FT hires Jacobs to cover energy in Houston

The Financial Times has hired Justin Jacobs as an energy reporter based in Houston.

Jacobs, who comes to the FT from IHS Markit where he was a principal analyst, will assist in covering the broader energy story in the Americas, including the ongoing impact Venezuela’s economic implosion is having on the global oil market.

“Our U.S. expansion plans are focused on the big, global industries where American business plays a leading international role, and no sector fits that bill better than energy — and Houston is at the epicenter,” said Peter Spiegel, U.S. managing editor, in a statement. “We’ve continued to invest in the US and in the energy sector, and reopening a bureau in Houston is evidence of that commitment. We’re extremely pleased to add Justin’s expertise and reporting chops.”

Jacobs has covered the industry in roles around the globe, including in Washington DC, London and Beijing. In his role at IHS Markit, Jacobs analyzed energy markets for financial services clients, focused on shale and other U.S. issues, Venezuela, geopolitics, ESG investing and the energy transition.

Prior to that, he was at Petroleum Economist, reporting on high-profile topics ranging from U.S. shale, corporate strategy, Venezuelan oil and politics, Brazil’s deep-water, and China’s state oil companies. Additionally, he has served as a contributor for Oxford Analytica and as an energy analyst for Business Monitor International.