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    Ahead of the Bell: National Oilwell Varco

    NEW YORK (AP) — As the search for new sources of oil grows, companies that make drilling equipment like National-Oilwell Varco are going see demand for their services growing, an Argus Research analyst said Wednesday

    Analyst Phil Weiss increased his 2012 profit estimate and price target for the Houston company.

    Weiss said oil drillers around the world are looking to upgrade their rig fleets to make them more attractive to energy companies. If they can offer newer, more efficient and dependable rigs, they usually can negotiate higher contract rates for their work.

    "On average, many existing rigs have exceeded their projected life expectancy and require upgrading or replacement. At the same time, the overall demand for rigs, particularly those capable of either horizontal or deepwater drilling, should continue to grow," Weiss said.

    This likely means increased business for National-Oilwell Varco Inc., which is one of the world's largest rig equipment manufacturers, Weiss said. He raised the company's price target to $96 from $82 per share and increased his 2012 earnings forecast for the company to $6 from $5.70 per share.

    Earlier this month, the company reported a 30-percent jump in fourth-quarter profits thanks to a move by rig companies to upgrade their fleets. Company shares have increased 21 percent since the beginning of the year. They rose by 39 cents to $82.50 in premarket trading.

     

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