Occidental Petroleum is in advanced talks to acquire CrownRock, a prominent private oil producer in the US shale sector, specifically in the Permian Basin of West Texas. This potential deal has positioned Occidental Petroleum as a leading contender in the auction for CrownRock. The value of the transaction is estimated to be around $12.5 billion. This acquisition is significant as CrownRock is one of the largest privately-held oil and gas producers in the Permian Basin, North America’s most prolific source of crude oil. The Permian Basin is now about mergers and energy consolidation.
Earlier reports indicated that CrownRock was up for sale with an expected valuation of around $8 billion. Among the interested parties was Devon Energy Corp. However, the latest developments suggest that the deal with Occidental Petroleum could surpass $10 billion, including debt. The acquisition of CrownRock by Occidental Petroleum, if completed, would represent a major consolidation in the energy sector, particularly within the Permian Basin, a key area for oil production in the United States.
The recent acquisitions in the Permian Basin highlight a significant trend in the oil and gas industry, where companies are seeking to expand their production capabilities through mergers and acquisitions rather than new exploration.
→Exxon Mobil and Pioneer Natural Resources: Exxon Mobil Corporation announced a definitive agreement to acquire Pioneer Natural Resources in an all-stock transaction valued at $59.5 billion. This merger, one of the largest in the industry, positions Exxon Mobil as a dominant player in the U.S. oil field, specifically enhancing its presence in the Permian Basin. The transaction’s valuation, including net debt, is approximately $64.5 billion.
→Chevron and Hess Corp: Chevron Corporation entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Hess Corporation in an all-stock transaction valued at $53 billion. This acquisition is part of Chevron’s strategy to increase its footprint in the U.S. oil market, particularly in the Permian Basin and other key areas. The deal reflects the ongoing consolidation in the energy sector and the increasing value of established production sites over new exploration.
→Permian Resources and Earthstone Energy: Permian Resources announced its acquisition of Earthstone Energy in an all-stock transaction valued at approximately $4.5 billion, including debt. This acquisition creates a combined entity worth around $14 billion, consolidating Permian Resources’ position as a premier independent exploration and production company in the Delaware Basin within the Permian.
The underlying motivation for these mega-deals is the challenge of acquiring or leasing new Tier-1 drilling acreage. With the prime locations for oil and gas exploration increasingly scarce, companies are turning to acquisitions as a means of growth. By acquiring existing producers, these companies can rapidly expand their production capabilities and reserves without the uncertainties and high costs associated with exploring new fields.
These acquisitions reflect a broader industry trend where established companies are consolidating their positions in key production areas. The Permian Basin, being North America’s most prolific oil-producing region, is a focal point of this consolidation, as companies aim to capitalize on existing resources and infrastructure to optimize production and reduce operational costs. The recent spike in energy prices and geopolitical factors have also played a role in accelerating these consolidations, as companies seek to strengthen their market positions and ensure stable supply chains.
From Back in 2022: Mergers And Acquisitions Are Back With $10 Billion In New Energy Deals
