BP has launched a comprehensive program to deploy artificial intelligence in seismic imaging, predictive maintenance and supply-chain optimization. The company reports a 20% reduction in unplanned downtime at North Sea platforms following AI-driven equipment monitoring pilots. In downstream operations, machine-learning algorithms have cut catalyst regeneration cycles by 15%, contributing to a 5% lift in refinery throughput over six months. BP’s chief digital officer noted that AI models are now embedded in over 30 projects spanning exploration, trading and customer analytics, with an initial investment of $300 million earmarked for 2026–2028, signaling a concerted push to improve margins and lower methane emissions by up to 10% through real-time leak detection.

BP agreed to sell a 65% interest in its Castrol lubricant business to infrastructure investor Stonepeak for $6 billion, accelerating its previously announced $20 billion divestment plan. Castrol contributed just 3.5% of BP’s quarterly adjusted EBITDA, and the transaction is expected to pull forward five years’ worth of brand earnings. BP will retain a 35% equity holding and appoint two directors to the new joint-venture board. Proceeds will be applied to debt reduction, targeting a net debt range of $14–$18 billion by 2027, and freeing up capital for renewable energy and low-carbon projects, including offshore wind and hydrogen pilots.

The Indian government has initiated arbitration proceedings against BP and Reliance Industries, demanding more than $30 billion in compensation for what it alleges is significant underproduction from a major offshore gas field. Three confidential sources indicate that India’s claim covers a nine-year period and incorporates penalties for unmet production targets tied to a 1999 production-sharing contract. BP has declined to comment on the ongoing arbitration but maintains that its joint-venture partners have consistently met investment and output obligations. Legal analysts warn that a ruling against BP could affect future licensing rounds in the region and prompt revisions to contract stability mechanisms.