Energy

Hercules Offshore Gets a Boost

Services and drilling company Hercules Offshore Inc. (NASDAQ: HERO) recently received some positive comments from two analysts, including an upgrade to Outperform today from Stephens. The company, mostly a shallow-water driller, also published its fleet status report today, showing a jump in average contract days for domestic U.S. from 174 in October to 232 in November.

Although much smaller than competitors like Seadrill Ltd. (NYSE: SDRL), Transocean Ltd. (NYSE: RIG), Ensco PLC (NYSE: ESV), Diamond Offshore Drilling Inc. (NYSE: DO) and Noble Corp. (NYSE: NE), Hercules is in a solid position to take advantage of new opportunities in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico. The company has the added advantage of not having any Gulf contracts with BP PLC (NYSE: BP), which may be unable to bid for new leases as a result of yesterday’s suspension of the company from entering into new federal contracts.

Shares are up about 43% in the past 12 months and are trading up more than 6% today, at $4.98 in a 52-week range of $2.91 to $5.57.

Paul Ausick

Travel Cards Are Getting Too Good To Ignore

Credit card companies are pulling out all the stops, with the issuers are offering insane travel rewards and perks.

We’re talking huge sign-up bonuses, points on every purchase, and benefits like lounge access, travel credits, and free hotel nights. For travelers, these rewards can add up to thousands of dollars in flights, upgrades, and luxury experiences every year.

It’s like getting paid to travel — and it’s available to qualified borrowers who know where to look.

We’ve rounded up some of the best travel credit cards on the market. Click here to see the list. Don’t miss these offers — they won’t be this good forever.

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