US Energy Sector -- In the US , markets were reacting to Exxon Mobil Corp. ' s announcement of its intention to acquire XTO Energy Inc for $ 31 bln . The acquisition is a bet that the demand for natural gas will grow based on US emissions restrictions and overall growth in energy demand . Announcement of the deal has sent the stock prickes of independent natural gas explorers and producers higher on speculation that other acquisitions will take place in that sector . NYMEX natural gas futures are also seen higher today . Some are hoping that the deal is the shot in the arm that is needed to revive M & A activity more broadly .