Nabors Industries (NBR) Gets Double Upgrade from Analyst

Core Viewpoint - Nabors Industries Ltd. (NYSE:NBR) has experienced a significant increase in share price and received a double upgrade from analysts, indicating strong potential for growth in the energy sector, particularly due to its operations in Saudi Arabia [1][3]. Group 1: Stock Performance - The share price of Nabors Industries surged by 2.74% between December 22 and December 29, 2025, making it one of the top-performing energy stocks for that week [1]. - Piper Sandler upgraded Nabors Industries from 'Underweight' to 'Overweight' and raised its price target from $32 to $65, suggesting an upside potential of nearly 22% from the current share price [3]. Group 2: Analyst Insights - The upgrade from Piper Sandler is attributed to Nabors being a major beneficiary of the resumption of work in Saudi Arabia, particularly through its SANAD land drilling joint venture [3]. - Barclays analyst Eddie Kim also increased the price target for Nabors from $45 to $50 but maintained an 'Underweight' rating, indicating a more cautious outlook compared to Piper Sandler [4]. Group 3: Operational Developments - Nabors' SANAD joint venture in Saudi Arabia received a notice to resume operations for two rigs that had been temporarily suspended, with expected return dates in March and June of the following year [4].