Following the Shell-BG deal, could Exxon bid for BP?
Even taking Exxon’s recent chest beating about its appetite for deals, it seems unlikely
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Another day, another tide of speculation sweeps through the City investment banks about oil industry takeovers following Shell's £47 billion bid for BG, the UK's third largest energy supplier.
Even that old saw about Exxon dispatching its galleons across the Channel to buy BP was being punted around by some brokers this morning. Forgive me if history proves me a fool, but, even taking Exxon’s recent chest beating about its appetite for deals, it seems unlikely.
For starters, monopoly regulators would force such a vast company to sell huge amounts of their combined assets, negating the whole point to a deal. Second, Exxon has just painfully extricated itself from its joint exploration project in Russia thanks to US sanctions. It’s hardly likely to jump back into bed with the biggest western operator there. Third, there’s the small matter of the ongoing Gulf of Mexico oil spill litigation.
Deals will come, but not this one.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments