Overview

• Shell is in the early stages of exploring a possible acquisition of BP, consulting advisors and waiting for further declines in BP's stock and oil prices before making a decision.
• The company is also considering alternative strategies, such as share buybacks or smaller acquisitions, to enhance shareholder value.
• BP's market value has dropped by one-third over the past year, leaving it valued at approximately €66 billion, while Shell's market value stands near €175 billion.
• A merger of this scale would face significant regulatory scrutiny, with competition authorities likely to review its impact on the energy market.
• BP has declined to comment on the speculation, while Shell emphasizes its focus on performance, discipline, and simplification to boost investor returns.