Integrated Oil & Gas Company
 |
Definition of 'Integrated Oil & Gas Company'A business entity that engages in the exploration, production, refinement and distribution of oil and gas. Given the high entry costs relating to many oil and gas industry operations, many of the world's largest oil and gas companies, like Chevron Corporation and Exxon Mobile, are integrated. Typically, integrated companies divide their various operations into categories: upstream, which includes all exploration and production endeavors, and downstream, which is confined to refinement and marketing activities. |
 |
Investopedia explains 'Integrated Oil & Gas Company'Because integrated oil and gas companies are involved in so many facets of the fossil fuel industry, often their business bottom lines can be counterintuitive. For example, during times of rising crude prices, an integrated oil and gas company may actually have lower profit margins than a non-integrated rival as a result of having greater downstream than upstream capability, or vice-versa. |
Related Definitions
Articles Of Interest
-
What Determines Oil Prices?
Changes in the price of oil aren't arbitrary. Read on to find out what moves them and why. -
What Determines Gas Prices?
Gas prices are influenced by more than supply and demand. Find out what determines the price you pay at the pump. -
Is The Gold Pain Over?
After falling more than 13%, gold has staged a rebound but is that for fundamental reasons or the work of value investors? Will gold reward investors who didn't give up or is there more pain ... -
Halliburton Has Gotten Interesting Again
If oilfield activity has bottomed, Halliburton would be a good pick here. -
Schlumberger Looks Good At Today's Prices
Schlumberger remains the best of breed in the oil services sector, and the price is getting attractive. -
What Is Wrong With Gold?
Despite its historic and symbolic appeal, this metal is simply a commodity. Here we explore its meaning as an investment. -
BP's Moves On Russian Front Look To Pay Dividends
Does the news of BP's repurchase program make the stock more attractive? Let's take a look. -
Emerging Markets' Environmental Commitment
Most people think of the industrial and developed world as leaders when it comes to green technologies and environmental stewardship. After moving past their high-growth stages, many developed ... -
The Most Affordable Precious Metals ETFs
Precious metals ETFs invest in both physical commodities and futures contracts for precious metals. -
Playing Blue Gold's Rise
While natural resource investing has exploded in recent years, many portfolios have little to no exposure to water. Find out why they call water "blue gold."
Free Annual Reports
