Great insights from ExxonMobil CEO Darren Woods on energy security through diversification, $20 billion in lower-emission investments (2022-27), capturing 5 million metric tons p.a. of CO2 from 3 commercial contracts (steel, industrial gas, ammonia), investing in Lithium production and Direct Air Capture - and from Chevron Chairman & CEO Mike Wirth on investing in new energies, specifically hydrogen, CC&S, and biofuels – and being surprised by ExxonMobil’s filing for arbitration for Hess 30% stake in the Stabroek oilfield in Guyana – a dispute threatening to derail Chevron's $53 billion takeover of Hess. The same day, John Hess, CEO of Hess Corp. shared insightful perspectives on energy security in a volatile world and U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm spoke about key energy transition successes including over $200 billion in announced private-sector clean energy investments in America, $8 billion investment in seven Hydrogen Hubs across the country and the enormous geothermal potential. I am having many excellent conversations during the conference with top energy leaders – including with Paula Pinho, Director of Energy, European Commission, on how to overcome hurdles and get hydrogen projects realized. After $234 billion dealmaking in 2023, ConocoPhillips Chairman & CEO Ryan Lance stated that the Upstream M&A wave is “not done” yet.