The Year in Preview

Oil and Gas: The half-price sale on crude oil is expected to continue, as overproduction by OPEC members slops into depressed demand because of Asia’s economic problems. Gasoline prices should remain low. The Federal Trade Commission will scrutinize the proposed merger of Exxon and Mobil, as well as joint ventures in refining and marketing. Still, look for more mergers, asset sales and layoffs as oil companies search for ways to cut costs.