OPEC+ to raise output by 548,000 bpd in August as market outlook improves

The planned output hike is part of a broader, gradual return of 2.2 million barrels per day of voluntary cuts announced in December 2024. Reuters
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Updated 06 July 2025
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OPEC+ to raise output by 548,000 bpd in August as market outlook improves

RIYADH: Eight members of the OPEC+ alliance of oil exporting nations say they will boost oil production by 548,000 barrels per day in August in a move that could further reduce gas prices this year.

The decision came after a virtual meeting on July 5, where the group — comprising Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iraq, the UAE, Kuwait, Kazakhstan, Algeria, and Oman — reviewed global market conditions and cited a steady economic outlook and low oil inventories as reasons for the increase.

The planned output hike is part of a broader, gradual return of 2.2 million barrels per day of voluntary cuts announced in December 2024. Under that agreement, the eight producers began easing their curbs in April 2025, with the August increase representing the equivalent of four scheduled monthly increments.

OPEC+ emphasized that the gradual ramp-up remains flexible and could be paused or reversed if market conditions warrant. This adaptive approach, the group said, aims to safeguard oil market stability amid evolving global dynamics.

In addition to the production increase, the eight countries reaffirmed their commitment to full compliance with the alliance’s Declaration of Cooperation. They also pledged to compensate for any overproduction since January 2024, with oversight provided by the Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee.

Monthly meetings will continue to assess supply, demand, and conformity. The next gathering is scheduled for Aug. 3, when members will decide on production levels for September.


PIF-backed AviLease achieves revenue of $664m and 19% growth in 2025

Updated 27 February 2026
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PIF-backed AviLease achieves revenue of $664m and 19% growth in 2025

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund-backed AviLease achieved exceptional performance and sustainable business growth during 2025, supported by the strategic expansion of its global platform.

According to its financial results for 2025, AviLease recorded total revenues of $664 million, an annual increase of 19 percent, driven by disciplined growth in its asset portfolio and strong performance in aircraft remarketing amid sustained global demand for modern, fuel-efficient aircraft, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Profit before tax doubled compared to the previous year, reaching $122 million. The year witnessed an expansion in AviLease’s portfolio, reaching 202 owned and managed aircraft, leased to over 50 airline companies in more than 30 countries. 

The total value of the company’s assets stabilized at $9.3 billion. AviLease maintained a 100 percent fleet utilization rate, reflecting the resilience of its business model, the efficiency of its asset management, and the strength of its strategic relationships with airlines around the world.

AviLease concluded purchase agreements for aircraft from Airbus, including the A320neo family and A350F, and Boeing 737 aircraft, aiming to enhance its future asset portfolio with modern, fuel-efficient aircraft. This step will contribute to supporting future growth and meeting increasing customer demand for the latest aircraft, aligning with the Kingdom’s ambitions to become a leading global aviation hub.

AviLease strengthened its prestigious credit standing by obtaining a strong Baa2 credit ratings from Moody’s and BBB from Fitch, reflecting its financial solidity, managerial discipline, and efficiency in managing leverage. The company also successfully issued senior unsecured bonds worth $850 million last November under Regulation 144A/RegS. This issuance contributed to diversifying its funding sources and enhancing its financial flexibility.

Commenting on the results, AviLease CEO Edward O’Byrne said: “This exceptional performance reflects the quality of the company’s investment portfolio, the strength of its partnerships with airlines, and its strategic focus on responsibly deploying capital into highly sought-after, efficient, modern aircraft assets.”

He added: “As aviation markets continue to grow, AviLease is strategically positioned to continue its expansion plans and deliver sustainable long-term value for shareholders, contributing to the Kingdom’s ambitions.”

Throughout 2025, AviLease continued to play a pivotal role in the Kingdom’s growing aviation sector and contributed directly to the launch and scaling of the new national carrier, Riyadh Air, by completing a sale and leaseback transaction for a Boeing 787-9 aircraft, which thereby became the first aircraft to join the airline’s fleet.

AviLease also established a strategic partnership with Hassana Investment Co. This partnership aims to provide an opportunity for local and international investors to enter the aircraft financing asset class and benefit from AviLease’s technical expertise and operational capabilities to support partnership growth and enhance performance. 

Hassana Investment Co. has agreed to acquire an initial portfolio of 10 modern aircraft from AviLease.