Saudi Arabia's state-owned oil giant, Aramco (TADAWUL:2222), has announced the discovery of 14 new oil and natural gas fields and reservoirs located in the Eastern Province and the Rub' al Khali, or the Empty Quarter. The announcement, reported by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), represents a significant development for the country's energy sector and reinforces its global influence as a leading oil producer.

In 2024, the growth rate of coal-fired plants reached its lowest level in the last 20 years, with an increase of just 18.8 gigawatts. Nevertheless, China and India continue to offset the closure of coal plants in other countries, maintaining their positions in the coal energy sector. According to the American analysis center, Global Energy Monitor (GEM), although the pace of growth is sluggish, the coal industry remains buoyant.

BGC Group Inc., a financial company controlled by the family of billionaire Howard Lutnick, has taken a significant step in the energy and commodities market. The firm has acquired the brokerage company OTC Global Holdings for $325 million in cash. This acquisition underscores BGC's commitment to expand its presence in rapidly evolving sectors.

Amid global efforts to transition to sustainable energy sources, New Zealand faces an unexpected setback. The country’s regulatory body has rejected Contact Energy’s application for the construction of a 330 megawatt wind farm in Southland. This decision raises concerns among experts and the business community, highlighting the challenges companies face in the renewable energy sector.

In recent years, the global economy has increasingly focused on sustainable development and clean energy sources. This focus has led to new major deals in the energy sector, such as the recent agreement between Germany's leading energy company, RWE (RWEG.DE), and the French oil giant, TotalEnergies (TTEF.PA).

CK Infrastructure Holdings Ltd. $1038.HK is considering the acquisition of the British waste management company Viridor Ltd., supported by the investment firm KKR & Co. $KKR. This deal could represent a significant step in the waste management and energy sectors in the UK.