Diamondback, KKR to buy Five Point’s 70% stake in Deep Blue
Diamondback Energy and KKR will acquire Five Point Infrastructure’s 70% stake in Deep Blue, a Midland Basin water operator. Diamondback already holds 30%, and KKR will fund its share via its infrastructure fund. Deep Blue manages 2.2 million barrels of water daily and operates extensive infrastructure. The deal is expected to close in Q4 2026, pending approvals.
How this was made
The 30-second read
Why it matters
The transaction gives Diamondback majority ownership of a critical water infrastructure platform and adds a new asset to KKR's infrastructure portfolio, potentially improving operational reliability for Permian oil production and offering stable cash flows for investors.
Market read
M&A expands Diamondback's water logistics, potentially affecting energy production costs and infrastructure investment sentiment.
What to watch
Regulatory approvals and water‑usage regulations could delay closing and affect economics
Background
Diamondback Energy and KKR announced a joint acquisition of Five Point Infrastructure's 70% stake in Deep Blue, a Midland Basin water operator, with closing expected in Q4 2026.
Ticker impact
KKR is joining Diamondback to purchase Five Point's stake in Deep Blue.
moderate upside as the investment diversifies KKR's infrastructure exposure
first‑time entry into Midland Basin water services could generate stable cash flows
Market effects
strengthens water infrastructure services sector in the Permian Basin
could boost Texas energy infrastructure activity and related service providers
signals increased private capital in oilfield water management worldwide
Counterpoint
Deal may strain Diamondback's balance sheet if cash outlay is larger than anticipated
Key entities
- companyDiamondback Energy
US oil and natural gas producer acquiring the stake
- companyKKR
Global investment firm co‑investing in the acquisition
- companyFive Point Infrastructure
Current 70% owner of Deep Blue being sold
- companyDeep Blue
Midland Basin water infrastructure operator





