SLB, Liberty Form Data Alliance; TotalEnergies Posts Strong Oil Trading
A roundup of operator news with implications for Bakken production and global market stability.
Oilfield services giant SLB and Liberty have agreed to form a data center alliance, according to Rigzone. Gavin Rennick, president of SLB's New Energy and Industrial business, stated the partnership aims to "help developers accelerate deployment of new data center capacity." For Bakken operators, such industry moves toward advanced digital infrastructure could signal a continued focus on efficiency and data-driven operations, though the specific local impact is not detailed in the report.
In corporate earnings, TotalEnergies SE reported another quarter of strong oil trading performance, Rigzone separately reported. The company cited market upheaval following the Iran war as a factor. Strong trading results from major international operators can reflect the volatile price environment that also dictates the economics for Bakken crude, influencing wellhead prices and operator revenues in North Dakota.
Meanwhile, analysts are examining developments related to Hormuz crossings, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. Rigzone noted discussions with analysts from Hartree Partners and Energy Aspects. Stability and traffic through the Strait of Hormuz directly affect global crude oil supply and pricing benchmarks, which Bakken oil prices are tied to. Any disruption or analysis of this key route is a key market indicator for Williston Basin producers and royalty owners.
These developments highlight the interconnected nature of the Bakken with global service providers, corporate trading desks, and geopolitical supply routes. Advances in digital infrastructure may support operational gains, while international market volatility and strategic trade analysis remain central to the region's financial outlook.
Source
According to Rigzone reports from July 16, 2026.
