Impairments and higher gas trading impact Shell’s fourth-quarter earnings

  • Shell flags earnings hit of up to $4.5 billion from impairments
  • Impairments offset by significantly higher gas trading
  • Production volumes on track to meet targets
  • Impairments driven by macro developments and portfolio choices
  • Cash flow from operations to be impacted by $900 million charge related to emissions
  • Integrated gas production expected to be in line with guidance
  • LNG volumes expected to increase in the fourth quarter
  • Gains from integrated gas trading expected to be higher
  • Expected adjusted earnings loss in the chemicals segment

Shell announced that its fourth-quarter earnings were impacted by impairments, resulting in a hit of up to $4.5 billion. However, this was offset by significantly higher gas trading. The impairments were primarily driven by macro developments and portfolio choices, including the potential sale of its Singapore chemicals and products assets. Shell also expects a cash flow impact from a $900 million charge related to emissions. Despite declining oil and gas prices, the company’s production volumes are on track to meet targets. Integrated gas production is expected to be in line with guidance, while LNG volumes are projected to increase. However, the chemicals segment is expected to report an adjusted earnings loss.

Public Companies: Shell (N/A)
Private Companies:
Key People:

Factuality Level: 7
Justification: The article provides specific information about Shell’s fourth-quarter earnings, impairments, production volumes, and trading results. The information seems to be based on Shell’s statements and data. However, there is a lack of context and analysis, and the article does not provide any sources or quotes from Shell representatives. Therefore, while the information presented may be accurate, the article could benefit from more thorough reporting and verification.

Noise Level: 6
Justification: The article provides information on Shell’s fourth-quarter earnings and production volumes, as well as the factors impacting their performance. It includes details on impairments, gas trading, and portfolio choices. However, it lacks in-depth analysis, evidence, and actionable insights. The article stays on topic and does not dive into unrelated territories.

Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: Shell’s fourth-quarter earnings and cash flow from operations are expected to be impacted by impairments and charges related to emissions payments.

Presence of Extreme Event: No
Nature of Extreme Event: No
Impact Rating of the Extreme Event: No
Justification: The article discusses the financial impact on Shell’s earnings and cash flow, but there is no mention of an extreme event.

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