Quote from AAAintheBeltway:
CHK has 54% debt to cap ratio, which is high for larger cap E&P names, but very manageable. Earliest LT debt is not due until 2013. It has roughly 2.5 the total debt and debt/cap of APA or DVN.
CHK is heavily hedged at much higher prices, so it can handle more leverage than unhedged companies. It's cash flow is far less sensitive to decline in oil/gas prices. It is also growing cash flow at close to double what APA or DVN can do.
Most of CHK properties are in continental US. APA and DVN are global players, adding an element of risk.
I think all three are good choices for someone with the ability to ride the market out. They have assets in the ground that are highly likely to increase in value.
Being hedged at much higher prices means absolutely zilch . . . see XTO and how that stock has been trading given the FACT that 50% of their 2009 production has been sold forward at an average price of $11.96
I don't think that you fully understand the position that CHK is in with regards to their cash flow and financing needs.
Stock is currently trading at $18.60 down yet another 3.80

