Navigating the Lithium Landscape: Expertise is Key in Complex Mergers
By Steven Thomas
💬 41 | 290 hours ago | 5 min read
Combining two multinational corporations, each with its own operational nuances, geographical footprints, and corporate cultures, presents a formidable challenge. The successful integration of Allkem and Livent required a symphony of expertise, from legal and financial advisors to operational and logistical specialists.

Why the UK Should Take a Pragmatic Approach to LetterOne’s Stake in Harbour Energy
By Steven Thomas
💬 124 | 726 hours ago | 5 min read
The recent headlines surrounding LetterOne’s 15% stake in Harbour Energy have reignited debate about foreign influence in the UK energy sector. While concerns over sanctioned Russian individuals—namely Mikhail Fridman and Petr Aven—are understandable, much of the reaction is misinformed. The reality is that LetterOne’s involvement is both legal and limited in influence, and, crucially, supports the long-term strength of UK energy security.

How the Oil and Gas Industry Has Changed: 2025 Insights on the Role of IOCs, NOCs, and the Future of Energy
By Steven Thomas
💬 12 | 17 hours ago | 5 min read
The global oil and gas sector in 2025 bears little resemblance to its state four decades ago. With National Oil Companies (NOCs) now controlling over 90% of global hydrocarbon reserves and responsible for an estimated 55% of global oil and gas production, International Oil Companies (IOCs) like Shell, Chevron, and TotalEnergies are operating in a radically transformed marketplace. From geopolitical instability to energy transition pressures, IOCs are facing mounting challenges—and adapting fast.

Dual Approach to Energy Deals
By Steven Thomas
💬 32 | 108 hours ago | 5 min read
Navigating energy sector deals with a blended strategy. We examine the Strategic Collaboration Model—how industry leaders balance competitive positioning with high-stakes partnerships.

Strategic Complexity in Extractive Industry Negotiations
By Steven Thomas
💬 106 | 212 hours ago | 5 min read
Why governments must lead with strategy, not just fiscal terms, when negotiating mining and oil agreements.

Koch Industries: A Masterclass in Private-Enterprise Strategy
By Steven Thomas
💬 41 | 290 hours ago | 5 min read
Koch Industries’ evolution from a mid-century engineering firm into a diversified industrial conglomerate is one of the more compelling—if underreported—corporate transformations in modern business history.

How Scarcity, Geopolitics, and ESG Pressures Are Redefining Critical Mineral Supply Contracts
By Steven Thomas
💬 19 | 261 hours ago | 5 min read
As the global shift toward clean energy accelerates, the demand for critical minerals—lithium, cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements—has surged dramatically.