Major U.S. shale producers are dialing back capital expenditures in key basins even as crude prices remain elevated, prioritizing shareholder returns, debt reduction, and free cash flow over rapid production growth. This capital discipline is creating headwinds for U.S. oil supply expansion at a time when global markets continue to seek reliable barrels. According to […]
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Houston-based ConocoPhillips (NYSE: COP), the largest U.S. independent oil and gas producer, reported second-quarter 2026 results on August 6, 2026, that beat Wall Street expectations. Higher commodity prices more than offset a year-over-year decline in production, driving sharp gains in earnings and cash flow. The company also reaffirmed full-year guidance, doubled share repurchases, achieved a […]
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In a timely July 20, 2026, article for City Journal, energy analyst Mark P. Mills dismantles the persistent narrative of an “energy transition” — the idea that wind, solar, and batteries will soon replace oil, natural gas, and coal. Mills, executive director of the National Center for Energy Analytics and author of The Cloud Revolution, […]
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In a significant move strengthening U.S. energy ties with Iraq, ConocoPhillips has agreed to acquire a 42% interest in BP Energy Company of Kirkuk Limited (BP ECKL), the contractor entity overseeing the redevelopment of major oil fields in northern Iraq’s Kirkuk region. BP will retain the remaining 58% majority stake. The deal, announced on July […]
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The Iran war that erupted on February 28 has sent oil prices surging past $100 per barrel amid disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and Persian Gulf supply chains. While the broader energy sector has benefited from the geopolitical shock, not all Big Oil majors have performed equally. BP has emerged as the standout performer […]
Continue ReadingIn a move that underscores the ongoing consolidation and optimization in the U.S. oil industry, ConocoPhillips (COP) is reportedly exploring the sale of certain assets in the Permian Basin valued at approximately $2 billion. This development, first reported by Bloomberg, comes as the company seeks to streamline its portfolio following a series of major acquisitions. […]
Continue ReadingIn the volatile world of energy markets, oil traders are increasingly betting on upward price movements, driven by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The global Brent benchmark has shown a call skew—a premium for bullish call options—for 14 consecutive sessions, while the U.S. crude marker has followed suit for 13 days, marking the […]
Continue ReadingThe US oil and gas sector is showing signs of resilience with a recent uptick in drilling activity, even as analysts sound alarms over an impending global oil surplus. According to the latest Baker Hughes data, the US rig count rose by five to 549 in the week ending December 5, 2025, marking the fourth […]
Continue ReadingIn a bold move to revitalize American energy production, the Trump administration has unveiled a sweeping offshore oil and gas leasing schedule through the Department of the Interior (DOI). Announced on August 19, 2025, this initiative marks a stark reversal from the restrictive policies of the previous Biden administration, aiming to unleash domestic resources and […]
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