Wood Mackenzie highlights four US Lower 48 themes to look for in 2026
US Lower 48 rig count to fall below 500 while gas assets drive M&A rebound in 2026.

Emilie joined Palladian after graduating with a degree in history from the University of Exeter. In her spare time, she likes to read, cook, go to the gym and compete in powerlifting.
US Lower 48 rig count to fall below 500 while gas assets drive M&A rebound in 2026.
With 17 high impact wells completed in 2025, Africa will need significant investment to support natural gas demand in the near-medium term.
Egill Abrahamsen, Vice President and Principle Drilling & Well Specialist, Sekal AS, Norway, details how advanced, real-time predictive monitoring systems are transforming offshore drilling operations.
Share buybacks at risk as companies face toughest strategic balancing act yet.
The certification applies to Saipem’s entire offshore asset portfolio, including construction vessels, drilling ships and platforms, floating production and storage units, as well as related onboard equipment – such as pipe-handling systems, cranes, mobile equipment and ROVs – and support activities at logistics bases and offices.