On February 9, 2017, Patterson-UTI Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: PTEN) reported financial results for the three months and twelve months ended December 31, 2016.

In the fourth quarter of 2016, Patterson’s average rig count in the United States increased by six to a total of 66 rigs. As a result of the decrease in the proportion of rigs on standby, total average rig operating costs per day during Q4’16 increased to $13,770, compared to the previous quarter of $13,180. Without the decrease in rigs on standby, total average rig operating cost per day would have decreased as a result of fixed costs being spread over more operating days.

Other highlights cited in the earnings call included the following: [read more]