What is Halliburton – Everything You Need to Know About the Energy Services Leader
What is Halliburton? The Complete Guide to the Energy Services Giant
Introduction: Why Halliburton Matters in Today’s Energy World
When you think about the oil and gas industry, one name that consistently stands out is Halliburton. Founded in 1919, this U.S.-based company has become one of the world’s top energy services providers, playing a key role in drilling, exploration, and production. But along with innovation comes controversy — and Halliburton has had its fair share.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Halliburton in 2025 — its services, legacy, challenges, and future in a sustainable energy world.
What Does Halliburton Do? Core Services Explained
Halliburton supports energy companies across the entire life cycle of an oil or gas well. Here’s a snapshot of its key services:
- Drilling & Well Construction: Safe and efficient drilling into deep underground reserves.
- Completion & Production: Services like cementing, perforating, and well logging to maximize output.
- Reservoir Evaluation: Advanced seismic and geophysical testing to analyze and optimize oil reserves.
- Project Management: Turnkey solutions for oilfield development worldwide.
Read our full guide on Top Energy Industry Leaders in 2025.
Halliburton's Rich History: From 1919 to Global Dominance
- Founded: 1919 by Erle P. Halliburton in Duncan, Oklahoma
- Key Milestone: Rapid growth during the mid-20th century
- Notable Leadership: Dick Cheney (CEO from 1995–2000) before becoming U.S. Vice President
- Global Expansion: Now operating in over 70 countries
Halliburton’s evolution mirrors the rise of modern energy infrastructure.
Halliburton in the Energy Industry Today
- Innovation Driver: Pioneer in deepwater drilling and horizontal drilling technologies
- Market Role: One of the largest oilfield service providers globally
- Client Base: Works with governments, major oil companies, and independent operators
Controversies and Legal Challenges: The Darker Side
While Halliburton has achieved great success, it has also faced serious allegations:
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Deepwater Horizon Disaster (2010)
- Provided cementing services on BP's well
- Accused of ignoring risks that contributed to the explosion
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Environmental Criticism
- Linked with fracking technologies believed to cause water contamination
- Accused of lobbying against stricter environmental laws
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Political Connections
- Close ties to U.S. government, especially during wars in Iraq and Afghanistan
- Criticized for no-bid contracts and lack of transparency
Explore this New York Times article on Halliburton and the environment.
Financial Performance in 2024–2025
- Revenue: $20+ billion (2024)
- Key Markets: North America, Middle East, Asia
- Stock Outlook: Stable, but dependent on oil price fluctuations
- Challenges: Volatility in crude oil prices, geopolitical risks
Fact: When oil prices rise, Halliburton’s profits typically surge.
Halliburton’s Economic Impact on Global Energy Markets
Halliburton plays a critical role in shaping the global energy economy. As one of the largest oilfield services companies, its operations directly affect the supply and cost of energy, influencing both developed and emerging markets.
1. Influence on Oil Prices and Global Markets
When Halliburton increases drilling efficiency or expands to new reserves, global oil supply rises—often stabilizing or lowering prices. Conversely, any operational disruption can reduce supply, contributing to global price hikes. These shifts affect transportation, manufacturing, and inflation worldwide.
2. Contribution to GDP in Oil-Producing Countries
In nations like Saudi Arabia, USA, Brazil, and Nigeria, Halliburton’s services support a significant portion of national GDP through employment, infrastructure development, and production growth. Its partnerships with local firms also stimulate regional economic ecosystems.
3. Investment and Stock Market Impact
Halliburton is a publicly traded company listed on the NYSE, making it a barometer for the energy sector’s financial health. Its performance influences investor sentiment, energy ETFs, and pension funds that invest in the oil and gas industry.
4. Job Creation and Technological Investment
By investing in AI-driven exploration, smart drilling, and carbon-reduction technologies, Halliburton creates thousands of jobs across engineering, R&D, and logistics sectors—contributing to long-term human capital and innovation-driven economic growth.
Halliburton's Sustainability & Future in Renewable Energy
As the world shifts toward clean energy, Halliburton is investing in:
- Carbon Capture Technologies
- Energy Efficiency Tools for Drilling
- Renewable Project Consulting
Halliburton’s future depends on how well it can evolve with the new energy economy.
Related Link: Read Halliburton’s 2025 sustainability report.
Conclusion: Is Halliburton Still a Powerhouse in 2025?
Yes — but with conditions.
Halliburton is not just a drilling company; it's a global energy innovator, influencer, and at times, a subject of major controversy. Whether you're an investor, student, or energy analyst, understanding Halliburton means understanding the pulse of global energy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Halliburton
1. What is Halliburton known for?
Halliburton is known for providing energy services to the oil and gas industry, including drilling, well completion, and reservoir evaluation.
2. When was Halliburton founded and by whom?
Halliburton was founded in 1919 by Erle P. Halliburton in Duncan, Oklahoma.
3. What services does Halliburton provide?
Halliburton offers services like drilling, well construction, cementing, production enhancement, geophysical testing, and reservoir evaluation.
4. What is Halliburton's role in the Deepwater Horizon disaster?
Halliburton was one of the companies involved in the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, which led to major legal and environmental controversies.
5. Who was the former CEO of Halliburton that later became U.S. Vice President?
Dick Cheney served as Halliburton’s CEO before becoming the Vice President of the United States under George W. Bush.
6. Is Halliburton involved in renewable energy?
Halliburton is investing in sustainable technologies and adapting its services to support the energy transition toward renewables.
7. Where does Halliburton operate globally?
Halliburton operates in over 70 countries, serving energy companies across North America, South America, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.
8. How does oil price affect Halliburton’s business?
Halliburton’s revenue and profitability are closely tied to oil prices—higher oil prices boost demand for its services, while lower prices reduce it.
9. What is Halliburton's role in the global economy?
Halliburton influences global oil prices, supports GDP growth in oil-producing countries, and plays a major role in job creation and technological advancement in the energy sector.
10. How does Halliburton affect energy prices?
By enhancing oilfield efficiency and exploration, Halliburton helps increase global energy supply, which in turn stabilizes or reduces oil prices.
11. Why is Halliburton important for developing economies?
In emerging markets, Halliburton’s presence boosts infrastructure, generates employment, and strengthens local industries tied to energy production.
12. Does Halliburton impact the stock market?
Yes. As a major energy company on the New York Stock Exchange, Halliburton’s performance affects energy stocks, ETFs, and investor confidence in the oil and gas sector.
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