Noble Corporation plc reported its financial results for the first quarter of 2026, revealing a net income of $120.7 million, or $0.75 per diluted share, compared to a net income of $108.3 million, or $0.67 per diluted share, in the same period last year. Operating revenues for the quarter totaled $785.7 million, a decrease of 10% from $874.5 million in the first quarter of 2025. The decline in revenue was primarily attributed to a reduction in contract drilling services revenue, which fell to $742.6 million from $832.4 million, reflecting a decrease in operating days and changes in rig utilization.
The company's operating costs and expenses also decreased, totaling $560.4 million for the quarter, down from $687.1 million in the prior year. Notably, contract drilling services costs decreased to $450.1 million from $462.1 million, while general and administrative expenses fell significantly by 15% to $30.0 million. The company also reported a pre-tax gain of $89.5 million from the sale of several rigs, contributing positively to its operating income, which increased by 20% to $225.3 million.
In terms of operational metrics, Noble's average rig utilization for the quarter was 69%, down from 74% in the previous year. The average dayrate for floaters increased to $422,076, while jackups saw an increase to $184,807. The company’s fleet consisted of 31 drilling rigs, including 25 floaters and 6 jackups, with a total contract drilling services backlog of approximately $7.2 billion as of March 31, 2026.
Strategically, Noble has been active in managing its debt, redeeming $55 million of its 8.500% Senior Secured Second Lien Notes due 2030 during the quarter. The company also maintained a strong cash position, with cash and cash equivalents rising to $662.7 million from $471.4 million at the end of 2025. Looking ahead, Noble anticipates continued demand for its high-specification floaters and jackups, despite some near-term challenges in rig utilization and market volatility. The company plans to fund its capital expenditures, estimated between $615 million and $665 million for the year, primarily through cash generated from operations and existing cash reserves.
About Noble Corp plc
Noble Corporation plc is a global offshore drilling contractor providing contract drilling services for oil and gas exploration and production. Its fleet includes ultra-deepwater drillships, semisubmersibles, and high-specification jackups, serving major markets worldwide. The company focuses on high-quality, technologically advanced rigs, safety, and environmental responsibility, competing primarily on technical capability, safety record, and customer relationships in a cyclical, competitive industry.
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