The Vox Markets Podcast
The Vox Markets Podcast

Quantum Helium's testing at Sagebrush continues to deliver

June 22, 2026

AI Summary

5 min read

Quantum Helium's extended production test at the Sagebrush well in Montana has confirmed that the reservoir holds virgin pressure, that the helium content matches what was sampled back in 1993, and that the well is unexpectedly producing oil. CEO Howard McLaughlin walked through the results, the engineering challenges still ahead, and what the data means for the company's path toward field development.

What the Sagebrush test actually showed

The extended production test at Sagebrush is in its concluding phase, but McLaughlin was careful to frame the results as encouraging rather than conclusive. The well encountered virgin reservoir pressure through an acid pressure stimulation, which means the formation had not been depleted by prior drilling or production. Gas was recovered and analyzed, and the helium concentration came back at roughly the same level measured in 1993 during a drill stem test. That consistency across three decades is significant because it suggests the helium resource is stable and not being drawn down by nearby activity.

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What you'll learn

  • 1 (01:29) **Extended Production Test at Sagebrush Nears Conclusion** - CEO Howard McLaughlin summarizes the final phase of the extended production test at the Sagebrush well.
  • 2 (02:28) **Helium Flow and Recovery Mechanics** - Explains how the well currently operates and what the test results mean for gas flow.
  • 3 (03:28) **Helium Grade and Industry Context** - Defines the quality of the helium discovered and its significance.
  • 4 (04:19) **Unexpected Oil Discovery and Value** - Details the surprise oil production and its immediate economic benefit.
  • 5 (05:26) **Next Steps and Field Development Timeline** - Outlines the upcoming work and decision points.
  • 6 (06:46) **Wider Helium Market Context** - Discusses the strategic importance of domestic helium supply.
  • 7 Standout Quotes

+ Full timestamped outline available in the app

Guests on this episode

Show Notes

Quantum Helium's ongoing testing programme at the Sagebrush well continues to deliver favourable results. The helium structures and pressure are meeting expectations, and there's also been the additional bonus of significant oil flows. To date around 100 barrels of oil have been produced, and it looks like there's more to come. Chief executive Howard McLaughlin joins Vox to tell us the implications, and to talk about what happens next.
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