Eight U.S. oil and gas operators recorded their first new well permits in more than three years, signaling that confidence is expanding beyond the industry’s largest producers. Rather than indicating another drilling boom, this activity reflects a disciplined market where improving economics are encouraging operators to selectively reinvest in legacy assets and previously uneconomic opportunities.

U.S. energy exports rose 12% year-over-year in March 2026, led by petroleum products, natural gas, and crude oil. The data reinforces that the U.S. energy sector continues to expand its global footprint while reducing reliance on imported energy.

Global oil inventories have been significantly depleted after months of strategic reserve releases and supply disruptions, creating concerns that crude prices could remain elevated even as the Strait of Hormuz reopens. Analysts believe the need to replenish inventories may provide ongoing support for oil prices, with Brent crude projected to average around $110 per barrel in 2026.

Custom oil & gas reports

Oil prices are rising despite a temporary U.S. waiver allowing purchases of Russian oil cargoes, as escalating conflict in the Middle East and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to drive fears of supply shortages and push crude toward $100 per barrel.

For much of the last decade, the Anadarko Basin has lived in the shadow of the Permian. Capital flowed elsewhere. Activity remained selective. Returns were solid but rarely spotlighted. That narrative is starting to change. In the Devon–Coterra merger announcement, management repeatedly pointed to Anadarko as a basin with renewed…

Nile Midstream received Railroad Commission approval in January 2026 to operate the 18.5-mile Delta Crude Express crude oil pipeline across Crane, Upton, and Midland counties, strengthening its footprint in the Central Basin Platform. The permit highlights continued infrastructure investment in Crane County, where sustained drilling activity and proven economics continue to drive demand for localized crude gathering capacity.