Petroleum Business Review

Abstract The research on the Markowitz model and optimization of its portfolio using a variety of evaluation indicators and metaheuristic-algorithms has always been the focus of attention of accounting and finance researchers. The results of studies carried out by various types of optimization method are different in the Markowitz modified models. The purpose of this study is to measure the optimal portfolio and its corresponding return with respect to the portfolio in the traditional Markowitz model as well as comparing the position of the refining and petrochemical companies versus stock market outperformers through integrating the operational criteria and the new indicators of liquidity by using the genetic algorithm in the Markowitz model. Therefore, financial data related to the research variables of 35 cases of refinery and petrochemical companies listed on Tehran Stock Exchange (TSE) from 2012 to 2016 fiscal years were extracted from Rahavard Novin database software and simulated by the genetic algorithm. The results show that returns on the stock portfolios optimized using the genetic algorithm without considering the liquidity limitations and filters are significantly and positively different from the returns on the stock portfolios optimized with regarding the liquidity limitations and filters. Furthermore, the application of liquidity limitations and filters to the formation of the optimal stock portfolios leads to a conservative increase in the choice of stocks (portfolio formation), which results in a reduction in the risk and return of investment in such portfolios.

Abstract Regarding the contingency theory, the purpose of this research is to identify factors affecting the development of accounting and financial [management] procedures (AFP) for joint operating agreements in Iran’s oil and gas industry. To this end, at first, some partial factors were identified through a deep study of theoretical foundations. Subsequently, in order to identify environmental factors, a semi-structured interview was conducted with accounting and finance experts in oil and gas exploration and production companies whose competences were approved by the Ministry of Petroleum. Using the theoretical framework and the interview results, a questionnaire was set up and distributed in a wider range in order to add potentials and eliminate, modify, and finally rank the raised factors. The results showed that changes in laws and regulations, use of services in Iran’s oil and gas industry, changes in business practices, information technologies, the structure of the principal contract,  and conflicts among operational parties are the most important factors that should be taken into account in the formulation and development of AFP’s for these contracts in Iran’s oil and gas industry, and, in this regard, some suggestions are provided.