Western Europe will continue to rely on imported Russian gas into the 2020s as mature offshore provinces struggle for growth, while large-scale shale gas extraction looks increasingly unlikely in the medium term. Following Moscow's intervention in Ukraine and the resulting strained diplomatic ties with the West, it remains to be seen if North Sea production can rally to support any drop in gas flow from Russia.

With many IOCs planning investment into UK offshore fields through enhanced oil recovery (EOR), deeper water plays and downstream infrastructure upgrades, our Development Drilling & Production Forecast predicts that production will rally slightly to around 1.75 million b/d by 2017, requiring a maintaining of the recent 6% jump in well completions. The necessary high levels of expenditure are unlikely to be sustained in the long-term due to the UK's offshore maturity; therefore, DW expect a resumption of decline towards the end of the decade. Hope for any long-term growth rests with much-needed reform of the UK's offshore regulator, which must swiftly adapt to the shift towards production from smaller fields.

On the other side of the North Sea, Statoil are to attempt improved recovery from brownfield projects offshore Norway. Along with the start of projects in the large Johan Sverdrup and Goliat fields, this will see the number of well completions sustained at around 200 a year beyond 2020. DW expect these projects will see Norway break from the mould of other mature Western European producers and sustain production into the next decade. It must be noted, however, that both of these fields are currently subject to delay. Johan Sverdrup is facing electrification issues whilst ENI's Goliat FPSO is still to be completed and may take millions of man-hours more.

Potential risks to future growth include rising costs and the potential (albeit currently small, and in the longer term) competition from shale gas production. A recent victim of rising costs was the subsea compression project at Ormen Lange, despite positive results during testing and the backing of Statoil and ExxonMobil. Recent onshore legislation changes in the UK now allows for drilling and pipeline construction under private property. This, along with growing encouragement from Westminster of E&P companies, shows that shale gas extraction could be possible on a larger scale towards the end of the decade.

Matt Cook, Douglas-Westwood London

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Noble Corporation (NYSE: NE) has announced an update to its plan to spin-off Paragon Offshore. Noble expects to effect the spin-off as a dividend of 100 percent of the shares of Paragon Offshore to Noble's shareholders during the third quarter of this year.

As previously announced, Paragon Offshore will own and operate most of Noble's current standard specification drilling business, including five drillships, three semisubmersibles, 34 jackups, and one FPSO. The new company will also be responsible for the Hibernia platform operations. Noble will continue to own and operate its high-specification assets with particular operating focus in deepwater and ultra-deepwater market segments for drillships and semisubmersibles and harsh environment and high-specification segments for jackups.

David W. Williams, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Noble, said, "The spin-off of Paragon Offshore to our shareholders will be an important milestone in Noble's transformation and will allow each company to have a more focused business and operational strategy. The spin allows us to bring certainty to our shareholders and to both of the Noble and Paragon business organizations.

"I am excited for the future of both Noble and Paragon Offshore. Noble can move forward as an industry-leading high specification and deepwater drilling company, and Paragon Offshore can better leverage its fleet and substantial backlog to focus on the drivers of its particular business segment. In light of financial market conditions, both generally and with respect to the equity markets for offshore drilling companies, we decided to eliminate the initial public offering and accelerate the completion of the separation transaction.

"Each company will have capable assets and great talent that will allow the two fleets to be optimally marketed and operated for the benefit of all shareholders."

The spin-off, which is expected to be tax-free to shareholders, will be subject to approval by Noble's shareholders at the upcoming annual general meeting. Noble will also file a registration statement on Form 10, and the distribution will be subject to such registration statement being declared effective, as well as final board approval of the actual dividend and other customary matters.

NYC-based PIRA Energy Group believes that Asian oil markets remain supported. In the U.S., stocks built.  In Japan, consumption tax increase depresses product demands. Specifically, PIRA’s analysis of the oil market fundamentals has revealed the following:

Asian Oil Markets Remain Supported

Oil prices should find increasing support moving forward as the worst of the spring crude stock building is almost behind us. Asian gasoline cracks should improve seasonally. Gasoil cracks should hold up with ongoing turnarounds and then higher demand, especially into 3Q.

Consumption Tax Increase Depresses Japanese Product Demands

Total commercial stocks rose 4.6 MMBbls due to a 4.9 MMBbl build in crude. Finished product stocks were modestly lower. Gasoil stocks drew for the eleventh straight week. All the major product demands fell back, as an increase in the consumption tax went into effect April 1st. That increase is likely to keep demands abnormally soft for the next couple of weeks and produce adverse demand comparisons to last April.

A Closer Look at Canadian Shale Liquids Potential

It is becoming increasingly likely that the next location of significant shale liquids growth will be Western Canada. A closer look at resource potential suggests that production volumes will substantially grow. There will be obstacles including cost pressures, water management, takeaway infrastructure limits and environmental concerns that will slow progress but none of these appear to be showstoppers.

Propane Stock Building Has Commenced

U.S. stock building occurred at a faster pace than last season, but propane inventory comparisons will remain far lower year-on-year. Propane exports will grow during the course of the year as new terminal capacity is added. Near term ethane usage is affected by a relatively high level of cracker downtime. The key development is the sharp escalation in spot international freight costs which is adversely impacting trade economics.

Ethanol Prices Plummet

U.S. ethanol prices tumbled the week ending April 4 as plant output increased sharply, enabling stocks to build for the second consecutive week. At the same time, prices had reached a high enough premium over gasoline that companies reduced the percentage of ethanol-blended fuel to the lowest level in about eight weeks.

The information above is part of PIRA Energy Group's weekly Energy Market Recap, which alerts readers to PIRA’s current analysis of energy markets around the world as well as the key economic and political factors driving those markets.

Songa Offshore SE is pleased to announce that the documentation for the previously announced USD 1,014 million loan facilities for the financing of the first two Cat D drilling rigs, Songa Equinox and Songa Endurance, have been finalized and the loan agreements have been signed by all parties.

The new facilities are split into senior loans of USD 774 million and junior loans of USD 240 million and have an average amortization profile of 10.5 years. The junior loans include a pre-delivery tranche of USD 104 million. Drawdown of the pre-delivery tranche is expected to take place in early May 2014.

NYC-based PIRA Energy Group reports that midcontinent crude differentials strengthen in April. On the week, another U.S. commercial stock build narrows the stock deficit versus last year. In Japan, total commercial stocks built. Specifically, PIRA’s analysis of the oil market fundamentals has revealed the following:

Midcontinent Crude Differentials Strengthen in April

Canadian crude differentials strengthened relative to WTI in April, and all Midcontinent crude prices strengthened relative to Brent and LLS. Stocks continued to fall in Cushing, as recently installed pipeline capacity continues to move the PADD II crude surplus into PADD III.

Another Commercial Stock Build Narrows the Stock Deficit Versus Last Year

Although U.S. crude stocks posted their first weekly draw since the end of March, a total commercial stock build for the week of May 2 narrowed the year-over-year stock deficit by building at about twice the rate as the same week last year. The deficit of the four major refined products actually widened, while the deficit of propane and all other products was almost halved. Propane led the way with the largest weekly build in at least 10 years.

In Japan, Oil Balances Reflect Golden Week Holidays

Due to the "Golden Week" holidays, two weeks of data were reported this past week, both April 26th and May 3rd. Total commercial stocks built with finished products and crude rising. Runs declined in both weeks. There were two consecutive stock builds for both gasoline and gasoil. Gasoline demand didn't exhibit as much of a "holiday pop" as expected and stocks built both weeks. Gasoil demand declined due to holiday impacts and stocks built for both weeks.

Ethane Prices Tied to Natural Gas Prices

Low shoulder season demand will continue to pressure propane prices. Next week’s propane inventory report will be an important indicator. Excess ethane due to surging production will leave ethane prices tied to natural gas prices for some time to come.

Ethanol Prices Plummet

After a brief pause at the end of April, U.S. ethanol prices resumed their freefall the week ending May 2, as inventories built for the second straight week, reaching the highest level since July 2013. Cash margins declined again, but they are still substantially higher than at this time last year.

Aramco Announces Crude Price Differentials for June

Saudi Arabia's formula prices for June have just been released. Most notably, U.S. formula prices were increased by $0.80/Bbl versus the sour benchmark and stand at their highest levels seen yet. Since December 2013 the price for Saudi crude for U.S. destinations has risen by $3/Bbl compared to local competing USG grades. This will ultimately result in lower liftings by U.S. refiners and consequent repositioning of Saudi exports more toward growing Asian import markets.

The information above is part of PIRA Energy Group's weekly Energy Market Recap, which alerts readers to PIRA’s current analysis of energy markets around the world as well as the key economic and political factors driving those markets.

NYC-based PIRA Energy Group reports that the April rate of U.S. inventory increase is historic. In the U.S., stocks built while in Japan inventories drew. Specifically, PIRA’s analysis of the oil market fundamentals has revealed the following:

Another Huge U.S. Stock Build

Commercial oil inventories increased for the week ending April 18, following the stock increase for the week earlier. So far, the April rate of inventory increase is historic. It will substantially moderate for the rest of the month, but will still end up being a rather large inventory increase.

Japanese Inventories Draw Due to Lower Crude Stocks

Total commercial stocks drew due to a draw on crude. Finished product stocks were modestly higher. There is still demand impairment from the April 1st consumption tax increase, though that impact lessened this past week with modestly higher gasoline, gasoil, and kero demands. The indicative refining margin was modestly higher and margins remain good.

Rising Freight Rates Affect Markets

The pace of U.S. propane stock building is increasing, even as exports are sustained at high levels. Ethane usage is affected by cracker downtime, but will be increasing over the next couple of months. Freight rates keep increasing leading to weakening of spot arb margins while some cargoes are being redirected to shorter haul routes, as the emphasis shifts to more efficient operations.

Ethanol Prices Fall

U.S. ethanol prices dropped to the lowest level in over four weeks on April 16 as production rose to the highest level of the year. Values were significantly below gasoline again, after selling at a premium just two weeks ago.

Ethanol Output Declines

U.S. ethanol production fell to 910 MB/D during the holiday-shortened week ending April 18, down from an 18-week high 939 MB/D during the preceding week. Despite the decline, this was the third highest output thus far this year as the weather improved and logistical problems eased.

Nigeria: Risks to Oil Supply Disruptions and Long-Term Growth on the Rise

Risks to Nigerian crude supply are on the rise in both the near and long term. In the near term, oil infrastructure sabotage may increase ahead of the February 2015 elections, adding to existing oil theft and pipeline vandalism. In the longer term, growth remains challenged. Persistent insecurity has led to a broad exit of foreign oil companies from vulnerable areas, and a highly uncertain regulatory climate due to the long-delayed Petroleum Industry Bill has stalled investment in the deepwater.

The information above is part of PIRA Energy Group's weekly Energy Market Recap, which alerts readers to PIRA’s current analysis of energy markets around the world as well as the key economic and political factors driving those markets.

DW's new Drilling & Production information service is producing some interesting numbers, not least that meeting future global oil & gas demand will require massive numbers of new development wells to be drilled; in 2014 some 83,000, of which 80,000 will be onshore and 3,000 offshore. However, a forecast 17% increase in oil & gas demand by 2020 means that annual well completions will need to climb 35%; in all an additional 670,000 wells must be drilled by the end of the decade.

Offshore, the developing shallow water gas and highly productive deepwater sectors will offset the effects of an aging shallow water oil sector into the forecast, with total offshore oil & gas production set to rise 22% by 2020. DW expect to see a surge of deepwater well completions in the medium term - reaching 476 by 2018, up from 185 in 2013.

New annual onshore well numbers are set to grow 35% by 2020, as more completions are needed to offset ongoing production decline. Worldwide, more drilling for less oil & gas is a recurring theme; the Middle East will need to achieve more than 30% growth in drilling as the NOCs of KSA, Kuwait, Qatar and UAE start large redevelopments in the near-term – nevertheless, production will rise just 10% due to the maturing of existing fields. It is of note that the well numbers of the national oil companies will surge as the international oil majors endeavor to reign-in their spending.

Greenfield projects (onshore and offshore) in Russia could see production maintained at current levels into the 2020s, though recent diplomatic tensions could affect this considerably. China will invest significantly into output at home and abroad, notably Central Asia, as it looks to satisfy rapidly rising domestic demand.

On a global basis, much of the drilling is due to the continued resurgence of the dominant North American market (which accounted for 62% of worldwide development wells drilled in 2013).

Due to the fundamental importance of development drilling to the industry, we will be starting a new monthly Drilling & Production email service shortly. In the meantime further information can be obtained from:

NYC-based PIRA Energy Group believes that Asian oil markets should remain supported. In the U.S., accelerated overall stock draw resuming so far in march.  In Japan, kerosene stocks reach record lows. Specifically, PIRA’s analysis of the oil market fundamentals has revealed the following:

 Asian Oil Markets Should Remain Supported

Crude stock building peaks in March, and then in April builds will lessen. As we move further into the second quarter, refinery run increases absorb incremental crude. Asian gasoline cracks should improve seasonally with some further gains being forecast. Gasoil cracks have eased a bit, but further downward pressure is seen as limited as Asian turnarounds and low stocks levels help keep balances in check. Fuel oil cracks have been falling, but recently they have found a degree of support.

Japanese Kerosene Stocks Reach Record Lows

Total commercial stocks dropped on the week. Crude stocks fell only slightly, but finished product stocks declined 2 MMBbls, of which half was kerosene. This draw left kerosene stocks at record lows. Gasoil stocks declined for the eighth straight week and also remain very lean. This tight position in middle distillate stocks should prevent any large scale erosion in middle distillate cracks, though they have eased a bit of late. The indicative refining margin was modestly lower.

Inland North American Crude to Generally Reconnect to USGC, But Not Fully to Global Markets

The inland North America crude market is reconnecting to coastal markets as new infrastructure is put in place. Historically three distinct markets—the Northern Tier, Midcontinent and Gulf Coast — are now quickly becoming one integrated market. Producers' crude oil netbacks are generally aligning with coastal values after adjusting for quality and transportation costs, but there will still be occasions when inland congestion occurs. Moreover, the unlocking of inland markets by pushing crude oil supply to the Gulf Coast has unhinged Gulf Coast values from international prices, sometimes substantially. In a special report PIRA assesses the historical extent of crude prices disconnecting from refiner parity and our expectations for the remainder of 2014.

4Q13 Tight Oil Operator Review

Activity proceeded in line with operators’ expectations in 4Q13, notwithstanding temporary impacts from extreme weather. In this quarter, most operators shifted away capital from more gassy plays like the Woodford and focusing their attention on the Bakken, Eagle Ford, and Permian, where they reported better returns. Permian in particular experienced an industry-wide ramp in activity. In Bakken and Eagle Ford, operators focused mostly on improving the productivity of their acreage through better designs, well down-spacing, and tapping different intervals simultaneously. Significant cost reductions were not evident this quarter, but neither were there indications of cost escalation.

A Quick Note on Upstream Cost Escalation

There are two sources of reported increases in upstream costs that have very different causes and implications. One is the decision by industry to pursue upstream projects that have higher costs because these projects are now economic under a higher price regime. The second is the increase in costs for a given resource due to increases in contractor drilling, manpower and other capital or operating costs. It is extremely difficult to disentangle the two from company reports, but the former has been a major factor since prices began their sharp increase early last decade

Heating Season Coming to a Close

U.S. propane stocks will end the first quarter at quite low levels and comparisons will remain well behind the prior year. Exports continue to be quite active. Butane blending season is coming to a close soon. With the heating season ending, chemical feedstock users will be helping set the tone for the LPG markets in the months ahead.

Inventories Fall

The lack of rail movement continued to cause tightness in the market, particularly on the coasts. Inventories fell by 631 thousand barrels to a fifteen-week low 15.3 million barrels.

The information above is part of PIRA Energy Group's weekly Energy Market Recap, which alerts readers to PIRA’s current analysis of energy markets around the world as well as the key economic and political factors driving those markets.

NYC-based PIRA Energy Group believes that the physical markets are recovering. In the U.S., commercial stocks continue to March higher. Specifically, PIRA’s analysis of the oil market fundamentals has revealed the following:

Physical Markets Are Recovering

PIRA's economic growth forecast is on track. Market positioning is more of a concern for next month's prices than seasonality. Physical markets are recovering, especially in the Atlantic Basin, supported by relatively low stocks and higher crude run demand. As expected, low inventories have strongly kicked off the gasoline season, but with higher crude runs gasoline stocks will build back towards more typical levels. Diesel tightness will ease over the next few months, but stocks will stay generally low all year.

European Oil Market Forecast

Atlantic Basin crude supply growth in light grades supports continued relative strength in Urals differentials hurting refining margins for medium-sour grades. Light product exports from Russia will increase and VGO/straight run resid exports will decline, this year and next. Refining margins in Europe will remain challenged this year with marginal FCC/visbreaking capacity modestly attractive through midyear but then weaker in the 4th quarter. Gasoline cracks will peak early as stocks will build back quickly over the next few months. Distillate inventories will remain low and prices will strengthen further as demand picks up after midyear.

U.S. February 2014 DOE Monthly Revisions

DOE released its final monthly February 2014 (PSM) U.S. oil supply/demand data today. Demand came in at 18.99 MMB/D versus the 18.77 MMB/D PIRA had assumed in its balances. Compared with the weekly preliminary data, total demand was revised higher by a large 538 MB/D, with distillate demand revised higher by 601 MB/D, and gasoline higher by 226 MB/D. This is because of much lower exports than the DOE was assuming. End-February total commercial stocks stood at 1,047 MMBbls, nearly identical to PIRA's projection.

The Freefall in Ethanol Prices paused at the end of April

U.S. ethanol prices declined sharply during most of April as the weather in the Midwest improved and the gridlock in the rail system eased. The last few days of the month, prices stabilized as some companies needed to purchase ethanol to meet April supply commitments.

Ethanol Stocks Build

Ethanol inventories built to the highest level since July 2013 the week ending April 25, rising by 694 thousand barrels to 17.2 million barrels. Ethanol production fell to 898 MB/D from 910 MB/D during the preceding week.

The information above is part of PIRA Energy Group's weekly Energy Market Recap, which alerts readers to PIRA’s current analysis of energy markets around the world as well as the key economic and political factors driving those markets.

NYC-based PIRA Energy Group Reports that on the week, U.S. commercial oil stocks built; the largest increase since 2009. Japanese crude stocks also built, while demand is still impaired. Specifically, PIRA’s analysis of the oil market fundamentals has revealed the following:

Commercial Oil Inventories Build W/W

Commercial oil inventories built 14.5 million barrel the week ending April 11, the largest weekly increase since 2009. Crude stocks gained 10 million barrels, the largest increase in over five years, with the SPR contributing just 0.6 million barrels to the increase. Crude stocks have now moved above 2013 levels for the first time this year, while all the main product categories are below last year. 

Japanese Stocks Build, Demands Still Impaired

In Japan, total commercial stocks rose 4.6 MMBbls for the second straight week. Crude stocks built 2.7 MMBbls with finished products rising 1.5 MMBbls. All the major product stocks built, with the exception of naphtha. There is still demand impairment from the April 1st consumption tax increase, although the impact should soon begin to diminish. The indicative refining margin was modestly higher and margins remain good.

February Census Exports Clarify February U.S. Product Demand & Crude

The month-on-month decline in distillate and gasoline exports for February, 2014, as well as the EIA’s export plug used during the weeks of February, resulted in upward revisions to calculated February U.S. product demand. For distillate, February exports point to an upward demand revision close to what one would expect with the colder weather. For gasoline, February exports imply an added 190 MB/D to the demand rates reported in the weekly. Some of this demand growth could be a function of declining efficiency. On the crude oil side, exports of 240 MB/D during February reflected a continuation of the recent high level of crude exports to Canada.

Weaker Price Environment to Benefit Vessel Operators

PIRA expects a weaker price environment over the next five years will prove beneficial to vessel operators by reducing bunker costs from current levels. The flat prices for crude and products over the past several years have been stable as positive supply news from rapidly rising shale production has been nearly offset by continued supply disruptions both from OPEC and non-OPEC nations. Risks still remain to Iraqi, Libyan and Venezuelan crude supplies.

Rising Freight Rates To Alter Trade Flow

The shoulder season is seeing anticipated U.S. propane stock builds. Exports are active, but sharply rising freight rates will lead to some trade flow shifts in the weeks ahead. Ethane usage is being impacted by a relatively high level of cracker downtime. Overseas markets are seeing more LPG feed usage.

Ethanol Output Jumps W/W

U.S. ethanol production soared to an eighteen-week high 939 MB/D the week ending April 11 from 896 MB/D during the preceding week. This was the second highest output since January 2012 as the industry is finally breaking free of the frigid weather and logistical problems that have hampered operations over the past few months.

The information above is part of PIRA Energy Group's weekly Energy Market Recap, which alerts readers to PIRA’s current analysis of energy markets around the world as well as the key economic and political factors driving those markets.

NYC-based PIRA Energy Group reports that Cushing stocks decline; WTI rises. In the U.S., a more typical U.S. stock draw returns.  In Japan, Japanese crude stocks correct downward. Specifically, PIRA’s analysis of the oil market fundamentals has revealed the following:

Cushing Stocks Decline; WTI Rises

The decline in Cushing crude stocks continued for a third straight month, while Gulf Coast stocks continued to rise, reducing the discount of WTI to Brent and LLS. Canadian differentials improved modestly from very weak levels, while rising stock levels in the Rockies and West Texas caused differentials for crudes in those regions to weaken.

A More Typical U.S. Stock Draw Returns

This past week has closed out the first quarter with a stock decline. We had just four weeks of stock builds during this year's first quarter and we also matched the largest inventory decline since 2009.

Aramco Announces Crude Price Differentials for May

Saudi Arabia's formula prices for May were recently released. European differentials were lowered, relative to April, while U.S. and Asian differentials were tightened. The European reductions were greatest on the lightest of grades, and slightly less for the heavier grades such as Arab Medium and Arab Heavy. After two months of "no change", U.S. differentials were tightened fairly significantly, with the biggest adjustment coming on Arab Heavy.

Heating Season Is Ending with U.S. Propane Stocks Low

The shoulder season is beginning with U.S. propane inventory relatively low. Stock building will be commencing but with exports remaining high the comparison to the year ago will be quite favorable. Ethane usage will be affected by a high level of steam cracker downtime over the next couple of months. Increased cargo flow especially to the East of Suez markets has led to sharply increasing VLGC freight rates.

Ethanol Prices Spike

U.S. ethanol prices increased sharply to an eight-year high Monday, and inventories dropped to a 15-week low during March as the lack of railcars to transport ethanol forced manufacturers to reduce output. As a result, manufacturing margins at PIRA’s model ethanol plant jumped to a record of nearly $2 per gallon by the end of the month.

U.S. Ethanol Production Rises

U.S. ethanol production increased sharply to a fourteen-week high 922 MB/D the week ending March 28 from 885 MB/D during the previous week as manufacturers sought to take advantage of near-record prices. Storage and transportation problems have eased for some manufacturers, but the issues still persist for many producers. Inventories rose for the second consecutive week, by 222 thousand barrels to 15.9 million barrels.

The information above is part of PIRA Energy Group's weekly Energy Market Recap, which alerts readers to PIRA’s current analysis of energy markets around the world as well as the key economic and political factors driving those markets.

Announcing its results for the 2013 financial year, VIKING Life-Saving Equipment A/S has again led the way in its industry, achieving growth in both turnover and profits for 10 straight years.

In doing so, the Danish-based company with a worldwide presence has once more beaten the
odds in an industry plagued by reductions in passenger and cargo ship newbuilds, falling exchange rates in key markets, and downward price pressure.

Photo: Viking Offshore Evacuation System

Adjusted for falls in the US dollar exchange rate, currencies pegged to the dollar, and European member state non-euro currencies, the company's turnover for 2013 increased 6 percent to DKK

1.612 billion. Profit before tax grew more than 20 percent to a record DKK 141.2 million.

"Our earnings have now reached an appropriate level for a healthy manufacturing company," says VIKING CEO Henrik Uhd Christensen. "In 2013, VIKING achieved moderate growth in turnover, and the increased profit level primarily reflects internal improvements. We have, in fact, been able to reduce the costs of administration, logistics and production while simultaneously strengthening customer service."

Long-term strategy in a sluggish market

As one of the world's leading manufacturers of maritime safety equipment, VIKING is closely tied to the newbuild market for passenger and cargo ships, a market that has been declining in recent years. Southern European countries, in particular, the traditional stronghold of ferry traffic in the Mediterranean, are still feeling the effects of the economic crisis. Moreover, low economic growth rates in several large markets have had considerable influence on global cargo traffic which, in turn, affects contracts for new cargo ships.

"We have been able to handle the worldwide market saturation of recent years because VIKING's owners take a long-term approach to expanding our global market position, focusing on growth and making sure we are right where our customers are," says Henrik Uhd Christensen. "During the
crisis years, we have continued to develop a competitive product portfolio based on concepts and
services tailored to each customer's specific needs."

Offshore market continues to grow

Henrik Uhd Christensen points to the VIKING Shipowner Agreement, where his company offers to take care of all aspects of a shipowner's safety equipment and servicing tasks for predictable, transparent prices. It's a concept that addresses shipowner needs for flexibility at a time where access to financing is limited, and has quickly become the industry's gold standard since its launch four years ago.

With its broad product portfolio, VIKING has also been able to compensate for slower activity in some market segments by expanding in more promising ones. Here the offshore industry stands out, with growth rates fueled by continued high oil prices.

"As the hunt for new oil and gas discoveries moves further from shore, higher-quality safety equipment and servicing arrangements are necessary," says Henrik Uhd Christensen. "With a product range well-suited to the North Sea and polar conditions, and with a specialised offshore business unit based in Norway, VIKING is uniquely positioned to dominate the offshore market for the foreseeable future."

2014 just as difficult

Despite difficult prevailing market conditions, VIKING expects to see growth both in turnover and profit during 2014.

"We are again facing a challenging year where there is little room for improvement in newbuilds, or strong growth in other areas. We expect the passenger and cargo markets will marginally improve, and that the offshore market will continue to show its strength. Within these largely unchanged parameters, we will continue to be on the offensive with our products and services, tailored to individual customer needs," says Henrik Uhd Christensen.

The positive earnings for 2013, combined with a conservative dividends policy, have contributed to further strengthening the company. VIKING's equity at the end of the financial year amounted to DKK 617.2 million.

Aker Solutions will split into two companies to speed up a streamlining process that will reduce costs and better position all parts of the group to meet the needs of customers in an increasingly competitive global energy industry.

The Subsea, Umbilicals, Engineering and Maintenance, Modifications and Operations (MMO) areas will form a new company under the Aker Solutions name. The company will be more strategically aligned, have a narrower focus and deeper synergies to strengthen its leading position through its unique subsea technology and state-of-the-art offshore field design.

The other units, including Drilling Technologies, Aker Oilfield Services and Process Systems, will be developed independently as part of a new oil-services investment company, named Akastor. These business areas, which have significant operational, technological and commercial differences, will have greater strategic freedom to develop individually through both organic growth and transactions.

The split, which will take place as a spin-off of the new Aker Solutions, is scheduled to occur around the end of September. Both companies will be listed on the Oslo stock exchange.

"The new Aker Solutions will be a leaner and more focused company that will be able to offer customers the unique and cost-effective technology and design they need to succeed," Executive Chairman Øyvind Eriksen said. "The company will, through a commitment to operational excellence and organic growth, be better placed to build on its leading position in the fastest growing areas of the global energy markets."
 
Shareholders will get one new Aker Solutions share for each stock held in the existing company at the time of the separation. They will also keep their shares in the remaining business, which will be renamed Akastor at the time of the split, ensuring that the existing shareholder structure is implemented in each company.

The transaction has met with approval from Aker Solutions' largest shareholders, Aker Kværner Holding and Aker ASA. An extraordinary general meeting will be held in August to vote on the separation.
 
"We are taking a major step in a transformation that began 12 years ago with the merger of Kværner and Aker Maritime," said Eriksen. "After this transaction and the 2011 Kværner spin-off, we will have created three distinct companies to service the global energy industry, providing offshore construction, unique subsea technology and field design and oilfield services. We have also divested NOK 12 billion in assets as part of the process."

New Management 
Luis Araujo, the regional president for Aker Solutions in Brazil, will be chief executive officer of the new Aker Solutions. Frank Ove Reite, currently managing partner at Converto, will become CEO of Akastor. Øyvind Eriksen will remain chairman of the board of Aker Solutions.

"While I will continue to play an active role as chairman, it is time for new leadership to take these companies forward," Eriksen said. "Luis has proved more than capable in managing our expansion in Brazil and will provide inspired leadership as the new Aker Solutions builds on its success in the subsea and deepwater markets. Frank has a long experience within the Aker group and is excellent at developing businesses and pushing them toward their full potential. I look forward to working closely with Luis and Frank to unlock the great values in both companies."

Leif Borge, current chief financial officer of Aker Solutions, will be CFO of Akastor. Svein Oskar Stoknes, who heads the subsea area's finance function, will take on the role as CFO of the new Aker Solutions. 
 
Synergies
The new Aker Solutions will be streamlined to focus on the fast-growing deepwater and subsea oil-services markets and in areas with operational, commercial and strategic similarities. There will be a swifter realization of synergies as the subsea and field design areas share the same customers and main markets. The company will have a simpler strategy focused on value creation through technological development, organic growth and operational excellence. It will be uniquely positioned to design, equip, build and maintain the future subsea production factory and will build on its expertise within project execution and offshore field design.

"The new Aker Solutions will benefit from greater synergies and a more coordinated customer approach, leading to a stronger market position and higher and more predictable returns on capital," said Eriksen. 
 
The Akastor management team has extensive experience in developing companies and creating value through operations, restructuring and transactions. The company will provide a structure where the businesses Drilling Technologies, Aker Oilfield Services, Process Systems, Surface Products and Business Solutions will be developed as largely independent entities with management teams, boards of directors and strategies aimed at maximising their value. Each company will have greater strategic and transactional freedom because it will no longer be constrained by the competing needs of other businesses. The entities will be able to focus marketing efforts on core customers and invest strategically. Akastor will also hold financial and real estate assets representing about 20 percent of the company's balance sheet.

Drilling Technologies will be the largest business within Akastor, accounting for about 60 percent of the earnings and workforce.

"There is a strong industrial logic underpinning this move," Eriksen said. "The businesses that will make up Akastor have significant operational, technological and commercial differences that have prevented them from achieving synergies with the other businesses in Aker Solutions. Through this separation, we will be able to more fully realize the industrial and return potential of all our business areas and create value for our shareholders."

Oceaneering International, Inc. (NYSE: OII) has reported record first quarter earnings for the period ended March 31, 2014 and that its Board of Directors declared a regular quarterly dividend of $0.27 per common share, an increase from its prior quarterly dividend of $0.22 per share.  The dividend is payable June 20, 2014 to shareholders of record at the close of business on May 30, 2014.

On revenue of $840.2 million, Oceaneering generated net income of $91.2 million, or $0.84 per share.  During the corresponding period in 2013, Oceaneering reported revenue of $718.6 million and net income of $74.8 million, or $0.69 per share.

Year over year, quarterly EPS increased 22% on profit improvements by all oilfield business operations.  Sequentially, quarterly EPS declined, as anticipated, as a result of lower operating income from Subsea Products and Subsea Projects. 

M. Kevin McEvoy, President and Chief Executive Officer, stated, "We are off to a good start to the year as our record first quarter EPS was above our guidance.  All of our business segments performed well relative to our forecasts, and we continue to expect to achieve record EPS for a fifth consecutive year.

"Compared to the first quarter of last year, quarterly ROV operating income improved on an increase in days on hire, the expansion of our fleet, and an improvement in operating margin.  Our fleet utilization increased to 86% from 83% a year ago.  During the quarter we put 14 new systems into service and retired 4.  At the end of the quarter, we had 314 vehicles in our ROV fleet, an increase of 20 from March 2013.  For the balance of 2014, we expect to place 16 to 21 more new systems into service.

"Subsea Products operating income was higher due to improved demand for subsea hardware and an increase in umbilical plant throughput.  Our Subsea Products backlog at quarter-end was $894 million, compared to $776 million at the end of March 2013 and $906 million at the end of December 2013.

"Subsea Projects operating income increased on higher deepwater vessel activity in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico and offshore Angola.  Asset Integrity operating income improved on increased service demand in the Middle East and the Caspian Sea area.  Advanced Technologies operating income was lower on reductions in theme park project work and U.S. Navy submarine maintenance and engineering service activity.

"Our outlook for the rest of this year remains positive.  We continue to project record EPS for 2014 in the range of $3.90 to $4.10.  We anticipate sustained global demand growth for our services and products to support deepwater drilling, field development, and inspection, maintenance, and repair activities.  We expect all our oilfield segments to achieve higher income in 2014 compared to 2013.  For the second quarter of 2014, we are forecasting EPS of $0.97 to $1.01.

"Our liquidity and projected cash flow provide us with ample resources to invest in Oceaneering's growth.  At the end of the quarter, our balance sheet reflected $106 million of cash, $90 million of debt, and $2.1 billion of equity.  During the quarter we generated EBITDA of $186 million and for 2014 we anticipate generating at least $850 million of EBITDA. 

"During the quarter we repurchased 500,000 shares of our common stock at a cost of about $35 million.  Today we announced a 23% increase in our regular quarterly cash dividend to $0.27 from $0.22 per share.  These actions underscore our continued confidence in Oceaneering's financial strength and future business prospects. 

"Looking beyond 2014, we believe that the oil and gas industry will increase its investment in deepwater projects.  Deepwater remains one of the best frontiers for adding large hydrocarbon reserves with high production flow rates at relatively low finding and development costs.  With our existing assets and opportunities to add new assets, we are well positioned to supply a wide range of services and products required to support the safe deepwater efforts of our customers."

NYC-based PIRA Energy Group believes that stronger economic headlines are ahead. In the U.S., we had the largest stock build of the year.  In Japan, crude stocks jumped, but products drew. Specifically, PIRA’s analysis of the oil market fundamentals has revealed the following:

Stronger Economic Headlines Ahead

Physical crude oil markets will struggle with stock builds. PIRA sees a renewed interest in financial investment in commodities. The oil shale revolution in North America has directionally moved the oil price setting point to the United States. The gasoline season this year looks set to be healthy. Political risks have been balanced but are skewed bullish ahead.

Largest Stock Build of the Year

With runs picking up now that the lows for the refinery maintenance season are in, product inventories fell this past week. This was less than the prior week product inventory decline as reported demand fell while product supply from higher imports and aforementioned runs increased. Despite the increase in runs, the weekly crude stock build was the largest of the year. Both the product and crude year-over-year stock deficits narrowed.

Japanese Crude Stocks Jump, but Products Draw

Total commercial stocks rose 3.0 MMBbls, with crude rising 3.3 MMBbls due to higher crude imports. Product draws were most notably registered for gasoline and gasoil. Kerosene stocks transitioned to stock building mode. The indicative refining margin was modestly lower.

Low Storage as Entering Shoulder Season

The collision in the Houston Ship Channel this past week delayed outbound LPG shipments. Nevertheless, propane stocks are expected to still draw for March, leading to quite low storage entering the shoulder season. Inventory will continue to sharply lag year-ago levels. Also ethane inventory reached below 30 MMBbls this January for the first time in 22 months. Stocks will continue to decline during the course of the year. Delays in USGC exports as well as outbound from Europe cargoes has tightened the European market just as feedstock demand is gaining momentum

Biofuels Programs Continue To Proceed Actively in Many Countries

Canada is expected to need about 2.2 billon liters (580 million gallons) of ethanol this year to satisfy its 5% ethanol mandate. The country has imported over 1 billion liters of ethanol per year over the past three years, nearly all from the United States.

The information above is part of PIRA Energy Group's weekly Energy Market Recap, which alerts readers to PIRA’s current analysis of energy markets around the world as well as the key economic and political factors driving those markets.

NYC-based PIRA Energy Group believes that Permian Basin is now being targeted for tight oil production. The United States is now in the heart of the refinery turnaround period which means a max crude stock build.  In Japan crude stocks declined. Specifically, PIRA’s analysis of the oil market fundamentals has revealed the following:

Permian Basin Tight Crude Oil Update

A source of conventional production for decades, the Permian Basin is now being targeted for tight oil production, using horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing. Relative to Bakken and Eagle Ford, the Permian is in an earlier stage of development. To date, production growth in the Permian more closely resembles the steady increase seen in Bakken than the rapid growth in Eagle Ford.

Max Turnaround Period = Max Crude Stock Build

The United States is now in the heart of the refinery turnaround period. March 14 should be the max turnaround week, after which it drops the subsequent two weeks, if everything comes back as planned, which would be unusual. Historically, unexpected delays have added some 400 MB/D to monthly downtime. Not surprisingly, crude runs hit a low for the year this past week and crude stocks had a very large stock build. Runs are still well above year ago levels as advantaged crude provides U.S. refiners with good margins.

Japanese Crude Stocks Decline

Total commercial stocks dropped on the week. Crude stocks fell, but finished product stocks were only modestly changed, though gasoil stocks fell to a new yearly low and remain very lean. The kerosene stock draw rate moderated further as demand eased and yield rose. The indicative refining margin was modestly higher with gains in gasoline cracks more than offsetting lower cracks in the other products.

Freight Market Outlook

After a strong start to the year, when tanker rates in a number of key trades registered their highest levels in six years, crude tanker rates dropped precipitously. The Baltic dirty tanker index doubled from 674 at the end of November 2013 to 1,344 on January 20, before dropping back to 676 recently. This has touched off a debate on whether the spike in rates was a weather-related, one-off event or a precursor of tighter balances and better times to come.

 Ethanol Prices Soar

U.S. ethanol prices soared as corn values rose to the highest values since September. Product was tight with prices at the coasts reaching seven-year highs. Ethanol manufacturing cash margins reached the highest level in 10 weeks. Brazil is in a terrible drought which will likely cause serious damage to this year’s (2014-2015) harvest.

Low Stock Levels

U.S. propane storage will finish the heating season at a quite low level. While stock building should start in 2Q, year-on-year comparisons will be far lower than last season. The pace of exports will certainly remain firm in the months ahead. As the heating season winds down, more chemical usage will be needed in overseas markets and LPG is being priced to displace naphtha.

Upcoming PIRA Conference Calls--North American Gas Market Presentation

PIRA will conduct a 40-minute online presentation and discussion (via WebEx) for North American Natural Gas Retainer clients, titled North American Gas Market Outlook: Filling the Hole Left in Storage, on Friday, March 21, at 3:30pm EDT. Contact PIRA at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.

The information above is part of PIRA Energy Group's weekly Energy Market Recap, which alerts readers to PIRA’s current analysis of energy markets around the world as well as the key economic and political factors driving those markets.