Opinion

Gulf of America: 5 things to look for in 2026

Predictions for the year ahead

1 minute read

Caitlin Shaw

Research Director, Upstream Supply Chain

Caitlin Shaw is a research director of upstream supply chain.

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Gulf of America (US Gulf of Mexico) deepwater production will set a record at almost 2.5 million boe/d in 2026, but will this peak prove fleeting? 

Decisions taken in 2026 will determine whether the deepwater GoA remains on the offense and define the basin's role in global portfolios through the rest of the 2020s.

Powered by Lens Upstream, in this report we share our view on this, and five key themes that we believe will define 2026, including:

  • Corporate reshuffling: Majors commit while key basin mainstays prepare exits.
  • Acreage opportunities: Two lease sales offer fresh prospects amid compressed timelines. Will operators show up to bid?
  • Cost pressures: Can the deepwater services sector withstand macro headwinds?
  • And more. 

Fill in the form at the top of the page for your complimentary copy of the full report.