Canada PM in China to discuss oil and energy issues

The Canadian Prime Minister, Stephen Harper, is visiting China for talks that will focus on oil sales, energy and other economic ties.

Gas prices could spike 60 cents or more by May

Get ready for another round of pain at the pump: $4 (or higher) gasoline.After rising 19 cents a gallon in the past four weeks, regular unleaded gasoline now averages $3.48 a gallon, vs. $3.12 a year ago and $2.67 in February 2010.

Oil near $97 amid signs US economy improving

SINGAPORE (AP) — Oil prices fell slightly to near $97 a barrel Monday in Asia despite signs U.S. economic growth is improving.

Three States to Require Insurers to Disclose Climate-Change Response Plans

Insurance commissioners in California, New York and Washington State will require that companies disclose how they intend to respond to the risks their businesses and customers face from increasingly severe storms and wildfires, rising sea levels and other consequences of climate change, California’s commissioner said Wednesday.

Shell profits up 54% on firm oil prices

Concerns about corporate profiteering in the energy sector are likely to be reignited again on Thursday with Shell reporting a 54% increase in annual earnings to $28.6bn (£18bn) - £2.2m an hour.

With Approval, Malaysia Refinery Expects to Open This Year

HONG KONG — Malaysian regulators granted an initial operating license late Wednesday for a giant rare earth metals refinery that has been at the center of a dispute over radioactive waste management.

Exxon profits rise on oil prices

The the world's largest oil company, Exxon Mobil, has seen its profits rise due to the higher oil price, despite producing less oil.