BP Stock Jumps as Report Says Shell in Talks to Buy Energy Rival - Barron's
1. BP shares rose 2% after news of Shell's potential acquisition talks. 2. Shell's spokeswoman denied active acquisition discussions, calling it market speculation. 3. BP's stock performance has lagged behind Shell's significant gains in recent years. 4. Activist investors see BP as a possible takeover target due to weak performance. 5. Both companies' London base may reduce regulatory obstacles for any merger.