Estimates for Commodity prices

Analysts have to estimate price decks in order to reach the earnings estimates the street craves so dearly. Below are the average estimates for roughly 15 analysts that we have been able to track down.  Notice that they are lower than the futures as seen on the NYMEX.  Analysts are notoriously conservative and the estimates are evidence.   The reason for this posting is to track changes.  We will revisit the estimates each month to see how the thinking has changed.   We suggest that if you are an estimate addict you may also follow the changes in EPS that we have been tracking. 

                                    2005             2006                2007                 2008
Crude Oil  $/b            $50.00           $46.50             $43.00             $41.00

Natural Gas $/Mcf       $6.65             $6.50              $6.00                $5.80