LINN Energy says that its Board of Directors has approved a 2015 budget which includes a 53% reduction in oil and natural gas capital expenditures to $730 million, from approximately $1.55 billion in 2014, and a reduction of the LINN distribution and LinnCo dividend to $1.25 per unit or share, from the previous level of $2.90 per unit or share, on an annualized basis. LINN expects to fund its total 2015 oil and natural gas capital program, along with the distribution, from internally generated cash flow.

"After careful consideration, LINN's senior management proposed and the Board of Directors approved a 2015 budget that contemplates a significantly lower current crude oil price than in 2014. In order to solidify the Company's financial position and regain a useful cost of capital, we have reduced the oil and natural gas capital budget and distribution while balancing cash flow and spending," said Mark E. Ellis, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer.

Tags: Linn Energy