Rystad Energy today announces it has entered into a definitive agreement for a new minority capital investment from Marlin Equity Partners alongside a planned leadership transition. The new capital will fund Rystad Energy’s next stage of expansion across data, analytics, advisory and technology, building on the strategy that has shaped the company since its founding, with Rystad Energy retaining majority ownership following the investment. Deputy Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) Lars Eirik Nicolaisen will become CEO of Rystad Energy on 12 October 2026, succeeding founder Jarand Rystad, who will become Executive Chairman.
The investment marks the latest step in a year of sustained growth for the company, with a meaningful share of the funding supporting the continued development of the company’s artificial intelligence capabilities, including Spektra, the technology ecosystem that Rystad Energy launched on 20 August 2026. Spektra combines web-based workspaces, Model Context Protocol (“MCP”) connectors and an Application Programming Interface (“API”) gateway in a single system, giving clients the flexibility to consume and integrate capabilities in the way that works best for them.
“The Rystad team impressed us with their proprietary data assets and customer-centric product offering. We believe Rystad’s integrated, asset-level intelligence platform is strategically positioned to drive sustained growth as energy markets become more complex and data-driven,” said Walter Mair, a principal at Marlin. “We are excited to work alongside the founder and management team to provide operational and financial resources that will support Rystad’s continued growth.”
Lars Eirik Nicolaisen will become CEO effective 12 October 2026. Nicolaisen has served as deputy CEO for the past 8 years, working closely with the executive team to expand Rystad Energy’s global footprint, client base and technology platform. He will lead the company through its next chapter, with a continued focus on the data, analytics and AI-driven tools that clients rely on every day.
“We remain committed to giving our clients the most accurate and trusted data and insight in the industry, delivered through the technology that fits how they work, whether on our platform, through our API or commitment is backed by a dedicated team of energy experts in the market, and we will keep investing in both.”
Nicolaisen succeeds Jarand Rystad, who founded Rystad Energy in 2004 and has led the company for the past 22 years. Jarand Rystad will retain the controlling shares in the company and move into the role of Executive Chairman. He will continue to guide the company’s long-term direction and remain actively involved in developing thought leadership and working closely with clients. The transition reflects years of succession planning, as new capital and technology open the next stage of Rystad Energy’s growth.
“We are thrilled to partner with Marlin to accelerate our growth and further enhance our product offering,” said Jarand Rystad, Founder of Rystad Energy. “Energy markets are becoming more complex, and decision-makers increasingly rely on granular, independent analysis to navigate them. Marlin is a tech-specialist operator, and this partnership gives us the resources to invest further in our data platform and AI capabilities, which will allow us to better serve clients across the energy ecosystem. I am proud of the journey we have built over the past 22 years, and thankful for Marlin Equity Partners’ trust and shared vision for our future,” continued Jarand Rystad. “As Executive Chairman, I look forward to spending more time with clients and energy leaders around the world, through travel and thought leadership. Additionally, I am pleased to welcome Lars Eirik, our Deputy Chief Executive Officer for the past eight years, as our new CEO. Rystad Energy has a very clear vision and the strong leadership our clients and our people deserve.”
About Rystad Energy
Rystad Energy is a leading independent energy intelligence company dedicated to helping clients navigate the future of energy. By providing high-quality data and thought leadership, our international team empowers businesses, governments and organizations to make well-informed decisions. Our extensive portfolio of products and solutions covers all aspects of global energy fundamentals, spanning every corner of the oil and gas industry, the renewable energy sector, clean technologies, supply chains, and power markets. Headquartered in Oslo, Norway, with an expansive global network, our data, analysis, advisory, and education services provide clients a competitive edge in the market.
For more information, visit www.rystadenergy.com
About Marlin Equity Partners
Marlin Equity Partners is a global investment firm with nearly $10 billion in capital commitments specializing in the software, technology and services sectors. Marlin’s mission is to partner with exceptional management teams to drive scale and enhance long-term value in businesses through its deep domain expertise, extensive network and operational transformations focused on product innovation, go-to-market enhancements, and strategic M&A. Founded in 2005, Marlin has completed over 270 acquisitions. The firm is headquartered in Los Angeles, California, with an additional office in London.
For more information, please visit www.marlinequity.com
Media contacts
Evodie Fleury-Greaker
Partner and Global Head of Marketing & Communications
+ 47 4583 9547
Evodie.fleury@rystadenergy.com
Kartik Selvaraju
Senior Communications Manager (APAC)
+65 8779 4619
Kartik.selvaraju@rystadenergy.com
Katie Keenan
Senior Media Relations Manager
+1 713 301 9300
Katie.keenan@rystadenergy.com
NewsServicesCorporate GovernanceAbout us
Join usMedia contactCube Browser DownloadOur House ViewClient login
To the top
