Oil and gas companies are notoriously unpredictable investments. However, as three Aim-listed oil and gas companies reported interim losses on Friday, one predictable outcome in current markets is that many investors are likely to steer clear.

Regal Petroleum, Ramco Energy and Petrel Resources reported pre-tax losses of $2.9m (£1.6m), £1.2m and €400,000 (£320,000), respectively.