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Disciplined Execution, Durable Momentum: Nabors 1Q 2026

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Nabors Industries (NYSE: NBR) reported 1Q 2026 operating revenues of $784 million, net loss attributable to shareholders of $15 million, and adjusted EBITDA of $205 million. Consolidated adjusted free cash flow was negative $48.2 million. Total debt was reduced to $2.1 billion as of March 31, 2026.

Average rigs working were 167.9 (Lower 48: 65.3; International: 92.6). The company redeemed remaining 2028 notes and extended weighted average debt maturity to over five years. Q2 2026 guidance includes Lower 48 average rigs of 67–68, international rigs 93–95, and Q2 capex of $180–190 million.

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AI-generated analysis. Not financial advice.

Positive

  • Adjusted EBITDA of $204.8M
  • Total debt reduced to $2.1B
  • Average total rigs working 167.9
  • Lower 48 rig count increased to 65.3

Negative

  • Net loss attributable to shareholders of $15M
  • Consolidated adjusted free cash flow negative $48.2M
  • International Drilling adjusted EBITDA declined to $121M

News Market Reaction – NBR

+11.28% 1.6x vol
39 alerts
+11.28% News Effect
+10.9% Peak Tracked
-7.2% Trough Tracked
+$170M Valuation Impact
$1.68B Market Cap
1.6x Rel. Volume

On the day this news was published, NBR gained 11.28%, reflecting a significant positive market reaction. Argus tracked a peak move of +10.9% during that session. Argus tracked a trough of -7.2% from its starting point during tracking. Our momentum scanner triggered 39 alerts that day, indicating elevated trading interest and price volatility. This price movement added approximately $170M to the company's valuation, bringing the market cap to $1.68B at that time. Trading volume was above average at 1.6x the daily average, suggesting increased trading activity.

Data tracked by StockTitan Argus on the day of publication.

Key Figures

Operating revenues: $784M Net loss: $15M Adjusted EBITDA: $205M +5 more
8 metrics
Operating revenues $784M 1Q 2026 operating revenues versus $797.5M in 4Q 2025
Net loss $15M 1Q 2026 net loss attributable to shareholders; 4Q 2025 was $10M income
Adjusted EBITDA $205M 1Q 2026 adjusted EBITDA compared with $221.6M in 4Q 2025
Total debt $2.1B Total debt as of March 31, 2026 after redeeming remaining 2028 notes
Debt reduction $386M Total debt reduced since year-end 2024
Next debt maturity $250M Next debt maturity due in 2029
Capex guidance $730–760M Full-year 2026 capital spending guidance for Nabors
SANAD capex $360–380M 2026 capital spending for SANAD newbuilds within total capex plan

Market Reality Check

Price: $101.35 Vol: Volume 253,763 is below t...
normal vol
$101.35 Last Close
Volume Volume 253,763 is below the 20-day average of 344,947, indicating muted trading interest pre‑release. normal
Technical Price at 90.70 sits very close to the 52-week high of 92.38 and trades above the 200-day MA at 55.47.

Peers on Argus

NBR gained 0.9% with mixed peer action: RIG up 4.82%, PDS and SDRL modestly posi...

NBR gained 0.9% with mixed peer action: RIG up 4.82%, PDS and SDRL modestly positive, while BORR and PTEN declined. This pattern points to stock‑specific factors around the print rather than a unified drilling sector move.

Historical Context

5 past events · Latest: Mar 24 (Neutral)
Pattern 5 events
Date Event Sentiment Move Catalyst
Mar 24 Earnings call invite Neutral +1.7% Invitation to discuss Q1 2026 results and outlook on earnings call.
Feb 11 Earnings release Positive -9.9% Reported 4Q 2025 profit, strong EBITDA and sizable net debt reduction.
Jan 14 Earnings call invite Neutral -2.5% Announcement of 4Q 2025 earnings call with senior management participation.
Nov 04 Credit ratings update Positive +0.1% Multiple rating agencies upgraded Nabors’ credit ratings alongside new notes.
Nov 04 Debt financing Neutral +0.1% Priced $700M senior priority guaranteed notes due 2032 for refinancing.
Pattern Detected

Recent fundamental news (notably 4Q 2025 results) saw at least one instance where positive balance sheet progress coincided with a negative price reaction, while conference‑related items drew relatively modest moves.

Recent Company History

Over the past several months, Nabors has focused on earnings visibility, capital structure and investor communication. The company announced 4Q 2025 results with operating revenues of $798M, net income of $10M, adjusted EBITDA of $222M, and net debt reduction of about $554M since year‑end 2024, yet shares fell nearly 10%. Earlier and later conference‑call invitations in January and March 2026 produced modest price changes. In November 2025, new $700M notes and concurrent ratings upgrades from S&P, Fitch and Moody’s drew only marginal reactions, underscoring a pattern where leverage actions alone have not driven large sustained moves.

Market Pulse Summary

The stock surged +11.3% in the session following this news. A strong positive reaction aligns with N...
Analysis

The stock surged +11.3% in the session following this news. A strong positive reaction aligns with Nabors trading near its 52-week high ahead of this release and ongoing balance sheet improvement, including total debt at $2.1B after a $386M reduction since year-end 2024. However, 1Q 2026 still showed a net loss of $15M and negative adjusted free cash flow, which could limit follow-through if investors refocus on profitability and cash generation rather than only rig growth and deleveraging.

Key Terms

adjusted ebitda, adjusted free cash flow, managed pressure drilling, weighted average debt maturity
4 terms
adjusted ebitda financial
"First-quarter adjusted EBITDA was $205 million."
Adjusted EBITDA is a way companies measure how much money they make from their core operations, like running a business, by removing certain costs or income that aren’t part of regular business activities. It helps investors see how well a company is doing without distractions from unusual expenses or gains, making it easier to compare companies or track performance over time.
adjusted free cash flow financial
"Consolidated adjusted free cash flow was negative $48 million in the first quarter"
Adjusted free cash flow is the amount of money a company generates from its operations after accounting for essential expenses and investments, like maintaining or upgrading equipment. It shows how much cash is truly available to grow the business, pay debts, or return to shareholders, helping investors see the company's financial health more clearly.
managed pressure drilling technical
"including Performance Software, Managed Pressure Drilling, and Surface & Tubulars"
A drilling technique that actively controls the pressure in the space around the drill bit to prevent uncontrolled fluid flows from underground and to keep the well stable as drilling goes deeper. Think of it like carefully adjusting the water level in a glass while dropping a pebble so the liquid never overflows; for investors, it reduces the risk of costly delays, accidents, or lost wells and can improve project timelines, safety records, and capital efficiency.
weighted average debt maturity financial
"Its weighted average debt maturity has been extended to more than five years."
Weighted average debt maturity is the average time it will take for a company's outstanding borrowings to come due, where each loan or bond is counted in proportion to its size. Think of it like averaging the due dates of a household’s bills but giving bigger bills more influence; investors use it to gauge when a company will need cash or refinancing and how exposed it is to interest-rate or liquidity pressure.

AI-generated analysis. Not financial advice.

HAMILTON, Bermuda, April 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Nabors Industries Ltd. ("Nabors" or the "Company") (NYSE: NBR) today reported first quarter 2026 operating revenues of $784 million. Net loss attributable to Nabors' shareholders for the quarter was $15 million, compared to net income of $10 million in the fourth quarter. First-quarter adjusted EBITDA was $205 million.

Selected Financial Information







(In millions, except rig activity)









Three Months Ended



March 31,


December 31,


March 31,



2026


2025


2025








Operating revenues


$            783.5


$            797.5


$            736.2








Adjusted EBITDA


$            204.8


$            221.6


$            206.3








Adjusted operating income


$              48.6


$              62.4


$              51.7








Adjusted free cash flow


$             (48.2)


$            131.8


$             (61.2)








Average rigs working:














Lower 48


65.3


59.8


60.6








International Drilling


92.6


93.3


85.0








Average total rigs working


167.9


162.9


153.2

 

1Q 2026 Highlights

  • The SANAD land drilling joint venture deployed one newbuild rig in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, bringing total newbuild deployments to 15. Four more are scheduled for 2026. In addition, SANAD reactivated one previously suspended rig, with a second resumption scheduled for the second quarter.
  • In the Lower 48 market, Nabors added four rigs during the first quarter. The Company's working rig count in this market currently stands at 66, reflecting an increase of eight rigs since November 2025.
  • Continuing its debt reduction initiatives, Nabors redeemed the remaining outstanding balance of its notes due in 2028, reducing total debt to $2.1 billion as of March 31, 2026. Since year-end 2024, the Company has reduced its total debt by $386 million. The Company's next debt maturity is $250 million due in 2029. Its weighted average debt maturity has been extended to more than five years.
  • Nabors received three awards at the Oil & Gas Middle East Awards 2026, including Service Partner of the Year, recognizing its reliability, innovation, digital drilling capabilities, and strong operator partnerships.

Anthony G. Petrello, Nabors Chairman, CEO and President, commented, "The conflict in the Middle East and its broader implications across global energy markets continue to reinforce the value of Nabors' portfolio and geographic diversification. While our business in that region was only modestly impacted in the first quarter, we are well positioned to respond to changes in activity levels across our markets, supported by our global fleet and operational flexibility.

"Nabors' first quarter results reflect continued improvement in Lower 48 activity, with another increase in rig count and fleet utilization. We believe we are gaining share in this market as clients increasingly prioritize high-specification rigs, integrated technology, and consistent operational execution in complex drilling environments. Our average rig count in the Lower 48 exceeded our growth expectations for the quarter, reflecting strong customer demand and contract visibility.

"In our International Drilling segment, we expanded activity across key markets. In Saudi Arabia we added two rigs. Another two rigs commenced operations in Latin America, one of which was an idle U.S. rig mobilized to Argentina under a long-term contract, demonstrating the flexibility of our asset base. Late in the quarter, we reactivated an offshore platform rig in Mexico, further increasing international utilization.

"Drilling Solutions' ("NDS") international business delivered sequential growth in the first quarter, with contributions across multiple product lines, including Performance Software, Managed Pressure Drilling, and Surface & Tubulars, which includes drilling equipment rentals. Our focus on NDS's international markets continues to gain traction. These markets account for approximately 65% of the segment's EBITDA, up from 31% in the first quarter of 2023, underscoring the increasing scale and profitability of our international footprint."

Segment Results

International Drilling adjusted EBITDA was $121 million in the first quarter, compared to $131 million in the fourth quarter of 2025. Average rig count declined slightly, as contract expirations were largely offset by recent startups and new deployments. Daily adjusted gross margin for the first quarter was $16,880, reflecting increased costs in the Middle East related to staffing and logistics, as well as higher operating expenses and activity interruptions in certain markets.

The U.S. Drilling segment reported first quarter adjusted EBITDA of $88 million, compared to $93 million in the previous quarter. Results in the Lower 48 improved with average rig count increasing 9% sequentially, reflecting stronger activity and improving fleet utilization. As expected, results from the Offshore and Alaska operations declined sequentially.

Drilling Solutions adjusted EBITDA was $39 million, compared to $41 million in the fourth quarter of 2025. Growth in international markets was offset by lower third-party activity in the U.S., mainly attributable to the decline in the U.S. third-party rig count.

Rig Technologies adjusted EBITDA was less than $1 million, compared to $5 million in the previous quarter. Aftermarket revenue declined sequentially, reflecting lower customer activity.  Sales were constrained by logistical challenges in the Middle East.

Adjusted Free Cash Flow

Consolidated adjusted free cash flow was negative $48 million in the first quarter, compared to negative $61 million in the first quarter of 2025, reflecting a $13 million improvement year-over-year. This was driven primarily by lower cash interest payments.

On a sequential basis, adjusted free cash flow declined from the fourth quarter primarily due to typical seasonal activity patterns and timing of receivables and payables, as well as higher cash interest payments in the first quarter. Fourth quarter of 2025 results also benefited from settlements of certain outstanding claims. Historically, the Company generates its strongest free cash flow in the fourth quarter.

Miguel Rodriguez, Nabors CFO, stated, "In the first quarter we delivered free cash flow above our expectations. On a consolidated basis, we exceeded our midpoint target by more than $35 million, reflecting consistent execution and stronger working capital performance than planned. This outperformance was primarily related to the Nabors businesses outside of the SANAD joint venture.

"Our full-year outlook for rig count in the Lower 48 has strengthened. We now expect to exit the second quarter with approximately 69 rigs running and to sustain that level through year-end 2026. Even with this higher activity, we expect to maintain our measured capital allocation approach, with full-year capital spending in the previously guided range of $730 to $760 million, including $360 to $380 million for the SANAD newbuilds.

"Our focus remains on further strengthening the balance sheet, while our consistent growth strategy supports long-term shareholder value creation."

Outlook

Nabors expects the following metrics for the second quarter of 2026:

U.S. Drilling               

  • Lower 48 average rig count of 67 - 68 rigs
  • Lower 48 daily adjusted gross margin of approximately $13,300
  • Alaska and Gulf of America combined adjusted EBITDA of approximately $15 million

International

  • Average rig count of 93 - 95 rigs
  • Daily adjusted gross margin of approximately $17,400 - $17,500

Drilling Solutions

  • Adjusted EBITDA of approximately $39 million

Rig Technologies

  • Adjusted EBITDA of approximately $3 million

Capital Expenditures

  • Capital expenditures of $180 - $190 million, including $75 - $80 million for newbuilds in Saudi Arabia

Adjusted Free Cash Flow

  • Adjusted free cash flow of approximately $10 million, including free cash consumption at SANAD of approximately $10 million

Mr. Petrello concluded, "Looking ahead to the remainder of the year, we see continued growth opportunities across both our U.S. and International Drilling businesses. This outlook is supported by contracted rig additions in each segment, which provide increased visibility into activity levels. Our disciplined approach to improving free cash flow is reflected in our first-quarter results, and we are positioned to deliver further improvements as we execute throughout the year."

About Nabors Industries

Nabors Industries (NYSE: NBR) is a leading provider of advanced technology for the energy industry. With presence in more than 20 countries, Nabors has established a global network of people, technology and equipment to deploy solutions that deliver safe, efficient and responsible energy production. By leveraging its core competencies, particularly in drilling, engineering, automation, data science and manufacturing, Nabors aims to innovate the future of energy and enable the transition to a lower-carbon world. Learn more about Nabors and its energy technology leadership: www.nabors.com.

Forward-looking Statements

The information included in this press release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Such forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, as disclosed by Nabors from time to time in its filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. As a result of these factors, Nabors' actual results may differ materially from those indicated or implied by such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release reflect management's estimates and beliefs as of the date of this press release. Nabors does not undertake to update these forward-looking statements. 

Non-GAAP Disclaimer

This press release presents certain "non-GAAP" financial measures. The components of these non-GAAP measures are computed by using amounts that are determined in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP"). Adjusted operating income (loss) represents income (loss) before income taxes, interest expense, investment income (loss), gain on disposition of Quail Tools, gain on bargain purchase, and other, net. Adjusted EBITDA is computed similarly, but also excludes depreciation and amortization expenses. Adjusted gross margin represents adjusted operating income (loss) plus general and administrative costs, research and engineering costs and depreciation and amortization. In addition, adjusted EBITDA and adjusted operating income (loss) exclude certain cash expenses that the Company is obligated to make. Net debt is calculated as total debt minus the sum of cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments. 

Adjusted free cash flow represents net cash provided by operating activities less cash used for capital expenditures, net of proceeds from sales of assets, and before cash paid for acquisition-related costs. Management believes that adjusted free cash flow is an important liquidity measure for the company and that it is useful to investors and management as a measure of the company's ability to generate cash flow, after reinvesting in the company for future growth, that could be available for paying down debt or other financing cash flows, such as dividends to shareholders. Adjusted free cash flow does not represent the residual cash flow available for discretionary expenditures. Adjusted free cash flow is a non-GAAP financial measure that should be considered in addition to, not as a substitute for or superior to, cash flow from operations reported in accordance with GAAP.

Each of these non-GAAP measures has limitations and therefore should not be used in isolation or as a substitute for the amounts reported in accordance with GAAP. However, management evaluates the performance of its operating segments and the consolidated Company based on several criteria, including Adjusted EBITDA, adjusted operating income (loss), net debt, and adjusted free cash flow, because it believes that these financial measures accurately reflect the Company's ongoing profitability, performance and liquidity. Securities analysts and investors also use these measures as some of the metrics on which they analyze the Company's performance. Other companies in this industry may compute these measures differently. Reconciliations of consolidated adjusted EBITDA and adjusted operating income (loss) to income (loss) before income taxes, net debt to total debt, and adjusted free cash flow to net cash provided by operations, which are their nearest comparable GAAP financial measures, are included in the tables at the end of this press release. We do not provide a forward-looking reconciliation of our outlook for Segment Adjusted EBITDA, Segment Gross Margin or Adjusted Free Cash Flow, as the amount and significance of items required to develop meaningful comparable GAAP financial measures cannot be estimated at this time without unreasonable efforts. These special items could be meaningful. 

Investor Contacts:  William C. Conroy, CFA, Vice President of Corporate Development & Investor Relations, +1 281-775-2423 or via e-mail william.conroy@nabors.com, or Kara Peak, Director of Corporate Development & Investor Relations, +1 281-775-4954 or via email kara.peak@nabors.com. To request investor materials, contact Nabors' corporate headquarters in Hamilton, Bermuda at +441-292-1510 or via e-mail mark.andrews@nabors.com

 

NABORS INDUSTRIES LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (LOSS)

(Unaudited)










Three Months Ended



March 31,


December 31,

(In thousands, except per share amounts)


2026


2025


2025








Revenues and other income:







Operating revenues 


$ 783,548


$ 736,186


$        797,529

Investment income (loss)


2,887


6,596


7,600

Total revenues and other income


786,435


742,782


805,129








Costs and other deductions:







Direct costs


493,469


447,300


486,367

General and administrative expenses


71,760


68,506


76,279

Research and engineering


13,506


14,035


13,328

Depreciation and amortization


156,186


154,638


159,188

Interest expense


43,761


54,326


50,625

Gain on disposition of Quail Tools


-


-


1,595

Gain on bargain purchase


-


(112,999)


2,846

Other, net


(13,393)


44,790


(9,532)

Total costs and other deductions


765,289


670,596


780,696








Income (loss) before income taxes


21,146


72,186


24,433

Income tax expense (benefit)


16,884


15,007


7,440








Net income (loss)


4,262


57,179


16,993

Less: Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest


(19,428)


(24,191)


(6,645)

Net income (loss) attributable to Nabors


$  (15,166)


$   32,988


$          10,348








Earnings (losses) per share:







   Basic 


$      (1.54)


$       2.35


$              0.17

   Diluted 


$      (1.54)


$       2.18


$              0.17








Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding:







   Basic 


14,213


10,460


14,131

   Diluted 


14,213


11,671


14,210















Adjusted EBITDA


$ 204,813


$ 206,345


$        221,555








Adjusted operating income (loss)


$   48,627


$   51,707


$          62,367

 

NABORS INDUSTRIES LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Unaudited)








March 31,


December 31,

(In thousands)


2026


2025






ASSETS





Current assets:





Cash and short-term investments


$     500,853


$        940,738

Accounts receivable, net


417,717


391,705

Other current assets


234,031


219,130

     Total current assets


1,152,601


1,551,573

Property, plant and equipment, net


2,914,886


2,920,019

Other long-term assets


318,149


318,065

     Total assets


$  4,385,636


$     4,789,657






LIABILITIES AND EQUITY





Current liabilities:





Current debt


$                 -


$        377,492

Trade accounts payable


322,837


300,467

Other current liabilities


262,378


315,042

     Total current liabilities


585,215


993,001

Long-term debt


2,118,729


2,117,187

Other long-term liabilities


240,163


241,826

     Total liabilities


2,944,107


3,352,014






Redeemable noncontrolling interest in subsidiary


489,129


482,446






Equity:





Shareholders' equity


568,942


590,727

Noncontrolling interest


383,458


364,470

     Total equity


952,400


955,197

     Total liabilities and equity


$  4,385,636


$     4,789,657

 

NABORS INDUSTRIES LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

SEGMENT REPORTING

(Unaudited)









The following tables set forth certain information with respect to our reportable segments and rig activity:




















Three Months Ended




March 31,


December 31,

(In thousands, except rig activity)


2026


2025


2025









Operating revenues:








U.S. Drilling


$ 241,144


$ 230,746


$       240,624


International Drilling


419,496


381,718


423,842


Drilling Solutions


106,222


93,179


107,879


Rig Technologies (1)


27,222


44,165


37,747


Other reconciling items (2)


(10,536)


(13,622)


(12,563)


Total operating revenues


$ 783,548


$ 736,186


$        797,529









Adjusted EBITDA: (3)








U.S. Drilling


$   88,065


$   92,711


$          93,213


International Drilling


121,281


115,486


131,262


Drilling Solutions


38,662


40,853


41,302


Rig Technologies (1)


505


5,563


4,946


Other reconciling items (4)


(43,700)


(48,268)


(49,168)


Total adjusted EBITDA


$ 204,813


$ 206,345


$        221,555









Adjusted operating income (loss): (5)








U.S. Drilling


$   24,624


$   31,599


$          28,556


International Drilling


40,757


32,958


49,638


Drilling Solutions


31,872


32,913


34,022


Rig Technologies (1)


(1,888)


4,335


1,341


Other reconciling items (4)


(46,738)


(50,098)


(51,190)


Total adjusted operating income (loss)


$   48,627


$   51,707


$          62,367









Rig activity:







Average Rigs Working: (7)








     Lower 48


65.3


60.6


59.8


     Other US


10.0


7.6


9.8


U.S. Drilling


75.3


68.2


69.6


International Drilling


92.6


85.0


93.3


Total average rigs working


167.9


153.2


162.9









Daily Rig Revenue: (6),(8)








     Lower 48


$   32,653


$   34,546


$          32,938


     Other US


54,646


61,361


66,003


U.S. Drilling (10)


35,573


37,557


37,582


International Drilling


50,351


49,895


49,391









Daily Adjusted Gross Margin: (6),(9)








     Lower 48


$   13,177


$   14,276


$          13,303


     Other US


19,559


30,374


29,557


U.S. Drilling (10)


14,024


16,084


15,586


International Drilling


16,880


17,421


17,630



(1)

Includes our oilfield equipment manufacturing activities.









(2)

Represents the elimination of inter-segment transactions related to our Rig Technologies operating segment.









(3)

Adjusted EBITDA represents net income (loss) before income tax expense (benefit), investment income (loss), interest expense, gain on disposition of Quail Tools, gain on bargain purchase, other, net and depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure and should not be used in isolation or as a substitute for the amounts reported in accordance with GAAP. In addition, adjusted EBITDA excludes certain cash expenses that the Company is obligated to make. However, management evaluates the performance of its operating segments and the consolidated Company based on several criteria, including adjusted EBITDA and adjusted operating income (loss), because it believes that these financial measures accurately reflect the Company's ongoing profitability and performance.  Securities analysts and investors use this measure as one of the metrics on which they analyze the Company's performance. Other companies in this industry may compute these measures differently.  A reconciliation of this non-GAAP measure to net income (loss), which is the most closely comparable GAAP measure, is provided in the table set forth immediately following the heading "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures to Net Income (Loss)".









(4)

Represents the elimination of inter-segment transactions and unallocated corporate expenses.









(5)

Adjusted operating income (loss) represents net income (loss) before income tax expense (benefit), investment income (loss), interest expense, gain on disposition of Quail Tools, gain on bargain purchase and other, net. Adjusted operating income (loss) is a non-GAAP financial measure and should not be used in isolation or as a substitute for the amounts reported in accordance with GAAP. In addition, adjusted operating income (loss) excludes certain cash expenses that the Company is obligated to make. However, management evaluates the performance of its operating segments and the consolidated Company based on several criteria, including adjusted EBITDA and adjusted operating income (loss), because it believes that these financial measures accurately reflect the Company's ongoing profitability and performance.  Securities analysts and investors use this measure as one of the metrics on which they analyze the Company's performance. Other companies in this industry may compute these measures differently.  A reconciliation of this non-GAAP measure to net income (loss), which is the most closely comparable GAAP measure, is provided in the table set forth immediately following the heading "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures to Net Income (Loss)".









(6)

Rig revenue days represents the number of days the Company's rigs are contracted and performing under a contract during the period. These would typically include days in which operating, standby and move revenue is earned.









(7)

Average rigs working represents a measure of the average number of rigs operating during a given period. For example, one rig operating 45 days during a quarter represents approximately 0.5 average rigs working for the quarter. On an annual period, one rig operating 182.5 days represents approximately 0.5 average rigs working for the year.  Average rigs working can also be calculated as rig revenue days during the period divided by the number of calendar days in the period.









(8)

Daily rig revenue represents operating revenue, divided by the total number of revenue days during the quarter.   









(9)

Daily adjusted gross margin represents operating revenue less direct costs, divided by the total number of rig revenue days during the quarter.   









(10)

The U.S. Drilling segment includes the Lower 48, Alaska, and Gulf of Mexico operating areas.

 

NABORS INDUSTRIES LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Reconciliation of Earnings per Share

(Unaudited)











Three Months Ended 


March 31,


December 31,

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

2026


2025


2025



BASIC EPS:









Net income (loss) (numerator):









Income (loss), net of tax

$

4,262


$

57,179


$

16,993

Less: net (income) loss attributable to
noncontrolling interest


(19,428)



(24,191)



(6,645)

Less: deemed dividends to SPAC public
shareholders






(250)

Less: distributed and undistributed earnings
allocated to unvested shareholders




(1,177)



(301)

Less: accrued distribution on redeemable
noncontrolling interest in subsidiary


(6,683)



(7,184)



(7,344)

Numerator for basic earnings per share:









Adjusted income (loss), net of tax - basic

$

(21,849)


$

24,627


$

2,453










Weighted-average number of shares outstanding -
basic


14,213



10,460



14,131

Earnings (losses) per share:









Total Basic

$

(1.54)


$

2.35


$

0.17










DILUTED EPS:









Adjusted income (loss), net of tax - basic

$

(21,849)


$

24,627


$

2,453

Add: after tax interest expense of convertible notes




848



Add: effect of reallocating undistributed earnings of
unvested shareholders




4



1

Adjusted income (loss), net of tax - diluted

$

(21,849)


$

25,479


$

2,454










Weighted-average number of shares outstanding -
basic


14,213



10,460



14,131

Add: if converted dilutive effect of convertible notes




1,176



Add: dilutive effect of potential common shares




35



79

Weighted-average number of shares outstanding -
diluted 


14,213



11,671



14,210

Earnings (losses) per share:









Total Diluted

$

(1.54)


$

2.18


$

0.17

 

NABORS INDUSTRIES LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

RECONCILIATION OF ADJUSTED EBITDA BY SEGMENT TO ADJUSTED OPERATING INCOME (LOSS) BY SEGMENT

(Unaudited)














(In thousands)















Three Months Ended March 31, 2026



U.S.
Drilling


International
Drilling


Drilling
Solutions


Rig
Technologies


Other
reconciling
items


Total














Adjusted operating income (loss)


$24,624


$        40,757


$  31,872


$          (1,888)


$   (46,738)


$   48,627

Depreciation and amortization 


63,441


80,524


6,790


2,393


3,038


156,186

Adjusted EBITDA


$88,065


$      121,281


$  38,662


$               505


$   (43,700)


$ 204,813





























Three Months Ended March 31, 2025



U.S.
Drilling


International
Drilling


Drilling
Solutions


Rig
Technologies


Other
reconciling
items


Total














Adjusted operating income (loss)


$31,599


$        32,958


$  32,913


$            4,335


$   (50,098)


$   51,707

Depreciation and amortization 


61,112


82,528


7,940


1,228


1,830


154,638

Adjusted EBITDA


$92,711


$      115,486


$  40,853


$            5,563


$   (48,268)


$ 206,345





























Three Months Ended December 31, 2025



U.S.
Drilling


International
Drilling


Drilling
Solutions


Rig
Technologies


Other
reconciling
items


Total














Adjusted operating income (loss)


$28,556


$        49,638


$  34,022


$            1,341


$   (51,190)


$   62,367

Depreciation and amortization 


64,657


81,624


7,280


3,605


2,022


159,188

Adjusted EBITDA


$93,213


$      131,262


$  41,302


$            4,946


$   (49,168)


$ 221,555

 

NABORS INDUSTRIES LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

RECONCILIATION OF ADJUSTED GROSS MARGIN BY SEGMENT TO ADJUSTED
OPERATING INCOME (LOSS) BY SEGMENT

(Unaudited)












Three Months Ended




March 31,


December 31,

(In thousands)


2026


2025


2025









Lower 48 - U.S. Drilling








Adjusted operating income (loss)


$   17,405


$   18,995


$          13,015


Plus: General and administrative costs


5,324


4,817


4,874


Plus: Research and engineering


1,143


823


1,199


GAAP Gross Margin


23,872


24,635


19,088


Plus: Depreciation and amortization


53,595


53,225


54,123


Adjusted gross margin


$   77,467


$   77,860


$          73,211









Other - U.S. Drilling








Adjusted operating income (loss)


$     7,219


$   12,604


$          15,541


Plus: General and administrative costs


458


405


416


Plus: Research and engineering


80


62


90


GAAP Gross Margin


7,757


13,071


16,047


Plus: Depreciation and amortization


9,846


7,887


10,534


Adjusted gross margin


$   17,603


$   20,958


$          26,581









U.S. Drilling








Adjusted operating income (loss)


$   24,624


$   31,599


$          28,556


Plus: General and administrative costs


5,782


5,222


5,290


Plus: Research and engineering


1,223


885


1,289


GAAP Gross Margin


31,629


37,706


35,135


Plus: Depreciation and amortization


63,441


61,112


64,657


Adjusted gross margin


$   95,070


$   98,818


$          99,792









International Drilling








Adjusted operating income (loss)


$   40,757


$   32,958


$          49,638


Plus: General and administrative costs


17,609


16,378


18,207


Plus: Research and engineering


1,749


1,414


1,821


GAAP Gross Margin


60,115


50,750


69,666


Plus: Depreciation and amortization


80,524


82,528


81,624


Adjusted gross margin


$ 140,639


$ 133,278


$        151,290


Adjusted gross margin by segment represents adjusted operating income (loss) plus general and administrative costs, research and engineering costs and depreciation and amortization.

 

NABORS INDUSTRIES LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES TO NET INCOME (LOSS)

(Unaudited)










Three Months Ended



March 31,


December 31,

(In thousands)


2026


2025


2025








Net income (loss)


$     4,262


$   57,179


$          16,993

Income tax expense (benefit)


16,884


15,007


7,440

Income (loss) before income taxes


21,146


72,186


24,433

Investment (income) loss


(2,887)


(6,596)


(7,600)

Interest expense


43,761


54,326


50,625

Gain on disposition of Quail Tools


-


-


1,595

Gain on bargain purchase


-


(112,999)


2,846

Other, net


(13,393)


44,790


(9,532)

Adjusted operating income (loss) (1)


48,627


51,707


62,367

Depreciation and amortization 


156,186


154,638


159,188

Adjusted EBITDA (2)


$ 204,813


$ 206,345


$       221,555


(1) Adjusted operating income (loss) represents net income (loss) before income tax expense (benefit), investment income (loss), interest expense, gain on disposition of Quail Tools, gain on bargain purchase and other, net. Adjusted operating income (loss) is a non-GAAP financial measure and should not be used in isolation or as a substitute for the amounts reported in accordance with GAAP. In addition, adjusted operating income (loss) excludes certain cash expenses that the Company is obligated to make. However, management evaluates the performance of its operating segments and the consolidated Company based on several criteria, including adjusted EBITDA and adjusted operating income (loss), because it believes that these financial measures accurately reflect the Company's ongoing profitability and performance.  Securities analysts and investors use this measure as one of the metrics on which they analyze the Company's performance. Other companies in this industry may compute these measures differently.  








(2) Adjusted EBITDA represents net income (loss) before income tax expense (benefit), investment income (loss), interest expense, gain on disposition of Quail Tools, gain on bargain purchase, other, net and depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure and should not be used in isolation or as a substitute for the amounts reported in accordance with GAAP. In addition, adjusted EBITDA excludes certain cash expenses that the Company is obligated to make. However, management evaluates the performance of its operating segments and the consolidated Company based on several criteria, including adjusted EBITDA and adjusted operating income (loss), because it believes that these financial measures accurately reflect the Company's ongoing profitability and performance.  Securities analysts and investors use this measure as one of the metrics on which they analyze the Company's performance. Other companies in this industry may compute these measures differently.  

 

NABORS INDUSTRIES LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

RECONCILIATION OF NET DEBT TO TOTAL DEBT

(Unaudited)








March 31,


December 31,

(In thousands)


2026


2025






Current debt


$                 -


$        377,492

Long-term debt


2,118,729


2,117,187

     Total Debt


2,118,729


2,494,679

Less: Cash and short-term investments


500,853


940,738

     Net Debt


$  1,617,876


$     1,553,941

 

NABORS INDUSTRIES LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

RECONCILIATION OF ADJUSTED FREE CASH FLOW TO

NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES

(Unaudited)





Three Months Ended



March 31,


December 31,

(In thousands)


2026


2025


2025








Net cash provided by operating activities


$ 113,339


$  87,735


$       245,841

Add: Capital expenditures, net of proceeds from sales
of assets


(161,558)


(159,161)


(114,043)








Free cash flow


$ (48,219)


$(71,426)


$       131,798








Cash paid for acquisition related costs (1)


-


10,181


-








Adjusted free cash flow


$ (48,219)


$(61,245)


$       131,798








(1) Cash paid related to the Parker Drilling acquisition








Adjusted free cash flow represents net cash provided by operating activities less cash used for capital expenditures, net of proceeds from sales of assets, and before cash paid for acquisition related costs. Management believes that adjusted free cash flow is an important liquidity measure for the company and that it is useful to investors and management as a measure of the company's ability to generate cash flow, after reinvesting in the company for future growth, that could be available for paying down debt or other financing cash flows, such as dividends to shareholders. Adjusted free cash flow does not represent the residual cash flow available for discretionary expenditures. Adjusted free cash flow is a non-GAAP financial measure that should be considered in addition to, not as a substitute for or superior to, cash flow from operations reported in accordance with GAAP.

 

Cision View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/disciplined-execution-durable-momentum-nabors-1q-2026-302756186.html

SOURCE Nabors Industries Ltd.

FAQ

What were Nabors' key 1Q 2026 financial results (NBR)?

Nabors reported $784M operating revenues, a $15M net loss, and $205M adjusted EBITDA. According to the company, consolidated adjusted free cash flow was negative $48.2M and total debt stood at $2.1B at quarter end.

How many rigs did Nabors average in 1Q 2026 and where (NBR)?

Nabors averaged 167.9 total rigs, with 65.3 in the Lower 48 and 92.6 international. According to the company, deployments included newbuilds in Saudi Arabia and incremental Lower 48 additions during the quarter.

What is Nabors' debt and maturity status after 1Q 2026 (NBR)?

Total debt was reduced to $2.1B and the company redeemed remaining 2028 notes. According to the company, the weighted average debt maturity has been extended to more than five years and next maturity is $250M due 2029.

What guidance did Nabors provide for 2Q 2026 (NBR)?

The company expects Lower 48 average rigs of 67–68, international rigs 93–95, and Q2 capex of $180–190M. According to the company, Q2 adjusted free cash flow is expected to be approximately $10M.

How did Nabors' segments perform in 1Q 2026 (NBR)?

International Drilling adjusted EBITDA was $121M, U.S. Drilling $88M, and Drilling Solutions $39M. According to the company, international margins were affected by higher Middle East costs and activity interruptions in some markets.