How to thrive in the transition
Weaker oil prices, new digital trends and the energy transition are redefining the business. State companies must be prepared
Crude prices below $50 a barrel are not a blip on the radar—but they continue to challenge oil and gas firms across the world. International oil companies (IOCs) and oil-field services (OFS) firms are busy restructuring to adapt to this new pricing reality. Companies like BP are aggressively changing their portfolios to favour smaller, brownfield endeavours that carry high margins, with lower risk. With a focus on cost per barrel, the industry is exploring new digital opportunities and models of collaboration. The recent establishment of Baker Hughes and GE Oil & Gas into BHGE is an example of how major OFS firms are reshaping the industry to optimise oil and gas operations across the va

Also in this section
22 July 2025
The gas-hungry sector is set for rapid growth, and oil majors and some of the world’s largest LNG firms are investing in ammonia production and export facilities, though much depends on regulatory support
22 July 2025
Next year’s WPC Energy Congress taking place in April in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia will continue to promote the role of women in the energy sector, with a number of events focusing on the issue.
22 July 2025
Pedro Miras is the serving President of WPC Energy for the current cycle which will culminate with the 25th WPC Energy Congress in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in April 2026. He has over 30 years of experience in the energy sector, including stints with Repsol and the IEA. Here he talks to Petroleum Economist about the challenges and opportunities the global energy sector currently faces.
17 July 2025
US downstream sector in key state feels the pain of high costs, an environmental squeeze and the effects of broader market trends