Modern living is driven by oil, from the gasoline that propels our cars to the electricity that powers our homes to the military that protects our freedom. Throughout the twentieth century, a relatively uninterrupted supply of oil has fueled our nation's unparalleled growth.

Yet steadily increasing demand from the United States, as well as from rapidly developing nations such as China and India, has begun to seriously strain the world's oil reserves. This representsthe onset of a challenging new economic, philosophical, and political world—and an unprecedented opportunity for in-the-know investors.

Black Gold argues that oil prices are primed for an "überspike" and examines how institutional and individual investors can reap substantial rewards from this volatile and uncertain environment. Written by veteran oil analyst and journalist George Orwel, this insightful and prescient book provides you with:

• Analysis of alternative fuel sources, from solar and nuclear energy to wind and even wood, and the pluses, minuses, and potential investment value of each
• Insights from dozens of major figures, from energy industry executives and observers to seasoned investing pros
• An insider's look at Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern countries, discussing how what they say they can produce—versus what they actually can produce—will rock future markets
• Detailed charts and graphs on why the best time to invest in oil-related investments is NOW—and proven strategies for uncovering the most profitable opportunities
• Actual investments, from ETFs and energy futures to hedge funds and oil-related companies, that stand poised to provide you with better-than-average returns over both the short- and long-term

Oil is the dominant energy source fueling the modern economy. When you combine that knowledge with the fact that oil is a nonre-?newable resource that will be exhausted at some indeterminate future time, it is easy to see how its value to you as an investor cannot be overstated.

Black Gold views this opportunity from every angle. Whether you are an oil industry executive looking for new perspectives or an investor searching for new ideas to enhance your portfolio's performance, this dramatic and valuable book will change the way you view today's evolving energy marketplace—and your role as an investor in that marketplace.

"The book has useful points to make…" (Lloyd's List, August 2006)

Praise for BLACK GOLD

"An interesting and impressive book on an important subject."

—Anya Schiffrin

Director of Journalism Programs at the Initiative for Policy Dialogue at Columbia University

"There has been no hotter market than oil—the commodity and the industry—and this book provides much useful information on the current and future situation.

A cogent analysis, it sheds much light on some of the major issues facing the industry—and investors—today.

A good read from a much-practiced journalist."

—Michael C. Lynch President, Strategic Energy and Economic Research Inc.

"Black Gold lays out in easy-to-read language the peak oil argument and outlines why the debate over peak oil is becoming so intense. Orwel explains why oil is, indeed, black gold and highlights the investment implications of peak oil."

—Matt Simmons

Bestselling author of Twilight in the Desert: The Coming Saudi Oil Shock and the World Economy

Analyze how the falling production and rising demand of oil has enabled savvy companies and investment banks to cash in with Black Gold. You'll find investment suggestions — from ETFs and energy futures to hedge funds — that will allow you to reap substantial profits from current and future situations as well as short human-interest stories that illustrate every issue discussed. You'll also find a timeframe for the peak of oil production — one that is more realistic and gaining acceptance with both scientists and economists. Drawing on historical background, current issues, and expectations of the energy road ahead, Black Goldoffers information you'll appreciate and understand so you can make the most of a market poised to grow exponentially in the years ahead.

Acknowledgements.

Introduction.

PART I: THE END OF OIL.

Chapter 1. The End of an Era?

Chapter 2. Consequences of Oil Peak.

Chapter 3. Alternative Fuels.

PART II: THE MIDDLE EAST PROBLEM.

Chapter 4. Is the Saudi Oil Supply Adequate?.

Chapter 5. Iraqi Oil Supply and the Battle of Baghdad.

 PART III: THE OIL BOOM.

Chapter 6. Why and How Oil Prices Soared.

Chapter 7. Bumper Harvest for Oil Majors. 

Chapter 8. The New Frontier in Oil Investments.

Fuel Facts.

Some Questions to Test Your Energy Knowledge.

Notes.

Index.