Shell PLC, one of the world’s largest oil and gas companies, has predicted a loss of $1.2 billion for the first quarter of 2021. This comes as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent decrease in demand for oil and gas.
The company’s CEO, Ben van Beurden, stated that the loss was due to “significant market volatility” and “challenging trading conditions.” He also noted that the company’s upstream business, which includes exploration and production, was particularly affected by the pandemic.
Shell’s Q1 loss is a stark contrast to the $2.9 billion profit the company made in the same period last year. The company’s revenue is also expected to be significantly lower than last year’s figure of $60 billion.
Despite the challenging conditions, Shell remains committed to its long-term strategy of transitioning to a low-carbon future. The company has set a target of becoming a net-zero emissions energy business by 2050, and has already made significant investments in renewable energy and electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
Shell’s Q1 loss is a reminder of the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global economy, and the need for companies to adapt to changing market conditions. As the world continues to grapple with the pandemic, it is likely that we will see further volatility in the energy sector and other industries. However, companies like Shell that are committed to sustainability and long-term planning are well-positioned to weather these challenges and emerge stronger in the years to come.
