Saudi Aramco Considers Asset Sales Amid Falling Oil Prices

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Saudi Aramco, the world’s largest oil-producing company, is exploring potential asset sales to generate funds amid lower crude prices, two sources familiar with the matter said on May 24, 2025. This comes as the company looks to expand internationally while facing a significant dip in earnings.

According to the sources, Aramco has enlisted investment bankers to strategize options for raising funds through its assets. However, they did not disclose which specific assets might be sold or the financial institutions involved. Aramco did not provide any comments regarding these discussions.

With crude oil prices recently hovering around $60 a barrel, the company is under pressure to improve efficiency and cut costs. Two additional sources confirmed that asset sales are one of the solutions being considered to enhance the company’s financial health.

Aramco plays a crucial role in Saudi Arabia’s economy, with operations spanning various sectors, including aviation, construction, and sports. In previous asset sales, the company has retained majority stakes, particularly related to its pipeline infrastructure.

The Saudi government is urging its industries to boost profitability amid a widening budget deficit. The International Monetary Fund has indicated that Riyadh needs oil prices over $90 per barrel to balance its budget.

In recent years, Aramco has sought to expand its global presence, making significant investments in Chinese refineries, Chilean fuel retailers, and U.S.-based liquefied natural gas companies. Most recently, the company announced the signing of 34 preliminary deals worth approximately $90 billion with U.S. firms, following a visit by President Donald Trump to the kingdom.