OIL prices declined but the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (Opec) refused to cut its production. This contributed to further price falls. And the rout dealt further blows to stocks in the oil, gas and related sectors, including those listed on the Singapore Exchange.

This is the script of the unfolding drama of oil price decline and its immediate impact on the offshore and marine (O&M) sector in Singapore. And suggestions by sector analysts and commentators that not all offshore and marine (O&M) companies would bear the brunt of this oil rout had to some extent been ignored as investors reduced their exposure to the industry. Analysts who are still upbeat are saying that the current low share prices offer an opportunity for bargain-hunting.

What do investors look out for though? How does one know which of the O&M companies will provide attractive returns beyond the short-term? There are five key factors that investors could look at to help them make more astute decisions.