Bound for Vegas - Art Bergmann (1989)

We are pleased to be a return exhibitor at the OPIS National Supply Summit now in its 12th year to take place at The Palazzo in Las Vegas, NV next week October 24th through the 26th.

Stop by and visit us at Booth 109 and see what's new in energy education and training whether it be instructor-led, in-house or web-based. Try your luck at our Energy Wheel of Fortune for a chance to win free web-based courses as well as discounts on our public courses.

Yours truly, Jobert Abueva, Director - Global Marketing and North American Sales, will be on hand along with Jane Goddard, Senior Account Executive, to answer any questions.

To set up an appointment ahead of time please contact us: info@oxfordprinceton.com.

See you in Vegas.

Jump - Van Halen (1984)

So oil jumps back past $80 a barrel last Friday to $81.58 on November futures making it the first time since early August. It looks like a turbulent F/X market with central banks seeming to devalue their currencies left and right is having an impact.

How will it fair as we progress into the month? Some experts figure that if the U.S. Federal Government expands its stimulus plan in the beginning of 2011, then oil prices could rise as much as 6% to around $83 a barrel.

What do you think? Also, where might the price end up when 2010 is said and done? We are looking to award the closest guestimate with a prize. See our future monthly e-newsletters and this space for further details.

Part of the Plan - Dan Folgerberg (1975)

Some of you are true forward planners and want to know what the course schedule will be for 2011. Well, we did listen up and you now have access to the calendar. The first half is up and the rest of the year should be up in a week. Reserve your seat today on some of the most sought after energy training courses anywhere in the world.

But do note there is still plenty of training to be had in 2010.

50 Candles - Boyz II Men (1994)

OPEC, the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, marks its 50th year on Friday, September 10th. Back in 1960, the five founding members of Iraq, the Islamic Republic of Iran, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Venezuela convened in Baghdad. Today, OPEC is 12 member countries strong and includes Algeria, Angola, Ecuador, Libya, Nigeria, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. (Indonesia suspended its membership in January 2009).

It would be tough to argue against the influence this cartel has had, and continues to do so today, on the oil supply and world markets as members strive to coordinate and unify their petroleum policies. No training on oil supply and trading can be complete without some acknowledgement of OPEC’s reach and that is certainly the case with The Oxford Princeton Programme’s unsurpassed array of such courses.

For more on OPEC’s observance of this milestone, log onto http://www.opec.org/.

Read a Book - Pylon (1980)

If you are still looking to squeeze in a book or two into what remains of your summer reading list, here are "Five Best" titles on the oil industry as suggested by Peter Maass (author of Crude World: The Violent Twilight of Oil, Vintage) in this weekend's edition of The Wall Street Journal:

1. The History of the Standard Oil Company by Ida M. Rabell, McClure, Phillips, 1904

The rise of the company's and it's owner, John D. Rockefeller.

2. The Seven Sisters by Anthony Sampson, Viking, 1975

Political clout wielded by the largest Western oil companies during the 1970s.

3. The Bottom Billion by Paul Collier, Oxford, 2007

Exploring the paradox of oil's baleful effects including corruption and dictatorship.

4. Cities of Salt by Abdelrahman Munif, Random House, 1987

A fictional account of oil's discovery in the Middle East; think "Giant" the movie in the desert.

5. A Month and a Day by Ken Saro-Wiwa, Penguin, 1995

Ecological and political travesties that led the author to put his life on the line within the Niger Delta.

Energy Dance - Gary Moore Band (1973)

Quick, name the seven countries that have made the largest investments in alterative energy which includes wind, solar, biofuels, low carbon, geothermal, marine and small hydroelectric.

Took me awhile and I got only four of them right.

Here they are, according to Fast Company:

1. China - $34.6 billion (147.5% - 5-year growth rate in investment)

2. USA - $18.6 billion (102.7%)

3. UK - $11.2 billion (127.5%)

4. Spain - $10.4 billion (79.7%)

5. Brazil - $7.4 billion (147.8%)

6. Germany - $4.3 billion (75.3%)

7. Canada - $3.3. billion (70.2%)

To learn more about the key drivers of this accelerating sector check out our Overview of the Renewables Industry web-based course.

Back to Chicago - Styx (1990)

If you are headed to the LDC Gas Forum in Chicago running next month from Monday, September 13th through Wednesday, the 15th, why not extend your stay the rest of the week and round out your knowledge of the marketplace with two of our exclusive North American Nat Gas courses?

Overview of the North American Natural Gas Industry
Thursday, September 16, 2010

North American Natural Gas Transportation and Storage
Friday, September 17, 2010

Last year, a number of LDC Forum delegates did take advantage of the convenient schedule and found it quite beneficial as the courses provided an opportunity to confirm and further comprehend what they took away from the conference still very fresh on their minds.

Even if you aren't attending the Forum, we welcome you to join us for this education event.

Back to You - Blue (2001)

Apologies for the absence of recent postings. The best excuses I can come up with are lame: the heat wave won't stop; the World Cup lasts a whole month; hey, it's summer!

Truth be told it has been super busy around here at The Oxford Princeton Programme. We have updated the public course schedule with new courses and sessions. We have added new titles to our web-based library. We have brought in new faculty. We are also updating all of our marketing materials to ensure they properly reflect all that's new.

In late June, I had the pleasure of being part of our first ever Energy Education Summit held in Central London. Client company representatives got to sample our instructor-led courses as well as demo our web-based training portal. They also got to network with their colleagues acorss the indsutry. If you were not able to make it but would like to learn more about our wide array of offerings or to join us for next year's summit, do contact us: info@oxfordprinceton.com.

With half of 2010 now history, it's prime time to consider your training needs for the rest of the year. We do hope to be of assistance in this regard.

I'll Meet You There - Owl City (2008)

If you are in London either tomorrow or Wednesday join us as we hold our first ever Energy Education Summit at the CBI Centre (Centre Point). Meet with our energy education experts who will offer samplings from their courses. Featured topics include derivatives, shipping, oil and gas. We shall also be offering demos of our popular web-based training courses. Leave with a free course voucher and perhaps you too could be the lucky recipient of an Apple iPad (R).

For further information and to register for this complimnetary event, click here.

I'll Meet You There - WhiteHeart (1989)

Hello from Singapore as I head on to Kuala Lumpur to represent The Oxford Princeton Programme at the 15th Asia Oil & Gas Conference organised by Petronas and being held 6-8 June at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre in Malaysia.

If you are attending, please do stop by at booth stand #10 where I will be joined by our new regional Accout Executive, Chiu Eng Hiap (Sean), to introduce delegates to our wide array of training options. Try your luck at winning free web-based courses, discounts for forthcoming public courses, and other prizes.

See you in KL!

Jobert Abueva

Director, Global Marketing

jabueva@oxfordprinceton.com

Photo Courtesy of Touring Malaysia

When You Wish Upon A Star - Glenn Miller, et al (1940)

Seeking excellent energy derivaitves training while the kids enjoy Disneyland?

Consider these courses arriving in Anaheim next month:

Energy Derivatives Markets, Isntruments and Hedging
14-15 June 2010

Advanced Energy Derivatives pricing, Hedging and Risk Management
16-17 June 2010

It's A Gas - David Frye (1969)

We are pleased to be returning to GASMART which runs next week (May 10-12) at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel and Towers. Stop by Booth #109 and meet with Jane Goddard, Sr. Account Executive, and Kristi Ruskuski, Assistant Global Marketing Manager, who are available to discuss our various energy training options.

Here are five good reasons to stop by:

1) Learn about our new courses including North American Gas and Power Trading and Risk Management;

2) Try your luck on our Web-based Training Wheel of Fortune and win a prize

3) Receive a special event-only discount for forthcoming Natural Gas courses in Chicago.

4) Enter our lucky draw raffle. You could win an Apple iPad (R)!

5) Jane and Kristi are nice people.

To contact Jane: jgoddard@oxfordprinceton.com

To contact Kristi: kruskuski@oxfordprinceton.com

See you in Chicago!

Wind of Change - Peter Frampton (1976)

The U.S.'s first offshore wind farm, 130 turbines to be situated on Nantucket Sound off Massachussetts, was approved today by Interior Secrataty Ken Salazar. The project has had a number of critics whose voices have grown louder with today's announcement.

To gain perspective on wind and other forms of renewable energy sources, you can take our recently published self-paced web-based coruse on Overview of the Renwables Industry.

To read more on today's news event on cnn.com, click here.

Image: CNN.com

Show Me What You Got - Jay-Z (2006)

This spring's edition of the Training Industry Quarterly has an article on "Marketing the Benefits of Training" which encourages training organizations to tout their successes by:

• Effectively Branding their learning organization
• Ensuring that training results are measured
• Building a Communication Plan that focuses on both traditional and web/social media technologies to gain the desired exposure whether internal or external.

The article argues that doing so "results in enhanced credibility and image within the company and that external marketing efforts can lead to improved company image, shareholder impression, recruitment efforts, media exposure, public relations effort, etc."

I share this because The Oxford Princeton Programme offers a number of tools and materials which enhance branding and measurability of results. We are also glad to offer, at no additonal cost, ideas on how to build your communication plan.

Clients who do take advantage, appreciate these as value-added to their efforts in times like these when the training dollar is meant to stretch much further than before.

Care to have a conversation on this? We have case studies to share and are just an e-mail or phone call away.

Eruption - Van Halen (1978)

As of right now, the NATS (National Air Traffic Services) advises that the "situation regarding the volcanic eruption in Iceland remains dynamic and the latest information from the Met Office shows that the situation will continue to be variable."

Not what the airlines, stranded passengers and businesses as a whole want to hear, that's for sure.

This event has required companies like ours to turn to contingency plans to ensure the most minimal of disruptions. For clients that already have scheduled on-sites/in-house training, be rest assured that we are doing everything to ensure they are installed lace on time. The same goes for our public courses unless otherwise noted.

You can always check our website (www.oxfordprinceton.com) for the latest developments. Do not hesitate to e-mail us with your queries at info@oxfordprinceton.com.

If you are ever in need of immediate training you can always look into our library of self-paced web-based courses on www.princetonlive.com.

Hoping the delays abate and air transport returns to normal soon.

Grow - Bourbon Tabernacle Choir (1992)

According to today's Commodities Now's e-newsletter, global ethanol production is to reach a record 85.9 bn litres this year and a growth of 16.2% vs. last year. This was confirmed by the Global Renewable Fuels Alliance and which in its recently released report forecasts continued growth. This will displace 370 million equivalent barrels of oil worldwide.

The US remains the leader in ethanol production with more than 45 billion litres projected for 2010. Brazil, the world’s No. 2 producer, just removed a tariff on ethanol imports n an effort to get others to eliminate their own duties and enable it to export more. Several developing countries such as Malawi and Nigeria are also turning to ethanol to improve their economic prospects.


We are bringing our highly-acclaimed workshop on The Emerging Ethanol Energy Markets - A Comprehensive Overview coming to The Magnolia Hotel in Houston on Thursday, May 13th 2010. Join us and get a head start on this sector's growth.

To read the complete article, click here.

New Direction – Sugar Ray (1999)

I picked up the article below, highlighting Ontario’s commitment to renewable energy, on RenewableEnergyWorld.com. It really exemplifies how nations and companies around the world are moving from renewable energy being a long-term ideal to an immediate solution. If renewable energy is of interest I encourage you to see the new web-based training course below covering the industry.
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Ontario's government announced that contract offers have been awarded for more than 180 renewable energy projects. Approved under the province's Feed-in Tariff (FIT), the projects are part of the largest green energy investment of its kind in Canadian history.

The 184 projects announced will generate enough energy to power 600,000 homes, the Ontario Power Authority reported. The projects represent almost 2,500 megawatts of renewable energy.

Seventy-six of the approved projects are ground-mounted solar photovoltaic, 47 are on-shore wind and 46 are hydropower projects, the OPA reported. There are also seven biogas, two biomass, four landfill gas, one roof top solar and one off-shore wind projects.

The renewable energy projects are in addition to the 510 renewable energy contract offers totaling 112 megawatts (MW) approved recently. The FIT Program was enabled by the Green Energy and Green Economy Act, 2009. The Ontario Power Authority is responsible for implementing the program.

“These projects are the latest accomplishments of the Green Energy Act, which is making Ontario a place of destination for green energy development, manufacturing and expertise," said Ontario’s Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, Brad Duguid.

The total 694 Feed-in Tariff (FIT) contract offers announced to date will create 20,000 direct and indirect green jobs and attract about $9 billion in private sector investment, as well as investment in new Ontario-based manufacturing, the OPA reported.

“In six short months the Feed-in Tariff program has delivered strong results and has more than exceeded our expectations,” said Ontario Power Authority CEO Colin Andersen.
---

Overview of the Renewables Industry
Two hour self-paced web-based training course.

This course provides an introduction to renewable energy resources that are emerging as major parts of the solution to global warming as well as a way to gain energy independence from the inherent power struggles over the fossil fuels of oil, coal, and natural gas. We will cover each renewable energy resource in a separate lesson. At the end, we will review the major reasons renewables are not readily adopted in the marketplace, and some of the ways government and utility operators are using to increase the pace of adoption.

For a complete course outline or to register please visit https://www.princetonlive.com/default.aspx?acronym=ori

Think Again – Blackhawk (1998)

Reported by CNN, the USS Nicholas came under attack from pirates around midnight on Thursday April 1st in the Indian Ocean. The fire fight took place in international waters west of the Seychelles and ended with the sinking of the pirate boat. Also, the U.S. Navy has confirmed they captured five pirate suspects as well as their mother ship.

This story comes on the heels of a similar incident off the coast of Somalia where one pirate was killed and another six were arrested after a confrontation with a merchant ship. Therefore in the last few weeks dangerous piracy attempts were faced and circumvented by both a private merchant and the U.S. Navy. These two instances demonstrate the low tolerance and swift actions ships have been forced to take when dealing with potential pirate vessels.

Are these just small victories in a seemingly out of control war or are they signs real change is taking place?

Join a hostage survivor, kidnap negotiators, a captain who repelled a hijack attempt and leading experts on the forefront of today’s energy terrorism threats.

Energy Terrorism Conference: Countering Threats to Physical Assets and Human Capital
29-30 June 2010 – CBI Center in London, UK
http://energyterrorism.com/

Danger Zone – Gwen Stefani (2004)

The seas off the coast of Somalia very rarely remain silent for any extended period of time. The latest example of the anarchy on the high seas involves a pirate attack on a merchant ship that left one pirate dead and six others arrested. This is just a small victory in an otherwise large and uncontrollable war on the water. This case is of particular interest because it is the first confirmed kill by a hired guard on board a ship. Many ships have been turning to third party protection because naval assistant has become spread thin as the brazen pirates move father out to sea.

Several organizations and experts have expressed concern that these “hired guns” may only encourage pirates to become more violent. Therefore, they suggest this may inadvertently escalate the already dangerous situation off the coast of Africa. Take into account potential legal ramifications that arise with the state or the vessel’s insurance and you’re faced with a perplexing dilemma. Indeed there are countless political, legal and humanitarian facets to this otherwise barbaric issue.

What are your thoughts on this story and the overall issue?

If you find yourself interested to learn more or consider yourself a party with a stake in this piracy concern I recommend you visit http://energyterrorism.com/.

Energy Terrorism Conference: Countering Threats to Physical Assets and Human Capital
29-30 June 2010 – CBI Center in London, UK
http://energyterrorism.com/

March Madness – Canaries & Cobble Hill Chorus (2001)

In just hours the first round of March Madness will tip off across the United States. For those of you unfamiliar, March Madness is a single elimination basketball tournament played between the top 64 universities in the United States. Its popularity is only rivaled by that of the Super Bowl and could arguably surpass it. These 64 teams come from all parts of the country with players who represent all nations of the world. As student athletes they play not for money and endorsements but for pride and love of the game. These are surely qualities that anyone can appreciate.

With so much at stake, you might find it surprising that every team relies on one single factor for success. Each team must call upon their training to guide them to victory. The only aspect that separates them is which team did the most quality training. That team will survive March Madness and play into April to become the National Champion.

The corporate world is quite similar though the motivating factors differ there is still sense of pride and desire to succeed. The never ending competition in the energy industry brings an even greater reward for success.

So I ask you, has your team done the most quality energy training possible?

Upcoming Energy Training Worldwide:

Business Analysis and Project Finance

Trading, Derivatives, Hedging and Risk Management

Oil Industry

Natural Gas Industry

Power Industry

Take it from Thomas J. Peters, bestselling author on business management practices, “Train everyone lavishly, you can't overspend on training.”

Ever Present Past – Paul McCartney (2007)

According to Forbes Magazine, Occidental is out to disprove the widespread thought that the days of “easy oil” have passed by the U.S. With their industry peers moving towards endeavors of all sorts, offshore, LNG and Canadian oil sands, Oxy is sticking to their proverbial guns. Simply put by Oxy’s President Steven Chazen, “We’re in the oil recovery business, not in the oil discovery business.” This theory led them to an oil find of an estimated 1 billion barrels in California last year. The irony of this, what some are calling a “game-changer” find, is that it is situated over a 100 year old field. The executives of Occidental believe that the best place to find new oil is in old oil fields. In this particular case they are clearly enjoying the fruits of their business model.

Do you believe this theory can stand the test of time or are finds like this too rare to sustain a company and industry?

Read the complete Forbes Magazine article:
Occidental Petroleum’s Path to Easy Oil by Christopher Helman


Upcoming Oil Trading Workshops Worldwide:

International Oil Trading and Pricing
22 - 26 Mar 2010 in Oxford, UK

Overview of Physical Crude Oil Trading and Operations
22 - 23 Mar 2010 in Calgary, AB

Oil Trading Orientation
12 - 14 Apr 2010 in Houston, TX

Principles of International Oil Trading
14 - 17 Apr 2010 in Singapore

“Look to the past for guidance into the future.” - Robert Jacob Goodkin

Unsolved Mystery - Twista (1997)

According to the MarEx Newsletter, last Friday, Somali pirates took over UBT Ocean, a Norwegian chemical tanker off the coast of Madagascar. There was a crew of 21 aboard. It was enroute from Fujairah, UAE to Dar es Salaan, Tanzania. Unfortunately, there has been no contact between Nautictank, the ship's operator, and the ship itself since and hence, the security of the crew and cargo remains in question.

This unfortunate headline continues to place a spotlight on the need to counter such terrorst acts which will be addressed at our forthcoming Energy Terrorism Conference: Countering Threats to Physical Assets and Human Capital on 29-30 June 2010 at the CBI Centre in London.

Danger - Idle Eyes (1985)

My daily alert from TradeWinds yesterday came across as:

PIRATES NABBED
Spate of attacks on vessels in Somali Basin leads to arrest of 11 suspected pirate by French Navy. Eleven suspected pirates have been collared by the French Navy as at least three vessels came under attack in the Indian Ocean in the past day.

This headline highlights the persisting high seas danger faced by shippers and precisely why our forthcoming Energy Terrorism Conference at the CBI Centre in London on 29-30 June 2010 is a must-attend for those engaged in countering such threats to their assets, both physical and human.

The updated agenda and featured speakers list is now available on www.energyterrorism.com.

Join us this June in London.

Any Day Now – Elvis Presley (1969)

At the annual Subsea Tieback Forum in Galveston, TX over 50 UK companies were exhibiting their products or services. These companies, with their international experience and knowledge, hope to expand their presence in the Gulf of Mexico’s subsea market. All of this interest comes on the back of the confidence and positive outlook the industry exudes.

Were you in attendance at this forum and if so do you care to share your experience?

In order to further crack this market UK companies will need to turn to timely energy training to fully understand the market intricacies. This is especially true when considering several of these players would be considered industry service companies. They will undoubtedly make their mark in the Gulf of Mexico but will it be sooner or later? If you are in competition with these companies I recommend being proactive rather than responsive. In other words, train now to stay ahead of the field.

2010 Global Energy Training Schedule

Take the advice of the late Peter Drucker, most famous for his scholarly articles on business management, “Today knowledge has power. It controls access to opportunity and advancement.”

Are you ready? – Bob Dylan (1980)

Succeeding in the energy derivatives and physical markets can be daunting. Whether you are a seasoned veteran of the industry or find yourself beginning a new career path the importance of proper training cannot be quantified. Physical and paper transactions along with regulated exchange-traded and over the counter (OTC) products present their own strategies and challenges. At times it’s important to hedge when dealing with energy derivatives. However, don’t hedge success by passing up world-class energy derivatives training.

Energy Derivatives Markets, Instruments and Hedging

For a complete course outline click here.

26-27 April 2010 in Houston, TX

10-11 May 2010 in Calgary, AB

7-8 June 2010 in London, UK

14-15 June 2010 in Anaheim, CA

Energy Derivatives Pricing, Hedging and Risk Management

For a complete course outline click here.

28-29 April 2010 in Houston, TX

12-13 May 2010 in Calgary, AB

9-10 June 2010 in London, UK

Advanced Energy Derivatives Pricing, Hedging and Risk Management

For a complete course outline click here.

22-23 April 2010 in Calgary, AB

26-27 May 2010 in Houston, TX

16-17 June 2010 in Anaheim, CA

16-17 August in Singapore

6-7 December 2010 in London, UK

Certificate in Derivatives Pricing, Hedging and Risk Management

For a complete programme outline click here.

As the motivational speaker Harry Hartman once said, “Success always comes when preparation meets opportunity.”

The opportunity will come in your career but will you be ready for it?

As Safe As Yesterday – Humble Pie (1969)

There were many buzzwords that have haunted the energy industry in the past year but none more disconcerting than terrorism. Countering threats both onshore and offshore has further complicated the logistics of every operation. With the rise in attacks it is essential that all parties involved understand potential threats, prevention, legal issues and risk management to ensure the safety of infrastructure and staff.

One can only gain this acumen by working with the issue’s foremost experts and hearing their experiences and recommendations. This unique opportunity will only be afforded at one upcoming conference:

Energy Terrorism: Countering Threats to Physical Assets and Human Capital
29-30 June 2010 at the CBI Centre – London, UK

The Oxford Princeton Programme is pleased to present a conference on this timely and relevant subject. Over twenty plenary speakers from essential advisory, risk management, insurance, protection, kidnap negotiation and anti-piracy services will engage in a discussion forum on the issues and risks as well as strategies and tactics using in-depth case studies taken directly from news headlines and first-hand encounters. This conference is highly-interactive and includes Q&A sessions, networking coffee breaks/luncheon and an exhibition.

For complete conference agenda, registration information or sponsorship/exhibition opportunities please visit http://energyterrorism.com/.

Quote of the week-
“A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for.” – John A. Shedd

Who's Zoomin' Who - Aretha Franklin (1985)

Whether energy traders, and to be more specific, speculators, had a hand in the oil price spikes of 2008, as well as the collapse of the banking system, is a debate that rages on as Paul Vocker is looking to propose restrictions on banks engaging in such activities. It might be misguided as banks have enabled access to capital for smaller energy companies.

As Loren Steffy's blog at Chron.com indicates, the Federal Government might want to consider with care who exactly is being affected by any regulations coming down the pike.

Where do you stand on this?

Expecting to Fly – Neil Young (1968)

After more than a two year delay the Boeing 787 Dreamliner successfully completed its maiden flight. A new engine combined with a more aerodynamic design and light weight composite materials allow this Boeing to boast fuel efficiency. In fact, the 787 Dreamliner uses 20% less fuel per passenger when compared to planes of similar size. Currently 840 Dreamliners already have been ordered with an expected delivery date in the fourth quarter of 2010. To read this complete story CLICK HERE.

With many airlines moving in the direction of fuel efficient planes how will it affect aviation fuels trading? How will you refine your trading tactics to ensure continued success?

In order to respond to this and any future shifts in the aviation fuels market it is important to fully understand the industry. If you are active in the aviation fuels market or wish to enter it I encourage proper training.

Introduction to the Aviation Fuels Market (IAFM)
This two hour web-based training course provides an overview of the aviation fuels market, covering quality, supply, demand and trading.

You’ll learn the basics of producing aviation fuels in the refinery. We’ll review the different types and quality of jet fuel and aviation gasoline. We’ll also cover the key factors affecting supply, demand and trade flows. You’ll understand how aviation fuels are traded and priced, and how they are distributed to airports.

Finally this course will provide an overview of the outlook for the aviation fuels market. For more information and a complete course outline CLICK HERE.

Quote of the week-
“Technology does not drive change -- it enables change.” - Unknown

Holiday - Madonna (1983)

There is a -- sorry to fellow Northeasterners in the US who just got walloped by two Nor'easters in five days -- "perfect storm" of holidays this weekend.

We, here, at The Oxford Princeton Programme, would like to wish the best to all who celebrate or observe the following:

Lunar Chinese New Year -- Gong Xi Fa Cai -- Sunday, February 14th (please note that our Singapore office is closed both Monday, the 15th and Tuesday, the 16th);

St. Valentine's Day - Sunday, February 14th;

Family Day (Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario)- Monday, February 15th;

President's Day (USA) - Monday, February 15th.

London Calling - Clash (1979)

(From this month's International Edition of The Oxford Princeton Programme Pipeline e-newsletter)

SAVE THE DATE. I am asking you to do so and it is not just for any event.

The Oxford Princeton Programme is pleased to announce our first ever Energy Terrorism Conference: Countering Threats to Physical Assets and Human Capital to take place at the CBI Centre in Central London on 29 - 30 June 2010.

You have come to rely on us to provide world-class energy education and training. We would like you to do the same as we embark on this new, critical and relevant venture that matters to professionals like yourself.

Read more about what's in store when you join the world's leading experts and professionals on the forefront of fighting today's threats to secure onshore and offshore exploration, production, transportation and storage of oil, gas and other commodities as well as the staffs responsible for them.

Registration details can be found here and exhibition and sponsorship packages are also available. Inquire for more details: info@oxfordprinceton.com.

That is 29 - 30 June 2010.

See you in London.

Come Together - Beatles (1969)

We are pleased to be a return exhibitor at E-World Energy & Water 2010 to take place February 9th through the 11th in Messe Essen, Germany.

Visit us at Hall 1.0 Stand 120 and see what's new in energy education and training whether it be instructor-led, in-house or web-based. Take a copy of our 2010 Global Course Offerings Catalogue and try your luck at our Energy Wheel of Fortune.

Mr. Jim Crosskey, Deputy Sales Manager (bottom photo) and Mr. Oliver Wells, Principal Sales Executive (top photo) will be available to discuss details on any of our training offerings.

To set up an appointment ahead of time, e-mail either of them at info@oxfordprinceton.com.

See you there.

Great Expectations – Jurassic 5 (2000)

Grant Thornton’s eighth annual Survey of Upstream U.S. Energy Companies finds optimism coming from industry senior executives. Sharon Hong of The Houston Chronicle writes a wonderful piece, “Many senior energy executives optimistic about 2010,” detailing this which you can find at http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/headline/biz/6839199.html.

Do you think the expectations of the industry will be met in 2010?

There are many promising findings in this article like 67% anticipate increases in domestic expenditures. However, the highlight of the article for me is that half the companies expect to add jobs in 2010. This is surely welcome news for everyone in the energy industry but especially for those trying to enter it. Building a strong skill set on your resume is as important as ever with the competition in the job market.

To build or sharpen your skills in the energy industry I recommend visiting https://www.princetonlive.com/. Here you will find a library of 30 web-based courses covering topics such as: trading, derivatives, hedging, risk management, oil, aviation fuels, natural gas, power, coal, ethanol and much more.

What are your expectations for your career in 2010 and how will you meet them?

I've Got News For You - Straight Lines (1982)

Now that I am receiving The Wall Street Journal at home, I am guaranteed at least one, usually more news stories directly related to the energy sector each day.

Not to worry -- I won't rehash everything I read. But be rest assured I'll share items of interest, starting with a Commodities Report in the Janaury 27th issue on "Traders Bet on an Oil Breakout."

The CBOE Crude Oil Volatility Index has been "bouncing off the bottom" despite the closing prices that are currntly hovering below $75 a barrel. There seems to be increased options trading and the volatility is encouraging the hedging.

To read more, click here.

To gain an advantage on oil trading in 2010, check out some of these courses coming to an energy capital near you.

Time Is Now - Fever Tree (1969)

According to Mobil Cepu Limited, a subsidiary of ExxonMobil Oil Indonesia, we can expect an increase of 25,000 barrels of oil a day from East Java. Banyuurip borders the Java Sea and is home to the Cepu Oilfield. ExxonMobil seems very confident in the prospects of this oil field as they are estimating 5,000 more barrels a day than the government’s target of 20,000. Exceeding the expectation of the intended production rate has come in response to buyer’s demands. If you are among the group of traders who will be moving this oil or have aspirations to be I encourage proper training. To fulfill your needs, look no farther than just northwest of Banyuurip to Singapore or Malaysia.

Upcoming Oil Trading Workshops in Asia Pacific

International Oil Trading - A Practical Approach to the Legal Issues for Successful Management of Claims and Disputes – 12-14 April 2010 in Singapore

Principles of International Oil Trading – 14-17 April 2010 in Singapore

International Oil Trading - Advanced Techniques and Strategic Price Risk Management – 19-21 April 2010 in Singapore

Energy Value Chain – 10-11 May 2010 in Kuala Lumpur

Oil Trading Orientation – 12-14 May 2010 Oil Trading Orientation in Kuala Lumpur

For the complete 2010 Asia Pacific schedule click here.

For the 2010 global schedule of over 250 courses click here.

Head On Collision - Hawk Nelson (2006)

You might be aware that over the weekend, an 800-foot (240-meter) oil tanker owned by AET Tankers of Malaysia collided with a towing vessel pushing two barges near Port Arthur, Texas.

While there is remains uncertainly as to how much oil spilled, it is believed to be a fraction of the 450,000 gallons (1.7 million literes) capacity and no where near the 11 million gallons (41.6 million litres) that spilled from the Exxon Valdez in Alaska's Prince William Sound back in 1989.

To read more click here.

A number of tanker operation training courses are scheduled to take pace in 2010:

Tanker Ownership, Chartering and Operations (TD2)

24-28 May 2010
Oxford, UK

Tanker Ownership, Chartering and Operations (TD2E)

10-12 May 2010
Houston, TX

13-15 October 2010
Singapore

My Hometown - Bruce Springsteen (1985)

Usually the title of my blog post is a song title that is relevant to our topic. However on this day I have used my all time favorite song from The Boss. My hometown is Hillsborough, NJ but given the commodity demand in Asia I might prefer a hometown some 9,500 miles or 15,000 kilometers east.

According to French Bank Societe Generale the Asian market will sustain its demand for commodities. The article I picked up on EnergyAsia.com further explains Societe Generale’s findings. To summarize, they have found that government spending, favorable demographics and the rise of the middle-class are all essential for sustaining this demand. The surge of the Chinese car industry has further driven the commodity demand. In fact, in November 2009 China took over as the world’s largest vehicle market. These factors are no doubt the direct product of the fiscal stimulus plans put into action in response to the global economic downturn.

To read the complete article: http://www.energyasia.com/content/view/18509/1/

If you are thinking about or are actively engaging in this commodity hungry market I encourage proper training.

Upcoming Energy Training Workshops in Singapore

Energy Derivatives Markets, Instruments and Hedging – 8-9 March 2010
Energy Derivatives Pricing, Hedging and Risk Management – 10-11 March 2010

Front to Back Office: Trading Controls and Best Practices – 8 March 2010
Value-at-Risk: The Basics and Beyond – 9 March 2010

Fundamentals of Technical Analysis – 10-11 March 2010
Advanced Technical Analysis and Technical Trading – 12 March 2010

International Oil Trading - A Practical Approach to the Legal Issues for Successful Management of Claims and Disputes – 12-14 April 2010
Principles of International Oil Trading – 14-17 April 2010
International Oil Trading - Advanced Techniques and Strategic Price Risk Management – 19-21 April 2010

For the complete 2010 Asia Pacific schedule click here.

I always want to hear from our readers. Feel free to post any comments or questions below. Or maybe you just want to tell me your favorite song so I can use it in a future post.

Help Somebody - Van Zant (2005)

The devastation in Haiti has had a profound impact on the world and we are trying to do our part in bringing relief to its people.

The Oxford Princeton Programme will be holding charity days at our offices next week to raise cash to be donated to organizations engaged in recovery efforts. Events include a luncheon, bake sale as well as a raffle that employees contribute towards.

We encourage all our partners, clients and friends to come together to do their part in assisting those in much and urgent need. Any effort, big or small, can make a difference.

Here are a few organizations worth considering for your donations:

The American Red Cross
UNICEF

Any others we should be listing, please let us know.

Thank you.

Winter Marches On - Duran Duran (1986)

Natural gas stores in Britain have been severely depleted in recent weeks due to unusually cold weather.

Gas use actually broke records this week: the 454 million cubic meters used on January 7 was the most since the same day in 2003, BBC reported. Gas consumption on Friday was projected to surpass even Thursday's figure.

Jeremy Bending, director of network strategy at electric utility National Grid, reassured Britons that there would not be a "lack of gas."

The Wall Street Journal noted that Britain's focus on reducing carbon emissions has left it with paltry fossil fuel stores. Even compared to carbon-conscious Germany - which has gas storage capacity equivalent to 19 percent of annual consumption - Britain's reserves are minimal: The nation has capacity equal to just 4 percent of consumption.

The gas-rich U.S., by contrast, has storage capacity equivalent to 100 percent of consumption.

European countries, unlike America, are import-dependent with regard to natural gas. The U.K. may need to import 70 percent of the gas it needs by 2015, the Journal reported. Germany, for its part, depends on natural gas for 23 percent of its energy use; most of its gas comes from Russia.

Breaking news brought to you by The Oxford Princeton Programme (www.oxfordprinceton.com)

Overview of the European Natural Gas Industry (ENG)
16 March 2010 in London, UK

Exploring European Natural Gas Markets (EEGM)
17-18 March 2010 in London, UK

Easy Money - King Crimson (1973)

Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin was in attendance this week at the opening of the Eastern Siberia-Pacific Ocean pipeline. This pipeline will transport up to 1.6 million barrels a day of oil from Russia to China. Putin also suggested that crude is more profitable than refined products. Take a look below at an excerpt from the article.

“Strange as it may seem, it is more profitable to sell crude oil," Putin said. He suggested that refined products require more manpower and equipment, adding that crude sells for a higher price on world markets.

For the full article click here.

Do you agree with Putin’s suggestion about the profitability of crude over refined products and what is your reasoning?

If you are unsure I encourage you to have a look at two upcoming courses covering crude oil trading and petroleum refining that can clear up any questions or misconceptions.

Overview of Physical Crude Oil Trading and Operations

12 - 13 Jan 2010 in London, UK
19 - 20 Jan 2010 in Singapore
25 - 26 Jan 2010 in Houston, TX
8 - 9 Feb 2010 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Fundamentals of Petroleum Refining - A Non-Technical Introduction

14 - 15 Jan 2010 in London, UK
27 - 28 Jan 2010 in Houston, TX
10 - 11 Feb 2010 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Up & Down - Eyes of Blue (1966)

According to the January 11, 2010 issue of BusinessWeek, with crude futures running over $80 a barrel, and the dual impact of a stronger dollar and colder weather, forecasters are at odds as to where prices will be headed in 2010.

On the bullish end, a high of $94, due to dwindling inventories; on the bearish end, a $40 low thanks to saturation and a growing glut.

Which way do you see prices going in 2010?

And while you are at it, consider several of our oil trading and pricing courses held across all inhabitable continents throughout the year. They are designed for all levels of expertise in and out of commodity trading.

Everything's Gone Green - New Order (1981)

One man's garbage is his own gas?

This curious video report from CNN International has a Cairo-based resident renewing waste into energy for his home. He was even able to build his own solar panels. Talk about going green in an "easier said than done" kind of fashion.

Are you or your organization involved in renewables and have expertise to share as a subject matter expert? If so, we'd like to hear from you.

Ride Like the Wind - Christopher Cross (1980)

Greetings for a happy and prosperous 2010 from the Philippines where I am finishing up my holidays.

One of my trip's highlights has been to visit the Bangui Bay 15-tower wind farm in the Ilocos Norte Province near the northern tip of Luzon (yes, that's me up close and personal with the ginormous turbines).

It is the first wind power project in the Philippines and the largest energy-generating set in Southeast Asia. The turbines catch breezes blowing in from the South China Sea and convert it into a total of 24.75 megawatts of energy. To learn more about this project, read on.

It was an apt encounter to start the year with given the exciting directions we are taking at The Oxford Princeton Programme.

We shall be offering content that address the growing green and reneawables sectors such as in Energy Project Finance - A Practical Approach for Non-Finance Managers and a soon to be released web-based course (more details come February).

We'll indeed be riding like the wind in 2010 and we do hope you will join us as we continue to offer the most comprehensive menu of training titles available to professionals dedicated to the business of energy.

Stay tuned.