Santos takeover talk gives stock 8.1pc boost on higher volume SANTOS takeover talk is on the agenda again, with the oil and gas companys stock price up 8.1 per cent in the past week on heavier than normal volume. The share price rise has sparked talk that an offshore major like Chevron or Exxon may be about to launch a deal. Santos is not unaccustomed to takeover rumours, given its 74 per cent stake in Cooper Basin and coal seam gas assets but traders say one day it will happen. The stock was at 13.98 in early afternoon trade, up from $11.10 a share a week ago, on average daily volume of over 5.3 million shares, up from its average daily volume of 3.8 million shares. The company is not aware of anything which may have prompted the spike in its stock price.