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US Oil Rig Count Rises: The oil rig count was 510 in the week ended Mar 15, increasing from the week-ago figure of 504.

Permian oil rig count increases in 3 of prior 5 weeks

In its weekly release, Baker Hughes Company BKR stated that the U.S. Permian oil rig count was higher than the prior week’s figure. The rotary rig count, issued by BKR, is usually bring out in major newspapers and trade publications.

Baker Hughes’ data, issued at the end of every week since 1944, helps energy service providers gauge the overall business environment of the oil and gas industry. The number of active rigs and its comparison with the week-ago figure indicates the demand trajectory for the company’s oilfield services from exploration and production companies.

Rig Count Data in Detail

Total U.S. Rig Count Rises: The number of rigs engaged in the exploration and production of oil and natural gas in the United States was 629 in the week ended Mar 15. The figure is higher than theweek-ago count of 622. Although the figure increased in three of the prior five weeks, there has been a slowdown in drilling activities. Many analysts believe that shale producers are getting more efficient, requiring fewer rigs, while some doubt whether certain producers have enough prospective land to drill. The current national rig count is, however, lower than the year-ago level of 754.

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Source: yahoo!finance

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Discover the pros and cons of leasing vs. owning oil and gas rights. Make informed decisions aligned with your goals in the lucrative energy sector.

Leasing vs. owning oil and gas rights: Which is better?

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DISCLAIMER: We are not financial advisors. The content on this website is for educational purposes only and merely cites our own personal opinions. In order to make the best financial decision that suits your own needs, you must conduct your own research and seek the advice of a licensed financial advisor if necessary. Know that all investments involve some form of risk and there is no guarantee that you will be successful in making, saving, or investing money; nor is there any guarantee that you won’t experience any loss when investing. Always remember to make smart decisions and do your own research!

The oil and gas industry is one of the most lucrative sectors in the world, attracting both seasoned investors and landowners with valuable subsurface resources. However, when it comes to oil and gas rights, individuals and entities face a significant decision: should they lease or own these rights? In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the differences between leasing and owning oil and gas rights, the advantages and drawbacks of each approach, the legal and financial aspects, and considerations for landowners and investors. By understanding the nuances of leasing and owning, you can make an informed decision aligned with your goals in the oil and gas industry.

Understanding Oil and Gas Rights

Oil and gas rights, often referred to as mineral rights, are property rights that grant ownership over valuable subsurface resources. These resources can include oil, natural gas, coal, metals, and various minerals. Mineral rights are typically separate from surface rights. Meaning one party owns the surface property while another owns the subsurface minerals.

Leasing Oil and Gas Rights

Leasing oil and gas rights involves granting a third party (usually an energy company) the exclusive right to extract, produce, and sell valuable resources from beneath your property. The owner of the mineral rights receives royalty payments, lease bonus payments, or a combination of both, depending on the terms negotiated.

Owning Oil and Gas Rights

Owning oil and gas rights means you retain exclusive control and ownership of the subsurface resources on your property. You have the right to extract, produce, and sell the resources directly, enter into leases with energy companies, or participate directly in the drilling and extraction processes.

Advantages of Leasing

Leasing oil and gas rights offers several advantages:

  • Passive Income: Lease holders receive royalty payments without the responsibility of managing the extraction process.
  • Reduced Risk: Leasing transfers the operational and financial risks to the energy company. Which must adhere to environmental regulations and manage expenses.
  • Immediate Payment: Lease bonus payments provide an immediate financial benefit to the mineral rights owner.
  • Diversification: Leasing allows landowners to diversify their income without investing substantial capital.

Advantages of Owning

Owning oil and gas rights provides its own set of advantages:

  • Full Control: Owners have complete control over the extraction and production process, which can be advantageous in terms of strategy and timing.
  • Revenue Potential: Owners may potentially earn higher revenue if they can effectively manage and optimize the extraction process.
  • Ownership of All Revenue Streams: Owners retain all revenue streams, including royalty payments and the proceeds from the sale of extracted resources.
  • Asset Value: Owning mineral rights adds to the overall value of the property, potentially increasing its resale value.

Drawbacks of Leasing

Leasing oil and gas rights comes with some potential drawbacks:

  • Limited Control: Lease holders relinquish control over the extraction process, which means they must trust the lessee’s expertise and integrity.
  • Long-Term Gains: Royalty payments may provide a steady income, but lease agreements often span several years, delaying the realization of significant gains.
  • Market Volatility: Royalty payments can fluctuate with market conditions, affecting the overall income.

Drawbacks of Owning

Owning oil and gas rights also has its drawbacks:

  • Operational Responsibilities: Owners bear the full burden of managing the extraction process, including the costs and potential environmental and regulatory issues.
  • Financial Risk: The owner is exposed to financial risk, which includes operational expenses, commodity price fluctuations, and potential resource depletion.
  • Environmental and Regulatory Compliance: Oil and gas operations are subject to strict environmental regulations, which the owner must adhere to.

Legal and Financial Considerations

When making the decision to lease or own oil and gas rights, consider the following legal and financial aspects:

  • Legal Expertise: Consult with legal professionals who specialize in mineral rights to navigate the legal intricacies.
  • Due Diligence: Conduct thorough research and due diligence regarding the geological potential of your property and the reputation and financial stability of the lessee or operator.
  • Negotiation Skills: Hone your negotiation skills to secure favorable terms and agreements when leasing or selling your mineral rights.

Tax Implications

Oil and gas rights transactions have tax implications, including capital gains taxes and potential deductions. Consult a tax advisor to understand the tax treatment and strategies for minimizing tax liability.

Making the Decision: Lease or Own?

The choice between leasing and owning oil and gas rights. It depends on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and the specifics of your property. Consider factors like your level of expertise, willingness to manage operations, and the potential for long-term gains. Each approach has its merits and challenges, so make your decision based on your unique circumstances.

 

Deciding whether to lease or own oil and gas rights is a critical decision for landowners and investors in the energy sector. Each approach has its advantages and drawbacks, so it’s essential to carefully evaluate your goals, risk tolerance, and property specifics. By understanding the legal, financial, and tax implications of both options. You can make an informed choice that aligns with your long-term objectives in the oil and gas industry.

 

 

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The US oil & gas industry's recent success underscores its resilience and ability to thrive in the face of political, environmental challenges

US oil and gas companies profits skyrocket as the US becomes the energy supplier of choice

US Oil and Gas Companies

Despite the Biden administration’s ambitious climate goals. The US oil and gas companies in the United States has seen unprecedented growth and profitability. The top 10 listed oil and gas producers in the US have reported a combined net income of $313 billion in the first three years of President Biden’s term (Financial Times). This is three times the $112 billion generated during the same period under President Trump.

This surge in profitability can be attributed to several factors. Including record-high production levels as well as significant cost reduction particularly in the oil rich Gulf of Mexico. In December 2023, US oil production reached 13.5 million barrels per day, surpassing all previous records. According to the US Energy Administration. By 2024 the US will reach the daily production of 14 million barrels per day. Additionally, natural gas production exceeded 105 billion cubic feet per day for the first time. These achievements have solidified the US as a global energy leader, with the country now ranking as the second-largest exporter of crude oil and the largest exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG), overtaking Qatar.

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Source: BENZINGA

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The EIA estimated that US crude oil production reached “an all-time high in December of more than 13.3 million barrels per day.

Record oil and gas production makes America more secure

Record oil and gas production

America’s oil and natural gas producers are innovating to produce more than ever. We’re also easing emissions and bringing reliable, affordable energy to Americans and our global allies.
In its latest short-term energy outlook, the Energy Information Administration estimated that U.S. crude oil production reached “an all-time high in December of more than 13.3 million barrels per day.”

The production of oil and natural gas in the United States plays a crucial role in stabilizing prices for consumers. These commodities are traded on global markets, and their prices can be influenced by a myriad of factors, including geopolitical events and decisions made by stakeholders across the world.

In times of turmoil or disruption in the global oil market, such as supply disruptions or political tensions in major oil-producing regions, having a robust domestic production capacity helps mitigate the impact of these external shocks on American consumers. By reducing the reliance on foreign sources and increasing domestic output, the U.S. is better equipped to weather fluctuations in global oil prices, providing a sense of stability and security for consumers.

Particularly Evident

The significance of strong U.S. oil and gas production is particularly evident when considering the potential actions of “bad actors” in the global market. In an interconnected world where energy markets are highly sensitive to external events, the actions of rogue states or non-state actors can have profound consequences on oil prices and supply chains.

By bolstering domestic production, the U.S. can insulate itself to some extent from these external risks and maintain a degree of control over its energy security. This not only helps in ensuring a stable supply of energy for American households and businesses but also contributes to the country’s overall economic resilience in the face of global uncertainties.

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Source: Fremont Tribune

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Chevron Corp. beat earnings estimates and raised dividends after posting record oil and natural gas production.

Chevron beats earning estimates following “record” oil and gas production

Chevron beats earnings estimates and raised dividends after posting record oil and natural gas production, boosting Chief Executive Officer Mike Wirth’s effort to rebound from a year of missed performance targets.

Adjusted earnings of $3.45 a share exceeded the Bloomberg Consensus estimate by 23 cents. Chevron raised its dividend by almost 8% to $1.63 a share, also ahead of forecasts.

The No. 2 U.S. oil and gas operator incurred $3.7 billion of charges stemming mostly from assets in its home state of California and the dismantling of decades-old infrastructure in the Gulf of Mexico. Annual production climbed 4%, primarily boosted by rising output in the Permian basin and other U.S. fields.

Shell Plc was the first member of the oil and gas industry to post fourth-quarter results, announcing on Thursday $7.31 billion in adjusted net income that was more than $1 billion higher than the average forecast.

Chevron had a tough 2023 in some respects, when its stock underperformed rivals, dropping 17% amid production disappointments and cost overruns from the Permian basin to Kazakhstan. The company already has a challenged growth outlook compared to competitor Exxon Mobil Corp., and operational missteps only added to investor concerns.

CEO Wirth has raised share buybacks and orchestrated the Hess Corp. takeover to acquire, among other things, a 30% stake in Exxon’s offshore Guyana project, one of the world’s fastest-growing oil provinces.

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Source: World Oil

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Production in Utah's oil-rich Uinta Basin is at an all-time high. Texas oilman Jim Finley is credited with opening the floodgates.

Meet the secretive ‘mastermind’ behind Utah’s oil boom

A Bit Of A Ghost

The Utah’s oil boom: Jim Finley is a bit of a ghost. Outside of oil industry circles, few people have probably ever heard of the man. He rarely speaks in public.

Utah's oil boom

One exception was in October 2021. When Finley the CEO of Texas-based Finley Resources. Presented to a coalition of seven oil-producing counties in eastern Utah. Following his speech, coalition board members and staff applauded Finley for his investments in Utah’s oil-rich Uinta Basin, and thanked him for making time to speak. One person noted that he is a particularly difficult man to get hold of.

“Sometimes nobody knows where I am,” Finley said.

“On purpose,” someone else chimed in. Finley chuckled.

A Key Role

The Texas oilman has played a key role. In spearheading the kind of oil boom that has long evaded the remote basin. In just over a decade, he’s become one of the top producers in the Uinta. And is now playing an outsize role in shaping Utah’s energy future.

Finley has thrown his support behind a controversial rail line that would make it easier for him and the basin’s five other producers to export oil to out-of-state markets, while simultaneously boosting export capacity via trucking and existing rail. He has his fingers in every aspect of basin production, from drilling oil and mining sand for hydraulic fracturing to operating a transloading facility and a growing fleet of oil trains. Powerful political allies have helped him expand his empire, primarily by funneling public money toward infrastructure projects that benefit the oil sector.

Chris Kuveke, a researcher at BailoutWatch, a watchdog group that provided HuffPost with extensive research on Finley’s portfolio and operations, called Finley “the mastermind” of the basin’s current oil boom.

“He has a long history of using campaign finance and lobbying as influence to get his projects where he wants them to be,” Kuveke said. “And he knows what he’s doing. He has a serious track record of influencing the industry that he wants to grow, being a linchpin. And that’s what he’s doing in the Uinta.”

 

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Source: HUFFPOST

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Merger and acquisition activity among exploration and production companies hit $144B in the fourth quarter alone and $190B for 2023.

The oil and gas industry is undergoing its biggest-ever consolidation

  • The oil and gas industry is undergoing its biggest-ever consolidation, according to Enverus.
  • Upstream merger and acquisition activity hit $144 billion in the fourth quarter alone. And $190 billion for 2023, both setting records.
  • Bids from Exxon Mobil, Chevron, and Occidental Petroleum were among the key deals fueling the record.

The upstream oil and gas sector is consolidating at a record pace. As companies race to secure longevity in the market.

Merger and acquisition activity among exploration and production companies hit $144 billion in the fourth quarter alone. And $190 billion for 2023, both setting records, according to analytics firm Enverus.

“Oil and gas is undergoing a historic consolidation wave comparable to what occurred in the late 1990s and early 2000s giving rise to the modern supermajors.” Senior Vice President Andrew Dittmar said in a press release. “After a decade of lowered investment in exploration and with the major US shale plays largely defined, M&A has become the preferred tool to replace declining reserves and secure longevity in these companies’ profitable upstream businesses.”

In the fourth quarter, bids from Exxon Mobil, Chevron, and Occidental Petroleum. Were among the key deals fueling the record-setting consolidation.

M&A activity was overwhelmingly focused on oil last year. Totaling $186 billion in deals, while $6 billion targeted gas, according to Enverus.

Interest in the latter will likely grow as the US industry is working on increasing its liquefied natural gas exports over the next three years.

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Source: yahoo!finance

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The Permian Basin produced nearly 6M barrels of oil a day in 2023. That’s more than Iraq, the UAE or Kuwait, according to Peter McNally.

Oil-rich Permian Basin attracts buyers with resources

2023 was a big year for the U.S. oil and natural gas business. The country, Oil-rich Permian Basin, remained the world’s largest oil producer for the sixth straight year, and a wave of consolidation swept through the industry. A good chunk of that merger and acquisition activity was concentrated in the Permian Basin of West Texas and New Mexico, which has been helping the U.S. hold on to the world’s top spot.

Oil-rich Permian BasinThe Permian Basin produced nearly 6 million barrels of oil a day in 2023. That’s more than Iraq, the United Arab Emirates or Kuwait, according to Peter McNally, analyst at Third Bridge.

“This year was another new high, you know, for the Permian. And that has attracted a lot of interest,” he said.

The Permian Basin has another thing going for it. “It’s almost like real estate: location, location, location,” said Robert McNally of consulting firm Rapidan Energy.

Industry-friendly regulation in Texas is part of that. There’s also less federal regulation when it comes to exporting the oil because it doesn’t have to cross state lines.

 

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Source: Marketplace

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Amidst attacks on US energy production and continued global instability, the US oil & natural gas industry exceeded expectations in 2023.

US oil & gas industry continues to innovate despite headwinds in 2023

Amidst attacks on U.S. energy production and continued global instability, the U.S. oil and natural gas industry managed to not only meet but exceed expectations in 2023. The industry broke production records and supplied critical energy resources at home and abroad, all while reducing methane emissions.

Oil and Gas Industry Continues to Innovate Amid Record Production

US oil & gas industry

 

In 2023, the oil and natural gas sectors continued to innovate and reach record breaking levels of production. After becoming a net energy exporter in 2019, the United States has emerged as a behemoth in the global energy market, hitting prolific levels of oil and natural gas production and exports in the past year.

U.S. liquified natural gas (LNG) had a tremendous year with the United States becoming the top LNG exporter in the world.

 

 

These record-breaking levels of production have not come at the expense of Americans as some activists claim. To the contrary, record energy production levels have successfully been able to meet both domestic and international demand, providing crucial energy security at home and abroad, all while keeping prices stable.

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Source: Energy in Depth

 

 

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Dive into the world of Overriding Royalty Interests (ORRIs) with our comprehensive guide. Explore the advantages, risks, and key considerations for investors eyeing the lucrative energy wealth, especially in regions like Texas.

Investing in overriding royalty interests: A lucrative option

DISCLAIMER: We are not financial advisors. The content on this website is for educational purposes only and merely cites our own personal opinions. In order to make the best financial decision that suits your own needs, you must conduct your own research and seek the advice of a licensed financial advisor if necessary. Know that all investments involve some form of risk and there is no guarantee that you will be successful in making, saving, or investing money; nor is there any guarantee that you won’t experience any loss when investing. Always remember to make smart decisions and do your own research!
The world of investments is vast, with opportunities spanning various industries. One lesser-known yet lucrative option for investors is putting money into Overriding Royalty Interests (ORRIs), particularly in regions with a robust history of energy production like Texas. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of investing in ORRIs, exploring what they are, how they work, the potential advantages and risks, and crucial considerations for those eyeing a slice of the energy wealth.

Understanding Overriding Royalty Interests

Before delving into the investment potential, let’s establish a solid understanding of what Overriding Royalty Interests entail. An ORRI is essentially a share of the revenue generated from the extraction and production of minerals, such as oil and natural gas, from a specific piece of land. Unlike traditional royalties, ORRIs “override” the rights of the working interest owner, entitling the holder to a portion of the income generated, irrespective of property ownership.

Typically expressed as a percentage (e.g., 1% or 3%), the ORRI is calculated based on the gross proceeds from the sale of extracted minerals. This interest is often granted to individuals or entities other than the property owner, such as geologists, drilling companies, or industry professionals.

Mechanics of Overriding Royalty Interests

To grasp how ORRIs function, consider a scenario in the oil-rich landscapes of Texas:

  • A landowner leases their land to an oil and gas company for drilling and extraction.
  • The lease agreement outlines terms, including royalty rates shared between the landowner (lessor) and the company (lessee).
  • Suppose the landowner and company settle on a 20% royalty rate, meaning the landowner gets 20% of mineral revenue.
  • Now, assume an investor holds an overriding royalty interest of 3% on this property. This entitles them to 3% of the gross revenue, in addition to the landowner’s 20% royalty.
  • The remaining 77% of the revenue goes to the drilling company as the working interest.

Investors with ORRIs benefit from mineral extraction without dealing with operational costs or day-to-day activities, making it an enticing prospect for those seeking passive income.

Advantages of Overriding Royalty Interests

Investing in ORRIs offers several advantages for individuals looking to diversify their portfolios:

Passive Income Stream: ORRI holders enjoy a steady income stream without actively participating in operations, making it an attractive source of passive income.

Minimal Operational Responsibilities: Investors are not burdened with operational activities, expenses, or risks associated with drilling and production, minimizing involvement and risk exposure.

Potential for Profit: Regions like Texas, with a history of successful oil and gas production, offer potential for significant profits, attracting investors to the energy sector.

Challenges and Risks

While ORRIs present enticing advantages, investors should be aware of potential challenges and risks:

Market Volatility: The oil and gas industry is prone to price volatility, impacting ORRI profitability and income generation due to fluctuating energy prices.

Lease Terms and Royalty Rates: Unfavorable lease terms or royalty rates negotiated between the landowner and drilling company may reduce potential income for ORRI investors.

Environmental and Regulatory Concerns: Compliance with complex and evolving regulatory frameworks at federal, state, and local levels, along with addressing environmental concerns, poses challenges for ORRI owners.

Key Considerations for Investors

For those eyeing ORRIs as an investment opportunity, careful consideration is paramount:

Lease Negotiations: Thoroughly review and negotiate lease agreements to ensure favorable terms, royalty rates, and protection of investor interests. Professional guidance is invaluable in this process.

Legal and Tax Implications: Navigate the complex legal and tax aspects associated with ORRI ownership by seeking professional guidance. Understand the unique implications and potential tax benefits.

Due Diligence: Conduct comprehensive due diligence before investing. Evaluate profitability potential, stability of the drilling company, and environmental and regulatory factors impacting the investment.

ORRIs vs. Working Interests: Distinguish between overriding royalty interests (ORRIs) and working interests (WIs). While ORRIs offer passive income, WIs involve active participation in operations, bearing operational costs and risks.

 

Investing in Overriding Royalty Interests proves to be a compelling option for those seeking a slice of the lucrative energy sector. While it offers passive income and profit potential, investors must navigate market volatility, lease terms, and regulatory complexities. With careful consideration, thorough due diligence, and professional guidance, investors can unlock the wealth potential of ORRIs and contribute to the dynamic landscape of the energy industry.

 

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