major oil companies

Major oil companies are finally gaining access to Iraq’s petroleum reserves, but at far less advantageous terms than they once envisioned.

Shares of major oil companies fell sharply on Monday, as crude oil prices tumbled amid new reports that signaled continued consumer spending restraint.

International oil companies poised for a return to Iraq find themselves in an unfamiliar spot, preparing to assist rather than lord over drilling operations and taking risks that at first glance don't appear worth the effort.

Washington, D.C. (August 4, 2008) - The majority of micro-businesses are being crushed by high energy costs, according to the National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE).

A recent survey asked micro-business owners to what degree the increased costs are affecting their work, and the majority reported a moderate to significant negative impact.

A scant 5 percent reported that these costs have had no effect on their firms.