1. INTRODUCTION
The energy sector is generally driven by the price of crude oil. Recent trends of reviving global economy, increasing demand for energy, and political turmoil in oil-producing regions, have seen oil prices soar (to more than $55 a barrel in 2004), thus causing industry rebound. Higher prices have reached most of the industry ? producers, refiners, pipeline companies, equipment makers, oil field service providers, and gas station operators - which have all enjoyed new profits. Leading the charge are the world's largest integrated oil companies: Exxon Mobil, BP, and Royal Dutch/Shell (Yahoo Finance, Industry Profile).
British Petroleum (BP) is of one of the world's largest energy companies, providing its customers with fuel for transportation, energy for heat and light, retail services and petrochemical products for everyday items. Incorporated in 1909 in Great Britain, BP has transformed from a local oil company into a global energy group with four main businesses: Exploration and Production; Gas, Power and Renewable; Refining and Marketing; and Petrochemicals. The Company employing over 100,000 people has established operations in Europe, the United States, Canada, South America, Australasia and parts of Africa.
Exxon Mobil Corporation is engaged in the energy and petrochemical business. Through its divisions and affiliated companies, Exxon Mobil operates or markets products in the United States and approximately 200 other countries and territories. The Company's principal business is energy, involving exploration for, and production of, crude oil and natural gas, manufacture of petroleum products and transportation and sale of crude oil, natural gas and petroleum products. Exxon Mobil is also a manufacturer and marketer of bas ...