Schlumberger Limited (SLB): History, Ownership, Mission, How It Works & Makes Money

Ever wondered how Schlumberger Limited (SLB), a giant in the oilfield services industry, operates and generates its impressive revenue? With a $46.22 billion market cap as of April 10, 2025, and a commanding 29.6% market share in the Oil and Gas Drilling Equipment Manufacturing industry, it's clear that SLB holds a significant position. But what exactly is the history behind this influential company, who owns it, and what's its mission? Keep reading to discover the inner workings of SLB, from its innovative technologies to its strategic approach to making money.

Schlumberger Limited (SLB) History

Schlumberger's Founding Timeline

Year established

Schlumberger was formally established in 1926.

Original location

The company's origins are rooted in France.

Founding team members

The company was founded by brothers Conrad and Marcel Schlumberger.

Initial capital/funding

Details on the initial capital or funding are not widely or readily specified in historical accounts, which tend to focus more on the technical expertise and innovative approach the Schlumberger brothers brought to the field of geophysical exploration.

Schlumberger's Evolution Milestones

Schlumberger's Transformative Moments

• Early Innovation in Electrical Logging: The invention and implementation of electrical logging in the 1920s was a transformative moment. This technology allowed for the detailed mapping of subsurface formations, providing crucial data for oil exploration and production.
• Geographic Expansion: The strategic decision to move the company's headquarters to Houston in 1934, closer to the heart of the global oil industry, significantly boosted its growth and market influence.
• Strategic Acquisitions: Acquisitions such as Sedco Forex and, more recently, Smith International in 2010 and Cameron International in 2016, have expanded Schlumberger's service offerings and market presence, allowing it to provide comprehensive solutions across the oil and gas value chain. The Smith International acquisition was valued at $11.3 billion, while the Cameron International acquisition was valued at approximately $14.8 billion.
• Focus on Digital and Sustainable Solutions: In recent years, Schlumberger has emphasized digital transformation and sustainability, aligning with the industry's evolving needs for efficiency and environmental stewardship.

To gain more insights into the values that drive Schlumberger, see: Mission Statement, Vision, & Core Values of Schlumberger Limited (SLB).

Schlumberger Limited (SLB) Ownership Structure

Schlumberger Limited operates as a public company with a diverse ownership base, including institutional and individual investors.

Schlumberger's Current Status

Schlumberger Limited is a publicly traded company, meaning its shares are available for purchase on stock exchanges. This allows a wide range of investors to own a portion of the company. As of 2024, Schlumberger is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the ticker symbol SLB.

Schlumberger's Ownership Breakdown

The ownership of Schlumberger is distributed among various shareholders, including institutional investors, mutual funds, and individual investors. The following table provides an overview of the company's ownership structure:

Schlumberger's Leadership

Schlumberger's direction is guided by a team of experienced leaders. As of April 2025, key figures include:

• Olivier Le Peuch: Chief Executive Officer
• Stephane Biguet: Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

These individuals, along with other members of the executive team and board of directors, are instrumental in setting the strategic direction and overseeing the operations. More information about Schlumberger's values can be found at Mission Statement, Vision, & Core Values of Schlumberger Limited (SLB).

Schlumberger Limited (SLB) Mission and Values

SLB's mission is centered around technological innovation and providing global energy solutions, with a commitment to creating amazing technology that unlocks access to energy for the benefit of all, while its values emphasize innovation, sustainability, safety, diversity, and ethical practices.

SLB's Core Purpose

Official mission statement

SLB's mission statement focuses on technological innovation and global energy solutions with precision and expertise.

• SLB is committed to excellence in everything it seeks to do, aiming to conduct business consistently and transparently with all clients.
• Knowledge, technical innovation, and teamwork are central to SLB.
• For over 8 years, SLB has focused on leveraging these assets to deliver solutions that improve customer performance.

Vision statement

SLB's vision focuses on technological innovation in energy exploration, production, and transformation. As of 2024, the company aims to deliver advanced digital and AI-powered solutions for global energy challenges.

• SLB is targeting $1.5 billion in digital technology investments for 2024, with an emphasis on AI and machine learning integration in energy services.
• SLB's vision is built upon the pioneering spirit of Conrad and Marcel Schlumberger, who sought to understand the Earth's subsurface structure using geophysical measurements.
• The company's technology continues to thrive on industry leadership and innovation.

Company slogan/tagline

• 'For a balanced planet' is central to SLB's purpose and culture.
• This tagline underscores SLB's commitment to moving faster in facilitating the world's energy needs and forging the road ahead for the energy transition.

SLB is a global technology company driving energy innovation for a balanced planet.

SLB is committed to reducing carbon emissions by 30% by 2025, has invested $450 million in low-carbon technologies, and achieved 25% renewable energy usage in operations.

SLB invested $1.358 billion in research and development in 2023 and filed 572 new patents in 2022-2023.

SLB aims to have net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

SLB's emissions reduction strategy is central to its identity and vision, with a commitment to a sustainable future underscored by science-backed targets aligned with the Paris Agreement. In 2021, SLB became the first company in the energy services industry to commit to a 2050 net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions target, including all three emission scopes.

SLB allocated $2.3 billion for low-carbon technology research and aims for a 30% reduction in operational carbon emissions by 2030, while also expanding its renewable energy service portfolio.

SLB is applying its knowledge of extraction technologies and processing to the location and sources of critical minerals, such as lithium from brine deposits, that will be required to support the energy transition.

SLB believes that through diversity, inclusivity, and learning and development, it can support its people to reach their full potential, which unlocks value for all of its stakeholders.

SLB is uniquely positioned to support customers on their digital journeys by managing data migration, workflow redesign, and transition to the cloud. SLB's customers have access to leading digital products and services that help to meet their sustainability goals by driving transparency, better measurement, more effective planning, and more impactful and reliable outcomes.

SLB is committed to providing services that enhance and optimize customers' performance, capitalizing on its global culture, understanding of customer workflows, and experience in developing innovative technology solutions.

SLB people represent more than 140 nationalities and live and work in more than 100 countries worldwide, contributing to community economic development by recruiting and training individuals from the countries in which it operates.

Related: Breaking Down Schlumberger Limited (SLB) Financial Health: Key Insights for Investors

Schlumberger Limited (SLB) How It Works

Schlumberger Limited (SLB) operates as a technology company that partners with customers to access energy, providing services and equipment for hydrocarbon and water industries across the globe.

Schlumberger's Product/Service Portfolio

Schlumberger's Operational Framework

Schlumberger's operations are structured to maximize efficiency and deliver integrated solutions to its clients. Key aspects of its operational framework include:

• Global Integration: Schlumberger integrates its services and technologies across different geographies to provide consistent and standardized solutions.
• Technology Development: The company invests heavily in research and development to create innovative technologies that address complex challenges in the energy sector.
• Supply Chain Management: A robust supply chain ensures the timely delivery of equipment and resources to support operations worldwide.
• Digitalization: Schlumberger leverages digital technologies to enhance operational efficiency, improve decision-making, and drive innovation.

Schlumberger's Strategic Advantages

Schlumberger maintains a competitive edge through several strategic advantages:

• Technological Leadership: Schlumberger's commitment to innovation allows it to offer advanced technologies that improve efficiency and reduce costs for its clients.
• Global Presence: With operations in over 120 countries, Schlumberger has a broad geographic footprint that enables it to serve clients worldwide.
• Integrated Solutions: The company provides end-to-end solutions that cover the entire lifecycle of a well, from exploration to production.
• Strong Customer Relationships: Schlumberger builds long-term relationships with its clients by providing reliable and high-quality services.

For insights into Schlumberger's financial performance, see this analysis: Breaking Down Schlumberger Limited (SLB) Financial Health: Key Insights for Investors

Schlumberger Limited (SLB) How It Makes Money

Schlumberger Limited (SLB) primarily generates revenue by providing technology and services for the oil and gas industry, assisting companies in finding, accessing, and producing oil and gas.

Schlumberger Limited's Revenue Breakdown

Schlumberger Limited's Business Economics

Schlumberger's business economics are influenced by several key factors:

• Technology and Innovation: SLB invests heavily in research and development to create advanced technologies and services. These innovations often command higher prices and margins due to their ability to improve efficiency and production for oil and gas companies.
• Pricing Strategies: The company employs various pricing models, including fixed-price contracts, day-rate contracts, and performance-based contracts. Performance-based contracts, where SLB's compensation is tied to the success of the project, can yield higher revenues but also carry more risk.
• Market Demand: The demand for SLB's services is closely tied to oil and gas prices and the capital spending of exploration and production (E&P) companies. Higher oil prices typically lead to increased E&P spending, boosting demand for SLB's offerings.
• Geographic Presence: SLB operates in numerous countries, allowing it to diversify its revenue streams and reduce dependence on any single region. However, this also exposes the company to various political and economic risks.

Schlumberger Limited's Financial Performance

Key aspects of SLB's financial performance include:

• In 2024, Schlumberger's revenue was $33.12 billion, an increase of 17.75% compared to $28.13 billion in 2023.
• Net income for 2024 was $4.22 billion, significantly up from $3.34 billion in 2023.
• The company's operating margin stood at 16.3% in 2024, reflecting its ability to manage costs effectively while growing revenue.
• SLB's capital expenditures for 2024 totaled $1.7 billion, supporting investments in new technologies and infrastructure.

For more detailed insights into Schlumberger's financial health, you can explore: Breaking Down Schlumberger Limited (SLB) Financial Health: Key Insights for Investors

Schlumberger Limited (SLB) Market Position & Future Outlook

Schlumberger Limited is a prominent player in the oilfield services sector, demonstrating a strong market presence and a forward-looking approach to adapt to the evolving energy landscape. With a focus on technology and innovation, the company is strategically positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities while navigating industry challenges.

Competitive Landscape

Opportunities & Challenges

Industry Position

Schlumberger maintains a leading position in the oilfield services industry through its comprehensive service offerings and technological advancements. The company's standing is reinforced by:

• A wide array of proprietary technologies and digital solutions.
• A significant global footprint, enabling service delivery in diverse geographic locations.
• Strong relationships with major national and international oil companies.

Furthermore, the company's commitment to sustainability and new energy solutions is expected to enhance its long-term competitiveness. More information about the company can be found here: Mission Statement, Vision, & Core Values of Schlumberger Limited (SLB).