Anadarko's consistent growth makes it ripe for takeover

The US independent continues to get it right with a mix of reliable onshore assets and a foothold in potentially prolific offshore plays

There's nothing like setting high expectations – and Anadarko Petroleum certainly did that in February when chief executive Al Walker said he expects 2013 to be one of the best years in the company’s history. Anadarko had a successful 2012 – though analysts say that has to be put in perspective, given that 2010 and 2011 were difficult, as Anadarko, a co-owner with BP of the Macondo well, struggled with the fall-out from the blow-out and spill at the Gulf of Mexico well. In 2012, Anadarko posted a record production growth rate of 8% over 2011 levels while adding reserves of 434 million barrels of oil equivalent (boe), replacing 162% of its current production. Proved reserves at year-end were