | $2.99 | $0.17 | $0.87 |
| Southwest Appalachia | $3.08 | $54.47 | $24.48 | $3.76 | $0.31 | $1.30 |
| Total | $3.08 | $54.47 | $24.48 | $3.23 | $0.24 | $0.91 |
| **2024** | **2024** |  |  |  |  |  |
| Haynesville | $2.14 | $— | $— | $2.14 | $0.30 | $0.58 |
| Northeast Appalachia | $1.88 | $— | $— | $1.88 | $0.15 | $0.77 |
| Southwest Appalachia | $2.42 | $60.41 | $27.44 | $3.42 | $0.32 | $1.33 |
| Total | $2.03 | $60.41 | $27.44 | $2.16 | $0.23 | $0.75 |
| **2023** | **2023** |  |  |  |  |  |
| Haynesville | $2.30 | $— | $— | $2.30 | $0.33 | $0.46 |
| Northeast Appalachia | $2.22 | $— | $— | $2.22 | $0.12 | $0.65 |
| Eagle Ford | $2.25 | $77.80 | $25.62 | $7.64 | $0.91 | $1.57 |
| Total | $2.25 | $77.80 | $25.62 | $2.66 | $0.27 | $0.64 |

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(a) Excludes the effect of hedging.

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**Natural Gas, Oil and NGL Reserves**

The tables below set forth information as of December 31, 2025, with respect to our estimated proved reserves, the associated estimated future net revenue, the present value of estimated future net revenue and the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows. None of the estimated future net revenue, PV-10 nor the standardized measure are intended to represent the current market value of the estimated natural gas, oil and NGL reserves we own. All of our estimated reserves are located within the United States.

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **December 31, 2025** | **December 31, 2025** | **December 31, 2025** | **December 31, 2025** |
| | **Natural Gas** | **Oil** | **NGL** | **Total** |
| | **(Bcf)** | **(MMBbl)** | **(MMBbl)** | **(Bcfe)** |
| Proved developed | 16395 | 35.0 | 328.5 | 18576 |
| Proved undeveloped | 6180 | 23.8 | 163.4 | 7304 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total proved<sup>(a)</sup> | 22575 | 58.8 | 491.9 | 25880 |

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Proved** <br>**Developed** | **Proved** <br>**Undeveloped** | **Total** <br>**Proved** |
| Standardized measure<sup>(b)</sup> |  |  | $17126 |
| Estimated future net revenue<sup>(b)</sup> | $27453 | $9549 | $37002 |
| Present value of estimated future net revenue (PV-10)<sup>(b)</sup> | $15047 | $4327 | $19374 |

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___________________________________________

(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Haynesville, Northeast Appalachia and Southwest Appalachia accounted for approximately 23%, 42% and 35%, respectively, of our estimated proved reserves by volume as of December 31, 2025.

(b)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Estimated future net revenue represents the estimated future revenue to be generated from the production of proved reserves, net of estimated production and future development costs, using pricing differentials and costs under existing economic conditions as of December 31, 2025, and assuming commodity prices as set forth below. For the purpose of determining prices used in our reserve reports, we used the unweighted arithmetic average of the prices on the first day of each month within the 12-month period ended December 31, 2025. The price used in our PV-10 measure was $3.39 per Mcf of natural gas and $65.34 per Bbl of oil and NGL, before basis differential adjustments. These prices should not be interpreted as a prediction of future prices, nor do they reflect the value of our commodity derivative instruments in place as of December 31, 2025. The amounts shown do not give effect to non-property-related expenses, such as corporate general and administrative expenses and debt service, or to depreciation, depletion and amortization. The present value of estimated future net revenue typically differs from the standardized measure because the former does not include the effects of estimated future income tax expense of $2.2 billion as of December 31, 2025.

Management uses PV-10, which is calculated without deducting estimated future income tax expenses, as a measure of the value of the Company's current proved reserves and to compare relative values among peer companies. We also understand that securities analysts and rating agencies use this measure in similar ways. While estimated future net revenue and the present value thereof are based on prices, costs and discount factors which may be consistent from company to company, the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows is dependent on the unique tax situation of each individual company. PV-10, a non-GAAP measure, should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows or any other measure of a company's financial or operating performance presented in accordance with GAAP.

A comparison of the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows to PV-10 is presented above. Neither PV-10 nor the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows purport to represent the fair value of our proved natural gas and oil reserves.

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As of December 31, 2025, our proved reserve estimates included 7,304 Bcfe of reserves classified as proved undeveloped, compared to 3,842 Bcfe as of December 31, 2024. Presented below is a summary of changes in our proved undeveloped reserves for 2025:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| | **Total** |
| | **(Bcfe)** |
| Proved undeveloped reserves, beginning of period | 3842 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Extensions and discoveries | 49 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Revisions of previous estimates | 4998 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Conversion to proved developed reserves | (1585) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Purchase of reserves-in-place |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sales of reserves-in-place |  |
| Proved undeveloped reserves, end of period | 7304 |

---

As of December 31, 2025, all PUDs were planned to be developed within five years of original recording. In 2025, we invested approximately $658 million to convert 1,585 Bcfe of PUDs to proved developed reserves. We added 49 Bcfe of PUD reserves through extensions and discoveries due to new PUDs added in Southwest Appalachia. We had a net upward revision in previous estimates of 4,998 Bcfe. The net upward revision primarily consisted of 5,430 Bcfe of upward revisions due to new PUDs that had improved economics and were in areas previously classified as proved. These upward revisions were partially offset by negative revisions due to development plan changes of 146 Bcfe, and by production forecast and commercial terms updates on existing PUD locations of 286 Bcfe.

The future net revenue attributable to our estimated PUDs was $9.5 billion, and the present value was $4.3 billion as of December 31, 2025. These values were calculated assuming that we will expend approximately $4.2 billion to develop these reserves ($2,044 million in 2026, $1,379 million in 2027, $700 million in 2028, $27 million in 2029 and $13 million in 2030). The amount and timing of these expenditures will depend on a number of factors, including actual drilling results, service costs, commodity prices and the availability of capital. Our developmental drilling schedules are subject to revision and reprioritization throughout the year resulting from unknowable factors such as commodity prices, unexpected developmental drilling results, title issues and infrastructure availability or constraints.

As of December 31, 2025, approximately 648 Bcfe, or 3%, of our total proved reserves were developed and non-producing.

Our ownership interest used for calculating proved reserves and the associated estimated future net revenue assumes maximum participation by other parties to our farm-out and participation agreements.

Our estimated proved reserves and the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows of the proved reserves as of December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, along with the changes in quantities and standardized measure of the reserves for each of the three years then ended, are shown in *Supplemental Disclosures About Natural Gas, Oil and NGL Producing Activities* included in <u>[Item 8 of Part II](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_121)</u> of this report. No estimates of proved reserves comparable to those included herein have been included in reports to any federal agency other than the SEC.

There are numerous uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of proved reserves and in projecting future rates of production and timing of development expenditures, including many factors beyond our control. The reserve data represents only estimates. Reserve engineering is a subjective process of estimating underground accumulations of natural gas and oil that cannot be measured exactly, and the accuracy of any reserve estimate is a function of the quality of available data and of engineering and geological interpretation and judgment. As a result, estimates made by different engineers often vary. Accordingly, reserve estimates often differ from the actual quantities of natural gas, oil and NGL that are ultimately recovered. Furthermore, the estimated future net revenue from proved reserves and the associated present value are based upon certain assumptions, including prices, future production levels and costs that may not prove correct. Future prices and costs may be materially higher or lower than the prices and costs as of the date of any estimate. See *Supplemental Disclosures About Natural Gas,* 

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*Oil and NGL Producing Activities* included in <u>[Item 8 of Part II](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_121)</u> of this report for further discussion of our reserve quantities.

*Reserves Estimation*

We engaged Netherland, Sewell & Associates, Inc., a third-party engineering firm, to audit our total proved reserves as of December 31, 2025. A copy of the audit letter issued by the engineering firm is filed with this report as Exhibit 99.1. The qualifications of the technical persons at the firm primarily responsible for overseeing the audit of our reserve estimates are set forth below.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Over 45 combined years of practical experience in the estimation and evaluation of reserves;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Texas and Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Licensed Professional Geoscientist in the State of Texas and Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Geology.

Our Corporate Reserves Department prepared our estimated proved reserves as of December 31, 2025 disclosed in this report. Those estimates were established utilizing standard geological and engineering technologies, which are generally accepted by the petroleum industry and were based upon the best available production, engineering and geologic data. These technologies, including computational methods, provide reasonable certainty in our reserves estimation and include technologies and inputs such as drilling results and well performance, decline curve analysis of wells in analogous reservoirs, material balance, volumetric calculation, statistical analysis, well logs, geologic maps and seismic data.

Our Manager – Corporate Reserves, who is in charge of our Corporate Reserves Department, is the technical person primarily responsible for overseeing the preparation of our reserve estimates and for coordinating any reserves work conducted by a third-party engineering firm. His qualifications include the following:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Over 18 years of practical experience in the oil and gas industry, with over 16 years in reservoir engineering;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Licensed Professional Engineer (Petroleum) in the State of Oklahoma;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Member in good standing of the Society of Petroleum Evaluation Engineers;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Masters of Business Administration.

We ensure that the key members of our Corporate Reserves Department have appropriate technical qualifications to oversee the preparation of reserve estimates. Our engineering technicians have a minimum of a four-year degree in mathematics, economics, finance or other technical/business/science field. We maintain a continuous education program for our engineers and technicians on new technologies and industry advancements as well as refresher training on basic skills and analytical techniques.

We maintain internal controls such as the following to ensure the reliability of reserves estimations:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• We follow comprehensive SEC-compliant internal policies to estimate and report proved reserves. Reserve estimates are made by experienced reservoir engineers or under their direct supervision. All material changes are reviewed and approved by the Manager – Corporate Reserves.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Corporate Reserves Department reviews our proved reserves at the close of each quarter.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Each quarter, Reservoir Managers, the Manager – Corporate Reserves, the Vice Presidents of each operating area and the Vice President of Corporate and Strategic Planning review all significant reserves changes and all new proved undeveloped reserves additions.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Corporate Reserves Department reports independently of our operations.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The five-year PUD development plan is reviewed and approved annually by the Manager – Corporate Reserves and the Vice President of Corporate and Strategic Planning.

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**Acreage**

The following table sets forth our gross and net developed and undeveloped natural gas and oil leasehold and fee mineral acreage as of December 31, 2025. Gross acres are the total number of acres in which we own a working interest. Net acres refer to gross acres multiplied by our fractional working interest.

---

| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Developed Leasehold** | **Developed Leasehold** | **Undeveloped Leasehold** | **Undeveloped Leasehold** | **Total** | **Total** |
| | **Gross Acres** | **Net Acres** | **Gross Acres** | **Net Acres** | **Gross Acres** | **Net Acres** |
| | **(in thousands)** | **(in thousands)** | **(in thousands)** | **(in thousands)** | **(in thousands)** | **(in thousands)** |
| Haynesville | 628 | 561 | 292 | 184 | 920 | 745 |
| Northeast Appalachia | 746 | 497 | 234 | 207 | 980 | 704 |
| Southwest Appalachia | 294 | 243 | 439 | 349 | 733 | 592 |
| Other<sup>(a)</sup> | 300 | 283 | 1295 | 1217 | 1595 | 1500 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | 1968 | 1584 | 2260 | 1957 | 4228 | 3541 |

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___________________________________________

(a) Includes 1.2 million net acres retained in the 2016 divestiture of our Devonian Shale assets, in which we retained all rights below the base of the Kope formation.

Most of our leases have a three- to five-year primary term, and we manage lease expirations to ensure that we do not experience unintended material expirations. Our leasehold management efforts include scheduling our drilling to establish production in paying quantities in order to hold leases by production, timely exercising our contractual rights to extend the terms of undeveloped leases we value, planning non-core divestitures to high-grade our lease inventory and letting some undeveloped leases expire that are no longer part of our development plans. We do not anticipate any material lease expirations within the next three years.

**Marketing**

The principal function of our marketing operations is to provide natural gas, oil and NGL marketing services, including commodity price structuring, securing and negotiating of gathering, hauling, storage, processing and transportation services, contract administration and nomination services for us and other interest owners in Expand Energy-operated wells. The marketing operations also provide other services for our exploration and production activities, including services to enhance the value of natural gas and oil production by aggregating volumes sold to various intermediary markets, end markets and pipelines. This aggregation allows us to attract larger, more creditworthy customers that in turn assist in maximizing the prices received.

Generally, our natural gas and NGL production are sold to purchasers under index contracts or daily spot price contracts. Under our index contracts, the price we receive is tied to published indices. Under our daily spot price contracts, we receive the daily spot price at the location where the gas or NGL are sold. Oil production is sold under short-to-long-term market-sensitive and spot price contracts using a differential to NYMEX WTI.

We have entered into long-term gathering, processing, and transportation contracts with various parties that require us to deliver fixed, determinable quantities of production over specified periods of time. Certain of our contracts require us to make payments for any shortfalls in delivering or transporting minimum volumes under these commitments. See <u>[Note 5](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_157)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for further discussion of commitments.

As of December 31, 2025, we had delivery commitments for gas and NGLs of approximately 7,800 Bcf and 42 MMBbls over the next 20 and 17 years, respectively. These delivery commitments vary each year. Additionally, we have delivery commitments of approximately 4 MMBbls of oil during 2026. We expect to fulfill these commitments primarily with production from our proved developed reserves.

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**Oilfield Services Vertical Integration**

The Company also operates drilling rigs and provides certain oilfield products and services, principally serving the Company's E&P operations through vertical integration.

**Major Customers**

For the year ended December 31, 2025, we had sales to one purchaser that accounted for 11% of our total revenues (before the effects of hedging). For the year ended December 31, 2024, we had no purchaser that accounted for 10% or greater of our total revenues (before the effects of hedging). For the year ended December 31, 2023, we had sales to two purchasers that accounted for approximately 17% and 10% of total revenues (before the effects of hedging). No other purchasers accounted for more than 10% of our total revenues during the years ended December 31, 2025 or 2023.

**Competition**

We compete with both major integrated and other independent natural gas and oil companies, as well as pipeline marketing affiliates and other marketing companies, in all aspects of our business to explore, develop and operate our properties and market our production. Some of our competitors may have larger financial and other resources than us. Competitive conditions may be affected by future legislation and regulations as the United States develops new energy and climate-related policies. In addition, some of our competitors may have a competitive advantage when responding to factors that affect demand for natural gas and oil production, such as changing prices, domestic and foreign political conditions, weather conditions, the price and availability of alternative fuels, the proximity and capacity of natural gas pipelines and other transportation facilities and overall economic conditions. We also face indirect competition from alternative energy sources, including wind, solar and electric power. We believe that our technological expertise, combined with our exploration, land, drilling and production capabilities and the experience of our management team, enables us to compete effectively.

**Public Policy and Government Regulation**

All of our operations are conducted onshore in the United States. Our industry is subject to a wide range of regulations, laws, rules, taxes, fees and other policy implementation actions that are under constant review for amendment or expansion. Numerous government agencies have issued extensive regulations that are binding on our industry, some of which carry substantial penalties for failure to comply. These laws and regulations increase the cost of doing business. We anticipate that compliance with existing laws and regulations governing our current operations will not have a material adverse effect on our capital expenditures, earnings or competitive position. However, additional proposals that affect the oil and gas industry are regularly considered by presidential administrations, Congress, the states, regulatory agencies and the courts, and we cannot predict when or whether any such proposals may become effective or the effect that such proposals may have on us. We actively monitor regulatory developments applicable to our industry in order to anticipate, design and implement required compliance activities and systems. The following is a summary of the existing laws, rules and regulations to which our operations are subject.

*Exploration and Production, Environmental, Health and Safety and Occupational Laws and Regulations*

Our operations are subject to federal, tribal, state, and local laws and regulations. These laws and regulations relate to matters that include, but are not limited to, the following:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• reporting of workplace injuries and illnesses;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• industrial hygiene monitoring;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• worker protection and workplace safety;

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• approval or permits to drill and to conduct operations;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• provision of financial assurances (such as bonds) covering drilling and well operations;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• calculation and disbursement of royalty payments and production taxes;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• seismic operations/data;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• location, drilling, cementing and casing of wells;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• well design and construction of pad and equipment;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• construction and operations activities in sensitive areas, such as wetlands, coastal regions or areas that contain endangered or threatened species, their habitats, or sites of cultural significance;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• method of well completion and hydraulic fracturing;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• water withdrawal;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• well production and operations, including processing and gathering systems;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• emergency response, contingency plans and spill prevention plans;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• emissions and discharges permitting;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• climate change;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• use, transportation, storage and disposal of fluids and materials incidental to natural gas and oil operations;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• surface usage, maintenance, monitoring and the restoration of properties associated with well pads, pipelines, impoundments and access roads;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• plugging and abandoning of wells; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• transportation of production.

In November 2021, the Environmental Protection Agency (the "EPA") proposed new regulations to establish comprehensive standards of performance and emission guidelines for methane and volatile organic compound emissions from new, modified, reconstructed and existing facilities in the oil and gas sector. The EPA issued a supplemental proposed rule in November 2022 to update, strengthen and expand its November 2021 proposed rule. The proposed rules sought to make the existing regulations in Subpart OOOOa more stringent and create a Subpart OOOOb to expand reduction requirements for new, modified, and reconstructed oil and gas sources, including standards focusing on certain source types that have never been regulated under the Clean Air Act ("CAA") (including intermittent vent pneumatic controllers, associated gas, and liquids unloading facilities). The November 2022 supplemental proposed rule removed an emissions monitoring exemption for small wellhead-only sites and created a new third-party monitoring program to flag large emissions events, referred to in the proposed rule as "super emitters". In addition, the proposed rules sought to establish "Emissions Guidelines," creating a Subpart OOOOc that would require states to develop plans to reduce methane emissions from existing sources that must be at least as effective as presumptive standards set by the EPA. In December 2023, the EPA issued the final rule, later published on March 8, 2024, which imposes more stringent requirements on the natural gas and oil industry, requiring all well sites and compressor stations to be routinely monitored for leaks and eliminating or minimizing emissions from common pieces of equipment used in oil and gas operations, such as process controllers, pumps, and storage tanks. Notably, the EPA updated the applicability date for Subparts OOOOb and OOOOc to December 6, 2022, meaning that sources constructed prior to that date will be considered existing sources with later compliance dates under state plans. The March 8, 2024 final rule gave states, along with federal tribes that wish to regulate existing sources, until March 2026 to develop and submit their plans for reducing methane from existing sources. Additionally, on January 17, 2025, the Department of Transportation's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (the "PHMSA") issued a prepublication version of a final rule that requires pipelines, underground natural gas storage facilities, and liquefied natural gas facilities to update leak detection and repair programs to require companies to use commercially available technologies to find and fix methane leaks from pipelines and other facilities. However, on January 20, 2025, the current Presidential Administration issued an Executive Order directing the heads of all federal agencies to identify and begin the process to suspend, revise, or rescind all agency actions that are unduly burdensome on the identification, development, or use of domestic energy resources. As a result, the PHMSA leak detection rule, which had not yet been published in the Federal Register, was withdrawn prior to formal publication as PHMSA currently evaluates the

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rule's requirements and cost-benefit analyses to ensure alignment with the current Presidential Administration's energy and other policies. Subsequently, in March 2025, the EPA announced its intention to reconsider the March 8, 2024 rule, including Subparts OOOOb and OOOOc, with a final rule expected in or around July 2026. Through a July 28, 2025 interim final rule, EPA extended the compliance deadlines for subparts OOOOb and OOOOc, later finalized on December 3, 2025. The December 2025 rule also gives states, along with federal tribes that wish to regulate existing sources, until January 2027 to develop and submit their plans for reducing methane emissions from existing sources. The final rule is subject to ongoing litigation but remains in effect. A broader reconsideration and potential full revision of the OOOOb and OOOOc rules was initially anticipated to be issued by EPA by September 2025 based on its Spring 2025 agenda, subject to delays. Consequently, the future implementation and enforcement of these rules remain uncertain at this time. These rules and policy priorities could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

The Inflation Reduction Act ("IRA"), signed into law in August 2022, provides significant funding and incentives for research, development and implementation of low-carbon energy production methods, carbon capture, and other programs directed at addressing climate change. The IRA also includes a Methane Emissions Reduction Program that amends the CAA to require the EPA to impose a Waste Emissions Charge ("WEC") on methane emissions from certain natural gas and oil sources that are already required to report under EPA's Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program. In May 2024, the EPA finalized revisions to the Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program for petroleum and natural gas facilities. Among other things, the final rule expanded the emissions events that are subject to reporting requirements to include "other large release events" and applied reporting requirements to certain new sources and sectors. The emissions reported under the Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program were to be the basis for any payments under the Methane Emissions Reduction Program in the IRA. Petitions for reconsideration to the EPA are pending and litigation in the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals has commenced. However, in January 2025, the current Presidential Administration issued an Executive Order directing the heads of all federal agencies to identify and begin the processes to suspend, revise, or rescind all agency actions that are unduly burdensome on the identification, development, or use of domestic energy resources. In addition, in March 2025, the current Presidential Administration signed Congress' Joint Resolution of Disapproval of the WEC, and in May 2025, EPA issued a final rule to remove the WEC regulations from the Code of Federal Regulations. In July 2025, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act delayed the effective date of the WEC until 2034. To the extent the WEC rule is again promulgated and implemented, the emissions fee and funding provisions of the law could increase operating costs within the oil and gas industry and accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels, which could in turn adversely affect our business and results of operations. In addition, in September 2025, EPA proposed to permanently remove program obligations from the Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program for most source categories and suspend program obligations for some sources subject to subpart W (which applies to emission sources in certain segments of the petroleum and natural gas industry) until 2034. Under the proposed rule, facilities in the natural gas distribution segment of subpart W would no longer report to EPA after reporting year 2024. Future implementation and enforcement of these rules remains uncertain at this time.

In January 2024, the previous Presidential Administration announced a temporary pause on pending decisions on exports of LNG to non-free trade agreement countries until the Department of Energy ("DOE") can update the underlying analyses for authorizations, including an assessment of the impact of greenhouse gas ("GHG") emissions. However, in January 2025, the current Presidential Administration issued an executive order directing the DOE to restart reviews of applications for approvals of LNG export projects as expeditiously as possible. Accordingly, the regulatory landscape governing the LNG industry remains subject to change.

In addition, several states and geographic regions in the United States have adopted legislation and regulations regarding climate change-related matters, and additional legislation or regulation by these states and regions, U.S. federal agencies, including the EPA, and/or international agreements to which the United States may become a party could result in increased compliance costs for us and our customers. Failure to comply with these laws and regulations can lead to the imposition of remedial liabilities, administrative, civil or criminal fines or penalties or injunctions limiting our operations in affected areas. In 2021, the previous Presidential Administration recommitted the United States to the Paris Agreement and announced a goal of reducing the United States' GHG emissions by 50-52% below 2005 levels by 2030. On January 20, 2025, the current Presidential Administration issued an Executive Order directing the immediate notice to the United Nations of the United States' withdrawal from the Paris Agreement and all other agreements made under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. Additionally, on January 7, 2026, the current Presidential Administration announced the formal withdrawal of the United States from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in a presidential

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memorandum. However, various state and local governments in the U.S. have publicly committed to furthering the goals of the Paris Agreement and many of these efforts at the local, state and international levels are expected to continue.

In April 2024, the European Union adopted a regulation to track and reduce methane emissions in the energy sector, including requiring new monitoring, reporting and verification measures to be applied by importers of oil, natural gas and coal into the European Union by January 1, 2027, and the "maximum methane intensity values" must be met by 2030 and every year thereafter. Each member state will have the power to impose administrative penalties for failure to comply and the standard will be mandatory for supply contracts signed after the law takes effect. In December 2025, the European Commission introduced certain simplifications to the methane rule's importer compliance requirements, subject to acceptance by individual EU country governments.

Moreover, multiple environmental laws provide for citizen suits, which allow environmental organizations to act in the place of the government and sue operators for alleged violations of environmental law. We consider the responsibility and costs of environmental protection and safety and health compliance fundamental parts of our business. To date, we have been able to plan for and comply with environmental, safety and health laws and regulations without materially altering our operating strategy or incurring significant unreimbursed expenditures. However, based on regulatory trends and increasingly stringent laws, as well as the increasing number of climate-related commitments by capital providers, our capital expenditures and operating expenses related to compliance with environmental and safety and health regulations have increased over time and may continue to increase. In addition, in March 2024, the SEC released its final rule requiring public companies to disclose information regarding material climate-related risks. However, the SEC voluntarily stayed the final rule in April 2024 pending judicial review of multiple petitions challenging the rules and it is unclear when the rule will become effective, if ever. Although future implementation of the final rule and impact on our business is uncertain, compliance with the rule, as finalized, may result in additional legal, accounting and financial compliance costs, make some activities more difficult, time-consuming and costly, and place strain on our personnel, systems and resources. For more information, see Item *1A. Risk Factors - "We are subject to extensive governmental regulation, which can change and could adversely impact our business."*

Our operations also are subject to conservation regulations, including the regulation of the size of drilling and spacing units or proration units, the number of wells that may be drilled in a unit, the rate of production allowable from gas and oil wells, and the unitization or pooling of gas and oil properties. In the United States, some states allow the statutory pooling or integration of tracts to facilitate exploration, while other states rely on voluntary pooling of lands and leases, which may make it more difficult to develop gas and oil properties. In addition, federal and state conservation laws generally limit the venting or flaring of natural gas, and state conservation laws impose certain requirements regarding the ratable purchase of production. These regulations limit the amounts of gas and oil we can produce from our wells and the number of wells or the locations at which we can drill. For further discussion, see Item *1A. Risk Factors - "We are subject to extensive governmental regulation, which can change and could adversely impact our business."*

Regulatory proposals in some states and local communities have been initiated to require or make more stringent the permitting and compliance requirements for hydraulic fracturing operations. Federal and state agencies have continued to assess the potential impacts of hydraulic fracturing, which could result in additional federal, state and/or local legislation and regulation. Further restrictions of hydraulic fracturing could make it difficult or impossible to conduct our drilling and completion operations, and thereby reduce the amount of natural gas, oil and NGLs that we are ultimately able to produce from our properties.

In April 2024, the BLM finalized regulations to reduce the waste of natural gas from gas and oil operations on federal and Tribal land. The rule became effective in June 2024. However, in May 2024, North Dakota, Texas, Montana, Wyoming and Utah challenged the rule in federal district court. In September 2024, the court granted a preliminary injunction enjoining BLM from enforcing the rule against the plaintiff states pending the outcome of the litigation, and the litigation remains ongoing. However, as previously noted, in January 2025, the current Presidential Administration issued an Executive Order directing the heads of all federal agencies to identify and begin the processes to suspend, revise, or rescind all agency actions that are unduly burdensome on the identification, development, or use of domestic energy resources. The BLM has given notice that it is in the process of considering revisions to the final rule and has delayed enforcement of two provisions included in the April 2024 rule until December 10, 2026. The relevant provisions subject to delayed enforcement imposed measurement device and

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sampling requirements for flares flowing between 1,050 and 6,000 Mcf per month and required operators to submit Leak Detection and Repair plans to the state BLM office; however, the obligation to repair leaks required under the regulations remains in effect. The state litigation against the April 2024 rule has been temporarily suspended pending the BLM's reconsideration of the April 2024 rule. Future implementation and enforcement of this rule is uncertain at this time. Any future restrictions surrounding onshore drilling and restrictions on the ability to obtain required permits could have a material adverse impact on our operations.

Obtaining environmental permits has the potential to delay the development and operation of natural gas and oil projects. Delays in obtaining permits or an inability to obtain new permits or permit modifications or renewals could inhibit our ability to execute our drilling and production plans. Failure to comply with applicable regulations or permit requirements could result in revocation of our permits, inability to obtain new permits and the imposition of fines and penalties.

For further discussion, see Item *1A. Risk Factors - "Natural gas and oil operations are uncertain and involve substantial costs and risks."*

**Title to Properties**

Our title to properties is subject to royalty, overriding royalty, carried, net profits, working and other similar interests and contractual arrangements customary in the natural gas and oil industry, to liens for current taxes not yet due and to other encumbrances. As is customary in the industry in the case of undeveloped properties, only cursory investigation of record title is made at the time of acquisition. Drilling title opinions are usually prepared before commencement of drilling operations. We believe we have satisfactory title to substantially all of our active properties in accordance with standards generally accepted in the natural gas and oil industry. Nevertheless, we are involved in title disputes from time to time that may result in litigation.

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**Operating Hazards and Insurance**

The natural gas and oil business involves a variety of operating risks, including the risk of fire, explosions, blow-outs, pipe failure, abnormally pressured formations and environmental hazards such as oil spills, natural gas leaks, ruptures or discharges of materials or pollutants. Any of these events could adversely affect our ability to conduct operations or result in substantial loss to us as a result of defending against claims by government agencies or third parties, injury or loss of life, damage to or destruction of property, natural resources and equipment, pollution or other environmental damage, clean-up responsibilities, regulatory investigation and penalties, and suspension of operations. Our horizontal and deep drilling activities involve greater risk of mechanical problems than vertical and shallow drilling operations.

We maintain a control of well insurance policy with a $50 million single well limit and a $100 million multiple wells limit that insures against certain sudden and accidental risks associated with drilling, completing and operating our wells. This insurance may not be adequate to cover all losses or exposure to liability. We also carry a $350 million comprehensive general liability umbrella insurance policy. In addition, we maintain a $25 million pollution liability insurance policy providing coverage for gradual pollution related risks and in excess of the general liability policy for sudden and accidental pollution risks. We provide workers' compensation insurance coverage to employees in all states in which we operate. While we believe these policies are customary in the industry, they do not provide complete coverage against all operating risks, and policy limits scale to our working interest percentage in certain situations. In addition, our insurance does not cover penalties or fines that may be assessed by a governmental authority. A loss not fully covered by insurance could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows. Our insurance coverage may not be sufficient to cover every claim made against us or may not be commercially available for purchase in the future.

**Facilities**

We own offices in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and lease an office building in Spring, Texas. Additionally, we own or lease various field offices in cities or towns in the areas where we conduct our operations. In 2026, we announced that we will move our Company headquarters to Spring, Texas.

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**Executive Officers**

The list below details, as of February 18, 2026, the name of each of our executive officers, together with his or her age and positions held over the past five years.

**Michael A. Wichterich, *Chairman of the Board, Interim President and Chief Executive Officer***

*Michael A. ("Mike") Wichterich*, 58, has served as Interim President and Chief Executive Officer since February 2026. He has served as Chairman of the Board of Directors since February 2021, including Executive Chairman from October 2021 until December 2022, and previously served as Interim Chief Executive Officer from April 2021 to October 2021. Mr. Wichterich is Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Three Rivers Operating Company LLC, a private exploration and production company with a focus in the Permian Basin. Prior to founding Three Rivers Operating, Mr. Wichterich served as the Chief Financial Officer of Texas American Resources, New Braunfels Utilities and Mariner Energy. Additionally, Mr. Wichterich began his career with PricewaterhouseCoopers in its energy auditing practice. Mr. Wichterich also serves as a board member of Grizzly Energy. He earned a B.B.A. from the University of Texas.

**Christopher W. Lacy, *Executive Vice President - General Counsel and Corporate Secretary***

*Christopher W. ("Chris") Lacy,* 48, has served as Executive Vice President – General Counsel and Corporate Secretary since October 2024. Prior to that time, he served as Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary at Southwestern Energy Company. Mr. Lacy joined Southwestern in 2014 as Chief Litigation Counsel and held various roles of progressively increasing responsibility. Before joining Southwestern, Chris was with Dewey & LeBouef, LLP and Ahmad, Zavitsanos, Anaipakos, Alavi & Mensing P.C. with a practice focused on high value and high stakes litigation. He has nearly 20 years of experience representing clients in the energy industry. Mr. Lacy earned his B.A. in Communication from the University of Texas and his juris doctorate from the University of Houston Law Center.

**Brittany Raiford, *Vice President, Interim Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer***

*Brittany Raiford,* 40, has served as Vice President, Interim Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since August 2025. Previously, Ms. Raiford served as Vice President – Treasurer for Expand Energy. Prior to joining Expand Energy, Ms. Raiford was Vice President – Investor Relations for Southwestern Energy. Ms. Raiford joined Southwestern Energy in 2011, serving in roles of increasing responsibility in accounting and finance. Ms. Raiford earned her B.B.A. in Accounting and M.S. in Finance from Texas A&M University.

**Daniel F. Turco, *Executive Vice President - Marketing and Commercial***

*Daniel F. ("Dan") Turco,* 46, has served as Executive Vice President – Marketing and Commercial since February 2025. Prior to joining Expand Energy, Mr. Turco served as Head of Global LNG Trading / Head of Asia Gas & Power Marketing in Singapore for ExxonMobil. Mr. Turco joined ExxonMobil in 2006 and has since held positions of increasing responsibility in upstream natural gas marketing and trading, spanning LNG, U.S., Europe and Asia gas markets. Mr. Turco began his career in oil and gas as an engineer. Mr. Turco earned an M.B.A. from Wilfrid Laurier University (Canada) and an Honors Bachelor of Applied Science, Civil Engineering & Management Science from the University of Waterloo (Canada).

**Joshua J. Viets, *Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer***

*Joshua J. ("Josh") Viets,* 47, has served as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer since February 2022. Prior to joining Expand Energy, Mr. Viets worked for 20 years in operational positions of increasing importance at ConocoPhillips (NYSE: COP). He most recently served as Vice President, Delaware Basin and previously held leadership positions in operations, engineering, subsurface, and capital project across the ConocoPhillips portfolio. Mr. Viets earned a Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Engineering from Colorado School of Mines.

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**Human Capital Resources**

*Employees*

We had approximately 1,600 employees as of December 31, 2025. None of our employees were covered by collective bargaining agreements, and our management works to maintain good relations with our employees.

*Values-Driven Culture*

At Expand Energy, our core values are the foundation of our company. Serving as the lens through which we evaluate business decisions, our commitment to these values, in both words and actions builds a stronger, healthier Expand Energy, benefiting all our stakeholders. Our core values are:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Stewardship - Safety and environmental stewardship require excellence in the ordinary

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Character - Integrity in every action

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Collaborate - Embrace diverse perspectives, confront the brutal facts, and speak with radical candor

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Learn - Commit to continuous improvement through humility, curiosity and constant learning

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Disrupt - Challenge the status quo to achieve better outcomes for energy consumers

We are committed to supporting inclusion within our organization. We believe building a fair, inclusive work culture is a key driver of our long-term success. We embrace the variety of backgrounds, perspectives and talents within our organization, leveraging strengths to pursue results and meaningful change for our company, employees, and stakeholders.

*Own Safety, Lead Safety*

Safety is more than a company metric. It is core to our commitment to leading a responsible energy future. We set and deliver robust safety standards, prioritizing the well-being of our employees and contractors. Our safety culture is championed by our Board of Directors and executive leadership team, owned by every employee and contractor and managed by our Health, Safety, Environmental and Regulatory (HSER) team. Maintaining a safe work environment and promoting safe behaviors is a commitment that each of our employees and contractors own together. We hold each other accountable to keeping our sites, our co-workers and our contractors safe.

One program that reinforces this philosophy of personal responsibility is Stop Work Authority. Through Stop Work Authority, every employee and contractor has the right, responsibility and authority to stop work if conditions are unsafe or could cause harm to the environment. Creating an incident-free work environment starts with setting clear expectations among employees and contractors regarding our Safe and Compliant Operations Policy, safety standards, and working to empower and equip individuals with the skills necessary to promote safety in their areas of work. The foundation of our safety culture is our *Own Safety, Lead Safety* motto, which encourages all workers on our locations to take personal responsibility for their safety and the safety of those around them. We have transitioned companywide to our Serious Incident and Fatality prevention model for more proactive hazard identification of exposures that could lead to a life-altering injury with verification processes that check for controls in place for these exposures.

Every year our HSER team provides targeted trainings based on safety performance analysis, job functions and location specific factors. Our training program includes a mix of in-person and virtual training, with greater emphasis on in-person instruction and includes all employees. Job-specific learning paths aim to exceed regulatory requirements and ensure employees are holistically prepared to execute their job functions safely and responsibly.

Expand Energy's training philosophy values contractor training in the same manner as employees. We design contractor training to align as much as possible with employee training, encouraging synchronized knowledge sharing and understanding, critical to decreasing our cumulative incidents.

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*Ethical Business Conduct*

Expand Energy works hard to maintain the confidence of our stakeholders. We earn this trust by striving to act in an ethical manner to protect our people, the environment and the communities where we operate. This starts by driving accountability through all levels of the company and having systems in place to uphold our high standards for conduct. Strong governance practices begin at the top, providing our organization with clear guidelines to define standards for ethical behavior at every level. Each Expand Energy director, officer or employee, regardless of position, must abide by Expand Energy's Code of Business Conduct (the "Code"), which is structured around our core values. Each year all employees are required to complete comprehensive training on the Code and related policies, the high standards expected of them, including that they will report actual or potential ethics concerns or Code violations.

*Employee Wellness and Benefits*

Supporting the individual well-being of our employees is foundational to our safety culture and success as a company. We champion healthy lifestyles and offer health resources. Across the company, employees are offered preventive programs and are encouraged to complete an annual screening for common health-related issues. We support our employees' and their families' health by offering full medical, dental, vision, prescription drug insurance for employees and their families, life insurance, short- and long-term disability coverage, and health savings and dependent care flexible spending accounts. We offer parental leave for the birth or adoption of a child, an adoption assistance program, alternate work schedules, a 401(k) savings plan with company match and discretionary contributions, flexible work hours, generous paid time off, including a well-being day, where each employee is encouraged to relax and recharge for a day once per calendar year and 12 company-paid holidays, as well as tuition reimbursement. Additionally, Expand Energy provides employees and their families access to a confidential Employee Assistance Program, which connects employees with trained counselors and other support professionals.

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| **Item 1A.** | ***Risk Factors*** |

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*There are numerous factors that affect our business and results of operations, many of which are beyond our control. The following is a description of factors that we consider to be material and that might cause our future results to differ materially from those currently expected. The risks described below are not the only risks facing our company. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial may also affect our business operations. If any of these risks actually occur, our business, financial position, results of operations, cash flows, reserves and/or our ability to pay our debts and other liabilities could suffer, the trading price and liquidity of our securities could decline and you may lose all or part of your investment in our securities.*

**Risks Related to Operating our Business**

***Natural gas, oil and NGL prices fluctuate widely, and lower prices for an extended period of time are likely to have a material adverse effect on our business.***

Our revenues, results of operations, profitability, liquidity, leverage ratio and ability to grow and invest in capital expenditures depend primarily upon the prices we receive for the natural gas, oil and NGL we sell. We incur substantial expenditures to replace reserves, sustain production and fund our business plans. Low natural gas, oil and NGL prices can negatively affect the amount of cash available for capital expenditures, debt service and debt repayment and our ability to borrow money or raise additional capital and, as a result, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and reserves. In addition, periods of low natural gas and oil prices may result in a reduction of the carrying value of our natural gas and oil properties due to recognizing impairments in proved and unproved properties.

Volatility in natural gas, oil and NGL prices may result from factors that are beyond our control, including:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• domestic and worldwide supplies of natural gas, oil and NGL, including U.S. inventories of natural gas and oil reserves;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• weather conditions;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• changes in the level of consumer and industrial demand, including impacts from global or national health events and concerns;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the price and availability of alternative fuels;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• technological advances affecting energy consumption;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the nature and extent of domestic and international conservation and sustainability initiatives;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the availability, proximity and capacity of pipelines, other transportation facilities and processing facilities;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the level and effect of trading in commodity futures markets, including by commodity price speculators and others;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• U.S. exports of natural gas, oil, liquefied natural gas and NGL;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the price and level of foreign imports;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• changes in U.S. trade relations and policies;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the nature and extent of domestic and foreign governmental regulations and taxes;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the ability of the members of OPEC+ and others to agree to and maintain oil price and production controls;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• increased use of competing energy products, including alternative energy sources;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• political instability or armed conflict in natural gas and oil producing regions, including in connection with the continued armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine, instability in the Middle East and Venezuela, and changes in China-Taiwan relations;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• acts of terrorism; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• domestic and global economic and political conditions.

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These factors and the volatility of the energy markets make it extremely difficult to predict future natural gas, oil and NGL price movements. In addition, any prolonged period of lower prices could reduce the quantities of reserves that we may economically produce.

***Conservation measures and technological advances could reduce demand for natural gas and oil.***

Fuel conservation measures, alternative fuel requirements, increasing consumer demand for alternatives to natural gas and oil, technological advances in fuel economy and energy generation devices could reduce demand for natural gas and oil. The impact of the changing demand for natural gas and oil could adversely impact our earnings, cash flows and financial position.

***Negative public perception regarding us or our industry could have an adverse effect on our operations.***

Negative public perception regarding us or our industry resulting from, among other things, concerns raised by advocacy groups about hydraulic fracturing, waste disposal, oil spills, seismic activity, climate change, explosions of natural gas transmission lines and the development and operation of pipelines and other midstream facilities may lead to new state and federal safety and environmental laws, regulations, guidelines and enforcement priorities. Additionally, environmental groups, landowners, local groups and other advocates may oppose our operations or those of our midstream transportation providers, encourage capital providers to divest of their interests in us or our industry, intervene in regulatory or administrative proceedings involving our assets or those of our midstream transportation providers, or file lawsuits or other actions designed to prevent, disrupt or delay the development or operation of our assets and business or those of our midstream transportation providers. These actions may cause operational delays or restrictions, increased operating and compliance costs, additional regulatory scrutiny and increased risk of litigation, as well as potentially reducing our ability to execute routine or strategic business partnerships. Moreover, governmental authorities exercise considerable discretion in the timing and scope of permit issuance and the public can engage in the permitting process, including through intervention in the courts. Changes in public perception could cause the permits we require to conduct our operations to be withheld, delayed or conditioned by requirements that restrict our ability to conduct our business, which could materially adversely affect our industry and our financial condition and results of operations.

Certain financial institutions, funds and other sources of capital have also elected to restrict or eliminate their investment in certain fossil fuel-related activities, which may restrict our access to capital. Even if capital providers have not generally restricted their investment in fossil fuel-related activities, they may still assess various sustainability considerations in making voting and capital allocation decisions. Responding to these and other stakeholder concerns on sustainability matters may require us to incur additional costs or otherwise impact our business. In addition, the enactment of climate change-related policies and initiatives across the market at the corporate level and/or investor community level may in the future result in reduced demand for our products or stimulate demand for alternative forms of energy that do not rely on combustion of fossil fuels. For more information, see our risk factor *"Increasing attention to sustainability matters and our ability to achieve and maintain sustainability certifications, goals and commitments may impact our business, financial results or stock price."*

***The gas and oil exploration and production industry is very competitive; some of our competitors have greater financial and other resources than we do, and there is competition to attract and retain talent and competition over access to certain industry equipment.***

We face competition in every aspect of our business, including, but not limited to, buying and selling reserves and leases, obtaining goods and services needed to operate our business and marketing natural gas, oil or NGL. Competitors include multinational oil companies, independent production companies and individual producers and operators. Some of our competitors have greater financial and other resources than we do. As a result, these competitors may be able to address industry challenges more effectively or weather industry downturns more easily than we can. We also face indirect competition from alternative energy sources, including wind, solar and electric power.

Our performance depends largely on the talents and efforts of highly skilled individuals and on our ability to attract new employees and to retain and motivate our existing employees. Competition in our industry for qualified employees is intense. If we are unsuccessful in attracting and retaining skilled employees and managerial talent, our ability to compete effectively may be diminished. In addition, the sudden loss of any of our key executives, their services or our failure to appropriately plan for any expected key executive succession could materially and

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adversely affect our business and prospects, as we may not be able to find suitable individuals to replace them on a timely basis, if at all. We also compete for the equipment required to explore, develop and operate properties. Typically, during times of rising commodity prices, drilling and operating costs will also increase. During these periods, there is often a shortage of drilling rigs and other oilfield equipment and services, which could adversely affect our ability to execute our development plans on a timely basis and within budget.

***Risks related to potential acquisitions or dispositions may adversely affect our business.***

From time to time, we evaluate acquisitions and dispositions of assets, businesses and other investments. These transactions may not result in the anticipated benefits or efficiencies. In addition, acquisitions may be financed by borrowings, requiring us to incur more debt, or by the issuance of our common stock. Any such acquisition or disposition involves risks and we cannot assure you that:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• any acquisition will be successfully integrated into our operations and internal controls;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the due diligence conducted prior to an acquisition will uncover situations that could result in financial or legal exposure, such as title defects and potential environmental and other liabilities;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• post-closing purchase price adjustments will be realized in our favor;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• our assumptions about, among other things, reserves, estimated production, revenues, capital expenditures, operating expenses and costs will be accurate;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• there will not be delays in closing, lower than expected sales proceeds for the disposed assets or business, residual liabilities or post-closing claims for indemnification;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• any investment, acquisition or disposition will not divert management resources from the operation of our business; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• any investment, acquisition or disposition will not have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows or reserves.

If any of these risks materialize, the benefits of such acquisition or disposition may not be fully realized, if at all, and our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and reserves could be negatively impacted.

***If commodity prices fall or drilling efforts are unsuccessful, we may be required to record write-downs of the carrying value of our natural gas and oil properties.***

We have been required to write down the carrying value of certain of our natural gas and oil properties in the past, and there is a risk that we will be required to take additional write-downs in the future. Write-downs may occur in the future when natural gas and oil prices are low for sustained periods, or if we have downward adjustments to our estimated proved reserves, increases in our estimates of operating or development costs or due to the anticipated sale of properties.

The successful efforts method of accounting requires that we periodically review the carrying value of our natural gas and oil properties for possible impairment. Impairment is recognized for the excess of book value over fair value when the book value of a proven property is greater than the expected undiscounted future net cash flows from that property and on acreage when conditions indicate the carrying value is not recoverable. We may be required to write-down the carrying value of a property based on natural gas and oil prices at the time of the impairment review, or as a result of continuing evaluation of drilling results, production data, economics, divestiture activity and other factors. A write-down constitutes a non-cash charge to earnings and does not impact cash or cash flows from operating activities; however, it reflects our long-term ability to recover an investment, reduces our reported earnings and increases certain leverage ratios. See *Impairments* within Critical Accounting Estimates included in Item 7 of this report for further information.

***Significant capital expenditures are required to replace our reserves and conduct our business.***

Our exploration, development and acquisition activities require substantial capital expenditures. We intend to fund our capital expenditures through cash flows from operations, and to the extent that is not sufficient, borrowings under our revolving credit facility. Our ability to generate operating cash flow is subject to a number of risks and variables, such as the level of production from existing wells, prices of natural gas, oil and NGLs, our success in developing and producing new reserves and the other risk factors discussed herein. Our forecasted 2026 capital expenditures, inclusive of capitalized interest, are $2.75 - $2.95 billion compared to our 2025 capital spending level

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of $2.85 billion. Management continues to review operational plans for 2026 and beyond, which could result in changes to projected capital expenditures and projected revenues from sales of natural gas, oil and NGLs. If we are unable to fund our capital expenditures as planned, we could experience a curtailment of our exploration and development activity, a loss of properties and a decline in our natural gas, oil and NGL reserves.

***If we are not able to replace reserves, we may not be able to sustain production.***

Our future success depends largely upon our ability to find, develop or acquire additional natural gas and oil reserves that are economically recoverable. Unless we replace the reserves we produce through successful development, exploration or acquisition activities, our proved reserves and production will decline over time. Thus, our future natural gas and oil reserves and production, and therefore our cash flows and income, are highly dependent on our success in efficiently developing our current reserves and economically finding or acquiring additional recoverable reserves.

***The actual quantities of and future net revenues from our proved reserves may be less than our estimates.***

The estimates of our proved reserves and the estimated future net revenues from our proved reserves included in this report are based upon various assumptions, including assumptions required by the SEC relating to natural gas, oil and NGL prices, drilling and operating expenses, capital expenditures, taxes and availability of funds. The process of estimating natural gas, oil and NGL reserves is complex and involves significant decisions and assumptions associated with geological, geophysical, engineering and economic data for each well. Therefore, these estimates are subject to future revisions.

Actual future production, natural gas, oil and NGL prices, revenues, taxes, development expenditures, operating expenses and quantities of recoverable natural gas, oil and NGL reserves most likely will vary from these estimates. Such variations may be significant and could materially affect the estimated quantities and present value of our proved reserves. In addition, we may adjust estimates of proved reserves to reflect production history, results of exploration and development drilling, prevailing natural gas and oil prices and other factors, many of which are beyond our control.

As of December 31, 2025, approximately 28% of our estimated proved reserves (by volume) were undeveloped. These reserve estimates reflect our plans for capital expenditures to convert PUDs into proved developed reserves, including approximately $4.2 billion during the next five years. You should be aware that the estimated development costs may not equal our actual costs, development may not occur as scheduled and results may not be as estimated. If we choose not to develop our PUDs, or if we are not otherwise able to successfully develop them, we will be required to remove them from our reported proved reserves. In addition, under the SEC's reserve reporting rules, because PUDs generally may be booked only if they relate to wells scheduled to be drilled within five years of the date of booking, we may be required to remove any PUDs that are not developed within this five-year time frame.

You should not assume that the present values included in this report represent the current market value of our estimated reserves. In accordance with SEC requirements, the estimates of our present values are based on prices and costs as of the date of the estimates. The price on the date of estimate is calculated as the average natural gas and oil price during the 12 months ending in the current reporting period, determined as the unweighted arithmetic average of prices on the first day of each month within the 12-month period. The December 31, 2025 present value is based on the price of $3.39 per Mcf of natural gas, $65.34 per bbl of oil and $65.34 per bbl of NGL, before basis differential adjustments. Actual future prices and costs may be materially higher or lower than the prices and costs as of the date of an estimate.

The timing of both the production and the expenses from the development and production of natural gas and oil properties will affect both the timing of future net cash flows from our proved reserves and their present value. Any changes in demand for natural gas and oil, governmental regulations or taxation will also affect the future net cash flows from our production. In addition, the 10% discount factor that is required by the SEC to be used in calculating discounted future net cash flows for reporting purposes is not necessarily the most appropriate discount factor. Interest rates in effect from time to time and the risks associated with our business or the gas and oil industry in general will affect the appropriateness of the 10% discount factor.

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***Our development and exploratory drilling efforts and our well operations may not be profitable or achieve our targeted returns.***

We have a substantial inventory of undeveloped properties. Development and exploratory drilling and production activities are subject to many risks, including the risk that commercially productive reservoirs will not be discovered. We have acquired undeveloped properties that we believe will enhance our growth potential and increase our earnings over time. However, we cannot assure you that all prospects will be economically viable or that we will not abandon our initial investments. Additionally, there can be no assurance that undeveloped properties acquired by us will be profitably developed, that new wells drilled by us in prospects that we pursue will be productive, or that we will recover all or any portion of our investment in such undeveloped properties or wells.

Drilling for natural gas and oil may involve unprofitable efforts, not only from dry wells but also from wells that are productive but do not produce sufficient commercial quantities to cover the drilling, operating and other costs. The cost of drilling, completing and operating a well is often uncertain, and many factors can adversely affect the economics of a well or property. Drilling and completion operations may be curtailed, delayed or canceled as a result of unexpected drilling conditions, title problems, equipment failures or accidents, shortages of midstream transportation, equipment or personnel, environmental issues, state or local bans or moratoriums on hydraulic fracturing and produced water disposal, federal restrictions on gas and oil leasing and permitting and a decline in commodity prices, among others. The profitability of wells, particularly in certain of the areas in which we operate, will be reduced or eliminated if commodity prices decline. In addition, wells that are profitable may not meet our internal return targets, which are dependent upon the current and future market prices for natural gas, oil and NGLs, costs associated with producing natural gas, oil and NGLs and our ability to add reserves at an acceptable cost.

We rely to a significant extent on seismic data and other technologies in evaluating undeveloped properties and in conducting our exploration activities. The seismic data and other technologies we use do not allow us to know conclusively, prior to acquisition of undeveloped properties or drilling a well, whether natural gas or oil is present or may be produced economically. If we incur significant expense in acquiring or developing properties that do not produce as expected or at profitable levels, it could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.

***Certain of our undeveloped properties are subject to leases that will expire over the next several years unless production is established on units containing the acreage or the leases are renewed.***

Leases on natural gas and oil properties typically have a term of three to five years, after which they expire unless, prior to expiration, a well is drilled and production of hydrocarbons in paying quantities is established. If our leases on our undeveloped properties expire and we are unable to renew the leases, we will lose our right to develop the related properties. Although we seek to actively manage our undeveloped properties, our drilling plans for these areas are subject to change based upon various factors, including drilling results, natural gas and oil 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. Low commodity prices may cause us to delay our drilling plans and, as a result, lose our right to develop the related properties.

***Our commodity price risk management activities may limit the benefit we would receive from increases in commodity prices, may require us to provide collateral for derivative liabilities and involve risk that our counterparties may be unable to satisfy their obligations to us.***

To manage our exposure to price volatility, we enter into natural gas, oil and NGL price derivative contracts. Our natural gas, oil and NGL derivative arrangements may limit the benefit we would receive from increases in commodity prices. The fair value of our natural gas, oil and NGL derivative instruments can fluctuate significantly between periods. Our decision to mitigate cash flow volatility through derivative arrangements, if any, is based in part on our view of current and future market conditions and our desire to stabilize cash flows necessary for the development of our proved reserves. We may choose not to enter into derivatives if we believe the pricing environment for certain time periods is unfavorable. Additionally, we may choose to liquidate existing derivative positions prior to the expiration of their contractual maturities to monetize gain positions for the purpose of funding our capital program.

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Most of our natural gas, oil and NGL derivative contracts are with counterparties under bilateral hedging arrangements. Our counterparties' obligations under the arrangements must be secured by cash or letters of credit to the extent that any mark-to-market amounts owed to us exceed defined thresholds. Collateral requirements are dependent to a large extent on natural gas and oil prices.

Natural gas, oil and NGL derivative transactions expose us to the risk that our counterparties, which are generally financial institutions, may be unable to satisfy their obligations to us. During periods of declining commodity prices, the value of our commodity derivative asset positions increase, which increases our counterparty exposure. Although the counterparties to our hedging arrangements are required to secure their obligations to us under certain scenarios, if any of our counterparties were to default on their obligations to us under the derivative contracts or seek bankruptcy protection, it could have an adverse effect on our ability to fund our planned activities and could result in a larger percentage of our future cash flows being exposed to commodity price changes.

***Natural gas and oil operations are uncertain and involve substantial costs and risks.***

Our operating activities are subject to numerous costs and risks, including the risk that we will not encounter commercially productive gas or oil reservoirs. Drilling for natural gas, oil and NGL can be unprofitable, not only from dry holes, but from productive wells that do not return a profit because of insufficient revenue from production or high costs. Substantial costs are required to locate, acquire and develop gas and oil properties, and we are often uncertain as to the amount and timing of those costs. Our cost of drilling, completing, equipping and operating wells is often uncertain before drilling commences. Declines in commodity prices and overruns in budgeted expenditures are common risks that can make a particular project uneconomic or less economic than forecasted. Although both exploratory and developmental drilling activities involve these risks, exploratory drilling involves greater risks of dry holes or failure to find commercial quantities of hydrocarbons. In addition, our gas and oil properties can become damaged, our operations may be curtailed, delayed or canceled and the costs of such operations may increase as a result of a variety of factors, including, but not limited to:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• unexpected drilling conditions, pressure conditions or irregularities in reservoir formations;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• equipment failures or accidents;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• repairs or maintenance of older assets;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• fires, explosions, blowouts, cratering or loss of well control;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the mishandling or underground migration of fluids and chemicals;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• adverse weather conditions and natural disasters, such as tornadoes, earthquakes, hurricanes and extreme temperatures;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• issues with title or in receiving governmental permits or approvals;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• restricted takeaway capacity for our production, including due to inadequate midstream infrastructure or constrained downstream markets;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• environmental hazards or liabilities;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• restrictions in access to, or disposal of, water used or produced in drilling and completion operations;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• shortages or delays in the availability of services or delivery of equipment; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• unexpected or unforeseen changes in regulatory policy, and political or public opinion.

The occurrence of one or more of these factors could result in a partial or total loss of our investment in a particular property, as well as significant liabilities. Although we may maintain insurance against some, but not all, of the risks described above, our insurance may not be adequate to cover casualty losses or liabilities, and our insurance does not cover penalties or fines that may be assessed by a governmental authority. For certain risks, such as political risk, business interruption, war, terrorism and piracy, we have limited or no insurance coverage. Also, in the future we may not be able to obtain insurance at premium levels that justify its purchase. The occurrence of a significant event against which we are not fully insured may expose us to liabilities.

Moreover, certain of these events could result in environmental contamination and impact to third parties, including persons living in proximity to our operations, our employees and employees of our contractors, leading to possible injuries, death, significant damage to property and natural resources or significant financial liabilities or penalties.

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***Our ability to produce natural gas, oil and NGL economically and in commercial quantities could be impaired if we are unable to acquire adequate supplies of water for our operations or are unable to dispose of or recycle the water we use economically and in compliance with environmental laws.***

Water is an essential component of natural gas, oil and NGL production during both the drilling and hydraulic fracturing processes. Development activities, particularly hydraulic fracturing, require the use and disposal of significant quantities of water. Over the past several years, portions of the country have experienced extreme drought conditions. As a result of this severe drought, some local water districts have begun restricting the use of water subject to their jurisdiction for hydraulic fracturing to protect local water supply. In certain areas, there may be insufficient local aquifer capacity to provide a source of water for drilling activities. In these areas, water must be obtained from other sources and transported to the drilling site. Our inability to secure sufficient amounts of water, or to dispose of or recycle the water used in our operations, could adversely impact our operations in certain areas. The imposition of new or revised environmental regulations could further restrict our ability to conduct certain operations such as hydraulic fracturing or disposal of waste, including, but not limited to, produced water, drilling fluids and other materials associated with the exploration, development or production of natural gas and oil.

***We have made significant investments in gathering and transportation assets and oilfield service businesses, including joint ventures in gas gathering pipelines, our drilling rigs, water infrastructure and pressure pumping equipment, and may rely on such investments in third parties to lower costs and secure inputs for our operations and transportation for our production. If our development and production activities are curtailed or disrupted, we may not recover our investment in these activities, which could adversely impact our results of operations. In addition, our continued expansion of these operations may adversely impact our relationships with third-party providers.***

We depend on third-party pipelines and other investments to provide us certain gathering and transportation assets. During the fourth quarter of 2022, we entered into an agreement with Momentum Sustainable Ventures LLC to build a new natural gas gathering pipeline and carbon capture project, the New Generation Gas Gathering pipeline (the "NG3 pipeline"), to gather and treat natural gas produced in the Haynesville Shale for delivery to Gulf Coast markets, including LNG export. We have a 35% interest in the joint venture entity. On October 1, 2025, the NG3 pipeline was placed in service and began gathering operations. We rely on the NG3 pipeline to provide to us certain gathering, processing and transportation services. We have a gathering agreement in which approximately 900 MMcf per day, on average, of natural gas are to be gathered and processed by the NG3 pipeline over the course of the next 12 years. In the event that the services of the NG3 pipeline are impacted due to repairs, damage to the facility, lack of capacity or any other reason, our ability to lower costs and secure inputs for our operations and transportation for our production may be impacted.

We also have made investments to meet certain of our field services' needs. If our level of operations is reduced for a long period, we may not be able to recover these investments. Further, our presence in these service and supply sectors, including competing with them for qualified personnel and supplies, may have an adverse effect on our relationships with our existing third-party service and resource providers or our ability to secure these services and resources from other providers.

***Our operations may be adversely affected by pipeline, trucking and gathering system capacity constraints and may be subject to interruptions that could adversely affect our cash flow.***

In certain resource plays, the capacity of gathering and transportation systems is insufficient to accommodate potential production from existing and new wells. We rely heavily on third parties to meet our natural gas, oil and NGL gathering needs. Because we do not own and/or control these third-party pipelines or facilities, such as the NG3 pipeline, their continuing operation and access requirements are not within our control. If these or any other pipeline connections or facilities were to become unavailable for current or future volumes of natural gas, oil and NGL due to repairs, damage to the facility, lack of capacity or any other reason, our ability to operate efficiently and ship natural gas, oil and NGL to end markets could be restricted. Any temporary or permanent interruption at any key pipeline interconnect or facility could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, cash flows, and results of operations. Capital constraints or changes in laws or regulations could limit the construction of new pipelines and gathering systems and the provision or expansion of trucking services by third parties. The approval process for certain projects has become increasingly slower and more difficult, due in part to federal, state and local concerns related to exploration and production, transmission and gathering activities and associated

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environmental impacts, and the increasingly negative public perception regarding, and opposition to, the oil and gas industry, including major pipeline projects. Until this new capacity is available, we may experience delays in producing and selling our natural gas, oil and NGL. In such event, we might have to shut in our wells while awaiting a pipeline connection or additional capacity, which would adversely affect our results of operations. Capital constraints or changes in laws or regulations also could increase the cost to access to such capacity, which would increase the cost of our operations.

A portion of our natural gas, oil and NGL production in any region may be interrupted, or shut in, from time to time for numerous reasons, including weather conditions, accidents, loss of pipeline or gathering system access, field labor issues or strikes, or we might voluntarily curtail production in response to market conditions. If a substantial amount of our production is interrupted at the same time, it could materially adversely affect our cash flow.

***We entered into a joint venture, and may in the future enter into additional or modify existing joint ventures, that might restrict our operational and corporate flexibility. In addition, we exercise no control over joint venture partners and it may be difficult or impossible for us to cause these joint ventures or partners to take actions that we believe would be in our or the joint venture's best interests and these joint ventures are subject to many of the same risks to which we are subject.***

We entered into a joint venture primarily pertaining to the building of a new natural gas gathering pipeline and carbon capture project, the NG3 pipeline, and may in the future enter into additional joint venture arrangements with third parties. Joint venture arrangements may restrict our operational and corporate flexibility. Because we do not control all of the decisions of our joint ventures or joint venture partners, either because we do not have a controlling interest in the venture or are not an operator under the agreement, it may be difficult or impossible for us to cause these joint ventures or partners to take actions that we believe would be in our or the joint venture's best interests. Moreover, joint venture arrangements involve various risks and uncertainties, such as committing that we fund operating and/or capital expenditures, the timing and amount of which we may not control, and our joint venture partners may not act in a manner that we believe would be in our or the joint venture's best interests, may elect not to support further pursuit of projects, and/or may not satisfy their financial obligations to the joint venture. The loss of joint venture partner support in further pursuing or funding a project may significantly adversely affect the ability to complete the project. In addition, such joint ventures may be subject to many of the same risks to which we are subject.

***Our business strategy includes participating in the global LNG value chain, which is dependent, in part, on the growing U.S. LNG export market, a highly regulated and capital intensive industry with a number of inherent commercial risks. U.S. LNG exports have helped drive domestic demand for natural gas, and, as a natural gas producer, we could be materially and adversely impacted by a deterioration in the U.S. LNG export industry, which could in turn reduce demand for natural gas. In addition, we may seek to more directly participate in the LNG value chain through direct marketing arrangements with LNG export facilities and/or end users, which could expose us to additional commercial risks associated with the global LNG markets.***

As a domestic natural gas exploration and production company, we may be indirectly exposed to certain risks in the U.S. LNG export markets, including to the extent that we have entered into, or may in the future enter into, long-term natural gas supply agreements with LNG export facilities. The LNG export industry is a highly regulated and capital-intensive industry that is subject to a number of risks. Many facilities remain under construction or are expanding, and if these facilities are unable to obtain and maintain approvals and permits from governmental and regulatory agencies with respect to the design, construction and operation of their facilities, or if they are unable to secure financing in connection with their operations or the completion of their planned projects, the U.S. LNG market may be materially and adversely impacted, which could reduce demand for U.S. natural gas and have a material adverse effect on our business, contracts, financial condition, operating results, cash flow, liquidity and prospects.

We may also in the future enter into other commercial arrangements directly with foreign LNG customers. LNG sale and purchase agreements commonly have terms exceeding 10 years, which could expose us to credit risk should a customer default and we are required to seek recourse. Additionally, long-term LNG sales and purchase agreements generally permit a customer to terminate their contractual obligations upon the occurrence of certain events, including: (i) a failure to make available specified scheduled cargo quantities, (ii) delays in the

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commencement of commercial operations and (iii) the occurrence of certain events of force majeure. The occurrence of these and other events permitting termination may be outside of our control and may expose us to unrecoverable losses.

Further, any future commercial agreement may expose us to commodity risks associated with differential pricing of natural gas in different markets. LNG and natural gas are traded according to prices determined with reference to a variety of international indices, including the Japan Korea Marker (JKM) and the Dutch TTF market, each of which may materially differ from prices that use the U.S. Henry Hub index as a reference price. If we are unable to manage the impacts of unfavorable price differentials between domestic and international indices for LNG or natural gas in the context of future agreements, this could have a material adverse effect on our business, contracts, financial condition, operating results, cash flow, liquidity and prospects.

***The departure of key management personnel and the failure to attract and retain talent could adversely affect our operations.***

Our success depends upon the continued contributions of our senior executives. If one or more of our executive officers are unable or unwilling to continue in their current positions, we may not be able to replace them readily, if at all. Additionally, we may incur additional expenses to recruit and retain new executive officers. Because of these factors, the loss of any one or more members of our executive management team, for any reason, including resignation or retirement, could impair our ability to execute our business strategy and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Although we have endeavored to implement these management transitions in a non-disruptive manner, such transitions can be inherently difficult to manage and may hamper our ability to meet our financial and operational goals. Such changes may also give rise to uncertainty among our customers, investors, vendors, employees and others concerning our future direction and performance. Any of the foregoing could result in significant disruptions to our operations and may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and ability to execute on our business plans.

***Cyber-attacks targeting systems and infrastructure used by the gas and oil industry and related regulations may adversely impact our operations and, if we or our third-party providers are unable to obtain and maintain adequate protection for our key systems and data, our business may be harmed.***

Cybersecurity threats present a large and growing risk to our business, as the energy industry has become increasingly dependent on digital technologies to conduct day-to-day operations, including certain exploration, development and production activities. For example, we depend on sophisticated information technology ("IT") and operational technology ("OT") to estimate quantities of natural gas, oil and NGL reserves, process and record financial and operating data, analyze seismic and drilling information, and communicate with our customers, employees and third-party partners. In addition, many third-party providers directly or indirectly provide us products and services across an array of internal and external functions that are designed to enable us to conduct, monitor and/or protect our business, systems and data assets. In addition, in the ordinary course of business, we and our service providers collect, process, transmit, and store proprietary and confidential data, including personal information.

We have been, and we and our customers, business partners, and counterparties may become, the subject of cyber-attacks on our and their internal IT and OT systems and through those of third parties. Any such cyber-attacks or information security breaches could have a material adverse effect on our business and financial results and increase our operating and capital costs, as well as disrupt our business plans and negatively impact our reputation and operations. As an energy company, we expect to continue to be a target for such attacks in the future from nation-state sponsored foreign actors and other attackers. We face evolving cybersecurity risks that threaten the confidentiality, integrity and availability of our digital technologies and business data, including malicious attacks by third parties or insiders, social engineering/phishing and human error, as well as bugs, misconfigurations of hardware or software and other vulnerabilities that may exist in our or our third-party providers' systems or technologies. Unauthorized access to our seismic data, reserves information, customer or employee data or other proprietary or commercially sensitive information could lead to data corruption, communication interruption, or other disruptions in our exploration or production operations or planned business transactions, any of which could have a material adverse impact on our results of operations. If our information technology systems do not function properly or our cybersecurity is breached or otherwise insufficient, we could suffer disruptions to our normal operations,

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which may include disruptions to our drilling, completion, production and corporate functions. There can also be no assurance that our cybersecurity risk management program and processes, including our policies, controls or procedures, will be fully implemented, complied with or effective in protecting our systems and data. A cyber-attack, or the perception thereof, involving our information systems and related infrastructure, or that of our business associates or third-party providers, could result in supply chain disruptions that delay or prevent the transportation and marketing of our production, non-compliance leading to regulatory fines or penalties, loss or disclosure of, damage to, our or any of our customer's or supplier's data or confidential information that could harm our business by damaging our reputation, subjecting us to potential financial or legal liability and requiring us to incur significant costs, including expensive and time-consuming costs to repair or restore our systems and data or to take other remedial steps, disproportionate attention of management, or damage to our reputation. Additionally, rapidly evolving laws and regulations governing cybersecurity pose increasingly complex compliance obligations and technical challenges, and failure to comply with these obligations, including incident notification requirements, could result in legal claims or proceedings (such as class actions), regulatory investigations and enforcement actions, fines and penalties and negative reputational impacts that could cause us to lose existing or future customers.

In the event of a cyber-attack, we may be required by federal and state laws or regulations to provide notification to regulators or individuals. For example, the Cyber Incident Reporting for Critical Infrastructure Act (CIRCIA) was signed into law on March 15, 2022. CIRCIA mandates that all owners and operators of critical infrastructure report cyber incidents to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) within 72 hours and ransomware payments within 24 hours. These new requirements will become effective once CISA promulgates rules pursuant to the CIRCIA. CISA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking on April 4, 2024 and is expected to publish the final rule in May 2026.

Both the frequency and magnitude of cyberattacks is expected to increase as attackers are becoming more sophisticated and artificial intelligence proliferates. As a result, we may be unable to anticipate, detect, prevent, investigate or contain future attacks, particularly as the methodologies utilized by attackers change frequently or are not recognized until launched, and we may be unable to investigate or remediate incidents because attackers are increasingly using techniques and tools designed to circumvent controls, to avoid detection and to remove or obfuscate forensic evidence. Further, global remote working dynamics for our customers, employees and third-party providers present additional risk that threat actors may seek to engage in social engineering (for example, phishing) and to exploit vulnerabilities in corporate and non-corporate networks. As cyber-attacks continue to evolve, including the prevalence of reconnaissance or surveillance by threat actors, which may remain undetected for an extended period notwithstanding our monitoring and detection efforts, we may be required to spend significant additional resources to modify or enhance our protective measures or to investigate and remediate any vulnerabilities to cyber-attacks of our IT and OT systems.

Any losses, costs or liabilities directly or indirectly related to cyberattacks or similar incidents may not be covered by, or may exceed the coverage limits of, any or all of our insurance policies.

***We collect, process, store and use personal information and other data, and our actual or perceived failure to protect such information and data or comply with data privacy and security laws and regulations could damage our reputation and brand and harm our business and operating results.***

Along with our own data and information that we collect and retain in the normal course of our business, we and our business partners collect and retain significant volumes of certain other types of data, some of which are subject to data protection laws, including information related to our past, current and prospective employees, royalty owners, and other parties. The regulatory environment surrounding the collection, use, transfer and protection of such data, both domestically and internationally, is becoming increasingly complex, constantly evolving, and is subject to frequent significant change. We and our vendors are subject to a variety of federal and state data privacy laws, rules, regulations, industry standards and other requirements governing data privacy and the unauthorized disclosure of confidential information. Complying with these jurisdictional requirements could increase the costs and complexity of compliance procedures, and any failure to comply with these laws and regulations could result in significant penalties and legal liability. For example, we are subject to various state privacy laws, such as the California Consumer Privacy Act ("CCPA"), which came into effect in January 2020, and the California Privacy Rights Act ("CPRA"), which expands upon the CCPA and came into effect in January 2023 (with a lookback period beginning January 2022). The CCPA and the CPRA, among other things, contain new disclosure obligations for businesses that collect personal information about California residents, provide such individuals expanded rights to

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access, delete and correct their personal information and opt-out of certain sales or transfers of personal information and provide for statutory fines and penalties for certain data security breaches or other CCPA and CPRA violations. The enactment of the CCPA has prompted a wave of similar legislative developments in other states in the United States, which creates the potential for a patchwork of overlapping but different state laws. Any failure or perceived failure by us to comply with data privacy laws, rules, regulations, industry standards and other requirements could result in proceedings or actions against us by individuals, consumer rights groups, government agencies or others. We could incur significant costs in investigating and defending such claims and, if found liable, pay significant damages or fines or be required to make changes to our business. Further, any such proceedings and any subsequent adverse outcomes may subject us to significant negative publicity and an erosion of trust. If any of these events were to occur, our business, reputation, financial condition or results of operations could be materially adversely affected.

***Our business is subject to risks related to catastrophes, natural disasters, severe weather and human causes beyond our control, which may have a negative impact on our results of operations and financial condition.***

Our operations are subject to disruption from human causes beyond our control and natural disasters, including extreme weather events the scientific community has concluded are associated with climate change, such as hurricanes, severe storms, floods, droughts, heat waves, winter storms, wildfires and ambient temperature, water level or precipitation changes as well as war, accidents, civil unrest, political events, earthquakes, system failures, cyber threats, terrorist acts and epidemic or pandemic diseases, any of which could result in suspension of operations (including those of our customers or suppliers) or harm to people, our assets or the environment.

It is difficult to predict with certainty the timing, frequency or severity of such events or how such frequency or severity may change. However, if any such events were to occur, potential adverse effects could include disruption of our production activities, delays in production or possibly shut-ins as a result of physical damage to wells, pumps, storage tanks and other infrastructure facilities, increases in our costs of operation or reductions in the efficiency of our operations, reduced availability of electrical power, road accessibility, and transportation facilities, impacts on our personnel, supply chain, distribution chain or customers, and potentially increased costs or limited availability for insurance coverages in the aftermath of such effects. Such events could also adversely affect or delay demand for our products or cause us to incur significant costs in preparing for, or responding to, the effects of climatic or weather events themselves. Any such events could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations or financial condition. Moreover, any changes in ambient temperatures or severe weather events may impact demand for natural gas if it results in lower energy needs for, among other things, temperature control.

In addition, our headquarters is currently located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, an area that experiences earthquakes and severe weather events, including tornadoes. Our information systems and administrative and management processes are primarily provided to our various drilling projects and producing wells throughout the United States from this location, which could be disrupted if a catastrophic event destroyed or severely damaged our headquarters. Any such catastrophic event could harm our ability to conduct normal operations and could adversely affect our business.

***A deterioration in general economic, political, business or industry conditions would have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, liquidity and financial condition.***

Historically, concerns about global economic growth and international political stability have had a significant impact on global financial markets and commodity prices, including petroleum products. If the economic or political climate in the United States or abroad deteriorates, worldwide demand for petroleum products could diminish, which could impact the price at which we can sell our production, affect the ability of our vendors, suppliers and customers to continue operations and materially adversely impact our results of operations, liquidity and financial condition. The global market is also continuing to experience inflationary pressure, including rising fuel costs, a tightening steel market and labor and supply chain shortages, which could result in increases to our operating and capital costs that are not fixed. Additionally, while concerns over energy security have, in some situations, seen increased demand for natural gas, sustained concerns over energy security may result in an accelerated adoption of renewable energy and other alternative energy generation or storage, or energy efficiency, technologies. Any such accelerated adoption of alternative energy sources or energy efficiency improvements may decrease demand for our products or otherwise adversely impact our financial condition or results of operations.

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***We may be unable to dispose of assets on attractive terms, and may be required to retain liabilities for certain matters.***

Various factors could materially affect our ability to dispose of assets if and when we decide to do so, including the availability of purchasers willing to purchase the assets at prices acceptable to us, particularly in times of reduced and volatile commodity prices. Sellers typically retain liabilities for certain matters. The magnitude of any such retained liability or indemnification obligation may be difficult to quantify at the time of the transaction and ultimately may be material. Also, as is typical in divestiture transactions, third parties may be unwilling to release us from guarantees or other credit support provided prior to the sale of the divested assets. As a result, after a sale, we may remain secondarily liable for the obligations guaranteed or supported to the extent that the buyer of the assets fails to perform these obligations.

***Military and other armed conflicts, including terrorist activities, and related price volatility and geopolitical instability could materially and adversely affect our business and results of operations.***

Military and other armed conflicts, terrorist attacks and the threat of both, whether domestic or foreign, could cause further instability in the global financial and energy markets. The armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine, continued instability in the Middle East and Venezuela, and changes in China-Taiwan relations and the occurrence or threat of terrorist attacks in the United States or other countries could adversely affect the global economy in unpredictable ways, including the disruption of energy supplies and markets, increased volatility in commodity prices, including petroleum products, or the possibility that the infrastructure on which we rely could be a direct target or an indirect casualty of an act of terrorism, and, in turn, could materially and adversely affect our business and results of operations.

For example, in late February 2022, Russia launched a military invasion against Ukraine. Sustained conflict and disruption in the region are likely in the near term, and the longer-term duration of the war is uncertain. The Russian invasion has caused, and could intensify, volatility in natural gas, oil and NGL prices, driving a sharp upward spike in the short term, and may have an impact on global growth prospects, which could in turn affect demand for natural gas and oil. In addition, any exacerbation or spillover of the current armed conflict between Israel and Hamas into the broader region could produce similar impacts. Any such volatility, impacts on demand and disruptions may also magnify the impact of other risk factors described in this report.

***Regional epidemics or pandemics and related economic turmoil, including supply chain constraints, have affected, and could in the future adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.***

The COVID-19 pandemic adversely impacted the entire global economy, including creating supply chain constraints, and any future regional epidemics or global pandemics and governmental and other measures implemented to try to address them, such as quarantines, shelter-in-place orders, business and government shutdowns and restrictions on operations, could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Actions by our customers and derivative contract counterparties in response to such events and their economic impacts, including potential non-performance or delays, could also have an adverse impact on our business.

**Financial Risks Related to our Business**

***We have significant capital needs, and our ability to access the capital and credit markets to raise capital on favorable terms is limited by industry conditions.***

Disruptions in the capital and credit markets, in particular with respect to the energy sector, could limit our ability to access these markets or may significantly increase our cost to borrow. In the past, low commodity prices have caused and may continue to cause lenders to increase the interest rates under upstream operators' credit facilities, enact tighter lending standards, refuse to refinance existing debt around maturity on favorable terms or at all and may reduce or cease to provide funding to borrowers. Additionally, certain financial institutions have announced their intention to cease investment banking and corporate lending activities in the North American gas and oil sector or have established climate-related funding commitments that could have the effect of limiting their investment in us or our industry. If we are unable to access the capital and credit markets on favorable terms, it

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could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and liquidity and our ability to repay or refinance our debt. Additionally, challenges in the economy have led and could further lead to reductions in the demand for gas and oil, or further reductions in the prices of gas and oil, or both, which could have a negative impact on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

***Restrictive covenants in certain of our existing and future debt instruments may limit our ability to finance our operations, fund our capital needs, respond to changing conditions and engage in other business activities that may be in our best interests.***

Restrictive covenants in certain of our existing and future debt instruments may limit our ability to finance our operations, fund our capital needs, respond to changing conditions and engage in other business activities that may be in our best interests. Certain of our debt instruments contain, and the terms of any future indebtedness may contain, restrictive covenants that limit our ability to, among other things: incur or guarantee additional indebtedness; create liens; merge or consolidate with another entity; make restricted payments; and engage in transactions with affiliates. A breach of any of these restrictive covenants could result in default under the applicable debt instrument.

We may be prevented from taking advantage of business opportunities that arise because of the limitations imposed on us by the restrictive covenants and financial covenants contained in our debt instruments. As an example, our Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated September 30, 2025 (the "Credit Agreement") requires us to comply with a total indebtedness to capitalization ratio not to exceed 65%. The requirement that we comply with these provisions may adversely affect our ability to react to changes in market conditions, take advantage of business opportunities we believe to be desirable, obtain future financing, fund needed capital expenditures or withstand a continuing or future downturn in our business.

***Changes to the ability of our customers to receive our products or meet their financial, performance and other obligations to us could adversely impact our business and financial condition.***

In addition to credit risk related to receivables from commodity derivative contracts, our principal exposures to credit risk are through receivables resulting from the sale of our natural gas, oil and NGL production that we market to energy companies, end users and refineries ($1,363 million as of December 31, 2025). We do not require all of our customers to post collateral. The inability or failure of our customers to meet their obligations to us or their insolvency or liquidation may adversely affect our financial condition.

***We have a significant amount of indebtedness, which will limit our liquidity and financial flexibility. We may also incur additional indebtedness in the future.***

As of December 31, 2025, we had indebtedness of approximately $5.0 billion, which included approximately $3.7 billion of Southwestern's senior notes we assumed as a result of the Southwestern Merger during the year ended December 31, 2024. In addition, subject to the limits contained in the documents governing such indebtedness, we may be able to incur substantial additional debt from time to time to finance working capital, capital expenditures, investments or acquisitions or for other purposes. Our indebtedness and other financial commitments have important consequences to our business, including, but not limited to:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• making it more difficult for us to satisfy our obligations with respect to senior notes and other indebtedness due to the increased debt-service obligations, which could, in turn, result in an event of default on such other indebtedness or the senior notes;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• requiring us to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flows from operations to debt service payments, thereby limiting our ability to fund working capital, capital expenditures, investments or acquisitions and other general corporate purposes;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• increasing our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions, including low commodity price environments;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• limiting our ability to obtain additional financing due to higher costs and more restrictive covenants;

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• limiting our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the industry in which we operate; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• placing us at a competitive disadvantage compared with our competitors that have proportionately less debt and fewer guarantee obligations.

***Any failure to meet our debt obligations could harm our business, financial condition and results of operations.***

Our earnings and cash flow fluctuate from year to year due to the variable nature of commodity prices. If our cash flow and capital resources are insufficient to fund our debt obligations, we may be forced to sell assets, seek equity sales or restructure our debt. Our ability to restructure our debt will depend on the condition of the capital markets and our financial condition at such time. Any restructuring of debt could be at higher interest rates and may require us to comply with more onerous covenants, which could further restrict our operations and our financial flexibility. The terms of existing or future debt instruments may restrict us from adopting some of these alternatives.

We receive debt ratings from the major credit rating agencies in the United States. Factors that may impact our credit ratings include debt levels, planned asset purchases or sales and near-term and long-term cash flow relative to debt balances. Liquidity, asset quality, cost structure, product mix (natural gas, oil and NGLs) and projected commodity pricing levels are also considered by the rating agencies. A ratings downgrade could adversely impact our ability to access debt markets in the future, increase the cost of future debt and could require us to post letters of credit or other forms of collateral for certain obligations. Many of our existing commercial contracts contain, and future commercial contracts may contain, provisions permitting the counterparty to require increased security upon the occurrence of a downgrade in our credit rating. We cannot provide assurance that our current ratings will remain in effect for any given period of time or that a rating will not be downgraded in the future.

***Our ability to comply with the covenants and other restrictions in our financing agreements may be affected by events beyond our control, including prevailing economic and financial conditions.***

Failure to comply with the covenants and other restrictions could lead to an event of default and the acceleration of our obligations under our senior notes, credit facility or other financing agreements, and in the case of the lease agreements for drilling rigs, compressors and pressure pumping equipment, loss of use of the equipment. In particular, the occurrence of risks identified elsewhere in this section, such as declines in commodity prices, increases in basis differentials and inability to access markets, could reduce our profits and thus the cash we have to fulfill our financial obligations. If we are unable to satisfy our obligations with cash on hand, we could attempt to refinance such debt, sell assets or repay such debt with the proceeds from an equity offering. We cannot assure that we will be able to generate sufficient cash flow to pay the interest on our debt, to meet our lease obligations, or that future borrowings, equity financings or proceeds from the sale of assets will be available to pay or refinance such debt or obligations. The terms of our financing agreements may also prohibit us from taking such actions. Factors that will affect our ability to raise cash through an offering of our capital stock, a refinancing of our debt or a sale of assets include financial market conditions and our market value and operating performance at the time of such offering or other financing. We cannot assure that any such proposed offering, refinancing or sale of assets can be successfully completed or, if completed, that the terms will be favorable to us.

***Our common stockholders will be diluted if additional shares are issued.***

We endeavor to create value for our stockholders on a per share basis. From time to time, we have issued stock to raise capital for our business or as consideration for acquisitions. We also issue common stock from time to time as a result of Warrant exercise and we issue restricted stock and performance share units to our employees and directors as part of their compensation. In addition, we may issue additional shares of common stock, additional notes or other securities or debt convertible into common stock, to extend maturities or fund capital expenditures. If we issue additional shares of our common stock in the future, it may have a dilutive effect on our current outstanding stockholders.

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***Our ability to declare and pay dividends, and to repurchase common stock, is subject to limitations.***

The payment of future dividends on, and any repurchases of, our common stock are each subject to the discretion of the Board of Directors, taking into consideration, among other factors, financial results, cash requirements, future prospects, restrictions under our indentures and other financing agreements, restrictions under Oklahoma law, general business and market conditions, and other factors the Board of Directors deems relevant. The Board of Directors is not required to declare dividends on or repurchase our common stock and may decide not to declare dividends or repurchase common stock at the current rate or at all. Any downward revision in the amount of dividends we pay to stockholders, or reduction in the pace or amount of share repurchases, could have an adverse effect on the market price of our common stock.

***The trading price and volume of our common stock may be volatile, and you could lose a significant portion of your investment.***

The market price of our common stock could be volatile, and holders of our common stock may not be able to resell their shares of common stock at or above the price at which they acquired such securities due to fluctuations in the market price of our common stock. The stock markets in general have experienced extreme volatility that has often been unrelated to the operating performance of particular companies. These broad market fluctuations may adversely affect the trading price of the common stock. Specific factors that may have a significant effect on the market price for our common stock include:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• general economic conditions within the U.S. and internationally, including inflationary pressures and changes in interest rates;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• general market conditions, including fluctuations in commodity prices;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• domestic and international economic, legal and regulatory factors unrelated to our performance;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• changes in natural gas, oil and NGL prices;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• volatility in the financial markets or other global economic factors;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• actual or anticipated fluctuations in our and our competitors' quarterly and annual results;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• quarterly variations in the rate of growth of our financial indicators;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• our business, operations, results and prospects;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• our operating and financial performance;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• future mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, joint ventures or similar strategic alliances;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• market conditions in the energy industry;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• changes in government regulation, taxes, legal proceedings or other developments;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• shortfalls in our operating results from levels forecasted by securities analysts;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• investor sentiment toward the stock of oil and gas companies;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• changes in revenue or earnings estimates, or changes in recommendations by equity research analysts;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• failure to achieve the perceived benefits of the acquisitions, including financial results and anticipated synergies, as rapidly as or to the extent anticipated by financial or industry analysts;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• speculation in the press or investment community;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the failure of research analysts to cover our stock;

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• sales of common stock by us, large shareholders or management, or the perception that such sales may occur;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• changes in accounting principles, policies, guidance, interpretations or standards;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• announcements concerning us or our competitors;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• public reaction to our press releases, other public announcements and filings with the SEC;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• strategic actions taken by competitors;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• actions taken by our shareholders;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• additions or departures of key management personnel;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• maintenance of acceptable credit ratings or credit quality; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the general state of the securities markets.

These and other factors may impair the market for our common stock and the ability of investors to sell shares at an attractive price. These factors also could cause the market price and demand for our common stock to fluctuate substantially, which may negatively affect the price and liquidity of our common stock. Many of these factors and conditions are beyond our control.

Securities class action litigation has often been instituted against companies following periods of volatility in the overall market and in the market price of a company's securities. Such litigation, if instituted against us, could result in very substantial costs, divert management's attention and resources and harm our business, operating results and financial condition.

**Legal and Regulatory Risks**

***We are subject to extensive governmental regulation, which can change and could adversely impact our business.***

Our operations are subject to extensive federal, state, local and other laws, rules and regulations, including with respect to the environment, worker health and safety, wildlife conservation, the gathering and transportation of gas, oil and NGLs, conservation policies, reporting obligations, royalty payments, unclaimed property, the imposition of taxes and tribal laws for a minor portion of our acreage. Such regulations include requirements for permits to drill and to conduct other operations and for provision of financial assurances (such as bonds) covering drilling, completion and well operations. If permits are not issued, or if unfavorable restrictions or conditions are imposed on our drilling or completion activities, we may not be able to conduct our operations as planned.

In addition, changes in public policy have affected, and in the future could further affect, our operations. At both the federal and state level, for example, there are an increasing number of legislative initiatives and proposals that may lead to reduced demand for fossil fuels such as oil and gas. These include certain tax advantages and other subsidies to support alternative energy sources or that mandate the use of specific fuels or technologies, in addition to the promotion of research into new technologies to reduce the cost and increase the scalability of alternative energy sources. The IRA, signed into law in August 2022, provides significant funding and incentives for research, development and implementation of low-carbon energy production methods, carbon capture, and other programs directed at addressing climate change. In January 2025, the current Presidential Administration announced Executive Orders related to climate, energy and environmental matters that, among other things, withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Agreement; paused issuance and implementation of pending regulations; required a review of recent final regulations and federal financial assurance potentially related to climate change and low-carbon initiatives, potentially including direct air capture and sequestration; and rescinded prior Executive Orders supportive of such projects. Additional actions by the current Presidential Administration or Congress to revise, amend, or roll back statutes like the IRA or Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, or regulations that support direct air capture, sequestration and other low-carbon ventures could materially impact our current or future low-carbon operations and strategy. See *Exploration and Production, Environmental, Health and Safety and Occupational Laws and* 

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*Regulations* included in Item 1 of Part I of this report for more information on methane emissions and greenhouse gas reporting.

*Pipeline Safety.* The pipeline assets in which we own interests are subject to stringent and complex regulations related to pipeline safety and integrity management. The PHMSA has established a series of rules that require pipeline operators to develop and implement integrity management programs for gas, NGL and condensate transmission pipelines as well as for certain low stress pipelines and gathering lines transporting hazardous liquids, such as oil, that, in the event of a failure, could affect "high consequence areas." Recent PHMSA rules have also extended certain requirements for integrity assessments and leak detections beyond high consequence areas and impose a number of reporting and inspection requirements on regulated pipelines. In November 2021, the PHMSA issued a final rule that expands certain federal pipeline safety requirements to all onshore gas gathering pipelines, regardless of size or location. The final rule establishes two new types of onshore gas gathering pipelines subject to varying degrees of regulation: all onshore gathering line operators are now subject to PHMSA's annual reporting and incident reporting requirements, and certain previously unregulated rural gas gathering lines must now comply with PHMSA damage prevention and, depending on the size of the pipeline, construction and operational requirements. The final rule became effective on May 16, 2022. Further, legislation funding the PHMSA through 2023 requires the agency to engage in additional rulemaking (i) to amend the integrity management program, emergency response plan, operation and maintenance manual and pressure control recordkeeping requirements for gas distribution operators, (ii) to create new leak detection and repair program obligations and (iii) to set new minimum federal safety standards for onshore gas gathering lines. In January 2025, the PHMSA finalized a rule that requires pipelines, underground natural gas storage facilities, and liquefied natural gas facilities to update leak detection and repair programs to require companies to use commercially available technologies to find and fix methane leaks from pipelines and other facilities. However, shortly before the rule could be published or become effective, the current Presidential Administration published an Executive Order directing federal agencies to immediately withdraw all unpublished rules pending further review and approval. Proposed bill H.R. 4818, introduced in the House of Representatives in July 2025, would codify the January 2025 PHMSA rule, but the bill has not passed to date. At this time, we cannot predict the cost of these requirements or other potential new or amended regulations, but they could be significant. Moreover, violations of pipeline safety regulations can result in the imposition of significant penalties. However, in January 2025, the current Presidential Administration issued an Executive Order directing the heads of all federal agencies to identify and begin the processes to suspend, revise, or rescind all agency actions that are unduly burdensome on the identification, development, or use of domestic energy resources. Consequently, future implementation and enforcement of these final rules remains uncertain at this time.

*Hydraulic Fracturing.* Hydraulic fracturing typically is regulated by state oil and natural gas commissions or similar agencies, but EPA has asserted federal regulatory authority pursuant to the Safe Drinking Water Act over certain hydraulic fracturing activities involving the use of diesel fuel in fracturing fluids and issued permitting guidance that applies to such activities.

Several states have adopted or are considering adopting regulations that could impose more stringent permitting, public disclosure and/or well construction requirements on hydraulic fracturing operations. State regulatory agencies have also recently focused on a possible connection between the operation of injection wells used for natural gas and oil waste disposal and seismic activity, which has caused some states, such as New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas, to implement seismicity response programs that allow state regulators to deny, modify, suspend or terminate injection well permits if the state regulator determines that the injection well is contributing or likely to contribute to seismic activity. In some instances, regulators may also order that disposal wells be shut in. States could also elect to prohibit high volume hydraulic fracturing altogether. A number of lawsuits have been filed alleging that disposal well operations have caused damage to neighboring properties or otherwise violated state and federal rules regulating waste disposal. In addition to state laws, local land use restrictions, such as city ordinances, may restrict drilling in general and/or hydraulic fracturing in particular. We cannot predict whether additional federal, state or local laws or regulations applicable to hydraulic fracturing will be enacted in the future and, if so, what actions any such laws or regulations would require or prohibit. If additional levels of regulation or permitting requirements were imposed on hydraulic fracturing operations, our business and operations could be subject to delays, increased operating and compliance costs and potential bans. Additional regulation could also lead to greater opposition to hydraulic fracturing, including litigation.

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*Climate Change and Regulation of Methane and Other Greenhouse Gas Emissions.* Political and social attention to the issue of climate change has resulted in legislative, regulatory and other initiatives to reduce GHG emissions, such as carbon dioxide and methane. Policy makers at both the U.S. federal and state levels have adopted, or are considering adopting, rules designed to quantify and limit the emission of GHGs through inventories, limitations and/or taxes on GHG emissions. For example, the EPA has issued regulations for the control of methane emissions, which include leak detection and repair requirements, for the gas and oil industry. In November 2021, the EPA proposed new performance standards and emissions guidelines for new, modified, reconstructed and existing oil and gas facilities. The proposed rule sought to make the existing regulations in Subpart OOOOa more stringent and create a Subpart OOOOb to expand reduction requirements for new, modified, and reconstructed oil and gas sources, including standards focusing on certain source types that have never been regulated under the CAA (including intermittent vent pneumatic controllers, associated gas, and liquids unloading facilities). In addition, the proposed rule sought to establish "Emissions Guidelines," creating a Subpart OOOOc that would require states to develop plans to reduce methane emissions from existing sources that must be at least as effective as presumptive standards set by EPA. In November 2022, the EPA issued a supplemental proposed rule, which among other things, removed an emissions monitoring exemption for small wellhead-only sites and created a new third-party monitoring program to flag large emissions events, referred to in the proposed rule as "super emitters". See *Exploration and Production, Environmental, Health and Safety and Occupational Laws and Regulations* included in Item 1 of Part I of this report for more information on the EPA's and BLM's rules.

In addition, several states in which we operate have imposed limitations designed to reduce methane emissions from gas and oil exploration and production activities. Legislative and state initiatives to date have generally focused on the development of renewable energy standards and/or cap-and-trade and/or carbon tax programs. Renewable energy standards (also referred to as renewable portfolio standards) require electric utilities to provide a specified minimum percentage of electricity from eligible renewable resources, with potential increases to the required percentage over time. The development of a federal renewable energy standard, or the development of additional or more stringent renewable energy standards at the state level could reduce the demand for gas and oil, thereby adversely impacting our earnings, cash flows and financial position. In addition, federal or state carbon taxes or fees could directly increase our costs of operation.

At the international level, the United Nations sponsored "Paris Agreement" requires member states to submit non-binding, individually determined reduction goals known as Nationally Determined Contributions every five years after 2020. Although the previous Presidential Administration recommitted the United States to the Paris Agreement in 2021 and announced a goal of reducing the United States' GHG emissions by 50-52% below 2005 levels by 2030, on January 20, 2025, the current Presidential Administration issued an Executive Order directing the immediate notice to the United Nations of the United States' withdrawal from the Paris Agreement and all other agreements made under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. At the same time, various state and local governments have publicly committed to furthering the goals of the Paris Agreement. As a result, it is not possible at this time to predict how legislation or regulations that may be adopted to address climate change, methane and other GHG emissions would impact our business. Further, the Supreme Court's decision in *Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo* to overrule *Chevron U.S.A. Inc. v. Natural Resources Defense Council, Inc.* and end the concept of general deference to regulatory agency interpretations of laws introduces new complexity for federal agencies and administration of climate change policy and regulatory programs. However, many of these initiatives at the international, state and local levels are expected to continue.

These various legislative, regulatory and other activities addressing GHG emissions could adversely affect our business, including by imposing reporting obligations on, or limiting emissions of GHGs from, our equipment and operations, which could require us to incur costs to reduce emissions of GHGs associated with our operations. Limitations on GHG emissions could also adversely affect demand for gas and oil, which could lower the value of our reserves and have a material adverse effect on our profitability, financial condition and liquidity. Additionally, political, litigation and financial risks may result in our restricting or canceling production activities, incurring liability for infrastructure damages as a result of climatic changes, or impairing our ability to continue to operate in an economic manner. One or more of these developments could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

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***Costs to comply with environmental, health and safety regulations and initiatives can be significant.***

As an owner, lessee or operator of gas and oil properties, we are subject to various federal, state, tribal and local laws and regulations relating to discharge of materials into, and protection of, the environment. These laws and regulations may, among other things, impose liability on us for the cost of remediating pollution that results from our operations. Environmental laws may impose strict, joint and several liability, and failure to comply with environmental laws and regulations can result in the imposition of administrative, civil or criminal fines and penalties, as well as injunctions limiting operations in affected areas. Any future costs associated with these matters are uncertain and could be influenced by several factors, including any new or amended regulatory requirements or changes to the interpretation of existing regulatory requirements. One or more of these matters could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Applicable environmental laws and regulations may:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• require the acquisition of a permit or other authorization and procurement of financial assurance before construction or drilling commences and for certain other activities;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• limit or prohibit construction, drilling and other activities on certain lands lying within wilderness and other protected areas; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• impose substantial liabilities for pollution resulting from our operations.

The permits required for our operations may be subject to revocation, modification and renewal by issuing authorities. Governmental authorities have the power to enforce their regulations, and violations are subject to fines or injunctions, or both. In the opinion of management, we are in substantial compliance with current applicable environmental laws and regulations, and have no material commitments for capital expenditures to comply with existing environmental requirements. Nevertheless, changes in existing environmental laws and regulations or in interpretations thereof could have a significant impact on our company, as well as the oil and natural gas industry in general.

The Comprehensive Environmental, Response, Compensation, and Liability Act ("CERCLA") and comparable state statutes impose strict, joint and several liability on several categories of persons, including current and former owners and operators of sites and on persons who disposed of or arranged for the disposal of "hazardous substances" found at such sites. It is not uncommon for the neighboring landowners and other third parties to file claims for personal injury and property damage allegedly caused by the hazardous substances released into the environment. The federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act ("RCRA") and comparable state statutes govern the disposal of "solid waste" and "hazardous waste" and authorize the imposition of substantial fines and penalties for noncompliance. Although CERCLA currently excludes petroleum from its definition of "hazardous substance," state laws affecting our operations may impose clean-up liability relating to petroleum and petroleum related products. In addition, although RCRA classifies certain oil field wastes as "non-hazardous" if properly handled, such exploration and production wastes could be reclassified in the future as hazardous wastes thereby making such wastes subject to more stringent handling and disposal requirements. Recent regulation and litigation that has been brought against others in the industry under RCRA concern liability for earthquakes that were allegedly caused by injection of oil field wastes.

The Endangered Species Act ("ESA") seeks to ensure that activities do not jeopardize endangered or threatened animal, fish and plant species, nor destroy or modify the critical habitat of such species. Under the ESA, if a species is listed as threatened or endangered, restrictions may be imposed on activities adversely affecting that species or its habitat. Accordingly, restrictions may be imposed on exploration and production operations, as well as actions by federal agencies, to avoid significantly impairing or jeopardizing the species or its habitat. The ESA provides for criminal penalties for willful violations of the ESA. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service must also designate the species' critical habitat and suitable habitat as part of the effort to ensure survival of the species. A critical habitat or suitable habitat designation could result in further material restrictions to land use and may materially delay or prohibit land access for oil and natural gas development. Other statutes that provide protection to animal and plant species and that may apply to our operations include, but are not necessarily limited to, the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, the Fishery Conservation and Management Act, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the National Historic Preservation Act. In April 2025, the U.S. Department of Interior issued a memo, M-37085, to repeal M-37065, which had previously declared that the Migratory Bird Treaty Act prohibited both the intentional and incidental "take" of migratory birds. The memo restored M-37050, clarifying that only the intentional "take" of

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migratory birds is prohibited. Additionally, in April 2025, the FWS and National Marine Fisheries Service proposed to redefine "harm" to mean affirmative acts that are directed immediately and intentionally against a particular animal, excluding acts or omissions that indirectly cause injury. Additionally, in November 2025, the current Presidential Administration proposed several rules that would significantly alter ESA protections for plants and animals. One proposed rule would rescind a rule that automatically extends protections for endangered species to threatened species. Another proposed rule would change regulations for listing species as endangered or threatened as well as for designating critical habitats. Additionally, a third proposed rule would reinstate the framework for evaluating the benefits and cost of designating a critical habitat by considering factors like economic impact, impact on national security, and other relevant impacts. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is expected to issue final rules in 2026. Although we believe that our operations are in substantial compliance with such statutes, future amendments are uncertain, and any change in these statutes or any reclassification of a species as endangered could subject our company (directly or indirectly through our operating partners) to significant expenses to modify our operations or could force discontinuation of certain operations altogether. There is also increasing interest in nature-related matters beyond protected species, such as general biodiversity, which may similarly require us or our customers to incur costs or take other measures which may adversely impact our business or operations.

The Clean Air Act ("CAA") controls air emissions from oil and natural gas production and natural gas processing operations, among other sources. CAA regulations include New Source Performance Standards ("NSPS") for the oil and natural gas source category to address emissions of sulfur dioxide and volatile organic compounds ("VOCs") and a separate set of emission standards to address hazardous air pollutants frequently associated with oil and natural gas production and processing activities.

The Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1972, or the Clean Water Act (the "CWA"), imposes restrictions and controls on the discharge of produced waters and other pollutants into waters of the United States ("WOTUS"). Permits must be obtained to discharge pollutants into state and federal waters and to conduct construction activities in waters and wetlands. The CWA and certain state regulations prohibit the discharge of produced water, sand, drilling fluids, drill cuttings, sediment and certain other substances related to the oil and gas industry into certain coastal and offshore waters without an individual or general National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System discharge permit. In addition, the CWA and analogous state laws require individual permits or coverage under general permits for discharges of storm water runoff from certain types of facilities. CWA jurisdiction depends on the definition of WOTUS. In January 2023, the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (the "Corps") issued a final rule that based the definition of WOTUS on a pre-2015 definition, which never took effect before being replaced in 2020. Separately, in May 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in Sackett v. EPA narrowed federal jurisdiction over wetlands to "traditional navigable waters" and wetlands or other waters that have a "continuous surface connection" with or are otherwise indistinguishable from traditional navigable water. In September 2023, the EPA and the Corps published a direct-to-final rule that conforms the regulatory definition of WOTUS to the Supreme Court's May 2023 decision in Sackett. However, roughly half of the states and other plaintiffs are challenging the September 2023 rule, and the EPA and the Corps are using the pre-2015 definition of WOTUS in these states while litigation continues. As a result, substantial uncertainty exists with respect to future implementation of the September 2023 rule and the scope of CWA jurisdiction more generally. Any expansion to CWA jurisdiction could impact areas where oil and gas operations are conducted. Some states also maintain groundwater protection programs that require permits for discharges or operations that may impact groundwater conditions. In 2021, the United States Supreme Court held that the CWA requires a discharge permit if the addition of pollutants through groundwater is the functional equivalent of a direct discharge from the point source into navigable waters. In November 2023, the EPA issued draft guidance describing the information that should be used to determine which discharges through groundwater may require a permit. However, in January 2025, the current Presidential Administration issued Executive Orders directing (i) the EPA and the Corps to identify planned or potential actions that could be subject to emergency treatment under Section 404 of the CWA and (ii) the heads of all federal agencies to identify and begin the processes to suspend, revise, or rescind all agency actions, including all existing regulations and guidance documents, that are unduly burdensome on the identification, development, or use of domestic energy resources. Accordingly, in November 2025, the Corps and the EPA issued a proposed rule revising the definition of WOTUS with the stated aim of conforming to the Supreme Court's decision in Sackett and revising certain regulatory terms, such as "relatively permanent," "tributary," and "continuous surface connection"; a final rule is expected in early 2026, and litigation is highly likely following issuance of the final rule. In January 2026, EPA also announced a proposed rule to revise the Section 401 state and tribal water quality certification regulations. The proposed rule aims to narrow the "activity"-based scope of state and tribal certification to point source discharges into waters of the United States. As a result, future implementation and enforcement of these rules and policies is

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uncertain at this time. Additionally, costs may be associated with the treatment of wastewater and/or developing and implementing storm water pollution prevention plans.

The CAA, CWA and comparable state statutes provide for civil, criminal and administrative penalties for unauthorized discharges of oil and other pollutants and impose liability on parties responsible for those discharges, for the costs of cleaning up any environmental damage caused by the release and for natural resource damages resulting from the release.

***Increasing attention to sustainability matters and our ability to achieve and maintain sustainability certifications, goals and commitments may impact our business, financial results or stock price.***

Increasing attention has been given to corporate activities related to sustainability matters in public discourse and the investment community. Expectations regarding voluntary sustainability initiatives and disclosures and consumer demand for more sustainable products, including alternative forms of energy, may result in increased costs (including but not limited to increased costs related to compliance, stakeholder engagement, contracting and insurance), changes in demand for certain products, increased availability of (and competition from) alternative energy sources and technologies, increased development of and demand for products that do not use fossil fuels or their derivatives, enhanced compliance or disclosure obligations or other adverse impacts to our business, financial condition or results of operations. Additionally, such expectations and related activism may result in demand shifts for natural gas, oil and NGLs in addition to potentially impacting our access to, and costs of, capital.

While we may at times engage in voluntary initiatives (such as voluntary disclosures, certifications or targets, among others) or commitments to improve our sustainability profile and/or products or to respond to stakeholder expectations, such initiatives or achievement of such commitments may be costly and may not have the desired effect. For example, while we are exploring initiatives related to various energy-related technologies, such as carbon capture and sequestration, this may require us to incur significant costs, and there is no guarantee that markets will develop, either in the manner we anticipate or at all, for the technologies in which we invest. In addition, we may commit to certain initiatives or goals, and we may not ultimately be able to achieve such commitments or goals, either on the timeframes or costs initially anticipated or at all, due to factors that are within or outside of our control. For example, while we have entered into a joint venture involving a new natural gas gathering pipeline and carbon capture project, a number of factors outside of our control could affect the success of the project, including evolving government regulation and voluntary protocols for reporting or verification of carbon emissions and their capture or sequestration, including new or different interpretations or reversal thereof, as well as the potential for enactment of opposing or incompatible statutes or regulations and changes in technology and other factors. Moreover, actions or statements that we may take based on expectations, assumptions or third-party information that we currently believe to be reasonable may subsequently be determined to be erroneous or be subject to misinterpretation. Even if this is not the case, our current actions may subsequently be determined to be insufficient by various stakeholders, and we may be subject to investor or regulator engagement on our sustainability initiatives and disclosures, even if such initiatives are currently voluntary. Any failure to comply with investor, customer or other stakeholder expectations and standards, which are evolving and can conflict, or if we are perceived to not have responded appropriately to the growing concern for sustainability issues, regardless of whether there is a legal requirement to do so, could cause reputational harm to our business, increase our risk of litigation, and could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. For example, plaintiffs have brought litigation against various companies, including those in the fossil fuel sector, alleging that such companies created public nuisances by producing, handling or marketing fuels that contributed to climate change or that the companies have been aware of the adverse effects of climate change for some time but failed to adequately disclose those impacts. While we are not currently parties to any such litigation, the ultimate outcomes of such litigation and its impact to us are uncertain; we could incur substantial legal costs associated with defending against these or similar lawsuits in the future.

In addition, organizations that provide information to investors on corporate governance and related matters have developed ratings systems for evaluating companies on their approach to sustainability matters. These ratings are used by some investors to inform their investment and voting decisions. Unfavorable ESG or sustainability ratings may lead to increased negative investor sentiment toward us and our industry and to the diversion of investment to other industries, which could have a negative impact on our stock price and our access to and costs of capital. To the extent sustainability matters negatively affect our reputation, it may also harm our ability to attract or retain employees or customers.

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Simultaneously, there are efforts by some stakeholders to reduce companies' efforts on certain sustainability-related matters. Both advocates and opponents to certain sustainability initiatives are increasingly resorting to a range of activism forms, including media campaigns and litigation, to advance their perspectives. To the extent we are subject to such activism, it may require us to incur costs or otherwise adversely impact our business.

Separately, various regulators have adopted, or are considering adopting, regulations on environmental marketing claims or the prevention of greenwashing more generally, including, but not limited to the use of "ESG," "sustainable," "eco-friendly," "green" or similar language in the marketing of products and services or the prevention of greenwashing more generally. Further, there have been increasing scrutiny on sustainability-related claims and frequency of allegations of "greenwashing" against companies making sustainability-related claims due to, among other things, allegations of incomplete, false or misleading disclosures, including with respect to the sustainable nature of their operations and products, as well as to a variety of perceived deficiencies in performance, including as stakeholder perceptions of sustainability continue to evolve.

There may be new regulation, disclosure-related and otherwise, with respect to sustainability matters, which will likely lead to increased compliance costs as well as scrutiny that could heighten all of the risks identified in this risk factor. Such sustainability matters may also impact our suppliers or customers, which could augment existing, or cause additional, impacts to our business or operations. To date, we have not incurred material sustainability-related costs, but we cannot guarantee that we will not incur such costs in the future.

***The taxation of independent producers is subject to change, and changes in tax law could increase our cost of doing business.***

We are subject to taxation by various governmental authorities at the federal, state and local levels in the jurisdictions in which we do business. New legislation could be enacted by any of these governmental authorities making it more costly for us to produce natural gas and oil by increasing our tax burden. The IRA was enacted on August 16, 2022, and included, among other things, a 15% corporate alternative minimum tax ("CAMT") on adjusted financial statement income. Based on our book income for the past three years, we believe we are subject to the CAMT and will remain subject to the CAMT for the foreseeable future. In addition, state and local authorities could enact new legislation that would increase various taxes such as sales, severance and ad valorem taxes as well as accelerate the collection of such taxes.

***The completion of the Southwestern Merger in 2024 triggered an annual limitation on the utilization of our tax attributes, reducing our ability to offset future taxable income, which may result in an increase to income tax liabilities. In addition, trading in our common stock, additional issuance of common stock, and certain other stock transactions could lead to an additional, potentially more restrictive, annual limitation.*** 

Upon the completion of the Southwestern Merger, we experienced an ownership change under Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code" and such change, a "Section 382 Ownership Change"), for purposes of both Southwestern's tax attributes as well as for our own. We believe that the annual limitation on the utilization of our tax attributes resulting from the Southwestern Merger is less restrictive than the Section 382 Ownership Change we experienced in 2021. As a result, the new limitation would generally only apply to those tax attributes generated subsequent to that first ownership change.

Moreover, trading in our stock, additional issuances, and other stock transactions occurring subsequent to the Southwestern Merger could lead to a further Section 382 Ownership Change. In the event of any additional Section 382 Ownership Change a new annual limitation would be determined at such time that could be more restrictive than the current limitations. Depending on the market conditions and our tax basis, an additional Section 382 Ownership Change may result in a net unrealized built-in loss. The annual limitation in such a case would additionally be applied to certain of our tax items other than just net operating loss ("NOL") carryforwards, disallowed business interest carryforwards and tax credits. For example, a portion of tax depreciation, depletion and amortization would also be subject to the annual limitation for a five-year period following the Section 382 Ownership Change but only to the extent of the net unrealized built-in loss existing at the time of the additional Section 382 Ownership Change. Whether the new annual limitation would be more restrictive would depend on the value of our stock and the long-term tax-exempt rate in effect at the time of such Section 382 Ownership Change.

Some states would impose similar limitations on tax attribute utilization upon experiencing an additional Section 382 Ownership Change.

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***Judicial decisions can affect our rights and obligations.***

Our ability to develop natural gas, oil and NGL depends on the leases and other mineral rights we acquire and the rights of owners of nearby properties. We operate in areas where judicial decisions have not yet definitively interpreted various contractual provisions or addressed relevant aspects of property rights, nuisance and other matters that could be the source of claims against us as a developer or operator of properties. Although we plan our activities according to our expectations of these unresolved areas, based on decisions on similar issues in these jurisdictions and decisions from courts in other states that have addressed them, courts could resolve issues in ways that increase our liabilities or otherwise restrict or add costs to our operations.

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| **Item 1B.** | ***Unresolved Staff Comments*** |

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Not applicable.

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| **Item 1C.** | ***Cybersecurity*** |

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***Cybersecurity Risk Management and Strategy***

We have developed and implemented a cybersecurity risk management program intended to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of our critical systems and information.

We design and assess our cybersecurity risk management program guided by the NIST Cybersecurity Framework to help us identify, assess and manage cybersecurity risks relevant to our business.

Our cybersecurity risk management program is integrated into our overall enterprise risk management program, and shares common methodologies, reporting channels and governance processes that apply across the enterprise risk management program to other legal, compliance, strategic, operational, and financial risk areas.

Our cybersecurity risk management program includes, but is not limited to, the following key elements:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• risk assessments designed to help identify and address material cybersecurity risks to our critical systems and information;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• a security team principally responsible for managing our cybersecurity risk assessment processes, our security controls, and our response to cybersecurity incidents;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the use of external service providers, where appropriate, to assess, test or otherwise assist with aspects of our security processes;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• systems for protecting information technology systems and monitoring for suspicious events, such as threat protection, firewall and anti-virus software;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• cybersecurity awareness training for our employees and contractors;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• a cybersecurity incident response plan that includes procedures for responding to, escalating, and reporting cybersecurity incidents; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• a third-party risk management process for service providers, suppliers, software, and vendors who access our data and/or systems.

We have not identified risks from known cybersecurity threats, including as a result of any prior cybersecurity incidents, that have materially affected us, including our business strategy, results of operations, or financial condition. We face certain ongoing risks from cybersecurity threats that, if realized, are reasonably likely to materially affect us, including our business strategy, results of operations, or financial condition. See Item 1A. Risk Factors "*Cyber-attacks targeting systems and infrastructure used by the gas and oil industry and related regulations may adversely impact our operations and, if we or our third-party providers are unable to obtain and maintain adequate protection for our key systems and data, our business may be harmed.*"

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***Cybersecurity Governance***

Our Board of Directors considers cybersecurity risk as a critical part of the enterprise and its risk oversight function and has delegated to its Audit Committee oversight of cybersecurity and other information technology risks. Our Audit Committee oversees management's implementation of our cybersecurity risk management program.

Our Audit Committee receives bi-annual updates from management on our cybersecurity risks. In addition, management updates our Audit Committee, as necessary, regarding any significant cybersecurity incidents.

Our Audit Committee reports to the full Board of Directors regarding its activities, including those related to cybersecurity. Our Board of Directors also receives briefings from management on our cybersecurity risk management program. Members of our Board of Directors receive presentations on cybersecurity topics from information security management, internal security staff, our internal audit group and external experts as part of our Board of Directors' continuing education on topics that impact public companies.

Our Cybersecurity Manager leads our cybersecurity risk management program and supervises both our internal cybersecurity personnel and our retained external cybersecurity consultants. Our Cybersecurity Manager is responsible for assessing and managing risks from cybersecurity threats and reporting significant incidents to our Cybersecurity Committee, which includes our Interim Chief Financial Officer, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary, Chief Information Officer, Cybersecurity Manager and Director of Internal Audit. Our Cybersecurity Manager has over 20 years of experience in information security and incident response and our internal cybersecurity team has over 50 years of combined experience in information security and maintains several cybersecurity certificates including but not limited to CISSP, CISM, SRISC, GSEC, and GCFE. Our Cybersecurity team regularly participates with private energy industry and federal security working groups and organizations. The members of our Cybersecurity Committee have significant experience in risk management, assessment of disclosure controls, information technology and auditing.

Our management team strives to stay informed about and monitors efforts to prevent, detect, mitigate, and remediate cybersecurity risks and incidents through various means, including, as appropriate, briefings from internal security personnel, threat intelligence and other information obtained from governmental, public or private sources, such as external consultants engaged by us, and alerts and reports produced by security tools deployed in the IT environment.

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| **Item 2.** | ***Properties*** |

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Information regarding our properties is included in Item 1. Business of Part I of this report and in the Supplementary Information included in <u>[Item 8 of Part II](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_121)</u> of this report.

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| **Item 3.** | ***Legal Proceedings*** |

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*Litigation and Regulatory Proceedings* 

We are involved in various regulatory proceedings, lawsuits and disputes arising in the ordinary course of our business operations, including commercial disputes, personal injury claims, royalty claims, property damage claims and contract actions. We are also party to the consolidated Chapter 11 Cases pending for the Debtors in the Bankruptcy Court. Legal proceedings that were in existence prior to the Petition Date and have not yet been settled as part of the Chapter 11 Cases will be resolved in connection with the claims reconciliation process before the Bankruptcy Court. Any allowed claim related to such prepetition litigation will be treated in accordance with the Plan. Any legal proceeding pending against Southwestern and assumed by us in connection with the Southwestern Merger is not subject to discharge or resolution as part of the Chapter 11 Cases.

See <u>[Note 5](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_154)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for information regarding our estimation and provision for potential losses related to litigation and regulatory proceedings. Based on management's current assessment, we are of the opinion that no pending or threatened lawsuit or dispute relating to our business operations is likely to have a material adverse effect on our future consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Pursuant to this item, we use a threshold of $1 million for purposes of determining whether any legal proceedings in regards to federal, state or local environmental laws with a governmental authority require disclosure. This $1 million disclosure threshold does not imply that this amount is necessarily material to our business or financial condition, and as of December 31, 2025, there were no environmental proceedings to disclose. The final resolution of such matters could exceed amounts accrued, however, and actual results could differ materially from management's estimates.

*Environmental Contingencies*

The nature of the natural gas and oil business carries with it certain environmental risks for us and our subsidiaries. We have implemented various policies, programs, procedures, training and audits to reduce and mitigate such environmental risks. We conduct periodic reviews, on a company-wide basis, to assess changes in our environmental risk profile. Environmental reserves are established for environmental liabilities for which economic losses are probable and reasonably estimable. We manage our exposure to environmental liabilities in acquisitions by using an evaluation process that seeks to identify pre-existing contamination or compliance concerns and address the potential liability. Depending on the extent of an identified environmental concern, we may, among other things, exclude a property from the transaction, require the seller to remediate the property to our satisfaction in an acquisition or agree to assume liability for the remediation of the property.

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| **Item 4.** | ***Mine Safety Disclosures*** |

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The information concerning mine safety violations and other regulatory matters required by Section 1503(a) of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and Item 104 of Regulation S-K (17 CFR 229.104) is included in Exhibit 95.1 to this Form 10-K.

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**PART II**

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| **Item 5.** | ***Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities*** |

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**Common Stock**

Our common stock is traded on the NASDAQ under the "EXE" trading symbol. Additionally, our Class A Warrants, Class B Warrants and Class C Warrants were traded on the NASDAQ under the "EXEEW", "EXEEZ" and "EXEEL" trading symbols, respectively. The Warrants expired on February 9, 2026 and are no longer listed for trading. More information on our common stock and Warrants can be found in <u>[Note 10](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_172)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report.

**Dividends**

In March 2022, we adopted a variable return program that resulted in the payment of an additional variable dividend equal to the sum of Adjusted Free Cash Flow from the prior quarter less the base quarterly dividend, multiplied by 50%. Effective for 2025, we prioritized paying a base dividend per share and provided for annual net debt reduction prior to additional shareholder returns such as additional dividend payments or share repurchases. The declaration and payment of any future dividend is subject to the approval of our Board of Directors in its discretion. For additional information on our dividends, see <u>[Note 10](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_172)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report.

**Repurchases of Equity Securities; Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds**

On October 22, 2024 our Board of Directors authorized repurchases of up to $1.0 billion, in aggregate, of the Company's common stock and/or warrants under a share repurchase program. The repurchase authorization permits repurchases on a discretionary basis subject to market conditions, obtaining required internal approvals, applicable legal requirements, available liquidity, compliance with the Company's debt agreements and other appropriate factors. We did not repurchase any shares of our common stock during the quarter ended December 31, 2025. As of December 31, 2025, the approximate dollar value of shares that may yet be purchased under the share repurchase program was $900 million.

**Stockholders**

As of February 11, 2026, there were approximately 1,244 holders of record of our common stock.

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| **Item 6.** | ***Reserved*** |

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| **Item 7.** | ***Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations*** |

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This Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations is intended to provide a reader of our financial statements with management's perspective on our financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and certain other factors that may affect our future results. This information is intended to provide investors with an understanding of our past performance, current financial condition and outlook for the future and should be read in conjunction with <u>[Item 8 of Part II](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_121)</u> of this report.

**Introduction**

On October 1, 2024, we completed the Southwestern Merger, creating a premier energy company that we believe is underpinned by a leading natural gas portfolio adjacent to the highest demand markets, premium inventory, a resilient financial foundation and an investment grade balance sheet. We believe that this new company is uniquely positioned to deliver affordable, lower-carbon energy to meet growing domestic and international demand while creating sustainable value for stakeholders. In conjunction with the closing of the Southwestern Merger, Chesapeake Energy Corporation changed its name to Expand Energy Corporation.

Expand Energy is the largest independent natural gas producer in the U.S., based on net daily production, and is focused on responsibly developing an abundant supply of natural gas, oil and NGL to expand energy access for all. Our operations are located in Louisiana and Texas in the Haynesville and Bossier Shales ("Haynesville"), in Pennsylvania in the Marcellus Shale ("Northeast Appalachia") and in West Virginia and Ohio in the Marcellus and Utica Shales ("Southwest Appalachia").

Our strategy is to create resilient shareholder value through the responsible development of our significant resource plays while continuing to be a leading provider of natural gas to growing markets. We continue to focus on improving margins through operating efficiencies, marketing and commercial efforts and financial discipline and improving our safety and sustainability performance. To accomplish these goals, we plan to allocate our human resources and capital expenditures to projects we believe offer the highest cash return on capital invested, to deploy leading drilling and completion technology throughout our portfolio, and to take advantage of acquisition and divestiture opportunities to strengthen our portfolio. We also intend to continue to invest in projects designed to reduce the environmental impact of our production activities.

Additionally, we aim to be conscientious in our efforts and how they will shape our approach to sustainability for the future and have established the following goals:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Net zero (Scope 1 and 2) greenhouse gas emissions by 2035.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Maintain 100% responsibly sourced gas (RSG) certification across our portfolio.

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**Recent and Significant Developments**

*Southwestern Merger*

On October 1, 2024, we completed the Southwestern Merger and issued approximately 95.7 million shares of our common stock to Southwestern's shareholders in connection with the Merger Agreement. Under the terms of the Merger Agreement, subject to certain exceptions, each share of Southwestern common stock was converted into the right to receive 0.0867 of a share of the Company's common stock. Based on the closing price of our common stock, the total value of such shares of our common stock issued to Southwestern's shareholders was approximately $7.9 billion. See <u>[Note 2](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_145)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for further discussion.

*Investment Grade Rating*

On October 1, 2024, we received an investment grade rating from S&P Global Ratings ("S&P"). S&P assigned an issuer-level rating of 'BBB-' on our unsecured debt and raised our issuer credit rating to 'BBB-', with a stable outlook. Additionally, on October 2, 2024, we received an investment grade rating from Fitch Ratings ("Fitch"). Fitch affirmed our revolver credit rating at 'BBB-' and upgraded the rating on our senior notes to 'BBB-', with a stable outlook. Additionally, on April 16, 2025, we received an investment grade rating from Moody's Ratings ("Moody's"). Moody's upgraded the rating on our senior unsecured notes from Ba1 to Baa3, with a stable outlook.

*Addition to the S&P 500 Index*

In March 2025, following the close of the Southwestern Merger and the receipt of investment grade ratings, our common stock was added to the S&P 500.

*Credit Facility*

On September 30, 2025, the Company entered into an Amended and Restated Credit Agreement that, among other things, extended the 2025 Credit Facility's maturity date from December 2027 to September 2030, with two one-year extension options available, each subject to the Lenders' consent, increased the aggregate commitments under the 2025 Credit Facility from $2.5 billion to $3.5 billion with incremental capacity for additional commitments in an amount up to $1.0 billion, subject to the receipt of commitments thereto and certain customary conditions. The Credit Agreement also increased the sublimit available for the issuance of letters of credit from $500 million to $1.0 billion and increased the sublimit available for swingline loans from $50 million to $100 million. See <u>[Note 4](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_151)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for further discussion.

*Issuance of Senior Notes and Senior Notes Repayment*

In December 2024, we completed our underwritten public offering of $750 million aggregate principal amount of our 5.70% Senior Notes due 2035 (the "2035 Notes"). Additionally, we announced an offer to purchase for cash, any and all of our outstanding 2026 Notes (the "Tender Offer"). Upon expiration of the Tender Offer, approximately 91%, or $453 million, of the 2026 Notes were validly tendered and not validly withdrawn. In a separate transaction during the fourth quarter of 2024, we redeemed all of the $304 million aggregate principal of the SWN 2028 Notes for approximately $312 million, which included an $8 million premium to call the notes.

In January 2025, the $389 million aggregate principal of the SWN 2025 Notes was repaid and terminated with cash on hand and borrowings on the Prior Credit Facility. Additionally, in March 2025, we redeemed the remaining $47 million aggregate principal of the 2026 Notes with cash on hand. During 2025, we also redeemed approximately $103 million of our 6.750% Senior Notes due 2029, approximately $60 million of our 5.875% Senior Notes due 2029 and approximately $62 million of our 5.375% Senior Notes due 2029 through open market repurchases using cash on hand. See <u>[Note 4](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_151)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for further discussion.

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*Shareholder Returns*

In October 2024, our Board of Directors authorized the Company to repurchase up to $1.0 billion, in aggregate, of the Company's common stock and/or warrants. In 2025, we prioritized paying the base dividend of $2.30 per share and $1.0 billion of annual net debt reduction, with 75% of the remaining free cash flow distributed, as market conditions warranted, through share repurchases and additional dividend payments. During 2025, we made dividend payments of $765 million, repurchased 0.9 million shares for an aggregate price of $100 million, reduced the principal amount of our debt through senior notes repayments as noted above, and increased our cash on hand. See <u>[Note 10](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_172)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for further discussion on our dividend payments and share repurchases. In 2026, the Company will continue to prioritize debt reduction while continuing to effectively return cash to shareholders.

*Economic and Market Conditions*

Geopolitical risk and policy uncertainty continue to drive volatility in natural gas, oil and NGL prices, while macroeconomic headwinds in key consuming countries could impact global growth prospects, potentially affecting supply and demand for energy commodities. Domestically, the natural gas market balance has tightened through 2027 as robust demand, primarily driven by seasonal weather-driven consumption patterns and increasing structural demand gains from LNG, power generation, and industrials, has put upward pressure and additional volatility on near-term pricing. Our future estimated cash flow is partially protected from commodity price volatility due to our current hedge positions that provide a floor price on over 60% of our projected gas volumes through the end of 2026 with significant upside participation via costless collars and three-way collars. For the foreseeable future, we believe our operational flexibility, cost structure and liquidity position will enable us to successfully navigate continued price volatility.

We continue to monitor factors impacting commodity supply and demand situations, including tariffs on steel, and assess their impact on our business, including business partners and customers. As part of the Southwestern Merger, we assumed Southwestern's oilfield service business that will allow for some vertical integration of our exploration and production operations, which may help to control costs and secure inputs for our operations. For additional discussion regarding risk associated with price volatility and economic uncertainty, see Item 1A Risk Factors in this report.

*Management Changes*

On February 6, 2026, the Board of Directors of the Company appointed Mr. Wichterich, Chairman of the Board, as Interim President and Chief Executive Officer, replacing Domenic J. Dell'Osso, Jr., effective immediately. In connection with his separation, Mr. Dell'Osso also resigned from the Board of Directors, effective immediately. Mr. Dell'Osso will serve as an external advisor for a period of time.

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**Liquidity and Capital Resources**

*Liquidity Overview*

Our primary sources of capital resources and liquidity are internally generated cash flows from operations and borrowings under our 2025 Credit Facility, and our primary uses of cash are for the development of our natural gas and oil properties, acquisitions of additional natural gas and oil properties, repayments of debt and return of value to stockholders through dividends and equity repurchases. If needed, we also have the ability to issue equity or debt securities through public offerings or private placements. We believe our cash flow from operations, cash on hand and unused borrowing capacity under the 2025 Credit Facility, as discussed below, will provide sufficient liquidity during the next 12 months and the foreseeable future. As of December 31, 2025, we had $4.1 billion of liquidity available, including $616 million of cash on hand and $3.5 billion of aggregate unused borrowing capacity available under the 2025 Credit Facility. As of December 31, 2025, we had no outstanding borrowings under our 2025 Credit Facility.

Further, we may from time to time seek to retire, refinance or amend some or all of our outstanding debt or debt agreements through exchanges, open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions, tender offers or otherwise. Such transactions, if any, and the terms thereof, will depend on prevailing market conditions, our liquidity requirements, contractual restrictions and other factors. The amounts involved in such financing transactions may be material. See <u>[Note 4](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_151)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for further discussion of our debt obligations, including principal and carrying amounts of our senior notes.

*Dividends*

On February 17, 2026, we declared a base quarterly dividend payable of $0.575 per share, which will be paid on March 26, 2026 to stockholders of record at the close of business on March 5, 2026. See <u>[Note 10](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_172)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for further discussion.

The declaration and payment of any future dividend, whether fixed or variable, will remain at the full discretion of the Board of Directors and will depend on the Company's financial results, cash requirements, future prospects and other relevant factors. The Company's ability to pay dividends to its stockholders is restricted by (i) Oklahoma corporate law, (ii) its Certificate of Incorporation, (iii) the terms and provisions of the Credit Agreement and (iv) the terms and provisions of the Indentures governing our senior notes. See <u>[Note 4](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_151)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for further discussion of our debt obligations.

*Derivative and Hedging Activities*

Our results of operations and cash flows are impacted by changes in market prices for natural gas, oil and NGL. We enter into various derivative instruments to mitigate a portion of our exposure to commodity price declines, but these transactions may also limit our cash flows in periods of rising commodity prices. Our natural gas, oil and NGL derivative activities, when combined with our sales of natural gas, oil and NGL, allow us to better predict the total revenue we expect to receive. See <u>[Item 7A.](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_118)</u> Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk included in Part II of this report for further discussion on the impact of commodity price risk on our financial position.

*Shelf Registration*

We have a universal shelf registration statement on file with the SEC, as a "well-known seasoned issuer" as defined in Rule 405 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), under which we have the ability to issue and sell an indeterminate amount of various types of debt and equity securities. The specific terms of any securities to be sold will be described in supplemental filings with the SEC. There were no sales of such securities during the year ended December 31, 2025. Our shelf registration statement will expire in November 2027.

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*Contractual Obligations and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements*

As of December 31, 2025, our material contractual obligations include repayment of senior notes, derivative obligations, asset retirement obligations, lease obligations, undrawn letters of credit and various other commitments we enter into in the ordinary course of business that could result in future cash obligations. In addition, we have contractual commitments with midstream companies and pipeline carriers for future gathering, processing and transportation of natural gas to move certain of our production to market. The estimated gross undiscounted future commitments under these agreements were approximately $9.6 billion as of December 31, 2025. As discussed above, we believe our existing sources of liquidity will be sufficient to fund our near and long-term contractual obligations. See <u>[Notes 4](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_151)</u>, <u>[5](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_154)</u>, <u>[7](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_163)</u>, <u>[13](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_181)</u> and <u>[16](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_196)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for further discussion.

*Credit Facility*

On September 30, 2025, we entered into the Credit Agreement, which matures in September 2030. The 2025 Credit Facility provides for aggregate commitments of $3.5 billion, with a $1.0 billion sublimit available for the issuance of letters of credit and a $100 million sublimit available for swingline loans. Borrowings under the Credit Agreement may be alternate base rate loans or term SOFR loans, at the Company's election. As of December 31, 2025, we had $3.5 billion available for borrowings under the 2025 Credit Facility. See <u>[Note 4](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_151)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for further discussion.

*Assumption of Southwestern's Senior Notes and Southwestern Credit Facility Extinguishment*

On October 1, 2024, the Southwestern Merger was completed, and we assumed approximately $3.7 billion of Southwestern's senior notes. On October 1, 2024, Southwestern's existing credit facility was terminated, with all loan amounts and other obligations outstanding thereunder repaid in full and all commitments thereunder extinguished, for approximately $585 million, which included all outstanding borrowings, accrued interest and transaction fees. See <u>[Note 4](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_151)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for further discussion.

*Capital Expenditures*

For the year ending December 31, 2026, we currently expect to complete and turn in line 205 to 235 gross wells utilizing approximately 11 to 12 rigs and plan to invest between approximately $2.75 – $2.95 billion in capital expenditures. We currently plan to fund our 2026 capital program through cash on hand, expected cash flow from our operations and borrowings under our 2025 Credit Facility. We may alter or change our plans with respect to our capital program and expected capital expenditures based on developments in our business, our financial position, our industry or any of the markets in which we operate.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

*Sources and (Uses) of Cash and Cash Equivalents*

The following table presents the sources and uses of our cash and cash equivalents for the periods presented:

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| Cash provided by operating activities | $4575 | $1565 | $2380 |
| Proceeds from divestitures of property and equipment | 70 | 21 | 2533 |
| Receipts of deferred consideration | 116 | 166 |  |
| Proceeds from issuance of senior notes, net |  | 747 |  |
| Proceeds from warrant exercise | 24 | 3 |  |
| Capital expenditures | (2736) | (1557) | (1829) |
| Contributions to investments | (14) | (75) | (231) |
| Payments on Prior Credit Facility, net |  |  | (1050) |
| Business combination, net |  | (459) |  |
| Property acquisitions | (195) |  |  |
| Cash paid to purchase debt | (663) | (767) |  |
| Debt issuance and other financing costs | (11) | (11) |  |
| Cash paid to repurchase and retire common stock | (100) |  | (355) |
| Cash paid for common stock dividends | (765) | (388) | (487) |
| Other |  | (3) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash | $301 | $(758) | $961 |

---

*Cash Flow from Operating Activities*

Cash provided by operating activities was $4.58 billion, $1.57 billion and $2.38 billion during the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The increase in 2025 is primarily due to increased sales volumes, including those related to the Southwestern Merger, as well as higher prices for the natural gas we sold. The decrease in 2024 is primarily due to lower prices for the natural gas, oil and NGL we sold. Cash flows from operations are largely affected by the same factors that affect our net income, excluding various non-cash items, such as depreciation, depletion and amortization, certain impairments, gains or losses on sales of assets, deferred income taxes and mark-to-market changes in our open derivative instruments. See further discussion below under *Results of Operations*.

*Proceeds from Divestitures of Property and Equipment*

In 2025, we sold a portion of our Oklahoma City campus as well as certain minor leasehold positions. In 2023, we sold our Eagle Ford assets through three separate transactions resulting in total cash proceeds of $2.5 billion after customary post-closing adjustments. See <u>[Note 2](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_145)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for further discussion.

*Receipts of Deferred Consideration*

During the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024, we received $116 million and $166 million, respectively, in deferred consideration associated with our Eagle Ford divestiture transactions. See <u>[Note 2](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_145)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for further discussion.

*Proceeds from Issuance of Senior Notes, net*

In 2024, we completed our underwritten public offering of $750 million aggregate principal amount of our 5.70% Senior Notes due 2035. See <u>[Note 4](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_151)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for further discussion.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

*Capital Expenditures*

Our capital expenditures during the year ended December 31, 2025 increased compared to the year ended December 31, 2024, primarily as a result of increased drilling and completion activity within our operating areas, including those related to the Southwestern Merger. Our capital expenditures during the year ended December 31, 2024 decreased compared to the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily as a result of decreased drilling and completion activity within our Northeast Appalachia and Haynesville operating areas, as well as reduced activity in Eagle Ford due to our Eagle Ford divestitures. During the year ended December 31, 2025, our average operated rig count was 11 rigs and 188 spud wells, compared to an average operated rig count of 9 rigs and 133 spud wells in the year ended December 31, 2024 and 11 rigs and 193 spud wells in the year ended December 31, 2023. We completed 272 operated wells in the year ended December 31, 2025 compared to 81 in the year ended December 31, 2024 and 166 in the year ended December 31, 2023.

*Contributions to Investments*

During the year ended December 31, 2025, contributions to investments primarily related to capitalized interest on our investment with Momentum Sustainable Ventures LLC. During the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, contributions to investments primarily consisted of contributions to our investment with Momentum Sustainable Ventures LLC to build a new natural gas gathering pipeline and carbon capture project, the NG3 pipeline. In October 2025, the NG3 pipeline was placed in service and began gathering operations. See <u>[Note 15](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_190)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for additional information.

*Payments on Prior Credit Facility, net*

During the year ended December 31, 2023, we made net repayments of $1.05 billion on the Prior Credit Facility, utilizing a portion of the proceeds from the Eagle Ford divestitures and internally generated cash provided by operating activities.

*Business Combination, net* 

In connection with the completion of the Southwestern Merger during 2024, we terminated Southwestern's existing credit facility, with all loan amounts and other obligations outstanding thereunder repaid in full and all commitments thereunder extinguished, for approximately $585 million utilizing cash on hand as well as the cash assumed from Southwestern. See <u>[Note 2](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_145)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for further discussion of this acquisition.

*Property Acquisitions*

Property acquisitions during the year ended December 31, 2025 primarily related to undeveloped leasehold acquired in Haynesville and Southwest Appalachia.

*Cash Paid to Purchase Debt*

In 2025, the $389 million aggregate principal of the SWN 2025 Notes was repaid and terminated upon maturity with cash on hand and borrowings under the Prior Credit Facility, of which the Prior Credit Facility borrowings were subsequently repaid. Additionally, we redeemed the remaining $47 million aggregate principal of the 2026 Notes using cash on hand. We also redeemed approximately $103 million of our 6.750% Senior Notes due 2029, approximately $60 million of our 5.875% Senior Notes due 2029 and approximately $62 million of our 5.375% Senior Notes due 2029 through open market repurchases using cash on hand.

In 2024, we announced an offer to purchase for cash, any and all of our outstanding 2026 Notes, the "Tender Offer". Upon expiration of the Tender Offer, approximately 91%, or $453 million, of the 2026 Notes were validly tendered and not validly withdrawn. In a separate transaction during the fourth quarter of 2024, we redeemed all of the $304 million aggregate principal of the 2028 Notes assumed in the Southwestern Merger for approximately $312 million, which included an $8 million premium to call the notes. See <u>[Note 4](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_151)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for further discussion.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

*Cash Paid to Repurchase and Retire Common Stock*

On October 22, 2024, our Board of Directors authorized repurchases of up to $1.0 billion, in aggregate, of the Company's common stock and/or warrants under a share repurchase program. During 2025, we repurchased 0.9 million shares for an aggregate price of $100 million. We did not repurchase any shares during 2024. During 2023, we repurchased 4.4 million shares of our common stock for an aggregate cost of approximately $355 million. The repurchased shares of common stock were retired and recorded as a reduction to common stock and retained earnings. See <u>[Note 10](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_172)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for further discussion.

*Cash Paid for Common Stock Dividends*

As part of our dividend program, we paid common stock dividends of $765 million, $388 million and $487 million during the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively. See <u>[Note 10](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_172)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for further discussion.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**Results of Operations**

***Year ended December 31, 2025 compared to the year ended December 31, 2024***

Below is a discussion of changes in our results of operations for 2025 compared to 2024. The results of operations discussed below include amounts pertaining to Southwestern after the merger closed on October 1, 2024. A discussion of changes in our results of operations for 2024 compared to 2023 has been omitted from this Form 10-K, but may be found in *<u>[Part II, Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000089512625000021/exe-20241231.htm#ib7b801adb71e427e9563e3d1bc6b225c_112)</u>* of our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 as filed with the SEC on February 26, 2025.

*Natural Gas, Oil and NGL Production and Average Sales Prices*

---

| | | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Year Ended December 31, 2025** | **Year Ended December 31, 2025** | **Year Ended December 31, 2025** | **Year Ended December 31, 2025** | **Year Ended December 31, 2025** | **Year Ended December 31, 2025** | **Year Ended December 31, 2025** | **Year Ended December 31, 2025** |
| | **Natural Gas** | **Natural Gas** | **Oil** | **Oil** | **NGL** | **NGL** | **Total** | **Total** |
| | **MMcf per day** | **$/Mcf** | **MBbl per day** | **$/Bbl** | **MBbl per day** | **$/Bbl** | **MMcfe per day** | **$/Mcfe** |
| Haynesville | 3000 | 3.17 |  |  |  |  | 3000 | 3.17 |
| Northeast Appalachia | 2624 | 2.99 |  |  |  |  | 2624 | 2.99 |
| Southwest Appalachia | 976 | 3.08 | 16 | 54.47 | 81 | 24.48 | 1559 | 3.76 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | 6600 | 3.08 | 16 | 54.47 | 81 | 24.48 | 7183 | 3.23 |
| Average NYMEX Price |  | 3.43 |  | 64.81 |  |  |  |  |
| Average Realized Price (including realized derivatives) |  | 3.16 |  | 55.60 |  | 24.30 |  | 3.30 |
|  | **Year Ended December 31, 2024** | **Year Ended December 31, 2024** | **Year Ended December 31, 2024** | **Year Ended December 31, 2024** | **Year Ended December 31, 2024** | **Year Ended December 31, 2024** | **Year Ended December 31, 2024** | **Year Ended December 31, 2024** |
|  | **Natural Gas** | **Natural Gas** | **Oil** | **Oil** | **NGL** | **NGL** | **Total** | **Total** |
|  | **MMcf per day** | **$/Mcf** | **MBbl per day** | **$/Bbl** | **MBbl per day** | **$/Bbl** | **MMcfe per day** | **$/Mcfe** |
| Haynesville | 1532 | 2.14 |  |  |  |  | 1532 | 2.14 |
| Northeast Appalachia | 1809 | 1.88 |  |  |  |  | 1809 | 1.88 |
| Southwest Appalachia | 270 | 2.42 | 3 | 60.41 | 21 | 27.44 | 417 | 3.42 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | 3611 | 2.03 | 3 | 60.41 | 21 | 27.44 | 3758 | 2.16 |
| Average NYMEX Price |  | 2.27 |  | 75.72 |  |  |  |  |
| Average Realized Price (including realized derivatives) |  | 2.75 |  | 61.04 |  | 26.91 |  | 2.84 |

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

*Natural Gas, Oil and NGL Sales*

---

| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Year Ended December 31, 2025** | **Year Ended December 31, 2025** | **Year Ended December 31, 2025** | **Year Ended December 31, 2025** |
| | **Natural Gas** | **Oil** | **NGL** | **Total** |
| Haynesville | $3477 | $— | $— | $3477 |
| Northeast Appalachia | 2860 |  |  | 2860 |
| Southwest Appalachia | 1096 | 319 | 724 | 2139 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total natural gas, oil and NGL sales | $7433 | $319 | $724 | $8476 |
|  | **Year Ended December 31, 2024** | **Year Ended December 31, 2024** | **Year Ended December 31, 2024** | **Year Ended December 31, 2024** |
|  | **Natural Gas** | **Oil** | **NGL** | **Total** |
| Haynesville | $1205 | $— | $— | $1205 |
| Northeast Appalachia | 1242 |  |  | 1242 |
| Southwest Appalachia | 239 | 69 | 214 | 522 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total natural gas, oil and NGL sales | $2686 | $69 | $214 | $2969 |

---

Natural gas, oil and NGL sales in 2025 increased $5,507 million compared to 2024. Increased volumes across all of our operating areas, which were primarily driven by the Southwestern Merger, resulted in a $3,476 million increase. Higher average natural gas prices also drove a $2,031 million increase in 2025.

*Production Expenses*

---

| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2025** | **2024** | **2024** |
| | | **$/Mcfe** | | **$/Mcfe** |
| Haynesville | $297 | 0.27 | $170 | 0.30 |
| Northeast Appalachia | 163 | 0.17 | 97 | 0.15 |
| Southwest Appalachia | 175 | 0.31 | 49 | 0.32 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total production expenses | $635 | 0.24 | $316 | 0.23 |

---

Production expenses in 2025 increased $319 million compared to 2024. The increases were primarily related to the Southwestern Merger and increased volumes across all of our operating areas.

*Gathering, Processing and Transportation Expenses ("GP&T")*

---

| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2025** | **2024** | **2024** |
| | | **$/Mcfe** | | **$/Mcfe** |
| Haynesville | $800 | 0.73 | $326 | 0.58 |
| Northeast Appalachia | 838 | 0.87 | 507 | 0.77 |
| Southwest Appalachia | 738 | 1.30 | 202 | 1.33 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total GP&T | $2376 | 0.91 | $1035 | 0.75 |

---

Gathering, processing and transportation expenses in 2025 increased $1,341 million compared to 2024. These increases were primarily related to the Southwestern Merger and increased volumes and rates across all of our operating areas.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

*Severance and Ad Valorem Taxes*

---

| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2025** | **2024** | **2024** |
| | | **$/Mcfe** | | **$/Mcfe** |
| Haynesville | $69 | 0.06 | $60 | 0.11 |
| Northeast Appalachia | 32 | 0.03 | 15 | 0.02 |
| Southwest Appalachia | 92 | 0.16 | 22 | 0.14 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total severance and ad valorem taxes | $193 | 0.07 | $97 | 0.07 |

---

Severance and ad valorem taxes in 2025 increased $96 million compared to 2024. The increase was primarily related to a $103 million increase due to the Southwestern Merger, which impacted each of our operating areas. The increase due to the Southwestern Merger was partially offset by a decrease in the Haynesville statutory severance tax rate, which resulted in a per unit decrease.

*Gain (Loss) on Derivatives*

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** |
| Natural gas derivatives - realized gains | $188 | $919 |
| Natural gas derivatives - unrealized gains (losses) | 354 | (951) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Total gains (losses) on natural gas derivatives | $542 | $(32) |
| Oil derivatives - realized gains | $6 | $1 |
| Oil derivatives - unrealized losses | (2) | (3) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Total gains (losses) on oil derivatives | $4 | $(2) |
| NGL derivatives - realized losses | $(5) | $(4) |
| NGL derivatives - unrealized gains (losses) | 9 | (13) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Total gains (losses) on NGL derivatives | $4 | $(17) |
| Contingent consideration - realized gains | $— | $25 |
| Contingent consideration - unrealized losses |  | (12) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Total gains on contingent consideration | $— | $13 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total gains (losses) on derivatives | $550 | $(38) |

---

See <u>[Note 13](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_181)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for a complete discussion of our derivative activity.

*Marketing Revenues and Expenses*

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** |
| Marketing revenues | $3163 | $1290 |
| Marketing expenses | 3160 | 1310 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Marketing margin | $3 | $(20) |

---

Marketing revenues and expenses increased in 2025 compared to 2024 as a result of increased marketing activities primarily driven by our increased production volumes across all of our operating areas as a result of the Southwestern Merger as well as an increase in natural gas prices.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

*Exploration Expenses* 

During 2025, exploration expense of $46 million was primarily the result of $16 million of lease extension payments, $15 million of non-cash impairment charges related to expirations of unproved properties and $14 million of geological and geophysical expense. During 2024, exploration expense of $10 million was primarily the result of $6 million of non-cash impairment charges related to expirations of unproved properties and $3 million of geological and geophysical expense.

*General and Administrative Expenses*

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** |
| Total G&A, net | $181 | $186 |
| G&A, net per Mcfe | $0.07 | $0.14 |

---

Total general and administrative expenses, net during 2025 decreased $5 million compared to 2024 as the increase in employee compensation and benefits as a result of the Southwestern Merger was offset by a corresponding increase in allocations and reimbursements due to increased drilling and production activity. The per unit decrease in total general and administrative, net during 2025 compared to 2024 was due to increased production volumes as a result of the Southwestern Merger.

*Separation and Other Termination Costs*

During 2025 and 2024, we recognized $5 million and $23 million, respectively, of separation and other termination costs related to one-time termination benefits for certain employees.

*Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization*

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** |
| DD&A | $2980 | $1729 |
| DD&A per Mcfe | $1.13 | $1.26 |

---

The absolute increase in depreciation, depletion and amortization for 2025 compared to 2024 is primarily related to the Southwestern Merger. Depreciation, depletion and amortization per Mcfe decreased for 2025 compared to 2024 primarily due to lower depletion rates on wells acquired in the Southwestern Merger.

*Other Operating Expense, Net*

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** |
| Other operating expense, net | $40 | $332 |

---

During 2025 and 2024, we recognized approximately $57 million and $312 million, respectively, of costs related to the Southwestern Merger, which included employee expenses, legal fees, consulting fees and financial advisory fees. In 2025, the costs related to the Southwestern Merger were partially offset by favorable legal settlements. In 2024, approximately $148 million of the Southwestern Merger costs were related to employee expenses.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

*Interest Expense*

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** |
| Interest expense on debt | $295 | $181 |
| Amortization of premium, discount, issuance costs and other | 4 | (7) |
| Capitalized interest | (64) | (51) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total interest expense | $235 | $123 |

---

The increase in total interest expense for 2025 compared to 2024, was primarily due to our assumption of Southwestern's Senior Notes as a result of the Southwestern Merger. Capitalized interest increased during 2025 compared to 2024 primarily as a result of increased capital activity following the completion of the Southwestern Merger. See <u>[Note 4](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_151)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for additional discussion.

*Income Tax Expense (Benefit)*

We recorded income tax expense of $463 million in 2025. Of this amount, $15 million is related to current federal and state income taxes, and the remainder is related to deferred federal and state income taxes. We recorded an income tax benefit of $127 million in 2024. Of this amount, $4 million is related to current federal and state income taxes, and the remainder is related to deferred federal and state income taxes. See <u>[Note 9](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_169)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for a discussion of income tax expense (benefit).

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**Critical Accounting Estimates**

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States require us to make estimates and assumptions. The accounting estimates and assumptions that involve a significant level of estimation uncertainty and have or are reasonably likely to have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations are discussed below. Our management has discussed each critical accounting estimate with the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors.

*Natural Gas and Oil Reserves.* Estimates of natural gas and oil reserves and their values, future production rates, future development costs and commodity pricing differentials are the most significant of our estimates. The accuracy of any reserve estimate is a function of the quality of data available and of engineering and geological interpretation and judgment. In addition, estimates of reserves may be revised based on actual production, results of subsequent exploration and development activities, recent commodity prices, operating costs and other factors. These revisions could materially affect our financial statements. The volatility of commodity prices results in increased uncertainty inherent in these estimates and assumptions. Changes in natural gas, oil or NGL prices could result in actual results differing significantly from our estimates. See *Supplemental Disclosures About Natural Gas, Oil and NGL Producing Activities* included in <u>[Item 8 of Part II](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_121)</u> of this report for further information.

*Accounting for Business Combinations.* We account for business combinations using the acquisition method, which is the only method permitted under FASB ASC Topic 805 – Business Combinations and involves the use of significant judgment. Under the acquisition method of accounting, a business combination is accounted for at a purchase price based on the fair value of the consideration given. The assets and liabilities acquired are measured at their fair values, and the purchase price is allocated to the assets and liabilities based upon these fair values. The excess, if any, of the consideration given to acquire an entity over the net amounts assigned to its assets acquired and liabilities assumed is recognized as goodwill. The excess, if any, of the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed over the cost of an acquired entity is recognized immediately to earnings as a gain from bargain purchase.

The Company's principal assets are its natural gas and oil properties, which are accounted for under the successful efforts accounting method. The Company determines the fair value of acquired natural gas and oil properties based on the discounted future net cash flows expected to be generated from these assets. Discounted cash flow models by operating area are prepared using the estimated future revenues and operating costs for all proved developed properties and undeveloped properties comprising the proved and unproved reserves. Significant inputs associated with the calculation of discounted future net cash flows include estimates of (i) future production volumes based on estimated reserves, (ii) future operating and development costs, (iii) future commodity prices escalated by an inflationary rate after three years, adjusted for differentials, and (iv) a market-based weighted average cost of capital by operating area. The Company utilizes NYMEX strip pricing, adjusted for differentials, to value the reserves. The NYMEX strip pricing inputs used are classified as Level 1 fair value assumptions and all other inputs are classified as Level 3 fair value assumptions. The discount rates utilized are derived using a weighted average cost of capital computation, which includes an estimated cost of debt and equity for market participants with similar geographies and asset development type by operating area.

See <u>[Note 2](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_145)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for additional information on our business combinations, including the Southwestern Merger, which was completed on October 1, 2024.

*Income Taxes.* Income taxes are accounted for using the asset and liability method as required by GAAP. Deferred tax assets and liabilities arise from temporary differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts in the financial statements. Deferred tax assets for tax attributes such as NOL carryforwards and disallowed business interest carryforwards are also recognized. Deferred tax assets represent potential future tax benefits and are reduced by a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not that such benefits will not be realized.

In assessing the need for a valuation allowance or adjustments to existing valuation allowances, one source of evidence is a projection of income exclusive of existing timing differences. Our judgement regarding the realizability of deferred tax assets is thus partially affected by estimates of future financial condition.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

We also routinely assess potential uncertain tax positions and, if required, establish accruals for such positions. Accounting guidance for recognizing and measuring uncertain tax positions requires that a more likely than not threshold condition be met on a tax position, based solely on its technical merits of being sustained, before any benefit of the uncertain tax position can be recognized in the financial statements. If it is more likely than not a tax position will be sustained, we measure and recognize the position following a cumulative probability estimate.

*Impairments*. Long-lived assets used in operations, including proved gas and oil properties, are assessed for impairment whenever changes in facts and circumstances indicate a possible significant deterioration in future cash flows expected to be generated by an asset group. Individual assets are grouped for impairment purposes based on a judgmental assessment of the lowest level for which there are identifiable cash flows that are largely independent of the cash flows of other groups of assets. If there is an indication the carrying amount of an asset may not be recovered, the asset is assessed by management through an established process in which changes to significant assumptions such as prices, volumes, and future development plans are reviewed. If, upon review, the sum of the undiscounted pre-tax cash flows is less than the carrying value of the asset group, the carrying value is written down to estimated fair value by discounting using a weighted average cost of capital. Because there usually is a lack of quoted market prices for long-lived assets, the fair value of impaired assets is assessed by management using the income approach. Level 3 inputs associated with the calculation of discounted cash flows used in the impairment analysis include our estimate of future natural gas and crude oil prices, production costs, development expenditures, anticipated production of proved reserves and other relevant data. Additionally, we utilize NYMEX strip pricing, adjusted for differentials, to value the reserves.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 7A.** | ***Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk*** |

---

The primary objective of the following information is to provide forward-looking quantitative and qualitative information about our exposure to market risk. The term market risk relates to our risk of loss arising from adverse changes in natural gas, oil and NGL prices and interest rates. These disclosures are not meant to be precise indicators of expected future losses, but rather indicators of reasonably possible losses. The forward-looking information provides indicators of how we view and manage our ongoing market risk exposures.

*Commodity Price Risk*

Our results of operations and cash flows are impacted by changes in market prices for natural gas, oil and NGL, which have historically been volatile. To mitigate a portion of our exposure to adverse price changes, we enter into various derivative instruments. Our natural gas, oil and NGL derivative activities, when combined with our sales of natural gas, oil and NGL, allow us to predict with greater certainty the revenue we will receive. We believe our derivative instruments continue to be highly effective in achieving our risk management objectives.

We determine the fair value of our derivative instruments utilizing established index prices, volatility curves and discount factors. These estimates are compared to counterparty valuations for reasonableness. Derivative transactions are also subject to the risk that counterparties will be unable to meet their obligations. This non-performance risk is considered in the valuation of our derivative instruments, but to date has not had a material impact on the values of our derivatives. Future risk related to counterparties not being able to meet their obligations has been partially mitigated under our commodity hedging arrangements that require counterparties to post collateral if their obligations to us are in excess of defined thresholds. The values we report in our financial statements are as of a point in time and subsequently change as these estimates are revised to reflect actual results, changes in market conditions and other factors. See <u>[Note 13](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_181)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for further discussion of the fair value measurements associated with our derivatives.

For the year ended December 31, 2025, natural gas, oil and NGL revenues, excluding any effect of our derivative instruments, were $7,433 million, $319 million, and $724 million, respectively. Based on production, natural gas, oil and NGL revenue for the year ended December 31, 2025 would have increased or decreased by approximately $743 million, $32 million, and $72 million, respectively, for each 10% increase or decrease in prices. As of December 31, 2025, the fair value of our natural gas and oil derivatives were net assets of $305 million and $2 million, respectively. A 10% increase in forward gas prices would decrease the valuation of natural gas derivatives by approximately $525 million, while a 10% decrease would increase the valuation by approximately $533 million. A 10% fluctuation in forward oil prices would not have made a meaningful impact on the valuation of our oil derivatives. This fair value change assumes volatility based on prevailing market parameters at December 31, 2025. See <u>[Note 13](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_181)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for further information on our open derivative positions.

*Interest Rate Risk*

Our exposure to interest rate changes relates primarily to borrowings under our 2025 Credit Facility. Interest is payable on borrowings under the 2025 Credit Facility based on floating rates. See <u>[Note 4](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_151)</u> of the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of Part II of this report for additional information. As of December 31, 2025, we did not have any outstanding borrowings under our 2025 Credit Facility.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 8.** | ***Financial Statements and Supplementary Data*** |

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS**<br>**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES** | |
| | **Page** |
| <u>[Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (PCAOB ID](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_124)</u>238<u>[)](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_124)</u>  | <u>[71](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_124)</u> |
| Consolidated Financial Statements: |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Consolidated Balance Sheets](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_127)</u> | <u>[74](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_127)</u> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Consolidated Statements of Operations](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_130)</u>  | <u>[75](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_130)</u> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_133)</u> | <u>[76](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_133)</u> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_136)</u>  | <u>[77](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_136)</u> |
| Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements: |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Note 1. Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_142)</u> | <u>[78](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_142)</u> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Note 2. Natural Gas and Oil Property Transactions](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_145)</u> | <u>[84](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_145)</u> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Note 3. Earnings Per Share](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_148)</u>  | <u>[87](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_148)</u> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Note 4. Debt](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_151)</u> | <u>[88](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_151)</u> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Note 5. Contingencies and Commitments](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_154)</u> | <u>[92](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_154)</u> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Note 6. Other Liabilities](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_160)</u> | <u>[94](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_160)</u> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Note 7. Leases](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_163)</u> | <u>[94](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_163)</u> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Note 8. Revenue](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_166)</u> | <u>[96](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_166)</u> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Note 9. Income Taxes](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_169)</u> | <u>[98](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_169)</u> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Note 10. Equity](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_172)</u> | <u>[102](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_172)</u> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Note 11. Share-Based Compensation](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_175)</u> | <u>[104](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_175)</u> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Note 12. Employee Benefit Plans](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_178)</u> | <u>[106](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_178)</u> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Note 13. Derivative and Hedging Activities](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_181)</u> | <u>[106](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_181)</u> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Note 14. Other Property and Equipment](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_187)</u> | <u>[109](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_187)</u> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Note 15. Investments](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_190)</u> | <u>[109](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_190)</u> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Note 16. Asset Retirement Obligations](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_196)</u> | <u>[110](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_196)</u> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Note 17. Supplemental Cash Flow Information](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_199)</u> | <u>[111](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_199)</u> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Note 18. Segment Information](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_205)</u> | <u>[112](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_205)</u> |
| Supplementary Information: |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>[Supplemental Disclosures About Natural Gas, Oil and NGL Producing Activities (unaudited)](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_211)</u> | <u>[113](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_211)</u> |

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm**

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of Expand Energy Corporation

***Opinions on the Financial Statements and Internal Control over Financial Reporting***

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Expand Energy Corporation and its subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, and the related consolidated statements of operations, of stockholders' equity and of cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2025, including the related notes (collectively referred to as the "consolidated financial statements"). We also have audited the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2025, based on criteria established in *Internal Control - Integrated Framework* (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2025 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2025, based on criteria established in *Internal Control - Integrated Framework* (2013) issued by the COSO.

***Basis for Opinions***

The Company's management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in Management's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting appearing under Item 9A. Our responsibility is to express opinions on the Company's consolidated financial statements and on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud, and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.

Our audits of the consolidated financial statements included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

***Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting***

A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

***Critical Audit Matters***

The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current period audit of the consolidated financial statements that was communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (i) relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements and (ii) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the accounts or disclosures to which it relates.

*The Impact of Proved Developed Natural Gas and Oil Reserves on Proved Natural Gas and Oil Properties, Net*

As described in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company's property and equipment, net balance was $24.4 billion as of December 31, 2025, and the related depreciation, depletion and amortization expense for the year ended December 31, 2025 was $3.0 billion, both of which substantially related to proved natural gas and oil properties. The Company follows the successful efforts method to account for its natural gas and oil properties. Under this method, all capitalized well costs and leasehold costs of proved natural gas and oil properties are depreciated using the unit-of-production depreciation method based on total estimated proved developed natural gas and oil reserves. As disclosed by management, estimates of natural gas and oil reserves and their values, future production rates, future development costs and commodity pricing differentials are the most significant of management's estimates. The accuracy of any reserve estimate is a function of the quality of data available and of engineering and geological interpretation and judgment. In addition, estimates of reserves may be revised based on actual production, results of subsequent exploration and development activities, recent commodity prices, operating costs and other factors. The estimates of proved natural gas and oil reserves have been developed by specialists, specifically the Company's reservoir engineers, and assessed by independent petroleum engineers (together "management's specialists").

The principal considerations for our determination that performing procedures relating to the impact of proved developed natural gas and oil reserves on proved natural gas and oil properties, net is a critical audit matter are (i) the significant judgment by management, including the use of management's specialists, when developing the estimates of proved developed natural gas and oil reserves, which are derived using historical production volumes and (ii) a high degree of auditor judgment, subjectivity, and effort in performing procedures and evaluating audit evidence related to the data, specifically historical production volumes, methods, and assumptions used by management and its specialists in developing the estimates of proved developed natural gas and oil reserves.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

Addressing the matter involved performing procedures and evaluating audit evidence in connection with forming our overall opinion on the consolidated financial statements. These procedures included testing the effectiveness of controls relating to management's estimates of proved developed natural gas and oil reserves. The work of management's specialists was used in performing the procedures to evaluate the reasonableness of the estimates of proved developed natural gas and oil reserves. As a basis for using this work, the specialists' qualifications were understood and the Company's relationship with the specialists was assessed. The procedures performed also included (i) evaluating the methods and assumptions used by the specialists; (ii) testing the completeness and accuracy of the underlying data used by the specialists related to historical production volumes; and (iii) evaluating the specialists' findings related to future production volumes by comparing the future production volumes to relevant historical and current period production volumes, as applicable.

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

February 18, 2026

We have served as the Company's auditor since 1992.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS**

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| *($ in millions, except per share data)* | **December 31, 2025** | **December 31, 2024** |
| **Assets** |  |  |
| Current assets: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash and cash equivalents | $616 | $317 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Restricted cash | 80 | 78 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Accounts receivable, net | 1599 | 1226 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Derivative assets | 264 | 84 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other current assets | 357 | 292 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total current assets | 2916 | 1997 |
| Property and equipment: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Natural gas and oil properties, successful efforts method |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proved natural gas and oil properties | 26606 | 23093 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Unproved properties | 5478 | 5897 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other property and equipment | 509 | 654 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total property and equipment | 32593 | 29644 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Less: accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization | (8278) | (5362) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Property and equipment held for sale, net | 40 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total property and equipment, net | 24355 | 24282 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Long-term derivative assets | 47 | 1 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deferred income tax assets | 168 | 589 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other long-term assets | 801 | 1025 |
| **Total assets** | $28287 | $27894 |
| **Liabilities and stockholders' equity** |  |  |
| Current liabilities: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Accounts payable | $753 | $777 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Current maturities of long-term debt, net |  | 389 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Accrued interest | 100 | 100 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Derivative liabilities | 3 | 71 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other current liabilities | 2045 | 1786 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total current liabilities | 2901 | 3123 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Long-term debt, net | 5009 | 5291 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Long-term derivative liabilities | 1 | 68 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Asset retirement obligations, net of current portion | 688 | 499 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Long-term contract liabilities | 975 | 1227 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other long-term liabilities | 135 | 121 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total liabilities | 9709 | 10329 |
| Contingencies and commitments (<u>[Note 5](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_154)</u>) |  |  |
| Stockholders' equity: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Common stock, $0.01 par value, 450,000,000 shares authorized: 239,249,874 and 231,769,886 shares issued | 2 | 2 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Additional paid-in capital | 13746 | 13687 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Retained earnings | 4830 | 3876 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total stockholders' equity | 18578 | 17565 |
| **Total liabilities and stockholders' equity** | $28287 | $27894 |

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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS**

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** |
| *($ in millions, except per share data)* | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| **Revenues and other:** |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Natural gas, oil and NGL | $8476 | $2969 | $3547 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Marketing | 3163 | 1290 | 2500 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gain (loss) on derivatives | 550 | (38) | 1728 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gains (losses) on sales of assets | (65) | 14 | 946 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total revenues and other | 12124 | 4235 | 8721 |
| **Operating expenses:** |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Production | 635 | 316 | 356 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gathering, processing and transportation | 2376 | 1035 | 853 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Severance and ad valorem taxes | 193 | 97 | 167 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Exploration | 46 | 10 | 27 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Marketing | 3160 | 1310 | 2499 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;General and administrative | 181 | 186 | 127 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Separation and other termination costs | 5 | 23 | 5 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Depreciation, depletion and amortization | 2980 | 1729 | 1527 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Impairments | 37 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other operating expense, net | 40 | 332 | 18 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total operating expenses | 9653 | 5038 | 5579 |
| **Income (loss) from operations** | 2471 | (803) | 3142 |
| **Other income (expense):** |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interest expense | (235) | (123) | (104) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gains (losses) on purchases, exchanges or extinguishments of debt | 4 | (1) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other income, net | 42 | 86 | 79 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total other income (expense) | (189) | (38) | (25) |
| **Income (loss) before income taxes** | 2282 | (841) | 3117 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Income tax expense (benefit) | 463 | (127) | 698 |
| **Net income (loss)** | $1819 | $(714) | $2419 |
| **Earnings (loss) per common share:** |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Basic | $7.67 | $(4.55) | $18.21 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Diluted | $7.57 | $(4.55) | $16.92 |
| **Weighted average common shares outstanding (in thousands):** |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Basic | 237290 | 156989 | 132840 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Diluted | 240370 | 156989 | 142976 |

---

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS**

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** |
| *($ in millions)* | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| **Cash flows from operating activities:** |  |  |  |
| Net income (loss) | $1819 | $(714) | $2419 |
| Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Depreciation, depletion and amortization | 2980 | 1729 | 1527 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deferred income tax expense (benefit) | 448 | (123) | 428 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Derivative (gains) losses, net | (550) | 38 | (1728) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash receipts on derivative settlements, net | 189 | 947 | 354 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Share-based compensation | 46 | 38 | 33 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(Gains) losses on sales of assets | 65 | (14) | (946) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Contract amortization | (203) | (57) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(Gains) losses on purchases, exchanges or extinguishments of debt | (4) | 1 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other | 70 | 35 | 18 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Changes in assets and liabilities | (285) | (315) | 275 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net cash provided by operating activities | 4575 | 1565 | 2380 |
| **Cash flows from investing activities:** |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Capital expenditures | (2736) | (1557) | (1829) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Property acquisitions | (195) |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Receipts of deferred consideration | 116 | 166 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Business combination, net |  | (459) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Contributions to investments | (14) | (75) | (231) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds from divestitures of property and equipment | 70 | 21 | 2533 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities | (2759) | (1904) | 473 |
| **Cash flows from financing activities:** |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds from Prior Credit Facility | 825 | 20 | 1125 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Payments on Prior Credit Facility | (825) | (20) | (2175) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds from 2025 Credit Facility | 165 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Payments on 2025 Credit Facility | (165) |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds from issuance of senior notes, net |  | 747 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds from warrant exercise | 24 | 3 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Debt issuance and other financing costs | (11) | (11) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash paid to repurchase and retire common stock | (100) |  | (355) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash paid to purchase debt | (663) | (767) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash paid for common stock dividends | (765) | (388) | (487) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other |  | (3) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net cash used in financing activities | (1515) | (419) | (1892) |
| Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash | 301 | (758) | 961 |
| Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period | 395 | 1153 | 192 |
| Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period | $696 | $395 | $1153 |
| Cash and cash equivalents | $616 | $317 | $1079 |
| Restricted cash | 80 | 78 | 74 |
| Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash | $696 | $395 | $1153 |

---

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY**

---

| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Common Stock** | **Common Stock** | **Additional Paid-in Capital** | **Retained Earnings** | **Total Stockholders' Equity** |
| *($ in millions)* | **Shares** | **Amount** | **Additional Paid-in Capital** | **Retained Earnings** | **Total Stockholders' Equity** |
| **Balance as of December 31, 2022** | 134715094 | $1 | $5724 | $3399 | $9124 |
| Share-based compensation | 214684 |  | 31 |  | 31 |
| Issuance of common stock for warrant exercise | 221952 |  |  |  |  |
| Issuance of reserve common stock and warrants | 12089 |  |  |  |  |
| Repurchase and retirement of common stock | (4373883) |  | (1) | (357) | (358) |
| Net income |  |  |  | 2419 | 2419 |
| Dividends on common stock |  |  |  | (487) | (487) |
| **Balance as of December 31, 2023** | 130789936 | $1 | $5754 | $4974 | $10729 |
| Issuance of common stock for Southwestern Merger | 95700325 | 1 | 7888 |  | 7889 |
| Share-based compensation | 727799 |  | 42 |  | 42 |
| Issuance of common stock for warrant exercise | 4083103 |  | 3 |  | 3 |
| Issuance of reserved common stock and warrants | 468723 |  |  |  |  |
| Net loss |  |  |  | (714) | (714) |
| Dividends on common stock |  |  |  | (384) | (384) |
| **Balance as of December 31, 2024** | 231769886 | $2 | $13687 | $3876 | $17565 |
| Share-based compensation | 538885 |  | 35 |  | 35 |
| Issuance of common stock for warrant exercise | 7497509 |  | 24 |  | 24 |
| Issuance of reserved common stock and warrants | 295255 |  |  |  |  |
| Repurchase and retirement of common stock | (851661) |  |  | (100) | (100) |
| Net income |  |  |  | 1819 | 1819 |
| Dividends on common stock |  |  |  | (765) | (765) |
| **Balance as of December 31, 2025** | 239249874 | $2 | $13746 | $4830 | $18578 |

---

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS**

**1.** **Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies**

*Description of Company*

On October 1, 2024, Chesapeake Energy Corporation ("Chesapeake") changed its name to Expand Energy Corporation ("Expand Energy," "we," "our," "us" or the "Company") in connection with the Southwestern Merger, further discussed in <u>[Note 2](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_145)</u>. Following the Southwestern Merger, Expand Energy is the largest natural gas producer in the U.S., based on net daily production, and is focused on responsibly developing an abundant supply of natural gas, oil and NGL to expand energy access for all. We have operations in Louisiana, Texas, Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Ohio, with all of our operations located onshore in the United States.

*Basis of Presentation*

The accompanying consolidated financial statements of Expand Energy were prepared in accordance with GAAP and include the accounts of our direct and indirect wholly owned subsidiaries and entities in which Expand Energy has a controlling financial interest. Intercompany accounts and balances have been eliminated. All monetary values, other than per unit and per share amounts, are stated in millions of U.S. dollars unless otherwise specified.

This Annual Report on Form 10-K (this "Form 10-K") relates to our financial position as of December 31, 2025 and as of December 31, 2024, and our results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2025, the year ended December 31, 2024 and the year ended December 31, 2023. For the time periods covered by this Form 10-K, we did not have any changes or items impacting other comprehensive income.

*Accounting Estimates*

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the related disclosures in the financial statements. Management evaluates its estimates and related assumptions regularly, including those related to the impairment of natural gas and oil properties, natural gas and oil reserves, derivatives, income taxes, impairment of other property and equipment, environmental remediation costs, asset retirement obligations, litigation and regulatory proceedings and fair values. Changes in facts and circumstances or additional information may result in revised estimates, and actual results may differ significantly from these estimates.

*Consolidation*

We consolidate entities in which we have a controlling financial interest and variable interest entities in which we are the primary beneficiary. We consolidate subsidiaries in which we hold, directly or indirectly, more than 50% of the voting rights. We use the equity method of accounting to record our net interests where we have the ability to exercise significant influence through our investment but lack a controlling financial interest. Under the equity method, our share of net income (loss) is included in our consolidated statements of operations according to our equity ownership or according to the terms of the applicable governing instrument. See <u>[Note 15](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_190)</u> for further discussion of our investments. Undivided interests in natural gas and oil properties are consolidated on a proportionate basis.

*Segments*

Operating segments are defined as components of an enterprise that engage in activities from which it may earn revenues and incur expenses for which separate operational financial information is available and is regularly evaluated by the chief operating decision maker ("CODM"), who is our Chief Executive Officer, for the purpose of allocating an enterprise's resources and assessing its operating performance. We have concluded that we have one reportable segment, due to the similar nature of the exploration and production business across Expand Energy and its consolidated subsidiaries and the fact that our marketing activities are ancillary to our operations. See <u>[Note 18](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_205)</u> for additional information.

*Cash and Cash Equivalents*

For purposes of the consolidated financial statements, we consider investments in all highly liquid instruments with original maturities of three months or less at the date of purchase to be cash equivalents.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

*Restricted Cash*

As of December 31, 2025, we had restricted cash of $80 million. Our restricted cash represents funds restricted for payment of certain royalties pending the outcome of competing ownership claims for certain minerals, as well as for payment of certain convenience class unsecured claims.

*Accounts Receivable*

Our accounts receivable are primarily from purchasers of natural gas, oil and NGL and from exploration and production companies that own interests in properties we operate. This industry concentration could affect our overall exposure to credit risk, either positively or negatively, because our purchasers and joint working interest owners may be similarly affected by changes in economic, industry or other conditions. We monitor the creditworthiness of all our counterparties and we generally require letters of credit or parent guarantees for receivables from parties deemed to have sub-standard credit, unless the credit risk can otherwise be mitigated. We utilize an allowance method in accounting for bad debt based on historical trends in addition to specifically identifying receivables that we believe may be uncollectible. See <u>[Note 8](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_166)</u> for additional information regarding our accounts receivable.

*Natural Gas and Oil Properties*

We follow the successful efforts method of accounting for our natural gas and oil properties. Under this method, exploration costs such as exploratory geological and geophysical costs, expiration of unproved leasehold, delay rentals and exploration overhead are expensed as incurred. All costs related to production, general corporate overhead and similar activities are also expensed as incurred. All property acquisition costs and development costs are capitalized when incurred.

Exploratory drilling costs are initially capitalized, or suspended, pending the determination of proved reserves. If proved reserves are found, drilling costs remain capitalized and are classified as proved properties. Costs of unsuccessful wells are charged to exploration expense. For exploratory wells that find reserves that cannot be classified as proved when drilling is completed, costs continue to be capitalized as suspended exploratory drilling costs if there have been sufficient reserves found to justify completion as a producing well and sufficient progress is being made in assessing the reserves and the economic and operational viability of the project. If we determine that future appraisal drilling or development activities are unlikely to occur, associated suspended exploratory well costs are expensed. In some instances, this determination may take longer than one year. We review the status of all suspended exploratory drilling costs quarterly. Costs to develop proved reserves, including the costs of all development wells and related equipment used in the production of natural gas and oil are capitalized.

Costs of drilling and equipping successful wells, costs to construct or acquire facilities, and associated asset retirement costs are depreciated using the unit-of-production ("UOP") method based on total estimated proved developed gas and oil reserves. Costs of acquiring proved properties, including leasehold acquisition costs transferred from unproved properties, are depleted using the UOP method based on total estimated proved developed and undeveloped reserves.

Proceeds from the sales of individual natural gas and oil properties and the capitalized costs of individual properties sold or abandoned are credited and charged, respectively, to accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization, if doing so does not materially impact the depletion rate of an amortization base. Generally, no gain or loss is recognized until an entire amortization base is sold. However, a gain or loss is recognized from the sale of less than an entire amortization base if the disposition is significant enough to materially impact the depletion rate of the remaining properties in the amortization base.

When circumstances indicate that the carrying value of proved natural gas and oil properties may not be recoverable, we compare unamortized capitalized costs to the expected undiscounted pre-tax future cash flows for the associated assets grouped at the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are independent of cash flows of other assets. If the expected undiscounted pre-tax future cash flows, based on our estimate of future natural gas and crude oil prices, operating costs, anticipated production from proved reserves and other relevant data, are lower than the unamortized capitalized costs, the capitalized costs are reduced to fair value. Fair value is generally estimated using the income approach described in the ASC 820, *Fair Value Measurements*. If applicable, we utilize prices and other relevant information generated by market transactions involving assets and liabilities that are identical or comparable to the item being measured as the basis for determining fair value. The expected future cash flows used for impairment reviews and related fair value measurements are typically based on judgmental

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

assessments of commodity prices, pricing adjustments for differentials, operating costs, capital investment plans, future production volumes, and estimated proved reserves, considering all available information at the date of review. These assumptions are applied to develop future cash flow projections that are then discounted to estimated fair value, using a market-based weighted average cost of capital. We have classified these fair value measurements as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. Additionally, we evaluate the carrying value of our unproved properties and record impairment based on time or geologic factors. Factors such as drilling results, reservoir performance, seismic interpretation, lease expiration dates or future plans to develop acreage is utilized in our evaluation of unproved properties. When unproved properties are deemed to be impaired, this amount is reported in exploration expenses in our consolidated statements of operations.

*Other Property and Equipment*

Other property and equipment consists primarily of buildings and improvements, computers and office equipment, gathering and water systems, land and other assets that support our operations. Major renewals and betterments are capitalized while the costs of repairs and maintenance are charged to expense as incurred. Other property and equipment costs, excluding land, are depreciated on a straight-line basis and recorded within depreciation, depletion and amortization in the consolidated statement of operations.

Realization of the carrying value of other property and equipment is reviewed for possible impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. Assets are determined to be impaired if a forecast of undiscounted estimated future net operating cash flows directly related to the asset, including any disposal value, is less than the carrying amount of the asset. If any asset is determined to be impaired, the loss is measured as the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value. An estimate of fair value is based on the best information available, including prices for similar assets and discounted cash flow. See <u>[Note 14](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_187)</u> for further discussion of other property and equipment.

*Assets Held for Sale* 

We may market certain non-core natural gas and oil assets or other properties for sale. At the end of each reporting period, we evaluate if these assets should be classified as held for sale. The held for sale criteria includes the following: management commits to a plan to sell, the asset is available for immediate sale, an active program to locate a buyer exists, the sale of the asset is probable and expected to be completed within a year, the asset is actively being marketed for sale and that it is unlikely that significant changes to the plan will be made. If each of the criteria are met, then the assets and associated liabilities are classified as held for sale. Additionally, once assets are classified as held for sale, we cease depreciation on those related assets. See <u>[Note 14](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_187)</u> for further discussion of other property and equipment.

*Capitalized Interest*

Interest from external borrowings is capitalized on significant investments in major development projects until the asset is ready for service using the weighted average borrowing rate of outstanding borrowings. Capitalized interest is determined by multiplying our weighted average borrowing cost on debt by the average amount of qualifying costs incurred. Capitalized interest is depreciated over the useful lives of the assets in the same manner as the depreciation of the underlying asset.

*Accounts Payable*

Included in accounts payable as of December 31, 2025 are liabilities of approximately $58 million, representing the amount by which checks issued, but not yet presented to our banks for collection, exceeded balances in applicable bank accounts.

*Debt Issuance Costs*

Costs associated with the arrangement of our credit facility are included in other long-term assets and are amortized over the life of the facility using the straight-line method. As of December 31, 2025, these costs were $22 million. Costs associated with the issuance of the senior notes are included in long-term debt and the remaining unamortized issuance costs are amortized over the life of the senior notes using the straight-line method. Unamortized issuance costs associated with our senior notes as of December 31, 2025 totaled $8 million.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

*Litigation Contingencies*

We are subject to litigation and regulatory proceedings, claims and liabilities that arise in the ordinary course of business. We accrue losses associated with litigation and regulatory claims when such losses are probable and reasonably estimable. If we determine that a loss is probable and cannot estimate a specific amount for that loss but can estimate a range of loss, our best estimate within the range is accrued. Estimates are adjusted as additional information becomes available or circumstances change. We do not reduce these liabilities for potential insurance or third-party recoveries. If applicable, we accrue receivables for probable insurance or third-party recoveries. Legal defense costs associated with loss contingencies are expensed in the period incurred. See <u>[Note 5](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_154)</u> for further discussion of litigation contingencies.

*Environmental Remediation Costs*

We record environmental reserves for estimated remediation costs related to existing conditions from past operations when the responsibility to remediate is probable and the costs can be reasonably estimated. Expenditures that create future benefits or contribute to future revenue generation are capitalized. See <u>[Note 5](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_154)</u> for discussion of environmental contingencies.

*Asset Retirement Obligations*

We recognize liabilities for obligations associated with the retirement of tangible long-lived assets that result from the acquisition, construction and development of the assets. We recognize the fair value of a liability for a retirement obligation in the period in which the liability is incurred. For natural gas and oil properties, this is the period in which a natural gas or oil well is acquired or drilled. The liability is then accreted each period until the liability is settled or the well is sold, at which time the liability is removed. The related asset retirement cost is capitalized as part of the carrying amount of our natural gas and oil properties. See <u>[Note 16](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_196)</u> for further discussion of asset retirement obligations.

*Revenue Recognition*

Revenue from the sale of natural gas, oil and NGL is recognized upon the transfer of control of the products, which is typically when the products are delivered to customers. Revenue is recognized net of royalties due to third parties in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to receive in exchange for those products. We follow the sales method of accounting for our natural gas revenue whereby we recognize sales revenue on all natural gas sold to our purchasers, regardless of whether the sales are proportionate to our ownership in the property.

Revenue from contracts with customers includes the sale of our natural gas, oil and NGL production (recorded as natural gas, oil and NGL revenues in the consolidated statements of operations) as well as the sale of certain of our joint interest holders' production which we purchase under joint operating arrangements (recorded in marketing revenues in the consolidated statements of operations). In connection with the marketing of these products, we obtain control of the natural gas, oil and NGL we purchase from other interest owners at defined delivery points and deliver the product to third parties, at which time revenues are recorded. See <u>[Note 8](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_166)</u> for a presentation of the disaggregation of revenue.

Payment terms and conditions vary by contract type, although terms generally include a requirement of payment within 30 to 60 days. There are no significant judgments that significantly affect the amount or timing of revenue from contracts with customers.

Generally our commodity sales contracts are less than 12 months in duration, however in certain cases we have long-term commodity sales contracts based on market prices at the time of delivery. With these long-term contracts, the transaction price is variable and determined as physical delivery occurs. As such, we have applied the practical expedient allowed in ASC 606 and do not disclose the aggregate amount of the transaction price allocated to performance obligations or when we expect to recognize revenues that are unsatisfied as of the end of the reporting period.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

We also generate revenue from other sources, including from a variety of derivative and hedging activities to reduce our exposure to fluctuations in future commodity prices and to protect our expected operating cash flow against significant market movements or volatility, as well as a variety of natural gas, oil and NGL purchase and sale contracts with third parties for various commercial purposes, including credit risk mitigation and satisfaction of our pipeline delivery commitments (recorded within marketing revenues in the consolidated statements of operations). In circumstances where we act as an agent rather than a principal, our results of operations related to natural gas, oil and NGL marketing activities are presented on a net basis.

*Fair Value Measurements*

Certain financial instruments are reported on a recurring basis at fair value on our consolidated balance sheets. We also use fair value measurements on a nonrecurring basis when a qualitative assessment of our assets indicates a potential impairment. Under fair value measurement accounting guidance, fair value is defined as the amount that would be received from the sale of an asset or paid for the transfer of a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants (i.e., an exit price). To estimate an exit price, a three-level hierarchy is used. The fair value hierarchy prioritizes the inputs, which refer broadly to assumptions market participants would use in pricing an asset or a liability, into three levels. Level 1 inputs are unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities and have the highest priority. Level 2 inputs are inputs other than quoted prices within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability and have the lowest priority.

The valuation techniques that may be used to measure fair value include a market approach, an income approach and a cost approach. A market approach uses prices and other relevant information generated by market transactions involving identical or comparable assets or liabilities. An income approach uses valuation techniques to convert future amounts to a single present amount based on current market expectations, including present value techniques, option-pricing models and the excess earnings method. The cost approach is based on the amount that currently would be required to replace the service capacity of an asset (replacement cost).

The carrying values of financial instruments comprising cash and cash equivalents, accounts payable and accounts receivable approximate fair values due to the short-term maturities of these instruments. See Notes <u>[4](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_151)</u> and <u>[13](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_181)</u> for further discussion of fair value measurements.

*Derivatives*

Derivative instruments are recorded at fair value, and changes in fair value are recognized currently in earnings unless specific hedge accounting criteria are followed. As of December 31, 2025, none of our open derivative instruments were designated as cash flow hedges.

Derivative instruments reflected as current in the consolidated balance sheets represent the estimated fair value of derivatives scheduled to settle over the next 12 months based on market prices/rates as of the respective balance sheet dates. Cash settlements of our derivative instruments are generally classified as operating cash flows unless the derivatives are deemed to contain, for accounting purposes, a significant financing element at contract inception, in which case these cash settlements are classified as financing cash flows in the accompanying consolidated statements of cash flows. All of our commodity derivative instruments are subject to master netting arrangements by contract type which provide for the offsetting of asset and liability positions within each contract type, as well as related cash collateral if applicable, by counterparty. Therefore, we net the value of our derivative instruments by contract type with the same counterparty in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

We have established the fair value of our derivative instruments using established index prices, volatility curves and discount factors. These estimates are compared to our counterparty values for reasonableness. The values we report in our financial statements are as of a point in time and subsequently change as these estimates are revised to reflect actual results, changes in market conditions and other factors. Derivative transactions are subject to the risk that counterparties will be unable to meet their obligations. This non-performance risk is considered in the valuation of our derivative instruments, but to date has not had a material impact on the values of our derivatives. See <u>[Note 13](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_181)</u> for further discussion of our derivative instruments.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

*Income Taxes*

We are subject to current income taxes assessed by the federal and various state jurisdictions in the U.S. and account for current income taxes based on amounts paid or estimated to be payable net of amounts refunded or estimated to be refunded. Additionally, we account for deferred income taxes using the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recorded for the estimated future tax consequences attributable to the differences between the financial carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using the tax rate expected to be in effect for the year in which those temporary differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in the year of the enacted rate change. Deferred income taxes are provided to recognize the income tax effect of reporting certain transactions in different years for income tax and financial reporting purposes. A valuation allowance for deferred tax assets, including net operating losses, is recognized when it is more likely than not that some or all of the benefit from the deferred tax assets will not be realized.

We are required to make judgments, including estimating reserves for potential adverse outcomes regarding tax positions that we have taken. We account for uncertainty in income taxes using a recognition and measurement threshold for tax positions taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. The tax benefit from an uncertain tax position is recognized when it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination by taxing authorities based on technical merits of the position. The amount of the tax benefit recognized is the largest amount of the benefit that has a greater than 50 percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. The effective tax rate and the tax basis of assets and liabilities reflect management's estimates of the ultimate outcome of various tax uncertainties. We recognize accrued interest related to uncertain tax positions in interest expense and accrued penalties related to such positions in general and administrative expense in the consolidated statements of operations. See <u>[Note 9](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_169)</u> for further discussion of income taxes.

*Share-Based Compensation*

Our share-based compensation program consists of restricted stock units and performance share units granted to employees and restricted stock units granted to non-employee directors under our Long Term Incentive Plan. We recognize the cost of services received in exchange for restricted stock units based on the fair value of the equity instruments as of the grant date. This value is amortized over the vesting period, which is generally three years from the grant date. Forfeitures on our share-based compensation awards are recognized as they occur. Because performance share units are settled in shares, they are classified as equity and are measured at fair value as of the grant date.

To the extent compensation expense relates to employees directly involved in the acquisition of natural gas and oil leasehold and development activities, these amounts are capitalized to natural gas and oil properties. Amounts not capitalized to natural gas and oil properties are generally recognized as general and administrative expense, production expense, marketing expense, or exploration expense, based on the employees involved in those activities. See <u>[Note 11](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_175)</u> for further discussion of share-based compensation.

*Recently Issued Accounting Standards*

In December 2025, the FASB issued ASU 2025-11, *Interim Reporting (Topic 270): Narrow-Scope Improvements*. ASU 2025-11 clarifies interim disclosure requirements and the applicability of Topic 270. Additionally, ASU 2025-11 includes a disclosure principle that requires entities to disclose events since the end of the last annual reporting period that have a material impact on the entity. This ASU is effective for interim reporting periods within annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2027, with early adoption permitted. We are evaluating the impact this ASU will have on our disclosures.

In November 2024, the FASB issued ASU 2024-03, *Income Statement – Reporting Comprehensive Income – Expense Disaggregation Disclosures (Subtopic 220-40): Disaggregation of Income Statement Expenses*. ASU 2024-03 expands disclosures about specific costs and expenses presented on the face of the income statement. This ASU is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2026 and for interim reporting periods within annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2027, with early adoption permitted. We are evaluating the impact this ASU will have on our disclosures.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, *Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures*. ASU 2023-09 intends to provide investors with additional information about an entity's income taxes by requiring disclosure of items such as disaggregation of the effective tax rate reconciliation as well as information regarding income taxes paid. This ASU is effective beginning with this annual report on Form 10-K and we have applied the updates retrospectively to impacted disclosures. See <u>[Note 9](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_169)</u> for further discussion on our income taxes and <u>[Note 17](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_199)</u> for additional information on income taxes paid.

In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, *Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segments Disclosures*. Under ASU 2023-07, the scope and frequency of segment disclosures is increased to provide investors with additional detail about information utilized by an entity's CODM, including information about significant segment expenses. This ASU was effective for annual reporting beginning with our 2024 Form 10-K and for interim periods beginning with our quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the first quarter of 2025. See <u>[Note 18](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_205)</u> for further discussion on our segment reporting.

We consider the applicability and impact of all ASUs. ASUs not listed above were evaluated and determined to either be not applicable, already adopted and disclosed or not material upon adoption.

**2.** **Natural Gas and Oil Property Transactions**

*Southwestern Merger*

On January 10, 2024, Chesapeake and Southwestern entered into an all-stock agreement and plan of merger (the "Merger Agreement"). Southwestern was an independent energy company engaged in development, exploration and production activities, including related marketing activities, within its operating areas in the Appalachia and Haynesville shale plays. Our Board of Directors and the Board of Directors of Southwestern both approved the Merger Agreement. At separate special meetings each held on June 18, 2024, Chesapeake's stockholders approved the issuance of Chesapeake's common stock to the stockholders of Southwestern in connection with the Southwestern Merger, and Southwestern's stockholders approved the Merger Agreement.

On October 1, 2024, the Southwestern Merger was completed, and we issued approximately 95.7 million shares of our common stock to Southwestern's shareholders in connection with the Merger Agreement. Under the terms of the Merger Agreement, subject to certain exceptions, each share of Southwestern common stock was converted into the right to receive 0.0867 of a share of the Company's common stock. Based on the closing price of our common stock, the total value of the shares of our common stock issued to Southwestern's shareholders was approximately $7.9 billion. During 2025, we recognized approximately $57 million of costs related to the Southwestern Merger, which primarily consisted of employee expenses. During 2024, we recognized approximately $312 million of costs related to the Southwestern Merger, which included $148 million related to employee expenses and the remainder of the costs relating to transaction fees, consulting and legal fees and other fees related to the transaction. These acquisition-related costs are included within other operating expense, net within our consolidated statements of operations. The Southwestern Merger was structured as a tax-free reorganization for United States federal income tax purposes.

*Southwestern Merger Purchase Price Allocation*

We have accounted for the Southwestern Merger as a business combination, using the acquisition method, with Expand Energy (formerly Chesapeake) treated as the accounting acquirer. During 2025, we finalized the acquisition accounting for this transaction. The following table represents the allocation of the total purchase price of Southwestern to the identifiable assets acquired and the liabilities assumed based on the fair values as of the acquisition date.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| | **Purchase Price Allocation** |
| **Consideration:** | |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Cash<sup>(a)</sup> | $585 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Fair value of Expand Energy common stock issued<sup>(b)</sup> | 7871 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Restricted stock unit and performance stock unit replacement awards | 17 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total consideration | $8473 |
| **Fair Value of Assets Acquired:** |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash | $126 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Other current assets | 828 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Proved natural gas and oil properties | 10002 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Unproved properties | 4270 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Other property and equipment | 128 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Other long-term assets | 496 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amounts attributable to assets acquired | $15850 |
| **Fair Value of Liabilities Assumed:** |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Current liabilities | $1955 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Long-term debt | 3305 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Deferred tax liabilities | 479 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Long-term contract liabilities | 1287 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Other long-term liabilities | 351 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amounts attributable to liabilities assumed | $7377 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Total identifiable net assets | $8473 |

---

____________________________________________

(a)Reflects the repayment of $585 million outstanding on Southwestern's 2022 revolving credit facility including $2 million of accrued interest and fees, as the facility was repaid and retired upon close of the Southwestern Merger.

(b)The fair value of our common stock is a Level 1 input, as our stock price is a quoted price in an active market as of the acquisition date.

*Natural Gas and Oil Properties*

For the Southwestern Merger, we applied the business combination guidance, under which an acquirer should recognize the identifiable assets acquired and the liabilities assumed on the acquisition date at fair value. The fair value estimate of proved and unproved natural gas and oil properties as of the acquisition date was based on estimated natural gas and oil reserves and related future net cash flows discounted using a weighted average cost of capital, including estimates of future production rates and future development costs. We utilized NYMEX strip pricing adjusted for inflation to value the reserves. We then applied various discount rates depending on the classification of reserves and other risk characteristics. Management utilized the assistance of a third-party valuation expert to estimate the value of the natural gas and oil properties acquired. Additionally, the fair value estimate of proved and unproved natural gas and oil properties was corroborated by utilizing a market approach, which considers recent comparable transactions for similar assets.

The inputs used to value natural gas and oil properties require significant judgment and estimates made by management and represent Level 3 inputs.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

As part of the Southwestern Merger, we assumed gathering, processing and transportation contracts, certain of which were deemed to be above or below current market rates. We recognized assets and liabilities for the difference in the contractual and market rates of these contracts, as of the date of the Merger. The terms of the contracts extend through 2035.

*Southwestern Merger Revenues and Expenses Subsequent to Acquisition*

We included in our consolidated statements of operations natural gas, oil and NGL revenues of $1,021 million, marketing revenues of $482 million, net losses on natural gas, oil and NGL derivatives of $34 million, and direct operating expenses of $1,384 million, including depreciation, depletion and amortization, and net earnings of $36 million, related to the Southwestern Merger businesses for the period from October 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024.

*Combined Pro Forma Financial Information*

As the Southwestern Merger closed on October 1, 2024, all activity in 2025 is included in our consolidated statements of operations. The following unaudited pro forma financial information is based on our historical consolidated financial statements adjusted to reflect as if the Southwestern Merger and the divestiture of our Eagle Ford assets had each occurred on January 1, 2023. The information below reflects pro forma adjustments based on available information and certain assumptions that we believe are reasonable, including the estimated tax impact of the pro forma adjustments.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** |
| | **2024** | **2023** |
| Revenues | $8193 | $14247 |
| Net income (loss) available to common stockholders | $(607) | $3852 |
| Earnings (loss) per common share: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Basic | $(2.65) | $16.86 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Diluted | $(2.65) | $16.14 |

---

*Eagle Ford Divestitures*

During 2023, we divested our Eagle Ford assets through three separate transactions ("the Eagle Ford divestiture transactions"), for approximately $3.5 billion, subject to customary post-closing adjustments. In each of these transactions, we received a portion of the purchase price upon closing, subject to customary post-closing adjustments, with the remainder of the purchase price recorded as deferred consideration and treated as a non-interest-bearing note to be paid in installments in up to the following four years following the close of the transaction. The deferred consideration is recorded at fair value with an imputed rate of interest as a Level 2 input, and approximately $114 million and $114 million of the deferred consideration is reflected within other current assets and approximately $91 million and $188 million of the deferred consideration is reflected within other long-term assets on the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively. Additionally, during 2024, we received a contingent payment of $25 million related to one of the Eagle Ford divestiture transactions, based upon the average NYMEX prices during the year following the close of the transaction. These installment payments are recorded as receipts of deferred consideration in our consolidated statements of cash flows. The contingent payment noted above was recorded as cash receipts on derivative settlements, net in our consolidated statements of cash flows. The Eagle Ford divestiture transactions, resulted in an aggregate gain of approximately $947 million, inclusive of post-closing adjustments, based on the difference between the carrying value of the assets and consideration received.

During the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, we amortized approximately $19 million, $31 million and $24 million, respectively, related to the deferred consideration from the Eagle Ford divestiture transactions described above. The deferred consideration amortization is recorded within other income, net, in our consolidated statements of operations.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

**3.** **Earnings Per Share**

Basic earnings (loss) per common share is computed by dividing the net income (loss) available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings (loss) per common share is calculated in the same manner but includes the impact of potentially dilutive securities utilizing the treasury stock method. Potentially dilutive securities consists of issuable shares related to warrants, unvested restricted stock units ("RSUs"), and unvested performance share units ("PSUs").

The reconciliations between basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share are as follows:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| **Numerator** |  |  |  |
| Net income (loss) available to common stockholders, basic and diluted | $1819 | $(714) | $2419 |
| **Denominator (in thousands)** |  |  |  |
| Weighted average common shares outstanding, basic | 237290 | 156989 | 132840 |
| Effect of potentially dilutive securities |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Warrants | 2670 |  | 9750 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Restricted stock units | 372 |  | 338 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Performance share units | 38 |  | 48 |
| Weighted average common shares outstanding, diluted | 240370 | 156989 | 142976 |
| **Earnings per common share:** |  |  |  |
| Basic | $7.67 | $(4.55) | $18.21 |
| Diluted | $7.57 | $(4.55) | $16.92 |

---

During the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, the diluted earnings (loss) per share calculation excludes the effect of 13,391, 308,646 and 777,369 reserved shares of common stock and 25,015, 582,109 and 1,466,502 reserved Class C Warrants related to the settlement of General Unsecured Claims associated with the Chapter 11 Cases, as all necessary conditions had not been met for such shares to be considered dilutive shares during the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Additionally, the diluted loss per share calculation during the year ended December 31, 2024 excludes the antidilutive effect of 9,058,361 Warrants, 315,318 RSUs and 86,421 PSUs.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

**4.** **Debt**

Our long-term debt consisted of the following as of December 31, 2025 and 2024:

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **December 31, 2025** | **December 31, 2025** | **December 31, 2024** | **December 31, 2024** |
| | **Carrying Amount** | **Fair Value**<sup>(a)</sup> | **Carrying Amount** | **Fair Value**<sup>(a)</sup> |
| 2025 Credit Facility | $— | $— | $— | $— |
| Prior Credit Facility |  |  |  |  |
| 4.95% senior notes due 2025<sup>(b)</sup> |  |  | 389 | 389 |
| 5.50% senior notes due 2026 |  |  | 47 | 47 |
| 5.375% senior notes due 2029<sup>(b)</sup> | 638 | 639 | 700 | 684 |
| 5.875% senior notes due 2029 | 440 | 441 | 500 | 494 |
| 6.75% senior notes due 2029 | 847 | 852 | 950 | 959 |
| 5.375% senior notes due 2030<sup>(b)</sup> | 1200 | 1218 | 1200 | 1174 |
| 4.75% senior notes due 2032<sup>(b)</sup> | 1150 | 1137 | 1150 | 1067 |
| 5.70% senior notes due 2035<sup>(c)</sup> | 750 | 776 | 750 | 734 |
| Premiums (discounts) on senior notes, net | (8) |  | 4 |  |
| Debt issuance costs | (8) |  | (10) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total debt, net | 5009 | 5063 | 5680 | 5548 |
| Less current maturities of long-term debt, net |  |  | (389) | (389) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total long-term debt, net | $5009 | $5063 | $5291 | $5159 |

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____________________________________________

(a)The carrying value of borrowings under our 2025 Credit Facility and Prior Credit Facility approximates fair value as the interest rates are based on prevailing market rates; therefore, they are a Level 1 fair value measurement. For all other debt, a market approach, based upon quotes from major financial institutions, which are Level 2 inputs, is used to measure the fair value.

(b)On October 1, 2024, we assumed the debt of Southwestern in connection with the Southwestern Merger, which primarily consisted of these senior notes. See <u>[Note 2](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_145)</u> for additional discussion on the Southwestern Merger and further discussion of these senior notes below.

(c)On December 2, 2024, we issued $750 million of 5.70% senior notes. See further discussion below.

The table below presents debt maturities as of December 31, 2025, excluding debt issuance costs, discounts and premiums:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| | **Total** |
| 2029 | 1925 |
| 2030 | 1200 |
| Thereafter | 1900 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total debt | $5025 |

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

*Credit Facility.* On September 30, 2025, the Company entered into an Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the "Credit Agreement") that, as amended, has a maturity date of September 30, 2030 (the "2025 Credit Facility"), with the lenders and issuing banks party thereto from time to time (the "Lenders"), and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent. The 2025 Credit Facility, among other things, extended the maturity date from December 2027 to September 2030, with two one-year extension options available, each subject to the Lenders' consent, increased the aggregate commitments under the 2025 Credit Facility from $2.5 billion to $3.5 billion with incremental capacity for additional commitments in an amount up to $1.0 billion, subject to the receipt of commitments thereto and certain customary conditions. The Credit Agreement also increased the sublimit available for the issuance of letters of credit from $500 million to $1.0 billion, and increased the sublimit available for swingline loans from $50 million to $100 million. As of December 31, 2025, we had approximately $3.5 billion available for borrowings under the 2025 Credit Facility.

The Credit Agreement contains restrictive covenants that, subject to exceptions customary to investment-grade credit facilities, limit Expand Energy and its subsidiaries' ability to, among other things: (i) incur priority indebtedness, (ii) enter into mergers; (iii) make or declare dividends; (iv) incur liens; (v) sell all or substantially all of their assets; and (vi) engage in certain transactions with affiliates. The Credit Agreement requires our compliance with an indebtedness to capitalization ratio, which is the ratio of the Company's total indebtedness to the sum of total indebtedness plus stockholders' equity (the "Debt to Capitalization Ratio"), not to exceed 65%, tested at the end of each quarter. As of December 31, 2025, we were in compliance with the Debt to Capitalization Ratio.

Borrowings under the Credit Agreement may be alternate base rate loans or term SOFR loans, at our election. Interest is payable quarterly for alternate base rate loans and at the end of the applicable interest period for term SOFR loans. Term SOFR loans bear interest at term SOFR plus an applicable rate ranging from 112.5 to 200 basis points per annum, depending on the Company's unsecured debt ratings. Alternate base rate loans bear interest at a rate per annum equal to the greatest of: (i) the prime rate; (ii) the federal funds effective rate plus 50 basis points; and (iii) the term SOFR rate for a one-month interest period plus 100 basis points, plus an applicable margin ranging from 12.5 to 100 basis points per annum, depending on the Company's unsecured debt ratings. Expand Energy also pays a commitment fee on unused commitment amounts under the 2025 Credit Facility ranging from 12.5 to 32.5 basis points per annum, depending on the Company's unsecured debt ratings.

The 2025 Credit Facility is subject to customary events of default, remedies, and cure periods for investment-grade credit facilities of this nature.

The Prior Credit Facility was terminated in connection with the entry into the 2025 Credit Facility.

*Assumption of Southwestern's Senior Notes and Southwestern Credit Facility Extinguishment.*

On October 1, 2024, the Southwestern Merger was completed, and we became the successor issuer in respect to Southwestern's (i) $389 million aggregate principal amount of 4.950% Senior Notes due 2025 (the "SWN 2025 Notes"), (ii) $304 million aggregate principal amount of 8.375% Senior Notes due 2028 (the "SWN 2028 Notes"), (iii) $700 million aggregate principal amount of 5.375% Senior Notes due 2029 (the "SWN 2029 Notes"), (iv) $1,200 million aggregate principal amount of 5.375% Senior Notes due 2030 (the "SWN 2030 Notes") and (v) $1,150 million aggregate principal amount of 4.750% Senior Notes due 2032 (the "SWN 2032 Notes" and together with the SWN 2025 Notes, the SWN 2028 Notes, the SWN 2029 Notes and the SWN 2030 Notes, the "SWN Notes"). We assumed the obligations under (i) the SWN 2025 Notes pursuant to Supplemental Indenture No. 9 ("SWN 2025 Notes Supplemental Indenture No. 9") to a base indenture dated January 23, 2015, by and among Southwestern and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, (ii) the SWN 2028 Notes pursuant to Supplemental Indenture No. 9 ("SWN 2028 Notes Supplemental Indenture No. 9") to a base indenture dated September 25, 2017, by and among Southwestern and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, (iii) the SWN 2029 Notes pursuant to Supplemental Indenture No. 6 ("Supplemental Indenture No. 6") to a base indenture dated August 30, 2021 (the "2021 Base Indenture") by and among Southwestern and Regions Bank, as Trustee, (iv) the 2030 Notes pursuant to Supplemental Indenture No. 7 ("Supplemental Indenture No. 7") to the 2021 Base Indenture and (v) the 2032 Notes pursuant to Supplemental Indenture No. 8 ("Supplemental Indenture No. 8" and, together with SWN 2025 Notes Supplemental Indenture No. 9, SWN 2028 Notes Supplemental Indenture No. 9, Supplemental Indenture No. 6 and Supplemental Indenture No. 7, the "SWN Supplemental Indentures") to the 2021 Base Indenture. In addition, pursuant to each SWN Supplemental Indenture, existing subsidiaries of the Company that guarantee our notes provided guarantees of the SWN Notes. As a result of the investment grade ratings we received on October 1 and

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

October 2, 2024, and the satisfaction of certain other conditions, all guarantees previously provided in connection with the Company's outstanding senior notes, including the SWN Notes, were released.

The SWN 2025 Notes matured on January 23, 2025 and bore interest at a rate of 4.950% per annum, with interest that was payable on January 23 and July 23 of each year. The SWN 2029 Notes mature on February 1, 2029 and bear interest at a rate of 5.375% per annum, with interest payable on February 1 and August 1 of each year. The SWN 2030 Notes mature on March 15, 2030 and bear interest at a rate of 5.375% per annum, with interest payable on March 15 and September 15 of each year. The SWN 2032 Notes mature on February 1, 2032 and bear interest at a rate of 4.750% per annum, with interest payable on February 1 and August 1 of each year.

On October 1, 2024, Southwestern's existing credit facility was terminated, with all loan amounts and other obligations outstanding thereunder repaid in full and all commitments thereunder extinguished, for approximately $585 million, which included all outstanding borrowings, accrued interest and transaction fees.

*Issuance of 5.70% Senior Notes*

On December 2, 2024, we completed our underwritten public offering of $750 million aggregate principal amount of our 5.70% Senior Notes due 2035 (the "2035 Notes"). The 2035 Notes were issued pursuant to the Indenture (the "Base Indenture"), dated as of December 2, 2024, between the Company and Regions Bank (the "Trustee"), as trustee, as supplemented by the First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of December 2, 2024 (the "First Supplemental Indenture" and, together with the Base Indenture, the "Indenture"), between the Company and the Trustee, setting forth specific terms applicable to the 2035 Notes.

The 2035 Notes are the Company's senior unsecured obligations and rank equally in right to payment of the holders of the Company's other current and future unsecured senior debt, including debt under the Company's revolving credit facility and the Company's existing senior notes, and senior in right of payment to any future subordinated debt that the Company may incur. The 2035 Notes are not guaranteed by any of the Company's subsidiaries and are therefore structurally subordinated to any indebtedness incurred by any of the Company's subsidiaries.

The 2035 Notes mature on January 15, 2035 and interest on the 2035 Notes is payable semi-annually, on January 15 and July 15 of each year to holders of record on the immediately preceding January 1 and July 1.

*Outstanding Senior Notes.* On October 28, 2024, the Company satisfied the "Investment Grade Date" conditions set forth under the Prior Credit Facility (the "Investment Grade Date Event") and, as a result, entered into supplemental indentures pursuant to which each subsidiary guarantor party thereto was released of all of its obligations under its guarantee of the Company's obligations under the indenture, dated as of February 5, 2021, among the Issuer, the guarantor party thereto and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as trustee, that issued the $500 million aggregate principal amount of 5.50% Senior Notes due 2026 ("the 2026 Notes") and the $500 million aggregate principal amount of 5.875% Senior Notes due 2029 (the "2029 Notes"). Additionally, as a result of receiving such investment grade rating, pursuant to the indenture governing the 2026 Notes and the 2029 Notes, certain restrictive covenants under such indentures are no longer in effect upon the Company.

Interest on the 2026 Notes and 2029 Notes is payable semi-annually, on February 1 and August 1 of each year to holders of record on the immediately preceding January 15 and July 15.

The Company and certain of its subsidiaries previously agreed to guarantee such obligations under the indenture dated April 7, 2021 with Wilmington Trust, National Association, as Trustee (the "Vine Indenture") under which the Company assumed the obligations under Vine's $950 million aggregate principal amount of 6.75% Senior Notes due 2029 (the "Vine Notes"). Additionally, certain subsidiaries of Vine entered into a supplemental indenture to the Company's existing indenture, dated February 5, 2021, with Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas as trustee (the "CHK Indenture"), pursuant to which such subsidiaries of Vine have agreed to guarantee obligations under the CHK Indenture. On October 28, 2024, in connection with the Investment Grade Date Event, the Company entered into a supplemental indenture to the CHK Indenture pursuant to which each subsidiary guarantor party thereto was released of all its obligations under its guarantee of the Company's obligations under the CHK Indenture.

Interest on the Vine Notes is payable semi-annually, on April 15 and October 15 of each year to holders of record on the immediately preceding April 1 and October 1.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

In connection with the completion of the Southwestern Merger, on October 1, 2024, the Company entered into (i) Supplemental Indenture No. 3 to the Indenture dated February 5, 2021, by and among Chesapeake Escrow LLC, as issuer, the guarantors signatory thereto and Deutsche Bank Trust Company, as Trustee governing the 2026 Notes and 2029 Notes and (ii) Supplemental Indenture No. 5 to the Indenture dated April 7, 2021, by and among Vine Energy Holdings LLC, the guarantors signatory thereto and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as Trustee governing the Company's existing 6.75% Senior Notes due 2029 (the "Vine Notes" and together with the 2026 Notes and the 2029 Notes, the "Existing Notes"), in each case to add as guarantors of the Existing Notes, the subsidiaries of Southwestern that guarantee SWN Notes that are described above. As discussed above, on October 28, 2024, each Southwestern subsidiary guarantor was released of all its obligations under its guarantee of the Company's obligations under each of the indentures governing the Existing Notes in connection with the Investment Grade Date Event.

The 2025 Credit Facility, the SWN Notes and the Existing Notes are the Company's senior unsecured obligations. Accordingly, they rank (i) equal in right of payment to all existing and future senior unsecured indebtedness, (ii) effectively subordinate in right of payment to all existing and future secured indebtedness, to the extent of the value of the collateral securing such indebtedness, (iii) structurally subordinate in right of payment to all existing and future indebtedness and other liabilities of any future subsidiaries that do not guarantee the 2025 Credit Facility, the SWN Notes and/or Existing Notes and any entity that is not a subsidiary that does not guarantee the 2025 Credit Facility, the SWN Notes and/or Existing Notes and (iv) senior in right of payment to all future subordinated indebtedness.

The Company had no secured debt as of December 31, 2025.

*Tender Offer and Senior Notes Repayment*

During the fourth quarter of 2024, we announced an offer to purchase for cash, any and all of our outstanding 2026 Notes, the "Tender Offer". Upon expiration of the Tender Offer, approximately 91%, or $453 million, of the 2026 Notes were validly tendered and not validly withdrawn. In a separate transaction during the fourth quarter of 2024, we redeemed all of the $304 million aggregate principal of the SWN 2028 Notes for approximately $312 million, which included an $8 million premium to call the notes. We utilized the proceeds from the 2035 Notes to fund the Tender Offer for the 2026 Notes and the early redemption of the SWN 2028 Notes.

In January 2025, the $389 million aggregate principal of SWN 2025 Notes was repaid and terminated with cash on hand and borrowings on the Prior Credit Facility. The borrowings on the Prior Credit Facility were subsequently repaid during the year ended December 31, 2025. In March 2025, we redeemed the remaining $47 million aggregate principal of the 5.50% Senior Notes due 2026 with cash on hand. During the year ended December 31, 2025, we redeemed approximately $103 million of our 6.750% Senior Notes due 2029, approximately $60 million of our 5.875% Senior Notes due 2029 and approximately $62 million of our 5.375% Senior Notes due 2029 through open market repurchases using cash on hand.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

**5.** **Contingencies and Commitments**

**Contingencies**

*Business Operations and Litigation and Regulatory Proceedings*

We are involved in, and expect to continue to be involved in, various lawsuits and disputes incidental to our business operations, including commercial disputes, personal injury claims, royalty claims, property damage claims and contract actions. We are also party to the consolidated Chapter 11 Cases pending for the Debtors in the Bankruptcy Court.

Our total accrued liability in respect of litigation and regulatory proceedings is determined on a case-by-case basis and represents an estimate of probable losses after considering, among other factors, the progress of each case or proceeding, our experience and the experience of others in similar cases or proceedings, and the opinions and views of legal counsel. Significant judgment is required in making these estimates. While it is not possible at this time to estimate the amount of any additional loss, or range of loss that is reasonably possible, based on the nature of the claims, management believes that current litigation, claims and proceedings, individually or in aggregate and after taking into account insurance, are not likely to have a material adverse impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Many of these matters are in early stages and are all subject to inherent uncertainties. Therefore, management's view may change in the future. If an unfavorable final outcome were to occur, there exists the possibility of our final liabilities being materially different.

The majority of Chesapeake's pre-petition legal proceedings were settled during the Chapter 11 Cases or will be resolved in connection with the claims reconciliation process before the Bankruptcy Court, together with actions seeking to collect pre-petition indebtedness or to exercise control over the property of Chesapeake's bankruptcy estates. Any allowed claim related to such litigation will be treated in accordance with the Plan. The Plan in the Chapter 11 Cases, which became effective on February 9, 2021, provided for the treatment of claims against Chesapeake's bankruptcy estates, including pre-petition liabilities that had not been satisfied or addressed during the Chapter 11 Cases. Many of these proceedings were in early stages as of the Petition Date, and many of them sought damages and penalties, the amount of which is indeterminate. Any legal proceeding pending against Southwestern and assumed by us in connection with the Southwestern Merger is not subject to discharge or resolution as part of the Chapter 11 Cases.

*Environmental Contingencies*

The nature of the natural gas and oil business carries with it certain environmental risks for us and our subsidiaries. We have implemented various policies, programs, procedures, training and audits to reduce and mitigate such environmental risks. We conduct periodic reviews, on a company-wide basis, to assess changes in our environmental risk profile. Environmental reserves are established for environmental liabilities for which economic losses are probable and reasonably estimable. We manage our exposure to environmental liabilities in acquisitions by using an evaluation process that seeks to identify pre-existing contamination or compliance concerns and address the potential liability. Depending on the extent of an identified environmental concern, we may, among other things, exclude a property from the transaction, require the seller to remediate the property to our satisfaction in an acquisition or agree to assume liability for the remediation of the property.

**Commitments**

*Gathering, Processing and Transportation Agreements*

We have contractual commitments with midstream service companies and pipeline carriers for future gathering, processing and transportation of natural gas, oil and NGL to move certain of our production to market. Working interest owners and royalty interest owners, where appropriate, will be responsible for their proportionate share of these costs. Generally, commitments related to gathering, processing and transportation agreements are not recorded as obligations in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. See <u>[Note 2](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_145)</u> for further discussion of commitments recorded on our consolidated balance sheets.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

The aggregate undiscounted commitments under our gathering, processing and transportation agreements, excluding any reimbursement from working interest and royalty interest owners, credits for third-party volumes or future costs under cost-of-service agreements, are presented below:

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| | **December 31, 2025** |
| 2026 | $1428 |
| 2027 | 1337 |
| 2028 | 1221 |
| 2029 | 1019 |
| 2030 | 884 |
| Thereafter | 3683 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | $9572 |

---

In addition, we have long-term agreements for certain natural gas gathering and related services within specified acreage dedication areas in exchange for cost-of-service based fees redetermined annually, or tiered fees based on volumes delivered relative to scheduled volumes. Future gathering fees may vary with the applicable agreement.

*Other Commitments*

As part of our normal course of business, we enter into various agreements providing, or otherwise arranging for, financial or performance assurances to third parties on behalf of our wholly owned guarantor subsidiaries. These agreements may include future payment obligations or commitments regarding operational performance that effectively guarantee our subsidiaries' future performance.

In connection with acquisitions and divestitures, our purchase and sale agreements generally provide indemnification to the counterparty for liabilities incurred as a result of a breach of a representation or warranty by the indemnifying party and/or other specified matters. These indemnifications generally have a discrete term and are intended to protect the parties against risks that are difficult to predict or cannot be quantified at the time of entering into or consummating a particular transaction. For divestitures of natural gas and oil properties, our purchase and sale agreements may require the return of a portion of the proceeds we receive as a result of uncured title or environmental defects.

While executing our strategic priorities, we have incurred certain cash charges, including contract termination charges, financing extinguishment costs and charges for unused natural gas transportation and gathering capacity.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

**6.** **Other Liabilities**

Other current liabilities as of December 31, 2025 and 2024 are detailed below:

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **December 31, 2025** | **December 31, 2024** |
| Revenues and royalties due to others | $972 | $734 |
| Accrued drilling and production costs | 350 | 296 |
| Accrued compensation and benefits | 107 | 124 |
| Taxes payable | 157 | 142 |
| Operating leases | 51 | 71 |
| Joint interest prepayments received | 11 | 13 |
| Contract liabilities | 253 | 284 |
| Other | 144 | 122 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total other current liabilities | $2045 | $1786 |

---

**7.** **Leases**

We are a lessee under various agreements for drilling rigs, pressure pumping equipment, vehicles, office space, compressors and other equipment under non-cancelable operating leases expiring through 2036. Certain of our lease agreements include options to renew the lease, terminate the lease early or purchase the underlying asset at the end of the lease. We determine the lease term at the lease commencement date as the non-cancelable period of the lease, including options to extend or terminate the lease when we are reasonably certain to exercise the option. The Company's vehicles are the only leases with renewal options that we are reasonably certain to exercise. The renewals are reflected in the right of use ("ROU") asset and lease liability balances. Regarding our drilling rigs and pressure pumping equipment, our policy is to treat both lease and non-lease components as a single lease component.

Our operating ROU assets are included in other long-term assets while operating lease liabilities are included in other current and other long-term liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. Our total lease costs are recognized within proved natural gas and oil properties, production expenses and general and administrative expenses within our consolidated financial statements.

The following table presents our ROU assets and lease liabilities as of December 31, 2025 and 2024. As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, we did not have any finance leases.

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Operating Leases** | **Operating Leases** |
| | **December 31, 2025** | **December 31, 2024** |
| ROU assets | $99 | $145 |
| Lease liabilities: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Current lease liabilities | $51 | $71 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Long-term lease liabilities | 48 | 74 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total lease liabilities, net | $99 | $145 |

---

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

Additional information for the Company's operating leases is presented below:

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| **Lease cost:** |  |  |  |
| Operating lease cost | $91 | $88 | $107 |
| Short-term lease cost | 45 | 62 | 40 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total lease cost | $136 | $150 | $147 |
| **Other information:** |  |  |  |
| Operating cash outflows from operating leases | $32 | $13 | $10 |
| Investing cash outflows from operating leases | $104 | $137 | $137 |

---

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **December 31, 2025** | **December 31, 2024** |
| Weighted average remaining lease term - operating leases | 2.49 years | 3.03 years |
| Weighted average discount rate - operating leases | 5.77% | 5.99% |

---

Maturity analysis of operating lease liabilities is presented below:

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| | **December 31, 2025** |
| 2026 | $51 |
| 2027 | 34 |
| 2028 | 15 |
| 2029 | 6 |
| 2030 |  |
| Thereafter | 1 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Total lease payments | 107 |
| Less imputed interest | (8) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Present value of lease liabilities | 99 |
| Less current maturities | (51) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Present value of lease liabilities, less current maturities | $48 |

---

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

**8.** **Revenue**

The following tables show revenue disaggregated by operating area and product type, for the periods presented:

---

| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Year Ended December 31, 2025** | **Year Ended December 31, 2025** | **Year Ended December 31, 2025** | **Year Ended December 31, 2025** |
| | **Natural Gas** | **Oil** | **NGL** | **Total** |
| Haynesville | $3477 | $— | $— | $3477 |
| Northeast Appalachia | 2860 |  |  | 2860 |
| Southwest Appalachia | 1096 | 319 | 724 | 2139 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Natural gas, oil and NGL revenue | $7433 | $319 | $724 | $8476 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Marketing revenue | $2889 | $132 | $142 | $3163 |

---

---

| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Year Ended December 31, 2024** | **Year Ended December 31, 2024** | **Year Ended December 31, 2024** | **Year Ended December 31, 2024** |
| | **Natural Gas** | **Oil** | **NGL** | **Total** |
| Haynesville | $1205 | $— | $— | $1205 |
| Northeast Appalachia | 1242 |  |  | 1242 |
| Southwest Appalachia | 239 | 69 | 214 | 522 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Natural gas, oil and NGL revenue | $2686 | $69 | $214 | $2969 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Marketing revenue | $1095 | $116 | $79 | $1290 |

---

---

| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Year Ended December 31, 2023** | **Year Ended December 31, 2023** | **Year Ended December 31, 2023** | **Year Ended December 31, 2023** |
| | **Natural Gas** | **Oil** | **NGL** | **Total** |
| Haynesville | $1300 | $— | $— | $1300 |
| Northeast Appalachia | 1483 |  |  | 1483 |
| Eagle Ford | 70 | 596 | 98 | 764 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Natural gas, oil and NGL revenue | $2853 | $596 | $98 | $3547 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Marketing revenue | $989 | $1332 | $179 | $2500 |

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

*Major Customers*

For the year ended December 31, 2025, we had sales to one purchaser that accounted for 11% of our total revenues (before the effects of hedging). For the year ended December 31, 2024, we had no purchaser that accounted for 10% or greater of our total revenues (before the effects of hedging). For the year ended December 31, 2023, we had sales to two purchasers that accounted for approximately 17% and 10% of total revenues (before the effects of hedging). No other purchasers accounted for more than 10% of our total revenues during the years ended December 31, 2025 or 2023.

*Accounts Receivable*

Accounts receivable as of December 31, 2025 and 2024 are detailed below:

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **December 31, 2025** | **December 31, 2024** |
| Natural gas, oil and NGL sales | $1363 | $1028 |
| Joint interest | 232 | 191 |
| Other | 18 | 18 |
| Allowance for doubtful accounts | (14) | (11) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total accounts receivable, net | $1599 | $1226 |

---

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

**9.** **Income Taxes**

The components of the income tax expense (benefit) for each of the periods presented below are as follows:

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| Current Tax Expense (Benefit) |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;US Federal | $8 | $(1) | $264 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;US State and Local | 7 | (3) | 6 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total Current Tax Expense (Benefit) | 15 | (4) | 270 |
| Deferred Tax Expense (Benefit) |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;US Federal | 410 | (178) | 381 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;US State and Local | 38 | 55 | 47 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total Deferred Tax Expense (Benefit) | 448 | (123) | 428 |
| Total Income Tax Expense (Benefit) |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;US Federal | 418 | (179) | 645 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;US State and Local | 45 | 52 | 53 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total Income Tax Expense (Benefit) | $463 | $(127) | $698 |

---

The income tax expense (benefit) reported in our consolidated statement of operations is different from the federal income tax expense (benefit) computed using the federal statutory rate for the following reasons:

---

| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2025** | **2024** | **2024** | **2023** | **2023** |
| **U.S. Federal Statutory Tax Rate** | $479 | 21.0% | $(177) | 21.0% | $655 | 21.0% |
| **State and Local Income Taxes, Net of Federal Income Tax Effect**<sup>(a)</sup> | 42 | 1.8% | 29 | (3.4)% | 51 | 1.6% |
| **Tax credits** |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Research and development tax credits | (46) | (2.0)% | (32) | 3.8% | (10) | (0.3)% |
| **Changes in Valuation Allowances** | 11 | 0.5% | 9 | (1.1)% | (28) | (0.9)% |
| **Nontaxable or nondeductible items** |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Merger Related Costs | (21) | (0.9)% | 33 | (3.9)% |  | —% |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Other | 3 | 0.1% | 1 | (0.1)% | 3 | 0.1% |
| **Changes in Unrecognized Tax Benefits** |  | —% |  | —% | 6 | 0.2% |
| **Other adjustments** |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Return to provision | (35) | (1.5)% |  | —% | (16) | (0.5)% |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Capital loss expirations | 30 | 1.3% | 5 | (0.6)% | 26 | 0.8% |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Other |  | —% | 5 | (0.6)% | 11 | 0.4% |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**Effective Tax Rate** | $463 | 20.3% | $(127) | 15.1% | $698 | 22.4% |

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_________________________________________

(a)State taxes in Louisiana, Pennsylvania and West Virginia made up the majority (greater than 50 percent) of the tax effect in this category.

In 2025, the Company's overall effective tax rate increased compared to 2024 due to the prior year's deferred remeasurement due to Louisiana law change and also the impact of the merger costs. Due to the prior year pre-tax loss, these items caused the effective tax rate to be lower than the statutory national rate. The Company's effective tax rate in 2024 decreased from 2023 due to the aforementioned remeasurement due to Louisiana's law change. The return to provision adjustment in 2025 includes the impact of tax basis and attribute true ups from filing the final Southwestern tax returns during the year.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

Deferred income taxes are provided to reflect temporary differences in the tax basis of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts in the financial statements. The tax-effected temporary differences, net operating loss ("NOL") carryforwards and excess business interest expense carryforwards that comprise our deferred income taxes are as follows:

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **December 31, 2025** | **December 31, 2024** |
| Deferred tax liabilities: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Property, plant and equipment | $(2250) | $(1730) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Derivative instruments | (72) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Investments | (82) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Contracts | (71) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Right of use lease asset | (24) | (36) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Other | (5) | (3) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deferred tax liabilities | (2504) | (1769) |
| Deferred tax assets: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Net operating loss carryforwards | 1613 | 1258 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Carrying value of debt | 1 | 4 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Excess business interest expense carryforward | 654 | 777 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Capital loss carryforwards | 70 | 103 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Tax credit carryforwards | 107 | 53 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Contract liabilities | 286 | 261 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Asset retirement obligations | 169 | 123 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Future lease payments | 25 | 36 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Accrued liabilities | 22 | 39 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Derivative instruments |  | 13 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Other | 32 | 24 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deferred tax assets | 2979 | 2691 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Valuation allowance | (344) | (343) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deferred tax assets after valuation allowance | 2635 | 2348 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net deferred tax asset | $131 | $579 |
| Reflected in the accompanying balance sheets as: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Deferred income tax assets | $168 | $589 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Other long-term liabilities | (37) | (10) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | $131 | $579 |

---

As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, we had deferred tax assets of $2.979 billion and $2.691 billion, respectively, upon which we had a valuation allowance of $344 million and $343 million, respectively.

We maintain a partial valuation allowance of $344 million against a portion of our federal and state deferred tax assets such as NOLs, credit carryovers, and capital losses, which may expire before we are able to utilize them due to the application of the limitations under Section 382 and the ordering in which such attributes may be applied.

Our ability to utilize NOL carryforwards, disallowed business interest carryforwards, tax credits and possibly other tax attributes to reduce future taxable income and federal income tax is subject to various limitations under Section 382 of the Code. The utilization of such attributes may be subject to an annual limitation under Section 382 of the Code should transactions involving our equity result in a cumulative shift of more than 50% in the beneficial ownership of our stock during any three-year testing period (an "Ownership Change").

The Company experienced an Ownership Change in 2021 and as a result of the Southwestern Merger on October 1, 2024. As a result, certain limitations apply to our NOL carryforwards, disallowed business interest

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

carryforwards and general business credits. Some states impose similar limitations on tax attribute utilization upon experiencing an Ownership Change. Accordingly, our deferred tax asset position is reflective of such limitations.

On October 1, 2024, we completed the Southwestern Merger. For federal income tax purposes, the transaction qualified as a tax-free merger under Section 368 of the Code and, as a result, we acquired carryover tax basis in Southwestern's assets and liabilities. We recorded a $479 million net deferred tax liability determined through business combination accounting. Additionally, we acquired NOL and interest expense carryforwards which were previously subject to base annual Section 382 limitations of $2 million and $48 million. The acquired NOL and interest expense carryforwards that were not previously subject to a base annual Section 382 limitation are now subject to a base annual Section 382 limitation of approximately $269 million as a result of the merger. The base annual limitation is estimated to be increased over the first five years for recognized built-in gains.

As of December 31, 2025, and after taking into account each of the foregoing matters, the federal NOLs are as follows:

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Net operating losses, by year of expiration: |  |
| 2031 | $9 |
| 2032 | 3 |
| 2033 | 2 |
| 2034 | 2 |
| 2035 | 79 |
| 2036 | 642 |
| 2037 | 726 |
| Indefinitely lived | 5302 |
| Total federal net operating losses | $6765 |

---

We had state NOL carryforwards of approximately $4.818 billion. Several states adopt the federal NOL carryforward period such that our more recent state NOLs do not expire. The state NOL carryforwards are subject to apportioned amounts of the federal Section 382 limitations.

As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, we have an income tax receivable of $83 million and $32 million included in other current assets within our consolidated balance sheets, respectively.

On July 4, 2025, the current Presidential Administration signed into law the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (the "OBBBA"). This bill restores 100% bonus depreciation for property acquired and placed into service after January 19, 2025, restores the immediate expensing of research expenditures, and provides for parity between the treatment of intangible drilling costs and depreciation for purposes of the CAMT. The enactment of the OBBBA did not impact beginning of the year deferred tax balances, as there was no change in the applicable tax rate. However, the OBBBA and its provisions contributed to a reduction in the Company's expected current tax expense and is expected to have a material reduction to tax expense in future years.

Accounting guidance for recognizing and measuring uncertain tax positions requires a more likely than not threshold condition be met on a tax position, based solely on the technical merits of being sustained, before any benefit of the tax position can be recognized in the financial statements. Guidance is also provided regarding recognition, classification and disclosure of uncertain tax positions. If recognized, $31 million of the uncertain tax positions identified would have an effect on the effective tax rate. As of December 31, 2025, we had $2 million accrued for interest related to these uncertain tax positions. As of December 31, 2024, we had $1 million accrued for interest related to these uncertain tax positions. We recognize interest related to uncertain tax positions as a component of interest expense. Penalties, if any, related to uncertain tax positions would be recorded in other expenses.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| Balance at January 1 | $80 | $68 | $69 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Additions based on tax positions related to the current year | 7 | 3 | 3 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Additions to tax positions of prior years | 1 | 1 | 3 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Additions to tax positions related to acquisitions |  | 9 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Settlements |  |  | (5) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Reductions to tax positions of prior years | (24) | (1) | (2) |
| Balance at December 31 | $64 | $80 | $68 |

---

Our federal and state income tax returns are subject to examination by federal and state tax authorities. Our tax years 2022 through 2025 remain open for all purposes of examination by the IRS as well as the Southwestern 2022 through 2023 returns, and the Southwestern short period return for January 1, 2024 through October 1, 2024. However, certain earlier tax years remain open for adjustment to the extent of their NOL carryforwards available for future utilization.

In addition, tax years 2022 through 2025 as well as certain earlier years remain open for examination by state tax authorities. We do not anticipate that the outcome of any federal or state audit will have a significant impact on our financial position or results of operations.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

**10.** **Equity**

*Common Stock*

On October 1, 2024, we issued 95,700,325 shares of our common stock to Southwestern's shareholders in connection with the closing of the Southwestern Merger. See further discussion in <u>[Note 2](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_145)</u>.

During the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, 295,255, 468,723 and 12,089 reserved shares, respectively, were issued to resolve allowed General Unsecured Claims.

*Dividends*

In May 2021, we initiated an annual base dividend on our shares of common stock, expected to be paid quarterly. In March 2022, we adopted a variable return program that resulted in the payment of an additional variable dividend equal to the sum of Adjusted Free Cash Flow from the prior quarter less the base quarterly dividend, multiplied by 50%. In 2025, we prioritized paying a base dividend per share and provided for annual net debt reduction prior to additional shareholder returns such as additional dividend payments or share repurchases. The following table summarizes our dividend payments during the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023:

---

| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Base** | **Variable** | **Rate Per Share** | **Total** |
| **2025:** | | | | |
| First Quarter | $0.575 | $— | $0.575 | $138 |
| Second Quarter | $0.575 | $— | $0.575 | $138 |
| Third Quarter | $0.575 | $0.89 | $1.465 | $351 |
| Fourth Quarter | $0.575 | $— | $0.575 | $138 |
| **2024:** |  |  |  |  |
| First Quarter | $0.575 | $— | $0.575 | $77 |
| Second Quarter | $0.575 | $0.14 | $0.715 | $95 |
| Third Quarter | $0.575 | $— | $0.575 | $78 |
| Fourth Quarter | $0.575 | $— | $0.575 | $134 |
| **2023:** |  |  |  |  |
| First Quarter | $0.55 | $0.74 | $1.29 | $175 |
| Second Quarter | $0.55 | $0.63 | $1.18 | $160 |
| Third Quarter | $0.575 | $— | $0.575 | $77 |
| Fourth Quarter | $0.575 | $— | $0.575 | $75 |

---

On February 17, 2026, we declared a base quarterly dividend payable of $0.575 per share which will be paid on March 26, 2026 to stockholders of record at the close of business on March 5, 2026.

*Share Repurchase Programs*

As of December 2, 2021, the Company was authorized to purchase up to $1.0 billion of the Company's common stock and/or warrants under a share repurchase program, and in March 2022, we commenced our share repurchase program. In June 2022, our Board of Directors authorized an expansion of the share repurchase program by $1.0 billion, bringing the total authorized share repurchase amount to $2.0 billion for common stock and/or warrants. Under the $2.0 billion share repurchase program, we repurchased approximately 4.4 million shares for an aggregate price of approximately $357 million during the year ended December 31, 2023. The $2.0 billion share repurchase program expired on December 31, 2023.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

On October 22, 2024, our Board of Directors authorized repurchases of up to $1.0 billion, in aggregate, of the Company's common stock and/or warrants under a new share repurchase program. Under this $1.0 billion share repurchase program, we repurchased 0.9 million shares for an aggregate price of $100 million during the year ended December 31, 2025. We did not repurchase any shares during the year ended December 31, 2024.

The repurchased shares of common stock were retired and recorded as a reduction to common stock and retained earnings. All share repurchases made after January 1, 2023 are subject to a 1% excise tax on share repurchases, as enacted under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. We are able to net this 1% excise tax on share repurchases against certain issuance of shares of our common stock. To date, the impact of this 1% excise tax has been immaterial.

*Warrants* 

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Class A Warrants** | **Class B Warrants** | **Class C Warrants**<sup>(a)</sup> |
| Outstanding as of December 31, 2022 | 4495004 | 4404564 | 4006229 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Converted into common stock<sup>(b)</sup> | (247389) | (1500) | (5581) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Issued for General Unsecured Claims |  |  | 22835 |
| Outstanding as of December 31, 2023 | 4247615 | 4403064 | 4023483 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Converted into common stock<sup>(b)</sup> | (2993136) | (1329870) | (524242) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Issued for General Unsecured Claims |  |  | 884393 |
| Outstanding as of December 31, 2024 | 1254479 | 3073194 | 4383634 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Converted into common stock<sup>(b)</sup> | (1238774) | (3024393) | (3696720) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Issued for General Unsecured Claims |  |  | 557094 |
| Outstanding as of December 31, 2025 | 15705 | 48801 | 1244008 |

---

_________________________________________

(a)As of December 31, 2025, we had 25,015 of reserved Class C Warrants.

(b)During the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, we issued 7,497,509, 4,083,103 and 221,952 common shares, respectively, as a result of Warrant exercises.

Our Class A, Class B and Class C Warrants were initially exercisable for one share of common stock per Warrant at initial exercise prices of $27.63, $32.13 and $36.18 per share, respectively, subject to adjustments pursuant to the terms of the Warrants. The Warrants were exercisable until February 9, 2026. The Warrants contained customary anti-dilution adjustments in the event of any stock split, reverse stock split, reclassification, stock dividend or other distributions. The exercise prices of the Warrants were adjusted to prevent the dilution of rights for the effects of the quarterly dividend distribution on December 4, 2025, and the adjusted exercise prices are $21.89, $25.45, and $28.66 per share for the Class A, Class B and Class C Warrants, respectively. Additionally, we have recalculated the number of shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of each of the Class A, Class B and Class C Warrants, respectively, and as a result, 1.22 shares are issuable upon the exercise of a Class A, Class B or Class C Warrant.

At February 9, 2026, all of the outstanding Warrants had been exercised or expired. As a result of these Warrant exercises, we issued 1,122,179 common shares and no longer have any outstanding Warrants.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

**11.** **Share-Based Compensation**

Our long-term incentive plan, as amended and adopted by our Board of Directors (the "LTIP"), provides for the grant of restricted stock units ("RSUs"), restricted stock awards, stock options, stock appreciation rights, performance awards and other stock awards to the Company's employees and non-employee directors and has a share reserve equal to 6,800,000 shares of common stock.

*Restricted Stock Units.* During the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, we granted RSUs to employees and non-employee directors under the LTIP, which will vest over a three-year to five-year period and one-year period, respectively. The fair value of RSUs is based on the closing sales price of our common stock on the date of grant, and compensation expense is recognized ratably over the requisite service period. A summary of the changes in unvested RSUs is presented below:

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **<br>Unvested<br>Restricted Stock Units** | **Weighted Average<br>Grant Date<br>Fair Value Per Share** |
| | **(in thousands)** | |
| Unvested as of December 31, 2022 | 957 | $68.91 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Granted | 440 | $72.25 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Vested | (329) | $61.66 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Forfeited | (128) | $68.42 |
| Unvested as of December 31, 2023 | 940 | $73.08 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Granted <sup>(a)</sup> | 962 | $83.09 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Vested <sup>(a)</sup> | (925) | $74.18 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Forfeited | (20) | $77.71 |
| Unvested as of December 31, 2024 | 957 | $81.99 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Granted | 557 | $103.38 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Vested | (520) | $80.52 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Forfeited | (37) | $98.24 |
| Unvested as of December 31, 2025 | 957 | $94.61 |

---

_________________________________________

(a)During the year ended December 31, 2024, approximately 5.2 million Southwestern RSUs were converted to 478 thousand Company RSUs, of which approximately 384 thousand RSUs were accelerated. We recognized the accelerated share-based compensation expense related to these awards in other operating expense, net on our consolidated statements of operations. Additionally, approximately 105 thousand RSUs were accelerated related to one-time termination benefits for certain employees.

The aggregate intrinsic value of RSUs that vested during the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023 was approximately $58 million, $77 million and $25 million, respectively, based on the stock price at the time of vesting.

As of December 31, 2025, there was approximately $58 million of total unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested RSUs. The expense is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 1.93 years.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

*Performance Share Units.* During the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, we granted performance share units ("PSUs") to senior management and certain employees under the LTIP, which will generally vest over a three-year period and will be settled in shares. The performance criteria include total shareholder return ("TSR") and relative TSR ("rTSR") and could result in a total payout between 0% - 200% of the target units. The fair value of the PSUs was measured on the grant date using a Monte Carlo simulation, and compensation expense is recognized ratably over the requisite service period because these awards depend on a combination of service and market criteria.

The following table presents the assumptions used in the valuation of the PSUs granted during the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023.

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Assumption - TSR, rTSR** | **2025 PSU Awards** | **2024 PSU Awards** | **2023 PSU Awards** |
| Risk-free interest rate | 4.00% | 4.55% | 3.85% |
| Volatility | 33.40% | 39.36% | 64.4% |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A summary of the changes in unvested PSUs is presented below:

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Unvested Performance Share Units** | **Weighted Average<br>Grant Date<br>Fair Value Per Share** |
| | **(in thousands)** | |
| Unvested as of December 31, 2022 | 276 | $88.28 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Granted | 131 | $78.78 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Vested |  | $— |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Forfeited | (13) | $68.77 |
| Unvested as of December 31, 2023 | 394 | $85.78 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Granted | 133 | $95.33 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Vested | (151) | $71.29 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Forfeited |  | $— |
| Unvested as of December 31, 2024 | 376 | $94.67 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Granted | 250 | $125.64 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Vested | (132) | $108.56 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Forfeited | (30) | $113.86 |
| Unvested as of December 31, 2025 | 464 | $106.14 |

---

The aggregate intrinsic value of PSUs that vested during the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024 was approximately $22 million and $19 million, respectively, based on the stock price at the time of vesting.

As of December 31, 2025, there was approximately $26 million of total unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested PSUs. The expense is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 2.03 years.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

*RSU and PSU Compensation.* 

We recognized the following compensation costs, net of actual forfeitures, related to RSUs and PSUs for the periods presented:

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| General and administrative expenses | $37 | $33 | $29 |
| Natural gas and oil properties | 8 | 7 | 6 |
| Production expense | 6 | 4 | 4 |
| Separation and other termination costs | 2 | 9 |  |
| Marketing expense | 3 |  |  |
| Other operating expense, net | 4 | 28 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Total RSU and PSU compensation | $60 | $81 | $39 |
| Related income tax benefit | $13 | $13 | $7 |

---

**12.** **Employee Benefit Plans**

Our qualified 401(k) profit sharing plan ("401(k) Plan") is the Expand Energy Corporation 401(k) Plan, which is open to employees of Expand Energy and all our subsidiaries. Eligible employees may elect to defer compensation through voluntary contributions to their 401(k) Plan accounts, subject to plan limits and those set by the IRS. We match employee contributions dollar for dollar (subject to a maximum contribution of 6% of an employee's base salary and performance bonus) in cash. In addition to our employer match contributions, we have a discretionary fixed dollar contribution benefit for all employees, paid quarterly, which is based upon a calculation of 1% of Adjusted Free Cash Flow less the base quarterly dividend. This discretionary fixed dollar contribution is subject to an annual maximum contribution of $15,000 per employee. We contributed $25 million, $8 million and $13 million to the 401(k) Plan during the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

**13.** **Derivative and Hedging Activities**

We use derivative instruments to reduce our exposure to fluctuations in future commodity prices and to protect our expected operating cash flow against significant market movements or volatility. All of our natural gas, oil and NGL derivative instruments are net settled based on the difference between the fixed-price payment and the floating-price payment, resulting in a net amount due to or from the counterparty. None of our open natural gas, oil and NGL derivative instruments were designated for hedge accounting as of December 31, 2025 and 2024.

*Natural Gas, Oil and NGL Derivatives*

As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, our natural gas, oil and NGL derivative instruments consisted of the following types of instruments:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• *Swaps*: We receive a fixed price and pay a floating market price to the counterparty for the hedged commodity. In exchange for higher fixed prices on certain of our swap trades, we may sell call options and swap options.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• *Options*: We have bought and sold call options in exchange for a premium. At the time of settlement, if the market price exceeds the fixed price of the call option, we pay the counterparty the excess on sold call options and receive the excess on bought call options. If the market price settles below the fixed price of the call option, no payment is due from either party.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*• Collars*: These instruments contain a fixed floor price (put) and ceiling price (call). In two-way collars, if the market price exceeds the call strike price or falls below the put strike price, we receive the fixed price and pay the market price. Additionally, if the market price is between the put and the call strike prices, no payments are due from either party. Three-way collars include the sale by us of an additional put option in exchange for a more favorable strike price on the call option. This eliminates the counterparty's downside exposure below the second put option strike price.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*• Basis Protection Swaps*: These instruments are arrangements that guarantee a fixed price differential to NYMEX from a specified delivery point. We receive the fixed price differential and pay the floating market price differential to the counterparty for the hedged commodity.

The estimated fair values of our natural gas, oil and NGL derivative instrument assets (liabilities) as of December 31, 2025 and 2024 are provided below:

---

| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **December 31, 2025** | **December 31, 2025** | **December 31, 2024** | **December 31, 2024** |
| | **Notional Volume** | **Fair Value** | **Notional Volume** | **Fair Value** |
| **Natural gas (Bcf):** | | | | |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Fixed-price swaps | 756 | $128 | 369 | $(28) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Two-way collars | 1143 | 212 | 1098 | (27) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Three-way collars | 175 | 32 | 161 | 60 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Call options (purchased) |  |  | 73 | 1 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Call options (sold) | 73 | (1) | 219 | (16) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Basis protection swaps | 337 | (66) | 279 | (39) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total natural gas | 2484 | 305 | 2199 | (49) |
| **Oil (MMBbls):** |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Three-way collars |  | $2 | 2 | $4 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total oil |  | 2 | 2 | 4 |
| **NGLs (MMBbls):** |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Fixed-price swaps |  | $— | 7 | $(9) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total NGL |  |  | 7 | (9) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total estimated fair value |  | $307 |  | $(54) |

---

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

*Effect of Derivative Instruments – Consolidated Balance Sheets*

The following table presents the fair value and location of each classification of derivative instrument included in the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2025 and 2024 on a gross basis and after same-counterparty netting:

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Gross** <br>**Fair Value**<sup>(a)</sup> | **Amounts Netted** <br>**in the** <br>**Consolidated** <br>**Balance Sheets** | **Net Fair Value**<br>**Presented in the**<br>**Consolidated**<br>**Balance Sheets** |
| **As of December 31, 2025** | | | |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Commodity Contracts: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Short-term derivative asset | $340 | $(76) | $264 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Long-term derivative asset | 66 | (19) | 47 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Short-term derivative liability | (79) | 76 | (3) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Long-term derivative liability | (20) | 19 | (1) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total derivatives | $307 | $— | $307 |
| **As of December 31, 2024** |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Commodity Contracts: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Short-term derivative asset | $191 | $(107) | $84 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Long-term derivative asset | 6 | (5) | 1 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Short-term derivative liability | (178) | 107 | (71) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Long-term derivative liability | (73) | 5 | (68) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total derivatives | $(54) | $— | $(54) |

---

___________________________________________

(a)These financial assets (liabilities) are measured at fair value on a recurring basis utilizing significant other observable inputs; see further discussion on fair value measurements below.

*Fair Value*

The fair value of our commodity derivatives is based on third-party pricing models, which utilize inputs that are either readily available in the public market, such as natural gas, oil and NGL forward curves and discount rates, or can be corroborated from active markets or broker quotes, and, as such, are classified as Level 2. These values are compared to the values given by our counterparties for reasonableness. Derivatives are also subject to the risk that either party to a contract will be unable to meet its obligations. We factor non-performance risk into the valuation of our derivatives using current published credit default swap rates. To date, this has not had a material impact on the values of our derivatives.

*Credit Risk Considerations*

Our derivative instruments expose us to our counterparties' credit risk. To mitigate this risk, we only enter into commodity contracts derivatives with counterparties that are highly rated or deemed by us to have acceptable credit strength and deemed by management to be competent and competitive market-makers, and we attempt to limit our exposure to non-performance by any single counterparty. As of December 31, 2025, our commodity contracts derivative instruments were spread among 19 counterparties.

*Hedging Arrangements*

Certain of our hedging arrangements are with counterparties that are also Lenders (or affiliates of Lenders) under our 2025 Credit Facility. We do not expect to post cash or letters of credit to secure our obligations under these hedging arrangements while we have our investment grade ratings. The obligations under these contracts must be secured by cash or letters of credit to the extent that any mark-to-market amounts exceed defined thresholds. As of December 31, 2025, we did not have any cash or letters of credit posted as collateral for our commodity derivatives.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

**14.** **Other Property and Equipment**

A summary of other property and equipment held for use and the estimated useful lives thereof is as follows:

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | | | **Estimated** <br>**Useful**<br>**Life** |
| | **December 31, 2025** | **December 31, 2024** | **Estimated** <br>**Useful**<br>**Life** |
| | | | **(in years)** |
| Buildings and improvements | $135 | $329 | 10 - 39 |
| Computer equipment | 110 | 110 | 5 |
| Gathering and water systems | 76 | 78 | 7 - 20 |
| Machinery and equipment | 53 | 40 | 7 - 10 |
| Land | 25 | 29 |  |
| Other | 110 | 68 | 3 - 15 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total other property and equipment, at cost | 509 | 654 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Less: accumulated depreciation | (152) | (127) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total other property and equipment, net | $357 | $527 |  |

---

On December 31, 2025, we sold a portion of our Oklahoma City campus and recognized a loss of $69 million based on the difference between the carrying value of the assets and the consideration received. Additionally, as of December 31, 2025, we signed agreements to sell other parts of our Oklahoma City campus. Approximately $40 million was classified as held for sale related to these agreements and we recognized asset impairments of $37 million based on the difference between the carrying value of the assets and the agreed upon sale price. We anticipate these agreements closing in the first quarter of 2026.

**15.** **Investments**

*Momentum Sustainable Ventures LLC.* During the fourth quarter of 2022, the Company entered into an agreement with Momentum Sustainable Ventures LLC ("Momentum") to build a new natural gas gathering pipeline and carbon capture project, which gathers and treats natural gas produced in the Haynesville Shale for delivery to Gulf Coast markets, including LNG export, the New Generation Gas Gathering LLC ("NG3" operated pipeline) (the "NG3 pipeline"). The NG3 pipeline was placed in service and began gathering operations on October 1, 2025. Under a CO2 services agreement with ExxonMobil Low Carbon Solutions Onshore Storage, LLC ("Exxon"), NG3 anticipates that it will deliver CO2 to Exxon for capture, additional transportation and storage. We have a 35% interest in the joint venture entity and classify our investment with Momentum in the NG3 pipeline as a related party.

We have accounted for this investment as an equity method investment, and its carrying value, which is reflected within other long-term assets on the consolidated balance sheets, was $313 million and $307 million as of December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively. As of December 31, 2025, the carrying value of our investment included approximately $29 million of capitalized interest related to the project. We recognize our proportionate share of income (loss) related to our investment with Momentum in other income, net within our consolidated statements of operations. Our proportionate share of income (loss) related to our investment with Momentum is recognized on a three-month lag and during the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, our proportionate share of income (loss) related our investment in the NG3 pipeline did not have a material impact to our financial statements. We periodically review our investment with Momentum to determine if a loss in value, which is other than a temporary decline, has occurred. If an other than temporary decline has occurred, we recognize an impairment on our investment. Through December 31, 2025, we have not recognized any impairments related to our investment with Momentum.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

The NG3 pipeline provides to us certain gathering, processing and transportation services. We have a gathering agreement in which approximately 900 MMcf per day, on average, of natural gas are to be gathered and processed by the NG3 pipeline over the course of the next 12 years. During the year ended December 31, 2025, approximately $15 million of our gathering, processing and transportation expenses were related to services provided by the NG3 pipeline, and is reflected within our consolidated statements of operations. Additionally, approximately $12 million of our accounts payable balance as of December 31, 2025 was related gathering, processing and transportation services rendered to us by the NG3 pipeline.

**16.** **Asset Retirement Obligations**

The components of the change in our asset retirement obligations are shown below:

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** |
| Asset retirement obligations, beginning of period | $531 | $276 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Additions<sup>(a)</sup> | 16 | 263 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Revisions<sup>(b)</sup> | 157 | (21) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Settlements and disposals | (10) | (5) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Accretion expense | 30 | 18 |
| Asset retirement obligations, end of period | 724 | 531 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Less current portion | 36 | 32 |
| Asset retirement obligations, long-term | $688 | $499 |

---

___________________________________________

(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;During the year ended December 31, 2024, approximately $251 million of additions relate to the Southwestern Merger. See <u>[Note 2](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_145)</u> for further discussion of this transaction.

(b)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In 2025, revisions primarily represent changes in the present value of liabilities resulting from changes in estimated costs.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

**17.** **Supplemental Cash Flow Information**

Supplemental disclosures to the consolidated statements of cash flows are presented below.

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| **Changes in assets and liabilities** |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Accounts receivable | $(370) | $(168) | $857 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Accounts payable | (68) | (62) | (152) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other current assets | (40) | 3 | 143 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other current liabilities | 193 | (88) | (573) |
| Total | $(285) | $(315) | $275 |
| **Supplemental cash flow information:** |  |  |  |
| Interest paid, net of capitalized interest | $230 | $93 | $117 |
| Income taxes paid (refunds received), net |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Federal | $80 | $7 | $120 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;State<sup>(a)</sup> | $(14) | $(10) | $12 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | $66 | $(3) | $132 |
| **Supplemental disclosure of significant <br> non-cash investing and financing activities:** |  |  |  |
| Change in accrued drilling and completion costs | $114 | $(49) | $(31) |
| Common stock issued for business combination | $— | $7888 | $— |
| Operating lease obligations recognized | $39 | $137 | $96 |
| Liabilities established in connection with property acquisitions | $29 | $— | $— |

---

_________________________________________

(a)Income taxes paid (refunds received), net by state is provided below. Amounts reported within other states below include states that are individually below the reporting threshold.

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| **State** |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Louisiana | $(15) | $(1) | $12 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;New York | 1 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pennsylvania | (1) | (10) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Texas |  | 2 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;West Virginia | 1 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other states |  | (1) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | $(14) | $(10) | $12 |

---

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**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)**

**18.** **Segment Information**

Operating segments are defined as components of an enterprise that engage in activities from which it may earn revenues and incur expenses for which separate operational financial information is available and is regularly evaluated by the CODM, who is our Chief Executive Officer, for the purpose of allocating an enterprise's resources and assessing its operating performance. Our revenues are derived from the production, marketing and sale of natural gas, oil and NGL. Additional information on our revenues, including the disaggregation of our revenues and major customers, is found in <u>[Note 8](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_166)</u>. As of December 31, 2025, we considered each of our operating areas as operating segments, however, we have aggregated those operating segments into one reportable segment due to the similar nature of the exploration and production business across Expand Energy and its consolidated subsidiaries and the fact that our marketing activities are ancillary to our operations.

Our CODM uses consolidated net income (loss), for purposes of allocating resources and in assessing Expand Energy's operating performance, which also includes analyzing results to forecasted information. Additionally, our CODM is regularly provided information on production expense, gathering, processing and transportation expense, severance and ad valorem taxes and general and administrative expense, which are our significant segment expenses. Other segment items primarily consist of depreciation, depletion and amortization, marketing expense, interest expense and income tax expense (benefit). Our significant segment expenses and other segment items are derived from, and can be found within the consolidated statements of operations.

The measure of segment assets is total assets as reported on our consolidated balance sheets, and as of December 31, 2025 and 2024 our total assets were $28,287 million and $27,894 million, respectively. Additionally, in analyzing company performance, our CODM reviews capital expenditures. During the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, our capital expenditures were $2,852 million, $1,529 million and $1,782 million, respectively. We did not make any contributions to equity method investments during the year ended December 31, 2025 and during the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, we contributed approximately $58 million and $220 million, respectively, to equity method investments, which primarily consisted of our investment with Momentum Sustainable Ventures LLC. Additional discussion around our investment with Momentum Sustainable Ventures LLC is in <u>[Note 15](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_190)</u>. Our interest revenue during the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023 was $16 million, $45 million and $29 million, respectively.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION**

**Supplemental Disclosures About Natural Gas, Oil and NGL Producing Activities (unaudited)**

*Net Capitalized Costs*

Capitalized costs related to our natural gas, oil and NGL producing activities are summarized as follows:

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | **December 31, 2025** | **December 31, 2024** |
| Natural gas and oil properties: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proved | $26606 | $23093 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Unproved | 5478 | 5897 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | 32084 | 28990 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Less accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization | (8126) | (5235) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net capitalized costs | $23958 | $23755 |

---

Unproved properties as of December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024 primarily consisted of leasehold acquired through our Southwestern Merger in 2024. We will continue to evaluate our unproved properties, and although the timing of the ultimate evaluation or disposition of the properties cannot be determined, we can expect the majority of our unproved properties not held by production to be transferred into the amortization base over the next five years.

*Costs Incurred in Natural Gas and Oil Property Acquisition, Exploration and Development*

Costs incurred in natural gas and oil property acquisition, exploration and development, including capitalized interest and asset retirement costs, are summarized as follows:

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| Acquisition of properties<sup>(a)</sup>: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proved properties | $5 | $10010 | $10 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Unproved properties | 409 | 4393 | 52 |
| Exploratory costs | 45 | 17 | 15 |
| Development costs | 2751 | 1420 | 1721 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Costs incurred | $3210 | $15840 | $1798 |

---

___________________________________________

(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Includes $10.0 billion and $4.3 billion of proved and unproved property acquisitions, respectively, related to the Southwestern Merger in 2024.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION - (Continued)**

*Results of Operations from Natural Gas, Oil and NGL Producing Activities* 

The following table includes revenues and expenses associated directly with our natural gas, oil and NGL producing activities for the periods presented. It does not include any derivative activity, interest costs or indirect general and administrative costs and, therefore, is not necessarily indicative of the contribution to consolidated net operating results of our natural gas, oil and NGL operations.

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| Natural gas, oil and NGL sales | $8476 | $2969 | $3547 |
| Production expenses | (635) | (316) | (356) |
| Gathering, processing and transportation expenses | (2376) | (1035) | (853) |
| Severance and ad valorem taxes | (193) | (97) | (167) |
| Exploration | (46) | (10) | (27) |
| Depletion and depreciation | (2890) | (1673) | (1478) |
| Accretion of asset retirement obligations | (30) | (18) | (16) |
| Imputed income tax provision<sup>(a)</sup> | (542) | 42 | (152) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Results of operations from natural gas, oil and NGL producing activities | $1764 | $(138) | $498 |

---

___________________________________________

(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The imputed income tax provision is hypothetical (at the statutory tax rate) and determined without regard to our deduction for general and administrative expenses, interest costs and other income tax credits and deductions, nor whether the hypothetical tax provision (benefit) will be payable (receivable).

*Natural Gas, Oil and NGL Reserve Quantities*

Our petroleum engineers estimated all of our proved reserves as of December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023. Independent petroleum engineering firm Netherland, Sewell & Associates, Inc. audited our total proved reserves as of December 31, 2025.

Proved natural gas, oil and NGL reserves are those quantities of natural gas, oil and NGL which, by analysis of geoscience and engineering data, can be estimated with reasonable certainty to be economically producible – from a given date forward, from known reservoirs, and under existing economic conditions, operating methods, and government regulations – prior to the time at which contracts providing the right to operate expire, unless evidence indicates that renewal is reasonably certain, regardless of whether deterministic or probabilistic methods are used for the estimation. Existing economic conditions include prices and costs at which economic producibility from a reservoir is to be determined. Based on reserve reporting rules, the price is calculated using the average price during the 12-month period prior to the ending date of the period covered by the report, determined as an unweighted arithmetic average of the first-day-of-the-month price for each month within the period, unless prices are defined by contractual arrangements, excluding escalations based upon future conditions. A project to extract hydrocarbons must have commenced or the operator must be reasonably certain that it will commence the project within a reasonable time. The area of the reservoir considered as proved includes: (i) the area identified by drilling and limited by fluid contacts, if any, and (ii) adjacent undrilled portions of the reservoir that can, with reasonable certainty, be judged to be continuous with it and to contain economically producible natural gas or oil on the basis of available geoscience and engineering data. In the absence of data on fluid contacts, proved quantities in a reservoir are limited by the lowest known hydrocarbons as seen in a well penetration unless geoscience, engineering or performance data and reliable technology establish a lower contact with reasonable certainty. Where direct observation from well penetrations has defined a highest known oil elevation and the potential exists for an associated natural gas cap, proved oil reserves may be assigned in the structurally higher portions of the reservoir only if geoscience, engineering or performance data and reliable technology establish the higher contact with reasonable certainty. Reserves which can be produced economically through application of improved recovery techniques (including, but not limited to, fluid injection) are included in the proved classification when: (i) successful testing by a pilot project in an area of the reservoir with properties no more favorable than in the reservoir as a whole, the operation of an installed program in the reservoir or an analogous reservoir, or other evidence using reliable technology establishes the reasonable certainty of the engineering analysis on which the project or program

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION - (Continued)**

was based; and (ii) the project has been approved for development by all necessary parties and entities, including governmental entities.

The information provided below on our natural gas, oil and NGL reserves is presented in accordance with regulations prescribed by the SEC. Our reserve estimates are generally based upon extrapolation of historical production trends, analogy to similar properties and volumetric calculations. Accordingly, these estimates will change as future information becomes available and as commodity prices change. These changes could be material and could occur in the near term.

Presented below is a summary of changes in estimated proved reserves for the periods presented:

---

| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Natural Gas** | **Oil** | **NGL** | **Total** |
| | **(Bcf)** | **(MMBbl)** | **(MMBbl)** | **(Bcfe)** |
| **December 31, 2025** | | | | |
| Proved reserves, beginning of period | 16924 | 67.9 | 578.1 | 20800 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Extensions, discoveries and other additions | 52 |  |  | 52 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Revisions of previous estimates | 8008 | (3.2) | (56.6) | 7650 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Production | (2409) | (5.9) | (29.6) | (2622) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sale of reserves-in-place |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Purchase of reserves-in-place |  |  |  |  |
| Proved reserves, end of period | 22575 | 58.8 | 491.9 | 25880 |
| Proved developed reserves: |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Beginning of period | 14418 | 40.3 | 383.0 | 16958 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;End of period | 16395 | 35.0 | 328.5 | 18576 |
| Proved undeveloped reserves: |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Beginning of period | 2506 | 27.6 | 195.1 | 3842 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;End of period<sup>(a)</sup> | 6180 | 23.8 | 163.4 | 7304 |
| **December 31, 2024** |  |  |  |  |
| Proved reserves, beginning of period | 9688 |  |  | 9688 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Extensions, discoveries and other additions | 124 |  |  | 124 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Revisions of previous estimates | (1654) |  |  | (1654) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Production | (1321) | (1.2) | (7.8) | (1375) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sale of reserves-in-place |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Purchase of reserves-in-place | 10087 | 69.1 | 585.9 | 14017 |
| Proved reserves, end of period | 16924 | 67.9 | 578.1 | 20800 |
| Proved developed reserves: |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Beginning of period | 6363 |  |  | 6363 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;End of period | 14418 | 40.3 | 383.0 | 16958 |
| Proved undeveloped reserves: |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Beginning of period | 3325 |  |  | 3325 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;End of period<sup>(a)</sup> | 2506 | 27.6 | 195.1 | 3842 |

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION - (Continued)**

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Natural Gas** | **Oil** | **NGL** | **Total** |
| | **(Bcf)** | **(MMBbl)** | **(MMBbl)** | **(Bcfe)** |
| **December 31, 2023** | | | | |
| Proved reserves, beginning of period | 11369 | 198.4 | 73.9 | 13002 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Extensions, discoveries and other additions | 415 |  |  | 415 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Revisions of previous estimates | (325) |  |  | (325) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Production | (1266) | (7.7) | (3.8) | (1335) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sale of reserves-in-place | (563) | (190.7) | (70.1) | (2127) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Purchase of reserves-in-place | 58 |  |  | 58 |
| Proved reserves, end of period | 9688 |  |  | 9688 |
| Proved developed reserves: |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Beginning of period | 7385 | 157.2 | 58.9 | 8681 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;End of period | 6363 |  |  | 6363 |
| Proved undeveloped reserves: |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Beginning of period | 3984 | 41.2 | 15.0 | 4321 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;End of period<sup>(a)</sup> | 3325 |  |  | 3325 |

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___________________________________________

(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As of December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, there were no PUDs that had remained undeveloped for five years or more.

During 2025, we recorded 7,650 Bcfe of upward revisions of previous estimates, with 2,028 Bcfe of upward revisions due to higher natural gas prices in 2025 and 5,622 Bcfe due to non-price related positive revisions. The non-price positive revisions primarily consisted of 6,858 Bcfe of new PUDs and new producing wells that had improved economics and were in areas previously classified as proved, partially offset by 1,236 Bcfe of reserves decreases on existing proved properties. The non-price revision decreases were related to an update to the ethane recovery assumptions of 555 Bcfe as well as 146 Bcfe of negative non-price revisions related to updates to development plans, both of these revisions primarily within Southwest Appalachia. Additionally, 535 Bcfe of negative revisions were due to aligning production forecasts with latest production trends. We recorded extensions and discoveries of 52 Bcfe, primarily related to new PUDs in Southwest Appalachia. The natural gas, oil and NGL prices used in computing our reserves as of December 31, 2025, were $3.39 per Mcf, $65.34 per Bbl and $65.34 per Bbl, respectively, before basis differential adjustments.

During 2024, we acquired 14,017 Bcfe, primarily related to the Southwestern Merger. We recorded extensions and discoveries of 124 Bcfe, primarily related to new PUDs in Northeast Appalachia and previously unproved producing wells in both Northeast Appalachia and Haynesville. We recorded 1,654 Bcfe of downward revisions of previous estimates, with 2,395 Bcfe of downward revisions due to lower natural gas, oil and NGL prices in 2024, partially offset by 741 Bcfe of non-price related positive revisions. The non-price revisions primarily consisted of 750 Bcfe of reserves increases on existing proved properties, related to increases in PUD forecasts and aligning forecasts for proved developed wells with latest production trends, increased ownership interests in some of the locations, and improved differentials in Haynesville. Also included within the non-price revisions were 174 Bcfe of new PUDs and producing wells in areas previously classified as proved, and 183 Bcfe of downward revisions due to development plan and other changes in Northeast Appalachia and Haynesville. The natural gas, oil and NGL prices used in computing our reserves as of December 31, 2024, were $2.13 per Mcf, $75.48 per Bbl and $75.48 per Bbl, respectively, before basis differential adjustments.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION - (Continued)**

During 2023, we divested 2,127 Bcfe, primarily related to our Eagle Ford divestitures. We recorded extensions and discoveries of 415 Bcfe, primarily related to new PUDs and previously unproved producing wells in the Upper Marcellus and Bossier Shales. We recorded 325 Bcfe of downward revisions of previous estimates, with 1,623 Bcfe of downward revisions due to lower natural gas, oil and NGL prices in 2023, partially offset by 1,298 Bcfe of non-price related positive revisions. The non-price revisions primarily consisted of 1,517 Bcfe from new PUDs and producing wells added in previously proved areas, 469 Bcfe of positive revisions to previously recorded PUD reserves primarily due to expected longer laterals in both Northeast Appalachia and Haynesville, partially offset by downward revisions of 451 Bcfe due to development plan and other changes in Northeast Appalachia and Haynesville, and a downward revision of 237 Bcfe on proved developed reserves related to aligning forecasts with latest production trends. The natural gas, oil and NGL prices used in computing our reserves as of December 31, 2023, were $2.64 per Mcf, $78.22 per Bbl and $28.61 per Bbl, respectively, before basis differential adjustments.

*Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows* 

Accounting Standards Codification Topic 932 prescribes guidelines for computing a standardized measure of future net cash flows and changes therein relating to estimated proved reserves. Expand Energy has followed these guidelines which are briefly discussed below.

Future cash inflows and future production and development costs as of December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023 were determined by applying the average of the first-day-of-the-month prices for the 12 months of the year and year-end costs to the estimated quantities of natural gas, oil and NGL to be produced. Actual future prices and costs may be materially higher or lower than the prices and costs used. For each year, estimates are made of quantities of proved reserves and the future periods during which they are expected to be produced based on continuation of the economic conditions applied for that year. Estimated future income taxes are computed using current statutory income tax rates including consideration of the current tax basis of the properties and related carryforwards, giving effect to permanent differences and tax credits. The resulting future net cash flows are reduced to present value amounts by applying a 10% annual discount factor.

The assumptions used to compute the standardized measure are those prescribed by the Financial Accounting Standards Board and do not necessarily reflect our expectations of actual revenue to be derived from those reserves nor their present worth. The limitations inherent in the reserve quantity estimation process, as discussed previously, are equally applicable to the standardized measure computations since these estimates reflect the valuation process.

The following summary sets forth our future net cash flows relating to proved natural gas, oil and NGL reserves based on the standardized measure:

---

| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | |
| | **2025** | | **2024** | | **2023** | |
| Future cash inflows | $54193 | <sup>(a)</sup> | $24213 | <sup>(b)</sup> | $14659 | <sup>(c)</sup> |
| Future production costs | (10794) |  | (7007) |  | (3326) |  |
| Future development costs | (6397) | <sup>(d)</sup> | (3537) | <sup>(e)</sup> | (2779) | <sup>(f)</sup> |
| Future income tax provisions | (4603) |  | (119) |  | (174) |  |
| Future net cash flows | 32399 |  | 13550 |  | 8380 |  |
| Less effect of a 10% discount factor | (15273) |  | (6019) |  | (3903) |  |
| Standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows | $17126 |  | $7531 |  | $4477 |  |

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___________________________________________

(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Calculated using prices of $3.39 per Mcf of natural gas, $65.34 per Bbl of oil and $65.34 per Bbl of NGL, before basis differential adjustments.

(b)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Calculated using prices of $2.13 per Mcf of natural gas, $75.48 per Bbl of oil and $75.48 per Bbl of NGL, before basis differential adjustments.

(c)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Calculated using prices of $2.64 per Mcf of natural gas, before basis differential adjustments.

(d)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Included approximately $2,120 million of future plugging and abandonment costs as of December 31, 2025.

(e)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Included approximately $1,625 million of future plugging and abandonment costs as of December 31, 2024.

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES**

**SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION - (Continued)**

(f)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Included approximately $730 million of future plugging and abandonment costs as of December 31, 2023.

The principal sources of change in the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows are as follows:

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** | **Years Ended December 31,** |
| | **2025** | **2024** | **2023** |
| Standardized measure, beginning of period | $7531 | $4477 | $26305 |
| Sales of natural gas, oil and NGL produced, net of production costs<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;and gathering, processing and transportation<sup>(a)</sup> | (5272) | (1521) | (2171) |
| Net changes in prices and production costs | 11359 | (2266) | (23535) |
| Extensions and discoveries, net of production and <br> development costs | 19 | 50 | 182 |
| Changes in estimated future development costs | (2316) | 652 | 346 |
| Previously estimated development costs incurred during the period | 827 | 396 | 818 |
| Revisions of previous quantity estimates | 7109 | (922) | (205) |
| Purchase of reserves-in-place |  | 5409 | 77 |
| Sales of reserves-in-place |  |  | (7158) |
| Accretion of discount | 757 | 457 | 3270 |
| Net change in income taxes | (2213) | 58 | 6301 |
| Changes in production rates and other | (675) | 741 | 247 |
| Standardized measure, end of period<sup>(a)</sup> | $17126 | $7531 | $4477 |

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___________________________________________

(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Excludes gains and losses on derivatives. Production costs includes severance and ad valorem taxes.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 9.** | ***Changes In and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure*** |

---

Not applicable.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 9A.** | ***Controls and Procedures*** |

---

*Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures*

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in reports we file or submit under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

As of the end of the period covered by this report, we carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of management, including our Interim Chief Executive Officer and Interim Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(b). Based on that evaluation, our Interim Chief Executive Officer and Interim Chief Financial Officer concluded as of December 31, 2025 that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

*Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting*

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended December 31, 2025 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

*Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting*

It is the responsibility of the management of Expand Energy Corporation to establish and maintain adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934). Management utilized the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission's *Internal Control-Integrated Framework* (2013) in conducting the required assessment of effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting.

Management has performed an assessment of the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting and has determined the Company's internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2025.

The effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2025 has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in its report which appears herein.

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| |
|:---|
| /s/ MICHAEL A. WICHTERICH |
| Michael A. Wichterich |
| Chairman of the Board, Interim President and Chief Executive Officer |
| /s/ BRITTANY RAIFORD |
| Brittany Raiford |
| Vice President, Interim Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer |
| February 18, 2026 |

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 9B.** | ***Other Information*** |

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*<u>Rule 10b5-1 Trading Arrangements</u>*

During the three months ended December 31, 2025, no director or officer of the Company adopted or terminated a "Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement" or "non-Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement", as each term is defined in Item 408 of Regulation S-K.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 9C.** | ***Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspections*** |

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Not applicable.

**PART III**

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 10.** | ***Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance*** |

---

The names of executive officers of the Company and their ages, titles and biographies as of the date hereof are incorporated by reference from Item 1 of Part I of this report. The other information called for by this Item 10 is incorporated herein by reference to the definitive proxy statement to be filed by Expand Energy pursuant to Regulation 14A of the General Rules and Regulations under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 no later than 120 days following the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025 (the "2026 Proxy Statement").

*<u>Code of Business Conduct</u>*

The Company has adopted a Code of Business Conduct that applies to all of its officers, directors and employees. We have posted a copy of our Code of Business Conduct on the "Sustainability" section of our website at www.expandenergy.com. Any amendments to, or waivers from, our Code of Business Conduct that apply to our executive officers and directors will be posted on the "Sustainability" section of our website at www.expandenergy.com. Note that the information on the Company's website is not incorporated by reference into this filing.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 11.** | ***Executive Compensation*** |

---

The information called for by this Item 11 is incorporated herein by reference to the 2026 Proxy Statement.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 12.** | ***Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters*** |

---

The information called for by this Item 12 is incorporated herein by reference to the 2026 Proxy Statement.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 13.** | ***Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence*** |

---

The information called for by this Item 13 is incorporated herein by reference to the 2026 Proxy Statement.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 14.** | ***Principal Accountant Fees and Services*** |

---

The information called for by this Item 14 is incorporated herein by reference to the 2026 Proxy Statement.

------

**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

**PART IV**

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 15.** | ***Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules*** |

---

____________________________________________

(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The following financial statements, financial statement schedules and exhibits are filed as a part of this report:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1.*Financial Statements*. Expand Energy's consolidated financial statements are included in <u>[Item 8 of Part II](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_121)</u> of this report. Reference is made to the accompanying Index to Financial Statements.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.*Financial Statement Schedules*. No financial statement schedules are applicable or required.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.*Exhibits*. The exhibits listed below in the Index of Exhibits are filed, furnished or incorporated by reference pursuant to the requirements of Item 601 of Regulation S-K.

**INDEX OF EXHIBITS**

---

| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | | **Incorporated by Reference** | **Incorporated by Reference** | **Incorporated by Reference** | **Incorporated by Reference** | |
|<br>**Exhibit**<br>**Number** |<br>**Exhibit Description** | **Form** | **SEC File**<br>**Number** | **Exhibit** | **Filing Date** |<br>**Filed or**<br>**Furnished**<br>**Herewith** |
| 2.1 | <u>[Fifth Amended Joint Plan of Reorganization of Chesapeake Energy Corporation and its Debtor Affiliates Pursuant to Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code (Exhibit A of the Confirmation Order).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000089512621000016/ex212021-01x16confirmation.htm)</u> | 8-K | 001-13726 | 2.1 | 1/19/2021 |  |
| 2.2\* | <u>[Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of January 10, 2024, among Chesapeake Energy Corporation, Hulk Merger Sub, Inc., Hulk LLC Sub, LLC, and Southwestern Energy Corporation](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000110465924003344/tm243107d1_ex2-1.htm)</u> | 8-K | 001-13726 | 2.1 | 1/11/2024 |  |
| 3.1 | <u>[Third Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Expand Energy Corporation.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000110465924104976/tm2425151d1_ex3-1.htm)</u> | 8-K | 001-13726 | 3.1 | 10/1/2024 |  |
| 3.2 | <u>[Third Amended and Restated Bylaws of Expand Energy Corporation.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000110465924104976/tm2425151d1_ex3-2.htm)</u> | 8-K | 001-13726 | 3.2 | 10/1/2024 |  |
| 4.1 | <u>[Description of Securities.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000089512621000035/form8-axemergence.htm)</u> | 8-A | 001-13726 | N/A | 2/9/2021 |  |
| 10.1 | <u>[Restructuring Support Agreement, dated June 28, 2020.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000110465920077745/tm2023599d1_ex10-1.htm)</u> | 8-K | 001-13726 | 10.1 | 6/29/2020 |  |
| 10.2 | <u>[Backstop Commitment Agreement, dated June 28, 2020 (Exhibit 4 to the Restructuring Support Agreement).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000110465920077745/tm2023599d1_ex10-1.htm)</u> | 8-K | 001-13726 | 10.1 | 6/29/2020 |  |
| 10.3 | <u>[Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of February 9, 2021, by and among Chesapeake Energy Corporation and the other parties signatory thereto.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000089512621000033/ex102registrationrightsagr.htm)</u> | 8-K | 001-13726 | 10.2 | 2/9/2021 |  |
| 10.4 | <u>[Class A Warrant Agreement, dated as of February 9, 2021, between Chesapeake Energy Corporation and Equiniti Trust Company.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000089512621000033/ex103classawarrantagreement.htm)</u> | 8-K | 001-13726 | 10.3 | 2/9/2021 |  |
| 10.5 | <u>[Class B Warrant Agreement, dated as of February 9, 2021, between Chesapeake Energy Corporation and Equiniti Trust Company.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000089512621000033/ex104classbwarrantagreement.htm)</u> | 8-K | 001-13726 | 10.4 | 2/9/2021 |  |
| 10.6 | <u>[Class C Warrant Agreement, dated as of February 9, 2021, between Chesapeake Energy Corporation and Equiniti Trust Company.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000089512621000033/ex105classcwarrantagreement.htm)</u> | 8-K | 001-13726 | 10.5 | 2/9/2021 |  |

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

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| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| 10.7 | <u>[Form of Indemnity Agreement.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000089512625000021/exe-ex107xformofindemnitya.htm)</u> | 10-K | 001-13726 | 10.7 | 2/26/2025 |  |
| 10.8† | <u>[Expand Energy Corporation 2021 Long Term Incentive Plan.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000089512625000021/exe-ex108xexpandenergycorp.htm)</u> | 10-K | 001-13726 | 10.8 | 2/26/2025 |  |
| 10.9 | <u>[Purchase Agreement, dated as of February 2, 2021, by and among Chesapeake Escrow Issuer LLC, and Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC, RBC Capital Markets, LLC, as representatives of the purchasers signatory thereto, with respect to 5.5% Senior Notes due 2026 and 5.875% Senior Notes due 2029.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000089512621000078/ex10102020-12x31purchaseag.htm)</u> | 10-K | 001-13726 | 10.10 | 3/1/2021 |  |
| 10.10 | <u>[Indenture dated as of February 5, 2021, among Chesapeake Escrow Issuer LLC, as issuer, the guarantors signatory thereto, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee, with respect to 5.5% Senior Notes due 2026 and 5.875% Senior Notes due 2029.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000089512621000078/ex10112020-12x31indenture.htm)</u> | 10-K | 001-13726 | 10.11 | 3/1/2021 |  |
| 10.11 | <u>[Joinder Agreement, dated as of February 9, 2021, by and among Chesapeake Energy Corporation and the Guarantors party thereto, with respect to 5.5% Senior Notes due 2026 and 5.875% Senior Notes due 2029.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/0000895126/000089512621000078/ex10122020-12x31purchaseag.htm)</u> | 10-K | 001-13726 | 10.12 | 3/1/2021 |  |
| 10.12 | <u>[First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of February 9, 2021, by and among Chesapeake Energy Corporation, the Guarantors signatory thereto, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee, with respect to 5.5% Senior Notes due 2026 and 5.875% Senior Notes due 2029.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/0000895126/000089512621000078/ex10132020-12x31firstsuppi.htm)</u> | 10-K | 001-13726 | 10.13 | 3/1/2021 |  |
| 10.13† | <u>[Amendment to the Expand Energy Corporation 2021 Long Term Incentive Plan.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000089512625000021/exe-ex1013xamendmenttothee.htm)</u> | 10-K | 001-13726 | 10.13 | 2/26/2025 |  |
| 10.14† | <u>[Form of Executive/Employee Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Expand Energy Corporation 2021 Long Term Incentive Plan.](ex1014-formofexecutiveempl.htm)</u> |  |  |  |  | X |
| 10.15† | <u>[Form of Non-Employee Director Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Expand Energy Corporation 2021 Long Term Incentive Plan.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000089512625000021/exe-ex1015formofnonxemploy.htm)</u> | 10-K | 001-13726 | 10.15 | 2/26/2025 |  |
| 10.16† | <u>[Form of Performance Share Unit Award (Absolute TSR) for Expand Energy Corporation 2021 Long Term Incentive Plan.](ex1016formofpsuagreementab.htm)</u> |  |  |  |  | X |
| 10.17† | <u>[Form of Performance Share Unit Award (Relative TSR) for Expand Energy Corporation 2021 Long Term Incentive Plan.](ex1017formofpsuagreementre.htm)</u> |  |  |  |  | X |
| 10.18† | <u>[Expand Energy Corporation Executive Severance Plan.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000089512625000021/exe-ex1018xexpandenergycor.htm)</u> | 10-K | 001-13726 | 10.18 | 2/26/2025 |  |
| 10.19† | <u>[Form of Participation Agreement pursuant to Expand Energy Corporation Executive Severance Plan.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000089512625000021/exe-ex1019xexpandenergycor.htm)</u> | 10-K | 001-13726 | 10.19 | 2/26/2025 |  |
| 10.20† | <u>[Form of](ex10ormofexecutiveemployee.htm)[Interim Chief Executive Officer](ex10ormofexecutiveemployee.htm)[Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Expand Energy Corporation 2021 Long Term Incentive Plan.](ex10ormofexecutiveemployee.htm)</u> |  |  |  |  | X |

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

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| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| 10.21† | <u>[Form of](ex1021formofexecutivepsuag.htm)[Interim Chief Executive Officer](ex1021formofexecutivepsuag.htm)[Performance Share Unit Award (Absolute TSR) for Expand Energy Corporation 2021 Long Term Incentive Plan.](ex1021formofexecutivepsuag.htm)</u> |  |  |  |  | X |
| 10.22† | <u>[Second Amendment to the Expand Energy Corporation 2021 Long Term Incentive Plan.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000089512625000021/exe-ex1020xsecondamendment.htm)</u> | 10-K | 001-13726 | 10.20 | 2/26/2025 |  |
| 10.23 | <u>[Supplemental Indenture, dated as of November 2, 2021, by and among Chesapeake Energy Corporation, the guarantors party thereto and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as Trustee.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/0000895126/000110465921133037/tm2131688d1_ex4-1.htm)</u> | 8-K | 001-13726 | 4.1 | 11/2/2021 |  |
| 10.24 | <u>[Supplemental Indenture, dated as of November 2, 2021, by and among Chesapeake Energy Corporation, the guarantors party thereto and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/0000895126/000110465921133037/tm2131688d1_ex4-2.htm)</u> | 8-K | 001-13726 | 4.2 | 11/2/2021 |  |
| 10.25 | <u>[Registration Rights Agreement dated March 9, 2022, by and among the Company and The Jan & Trevor Rees-Jones Revocable Trust, Rees-Jones Family Holdings, LP, Chief E&D Participants, LP, and Chief E&D (GP) LLC.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000089512622000036/ex101registrationrightsagr.htm)</u> | 8-K | 001-13726 | 10.1 | 3/9/2022 |  |
| 10.26 | <u>[Registration Rights Agreement dated March 9, 2022, by and among the Company and Radler 2000 Limited Partnership.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000089512622000036/ex102registrationrightsagr.htm)</u> | 8-K | 001-13726 | 10.2 | 3/9/2022 |  |
| 10.27 | <u>[Form of Dealer Manager Agreement in connection with exchange offers for Warrants.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000110465922092589/tm2223522d2_ex10-34.htm)</u> | S-4 | 333-266961 | 10.34 | 8/18/2022 |  |
| 10.28 | <u>[Form of Tender and Support Agreement, dated September 12, 2022, in connection with exchange offers for Warrant.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000110465922099099/tm2223522d6_ex10-35.htm)</u> | S-4/A | 333-266961 | 10.35 | 9/12/2022 |  |
| 10.29† | <u>[Form of Chesapeake Energy Corporation Executive Letter Agreement](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000110465924003344/tm243107d1_ex10-1.htm)</u> | 8-K | 001-13726 | 10.1 | 1/11/2024 |  |
| 10.30† | <u>[Letter Agreement with Chris Lacy, dated October 11, 2024.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000089512625000021/exe-ex1029xformofexecutive.htm)</u> | 10-K | 001-13726 | 10.29 | 2/26/2025 |  |
| 10.31 | <u>[Indenture, dated as of December 2, 2024, by and between Expand Energy Corporation and Regions Bank, as Trustee.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000110465924124578/tm2429756d1_ex4-1.htm)</u> | 8-K | 001-13726 | 4.1 | 12/2/2024 |  |
| 10.32 | <u>[First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of December 2, 2024, by and between Expand Energy Corporation and Regions Bank, as Trustee (including the form of the Notes).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000110465924124578/tm2429756d1_ex4-2.htm)</u> | 8-K | 001-13726 | 4.2 | 12/2/2024 |  |
| 10.33 | <u>[Agreement No. 1 and Borrowing Base Agreement, dated as of April 29, 2024, among Chesapeake Energy Corporation, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent, and the lenders and other parties thereto.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000089512624000108/chk-ex_101x20240630x10q.htm)</u> | 10-Q | 001-13726 | 10.1 | 7/29/2024 |  |
| 10.34 | <u>[Credit Agreement, dated as of December 9, 2022 by and among Expand Energy Corporation (f/k/a Chesapeake Energy Corporation), the lenders from time to time party thereto and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000110465924113482/tm2427195d1_ex10-1.htm)</u> | 8-K | 001-13726 | 10.1 | 11/1/2024 |  |

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

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| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| 10.35 | <u>[Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of September 30, 2025,](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000110465925095028/tm2527435d1_ex10-1.htm)[by and](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000110465925095028/tm2527435d1_ex10-1.htm)[among Expand Energy Corporation, the financial institutions from time to time party thereto](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000110465925095028/tm2527435d1_ex10-1.htm)[as lenders](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000110465925095028/tm2527435d1_ex10-1.htm)[and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000110465925095028/tm2527435d1_ex10-1.htm)</u> | 8-K | 001-13726 | 10.1 | 9/30/2025 |  |
| 10.36† | <u>[Global Supplement to Awards under the Expand Energy Corporation 2021 Long Term Incentive Plan](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000089512625000021/exe-ex1034xglobalsupplemen.htm)</u> | 10-K | 001-13726 | 10.34 | 2/26/2025 |  |
| 19.1 | <u>[Expand Energy Corporation Insider Trading Compliance Policy](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000089512625000021/exe-ex_191xinsidertradingp.htm)</u> | 10-K | 001-13726 | 19.1 | 2/26/2025 |  |
| 21 | <u>[Subsidiaries of Expand Energy Corporation.](exe-ex_21x20251231x10k.htm)</u> |  |  |  |  | X |
| 23.1 | <u>[Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.](ex2312025x12x31pwcconsent.htm)</u> |  |  |  |  | X |
| 23.2 | <u>[Consent of Netherland, Sewell & Associates, Inc.](ex23220251231nsaiconsent.htm)</u> |  |  |  |  | X |
| 24 | Power of Attorney (included as a part of the signature pages to this report). |  |  |  |  | X |
| 31.1 | <u>[Michael Wichterich, Chairman of the Board, Interim President and Chief Executive Officer, Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.](exe-ex_311x20251231x10k.htm)</u> |  |  |  |  | X |
| 31.2 | <u>[Brittany Raiford, Vice President, Interim Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.](exe-ex_312x20251231x10k.htm)</u> |  |  |  |  | X |
| 32.1\*\* | <u>[Michael Wichterich, Chairman of the Board, Interim President and Chief Executive Officer, Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.](exe-ex_321x20251231x10k.htm)</u> |  |  |  |  | X |
| 32.2\*\* | <u>[Brittany Raiford, Vice President, Interim Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.](exe-ex_322x20251231x10k.htm)</u> |  |  |  |  | X |
| 95.1 | <u>[Mine Safety Disclosures](ex951minesafetydisclosures.htm)</u> |  |  |  |  | X |
| 97.1 | <u>[Expand Energy Corporation Clawback Policy](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/895126/000089512625000021/exe-ex_971xclawbackpolicyx.htm)</u> | 10-K | 001-13726 | 97.1 | 2/26/2025 |  |
| 99.1 | <u>[Audit Letter of Netherland, Sewell & Associates, Inc.](ex99110-k20251231nsaireport.htm)</u> |  |  |  |  | X |
| 101 INS | Inline XBRL Instance Document - the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document. |  |  |  |  | X |
| 101 SCH | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document. |  |  |  |  | X |
| 101 CAL | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document. |  |  |  |  | X |
| 101 DEF | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document. |  |  |  |  | X |

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**<u>[**TABLE OF CONTENTS**](#i95324dec4c0b4b7c92b7966854e5a1c1_7)</u>**

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| 101 LAB | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Labels Linkbase Document. | X |
| 101 PRE | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document. | X |
| 104 | Cover Page Interactive Data file (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101). | X |
| \* | Schedules have been omitted pursuant to Item 601(a)(5) of Regulation S-K. The registrant hereby undertakes to furnish supplemental copies of any of the omitted schedules upon request by the SEC. | Schedules have been omitted pursuant to Item 601(a)(5) of Regulation S-K. The registrant hereby undertakes to furnish supplemental copies of any of the omitted schedules upon request by the SEC. |
| \*\* | Furnished herewith. |  |
| † | Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement. | Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement. |
| PLEASE NOTE: Pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, we have filed or incorporated by reference the agreements referenced above as exhibits to this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The agreements have been filed to provide investors with information regarding their respective terms. The agreements are not intended to provide any other factual information about Expand Energy Corporation or its business or operations. In particular, the assertions embodied in any representations, warranties and covenants contained in the agreements may be subject to qualifications with respect to knowledge and materiality different from those applicable to investors and may be qualified by information in confidential disclosure schedules not included with the exhibits. These disclosure schedules may contain information that modifies, qualifies and creates exceptions to the representations, warranties and covenants set forth in the agreements. Moreover, certain representations, warranties and covenants in the agreements may have been used for the purpose of allocating risk between the parties, rather than establishing matters as facts. In addition, information concerning the subject matter of the representations, warranties and covenants may have changed after the date of the respective agreement, which subsequent information may or may not be fully reflected in our public disclosures. Accordingly, investors should not rely on the representations, warranties and covenants in the agreements as characterizations of the actual state of facts about Expand Energy Corporation or its business or operations on the date hereof. | PLEASE NOTE: Pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, we have filed or incorporated by reference the agreements referenced above as exhibits to this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The agreements have been filed to provide investors with information regarding their respective terms. The agreements are not intended to provide any other factual information about Expand Energy Corporation or its business or operations. In particular, the assertions embodied in any representations, warranties and covenants contained in the agreements may be subject to qualifications with respect to knowledge and materiality different from those applicable to investors and may be qualified by information in confidential disclosure schedules not included with the exhibits. These disclosure schedules may contain information that modifies, qualifies and creates exceptions to the representations, warranties and covenants set forth in the agreements. Moreover, certain representations, warranties and covenants in the agreements may have been used for the purpose of allocating risk between the parties, rather than establishing matters as facts. In addition, information concerning the subject matter of the representations, warranties and covenants may have changed after the date of the respective agreement, which subsequent information may or may not be fully reflected in our public disclosures. Accordingly, investors should not rely on the representations, warranties and covenants in the agreements as characterizations of the actual state of facts about Expand Energy Corporation or its business or operations on the date hereof. | PLEASE NOTE: Pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, we have filed or incorporated by reference the agreements referenced above as exhibits to this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The agreements have been filed to provide investors with information regarding their respective terms. The agreements are not intended to provide any other factual information about Expand Energy Corporation or its business or operations. In particular, the assertions embodied in any representations, warranties and covenants contained in the agreements may be subject to qualifications with respect to knowledge and materiality different from those applicable to investors and may be qualified by information in confidential disclosure schedules not included with the exhibits. These disclosure schedules may contain information that modifies, qualifies and creates exceptions to the representations, warranties and covenants set forth in the agreements. Moreover, certain representations, warranties and covenants in the agreements may have been used for the purpose of allocating risk between the parties, rather than establishing matters as facts. In addition, information concerning the subject matter of the representations, warranties and covenants may have changed after the date of the respective agreement, which subsequent information may or may not be fully reflected in our public disclosures. Accordingly, investors should not rely on the representations, warranties and covenants in the agreements as characterizations of the actual state of facts about Expand Energy Corporation or its business or operations on the date hereof. |

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Item 16.** | ***Form 10-K Summary*** |

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Not applicable.

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**Signatures**

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) 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.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION | EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION |
| Date: February 18, 2026 | By: | /s/ MICHAEL A. WICHTERICH |
|  |  | Michael A. Wichterich |
|  |  | *Chairman of the Board, Interim President and Chief Executive Officer* |

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POWER OF ATTORNEY

Each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Michael A. Wichterich his true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any or all amendments to this Annual Report on Form 10-K, and to file the same, with all, exhibits thereto and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorney-in-fact and agent full power and authority to do and perform each, and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, or the substitute or substitutes of any or all of them, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Signature** | **Capacity** | **Date** |
| /s/ MICHAEL A. WICHTERICH | Chairman of the Board, Interim President and Chief Executive Officer <br>(Principal Executive Officer) | February 18, 2026 |
| **Michael A. Wichterich** | Chairman of the Board, Interim President and Chief Executive Officer <br>(Principal Executive Officer) | February 18, 2026 |
| /s/ BRITTANY RAIFORD | Vice President, Interim Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer <br>(Principal Financial Officer) | February 18, 2026 |
| **Brittany Raiford** | Vice President, Interim Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer <br>(Principal Financial Officer) | February 18, 2026 |
| /s/ GREGORY M. LARSON | Vice President - Accounting & Controller<br>(Principal Accounting Officer) | February 18, 2026 |
| **Gregory M. Larson** | Vice President - Accounting & Controller<br>(Principal Accounting Officer) | February 18, 2026 |
| /s/ TIMOTHY S. DUNCAN | Director | February 18, 2026 |
| **Timothy S. Duncan** | Director | February 18, 2026 |
| /s/ BENJAMIN C. DUSTER, IV | Director | February 18, 2026 |
| **Benjamin C. Duster, IV** | Director | February 18, 2026 |
| /s/ SARAH A. EMERSON | Director | February 18, 2026 |
| **Sarah A. Emerson** | Director | February 18, 2026 |
| /s/ MATTHEW M. GALLAGHER | Director | February 18, 2026 |
| **Matthew M. Gallagher** | Director | February 18, 2026 |
| /s/ JOHN D. GASS | Director | February 18, 2026 |
| **John D. Gass** | Director | February 18, 2026 |
| /s/ SYLVESTER P. JOHNSON IV | Director | February 18, 2026 |
| **Sylvester P. Johnson IV** | Director | February 18, 2026 |
| /s/ CATHERINE A. KEHR | Director | February 18, 2026 |
| **Catherine A. Kehr** | Director | February 18, 2026 |
| /s/ SHAMEEK KONAR | Director | February 18, 2026 |
| **Shameek Konar** | Director | February 18, 2026 |
| /s/ BRIAN STECK | Director | February 18, 2026 |
| **Brian Steck** | Director | February 18, 2026 |

---

## Exhibit 10.14

**Exhibit 10.14**

**RESTRICTED STOCK UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT FOR<br>EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION<br><u>LONG TERM INCENTIVE PLAN</u>**

THIS RESTRICTED STOCK UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT (the "Agreement") entered into as of the grant date set forth on the attached Notice of Grant of Restricted Stock Units and Award Agreement (the "Notice"), by and between Expand Energy Corporation, an Oklahoma corporation (the "Company"), and the participant named on the Notice (the "Participant");

W I T N E S S E T H:

WHEREAS, the Participant is an Employee, and it is important to the Company that the Participant be encouraged to remain an Employee;

WHEREAS, the Company has previously adopted the Expand Energy Corporation 2021 Long Term Incentive Plan effective as of February 9, 2021, as amended, restated or otherwise modified from time to time (the "Plan"); and

WHEREAS, the Company has awarded the Participant Restricted Stock Units under the Plan, as set forth on the Notice, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the mutual promises and covenants herein contained, the Participant and the Company agree as follows:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>The Plan</u>. The Plan, a copy of which has been made available to the Participant, is hereby incorporated by reference herein and made a part hereof for all purposes, and when taken with this Agreement shall govern the rights of the Participant and the Company with respect to the Award (as defined below). Any capitalized terms used but not defined in this Agreement have the same meanings given to them in the Plan.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Grant of Award</u>. The Company hereby awards to the Participant the number of Restricted Stock Units set forth in the Notice, on the terms and conditions set forth herein and in the Plan (the "Award"). Each Restricted Stock Unit granted pursuant to this Award gives the Participant the right to receive payment, upon satisfaction of the vesting conditions set forth in the Notice and this Agreement, of one share of Common Stock in the manner set forth in Section 5 below.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Vesting and Forfeiture</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Vesting</u>. Subject to Sections 3(c)-(d), Restricted Stock Units will vest in accordance with the vesting schedule set forth in the Notice based on the

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Participant's continuous employment with or service to the Company, a Subsidiary or an Affiliated Entity.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Forfeiture</u>. In the event the Participant ceases to be an Employee prior to all Restricted Stock Units becoming vested, then any unvested Restricted Stock Units, and any dividends related thereto, shall be absolutely forfeited on the date of termination of service and the Participant shall have no further interest therein of any kind whatsoever.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Acceleration on Death, Disability, Retirement or Involuntary</u> <u>Termination</u>. This Award shall become fully vested upon the Participant's date of termination if the Participant's termination occurs by reason of the Participant's death. The Committee may also, in its discretion, waive the vesting requirements or permit continued vesting of the Restricted Stock Units in the event of the Participant's Disability or termination of service due to retirement or involuntary termination (as determined by the Committee in its sole discretion).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Acceleration on Termination Without Cause or for Good Reason Following a Change of Control.</u> This Award shall become fully vested if the Participant's service is terminated by the Company without Cause or by the Participant for Good Reason, in each case, within the 12-month period following the effective date of a Change of Control (the "Protection Period"). For purposes of this Agreement, "Good Reason" shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in any employment, service or similar agreement between the Company, a Subsidiary or an Affiliated Entity and the Participant; provided, that, if there is no such agreement or the agreement does not provide for a definition of "Good Reason", "Good Reason" shall mean the occurrence of one of the following events: (i) elimination of the Participant's job position or material reduction in duties and/or reassignment of the Participant to a new position of materially less authority; (ii) a material reduction in the Participant's base salary; or (iii) a requirement that the Participant relocate to a location outside of a fifty (50) mile radius of the location of the Participant's office or principal base of operation immediately prior to the effective date of a Change of Control. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Participant will not be deemed to have terminated for Good Reason unless (A) the Participant provides written notice to the Company of the existence of one of the conditions described above within ninety (90) days after the Participant has knowledge of the initial existence of the condition, (B) the Company fails to remedy the condition so identified within thirty (30) days after receipt of such notice (if capable of correction), (C) the Participant provides a notice of termination to the Company within thirty (30) days of the expiration of the Company's period to remedy the condition specifying an effective date for the Participant's termination, and (D) the effective date of the Participant's termination of employment is within ninety (90) days after the Participant provides written notice to the Company of the existence of the condition referred to in clause (A).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Acceleration on Termination Without Cause Outside of the Protection Period.</u> If the Participant's service is terminated by the Company without Cause other than during the Protection Period, a pro rata portion of this Award shall vest as follows: the number of Restricted Stock Units that vest shall be equal to (1) the number of Restricted Stock Units subject to this Award multiplied by (2) a fraction (a) the

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numerator of which equals the number of days that the Participant has provided continuous service with the Company, a Subsidiary or an Affiliated Entity during the period from the Effective Date through the date of the Participant's termination of employment and (b) the denominator of which equals the number of days during the period from the Effective Date through the last vesting date applicable to this Award, such result of (1) and (2) less (3) the number of Restricted Stock Units that have already vested as of the the date of the Participant's termination of employment in accordance with the vesting schedule set forth in the Notice. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Section 3(e) shall not apply if the Participant has not been employed by the Company, a Subsidiary or an Affiliated Entity for at least one (1) calendar year as of the date the Participant's service is terminated by the Company without Cause.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Nontransferability of Award</u>. A Restricted Stock Unit is not transferable other than by will or the laws of descent and distribution. Any attempted sale, assignment, transfer, pledge, hypothecation or other disposition of, or the levy of execution, attachment or similar process upon, a Restricted Stock Unit contrary to the provisions hereof shall be void and ineffective, shall give no right to any purported transferee, and may, at the sole discretion of the Committee, result in forfeiture of the Restricted Stock Unit(s) involved in such attempt.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Payment</u>. Payment shall be made in the form of an issuance to the Participant of shares of Common Stock equal to the number of vested Restricted Stock Units. Such issuance shall be made to the Participant with respect to a Restricted Stock Unit within sixty (60) days following the vesting date of such Restricted Stock Unit as set forth in the Notice. Provided, that, with respect to non-409A RSUs only, in the event of accelerated vesting in accordance with Section 3, distribution shall be made within sixty (60) days following such accelerated vesting date.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Dividends Equivalents</u>. In the event that the Company declares and pays a dividend in respect of its outstanding shares of Common Stock and, on the record date for such dividend, the Participant holds Restricted Stock Units granted pursuant to this Agreement that have not been settled, the Company shall record the amount of such dividend in a bookkeeping account and pay to the Participant an amount in cash equal to the cash dividends the Participant would have received if the Participant was the holder of record, as of such record date, of a number of shares of Common Stock equal to the number of Restricted Stock Units held by the Participant that have not been settled as of such record date, such payment to be made on the date that shares of Common Stock are issued to the Participant in respect of the Restricted Stock Units in accordance with Section 5 (the "Dividend Equivalents"). For purposes of clarity, if the Restricted Stock Units (or any portion thereof) are forfeited by the Participant pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, then the Participant shall also forfeit the Dividend Equivalents, if any, accrued with respect to such forfeited Restricted Stock Units. No interest will accrue on the Dividend Equivalents between the declaration and payment of the applicable dividends and the settlement of the Dividend Equivalents.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Withholding</u>. The Company may make such provision as it may deem appropriate for the withholding of any applicable federal, state or local taxes that it determines it may be obligated to withhold or pay in connection with the Restricted

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Stock Units. Required withholding taxes as determined by the Company associated with this Award must be paid in cash. Provided, however, the Committee may require the Participant to pay such withholding taxes by directing the Company to withhold from the Award the number of shares of Common Stock having a Fair Market Value on the date of payment equal to the amount of required withholding taxes. The Company in its sole discretion may also withhold any required taxes from Dividend Equivalents paid on the Restricted Stock Units.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Amendments</u>. This Award Agreement may be amended by a written agreement signed by the Company and the Participant; provided that the Committee may modify the terms of this Award Agreement without the consent of the Participant in any manner that is not adverse to the Participant.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;9.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Securities Law Restrictions</u>. Payment of this Award shall not be made in shares of Common Stock unless such issuance is in compliance with the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Act"), and any other applicable securities law, or pursuant to an exemption therefrom. If deemed necessary by the Company to comply with the Act or any applicable laws or regulations relating to the sale of securities, the Participant at the time of payment and as a condition imposed by the Company, shall represent, warrant and agree that the shares of Common Stock subject to the Award are being acquired for investment and not with any present intention to resell the same and without a view to distribution, and the Participant shall, upon the request of the Company, execute and deliver to the Company an agreement to such a fact. The Participant acknowledges that any stock certificate representing Common Stock acquired under such circumstances will be issued with a restricted securities legend.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Protection of Business</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Non-Solicitation</u>. The Participant covenants that during the term of his/her employment and for an eighteen (18) month period immediately following the termination of his/her employment for whatever reason, the Participant will neither directly nor indirectly induce or attempt to induce any employee of the Company to terminate his or her employment to go to work for any other entity or third party. The Participant further agrees that during his/her employment hereunder, and for a period of one (1) year thereafter, the Participant shall not directly solicit or contact any established client or customer of the Company with a view to inducing or encouraging such established client or customer to discontinue or curtail any business relationship with the Company. The Participant further agrees that he/she will not directly request or advise any established clients, customers or suppliers of the Company to withdraw, curtail or cancel their business with the Company.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Non-Disclosure of Confidential and Proprietary Information</u>. The Participant recognizes that, as a result of his/her employment, he/she will have access to confidential information, trade secrets, proprietary methods and other data which is the property of and integral to the operation and success of the Company and therefore agrees to be bound by the provisions of this Agreement, which the parties agree and acknowledge to be reasonable. The Participant acknowledges that he/she will obtain unique benefits from his/her employment and the provisions contained in this

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Agreement are reasonably necessary to protect the Company's legitimate business interests, which include, among other things, the substantial relationships between the Company and its clients, referral sources, employees, customers and vendors as well as the goodwill established with these parties over a protracted period of time. The Participant agrees that he/she will not divulge to any person; use to the detriment of the Company; or use in any business competitive with or similar to any business of the Company, any of the Company's trade secrets and/or the Company's confidential and proprietary information at any time during the term of the Participant's employment or thereafter. A trade secret shall include any formula, pattern, device or compilation of information used by the Company in its business. Trade secrets as well as confidential and proprietary information shall also include, without limitation, internal well valuations, compilation of documents necessary to prepare well valuations, geological data and interpretation of geological data obtained, expectations concerning well profitability, production information, test results, economic projections, financial reports, income statements, balance sheets, general ledgers, accounts receivable, business plans, contracts with customers, suppliers and affiliated companies, the identity of customers and suppliers, and information reflecting their interests, preferences, credit-worthiness, risk characteristics, likely receptivity to solicitation for participation in various transactions, as well as any other business information obtained by the Participant, during the course of employment.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing in this Agreement shall prohibit or restrict the Participant from lawfully: (i) initiating communications directly with, cooperating with, providing information to, causing information to be provided to, or otherwise assisting in an investigation by, any governmental authority regarding a possible violation of any law; (ii) responding to any inquiry or legal process directed to the Participant from any such governmental authority; (iii) testifying, participating or otherwise assisting in any action or proceeding by any such governmental authority relating to a possible violation of law; or (iv) making any other disclosures that are protected under the whistleblower provisions of any applicable law. Additionally, pursuant to the federal Defend Trade Secrets Act of 2016, an individual shall not be held criminally or civilly liable under any federal or state trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret that: (A) is made (1) in confidence to a federal, state or local government official, either directly or indirectly, or to an attorney and (2) solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law; (B) is made to the individual's attorney in relation to a lawsuit for retaliation against the individual for reporting a suspected violation of law; or (C) is made in a complaint or other document filed in a lawsuit or proceeding, if such filing is made under seal. Nothing in this Agreement requires the Participant to obtain prior authorization before engaging in any conduct described in this paragraph, or to notify the Company that the Participant has engaged in any such conduct.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;11.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Participant Misconduct; Compensation Recovery</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Notwithstanding anything in the Plan or this Agreement to the contrary, the Committee shall have the authority to determine that in the event of serious misconduct by the Participant (including violations of this Agreement, employment agreements, confidentiality or other proprietary matters) or any activity of the Participant

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in competition with the business of the Company or any Subsidiary or Affiliated Entity, the Award may be cancelled, in whole or in part, whether or not vested. The determination of whether the Participant has engaged in a serious breach of conduct or any activity in competition with the business of the Company or any Subsidiary or Affiliated Entity shall be determined by the Committee in good faith and in its sole discretion.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Award made pursuant to this Agreement is subject to recovery pursuant to the Company's compensation recovery policy then in effect. To the extent required by applicable laws, rules, regulations or securities exchange listing requirements and the Company's compensation recovery policy then in effect, the Company shall have the right, and shall take all actions necessary, to recover cash or shares of Common Stock paid to the Participant pursuant to this Award.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;12.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Notices</u>. All notices or other communications relating to the Plan and this Agreement as it relates to the Participant shall be in electronic or written form. If in writing, such notices shall be deemed to have been made (a) if personally delivered in return for a receipt, (b) if mailed, by regular U.S. mail, postage prepaid, by the Company to the Participant at his last known address evidenced on the payroll records of the Company or (c) if provided electronically, provided to the Participant at his/her e-mail address specified in the Company's or its Affiliated Entity's records or as other specified pursuant to and in accordance with the Committee's applicable administrative procedures.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;13.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Binding Effect and Governing Law</u>. This Agreement shall be (i) binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective heirs, successors and assigns except as may be limited by the Plan and (ii) governed and construed under the laws of the State of Oklahoma.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;14.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Captions</u>. The captions of specific provisions of this Agreement are for convenience and reference only, and in no way define, describe, extend or limit the scope of this Agreement or the intent of any provision hereof.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;15.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Counterparts</u>. This Agreement may be executed in any number of identical counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original for all purposes, but all of which taken together shall form but one agreement.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;16.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Code Section 409A.</u>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>General</u>. This Agreement and the Restricted Stock Units granted hereunder are intended to comply with, or otherwise be exempt from, Code Section 409A. The Agreement and the Restricted Stock Units shall be administered, interpreted, and construed in a manner consistent with Code Section 409A or an exemption therefrom. Should any provision of the Plan or the Agreement be found not to comply with, or otherwise be exempt from, the provisions of Code Section 409A, such provision shall be modified and given effect (retroactively if necessary), in the sole discretion of the Committee, and without the consent of the Participant, in such manner as the

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Committee determines to be necessary or appropriate to comply with, or to effectuate an exemption from, Code Section 409A. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company makes no representations that the payments and benefits provided under the Plan or this Agreement comply with Code Section 409A and in no event shall the Company be liable for all or any portion of any taxes, penalties, interest or other expenses that may be incurred by the Participant on account of non-compliance with Code Section 409A. The Participant acknowledges that there may be adverse tax consequences upon the vesting or settlement of the Restricted Stock Units or the disposition of the underlying shares of Common Stock and that the Participant has been advised, and hereby is advised, to consult a tax advisor prior to such vesting, settlement or disposition.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Restrictions on 409A RSUs</u>. Other provisions of this Agreement notwithstanding, in the case of any Restricted Stock Units that constitute a "deferral of compensation" under Code Section 409A ("409A RSUs"), the following restrictions shall apply:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*Separation from Service*. Any payment in settlement of the 409A RSUs that is triggered by a termination of employment hereunder will occur only at such time as the Participant has had a "separation from service" within the meaning of Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(h).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*Six-Month Delay Rule*. The "six-month delay rule" will apply to 409A RSUs if the following four conditions exist:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Participant has a separation from service (within the meaning of Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(h));

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A payment is triggered by the separation from service (but not due to death);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Participant is a "specified employee" under Code Section 409A; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The payment in settlement of the 409A RSUs would otherwise occur within six months after the separation from service.

If the six-month delay rule applies, payment in settlement of 409A RSUs shall instead occur on the first business day after the date that is six months following the Participant's separation from service (or death, if earlier), with interest from the date such payment would otherwise have been made at the short-term applicable federal rate, compounded semi-annually, as determined under Section 1274 of the Code, for the month in which payment would have been made but for the delay in payment. During the six-month delay period, accelerated payment will be permitted in the event of the Participant's death and for no other reason (including no acceleration upon a Change of Control) except to the extent permitted under Code Section 409A.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*Change of Control Rule*. Any payment in settlement of 409A RSUs triggered by a Change of Control will be made only if, in connection with the Change of Control, there occurs a change in the ownership of the Company, a change in the effective control of the Company, or a change in ownership of a substantial portion of the assets of the Company as all such terms are defined in Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-3(i)(5). In the event payment in settlement of 409A RSUs is not allowed by operation of this subparagraph (iii), the payment in settlement of the 409A RSUs will be made within sixty (60) days of the earlier to occur of (A) the applicable vesting date set forth in the Notice regardless of the fact that vesting has been accelerated under the Agreement as a result of the Change of Control, or (B) the occurrence of a permissible time or event that could trigger a payment without violating Code Section 409A.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Other Compliance Provisions</u>. The following provisions apply to Restricted Stock Units (including, if so specified, non-409A RSUs):

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The settlement of 409A RSUs may not be accelerated by the Company except to the extent permitted under Code Section 409A.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Any restriction imposed on 409A RSUs hereunder or under the terms of other documents solely to ensure compliance with Code Section 409A shall not be applied to a Restricted Stock Unit that is not a "deferral of compensation" under Code Section 409A.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If any mandatory term required for 409A RSUs or non- 409A RSUs to avoid tax penalties under Code Section 409A is not otherwise explicitly provided under this document or other applicable documents, such term is hereby incorporated by reference and fully applicable as though set forth at length herein.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iv)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Each vesting tranche of Restricted Stock Units set forth in the Notice shall be deemed a separate payment for purposes of Code Section 409A.

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**Notice of Grant of Restricted Stock Units and Award Agreement**

Expand Energy Corporation<br>6100 North Western Avenue<br>Oklahoma City, OK 73118<br>ID: 73-1395733

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Name:** | **Award Number:** | |
| | **Plan:** | 2021 LTIP |
| | ID: | |

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Effective [__________, 20__] (the "Effective Date"), you have been granted an award of _________ Restricted Stock Units. These Restricted Stock Units will vest on the date(s) shown below.

The Award will vest in increments on the vesting date(s) shown.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| Restricted Stock Units | Vesting Date |
| _______________ | [_____________, 20__] |
| _______________ | [_____________, 20__] |
| _______________ | [_____________, 20__] |

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**Acceptance**. You are required to accept the terms and conditions set forth in this Notice, the Agreement and the Plan, all of which are made a part of this document in order for you to receive the Award granted to you hereunder. Any capitalized terms used but not defined in this Notice have the same meanings given to them in the Agreement or the Plan. By your signature and the Company's signature below, you and the Company agree that this award is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of the Plan and the Agreement, all of which are attached and made a part of this document.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| _____________________________________ | _____________________________ |
| Expand Energy Corporation | Date |
| _____________________________________ | _____________________________ |
| [NAME] | Date |

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## Exhibit 10.16

**Exhibit 10.16**

**PERFORMANCE SHARE UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT FOR <br>EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION<br><u>LONG TERM INCENTIVE PLAN</u>**

**<u>(Absolute TSR)</u>**

THIS PERFORMANCE SHARE UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT (the "Agreement") entered into as of the grant date set forth on the attached Notice of Grant of Performance Share Units and Award Agreement (the "Notice"), by and between Expand Energy Corporation, an Oklahoma corporation (the "Company"), and the participant named on the Notice (the "Participant");

W I T N E S S E T H:

WHEREAS, the Participant is receiving the Performance Share Units in respect of the Participant's services as an Employee, and it is important to the Company that the Participant be encouraged to remain an Employee and to incentivize the Participant to promote the long-term success of the Company;

WHEREAS, the Company has previously adopted the Expand Energy Corporation 2021 Long Term Incentive Plan effective as of February 9, 2021, as amended, restated or otherwise modified from time to time (the "Plan"); and

WHEREAS, the Company has awarded the Participant Performance Share Units under the Plan (which are a subcategory of Performance Shares under the Plan), as set forth on the Notice, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the mutual promises and covenants herein contained, the Participant and the Company agree as follows:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>The Plan</u>. The Plan, a copy of which has been made available to the Participant, is hereby incorporated by reference herein and made a part hereof for all purposes, and when taken with this Agreement shall govern the rights of the Participant and the Company with respect to the Award (as defined below). Any capitalized terms used but not defined in this Agreement have the same meanings given to them in the Plan.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Grant of Award</u>. The Company hereby awards to the Participant the number of Performance Share Units set forth in the Notice, on the terms and conditions set forth herein and in the Plan (the "Award"). Each Performance Share Unit granted pursuant to this Award gives the Participant the right to receive payment, following the satisfaction of the vesting conditions set forth in the Notice and this Agreement, of one share of Common Stock in the manner set forth in Section 5 below.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Earning, Vesting and Forfeiture</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Earning and Vesting</u>. The Performance Share Units will become earned and vested as set forth in the Notice based on the Company's achievement of the performance goal set forth in the Notice and the Participant's continued employment through the third anniversary of the Grant Date.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Forfeiture</u>. Except as otherwise provided in this Section 3, in the event the Participant ceases to be an Employee prior to the third anniversary of the Grant Date, then all of the Performance Share Units, regardless of whether they have become earned, and any Dividend Equivalents related thereto, shall be immediately forfeited without consideration.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Acceleration on Death, Disability, Retirement or Involuntary Termination</u>. This Award shall become vested upon the termination of the Participant's employment due to the Participant's death as follows: (i) if such death occurs prior to the end of the Performance Period, then the target number of Performance Share Units shall vest or (ii) if such death occurs after the end of the Performance Period, then the number of Performance Share Units earned based on actual performance shall vest. The Committee may also, in its discretion, waive the service-based vesting requirements or permit continued vesting of the Performance Share Units in the event of the Participant's Disability or termination of service due to retirement or involuntary termination (as determined by the Committee in its sole discretion).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Acceleration on Termination Without Cause or for Good Reason Following a Change of Control</u>. This Award shall become fully vested based on actual performance measured as provided in the Notice if the Participant's service is terminated by the Company without Cause or by the Participant for Good Reason, in each case, within the 12-month period following the effective date of a Change of Control (the "Protection Period"). For purposes of this Agreement, "Good Reason" shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in any employment, service or similar agreement between the Company, a Subsidiary or an Affiliated Entity and the Participant; provided, that, if there is no such agreement or the agreement does not provide for a definition of "Good Reason", "Good Reason" shall mean the occurrence of one of the following events: (i) elimination of the Participant's job position or material reduction in duties and/or reassignment of the Participant to a new position of materially less authority; (ii) a material reduction in the Participant's base salary; or (iii) a requirement that the Participant relocate to a location outside of a fifty (50) mile radius of the location of the Participant's office or principal base of operation immediately prior to the effective date of a Change of Control. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Participant will not be deemed to have terminated for Good Reason unless (A) the Participant provides written notice to the Company of the existence of one of the conditions described above within ninety (90) days after the Participant has knowledge of the initial existence of the condition, (B) the Company fails to remedy the condition so identified within thirty (30) days after receipt of such notice (if capable of correction), (C) the

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Participant provides a notice of termination to the Company within thirty (30) days of the expiration of the Company's period to remedy the condition specifying an effective date for the Participant's termination, and (D) the effective date of the Participant's termination of employment is within ninety (90) days after the Participant provides written notice to the Company of the existence of the condition referred to in clause (A).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Acceleration on Termination Without Cause Outside of the Protection Period</u>. If the Participant's service is terminated by the Company without Cause other than during the Protection Period, a pro rata portion of this Award shall vest as follows: the number of Performance Share Units that vest shall be equal to (1) the number of Performance Share Units earned based on the actual performance measured as provided in the Notice multiplied by (2) a fraction (a) the numerator of which equals the number of days that the Participant has provided continuous service with the Company, a Subsidiary or an Affiliated Entity from the first day of the Performance Period through the date of the Participant's termination of employment and (b) the denominator of which equals the number of days during the Performance Period. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Section 3(e) shall not apply if the Participant has not been employed by the Company, a Subsidiary or an Affiliated Entity for at least one (1) calendar year as of the date the Participant's service is terminated by the Company without Cause. For the avoidance of doubt, the Performance Share Units that vest pursuant to this Section 3(e) shall be settled within sixty (60) days following the date the Company determines the achievement of the performance metrics.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Nontransferability of Award</u>. A Performance Share Unit is not transferable other than by will or the laws of descent and distribution. Any attempted sale, assignment, transfer, pledge, hypothecation or other disposition of, or the levy of execution, attachment or similar process upon, a Performance Share Unit contrary to the provisions hereof shall be void and ineffective, shall give no right to any purported transferee, and may, at the sole discretion of the Committee, result in forfeiture of the Performance Share Unit(s) involved in such attempt.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Payment</u>. Payment shall be made in the form of an issuance to the Participant of shares of Common Stock equal to the number of vested Performance Share Units within sixty (60) days following the vesting date of such Performance Share Unit.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Dividends</u> <u>Equivalents</u>. In the event that the Company declares and pays a dividend in respect of its outstanding shares of Common Stock and, on the record date for such dividend, the Participant holds Performance Share Units granted pursuant to this Agreement that have not been settled, the Company shall record the amount of such dividend in a bookkeeping account and pay to the Participant an amount in cash equal to the cash dividends the Participant would have received if the Participant was the holder of record, as of such record date, of a number of shares of Common Stock equal to the number of Performance Share Units held by the Participant that have not been settled as of such record date, such payment to be made on the

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date that shares of Common Stock are issued to the Participant in respect of the Performance Share Units in accordance with Section 5 (the "Dividend Equivalents"). For purposes of clarity, if the Performance Share Units (or any portion thereof) are forfeited by the Participant pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, then the Participant shall also forfeit the Dividend Equivalents, if any, accrued with respect to such forfeited Performance Share Units. No interest will accrue on the Dividend Equivalents between the declaration and payment of the applicable dividends and the settlement of the Dividend Equivalents.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Withholding</u>. The Company may make such provision as it may deem appropriate for the withholding of any applicable federal, state or local taxes that it determines it may be obligated to withhold or pay in connection with the Performance Share Units. Required withholding taxes as determined by the Company associated with this Award must be paid in cash. Provided, however, the Committee may require the Participant to pay such withholding taxes by directing the Company to withhold from the Award the number of shares of Common Stock having a Fair Market Value on the date of payment equal to the amount of required withholding taxes. The Company in its sole discretion may also withhold any required taxes from Dividend Equivalents paid on the Performance Share Units.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Amendments</u>. This Award Agreement may be amended by a written agreement signed by the Company and the Participant; provided that the Committee may modify the terms of this Award Agreement without the consent of the Participant in any manner that is not adverse to the Participant.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;9.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Securities Law Restrictions</u>. Payment of this Award shall not be made in shares of Common Stock unless such issuance is in compliance with the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Act"), and any other applicable securities law, or pursuant to an exemption therefrom. If deemed necessary by the Company to comply with the Act or any applicable laws or regulations relating to the sale of securities, the Participant at the time of payment and as a condition imposed by the Company, shall represent, warrant and agree that the shares of Common Stock subject to the Award are being acquired for investment and not with any present intention to resell the same and without a view to distribution, and the Participant shall, upon the request of the Company, execute and deliver to the Company an agreement to such a fact. The Participant acknowledges that any stock certificate representing Common Stock acquired under such circumstances will be issued with a restricted securities legend.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Non-Disclosure of Confidential and Proprietary Information</u>. The Participant recognizes that, as a result of his/her employment, he/she will have access to confidential information, trade secrets, proprietary methods and other data which is the property of and integral to the operation and success of the Company and therefore agrees to be bound by the provisions of this Agreement, which the parties agree and acknowledge to be reasonable. The Participant acknowledges that he/she will obtain unique benefits from his/her employment and the provisions contained in this

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Agreement are reasonably necessary to protect the Company's legitimate business interests, which include, among other things, the substantial relationships between the Company and its clients, referral sources, employees, customers and vendors as well as the goodwill established with these parties over a protracted period of time. The Participant agrees that he/she will not divulge to any person; use to the detriment of the Company; or use in any business competitive with or similar to any business of the Company, any of the Company's trade secrets and/or the Company's confidential and proprietary information at any time during the term of the Participant's employment or thereafter. A trade secret shall include any formula, pattern, device or compilation of information used by the Company in its business. Trade secrets as well as confidential and proprietary information shall also include, without limitation, internal well valuations, compilation of documents necessary to prepare well valuations, geological data and interpretation of geological data obtained, expectations concerning well profitability, production information, test results, economic projections, financial reports, income statements, balance sheets, general ledgers, accounts receivable, business plans, contracts with customers, suppliers and affiliated companies, the identity of customers and suppliers, and information reflecting their interests, preferences, credit-worthiness, risk characteristics, likely receptivity to solicitation for participation in various transactions, as well as any other business information obtained by the Participant, during the course of employment.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing in this Agreement shall prohibit or restrict the Participant from lawfully: (i) initiating communications directly with, cooperating with, providing information to, causing information to be provided to, or otherwise assisting in an investigation by, any governmental authority regarding a possible violation of any law; (ii) responding to any inquiry or legal process directed to the Participant from any such governmental authority; (iii) testifying, participating or otherwise assisting in any action or proceeding by any such governmental authority relating to a possible violation of law; or (iv) making any other disclosures that are protected under the whistleblower provisions of any applicable law. Additionally, pursuant to the federal Defend Trade Secrets Act of 2016, an individual shall not be held criminally or civilly liable under any federal or state trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret that: (A) is made (1) in confidence to a federal, state or local government official, either directly or indirectly, or to an attorney and (2) solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law; (B) is made to the individual's attorney in relation to a lawsuit for retaliation against the individual for reporting a suspected violation of law; or (C) is made in a complaint or other document filed in a lawsuit or proceeding, if such filing is made under seal. Nothing in this Agreement requires the Participant to obtain prior authorization before engaging in any conduct described in this paragraph, or to notify the Company that the Participant has engaged in any such conduct.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;11.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Participant Misconduct; Compensation Recovery</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Notwithstanding anything in the Plan or this Agreement to the contrary, the Committee shall have the authority to determine that in the event of serious misconduct by the Participant (including violations of this Agreement, employment agreements, confidentiality or other proprietary matters) or any activity of the Participant in competition with the business of the Company or any Subsidiary or Affiliated Entity, the Award may be cancelled, in whole or in part, whether or not vested. The determination of whether the Participant has engaged in a serious breach of conduct or any activity in competition with the business of the Company or any Subsidiary or Affiliated Entity shall be determined by the Committee in good faith and in its sole discretion.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Award made pursuant to this Agreement is subject to recovery pursuant to the Company's compensation recovery policy then in effect. To the extent required by applicable laws, rules, regulations or securities exchange listing requirements and the Company's compensation recovery policy then in effect, the Company shall have the right, and shall take all actions necessary, to recover cash or shares of Common Stock paid to the Participant pursuant to this Award.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;12.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Notices</u>. All notices or other communications relating to the Plan and this Agreement as it relates to the Participant shall be in electronic or written form. If in writing, such notices shall be deemed to have been made (a) if personally delivered in return for a receipt, (b) if mailed, by regular U.S. mail, postage prepaid, by the Company to the Participant at his last known address evidenced on the payroll records of the Company or (c) if provided electronically, provided to the Participant at his/her e-mail address specified in the Company's or its Affiliated Entity's records or as other specified pursuant to and in accordance with the Committee's applicable administrative procedures.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;13.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Binding Effect and Governing Law</u>. This Agreement shall be (i) binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective heirs, successors and assigns except as may be limited by the Plan and (ii) governed and construed under the laws of the State of Oklahoma.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;14.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Captions</u>. The captions of specific provisions of this Agreement are for convenience and reference only, and in no way define, describe, extend or limit the scope of this Agreement or the intent of any provision hereof.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;15.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Counterparts</u>. This Agreement may be executed in any number of identical counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original for all purposes, but all of which taken together shall form but one agreement.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;16.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Company Recoupment of Awards</u>. The Participant's rights with respect to this Award shall in all events be subject to (a) any right that the Company may have under any Company recoupment policy or other agreement or arrangement

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with the Participant, and (b) any right or obligation that the Company may have regarding the clawback of "incentive-based compensation" under Section 10D of the Exchange Act and any applicable rules and regulations promulgated thereunder from time to time by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission or any stock exchange on which the Common Stock may be listed.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;17.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Code Section 409A</u>. This Agreement and the Award are intended to comply with, or otherwise be exempt from, Section 409A of the Code ("Section 409A"). This Agreement and the Award shall be administered, interpreted, and construed in a manner consistent with Section 409A or an exemption therefrom. Should any provision of this Agreement or the Award be found not to comply with, or otherwise be exempt from, the provisions of Section 409A, such provision shall be modified and given effect (retroactively if necessary), in the sole discretion of the Committee, and without the consent of the Participant, in such manner as the Committee determines to be necessary or appropriate to comply with, or to effectuate an exemption from, Section 409A. Without limiting the foregoing and notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, to the extent required in order to avoid accelerated taxation, additional taxes or tax penalties under Section 409A, amounts that would otherwise be payable and benefits that would otherwise be provided pursuant to this Agreement during the six-month period immediately following the Participant's separation from service shall instead be paid on the first business day after the date that is six months following the Participant's termination date (or death, if earlier), with interest from the date such amounts would otherwise have been paid at the short-term applicable federal rate, compounded semi-annually, as determined under Section 1274 of the Code, for the month in which payment would have been made but for the delay in payment required to avoid the imposition of accelerated taxation, additional taxes or tax penalties on the Participant under Section 409A. In the event the Award under this Agreement is determined to be subject to Section 409A, any payment triggered by a Change of Control will be made only if, in connection with the Change of Control, there occurs a change in the ownership of the Company, a change in the effective control of the Company, or a change in ownership of a substantial portion of the assets of the Company as all such terms are defined in Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-3(i)(5). In the event payment is not allowed by operation of the immediately preceding sentence, payment will be made within sixty (60) days of the earlier to occur of (A) the applicable payment date set forth in the Notice or (B) the occurrence of a permissible time or event that could trigger a payment without violating Section 409A. Any payments to be made under this Agreement upon a termination of employment shall only be made if such termination of employment constitutes a "separation from service" under Section 409A. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company makes no representations that the payments and benefits provided under this Agreement comply with Section 409A and in no event shall the Company or any of its Affiliated Entities be liable for all or any portion of any taxes, penalties, interest or other expenses that may be incurred by the Participant on account of non-compliance with Section 409A.

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**Notice of Grant of Performance Share Units and Award Agreement**

Expand Energy Corporation

6100 North Western Avenue

Oklahoma City, OK 73118

ID: 73-1395733

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| Name: | **Award Number:** | |
| | **Plan:** | 2021 LTIP |
| | ID: | |

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Effective _______, 20__ (the "Grant Date"), you have been granted a target number of _________________ Performance Share Units. These Performance Share Units will become earned and vested as follows:

<u>Determination of Earned Performance Share Units</u>:

Subject to earlier forfeiture in Section 3(b) of the Award Agreement, the number of your Performance Share Units that become earned shall be determined based on the annualized absolute total stockholder return ("ATSR") during the period beginning on December 31, 20__ and ending on December 31, 20__ (the "Performance Period").

The Company's ATSR, as set forth below, shall determine the percentage of your target number of Performance Share Units that are earned. For ATSR performance between the values listed in the table below, the number of Performance Share Units that become earned shall be determined by straight-line interpolation. The Committee will review, analyze and certify the achievement of the Company's performance under the ATSR goal for the Performance Period, and will determine whether the ATSR performance requirement for your Performance Share Units has been satisfied in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

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**Company ATSR Performance and Payout Schedule**

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **ATSR** | **Percentage of Target Performance-Share Units Earned** |
| Less than 0% | 0% |
| 0% | 40% |
| 5% | 80% |
| 10% | 120% |
| 15% | 160% |
| 20% or greater | 200% |

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All unearned Performance Share Units that are outstanding as of the date immediately following the last day of the Performance Period shall be forfeited and cancelled for no consideration if they do not become earned as set forth above.

<u>Vesting of Performance Share Units</u>:

The earned Performance Share Units will vest upon the third anniversary of the Grant Date provided that you remain an Employee through such date, except as otherwise provided in Section 3 of the Agreement.

**Determination of ATSR**

The ATSR for the Performance Period is determined as follows:

ATSR = [(EP + CD)/BP)^(1/3)] - 1, where

Ending Price (EP) – equals the Company's Fourth Quarter VWAP for the period ending on December 31, 20__. In the event that a Change of Control occurs during the Performance Period, the Ending Price shall be determined by the Committee.

Beginning Price (BP) – equals the Company's Fourth Quarter VWAP for the period ending on December 31, 20__.

Cash Dividends (CD) – equals the total of all cash dividends paid on a share of Common Stock during the Performance Period.

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As used herein, "Fourth Quarter VWAP" means, as of any date of determination, the volume-weighted average price of a share of Common Stock as displayed under the heading "Bloomberg VWAP" on Bloomberg page "EXEVWAP" (or its equivalent successor if such page is not available) for the Trading Days occurring during the fourth quarter of the applicable calendar year (or if such volume-weighted average price is unavailable, the market value of a share of Common Stock during such period, determined using a volume-weighted average method by a nationally recognized independent investment banking firm retained for this purpose by the Company).

As used herein, "Trading Day" means a day on which (a) trading in the Common Stock generally occurs on NASDAQ or, if the Common Stock is not then listed on NASDAQ, on the principal securities exchange on which the Common Stock is then listed or, if the Common Stock is not then listed on a securities exchange, on the principal other market on which the Common Stock is then traded; and (b) a Fourth Quarter VWAP for the Common Stock is available on such securities exchange or market, but if the Common Stock is not so listed or traded, "Trading Day" means mean any day except a Saturday, Sunday or other day on which commercial banks in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma are authorized or required by law to be closed.

**Acceptance**. You are required to accept the terms and conditions set forth in this Notice, the Agreement and the Plan, all of which are made a part of this document in order for you to receive the Award granted to you hereunder. Any capitalized terms used but not defined in this Notice have the same meanings given to them in the Agreement or the Plan. By your signature and the Company's signature below, you and the Company agree that this award is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of the Plan and the Agreement, all of which are attached and made a part of this document.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| Expand Energy Corporation | Date |
| Name | Date |

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## Exhibit 10.17

**Exhibit 10.17**

**PERFORMANCE SHARE UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT FOR <br>EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION<br><u>LONG TERM INCENTIVE PLAN</u>**

**<u>(Relative TSR)</u>**

THIS PERFORMANCE SHARE UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT (the "Agreement") entered into as of the grant date set forth on the attached Notice of Grant of Performance Share Units and Award Agreement (the "Notice"), by and between Expand Energy Corporation, an Oklahoma corporation (the "Company"), and the participant named on the Notice (the "Participant");

W I T N E S S E T H:

WHEREAS, the Participant is receiving the Performance Share Units in respect of the Participant's services as an Employee, and it is important to the Company that the Participant be encouraged to remain an Employee and to incentivize the Participant to promote the long-term success of the Company;

WHEREAS, the Company has previously adopted the Expand Energy Corporation 2021 Long Term Incentive Plan effective as of February 9, 2021, as amended, restated or otherwise modified from time to time (the "Plan"); and

WHEREAS, the Company has awarded the Participant Performance Share Units under the Plan (which are a subcategory of Performance Shares under the Plan), as set forth on the Notice, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the mutual promises and covenants herein contained, the Participant and the Company agree as follows:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>The Plan</u>. The Plan, a copy of which has been made available to the Participant, is hereby incorporated by reference herein and made a part hereof for all purposes, and when taken with this Agreement shall govern the rights of the Participant and the Company with respect to the Award (as defined below). Any capitalized terms used but not defined in this Agreement have the same meanings given to them in the Plan.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Grant of Award</u>. The Company hereby awards to the Participant the number of Performance Share Units set forth in the Notice, on the terms and conditions set forth herein and in the Plan (the "Award"). Each Performance Share Unit granted pursuant to this Award gives the Participant the right to receive payment, following the satisfaction of the vesting conditions set forth in the Notice and this Agreement, of one share of Common Stock in the manner set forth in Section 5 below.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Earning, Vesting and Forfeiture</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Earning and Vesting</u>. The Performance Share Units will become earned and vested as set forth in the Notice based on the Company's achievement of the performance goal set forth in the Notice and the Participant's continued employment through the third anniversary of the Grant Date.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Forfeiture</u>. Except as otherwise provided in this Section 3, in the event the Participant ceases to be an Employee prior to the third anniversary of the Grant Date, then all of the Performance Share Units, regardless of whether they have become earned, and any Dividend Equivalents related thereto, shall be immediately forfeited without consideration.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Acceleration on Death, Disability, Retirement or Involuntary Termination</u>. This Award shall become vested upon the termination of the Participant's employment due to the Participant's death as follows: (i) if such death occurs prior to the end of the Performance Period, then the target number of Performance Share Units shall vest or (ii) if such death occurs after the end of the Performance Period, then the number of Performance Share Units earned based on actual performance shall vest. The Committee may also, in its discretion, waive the service-based vesting requirements or permit continued vesting of the Performance Share Units in the event of the Participant's Disability or termination of service due to retirement or involuntary termination (as determined by the Committee in its sole discretion).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Acceleration on Termination Without Cause or for Good Reason Following a Change of Control</u>. This Award shall become fully vested based on actual performance measured through the date of the Participant's termination if the Participant's service is terminated by the Company without Cause or by the Participant for Good Reason, in each case, within the 12-month period following the effective date of a Change of Control (the "Protection Period"). For purposes of this Agreement, "Good Reason" shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in any employment, service or similar agreement between the Company, a Subsidiary or an Affiliated Entity and the Participant; provided, that, if there is no such agreement or the agreement does not provide for a definition of "Good Reason", "Good Reason" shall mean the occurrence of one of the following events: (i) elimination of the Participant's job position or material reduction in duties and/or reassignment of the Participant to a new position of materially less authority; (ii) a material reduction in the Participant's base salary; or (iii) a requirement that the Participant relocate to a location outside of a fifty (50) mile radius of the location of the Participant's office or principal base of operation immediately prior to the effective date of a Change of Control. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Participant will not be deemed to have terminated for Good Reason unless (A) the Participant provides written notice to the Company of the existence of one of the conditions described above within ninety (90) days after the Participant has knowledge of the initial existence of the condition, (B) the Company fails to remedy the condition so identified within thirty (30) days after receipt of such notice (if capable of correction), (C) the

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Participant provides a notice of termination to the Company within thirty (30) days of the expiration of the Company's period to remedy the condition specifying an effective date for the Participant's termination, and (D) the effective date of the Participant's termination of employment is within ninety (90) days after the Participant provides written notice to the Company of the existence of the condition referred to in clause (A).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Acceleration on Termination Without Cause Outside of the Protection Period</u>. If the Participant's service is terminated by the Company without Cause other than during the Protection Period, a pro rata portion of this Award shall vest as follows:the number of Performance Share Units that vest shall be equal to (1) the number of Performance Share Units earned based on the actual performance measured as provided in the Notice multiplied by (2) a fraction (a) the numerator of which equals the number of days that the Participant has provided continuous service with the Company, a Subsidiary or an Affiliated Entity from the first day of the Performance Period through the date of the Participant's termination of employment and (b) the denominator of which equals the number of days during the Performance Period. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Section 3(e) shall not apply if the Participant has not been employed by the Company, a Subsidiary or an Affiliated Entity for at least one (1) calendar year as of the date the Participant's service is terminated by the Company without Cause. For the avoidance of doubt, the Performance Share Units that vest pursuant to this Section 3(e) shall be settled within sixty (60) days following the date the Company determines the achievement of the performance metrics.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Nontransferability of Award</u>. A Performance Share Unit is not transferable other than by will or the laws of descent and distribution. Any attempted sale, assignment, transfer, pledge, hypothecation or other disposition of, or the levy of execution, attachment or similar process upon, a Performance Share Unit contrary to the provisions hereof shall be void and ineffective, shall give no right to any purported transferee, and may, at the sole discretion of the Committee, result in forfeiture of the Performance Share Unit(s) involved in such attempt.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Payment</u>. Payment shall be made in the form of an issuance to the Participant of shares of Common Stock equal to the number of vested Performance Share Units within sixty (60) days following the vesting date of such Performance Share Unit.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Dividends</u> <u>Equivalents</u>. In the event that the Company declares and pays a dividend in respect of its outstanding shares of Common Stock and, on the record date for such dividend, the Participant holds Performance Share Units granted pursuant to this Agreement that have not been settled, the Company shall record the amount of such dividend in a bookkeeping account and pay to the Participant an amount in cash equal to the cash dividends the Participant would have received if the Participant was the holder of record, as of such record date, of a number of shares of Common Stock equal to the number of Performance Share Units held by the Participant that have not been settled as of such record date, such payment to be made on the

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date that shares of Common Stock are issued to the Participant in respect of the Performance Share Units in accordance with Section 5 (the "Dividend Equivalents"). For purposes of clarity, if the Performance Share Units (or any portion thereof) are forfeited by the Participant pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, then the Participant shall also forfeit the Dividend Equivalents, if any, accrued with respect to such forfeited Performance Share Units. No interest will accrue on the Dividend Equivalents between the declaration and payment of the applicable dividends and the settlement of the Dividend Equivalents.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Withholding</u>. The Company may make such provision as it may deem appropriate for the withholding of any applicable federal, state or local taxes that it determines it may be obligated to withhold or pay in connection with the Performance Share Units. Required withholding taxes as determined by the Company associated with this Award must be paid in cash. Provided, however, the Committee may require the Participant to pay such withholding taxes by directing the Company to withhold from the Award the number of shares of Common Stock having a Fair Market Value on the date of payment equal to the amount of required withholding taxes. The Company in its sole discretion may also withhold any required taxes from Dividend Equivalents paid on the Performance Share Units.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Amendments</u>. This Award Agreement may be amended by a written agreement signed by the Company and the Participant; provided that the Committee may modify the terms of this Award Agreement without the consent of the Participant in any manner that is not adverse to the Participant.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;9.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Securities Law Restrictions</u>. Payment of this Award shall not be made in shares of Common Stock unless such issuance is in compliance with the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Act"), and any other applicable securities law, or pursuant to an exemption therefrom. If deemed necessary by the Company to comply with the Act or any applicable laws or regulations relating to the sale of securities, the Participant at the time of payment and as a condition imposed by the Company, shall represent, warrant and agree that the shares of Common Stock subject to the Award are being acquired for investment and not with any present intention to resell the same and without a view to distribution, and the Participant shall, upon the request of the Company, execute and deliver to the Company an agreement to such a fact. The Participant acknowledges that any stock certificate representing Common Stock acquired under such circumstances will be issued with a restricted securities legend.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Non-Disclosure of Confidential and Proprietary Information</u>. The Participant recognizes that, as a result of his/her employment, he/she will have access to confidential information, trade secrets, proprietary methods and other data which is the property of and integral to the operation and success of the Company and therefore agrees to be bound by the provisions of this Agreement, which the parties agree and acknowledge to be reasonable. The Participant acknowledges that he/she will obtain unique benefits from his/her employment and the provisions contained in this

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Agreement are reasonably necessary to protect the Company's legitimate business interests, which include, among other things, the substantial relationships between the Company and its clients, referral sources, employees, customers and vendors as well as the goodwill established with these parties over a protracted period of time. The Participant agrees that he/she will not divulge to any person; use to the detriment of the Company; or use in any business competitive with or similar to any business of the Company, any of the Company's trade secrets and/or the Company's confidential and proprietary information at any time during the term of the Participant's employment or thereafter. A trade secret shall include any formula, pattern, device or compilation of information used by the Company in its business. Trade secrets as well as confidential and proprietary information shall also include, without limitation, internal well valuations, compilation of documents necessary to prepare well valuations, geological data and interpretation of geological data obtained, expectations concerning well profitability, production information, test results, economic projections, financial reports, income statements, balance sheets, general ledgers, accounts receivable, business plans, contracts with customers, suppliers and affiliated companies, the identity of customers and suppliers, and information reflecting their interests, preferences, credit-worthiness, risk characteristics, likely receptivity to solicitation for participation in various transactions, as well as any other business information obtained by the Participant, during the course of employment.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing in this Agreement shall prohibit or restrict the Participant from lawfully: (i) initiating communications directly with, cooperating with, providing information to, causing information to be provided to, or otherwise assisting in an investigation by, any governmental authority regarding a possible violation of any law; (ii) responding to any inquiry or legal process directed to the Participant from any such governmental authority; (iii) testifying, participating or otherwise assisting in any action or proceeding by any such governmental authority relating to a possible violation of law; or (iv) making any other disclosures that are protected under the whistleblower provisions of any applicable law. Additionally, pursuant to the federal Defend Trade Secrets Act of 2016, an individual shall not be held criminally or civilly liable under any federal or state trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret that: (A) is made (1) in confidence to a federal, state or local government official, either directly or indirectly, or to an attorney and (2) solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law; (B) is made to the individual's attorney in relation to a lawsuit for retaliation against the individual for reporting a suspected violation of law; or (C) is made in a complaint or other document filed in a lawsuit or proceeding, if such filing is made under seal. Nothing in this Agreement requires the Participant to obtain prior authorization before engaging in any conduct described in this paragraph, or to notify the Company that the Participant has engaged in any such conduct.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;11.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Participant Misconduct; Compensation Recovery</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Notwithstanding anything in the Plan or this Agreement to the contrary, the Committee shall have the authority to determine that in the event of

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serious misconduct by the Participant (including violations of this Agreement, employment agreements, confidentiality or other proprietary matters) or any activity of the Participant in competition with the business of the Company or any Subsidiary or Affiliated Entity, the Award may be cancelled, in whole or in part, whether or not vested. The determination of whether the Participant has engaged in a serious breach of conduct or any activity in competition with the business of the Company or any Subsidiary or Affiliated Entity shall be determined by the Committee in good faith and in its sole discretion.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Award made pursuant to this Agreement is subject to recovery pursuant to the Company's compensation recovery policy then in effect. To the extent required by applicable laws, rules, regulations or securities exchange listing requirements and the Company's compensation recovery policy then in effect, the Company shall have the right, and shall take all actions necessary, to recover cash or shares of Common Stock paid to the Participant pursuant to this Award.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;12.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Notices</u>. All notices or other communications relating to the Plan and this Agreement as it relates to the Participant shall be in electronic or written form. If in writing, such notices shall be deemed to have been made (a) if personally delivered in return for a receipt, (b) if mailed, by regular U.S. mail, postage prepaid, by the Company to the Participant at his last known address evidenced on the payroll records of the Company or (c) if provided electronically, provided to the Participant at his/her e-mail address specified in the Company's or its Affiliated Entity's records or as other specified pursuant to and in accordance with the Committee's applicable administrative procedures.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;13.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Binding Effect and Governing Law</u>. This Agreement shall be (i) binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective heirs, successors and assigns except as may be limited by the Plan and (ii) governed and construed under the laws of the State of Oklahoma.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;14.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Captions</u>. The captions of specific provisions of this Agreement are for convenience and reference only, and in no way define, describe, extend or limit the scope of this Agreement or the intent of any provision hereof.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;15.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Counterparts</u>. This Agreement may be executed in any number of identical counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original for all purposes, but all of which taken together shall form but one agreement.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;16.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Company Recoupment of Awards</u>. The Participant's rights with respect to this Award shall in all events be subject to (a) any right that the Company may have under any Company recoupment policy or other agreement or arrangement with the Participant, and (b) any right or obligation that the Company may have regarding the clawback of "incentive-based compensation" under Section 10D of the Exchange Act and any applicable rules and regulations promulgated thereunder from

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time to time by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission or any stock exchange on which the Common Stock may be listed.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;17.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Code Section 409A</u>. This Agreement and the Award are intended to comply with, or otherwise be exempt from, Section 409A of the Code ("Section 409A"). This Agreement and the Award shall be administered, interpreted, and construed in a manner consistent with Section 409A or an exemption therefrom. Should any provision of this Agreement or the Award be found not to comply with, or otherwise be exempt from, the provisions of Section 409A, such provision shall be modified and given effect (retroactively if necessary), in the sole discretion of the Committee, and without the consent of the Participant, in such manner as the Committee determines to be necessary or appropriate to comply with, or to effectuate an exemption from, Section 409A. Without limiting the foregoing and notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, to the extent required in order to avoid accelerated taxation, additional taxes or tax penalties under Section 409A, amounts that would otherwise be payable and benefits that would otherwise be provided pursuant to this Agreement during the six-month period immediately following the Participant's separation from service shall instead be paid on the first business day after the date that is six months following the Participant's termination date (or death, if earlier), with interest from the date such amounts would otherwise have been paid at the short-term applicable federal rate, compounded semi-annually, as determined under Section 1274 of the Code, for the month in which payment would have been made but for the delay in payment required to avoid the imposition of accelerated taxation, additional taxes or tax penalties on the Participant under Section 409A. In the event the Award under this Agreement is determined to be subject to Section 409A, any payment triggered by a Change of Control will be made only if, in connection with the Change of Control, there occurs a change in the ownership of the Company, a change in the effective control of the Company, or a change in ownership of a substantial portion of the assets of the Company as all such terms are defined in Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-3(i)(5). In the event payment is not allowed by operation of the immediately preceding sentence, payment will be made within sixty (60) days of the earlier to occur of (A) the applicable payment date set forth in the Notice or (B) the occurrence of a permissible time or event that could trigger a payment without violating Section 409A. Any payments to be made under this Agreement upon a termination of employment shall only be made if such termination of employment constitutes a "separation from service" under Section 409A. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company makes no representations that the payments and benefits provided under this Agreement comply with Section 409A and in no event shall the Company or any of its Affiliated Entities be liable for all or any portion of any taxes, penalties, interest or other expenses that may be incurred by the Participant on account of non-compliance with Section 409A.

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**Notice of Grant of Performance Share Units and Award Agreement**

Expand Energy Corporation

6100 North Western Avenue

Oklahoma City, OK 73118

ID: 73-1395733

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| Name: | **Award Number:** | |
| | **Plan:** | 2021 LTIP |
| | ID: | |

---

Effective ________, 20__ (the "Grant Date"), you have been granted a target number of ________ Performance Share Units. These Performance Share Units will become earned and vested as follows:

<u>Determination of Earned Performance Share Units</u>:

Subject to earlier forfeiture in Section 3(b) of the Award Agreement, the number of your Performance Share Units that become earned shall be determined based on the Company's relative total stockholder return ("rTSR"), which measures the Company's TSR (as defined below) as compared to the TSR of the entities or indices in the Company's performance peer group, as listed in Exhibit A to this Notice (the "Peer Group" and each member thereof a "Peer Group Member"), during the period beginning on December 31, 20__ and ending on December 31, 20__ (the "Performance Period").

The Company's rTSR, as set forth below, shall determine the percentage of your target number of Performance Share Units that are earned. For rTSR performance between the values listed in the table below, the number of Performance Share Units that become earned shall be determined by straight-line interpolation. The Committee will review, analyze and certify the achievement of the Company's performance under the rTSR goal for the Performance Period, and will determine whether the rTSR performance requirement for your Performance Share Units has been satisfied in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

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**Company rTSR Performance and Payout Schedule**

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **rTSR** | **Percentage of Target Performance Share Units Earned** |
| 20% or less | 0% |
| 55% | 100% |
| 90% or greater | 200% |

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All unearned Performance Share Units that are outstanding as of the date immediately following the last day of the Performance Period shall be forfeited and cancelled for no consideration if they do not become earned as set forth above.

<u>Vesting of Performance Share Units</u>:

The earned Performance Share Units will vest upon the third anniversary of the Grant Date provided that you remain an Employee through such date, except as otherwise provided in Section 3 of the Agreement.

**Determination of TSR**

The TSR for each Peer Group Member for the Performance Period is determined as follows:

TSR = [(EP + CD)/BP)] - 1, where:

Ending Price (EP) – equals the relevant company or index's Fourth Quarter VWAP for the quarter ending on December 31, 20__. In the event that a Change of Control occurs during the Performance Period, the Ending Price of the Company shall be determined by the Committee.

Beginning Price (BP) – equals the relevant company or index's Fourth Quarter VWAP for the quarter ending on December 31, 20__.

Cash Dividends (CD) – equals the total of all cash dividends paid on a share of the relevant company or index's common stock during the Performance Period. 

For the avoidance of doubt, the TSR calculation for Peer Group Members that are indices will be based on the composite index return for such index.

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As used herein, "Fourth Quarter VWAP" means, as of any date of determination, the volume-weighted average price of a share of the relevant company's common stock or index's composite index return as displayed under the heading "Bloomberg VWAP" on Bloomberg page for the relevant company or index for the Trading Days occurring during the fourth quarter of the applicable calendar year (or if such volume-weighted average price is unavailable, the market value of a share of relevant company's common stock or index's composite index return during such period, determined using a volume-weighted average method by a nationally recognized independent investment banking firm retained for this purpose by the Company).

As used herein, "Trading Day" means a day on which (a) trading in the relevant company or index's common stock generally occurs on the principal securities exchange or other market on which the relevant company or index's common stock is then traded; and (b) a Fourth Quarter VWAP for the relevant company or index's common stock is available on such securities exchange or market.

**Acceptance**. You are required to accept the terms and conditions set forth in this Notice, the Agreement and the Plan, all of which are made a part of this document in order for you to receive the Award granted to you hereunder. Any capitalized terms used but not defined in this Notice have the same meanings given to them in the Agreement or the Plan. By your signature and the Company's signature below, you and the Company agree that this award is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of the Plan and the Agreement, all of which are attached and made a part of this document.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| Expand Energy Corporation | Date |
| Name | Date |

---

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**Exhibit A**

**<u>Peer Group</u>**

**<u>Replacement List</u>**

If, during the first 18 months of the Performance Period, any Peer Group Member is acquired, then the first company or index on the replacement list, in accordance with the order in the table above, that remains publicly traded as of such date shall replace the Peer Group Member. Once the replacement list above is exhausted, the Board may determine additional replacement companies or indexes in its sole discretion.

If, during the Performance Period, a Peer Group Member declares bankruptcy or is no longer publicly traded at the end of the Performance Period, the TSR of such Peer Group Member shall be deemed to be the lowest ranked TSR in the Peer Group (and, if multiple Peer Group Members are no longer publicly traded at the end of the Performance Period or declare bankruptcy during the Performance Period, such Peer Group Members shall be ranked in order of when such delisting or bankruptcy occurs, with earlier bankruptcies and de-listings ranking lower than later bankruptcies, and de-listings). If, during the last 18 months of the Performance Period, any Peer Group Member is involved in a merger or acquisition, then such Peer Group Member will move to the top or the bottom of the ranking, based on whether the applicable Peer Group Member's TSR is greater or less than that for the Company, in each case measured as of the date of the announcement of such merger/acquisition.

## Exhibit 10.20

**Exhibit 10.20**

**RESTRICTED STOCK UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT FOR<br>EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION<br><u>LONG TERM INCENTIVE PLAN</u>**

THIS RESTRICTED STOCK UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT (the "Agreement") entered into as of the grant date set forth on the attached Notice of Grant of Restricted Stock Units and Award Agreement (the "Notice"), by and between Expand Energy Corporation, an Oklahoma corporation (the "Company"), and the participant named on the Notice (the "Participant");

W I T N E S S E T H:

WHEREAS, the Participant is an Employee, and it is important to the Company that the Participant be encouraged to remain an Employee;

WHEREAS, the Company has previously adopted the Expand Energy Corporation 2021 Long Term Incentive Plan effective as of February 9, 2021, as amended, restated or otherwise modified from time to time (the "Plan"); and

WHEREAS, the Company has awarded the Participant Restricted Stock Units under the Plan, as set forth on the Notice, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the mutual promises and covenants herein contained, the Participant and the Company agree as follows:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>The Plan</u>. The Plan, a copy of which has been made available to the Participant, is hereby incorporated by reference herein and made a part hereof for all purposes, and when taken with this Agreement shall govern the rights of the Participant and the Company with respect to the Award (as defined below). Any capitalized terms used but not defined in this Agreement have the same meanings given to them in the Plan.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Grant of Award</u>. The Company hereby awards to the Participant the number of Restricted Stock Units set forth in the Notice, on the terms and conditions set forth herein and in the Plan (the "Award"). Each Restricted Stock Unit granted pursuant to this Award gives the Participant the right to receive payment, upon satisfaction of the vesting conditions set forth in the Notice and this Agreement, of one share of Common Stock in the manner set forth in Section 5 below.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Vesting and Forfeiture</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Vesting</u>. Restricted Stock Units will vest in accordance with the vesting schedule set forth in the Notice based on the Participant's continuous employment with or service to the Company, a Subsidiary or an Affiliated Entity.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Forfeiture</u>. In the event the Participant ceases to be an Employee prior to all Restricted Stock Units becoming vested, then any unvested Restricted Stock Units, and any dividends related thereto, shall be absolutely forfeited on the date of termination of service and the Participant shall have no further interest therein of any kind whatsoever.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Nontransferability of Award</u>. A Restricted Stock Unit is not transferable other than by will or the laws of descent and distribution. Any attempted sale, assignment, transfer, pledge, hypothecation or other disposition of, or the levy of execution, attachment or similar process upon, a Restricted Stock Unit contrary to the provisions hereof shall be void and ineffective, shall give no right to any purported transferee, and may, at the sole discretion of the Committee, result in forfeiture of the Restricted Stock Unit(s) involved in such attempt.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Payment</u>. Payment shall be made in the form of an issuance to the Participant of shares of Common Stock equal to the number of vested Restricted Stock Units. Such issuance shall be made to the Participant with respect to a Restricted Stock Unit within sixty (60) days following the vesting date of such Restricted Stock Unit as set forth in the Notice. Provided, that, with respect to non-409A RSUs only, in the event of accelerated vesting in accordance with Section 3, distribution shall be made within sixty (60) days following such accelerated vesting date.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Dividends Equivalents</u>. In the event that the Company declares and pays a dividend in respect of its outstanding shares of Common Stock and, on the record date for such dividend, the Participant holds Restricted Stock Units granted pursuant to this Agreement that have not been settled, the Company shall record the amount of such dividend in a bookkeeping account and pay to the Participant an amount in cash equal to the cash dividends the Participant would have received if the Participant was the holder of record, as of such record date, of a number of shares of Common Stock equal to the number of Restricted Stock Units held by the Participant that have not been settled as of such record date, such payment to be made on the date that shares of Common Stock are issued to the Participant in respect of the Restricted Stock Units in accordance with Section 5 (the "Dividend Equivalents"). For purposes of clarity, if the Restricted Stock Units (or any portion thereof) are forfeited by the Participant pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, then the Participant shall also forfeit the Dividend Equivalents, if any, accrued with respect to such forfeited Restricted Stock Units. No interest will accrue on the Dividend Equivalents between the declaration and payment of the applicable dividends and the settlement of the Dividend Equivalents.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Withholding</u>. The Company may make such provision as it may deem appropriate for the withholding of any applicable federal, state or local taxes that it determines it may be obligated to withhold or pay in connection with the Restricted

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Stock Units. Required withholding taxes as determined by the Company associated with this Award must be paid in cash. Provided, however, the Committee may require the Participant to pay such withholding taxes by directing the Company to withhold from the Award the number of shares of Common Stock having a Fair Market Value on the date of payment equal to the amount of required withholding taxes. The Company in its sole discretion may also withhold any required taxes from Dividend Equivalents paid on the Restricted Stock Units.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Amendments</u>. This Award Agreement may be amended by a written agreement signed by the Company and the Participant; provided that the Committee may modify the terms of this Award Agreement without the consent of the Participant in any manner that is not adverse to the Participant.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;9.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Securities Law Restrictions</u>. Payment of this Award shall not be made in shares of Common Stock unless such issuance is in compliance with the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Act"), and any other applicable securities law, or pursuant to an exemption therefrom. If deemed necessary by the Company to comply with the Act or any applicable laws or regulations relating to the sale of securities, the Participant at the time of payment and as a condition imposed by the Company, shall represent, warrant and agree that the shares of Common Stock subject to the Award are being acquired for investment and not with any present intention to resell the same and without a view to distribution, and the Participant shall, upon the request of the Company, execute and deliver to the Company an agreement to such a fact. The Participant acknowledges that any stock certificate representing Common Stock acquired under such circumstances will be issued with a restricted securities legend.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Protection of Business</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Non-Solicitation</u>. The Participant covenants that during the term of his/her employment and for an eighteen (18) month period immediately following the termination of his/her employment for whatever reason, the Participant will neither directly nor indirectly induce or attempt to induce any employee of the Company to terminate his or her employment to go to work for any other entity or third party. The Participant further agrees that during his/her employment hereunder, and for a period of one (1) year thereafter, the Participant shall not directly solicit or contact any established client or customer of the Company with a view to inducing or encouraging such established client or customer to discontinue or curtail any business relationship with the Company. The Participant further agrees that he/she will not directly request or advise any established clients, customers or suppliers of the Company to withdraw, curtail or cancel their business with the Company.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Non-Disclosure of Confidential and Proprietary Information</u>. The Participant recognizes that, as a result of his/her employment, he/she will have access to confidential information, trade secrets, proprietary methods and other data which is the property of and integral to the operation and success of the Company and therefore agrees to be bound by the provisions of this Agreement, which the parties agree and acknowledge to be reasonable. The Participant acknowledges that he/she will obtain unique benefits from his/her employment and the provisions contained in this Agreement are reasonably necessary to protect the Company's legitimate business

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interests, which include, among other things, the substantial relationships between the Company and its clients, referral sources, employees, customers and vendors as well as the goodwill established with these parties over a protracted period of time. The Participant agrees that he/she will not divulge to any person; use to the detriment of the Company; or use in any business competitive with or similar to any business of the Company, any of the Company's trade secrets and/or the Company's confidential and proprietary information at any time during the term of the Participant's employment or thereafter. A trade secret shall include any formula, pattern, device or compilation of information used by the Company in its business. Trade secrets as well as confidential and proprietary information shall also include, without limitation, internal well valuations, compilation of documents necessary to prepare well valuations, geological data and interpretation of geological data obtained, expectations concerning well profitability, production information, test results, economic projections, financial reports, income statements, balance sheets, general ledgers, accounts receivable, business plans, contracts with customers, suppliers and affiliated companies, the identity of customers and suppliers, and information reflecting their interests, preferences, credit-worthiness, risk characteristics, likely receptivity to solicitation for participation in various transactions, as well as any other business information obtained by the Participant, during the course of employment.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing in this Agreement shall prohibit or restrict the Participant from lawfully: (i) initiating communications directly with, cooperating with, providing information to, causing information to be provided to, or otherwise assisting in an investigation by, any governmental authority regarding a possible violation of any law; (ii) responding to any inquiry or legal process directed to the Participant from any such governmental authority; (iii) testifying, participating or otherwise assisting in any action or proceeding by any such governmental authority relating to a possible violation of law; or (iv) making any other disclosures that are protected under the whistleblower provisions of any applicable law. Additionally, pursuant to the federal Defend Trade Secrets Act of 2016, an individual shall not be held criminally or civilly liable under any federal or state trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret that: (A) is made (1) in confidence to a federal, state or local government official, either directly or indirectly, or to an attorney and (2) solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law; (B) is made to the individual's attorney in relation to a lawsuit for retaliation against the individual for reporting a suspected violation of law; or (C) is made in a complaint or other document filed in a lawsuit or proceeding, if such filing is made under seal. Nothing in this Agreement requires the Participant to obtain prior authorization before engaging in any conduct described in this paragraph, or to notify the Company that the Participant has engaged in any such conduct.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;11.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Participant Misconduct; Compensation Recovery</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Notwithstanding anything in the Plan or this Agreement to the contrary, the Committee shall have the authority to determine that in the event of serious misconduct by the Participant (including violations of this Agreement, employment agreements, confidentiality or other proprietary matters) or any activity of the Participant in competition with the business of the Company or any Subsidiary or Affiliated Entity,

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the Award may be cancelled, in whole or in part, whether or not vested. The determination of whether the Participant has engaged in a serious breach of conduct or any activity in competition with the business of the Company or any Subsidiary or Affiliated Entity shall be determined by the Committee in good faith and in its sole discretion.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Award made pursuant to this Agreement is subject to recovery pursuant to the Company's compensation recovery policy then in effect. To the extent required by applicable laws, rules, regulations or securities exchange listing requirements and the Company's compensation recovery policy then in effect, the Company shall have the right, and shall take all actions necessary, to recover cash or shares of Common Stock paid to the Participant pursuant to this Award.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;12.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Notices</u>. All notices or other communications relating to the Plan and this Agreement as it relates to the Participant shall be in electronic or written form. If in writing, such notices shall be deemed to have been made (a) if personally delivered in return for a receipt, (b) if mailed, by regular U.S. mail, postage prepaid, by the Company to the Participant at his last known address evidenced on the payroll records of the Company or (c) if provided electronically, provided to the Participant at his/her e-mail address specified in the Company's or its Affiliated Entity's records or as other specified pursuant to and in accordance with the Committee's applicable administrative procedures.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;13.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Binding Effect and Governing Law</u>. This Agreement shall be (i) binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective heirs, successors and assigns except as may be limited by the Plan and (ii) governed and construed under the laws of the State of Oklahoma.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;14.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Captions</u>. The captions of specific provisions of this Agreement are for convenience and reference only, and in no way define, describe, extend or limit the scope of this Agreement or the intent of any provision hereof.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;15.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Counterparts</u>. This Agreement may be executed in any number of identical counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original for all purposes, but all of which taken together shall form but one agreement.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;16.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Code Section 409A.</u>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>General</u>. This Agreement and the Restricted Stock Units granted hereunder are intended to comply with, or otherwise be exempt from, Code Section 409A. The Agreement and the Restricted Stock Units shall be administered, interpreted, and construed in a manner consistent with Code Section 409A or an exemption therefrom. Should any provision of the Plan or the Agreement be found not to comply with, or otherwise be exempt from, the provisions of Code Section 409A, such provision shall be modified and given effect (retroactively if necessary), in the sole discretion of the Committee, and without the consent of the Participant, in such manner as the Committee determines to be necessary or appropriate to comply with, or to

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effectuate an exemption from, Code Section 409A. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company makes no representations that the payments and benefits provided under the Plan or this Agreement comply with Code Section 409A and in no event shall the Company be liable for all or any portion of any taxes, penalties, interest or other expenses that may be incurred by the Participant on account of non-compliance with Code Section 409A. The Participant acknowledges that there may be adverse tax consequences upon the vesting or settlement of the Restricted Stock Units or the disposition of the underlying shares of Common Stock and that the Participant has been advised, and hereby is advised, to consult a tax advisor prior to such vesting, settlement or disposition.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Restrictions on 409A RSUs</u>. Other provisions of this Agreement notwithstanding, in the case of any Restricted Stock Units that constitute a "deferral of compensation" under Code Section 409A ("409A RSUs"), the following restrictions shall apply:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*Separation from Service*. Any payment in settlement of the 409A RSUs that is triggered by a termination of employment hereunder will occur only at such time as the Participant has had a "separation from service" within the meaning of Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(h).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*Six-Month Delay Rule*. The "six-month delay rule" will apply to 409A RSUs if the following four conditions exist:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Participant has a separation from service (within the meaning of Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(h));

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A payment is triggered by the separation from service (but not due to death);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Participant is a "specified employee" under Code Section 409A; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The payment in settlement of the 409A RSUs would otherwise occur within six months after the separation from service.

If the six-month delay rule applies, payment in settlement of 409A RSUs shall instead occur on the first business day after the date that is six months following the Participant's separation from service (or death, if earlier), with interest from the date such payment would otherwise have been made at the short-term applicable federal rate, compounded semi-annually, as determined under Section 1274 of the Code, for the month in which payment would have been made but for the delay in payment. During the six-month delay period, accelerated payment will be permitted in the event of the Participant's death and for no other reason (including no acceleration upon a Change of Control) except to the extent permitted under Code Section 409A.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*Change of Control Rule*. Any payment in settlement of 409A RSUs triggered by a Change of Control will be made only if, in connection with the Change of Control, there occurs a change in the ownership of the Company, a change in the effective control of the Company, or a change in ownership of a substantial portion of the assets of the Company as all such terms are defined in Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-3(i)(5). In the event payment in settlement of 409A RSUs is not allowed by operation of this subparagraph (iii), the payment in settlement of the 409A RSUs will be made within sixty (60) days of the earlier to occur of (A) the applicable vesting date set forth in the Notice regardless of the fact that vesting has been accelerated under the Agreement as a result of the Change of Control, or (B) the occurrence of a permissible time or event that could trigger a payment without violating Code Section 409A.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Other Compliance Provisions</u>. The following provisions apply to Restricted Stock Units (including, if so specified, non-409A RSUs):

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The settlement of 409A RSUs may not be accelerated by the Company except to the extent permitted under Code Section 409A.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Any restriction imposed on 409A RSUs hereunder or under the terms of other documents solely to ensure compliance with Code Section 409A shall not be applied to a Restricted Stock Unit that is not a "deferral of compensation" under Code Section 409A.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If any mandatory term required for 409A RSUs or non-409A RSUs to avoid tax penalties under Code Section 409A is not otherwise explicitly provided under this document or other applicable documents, such term is hereby incorporated by reference and fully applicable as though set forth at length herein.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iv)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Each vesting tranche of Restricted Stock Units set forth in the Notice shall be deemed a separate payment for purposes of Code Section 409A.

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**Notice of Grant of Restricted Stock Units and Award Agreement**

Expand Energy Corporation<br>6100 North Western Avenue<br>Oklahoma City, OK 73118<br>ID: 73-1395733

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Name:** | Mike Wichterich | **Award Number:** | |
| | | **Plan:** | 2021 LTIP |
| | | ID: | |

---

Effective February 9, 2026 (the "Effective Date"), you have been granted an award of 16,856 Restricted Stock Units. These Restricted Stock Units will vest on the later of (i) the one-year anniversary of the Effective Date (the "Anniversary Date"), and (ii) the date that your employment with the Company terminates and you no longer serve as Interim President and Chief Executive Officer (each of (i) and (ii), a "Vesting Date"); <u>provided</u>, <u>however</u>, that in the event of a "Qualifying Termination" (as defined below), the number of Restricted Stock Units that will vest upon the applicable Vesting Date will be equal to (1) the total number of Restricted Stock Units subject to this Award multiplied by (2) a fraction (a) the numerator of which equals the number of days that you served as Interim President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company during the one-year period commencing on the Effective Date and (b) the denominator of which equals 365; <u>provided further</u>, that in no event will less than 4,682 Restricted Stock Units vest upon the applicable Vesting Date in the event of a Qualifying Termination.

A "Qualifying Termination" means a termination of your employment with the Company for a reason other than (i) a termination of your employment by the Company for Cause or (ii) prior to the Anniversary Date, your resignation for any reason.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event your employment with the Company terminates and such termination does not constitute a Qualifying Termination (i.e., your employment is terminated by the Company for Cause at any time or, prior to the Anniversary Date, you resign for any reason), then you will forfeit all of the Restricted Stock Units subject to this Award.

**Acceptance**. You are required to accept the terms and conditions set forth in this Notice, the Agreement and the Plan, all of which are made a part of this document in order for you to receive the Award granted to you hereunder. Any capitalized terms used but not defined in this Notice have the same meanings given to them in the Agreement or the Plan. By your signature and the Company's signature below, you and the Company agree that this award is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of the Plan and the Agreement, all of which are attached and made a part of this document.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| _____________________________________ | _____________________________ |
| Expand Energy Corporation | Date |
| _____________________________________ | _____________________________ |
| Mike Wichterich | Date |

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## Exhibit 10.21

**Exhibit 10.21**

**PERFORMANCE SHARE UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT FOR <br>EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION<br><u>LONG TERM INCENTIVE PLAN</u>**

**<u>(Absolute TSR)</u>**

THIS PERFORMANCE SHARE UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT (the "Agreement") entered into as of the grant date set forth on the attached Notice of Grant of Performance Share Units and Award Agreement (the "Notice"), by and between Expand Energy Corporation, an Oklahoma corporation (the "Company"), and the participant named on the Notice (the "Participant");

W I T N E S S E T H:

WHEREAS, the Participant is receiving the Performance Share Units in respect of the Participant's services as an Employee, and it is important to the Company that the Participant be encouraged to remain an Employee and to incentivize the Participant to promote the long-term success of the Company;

WHEREAS, the Company has previously adopted the Expand Energy Corporation 2021 Long Term Incentive Plan effective as of February 9, 2021, as amended, restated or otherwise modified from time to time (the "Plan"); and

WHEREAS, the Company has awarded the Participant Performance Share Units under the Plan (which are a subcategory of Performance Shares under the Plan), as set forth on the Notice, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the mutual promises and covenants herein contained, the Participant and the Company agree as follows:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>The Plan</u>. The Plan, a copy of which has been made available to the Participant, is hereby incorporated by reference herein and made a part hereof for all purposes, and when taken with this Agreement shall govern the rights of the Participant and the Company with respect to the Award (as defined below). Any capitalized terms used but not defined in this Agreement have the same meanings given to them in the Plan.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Grant of Award</u>. The Company hereby awards to the Participant the number of Performance Share Units set forth in the Notice, on the terms and conditions set forth herein and in the Plan (the "Award"). Each Performance Share Unit granted pursuant to this Award gives the Participant the right to receive payment, following the satisfaction of the vesting conditions set forth in the Notice and this Agreement, of one share of Common Stock in the manner set forth in Section 5 below.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Earning, Vesting and Forfeiture</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Earning and Vesting</u>. The Performance Share Units will become earned and vested as set forth in the Notice based on the Company's achievement of the performance goal set forth in the Notice and the Participant's continued employment through the third anniversary of the Grant Date.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Forfeiture</u>. The Performance Share Units and any Dividend Equivalents related thereto shall be subject to forfeiture without consideration in certain circumstances as set forth in the Notice.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Nontransferability of Award</u>. A Performance Share Unit is not transferable other than by will or the laws of descent and distribution. Any attempted sale, assignment, transfer, pledge, hypothecation or other disposition of, or the levy of execution, attachment or similar process upon, a Performance Share Unit contrary to the provisions hereof shall be void and ineffective, shall give no right to any purported transferee, and may, at the sole discretion of the Committee, result in forfeiture of the Performance Share Unit(s) involved in such attempt.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Payment</u>. Payment shall be made in the form of an issuance to the Participant of shares of Common Stock equal to the number of vested Performance Share Units within sixty (60) days following the vesting date of such Performance Share Unit; <u>provided</u>, <u>however</u>, that if the Performance Share Units vest (in whole or in part) as of the "Anniversary Date" (as defined in the Notice), then the applicable number of shares of Common Stock underlying the vested Performance Share Units shall be issued by no later than March 15, 2027.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Dividends Equivalents</u>. In the event that the Company declares and pays a dividend in respect of its outstanding shares of Common Stock and, on the record date for such dividend, the Participant holds Performance Share Units granted pursuant to this Agreement that have not been settled, the Company shall record the amount of such dividend in a bookkeeping account and pay to the Participant an amount in cash equal to the cash dividends the Participant would have received if the Participant was the holder of record, as of such record date, of a number of shares of Common Stock equal to the number of Performance Share Units held by the Participant that have not been settled as of such record date, such payment to be made on the date that shares of Common Stock are issued to the Participant in respect of the Performance Share Units in accordance with Section 5 (the "Dividend Equivalents"). For purposes of clarity, if the Performance Share Units (or any portion thereof) are forfeited by the Participant pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, then the Participant shall also forfeit the Dividend Equivalents, if any, accrued with respect to such forfeited Performance Share Units. No interest will accrue on the Dividend Equivalents between the declaration and payment of the applicable dividends and the settlement of the Dividend Equivalents.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Withholding</u>. The Company may make such provision as it may deem appropriate for the withholding of any applicable federal, state or local taxes that it determines it may be obligated to withhold or pay in connection with the Performance Share Units. Required withholding taxes as determined by the Company associated with this Award must be paid in cash. Provided, however, the Committee may require the Participant to pay such withholding taxes by directing the Company to withhold from the Award the number of shares of Common Stock having a Fair Market Value on the date of payment equal to the amount of required withholding taxes. The Company in its sole discretion may also withhold any required taxes from Dividend Equivalents paid on the Performance Share Units.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Amendments</u>. This Award Agreement may be amended by a written agreement signed by the Company and the Participant; provided that the Committee may modify the terms of this Award Agreement without the consent of the Participant in any manner that is not adverse to the Participant.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;9.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Securities Law Restrictions</u>. Payment of this Award shall not be made in shares of Common Stock unless such issuance is in compliance with the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Act"), and any other applicable securities law, or pursuant to an exemption therefrom. If deemed necessary by the Company to comply with the Act or any applicable laws or regulations relating to the sale of securities, the Participant at the time of payment and as a condition imposed by the Company, shall represent, warrant and agree that the shares of Common Stock subject to the Award are being acquired for investment and not with any present intention to resell the same and without a view to distribution, and the Participant shall, upon the request of the Company, execute and deliver to the Company an agreement to such a fact. The Participant acknowledges that any stock certificate representing Common Stock acquired under such circumstances will be issued with a restricted securities legend.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Non-Disclosure of Confidential and Proprietary Information</u>. The Participant recognizes that, as a result of his/her employment, he/she will have access to confidential information, trade secrets, proprietary methods and other data which is the property of and integral to the operation and success of the Company and therefore agrees to be bound by the provisions of this Agreement, which the parties agree and acknowledge to be reasonable. The Participant acknowledges that he/she will obtain unique benefits from his/her employment and the provisions contained in this Agreement are reasonably necessary to protect the Company's legitimate business interests, which include, among other things, the substantial relationships between the Company and its clients, referral sources, employees, customers and vendors as well as the goodwill established with these parties over a protracted period of time. The Participant agrees that he/she will not divulge to any person; use to the detriment of the Company; or use in any business competitive with or similar to any business of the Company, any of the Company's trade secrets and/or the Company's confidential and proprietary information at any time during the term of the Participant's employment or thereafter. A trade secret shall include any formula, pattern, device or compilation of information used by the Company in its business. Trade secrets as well as confidential

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and proprietary information shall also include, without limitation, internal well valuations, compilation of documents necessary to prepare well valuations, geological data and interpretation of geological data obtained, expectations concerning well profitability, production information, test results, economic projections, financial reports, income statements, balance sheets, general ledgers, accounts receivable, business plans, contracts with customers, suppliers and affiliated companies, the identity of customers and suppliers, and information reflecting their interests, preferences, credit-worthiness, risk characteristics, likely receptivity to solicitation for participation in various transactions, as well as any other business information obtained by the Participant, during the course of employment.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing in this Agreement shall prohibit or restrict the Participant from lawfully: (i) initiating communications directly with, cooperating with, providing information to, causing information to be provided to, or otherwise assisting in an investigation by, any governmental authority regarding a possible violation of any law; (ii) responding to any inquiry or legal process directed to the Participant from any such governmental authority; (iii) testifying, participating or otherwise assisting in any action or proceeding by any such governmental authority relating to a possible violation of law; or (iv) making any other disclosures that are protected under the whistleblower provisions of any applicable law. Additionally, pursuant to the federal Defend Trade Secrets Act of 2016, an individual shall not be held criminally or civilly liable under any federal or state trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret that: (A) is made (1) in confidence to a federal, state or local government official, either directly or indirectly, or to an attorney and (2) solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law; (B) is made to the individual's attorney in relation to a lawsuit for retaliation against the individual for reporting a suspected violation of law; or (C) is made in a complaint or other document filed in a lawsuit or proceeding, if such filing is made under seal. Nothing in this Agreement requires the Participant to obtain prior authorization before engaging in any conduct described in this paragraph, or to notify the Company that the Participant has engaged in any such conduct.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;11.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Participant Misconduct; Compensation Recovery</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Notwithstanding anything in the Plan or this Agreement to the contrary, the Committee shall have the authority to determine that in the event of serious misconduct by the Participant (including violations of this Agreement, employment agreements, confidentiality or other proprietary matters) or any activity of the Participant in competition with the business of the Company or any Subsidiary or Affiliated Entity, the Award may be cancelled, in whole or in part, whether or not vested. The determination of whether the Participant has engaged in a serious breach of conduct or any activity in competition with the business of the Company or any Subsidiary or Affiliated Entity shall be determined by the Committee in good faith and in its sole discretion.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Award made pursuant to this Agreement is subject to recovery pursuant to the Company's compensation recovery policy then in effect. To the extent required by applicable laws, rules, regulations or securities exchange listing

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requirements and the Company's compensation recovery policy then in effect, the Company shall have the right, and shall take all actions necessary, to recover cash or shares of Common Stock paid to the Participant pursuant to this Award.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;12.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Notices</u>. All notices or other communications relating to the Plan and this Agreement as it relates to the Participant shall be in electronic or written form. If in writing, such notices shall be deemed to have been made (a) if personally delivered in return for a receipt, (b) if mailed, by regular U.S. mail, postage prepaid, by the Company to the Participant at his last known address evidenced on the payroll records of the Company or (c) if provided electronically, provided to the Participant at his/her e-mail address specified in the Company's or its Affiliated Entity's records or as other specified pursuant to and in accordance with the Committee's applicable administrative procedures.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;13.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Binding Effect and Governing Law</u>. This Agreement shall be (i) binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective heirs, successors and assigns except as may be limited by the Plan and (ii) governed and construed under the laws of the State of Oklahoma.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;14.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Captions</u>. The captions of specific provisions of this Agreement are for convenience and reference only, and in no way define, describe, extend or limit the scope of this Agreement or the intent of any provision hereof.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;15.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Counterparts</u>. This Agreement may be executed in any number of identical counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original for all purposes, but all of which taken together shall form but one agreement.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;16.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Company Recoupment of Awards</u>. The Participant's rights with respect to this Award shall in all events be subject to (a) any right that the Company may have under any Company recoupment policy or other agreement or arrangement with the Participant, and (b) any right or obligation that the Company may have regarding the clawback of "incentive-based compensation" under Section 10D of the Exchange Act and any applicable rules and regulations promulgated thereunder from time to time by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission or any stock exchange on which the Common Stock may be listed.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;17.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Code Section 409A</u>. This This Agreement and the Award are intended to comply with, or otherwise be exempt from, Section 409A of the Code ("Section 409A"). This Agreement and the Award shall be administered, interpreted, and construed in a manner consistent with Section 409A or an exemption therefrom. Should any provision of this Agreement or the Award be found not to comply with, or otherwise be exempt from, the provisions of Section 409A, such provision shall be modified and given effect (retroactively if necessary), in the sole discretion of the Committee, and without the consent of the Participant, in such manner as the Committee determines to be necessary or appropriate to comply with, or to effectuate an exemption from, Section 409A. Without limiting the foregoing and notwithstanding anything contained herein to

------

the contrary, to the extent required in order to avoid accelerated taxation, additional taxes or tax penalties under Section 409A, amounts that would otherwise be payable and benefits that would otherwise be provided pursuant to this Agreement during the six-month period immediately following the Participant's separation from service shall instead be paid on the first business day after the date that is six months following the Participant's termination date (or death, if earlier), with interest from the date such amounts would otherwise have been paid at the short-term applicable federal rate, compounded semi-annually, as determined under Section 1274 of the Code, for the month in which payment would have been made but for the delay in payment required to avoid the imposition of accelerated taxation, additional taxes or tax penalties on the Participant under Section 409A. In the event the Award under this Agreement is determined to be subject to Section 409A, any payment triggered by a Change of Control will be made only if, in connection with the Change of Control, there occurs a change in the ownership of the Company, a change in the effective control of the Company, or a change in ownership of a substantial portion of the assets of the Company as all such terms are defined in Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-3(i)(5). In the event payment is not allowed by operation of the immediately preceding sentence, payment will be made within sixty (60) days of the earlier to occur of (A) the applicable payment date set forth in the Notice or (B) the occurrence of a permissible time or event that could trigger a payment without violating Section 409A. Any payments to be made under this Agreement upon a termination of employment shall only be made if such termination of employment constitutes a "separation from service" under Section 409A. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company makes no representations that the payments and benefits provided under this Agreement comply with Section 409A and in no event shall the Company or any of its Affiliated Entities be liable for all or any portion of any taxes, penalties, interest or other expenses that may be incurred by the Participant on account of non-compliance with Section 409A.

------

**Notice of Grant of Performance Share Units and Award Agreement**

Expand Energy Corporation

6100 North Western Avenue

Oklahoma City, OK 73118

ID: 73-1395733

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| Name: | Mike Wichterich | **Award Number:** | |
| | | **Plan:** | 2021 LTIP |
| | | ID: | |

---

Effective February 9, 2026 (the "Effective Date"), you have been granted an Award of 16,856 Performance Share Units. These Performance Share Units will vest on the later of (i) the one-year anniversary of the Effective Date (the "Anniversary Date"), and (ii) the date on which the absolute total stockholder return of the Company ("ATSR") as measured from the Effective Date equals 25% (the "Performance Hurdle") (each of (i) and (ii), a "Vesting Date"); <u>provided</u>, <u>however</u>, that in the event of a "Qualifying Termination" (as defined below), the number of Performance Share Units that will vest upon the applicable Vesting Date will be equal to (1) the total number of Performance Share Units subject to this Award multiplied by (2) a fraction (a) the numerator of which equals the number of days that you served as Interim President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company during the one-year period commencing on the Effective Date and (b) the denominator of which equals 365; <u>provided further</u>, that in no event will less than 4,682 Performance Share Units vest upon the applicable Vesting Date in the event of a Qualifying Termination. For the avoidance of doubt, none of your Performance Share Units shall vest (including in the event of a Qualifying Termination) unless the Performance Hurdle is achieved.

A "Qualifying Termination" means a termination of your employment with the Company for a reason other than (i) a termination of your employment by the Company for Cause or (ii) prior to the Anniversary Date, your resignation for any reason.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event that (i) your employment with the Company terminates and such termination does not constitute a Qualifying Termination (i.e., your employment is terminated by the Company for Cause at any time or, prior to the Anniversary Date, you resign for any reason), or (ii) the Performance Hurdle is not met by the third anniversary of the Effective Date, then in each case you will forfeit all of the Performance Share Units subject to this Award.

The Committee will review, analyze and certify the achievement of the Company's performance under the ATSR goal and will determine whether the ATSR performance requirement for your Performance Share Units has been satisfied in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

------

**Determination of ATSR**

The ATSR is determined as follows:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;ATSR = (EP + CD)/BP) - 1, where

Ending Price (EP) – equals the Company's 60-Day VWAP as of the relevant date of determination.

Beginning Price (BP) – equals the Company's 60-Day VWAP as of the Effective Date.

Cash Dividends (CD) – equals the total of all cash dividends paid on a share of

Common Stock during the period commencing on the Effective Date through the relevant date of determination.

As used herein, "60-Day VWAP" means, as of any date of determination, the volume-weighted average price of a share of Common Stock as displayed under the heading "Bloomberg VWAP" on Bloomberg page "EXEVWAP" (or its equivalent successor if such page is not available) for the 60 consecutive Trading Days immediately preceding such date of determination (or if such volume-weighted average price is unavailable, the market value of a share of Common Stock during such period, determined using a volume-weighted average method by a nationally recognized independent investment banking firm retained for this purpose by the Company).

As used herein, "Trading Day" means a day on which (a) trading in the Common Stock generally occurs on NASDAQ or, if the Common Stock is not then listed on NASDAQ, on the principal securities exchange on which the Common Stock is then listed or, if the Common Stock is not then listed on a securities exchange, on the principal other market on which the Common Stock is then traded; and (b) a 60-Day VWAP for the Common Stock is available on such securities exchange or market, but if the Common Stock is not so listed or traded, "Trading Day" means mean any day except a Saturday, Sunday or other day on which commercial banks in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma are authorized or required by law to be closed.

------

**Acceptance**. You are required to accept the terms and conditions set forth in this Notice, the Agreement and the Plan, all of which are made a part of this document in order for you to receive the Award granted to you hereunder. Any capitalized terms used but not defined in this Notice have the same meanings given to them in the Agreement or the Plan. By your signature and the Company's signature below, you and the Company agree that this award is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of the Plan and the Agreement, all of which are attached and made a part of this document.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Expand Energy Corporation | Date |
| Name: Mike Wichterich | Date |

---

## Ex-21

**Exhibit 21**

**EXPAND ENERGY CORPORATION**

***an Oklahoma Corporation***

**SIGNIFICANT SUBSIDIARIES\***

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Limited Liability Companies** | **State of Organization** |
| Expand Operating LLC | Oklahoma |
| Expand Exploration LLC | Oklahoma |
| Expand Appalachia LLC | Oklahoma |
| Expand Gulf Coast LLC | Oklahoma |
| Expand Energy Marketing LLC | Texas |
| \* In accordance with Regulation S-K Item 601(b)(21), the names of particular subsidiaries that, considered in the aggregate as a single subsidiary, would not constitute a significant subsidiary (as that term is defined in Rule 1-02(w) of Regulation S-X) as of the end of the year covered by this report have been omitted. | \* In accordance with Regulation S-K Item 601(b)(21), the names of particular subsidiaries that, considered in the aggregate as a single subsidiary, would not constitute a significant subsidiary (as that term is defined in Rule 1-02(w) of Regulation S-X) as of the end of the year covered by this report have been omitted. |

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## Exhibit 23.1

**Exhibit 23.1**

**CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM**

We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements on Form S-3 (Nos. 333-283348, 333-263820 and 333-260833) and Form S-8 (Nos. 333-282773, 333-253340 and 333-260834) of Expand Energy Corporation of our report dated February 18, 2026 relating to the financial statements and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, which appears in this Form 10-K.

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

February 18, 2026

## Exhibit 23.2

**Exhibit 23.2**

![nsai.jpg](nsai.jpg)

**<u>CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PETROLEUM ENGINEERS AND GEOLOGISTS</u>**

We hereby consent to the inclusion in this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Expand Energy Corporation for the year ended December 31, 2025 (the "Annual Report") of our audit letter dated January 26, 2026, with respect to estimates of reserves and future net revenue to the Expand Energy Corporation interest, as of December 31, 2025, and to all references to our firm included in the Annual Report.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| | **NETHERLAND, SEWELL & ASSOCIATES, INC.** |
| By: | /s/ Eric J. Stevens |
|  | Eric J. Stevens, P.E. |
|  | President and Chief Operating Officer |

---

Dallas, Texas

February 18, 2026

## Exhibit 31.1

**Exhibit 31.1**

**CERTIFICATION**

I, Michael A. Wichterich, certify that:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1.I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Expand Energy Corporation;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| February 18, 2026 | By: | /s/ MICHAEL A. WICHTERICH |
|  |  | Michael A. Wichterich |
|  |  | *Chairman of the Board, Interim President and Chief Executive Officer* |

---

## Exhibit 31.2

**Exhibit 31.2**

**CERTIFICATION**

I, Brittany Raiford, certify that:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1.I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Expand Energy Corporation;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| February 18, 2026 | By: | /s/ BRITTANY RAIFORD |
|  |  | Brittany Raiford |
|  |  | *Vice President, Interim Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer* |

---

## Exhibit 32.1

**Exhibit 32.1**

**CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350, AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906**

**OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002**

In connection with the Annual Report of Expand Energy Corporation (the "Company") on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the "Report"), I, Michael A. Wichterich, Chairman of the Board, Interim President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to § 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1.The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| February 18, 2026 | By: | /s/ MICHAEL A. WICHTERICH |
|  |  | Michael A. Wichterich |
|  |  | *Chairman of the Board, Interim President and Chief Executive Officer* |

---

## Exhibit 32.2

**Exhibit 32.2**

**CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350, AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906**

**OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002**

In connection with the Annual Report of Expand Energy Corporation (the "Company") on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the "Report"), I, Brittany Raiford, Vice President, Interim Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to § 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1.The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| February 18, 2026 | By: | /s/ BRITTANY RAIFORD |
|  |  | Brittany Raiford |
|  |  | *Vice President, Interim Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer* |

---

## Exhibit 95.1

**Exhibit 95.1**

**Mine Safety Disclosures**

Section 1503(a) of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the "Act") and Item 104 of Regulation S-K (17 CFR 229.104) require certain disclosures by companies required to file periodic reports under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that operate mines regulated under the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 (as amended by the Mine Improvement and New Emergency Response Act of 2006, the "Mine Act").

Geaux Prop LLC ("Geaux Prop") is a wholly owned indirect subsidiary of Expand Energy Corporation ("Expand Energy"). Between March 15, 2024 and October 31, 2024, Geaux Prop acquired surface and sand rights on approximately 700 acres in Red River Parish, Louisiana to construct and operate an in-field sand mine to support Expand Energy's exploration and development activities. Geaux Prop began operating the mine in January 2025 and is subject to regulation by the federal Mine Safety and Health Administration ("MSHA") under the Mine Act. MSHA inspects mining facilities on a regular basis and issues citations and orders when it believes a violation of the Mine Act has occurred.

The MSHA, upon determination that a violation of the Mine Act has occurred, may issue a citation or an order which generally proposes civil penalties or fines upon the mine operator. Citations and orders may be appealed with the potential of reduced or dismissed penalties.

The table below reflects citations, orders, violations and proposed assessments issued to Geaux Prop by MSHA during the year ended December 31, 2025. Due to timing and other factors, the data may not agree with the mine data retrieval systems maintained by MSHA at www.MSHA.gov.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| | **Geaux Prop Sand Mine 16-01618** |
| Section 104 significant and substantial violations |  |
| Section 104(b) orders |  |
| Section 104(d) citations and orders |  |
| Section 110(b)(2) violations |  |
| Section 107(a) orders |  |
| Total dollar value of MSHA proposed assessments | $453 |
| Total number of mining related fatalities |  |
| Received notice of pattern of violations under section 104(e) | No |
| Received notice of potential to have such pattern under section 104(e) | No |
| Legal actions pending before the Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission as of last day of period |  |
| Legal actions instituted during period |  |
| Legal actions resolved during period |  |

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## Exhibit 99.1

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | | **Exhibit 99.1** |
| ![image1.jpg](image1.jpg) | **CHAIRMAN & CEO**<br>RICHARD B. TALLEY, JR.<br>**PRESIDENT & COO**<br>ERIC J. STEVENS | **EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE**<br>ROBERT C. BARG<br>P. SCOTT FROST<br>JOHN G. HATTNER<br>JOSEPH J. SPELLMAN |

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January 26, 2026

Mr. Nick Penner

Expand Energy Corporation

6100 North Western Avenue

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73118

Dear Mr. Penner:

In accordance with your request, we have audited the estimates prepared by Expand Energy Corporation (Expand), as of December 31, 2025, of the proved reserves and future revenue to the Expand interest in certain oil and gas properties located in the United States. It is our understanding that the proved reserves estimates shown herein constitute all of the proved reserves owned by Expand. We have examined the estimates with respect to reserves quantities, reserves categorization, future producing rates, future net revenue, and the present value of such future net revenue, using the definitions set forth in U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Regulation S-X Rule 4-10(a). The estimates of reserves and future revenue have been prepared in accordance with the definitions and regulations of the SEC and, with the exception of the exclusion of future income taxes, conform to the FASB Accounting Standards Codification Topic 932, Extractive Activities—Oil and Gas. We completed our audit on or about the date of this letter. This report has been prepared for Expand's use in filing with the SEC; in our opinion the assumptions, data, methods, and procedures used in the preparation of this report are appropriate for such purpose.

The following table sets forth Expand's estimates of the net reserves and future net revenue, as of December 31, 2025, for the audited properties:

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Net Reserves | Net Reserves | Net Reserves | Future Net Revenue (M$) | Future Net Revenue (M$) |
| | Oil | NGL | Gas | | Present Worth |
| Category | (MBBL) | (MBBL) | (MMCF) | Total | at 10% |
| Proved Developed Producing | 34515.3 | 324365.9 | 15774781.4 | 26539419.6 | 14573430.0 |
| Proved Developed Non-Producing | 519.3 | 4150.0 | 619870.0 | 913794.5 | 473254.0 |
| Proved Undeveloped | 23811.0 | 163441.7 | 6180350.0 | 9549396.0 | 4327523.8 |
| Total Proved | 58845.6 | 491957.6 | 22574999.6 | 37002608.6 | 19374209.0 |
| *<br>Totals may not add because of rounding.* |  |  |  |  |  |

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The oil volumes shown include crude oil and condensate. Oil and natural gas liquids (NGL) volumes are expressed in thousands of barrels (MBBL); a barrel is equivalent to 42 United States gallons. Gas volumes are expressed in millions of cubic feet (MMCF) at standard temperature and pressure bases.

When compared on a well-by-well basis, some of the estimates of Expand are greater and some are less than the estimates of Netherland, Sewell & Associates, Inc. (NSAI). However, in our opinion the estimates shown herein of Expand's reserves and future revenue are reasonable when aggregated at the proved level and have been prepared in accordance with the Standards Pertaining to the Estimating and Auditing of Oil and Gas Reserves Information promulgated by the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE Standards). Additionally, these estimates are within the recommended 10 percent tolerance threshold set forth in the SPE Standards. We are satisfied with the methods and procedures used by Expand in preparing the December 31, 2025, estimates of reserves and future revenue, and we saw nothing of an unusual nature that would cause us to take exception with the estimates, in the aggregate, as prepared by Expand.

 <br> 2100 Ross Avenue, Suite 2200 • Dallas, Texas 75201 • Ph: 214-969-5401 • Fax: 214-969-54111301 McKinney Street, Suite 3200 • Houston, Texas 77010 • Ph: 713-654-4950 • Fax: 713-654-4951 info@nsai-petro.com<br>netherlandsewell.com

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![image.jpg](image.jpg)

Reserves categorization conveys the relative degree of certainty; reserves subcategorization is based on development and production status. The estimates of reserves and future revenue included herein have not been adjusted for risk. Expand's estimates do not include probable or possible reserves that may exist for these properties, nor do they include any value for undeveloped acreage beyond those tracts for which undeveloped reserves have been estimated.

Prices used by Expand are based on the 12-month unweighted arithmetic average of the first-day-of-the-month price for each month in the period January through December 2025. For oil and NGL volumes, the average West Texas Intermediate spot price of $65.34 per barrel is adjusted for quality, transportation fees, and market differentials. For gas volumes, the average Henry Hub spot price of $3.387 per MMBTU is adjusted for energy content, transportation fees, and market differentials. All prices are held constant throughout the lives of the properties. The average adjusted product prices weighted by production over the remaining lives of the properties are $54.84 per barrel of oil, $13.26 per barrel of NGL, and $1.987 per MCF of gas.

Operating costs used by Expand are based on historical operating expense records. Operating costs are limited to direct lease- and field-level costs and Expand's estimate of the portion of its headquarters general and administrative overhead expenses necessary to operate the properties. Operating costs have been divided into per-well costs and per-unit-of-production costs. Capital costs used by Expand are based on authorizations for expenditure and actual costs from recent activity. Capital costs are included as required for tubing installations, workovers, new development wells, and production equipment. Abandonment costs used are Expand's estimates of the costs to abandon the wells and production facilities, net of any salvage value. Operating, capital, and abandonment costs are not escalated for inflation.

The reserves shown in this report are estimates only and should not be construed as exact quantities. Proved reserves are those quantities of oil and gas which, by analysis of engineering and geoscience data, can be estimated with reasonable certainty to be economically producible; probable and possible reserves are those additional reserves which are sequentially less certain to be recovered than proved reserves. Estimates of reserves may increase or decrease as a result of market conditions, future operations, changes in regulations, or actual reservoir performance. In addition to the primary economic assumptions discussed herein, estimates of Expand and NSAI are based on certain assumptions including, but not limited to, that the properties will be developed consistent with current development plans as provided to us by Expand, that the properties will be operated in a prudent manner, that no governmental regulations or controls will be put in place that would impact the ability of the interest owner to recover the reserves, and that projections of future production will prove consistent with actual performance. If the reserves are recovered, the revenues therefrom and the costs related thereto could be more or less than the estimated amounts. Because of governmental policies and uncertainties of supply and demand, the sales rates, prices received for the reserves, and costs incurred in recovering such reserves may vary from assumptions made while preparing these estimates.

Our audit consisted primarily of substantive testing, wherein we conducted a detailed review of all properties. In the conduct of our audit, we have not independently verified the accuracy and completeness of information and data furnished by Expand with respect to ownership interests, oil and gas production, well test data, historical costs of operation and development, product prices, or any agreements relating to current and future operations of the properties and sales of production. However, if in the course of our examination something came to our attention that brought into question the validity or sufficiency of any such information or data, we did not rely on such information or data until we had satisfactorily resolved our questions relating thereto or had independently verified such information or data. Our audit did not include a review of Expand's overall reserves management processes and practices.

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![image.jpg](image.jpg)

We used standard engineering and geoscience methods, or a combination of methods, including performance analysis, volumetric analysis, and analogy, that we considered to be appropriate and necessary to establish the conclusions set forth herein. As in all aspects of oil and gas evaluation, there are uncertainties inherent in the interpretation of engineering and geoscience data; therefore, our conclusions necessarily represent only informed professional judgment.

Supporting data documenting this audit, along with data provided by Expand, are on file in our office. The technical persons primarily responsible for conducting this audit meet the requirements regarding qualifications, independence, objectivity, and confidentiality set forth in the SPE Standards. James D. Berry, a Licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Texas, has been practicing consulting petroleum engineering at NSAI since 2014 and has over 6 years of prior industry experience. William J. Knights, a Licensed Professional Geoscientist in the State of Texas, has been practicing consulting petroleum geoscience at NSAI since 1991 and has over 10 years of prior industry experience. We are independent petroleum engineers, geologists, geophysicists, and petrophysicists; we do not own an interest in these properties nor are we employed on a contingent basis.

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | | Sincerely, | Sincerely, |
| | | **NETHERLAND, SEWELL & ASSOCIATES, INC.**<br>Texas Registered Engineering Firm F-2699 | **NETHERLAND, SEWELL & ASSOCIATES, INC.**<br>Texas Registered Engineering Firm F-2699 |
| | | By: | /s/ Richard B. Talley, Jr. |
| | | | Richard B. Talley, Jr., P.E.<br>Chairman and Chief Executive Officer |
| By: | /s/ James D. Berry | By: | /s/ William J. Knights |
|  | James D. Berry, P.E. 128972<br>Vice President |  | William J. Knights, P.G. 1532<br>Vice President |
| Date Signed: January 26, 2026 | Date Signed: January 26, 2026 | Date Signed: January 26, 2026 | Date Signed: January 26, 2026 |

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JDB:RKL

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