The expansion in drilling activity contrasts with recent output figures from the Energy Information Administration. For the week ending September 18, domestic crude oil production dipped to an average of 13.939 million barrels per day, down slightly from 13.944 million the previous week. Despite this minor contraction, current production remains 438,000 barrels per day higher than year-ago levels.

Regional activity showed uneven growth, as the Permian Basin added one rig to reach 270, while the Eagle Ford shed a unit to settle at 50. Simultaneously, completion activity gained momentum, with the Primary Vision Frac Spread Count rising by three crews to 187. Market sentiment remained cautious leading into the weekend, as Brent crude fell 2.60% to $103.83 per barrel and WTI dropped 2.63% to $92.12.