Stock price when the opinion was issued
Lately they've had success in exploration in Germany, but near-term capex to exploit that is questionable. Are hard hit, now trading at half their book value. Are paying a near-6% dividend. He's held on. He may use VET as a source of funds, but otherwise won't sell it.
Would prefer TOU over VET. The challenge is the stressed balance sheet for these energy providers. VET has some of the worst price momentum, value, volatility and earnings profile in terms of current return on equity. They can move quickly if they look like they will survive. If you are looking for a huge amount of leverage and upside for a recovery, you could own VET but TOU is the more stable choice.