A Short Introduction To Opportunities In Oil And Gas Investment

By Stacey Burt


As oil and gas became the main source of energy, especially during the mid-2000's, oil and gas prices increased proportionately. Oil and gas investment became the most lucrative investment opportunities due to energy demands estimated to be 86-87 million barrels a day according to the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries' 2008 figures.

Tax exempt investment in an oil or gas trust should be considered by the investor seeking direct sector exposure. The process involves investing in the production stage, or during the purchase of exploratory drilling machinery. The process provides a pass through treatment from investments and incomes in this energy sector, with mutual funds and future contracts in the oil sectors being the most common investment undertaken.

Several investing opportunities are available in this ever-growing industry as there is an opportunity suitable for everyone, from the small shareholder to the big investor. One of the easiest methods of investment is purchasing stock in oil and drilling companies. Larger investors can use exchange-traded fund (ETF) to make direct investments on future contracts in the oil sector. Before investing, it is advised that a thorough research of the sector be carried out, and the services of an energy investment professional be employed.

What drives the world economy is basically oil and gas. There are many ways by which the products from gas and oil can be used, therefore, anything that happens within this sector has the power to change the direction of a country's economy.

Exploration opportunities involve companies leasing or buying land and prospect to make money through drilling. This is a risky investment as striking oil is not a guarantee. Income opportunities involve the acquisition of land or plots near proven energy reserves. Energy investments require certain services and support services, hence some opportunities come up such as transportation services; pipeline companies for the transportation of the drilled oil; other companies include the shipping and logistics companies manufacturers of equipment ;refiners; and rigging companies.

Previous trends have shown that when oil and gas prices rise the economy will slow down or become stagnant. Although investors are warned of this, they are also advised that large profits up to ten times the original investment amount are also quite possible. The oil and gas sector also has many tax advantages as most tax remains invisible to those purchasing shares from public traded stock.

In the event that the drilling does not strike oil or gas, huge losses can be realized due to the volatility of the industry and this is where diversification comes in. Shares especially of smaller companies are hard to liquidate and one has to redeem interest with your company or other limited partner which is usually direct. Higher commissions are also paid to brokers which can sometimes exceed 20%.

Another risk factor includes human involvement. Several factors in the professional ability of the operator must be questioned prior to drilling. Mechanical risks are paramount in the search for oil and gas and play a major role in profit realization. A reserve risk is needed to counteract the well control and the seismic evaluation. Lastly, the commodity price risk must be considered and planned for.




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