Exclusive-Gunvor weighs US energy push that could bolster Washington ties, sources say

Core Viewpoint - Gunvor is actively seeking to invest in U.S. oil and gas assets to improve relations with the Trump administration following the withdrawal of its bid for Lukoil's foreign assets due to U.S. Treasury opposition [1][2]. Group 1: Investment Strategy - Gunvor's Americas unit is exploring backing newly formed private oil and gas companies and providing financial support to existing producers for expansion [2]. - The company has been investing in U.S. trading and energy infrastructure since 2012, with a portfolio valued at over $4 billion [3]. Group 2: Focus on Natural Gas - Potential investments by Gunvor are expected to concentrate more on natural gas rather than oil [4]. - Gunvor was involved in bidding for assets owned by Baytex Energy in the Eagle Ford shale basin, providing a financial guarantee for a bid by Percussion Petroleum [4][5]. Group 3: Recent Developments - Baytex Energy announced the sale of its Eagle Ford assets for $2.31 billion, but Percussion Petroleum's bid, backed by Gunvor, was unsuccessful [5].