Two Oil and Gas Trusts for Steady Gains

Article Excerpt

The Alberta government is reviewing proposals aimed at raising royalties on oil and gas production. Some producers are outraged. But oil prices and revenues have expanded well above consensus forecasts, and the province wants its share. The increased royalties would represent a new cost for oil and gas trusts. But it’s just one element in their future profitability and cash flow. As well, any increases may be more than offset by further rises in oil and gas prices. ARC ENERGY TRUST $20.75 (Toronto symbol AET.UN; SI Rating: Speculative) produces oil and gas in western Canada. In the three months ended June 30, 2007, ARC’s revenue fell slightly, to $305.6 million from $306.7 million. Cash flow per unit fell 16.7%, to $0.80 from $0.96. The decline in cash flow came largely from higher production costs. ARC’s average daily production of 61,637 barrels of oil per day equivalent is weighted 52% toward crude oil and 48% natural gas. In the latest quarter, its average realized price…