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Oilfield services giants face earnings test as drilling slows

Halliburton, Baker Hughes, and Schlumberger report Q4 results next week with analysts expecting sharp earnings declines amid weaker US drilling activity.

January 17, 2026

Big week for oilfield services

The energy sector faces a critical stretch of earnings reports as three major oilfield services companies prepare to release fourth-quarter results.

Halliburton kicks off on Wednesday, January 21, followed by Schlumberger on Friday, January 23. Baker Hughes rounds out the group with results expected Sunday, January 25.

Together, these firms provide a window into global drilling activity and capital spending trends. See our energy calendar for all upcoming earnings dates and market events.

Expectations point lower

Analysts expect weaker results across the board. Halliburton is forecast to report earnings per share of $0.54, down nearly 23% from a year ago. Schlumberger, the world's largest oilfield services company, is expected to post EPS of $0.74, a decline of almost 20%.

The softer outlook reflects a challenging environment for US shale producers, who have pulled back on drilling as oil prices hover near $59 per barrel for WTI and $64 for Brent.

What to watch

Investor attention will focus on:

  • North American activity – Any signs of further rig count declines
  • 2026 guidance – How companies see capital spending shaping up
  • International growth – Whether overseas markets can offset US weakness

Supermajors close out the month

The earnings parade continues January 30 when ExxonMobil and Chevron report Q4 results. The two largest US oil companies will offer insight into production trends and shareholder returns amid a subdued price environment.

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