BP on the Brink? Shell Says "Not Today!"

A Disturbance in the Force There Is!

Hmm a tale of oil giants this is. For weeks whispers of a merger many market tongues have wagged. BP a U.K. company since 1909 becoming a takeover target imagine that! Founded as Anglo Persian Oil Company it was. Now seen as a possible takeover it is. The ways of the Force ever changing they are.

Net Zero Goal: Or Is It?

A bold move BP made in 2020 under CEO Looney. A net zero company by 2050 they aimed to become. Renewable energy investments they planned to ramp up. "Performing while transforming" they said. A challenge Looney acknowledged but a tremendous opportunity he argued. Blinded by ambition he was. Like Anakin consumed by it he became.

Profits Rise Then Fall. Like Sand Through Fingers!

The pandemic struck! Crude prices cratered they did. A full year loss BP posted. But then profits soared in 2022! Russia's actions oil prices surging caused this. $27.65 billion they made. "We're announcing more investment," Looney boasted both in renewables and oil. But always two there are no more no less. A master and an apprentice. And profits come and go.

Looney Gone: A Dark Side Temptation!

A sudden departure Looney made in 2023. "Not fully transparent," the company said. Relationships in the workplace a secret he kept. Auchincloss stepped in the Force balanced. But the renewable vision lost it was. A lesson learned this is: Transparency important it is!

Takeover Speculation: The Empire Strikes Back?

Profits declined shares underperformed. Speculation arose: A takeover target BP became. Shell Chevron ExxonMobil even Adnoc potential suitors they were. Elliott an activist investor built a stake. Auchincloss reset the strategy more oil less renewables. Investors unimpressed they are. Down 15% the shares have fallen. A disturbance in the Force can you feel it?

Shell Says No! A New Hope?

Shell denies the rumors! A takeover bid they have rejected. "A very high bar," Shell's CEO said. Morningstar analyst questions the deal a headache it would be. Unless the valuation super attractive it is. So BP stands alone for now. What's next hmm? The future uncertain it is. May the Force be with them they will need it.