In recent years the upstream sector has widely embraced data analytics and automation as the key to process optimization and cost control for drilling, completion, and production operations. In this podcast we discuss how poor quality data is slowing this process and could undercut the value of analytics and automation.
Episode 69: Risks to the Permian Basin
In this episode we discuss takeaway capacity constraints that are emerging in the Permian Basin and evaluate the potential impact on drilling and completion activity and oil production over the next 18 months in that market.
Episode 68: 10 Key Questions For An Acquisition
In this episode we identify 10 questions – six regarding personnel/management, 4 involving markets - that should be asked by investors when evaluating a potential acquisition.
Episode 67: Oilfield Spending in 2018: An Update
With spot WTI prices approaching $70, US drilling activity is increasing faster than expected. In this podcast we discuss what this means for spending on oilfield equipment and services this year.
Episode 66: Infinity War and Oilfield Investment
What factors influence an operator’s decision to explore versus exploit? How are movie sequels like developing shale resources? In this podcast we highlight some of the parallels between Hollywood and the oilpatch.
Episode 65: Natural Gas Prices
A colder-than-normal spring has pulled natural gas inventories well-below average for this time of year. Does this mean gas prices might surprise to the upside in 2018? In this podcast we discuss how expectations for gas production have held down gas prices to-date even though inventories are low.
Episode 64: Breakeven, Oil Price, and Capital Spending
One question we’ve been asked is: “If breakeven prices average ~$40/bbl and oil prices are $65/bbl doesn’t this imply tremendous profitability for the industry and mean that upstream investment should grow enormously?” In this podcast we discuss the importance of breakeven price in an operator’s investment decision.
Episode 62: The Day the Oilfield Changed
In this episode we discuss the development of offshore drilling and development, offshore production as a percent of global oil output, cannons, and offshore territorial limits.
Episode 61: Testing, Testing…
Production testing services is a little-followed segment of the oilfield services industry. In this podcast we discuss the reasons for conducting production tests, the different types of production testing services, and the factors that drive this market.
Episode 60: What’s Ahead for the Directional Drilling Services Market?
Over the past decade directional drilling services have moved from primarily being a non-US, offshore-oriented market to one that is predominately focused on the US onshore. In this podcast we discuss the use of conventional systems versus rotary-steerable technology, as well as developments in signal transmission technology.