For the period, profit attributable to equity holders totaled RUB313.18 billion, down 8.31 billion, or 3% compared to H1 2006. Net sales of natural gas increased by RUB36.41 billion, or 5%, to RUB758.29 billion in the six months ended June 30, 2007, compared to the same period in 2006. The increase was primarily due to higher domestic gas prices.
The company reported operating expenses of RUB792.21 billion for the fist half of 2007, a 15% increase compared to RUB686.42 billion in the same period of 2006. Purchased oil and gas accounted for the major part or 54% of the increase in operating expenses.
In H1, the group acquired a 50% plus one share of Sakhalin Energy Investment Company for RUB192.33 billion. In addition, the group obtained a controlling interest in Mosenergo.
