BG

Article Abstract:

BG stocks have not performed as well as expected by analysts, and the stock price has fallen after refinancing, which was expected to boost the price. Transco should have steady earnings for at least the two remaining years of its regulatory arrangement. Westlb Panmure rates the company's stocks a buy, Merrill Lynch rates them 'accumulate', and Williams de Broe rates them a hold. International gas will have to provide any real growth that the company will enjoy.

BG

Article Abstract:

BG has found natural gas reserves in the southern Mediterranean, and test wells in the Nile delta have had good results. Meanwhile, a planned demerger could allow BG International to make good use of its assets, while Transco's infrastructure could be used for telecoms ventures. Gas prices also look set to rise following a rise in petroleum prices. There are risks involved in BG's exploration operations, however, and regulation could affect the profits of Transco.

Crude Petroleum and Natural Gas Extraction, Crude petroleum and natural gas, Oil & Gas Fields, Natural gas fields, Oil fields

BG

Article Abstract:

BG includes TransCo, owner of the UK gas pipeline grid, Exploration and Production with assets in the UK and abroad, and International Downstream, with interests in pipelines abroad. The Monopolies and Mergers Commission has issued a report on proposals by the gas regulator, Ofgas, for TransCo's prices and asset values. The price will be reduced by more than initially proposed but there are benefits elsewhere, argue analysts. Dividend is still likely to be reduced.