The stock markets registered declines in July due to geopolitical tensions. Crude oil prices also fell significantly due to oversupply concerns. The utility sector declined by 1.2% due to concerns about EU sanctions against Russia impacting integrated operators. Snam shares closed July up 0.2%, outperforming the utility sector and Italian market, as expectations improved for its upcoming 1H 2014 results announcement. Snam reported a 2.4% increase in EBIT and 21.4% rise in net profit for 1H 2014 due to operating efficiencies and lower debt costs.