Over the past few months, a long line of U.S. shale companies has begun a “spring cleaning” of their portfolios, according to Rystad Energy. – U.S. onshore shale companies are hiking spending by about 20 percent, while also boosting production guidance. – However, they are getting rid of assets that no longer make sense, focusing instead on “core” acreage. This “optimization” of portfolios, Rystad says, will allow them to grow production while still aiming for positive cash flow. – In the chart above, it is clear that shale companies are disposing of some natural gas assets and focusing on liquids. Market Movers • ConocoPhillips (NYSE: COP) says it has entered into agreements for asset sales of about $250 million in the first quarter. COP also says it will expand its presence in the Austin Chalk paly […]