Private equity firms are stepping up to invest in the oil and gas sector , according to a survey by Ernst & Young , as they sense an opportunity after low crude prices eroded the industries ' profitability . Private equity firms are again looking to invest in the oil and gas sector, with 25% of firm executives indicating they plan to invest in the sector in the next six months and 45% expecting capital will be invested in the first half of 2017, said an Ernst & Young global survey of executives at 100 private equity firms active in the sector, released Tuesday. The survey shows 5 % will be invested in the next three months , 25 % in the next six months and 45 % in the first half of 2017 . It also reveals that , globally , private equity firms have nearly $ 5000 sitting on the sidelines waiting for an opportunity to scoop up companies in the energy sector .
Private equity firms are stepping up to invest in the oil and gas sector , according to a survey by Ernst & Young , as they sense an opportunity after low crude prices eroded the industries ' profitability . The survey shows 5 % will be invested in the next three months , 25 % in the next six months and 45 % in the first half of 2017 . It also reveals that , globally , private equity firms have nearly $ 5000 sitting on the sidelines waiting for an opportunity to scoop up companies in the energy sector .