Global Energy Markets

Gains and losses in global energy markets are driven by a range of factors: geopolitical maneuvering, the motivations of major players, local policy and politics, historical sentiments, industry limitations, and simple perception. From oil markets to alternative-energy-powered electricity, the dynamic factors behind price movements must be followed and understood. We not only track the factors, but each element with expert knowledge and lucid delivery.

US Energy Policy & Politics

Energy policy in the United States is driven by politics–national, state, and local. A single municipality can hold up pipeline construction–and has been known to do so since the 1970s. Politicians and bureaucrats, both Republican and Democrat, are known to react to the energy scenario of today and not necessarily the scenario of tomorrow. Non-profits, lobbyists, and NGOs also have an outsize influence in a hyper-partisan environment. Finally, litigation plays an ever greater role in the supply of energy and the profitability of energy ventures. From drilling permits on federal lands and offshore, to ethanol mandates, to natural gas transportation, to loan guarantees for alternative energy, we detail and explain the situation yesterday, today, and tomorrow.

OPEC

OPEC does not have the mythical power that markets once believed, but its decisions and actions are still pivotal markers and drivers of oil supply and pricing. The industry must understand both what OPEC is doing and why OPEC participants are doing it. Now with the participation of Russia, Kazakhstan, and other non-OPEC countries, the strategic calculations are even more complicated. We offer an understanding of the players and their goals with a mastery of the history and a full comprehension of the maneuverings and motivations today.

NOC Activity

National oil companies have unique motivations. Typically, the primary purpose of an NOC is to serve the State’s needs, but sometimes domestic politics complicate that mission. Partnering businesses, competing businesses, and market watchers all have an interest in the activities and motivations of NOCs. We combine local, political, and business analysis to make sense of the issues and events involved.

IOC Activity

International oil companies must maneuver between states and within states. They also work in a web of business partnerships, because no firm in the industry operates alone. The oil market relies on smooth cooperation and constant dealing. We explain what is happening and what it means to business and the markets.

Aramco

For more information about what we offer concerning Aramco, please click here.

Middle-Eastern Geopolitics & Business

The Middle East has a population of over 220 million people–roughly the combined size of the U.K., Germany, France, and Belgium. Much of the region is emerging from years of struggle, and there is significant opportunity for investment and government support in places like Saudi Arabia, Israel, Egypt, and the UAE. Yet the region continues to deal with particular problems, and each state presents unique challenges alongside promise. We highlight the opportunities and point out the hurdles.