EMPIRE PETROLEUM CORP current report, 10 September 2026

Business Context and Reporting Period

Empire Petroleum Corporation (NYSE American: EP) filed a Form 8-K on September 10, 2026, reporting the entry into a material definitive agreement. The filing details the issuance of a promissory note to secure financing for general working capital purposes.

Key Financial Metrics

This filing does not report revenue, profit, cash flow, or operating margins. The primary financial metric disclosed is the creation of a new debt obligation.

  • Principal Amount: $3,250,000
  • Interest Rate: 6% per annum (increases to 9% post-maturity)
  • Maturity Date: March 10, 2028
  • Conversion Feature: Convertible into common stock at $2.838 per share
  • Maximum Dilution: 1,145,173 shares if fully converted

Material Changes

The Company has increased its debt load by $3.25 million through the issuance of the Note to Petroleum Independent & Exploration, LLC ("PIE"). This represents a new direct financial obligation and a potential future equity issuance if the conversion option is exercised. The filing references prior disclosures regarding material relationships with PIE in the 2026 Annual Proxy Statement and Q2 2026 Form 10-Q.

Outlook, Risks, and Unusual Items

Management Commentary: Proceeds are designated for general working capital. The Company intends to seek NYSE American approval for the supplemental listing of underlying shares.

Risks and Contingencies:

  • Default Risk: Upon an Event of Default, all accrued and unpaid interest becomes immediately due.
  • Dilution Risk: Conversion of the note could result in the issuance of approximately 1.15 million shares.
  • Regulatory Risk: The issuance relies on Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933 as an unregistered sale to an accredited investor.

Investor Verification Checklist

  • Verify the specific terms of the "Event of Default" in the full Promissory Note (Exhibit 10).
  • Review the 2026 Annual Proxy Statement and Q2 2026 Form 10-Q for details on the material relationship between Empire Petroleum and PIE.
  • Confirm the Company's current cash position to assess the ability to service the 6% interest or prepay the note without penalty.
  • Monitor the status of the supplemental listing application with NYSE American for the underlying shares.