Issue: February 2025

SPECIAL FOCUS: 2025 Forecast & Review

Uncertainty remains the greatest obstacle to better Canadian upstream performance

It’s been an odd start to 2025. Amid stronger underlying factors, the Canadian oil patch normally would be gearing up to bolster production. But with the federal government in disarray amid threats of a damaging trade war from the U.S., uncertainty remains the only constant.  

International drilling & production: Upstream work outside the U.S. will be up slightly

The outlook for international E&P remains mixed, with a slight gain in drilling expected. Four of eight regions will be up, three will be down, and the Middle East will be flat. South America and the Far East/South Asia are the stand-outs. Offshore activity will fare better than onshore work.   

U.S. drilling: Fiscal discipline and regulatory shifts are influencing moderate, controlled growth in 2025

U.S. operators will strategically slow production growth moving during 2025 in favor of cash flow as a new political administration gains footing, causing a ripple effect of shifts in the global market. 

E&P spending: Global capex to remain steady in 2025

Global E&P spending is expected to remain flat in 2025, ending a three-year growth streak. North American (NAM) overall spending will see a slight decline, largely driven by the U.S. International E&P spending growth is expected to moderate amid global market shifts.   

Washington outlook: U.S. federal energy policy changed radically on January 20

President Donald Trump’s remaking of U.S. energy policy is moving at breakneck speed, with many moving parts.   
COLUMNS

First Oil: Forecast calls for a near-repeat in 2025

As we do every year at this time, we have just completed our annual winter forecast. And quite frankly, this new forecast is calling for nearly a full repeat of 2024’s performance, in terms of overall activity numbers.

Oil and gas in the capitals: Can President Trump reduce Iran's oil exports significantly?

Executive viewpoint: Eye on 2025: Major trends that are shaping oil, gas and energy this year

Water management: Water and oil do mix

FEATURES

Wood’s Hall sees oil and gas projects progressing while energy transition work gains scale

Known for delivering engineering, advisory and operational solutions, Wood is involved with major projects globally. One of the firm’s key executives believes Wood will continue to pursue a dual track of oil and gas work, and energy transition projects, as the economic picture brightens. 

World Oil’s Deepwater Development Conference approaches with great momentum

The world’s premier deepwater conference and exhibition, MCEDD, will be held in Madrid during late March, featuring an outstanding lineup of speakers and topics. 
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