The Rising Influence of Rising Affluence

[Democritus_of_Abdera]

Re HES & Elliott..

I don't know how this conflict will affect HES stock prices and am waiting until I get a better read on the situation...

My general feeling (without supporting data) is that the previous Elliott initiative resulting in the spin off of HES' refinery operation was a mistake. Hence, I don't have much confidence in Elliott's vision.

On the other hand, I support a reduction in the dividend (since I believe that HES will need cash to take full advantage of the Guyana oil discovery in the next few years). I would rather the cash be kept on the balance sheet... but, at least if it is used for a stock buyback, that stock can be reissued when cash is needed.