April 2018
Where do you see the opportunities for growth within the industry in the next 5 years, how is ATB Financial positioned to support this?
In Alberta, we have world-class oil and gas resources. A major growth opportunity is to build out the infrastructure to upgrade and deliver our resources to market. At ATB Financial, we look forward to being a key player in financing these initiatives, as well as the continued development of our oil and gas resources.
What question or industry issue are you looking forward to hearing about at Canada Assembly 2018?
I’d like to hear further conversation about what the Canadian energy industry needs to do to counter current headwinds (the attack on our industry, the exodus of capital, deeply discounted product prices, and the slowing of capital spending due to our inability to deliver products to market in a timely way). I’d also like further conversation about the importance of refining our industry messaging and branding to tell the story of our commitment to responsible development, technological advancements and global leadership.
What game-changing discovery/ project/ technology is currently making waves?
Blockchain, including its potential application for oil and gas contract settlement. In this respect, ATB Financial, in partnership with IBM, is active on a blockchain for oil settlement pilot project.
In what ways can the local industry be encouraged and promoted by the government and by the private sector?
In the current state of affairs, we simply can not do enough to promote the positive factors associated with our industry. I believe that we must continue to encourage discussions, at every level, that put Canada’s long-term economic interests ahead of regional political interests.
What are some of the factors for potential investors to consider when looking at Canada?
Stand back and take a long-term view of our oil and gas resource prospects. Provided we continue to build out key infrastructure, the Canadian energy industry is presently trading at a deep discount and is an attractive prospect for a value investor.
What have been the evolutions in your business in the region/country over recent years?
Major themes have been the collapse in global oil prices, and now Alberta natural gas prices, while at the same time the energy industry is facing record levels of regulation. Companies have little control over these outside forces and have needed to pursue ongoing costs cutting initiatives to survive. As part of this applying technology to reduce costs is an ongoing evolution.
What would you do if you won the lottery?
Ocean-front property in Maui comes to mind.
What was your dream job when you were growing up?
Fire Fighter
What are three things still left on your bucket list?
# 1- An extended trip to Scotland
#2 – Participate in a US BBQ competition
#3 – Win the lottery (see answer #7)
If you could only choose one song to play every time you walked into a room for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Frankly, that would drive me crazy. Variety is the spice of life, especially when it comes to music!
About Kevin Kynoch
With over 20 years of financial services experience, ranging from energy investment to commercial and corporate lending, Kevin is a highly regarded and trusted voice in the world of energy finance. Kevin has fostered relationships with more than 100 clients in the energy industry and arranged deals of all sizes, including those exceeding $1 billion.
Over 75 years, ATB Financial has grown from one small Treasury Branch to become the largest Alberta-based financial institution with assets of $48.5 billion.
Kevin holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Finance from the University of Calgary and is a CFA Charter Holder since 2003.