MIDAS VERDICT:

BP and Shell have a delicate path to tread. They have to convince governments and eco-warriors that they are serious about becoming green. They have to navigate choppy oil and gas markets. They have to defend themselves when energy prices – and their profits – soar. And they have to reward shareholders for sticking with them. Amid all these moving parts, it can be hard to assess whether these stocks offer value but today, the investment case seems pretty clear. BP, at £4.17 and Shell, at £20.39, should deliver gains for shareholders. Both have set out their stall for the future. Both provide a hedge against inflation and buying the shares can offset some of those painful increases in household energy prices.