#Oil and gas companies

[rjzimmerman]

Here are the poll results, in tabular format, described in the linked New Republic article:

[imperialchem]

Preserving Assets:  The Role of Corrosion Inhibitors in Industrial Maintenance

Corrosion is a persistent threat to industrial assets, causing billions of dollars in damages annually across various sectors.  From oil and gas facilities to manufacturing plants, the impact of corrosion can be devastating, leading to equipment failures, production downtime, and costly repairs.  However, with the right preventive measures in place, such as corrosion inhibitors, industrial facilities can effectively mitigate the risk of corrosion and prolong the lifespan of their assets.  As a leading chemical company in Vadodara, Imperial Oilfield Chemicals Pvt. Ltd. (ICPL) understands the critical role of corrosion inhibitors in industrial maintenance.  In this blog post, we'll explore the importance of corrosion inhibitors, their applications, and the expertise of ICPL as a corrosion inhibitor manufacturer and exporter in India.

Understanding Corrosion Inhibitors

Corrosion inhibitors are chemical compounds designed to protect metal surfaces from the damaging effects of corrosion.  By forming a protective barrier on the metal surface or altering the corrosion process, inhibitors prevent or slow down the oxidation and deterioration of metals in corrosive environments.  Corrosion inhibitors are widely used in various industries, including oil and gas, petrochemicals, power generation, water treatment, and manufacturing, to safeguard critical assets and infrastructure from corrosion-related failures.

The Importance of Corrosion Inhibitors in Industrial Maintenance

1.   Asset Protection:  Industrial facilities rely heavily on equipment and infrastructure made of metal, such as pipelines, tanks, vessels, and machinery.  Corrosion inhibitors play a crucial role in protecting these assets from corrosion, extending their service life and reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements.

2.   Cost Savings:  Corrosion-related failures can result in significant financial losses due to equipment downtime, production disruptions, and repair expenses.  By incorporating corrosion inhibitors into maintenance programs, industries can minimize the risk of corrosion-related failures and realize substantial cost savings in the long run.

3.   Safety and Reliability:  Corrosion compromises the structural integrity of industrial assets, posing safety hazards to personnel and the surrounding environment.  Corrosion inhibitors help maintain the reliability and safety of critical infrastructure, reducing the likelihood of accidents, spills, and environmental contamination.

4.   Environmental Protection:  Corrosion-related leaks and spills can have detrimental environmental consequences, polluting soil, water bodies, and ecosystems.  By preventing corrosion and minimizing the risk of leaks and spills, corrosion inhibitors contribute to environmental protection and sustainability efforts.

Applications of Corrosion Inhibitors

Corrosion inhibitors find applications across various industrial sectors, where metal components are exposed to corrosive environments.  Some common applications of corrosion inhibitors include:

Oil and Gas Production:  In the oil and gas industry, corrosion inhibitors are used to protect pipelines, well casings, and production equipment from corrosion caused by corrosive fluids, gases, and environmental conditions.

Water Treatment:  Corrosion inhibitors are added to cooling water systems, boilers, and wastewater treatment facilities to prevent metal corrosion caused by dissolved oxygen, scale formation, and aggressive ions.

Manufacturing:  In manufacturing processes involving metal components, such as automotive, aerospace, and electronics manufacturing, corrosion inhibitors are used to protect parts, components, and machinery from corrosion during production, storage, and transportation.

Marine and Offshore Structures:  Corrosion inhibitors are applied to marine vessels, offshore platforms, and coastal structures to protect against corrosion in seawater environments.

ICPL:  Your Trusted Corrosion Inhibitor Manufacturer and Exporter in India

As the best chemical company in Vadodara, ICPL is dedicated to delivering high-quality corrosion inhibitors tailored to the specific needs of industrial clients.  Here's why ICPL is the preferred choice for corrosion inhibitors in India:

Expertise and Experience:  With decades of experience in the chemical industry, ICPL possesses the expertise and technical know-how to develop and manufacture corrosion inhibitors that meet the highest quality standards and regulatory requirements.

State-of-the-Art Facilities:  ICPL operates state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities equipped with advanced technologies and production processes to ensure the consistent quality and performance of its corrosion inhibitors.

Customized Solutions:  ICPL offers customized corrosion inhibitor formulations tailored to the unique requirements and operating conditions of industrial applications.  Our team of experts works closely with clients to develop solutions that address specific corrosion challenges and performance objectives.

Global Reach:  As a corrosion inhibitor exporter in India, ICPL serves clients worldwide, exporting its products to diverse markets across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and beyond.  With a strong global presence and distribution network, ICPL delivers reliable corrosion protection solutions to industries around the globe.

Conclusion

In conclusion, corrosion inhibitors play a crucial role in industrial maintenance by protecting metal assets from the damaging effects of corrosion.  As a leading corrosion inhibitor manufacturer and exporter in India, ICPL is committed to providing high-quality corrosion inhibitors that safeguard critical infrastructure, ensure operational reliability, and promote cost-effective maintenance practices.  With ICPL's expertise, customized solutions, and global reach, industries can effectively mitigate the risk of corrosion and preserve the integrity of their assets for years to come.  Contact ICPL today to learn more about our corrosion inhibitor products and solutions.

[thoughtportal]

Billionaires and their stupid hobbies

[meandmybigmouth]

THE WILL FALL AND THE MONEY SAYS IT WON’T!

[poojagblog-blog]

The global Digital Oilfield Market is expected to reach USD 43.0 billion by 2029 from USD 30.1 billion in 2023 at a CAGR of 6.3% during the forecast period according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets™.

[stevemaclellan]

A decision by Canada’s largest oil- and gas-producing province to halt new wind and solar projects has prompted disbelief among environmental groups and economists. The move comes as the country struggles with its worst wildfire season on record, a situation that experts agree is worsened by the climate crisis and a reliance on fossil fuels.

Alberta last week announced a six-month moratorium on large solar and wind projects so it can review policies surrounding the projects’ construction and impact on the power grid, as well as rules for their eventual decommissioning.

“This came as a complete shock to the industry. And it’s really a broader shock to all industries in Alberta, for a government to take such a drastic action without any consultation,” said Jorden Dye, acting director of Business Renewables Centre Canada.

Nearly C$2bn worth of projects have been proposed in recent months in the province, and Dye warns companies might look to other jurisdictions to develop them.

The decision to freeze projects is a “mistake”, the head of the Canadian Renewable Energy Association said in a statement, warning the move will weaken investor confidence in the province, which represents 75% of the country’s renewable growth since last year.

[lamajaoscura]

Alito’s Wife Leased Land to an Oil and Gas Firm While Justice Fought EPA

[ecodrisil]

What are the ESG topics that matter to Oil & Gas companies? 

The oil and gas industry is undergoing a transformative shift as companies increasingly prioritize Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations. Driven by the urgent need to address climate change, social responsibility, and ethical business practices, this shift goes beyond regulatory compliance. For the oil and gas sector, ESG is about aligning operations with sustainable practices that mitigate the industry's impact on the planet and the communities it touches. This transformation affects strategies, investments, and day-to-day operations, with a focus on emissions reduction, community well-being, resource efficiency, ethical governance, and adapting to regulatory changes. 

ESG Topics That Matter for Oil and Gas Companies 

Oil and gas companies face growing pressure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, minimize their environmental impact, and adopt responsible resource extraction practices. ESG considerations help firms not only mitigate risks but also position themselves for long-term success in a rapidly evolving energy landscape. Below are some of the key ESG topics that are critical for the oil and gas industry today. 

Climate Change and Carbon Emissions 

The urgency to combat climate change puts a spotlight on carbon-intensive industries, with oil and gas being a major focus. Reducing carbon emissions, enhancing energy efficiency, and transitioning to renewable energy sources are business imperatives. By adopting low-carbon technologies and cleaner energy alternatives, companies can reduce their carbon footprint while staying competitive. 

To effectively manage this, companies should set ambitious targets, such as achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with interim milestones like a 30% reduction by 2030. Investing in renewable energy sources and implementing carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies can further reduce risks. For example, BP has committed to becoming a net-zero company by 2050, aiming to reduce operational emissions by 30-35% by 2030. 

Health, Safety, and Community Well-being 

Operating in challenging environments, oil and gas companies must prioritize the safety of their workforce and maintain strong relationships with local communities. This includes implementing robust safety protocols, investing in training programs, and actively engaging with communities to address their concerns. By fostering inclusive and safe working conditions, companies can earn the trust of stakeholders and strengthen their social license to operate. 

Resource Efficiency and Waste Management 

Effective management of natural resources, such as water and energy, is crucial for the oil and gas sector. Companies are increasingly adopting innovative technologies to optimize resource use, reduce waste, and manage emissions. These practices help meet environmental regulations and drive cost savings through improved operational efficiency. 

Ethical Governance and Transparency 

Governance practices play a vital role in establishing a company’s integrity. Transparent decision-making, accountability, and adherence to regulations are key components of ethical governance. Companies that implement strong governance frameworks demonstrate a commitment to ethical practices, which builds stakeholder trust and attracts responsible investments. 

Adaptation to Regulatory Changes 

The evolving regulatory landscape presents both challenges and opportunities for oil and gas companies. Adopting ESG principles can help companies anticipate and adapt to new regulations, ensuring compliance while reducing legal and reputational risks. 

An Example of ESG Report from an Oil and Gas Company: ExxonMobil 

ExxonMobil’s 2023-2024 progress report illustrates the company’s efforts towards sustainability, focusing on emissions reduction, investments in low-carbon technology, operational efficiency, and community engagement. These initiatives underscore ExxonMobil's commitment to aligning its operations with ESG principles. 

Emissions Reduction: ExxonMobil reported a 15% reduction in operational emissions compared to 2022, as part of their broader strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in support of a net-zero future. The 2030 emission-reduction plans include a target to reduce corporate-wide greenhouse gas intensity by 20-30%, with upstream reductions of 40-50%. Additionally, the company aims to achieve a 70-80% reduction in methane intensity and a 60-70% reduction in flaring intensity compared to 2016 levels. These initiatives focus on optimizing energy use, implementing new technologies, and improving energy management practices. 

Investment in Low-Carbon Technologies: ExxonMobil increased its planned investments for lower-emission initiatives from 2022 through 2027 to approximately $17 billion, representing a nearly 15% increase. These investments are aimed at reducing emissions in the company's operations and enabling others to reduce their emissions through technologies like carbon capture and storage (CCS), hydrogen, and biofuels. The company has set a goal to reach net-zero Scope 1 and 2 emissions in its Permian Basin unconventional operated assets by 2030, utilizing electrification with renewable power, advanced methane detection, and flaring elimination. 

Operational Efficiency: The report highlights a 10% increase in overall productivity achieved through measures such as energy optimization and the use of digital technologies for asset management. These efficiency improvements are part of a broader effort to reduce the environmental impact of operations while maintaining competitive financial performance. 

Community and Environmental Impact: ExxonMobil has launched various initiatives aimed at community development and environmental conservation, which include programs for education, health, and habitat restoration. The company is also working towards eliminating routine flaring in its Permian Basin operations in line with the World Bank Zero Routine Flaring Initiative, helping to further mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. 

Governance and Compliance: The company continues to advocate for supportive policies that facilitate the development of lower-emission technologies, including CCS and hydrogen. ExxonMobil’s emission-reduction plans are aligned with Paris Agreement pathways, which involve reducing corporate greenhouse gas emissions and integrating lower-carbon energy sources into their operations. 

The report emphasizes ExxonMobil's commitment to integrating emission-reduction strategies, investing in low-carbon technology, enhancing operational processes, and promoting sustainable development as key elements in advancing toward a net-zero future. 

Conclusion 

For the oil and gas industry, ESG is not just a passing trend; it is a strategic imperative. By prioritizing climate change mitigation, health and safety, resource efficiency, ethical governance, and regulatory adaptation, companies can secure their place in a sustainable and responsible energy future. 

At Ecodrisil, we believe that integrating sustainable practices can open doors to new opportunities as companies navigate the energy transition. ESG helps address key issues, ensures compliance with regulations, and enhances overall performance. To simplify ESG reporting and manage risks effectively, oil and gas companies can leverage platforms like Ecodrisil ESG Xpress for streamlined reporting and compliance. Embracing ESG is not just the right choice—it’s essential for long-term success. Together, we can build a more sustainable and resilient energy sector. 

[h1p3rn0v4]

“Pensar que deberíamos enviar este gas a otros países como una solución al cambio climático es sencillamente un error. Es un lavado de imagen por parte de las compañías de petróleo y gas que han subestimado gravemente las emisiones de este tipo de energía”.

La perforación, el traslado, el enfriamiento y el envío de gas de un país a otro consumen tanta energía que la quema final de gas en los hogares y las empresas de las personas solo representa alrededor de un tercio de las emisiones totales de este proceso, según la investigación.

[rjzimmerman]

What Trump promised oil CEOs as he asked them to steer $1 billion to his campaign. (Washington Post)

As Donald Trump sat with some of the country’s top oil executives at his Mar-a-Lago Club last month, one executive complained about how they continued to face burdensome environmental regulations despite spending $400 million to lobby the Biden administration in the last year.

Trump’s response stunned several of the executives in the room overlooking the ocean: You all are wealthy enough, he said, that you should raise $1 billion to return me to the White House. At the dinner, he vowed to immediately reverse dozens of President Biden’s environmental rules and policies and stop new ones from being enacted, according to people with knowledge of the meeting, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to describe a private conversation.

Giving $1 billion would be a ��deal,” Trump said, because of the taxation and regulation they would avoid thanks to him, according to the people.

Trump’s remarkably blunt and transactional pitch reveals howthe former president is targetingthe oil industry to finance his reelection bid. At the same time, he has turned to the industryto help shape his environmental agenda for a second term, including the rollbacks of some of Biden’s signature achievements on clean energy and electric vehicles.

The roughly two dozen executives invited included Mike Sabel, the CEO and founder of Venture Global, and Jack Fusco, the CEO of Cheniere Energy, whose proposed projects would directly benefit from lifting the pause on new LNG exports. Other attendees came from companies including Chevron, Continental Resources, Exxon and Occidental Petroleum, according to an attendance list obtained by The Post.

Despite Trump’s huge fundraising ask, oil donors and their allies have yet to donate hundreds of millions to his campaign. They havecontributed more than $6.4 million to Trump’s joint fundraising committee in the first three months of this year, according to an analysis by the advocacy group Climate Power. Oil billionaire Harold Hamm and others are scheduling a fundraiser for Trump later this year, advisers said, where they expect large checks to flow to his bid to return to office.

One person involved in the industry said many oil executives wanted Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis or another Republican to challenge Biden. But now that Trump is the nominee, this person said, they are going to embrace his policies and give.

[imperialchem]

Unveiling the Latest Innovations:  What is New in Rig Wash Additive Technology

In the dynamic and ever-evolving oil and gas industry, maintaining clean and efficient drilling operations is paramount.  One of the critical aspects of this process is the use of specialized additives to ensure the integrity and cleanliness of drilling equipment.  As a leading pipe free agent additive manufacturer in India, Imperial Oilfield Chemicals Pvt. Ltd. is at the forefront of developing innovative solutions that enhance the performance and reliability of drilling operations.  This blog explores the latest advancements in rig wash additive technology and their impact on the industry.

The Importance of Rig Wash Additives

Rig wash additives play a crucial role in the maintenance of drilling rigs and associated equipment.  These chemicals are designed to remove contaminants such as oil, grease, and drilling mud from surfaces, ensuring that the equipment operates efficiently and safely.  By preventing the build-up of residues, rig wash additives help to extend the lifespan of equipment, reduce maintenance costs, and minimize downtime.

Key Benefits of Rig Wash Additives:

Enhanced Equipment Performance:  Clean equipment operates more efficiently, leading to improved overall performance.

Reduced Maintenance Costs:  Regular cleaning with effective additives reduces the need for frequent repairs and maintenance.

Safety:  Clean rigs and equipment help prevent accidents and ensure a safer working environment.

Environmental Compliance:  High-quality rig wash additives help in adhering to environmental regulations by ensuring proper disposal of contaminants.

Innovations in Rig Wash Additive Technology

The oilfield chemicals industry is constantly advancing, with new technologies and formulations emerging to address the specific needs of modern drilling operations.  As a leading rig wash additive manufacturer in India, Imperial Oilfield Chemicals Pvt. Ltd. is committed to staying at the cutting edge of these innovations.  Here are some of the latest developments in rig wash additive technology:

Environmentally Friendly Formulations

With increasing environmental regulations and the industry's shift towards sustainable practices, there is a growing demand for environmentally friendly rig wash additives.  Manufacturers are now focusing on developing biodegradable and non-toxic formulations that effectively clean equipment without harming the environment.

Features of Eco-Friendly Rig Wash Additives:

Biodegradable Ingredients:  Break down naturally without leaving harmful residues.

Non-Toxic:  Safe for use around personnel and wildlife.

Low VOCs:  Reduced volatile organic compounds to minimize air pollution.

Enhanced Cleaning Efficiency

The efficiency of rig wash additives is critical to their performance.  Recent advancements have led to the development of high-performance additives that offer superior cleaning capabilities.  These formulations are designed to penetrate and remove even the most stubborn contaminants, ensuring that equipment remains in optimal condition.

Key Characteristics:

High Penetration:  Ability to reach and clean hard-to-access areas.

Superior Solvency:  Effectively dissolves oil, grease, and other residues.

Quick Action:  Reduces cleaning time, enhancing operational efficiency.

Multi-Purpose Additives

To simplify the maintenance process and reduce costs, there is a trend towards multi-purpose rig wash additives.  These versatile formulations can be used for various cleaning applications, from washing rigs to cleaning pipelines and casings.

Advantages of Multi-Purpose Additives:

Cost-Effective:  Reduces the need for multiple products.

Simplified Logistics:  Easier inventory management and storage.

Consistent Performance:  Ensures uniform cleaning results across different applications.

Specialized Additives for Specific Applications

Recognizing that different components of drilling operations may require unique cleaning solutions, manufacturers are developing specialized additives tailored to specific applications.  For example, a casing wash additive manufacturer in India might produce formulations specifically designed to clean and protect casing pipes, ensuring their longevity and performance.

Examples of Specialized Additives:

Casing Wash Additives:  Formulated to clean and protect casing pipes from corrosion and build-up.

Pipe Free Agent Additives:  Designed to prevent the formation of hydrates and other blockages in pipelines.

Rig Wash Additives:  Targeted formulations for cleaning drilling rigs and related equipment.

Imperial Oilfield Chemicals Pvt. Ltd.:  Leading the Way

As a premier pipe free agent additive manufacturer in India, Imperial Oilfield Chemicals Pvt. Ltd. is dedicated to innovation and excellence.  Our range of rig wash additives is formulated to meet the highest standards of performance and safety, ensuring that our clients can maintain efficient and reliable operations.

Our Product Range:

Rig Wash Additives

Our rig wash additives are designed to remove a wide range of contaminants, from oil and grease to drilling mud.  They are formulated to provide thorough cleaning while being safe for both equipment and the environment.

Casing Wash Additives

Our casing wash additives are specifically designed to clean casing pipes, preventing corrosion and build-up that can compromise the integrity of the pipes.  These additives are essential for maintaining the safety and efficiency of drilling operations.

Pipe Free Agent Additives

Our pipe free agent additives prevent the formation of hydrates and other blockages in pipelines, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted flow.  These additives are critical for maintaining the efficiency and reliability of pipeline operations.

Case Study:  Successful Implementation of Rig Wash Additives

To illustrate the impact of our innovative rig wash additives, let's consider a case study involving a major drilling operation in India.  The client faced significant challenges with equipment contamination, leading to frequent maintenance and downtime.

The Challenge:

Frequent Downtime:  Equipment contamination caused frequent shutdowns for cleaning and maintenance.

High Maintenance Costs:  Regular repairs and part replacements due to build-up and corrosion.

Environmental Concerns:  Need for environmentally friendly cleaning solutions.

The Solution:

Imperial Oilfield Chemicals Pvt. Ltd. provided a comprehensive solution with our range of rig wash and casing wash additives.  The implementation involved:

Regular Cleaning Schedule:  Establishing a routine cleaning schedule using our high-performance additives.

Training and Support:  Providing training to the client's staff on the proper use of the additives and best cleaning practices.

Environmental Compliance:  Ensuring that the products used were environmentally friendly and compliant with local regulations.

The Results:

Reduced Downtime:  The client experienced a significant reduction in equipment downtime, leading to uninterrupted operations.

Lower Maintenance Costs:  The effective cleaning reduced the need for frequent repairs and part replacements, resulting in cost savings.

Enhanced Safety and Compliance:  The use of eco-friendly additives ensured a safer working environment and compliance with environmental regulations.

Future Trends in Rig Wash Additive Technology

The future of rig wash additive technology looks promising, with ongoing research and development aimed at addressing the evolving needs of the oil and gas industry.  Here are some trends to watch:

Smart Additives

The integration of smart technologies into rig wash additives is an exciting development.  These additives can be designed to change their properties in response to specific conditions, enhancing their effectiveness and efficiency.

Nano-Technology

Nano-technology is set to revolutionize rig wash additives by enabling the development of formulations with enhanced penetration and cleaning capabilities.  Nano-particles can reach and clean areas that traditional additives cannot, ensuring thorough cleaning.

Sustainability Focus

As environmental concerns continue to grow, there will be an increased focus on developing sustainable rig wash additives.  This includes not only biodegradable and non-toxic formulations but also products that require less water and energy for their application.

Conclusion

The advancements in rig wash additive technology are transforming the oil and gas industry, making drilling operations more efficient, safe, and environmentally friendly.  As a leading rig wash additive manufacturer in India, Imperial Oilfield Chemicals Pvt. Ltd. is proud to be at the forefront of these innovations.  Our commitment to quality, performance, and sustainability ensures that our clients receive the best possible solutions for their cleaning needs.

Whether you are looking for a pipe free agent additive manufacturer in India or a casing wash additive manufacturer in India, Imperial Oilfield Chemicals Pvt. Ltd. has the expertise and products to meet your requirements.  Stay ahead of the curve with our innovative rig wash additives and experience the difference they can make in your operations.

[nando161mando]

On Monday, September 23, a number of workers working at sites 1 and 2 of Pars Oil and Gas Company in Kangan and Asalouye regions, Fajre-Jam Gas Refining Company and Iranian Offshore Oil Company in Lavan operational area, in protest gatherings demanding the handling of their demands.

[poojagblog-blog]

Delray Beach, FL, Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global Offshore Support Vessel Market size is expected to grow from USD 25.6 billion in 2024 to USD 36.3 billion by 2029, at a CAGR of 7.2% according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets™. An offshore support vessel (OSV) is specially designed to support offshore exploration, drilling, production, and construction activities in the oil & gas industry. These vessels provide a range of services, such as transportation of personnel, equipment and supplies, maintenance and repair, and oil spill response. OSVs are also used for specialized tasks such as platform installation, decommissioning, seismic surveying, providing firefighting, towing, and positioning of drilling rigs and other offshore structures, and subsea construction. These vessels are equipped with dynamic positioning systems to maintain their position in rough seas and are built to withstand harsh offshore conditions. Different types of offshore support vessels are used in offshore oil & gas and offshore wind applications. OSVs play a crucial role in offshore oil & gas and offshore wind farms by enabling safe and efficient operations.

[head-post]

Oil prices rise with US interest rate cut expectations

Oil prices rose slightly in early trading on Monday on expectations of a US interest rate cut this week. However, growth was limited by weak economic data from China and lingering demand concerns.

International benchmark Brent crude rose 0.74 percent to $72.14 a barrel at 11.35 a.m. local time (0835 GMT), up from the previous session’s close of $71.61.

US benchmark West Texas Intermediate (WTI) rose 0.93% to $68.38 a barrel after closing at $67.75 in the previous session.

Markets are set for an interest rate cut by the US Federal Reserve following its meeting scheduled for Wednesday, which would be the first rate cut since 2020.

The bank is likely to start the easing cycle, but market uncertainty remains over how aggressive the rate cut will be.

While investors have raised their odds of an aggressive 50 basis point rate cut, a 25 basis point cut remains on the table. Lower interest rates typically reduce borrowing costs, which fuels expectations of increased economic activity and oil demand.

However, the rise in oil prices was tempered by rising demand in the market following the release of data from China. China’s economic data released over the weekend pointed to weakness in the economy of the world’s largest oil importer, adding to doubts about oil demand.

The country’s industrial production in August fell short of expectations, unemployment rose and house prices fell further.

Read more HERE