Baker Hughes, an oilfield services provider, has reported better-than-expected first-quarter profits due to surging global drilling activity. The company’s robust international performance, particularly in the Middle East, offset the decline in North American operations, where lower natural gas prices have dampened drilling activities. Baker Hughes attributed its success to increased demand for drilling services and equipment as oil companies ramp up production amidst higher Brent crude prices. The company’s quarterly revenue saw a substantial rise, driven by strong international sales, and it also announced an increase in quarterly dividends to reward shareholders.
