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Leader reports lower profit ahead of its takeover by Exxon

Leader Natural Resources on Thursday reported a lower firstquarter earnings, weighed down by higher production expenses and weak natural gas costs.

Earlier in the day, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission offered the consent to Exxon Mobil's $60 billion purchase of the company, but disallowed Leader's former CEO, Scott Sheffield, from joining Exxon's board on allegations he attempted to collude with OPEC to raise oil rates.

Sheffield retired as Leader's CEO on Dec. 31, however continues to serve on its board and was because of sit on Exxon's. board when the acquisition closed.

Exxon stated it prepares to close the all-stock offer on Friday,. boosting the largest U.S. oil business's production in the. Permian Basin. Pioneer investors authorized the merger in. February, with a majority ballot in favor of the offer.

Pioneer saw average realized rates of $76.86 per barrel of. oil in the quarter, up 2.3% from a year earlier, however average. recognized prices for gas decreased 51% to $1.87 per thousand cubic. feet (mcf).

Expenses related to oil and gas production rose about 31%.

Net income attributable to common investors for the three. months ended March 31 was $1.1 billion, or $4.57 per share,. compared to earnings of $1.2 billion, or $5 per share, a. year previously.