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Marathon Oil

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A look at the moves made by Viking Fund management in the third quarter, including the exits and new stakes and fund&#39;s largest positions at the end of Q3.

Viking Fund Management Sells Big Oil Stocks In Q3, Cuts Tesla Position In Half, Adds To Largest Position Broadcom

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Crude oil prices plummeted due to targeted Israeli airstrikes in Iran, but avoided oil infrastructure. U.S. energy stocks also saw sharp losses.

Crude Oil Faces Steepest One-Day Drop In Over Two Years, Energy Stocks Plunge: Prices &#39;Are Likely To Remain Under Pressure,&#39; Analyst Says

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Shares of energy and oil stocks are trading higher amid a rise in the price of oil, which gained on Russia-Ukraine tensions and a Norway oilfield shutdown.

Ratings for Marathon Oil (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRO#NYSE">MRO</a>) were provided by 10 analysts in the past three months, showcasing a mix of bullish and bearish perspectives.
Summarizing their recent assessments, the table below illustrates the evolving sentiments in the past 30 days and compares them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th align="right">Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Indifferent</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th align="right">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">3</td>
<td align="right">6</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">4</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Analysts have recently evaluated Marathon Oil and provided 12-month price targets. The average target is $30.5, accompanied by a high estimate of $37.00 and a low estimate of $27.00. Observing a downward trend, the current average is 7.18% lower than the prior average price target of $32.86. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1731956497_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Interpreting Analyst Ratings: A Closer Look</h2>
A comprehensive examination of how financial experts perceive Marathon Oil is derived from recent analyst actions. The following is a detailed summary of key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Mark Lear</td>
<td>Piper Sandler</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$34.00</td>
<td>$37.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Paul Cheng</td>
<td>Scotiabank</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Sector Perform</td>
<td>$28.00</td>
<td>$27.61</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Betty Jiang</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$34.00</td>
<td>$35.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Roger Read</td>
<td>Wells Fargo</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$27.00</td>
<td>$29.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Neal Dingmann</td>
<td>Truist Securities</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$27.00</td>
<td>$35.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Josh Silverstein</td>
<td>UBS</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$28.00</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nitin Kumar</td>
<td>Mizuho</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$32.00</td>
<td>$34.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arun Jayaram</td>
<td>JP Morgan</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$33.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Scott Gruber</td>
<td>Citigroup</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$28.00</td>
<td>$29.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Biju Perincheril</td>
<td>Susquehanna</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Positive</td>
<td>$37.00</td>
<td>$39.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Analysts frequently update their recommendations based on evolving market conditions and company performance. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Marathon Oil. This information provides a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Unveiling insights, analysts deliver qualitative insights into stock performance, from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey expectations for the relative performance of Marathon Oil compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Delving into movements, analysts provide estimates for the future value of Marathon Oil's stock. This analysis reveals shifts in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
Navigating through these analyst evaluations alongside other financial indicators can contribute to a holistic understanding of Marathon Oil's market standing. Stay informed and make data-driven decisions with our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MRO/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Marathon Oil analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Get to Know Marathon Oil Better</h2>
Marathon is an independent exploration and production company primarily focusing on unconventional resources in the United States. At the end of 2023, the company reported net proved reserves of 1.1 billion barrels of oil equivalent. Net production averaged 405 thousand barrels of oil equivalent per day in 2023 at a ratio of roughly 70% oil and NGLs and 30% natural gas.
<h3>Financial Milestones: Marathon Oil's Journey</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: Positioned below industry benchmarks, the company's market capitalization faces constraints in size. This could be influenced by factors such as growth expectations or operational capacity.
Negative Revenue Trend: Examining Marathon Oil's financials over 3 months reveals challenges. As of 30 September, 2024, the company experienced a decline of approximately -1.69% in revenue growth, reflecting a decrease in top-line earnings. As compared to its peers, the revenue growth lags behind its industry peers. The company achieved a growth rate lower than the average among peers in Energy sector.
Net Margin: The company's net margin is below industry benchmarks, signaling potential difficulties in achieving strong profitability. With a net margin of 16.48%, the company may need to address challenges in effective cost control.
Return on Equity (ROE): Marathon Oil's ROE falls below industry averages, indicating challenges in efficiently using equity capital. With an ROE of 2.54%, the company may face hurdles in generating optimal returns for shareholders.
Return on Assets (ROA): Marathon Oil's ROA falls below industry averages, indicating challenges in efficiently utilizing assets. With an ROA of 1.47%, the company may face hurdles in generating optimal returns from its assets.
Debt Management: The company maintains a balanced debt approach with a debt-to-equity ratio below industry norms, standing at 0.42.
<h2>The Significance of Analyst Ratings Explained</h2>
Benzinga tracks 150 analyst firms and reports on their stock expectations. Analysts typically arrive at their conclusions by predicting how much money a company will make in the future, usually the upcoming five years, and how risky or predictable that company's revenue streams are.
Analysts attend company conference calls and meetings, research company financial statements, and communicate with insiders to publish their ratings on stocks. Analysts typically rate each stock once per quarter or whenever the company has a major update.
Analysts may enhance their evaluations by incorporating forecasts for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue, delivering additional guidance to investors. It is vital to acknowledge that, although experts in stocks and sectors, analysts are human and express their opinions when providing insights.
Which Stocks Are Analysts Recommending Now?
Benzinga Edge gives you instant access to all major analyst upgrades, downgrades, and price targets. Sort by accuracy, upside potential, and more. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=be8be9arja3be22bz21&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here to stay ahead of the market</a>.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Analyst Ratings

Expert Outlook: Marathon Oil Through The Eyes Of 10 Analysts

Piper Sandler analyst Mark Lear maintains Marathon Oil (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRO#NYSE">MRO</a>) with a Overweight and lowers the price target from $37 to $34.

Price Target

Piper Sandler Maintains Overweight on Marathon Oil, Lowers Price Target to $34

A new 13F filing from Viking Fund Management reveals which companies the fund bought and sold in the third quarter, including exiting some oil companies ahead of the 2024 election.
Third Quarter Exits: Viking Fund Management sold out of eight stocks completely in the third quarter, including positions in some of the largest oil companies.
Here are the positions exited, as <a href="https://13f.info/13f/000116906924000080/compare/000116906924000006">reported </a>by 13finfo:
<ul>
<li>Marathon Oil (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRO#NYSE">MRO</a>)</li>
<li>Shell PLC (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHEL#NYSE">SHEL</a>)</li>
<li>SM Energy Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SM#NYSE">SM</a>)</li>
<li>Southern Copper Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SCCO#NYSE">SCCO</a>)</li>
<li>Sociedad Quimica y Minera (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SQM#NYSE">SQM</a>)</li>
<li>Murphy USA (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MUSA#NYSE">MUSA</a>)</li>
<li>Sanofi SA (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SNY#NYSE">SNY</a>)</li>
<li>Cactus Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WHD#NYSE">WHD</a>)</li>
</ul>
Third Quarter New Positions: The following were the new stocks added to the fund in the third quarter, ranked in size by the dollar value at the end of the quarter.
<ul>
<li>Kodiak Gas Services (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KGS#NYSE">KGS</a>)</li>
<li>EQT Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EQT#NYSE">EQT</a>)</li>
<li>HF Sinclair Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DINO#NYSE">DINO</a>)</li>
<li>Weatherford International (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WFRD#NASDAQ">WFRD</a>)</li>
<li>NRG Energy (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NRG#NYSE">NRG</a>)</li>
<li>Vertiv Holdings (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRT#NYSE">VRT</a>)</li>
<li>Chart Industries (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GTLS#NYSE">GTLS</a>)</li>
<li>Vistra Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VST#NYSE">VST</a>)</li>
<li>United Microelectronics (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UMC#NYSE">UMC</a>)</li>
<li>Eversource Energy (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ES#NYSE">ES</a>)</li>
<li>Portland General Electric (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/POR#NYSE">POR</a>)</li>
<li>Restaurant Brands International (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QSR#NYSE">QSR</a>)</li>
<li>Nutrien (NTR.TO – Canada)</li>
</ul>
 Big Moves: The fund made several changes to its existing positions alongside the new positions and exited positions.
Here are the biggest additions in the quarter to existing stakes:
<ul>
<li>Civitas Resources (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CIVI#NYSE">CIVI</a>): +16,900%</li>
<li>Broadcom Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>): +882%</li>
<li>LyondellBassell Industries (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LYB#NYSE">LYB</a>): +400%</li>
<li>Rio Tinto PLC (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIO#NYSE">RIO</a>): +386%</li>
<li>Dow Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DOW#NYSE">DOW</a>): +200%</li>
</ul>
Here are the biggest position cuts during the quarter to existing stakes:
<ul>
<li>Texas Pacific Land (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TPL#NYSE">TPL</a>): -60%</li>
<li>Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>): -50%</li>
<li>Haliburton Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HAL#NYSE">HAL</a>): -40%</li>
<li>ExxonMobil (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XOM#NYSE">XOM</a>): -36%</li>
<li>Ovintiv (OVV.TO – Canada): -33%</li>
</ul>
Why It's Important: At the end of the quarter, these are the fund's largest positions ranked by dollar value and the percentage they make up of the fund:
<ul>
<li>Broadcom: $27.96 million, 4.5%</li>
<li>AbbVie Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ABBV#NYSE">ABBV</a>): $24.88 million, 4.0%</li>
<li>NextEra Energy (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NEE#NYSE">NEE</a>): $22.65 million, 3.7%</li>
<li>Entergy Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ETR#NYSE">ETR</a>): $16.27 million, 2.6%</li>
<li>BlackRock Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLK#NYSE">BLK</a>): $14.24 million, 2.3%</li>
</ul>
The fund added significantly to its position in Broadcom, which remains the largest holding.
The quarter saw the sale of several oil stocks, but the fund opened new positions in several energy names in the quarter.
Photo: Shutterstock

Guidance

Marathon Oil Raises 2024 Total Oil Production Guidance To 192,000 Net Bopd And Oil Equivalent Guidance To 393,000 Net Boed, While Leaving Original Capital Spending Guidance Range Unchanged

Marathon Oil (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRO#NYSE">MRO</a>) reported quarterly earnings of $0.64 per share which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $0.63 by 1.59 percent. This is a 16.88 percent decrease over earnings of $0.77 per share from the same period last year. The company reported quarterly sales of $1.79 billion which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $1.72 billion by 4.39 percent. This is a 1.21 percent decrease over sales of $1.81 billion the same period last year.

Earnings

Earnings Beats

Marathon Oil Q3 2024 Adj EPS $0.64 Beats $0.63 Estimate, Sales $1.79B Beat $1.72B Estimate

CSAN

KLXE

NCSM

NINE

RCON

Shares of oil and gas companies are trading higher After Donald Trump wins the 2024 presidential election.

Marathon Oil (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRO#NYSE">MRO</a>) is gearing up to announce its quarterly earnings on Wednesday, 2024-11-06. Here's a quick overview of what investors should know before the release.
Analysts are estimating that Marathon Oil will report an earnings per share (EPS) of $0.63.
The announcement from Marathon Oil is eagerly anticipated, with investors seeking news of surpassing estimates and favorable guidance for the next quarter.
It's worth noting for new investors that guidance can be a key determinant of stock price movements.
<h3>Earnings Track Record</h3>
The company's EPS missed by $0.08 in the last quarter, leading to a 1.53% increase in the share price on the following day.
Here's a look at Marathon Oil's past performance and the resulting price change:

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Quarter</th>
<th>Q2 2024</th>
<th>Q1 2024</th>
<th>Q4 2023</th>
<th>Q3 2023</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>EPS Estimate</td>
<td>0.71</td>
<td>0.56</td>
<td>0.63</td>
<td>0.71</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>EPS Actual</td>
<td>0.63</td>
<td>0.55</td>
<td>0.69</td>
<td>0.77</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Price Change %</td>
<td>2.0%</td>
<td>-0.0%</td>
<td>1.0%</td>
<td>3.0%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1730822584_0.png" alt="eps graph" />
<h3>Marathon Oil Share Price Analysis</h3>
Shares of Marathon Oil were trading at $27.51 as of November 04. Over the last 52-week period, shares are up 11.46%. Given that these returns are generally positive, long-term shareholders are likely bullish going into this earnings release. 
<h3>Analysts' Take on Marathon Oil</h3>
Understanding market sentiments and expectations within the industry is crucial for investors. This analysis delves into the latest insights on Marathon Oil.
A total of 12 analyst ratings have been received for Marathon Oil, with the consensus rating being Neutral. The average one-year price target stands at $30.47, suggesting a potential 10.76% upside.
<h3>Analyzing Analyst Ratings Among Peers</h3>
The analysis below examines the analyst ratings and average 1-year price targets of Coterra Energy, Expand Energy and Ovintiv, three significant industry players, providing valuable insights into their relative performance expectations and market positioning.
<ul>
<li>Coterra Energy is maintaining an Outperform status according to analysts, with an average 1-year price target of $30.86, indicating a potential 12.18% upside.</li>
<li>Expand Energy is maintaining an Neutral status according to analysts, with an average 1-year price target of $93.4, indicating a potential 239.51% upside.</li>
<li>The prevailing sentiment among analysts is an Buy trajectory for Ovintiv, with an average 1-year price target of $52.89, implying a potential 92.26% upside.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Peer Analysis Summary</h3>
In the peer analysis summary, key metrics for Coterra Energy, Expand Energy and Ovintiv are highlighted, providing an understanding of their respective standings within the industry and offering insights into their market positions and comparative performance.

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Company</th>
<th>Consensus</th>
<th>Revenue Growth</th>
<th>Gross Profit</th>
<th>Return on Equity</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Marathon Oil</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>12.26%</td>
<td>$698M</td>
<td>3.12%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Coterra Energy</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>0.22%</td>
<td>$476M</td>
<td>1.93%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Expand Energy</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>-57.28%</td>
<td>$98M</td>
<td>-1.11%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ovintiv</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>-9.10%</td>
<td>$1.29B</td>
<td>3.30%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

Key Takeaway:
Marathon Oil ranks first in revenue growth among its peers. It also leads in gross profit margin. However, it ranks lowest in return on equity.
<h3>All You Need to Know About Marathon Oil</h3>
Marathon is an independent exploration and production company primarily focusing on unconventional resources in the United States. At the end of 2023, the company reported net proved reserves of 1.1 billion barrels of oil equivalent. Net production averaged 405 thousand barrels of oil equivalent per day in 2023 at a ratio of roughly 70% oil and NGLs and 30% natural gas.
<h3>Marathon Oil: Financial Performance Dissected</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: Falling below industry benchmarks, the company's market capitalization reflects a reduced size compared to peers. This positioning may be influenced by factors such as growth expectations or operational capacity.
Revenue Growth: Over the 3 months period, Marathon Oil showcased positive performance, achieving a revenue growth rate of 12.26% as of 30 June, 2024. This reflects a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. As compared to competitors, the company encountered difficulties, with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Energy sector.
Net Margin: Marathon Oil's net margin is impressive, surpassing industry averages. With a net margin of 20.95%, the company demonstrates strong profitability and effective cost management.
Return on Equity (ROE): Marathon Oil's ROE is below industry standards, pointing towards difficulties in efficiently utilizing equity capital. With an ROE of 3.12%, the company may encounter challenges in delivering satisfactory returns for shareholders.
Return on Assets (ROA): Marathon Oil's ROA is below industry averages, indicating potential challenges in efficiently utilizing assets. With an ROA of 1.77%, the company may face hurdles in achieving optimal financial returns.
Debt Management: With a below-average debt-to-equity ratio of 0.47, Marathon Oil adopts a prudent financial strategy, indicating a balanced approach to debt management.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MRO/earnings">To track all earnings releases for Marathon Oil visit their earnings calendar on our site.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Marathon Oil's Earnings: A Preview

The stock market indexes have enjoyed record highs in recent years with the S&amp;P 500 outperforming other years with President Joe Biden leading the country for the last <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/education/24/02/37275812/if-you-invested-in-the-s-p-500-when-joe-biden-became-president-heres-how-much-youd-have-today">nearly four years.</a>
With the 2024 presidential election nearing, here's a look back at the top performing S&amp;P 500 stocks in 2021, which was Biden's first year in the White House.
What Happened: Biden stepped down from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/2024-election">the 2024 presidential election </a>earlier this year. While the current president won't be re-elected to the White House, past performance with a Democrat as president could highlight which stocks and sectors could be winners if Kamala Harris is victorious in Tuesday's election.
The S&amp;P 500, which is tracked by the SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) was up 26.9% in 2021. This marked the best yearly performance since 2018 and the second-best performance for the key stock market index in the last 11 years.
The 12 months following Election Day 2020, which was won by Biden, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/22/01/25137004/biden-vs-trump-how-did-stock-market-returns-compare-after-their-first-year-as-president">saw the S&amp;P 500 gain 37.4%.</a> This was the best one-year market return under a president in many years.
Here were the 10 best-performing S&amp;P 500 stocks in 2021, according to a <a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/top-10-best-performing-stocks-190949855.html">report </a>from InvestorPlace, and their sectors.
<ol>
<li>Devon Energy (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DVN#NYSE">DVN</a>): 196.1%, energy</li>
<li>Marathon Oil (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRO#NYSE">MRO</a>): 149.7%, energy</li>
<li>Moderna (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRNA#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>): 143.1%, health care/biotech</li>
<li>Fortinet (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FTNT#NASDAQ">FTNT</a>): 142.0%, technology/cybersecurity</li>
<li>Signature Bank (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SBNY#OTC">SBNY</a>): 141.5%, financials</li>
<li>Ford (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/F#NYSE">F</a>): 137.5%, automotive</li>
<li>Bath &amp; Body Works (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BBWI#NYSE">BBWI</a>): 133.7%, consumer discretionary/retail</li>
<li>Diamondback Energy (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FANG#NASDAQ">FANG</a>): 127.4%, energy</li>
<li>NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>): 125.5%, technology/semiconductors</li>
<li>Nucor (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NUE#NYSE">NUE</a>): 118.4%, industrials</li>
</ol>
The results above show that energy was a top sector in 2021 and represented several of the top-performing stocks for the year. Technology also had several companies on the list.
Did You Know?
<ul>
<li>Congress Is Making Huge Investments. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/gov-trades/?utm_source=BZprocontent103124">Get Tips On What They Bought And Sold Ahead Of The 2024 Election With Our Easy-to-Use Tool</a></li>
</ul>
Why It's Important: Click through <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/politics/24/10/41584466/these-10-stocks-were-the-best-s-p-500-performers-in-2017-when-trump-was-president-will-history-r">to see the 10 best</a> and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/politics/24/10/41606114/10-s-p-500-stocks-were-worst-performers-in-first-year-of-trumps-presidency-will-they-sink-again">10 worst-performing</a> S&amp;P 500 stocks of 2017, Donald Trump's first year in the White House.
The list above included Nvidia, which was also a top 10 winner in 2017, during Donald Trump's first year in the White House.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/signature-bank" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Signature Bank</a>, which was the third-largest bank failure in U.S. history, was a top performer in 2017.
Investors should consider whether these past results could repeat if Harris is elected and begins her presidential term in 2025. Energy isn't often thought of as a segment that could do well under a Democratic president, but past results show that the sector could do well, at least in the first year.
Coincidentally, energy was cited as a potential poor sector if Trump wins the 2024 election based on the 2017 results. What likely happened in 2017, and what could happen again, is a run-up in stocks during the election year and a potential selloff in the year after as investors take profits.
With less than one week until the 2024 election, investors are likely positioning their portfolio based on a Trump or&nbsp;Harris&nbsp;victory in some regards. With a close election predicted, investors may want to look to sectors that could benefit under either candidate.
Freedom Capital Markets&nbsp;Chief Global Strategist&nbsp;Jay Woods&nbsp;previously<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/sector-etfs/24/08/40515453/exclusive-trump-or-harris-12-stocks-2-etfs-could-win-no-matter-whos-president-says-market-strate" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;shared some sectors&nbsp;</a>and stocks to watch with Benzinga that could benefit regardless of whether Trump or Harris wins the 2024 election.
Woods named defense stocks and cybersecurity stocks as two of the top sectors to watch ahead of the 2024 election.
&#8220;I think you&#8217;ve got to watch this sector closely,&#8221; Woods said of the defense sector.
Woods added that defense stocks could continue to benefit from geopolitical concerns and the world's many adverse events.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/sports-betting/24/10/41589659/trump-vs-harris-state-by-state-2024-election-betting-odds-which-candidate-is-favored-to-wi">Trump Vs. Harris: State-By-State 2024 Election Betting Odds, Which Candidate Is Favored To Win In Your Community?</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

These 10 Stocks Were S&P 500's Top Performers In Biden's First Year: Could Trend Continue If Harris Wins 2024 Election?

Crude oil prices plummeted over 6% on Monday, approaching levels not seen since early October, as investors processed news of targeted <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41567809/oil-etfs-plunge-premarket-after-israels-strikes-on-iran">Israeli airstrikes in Iran</a>.
U.S. energy stocks followed suit during premarket trading in New York, with sector ETFs posting sharp losses at the start of the week. 
Contracts on West Texas Intermediate (WTI) light crude, as tracked by the United States Oil Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/USO#NYSE">USO</a>), fell over 6% to around $67 per barrel on Monday morning, marking what could be the worst one-day drop since July 2022.
The sell-off followed Israeli airstrikes over the weekend that targeted military facilities in Iran but spared the country's oil infrastructure.
According to the Israel Defense Forces, the strikes were "targeted and precise," focusing on Iranian missile production and air defense installations. 
This measured response likely averted a deeper crisis in the oil market, as analysts warned that a broader assault on Iran's energy sector could have risked up to 1.7 million barrels per day (bpd) of Iranian crude exports and led to further regional destabilization. 
U.S. President Joe Biden had cautioned Israel against actions that would directly impact Iran's oil output, warning that such moves could prompt Tehran to retaliate by targeting oil shipping routes in the Middle East.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="503" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/28085347/image-274-1024x503.png" alt="" class="wp-image-617043" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/28085347/image-274-1024x503.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/28085347/image-274-300x147.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/28085347/image-274-768x377.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/28085347/image-274-1536x754.png 1536w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/28085347/image-274.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Analysts Expect Oil Prices To Remain Under Pressure</h3>
Goldman Sachs analysts had previously estimated that a sustained 1 million bpd disruption to Iranian oil supply could have pushed Brent prices up by $10–$20 per barrel. 
With no immediate threat to Iran's oil exports, the bank's forecast for Brent reaching the mid-$80s by late 2025 now appears overly optimistic compared to the consensus view.
The restrained nature of Israel's actions has led some analysts to predict that oil prices will remain subdued, especially in light of broader market dynamics. 
Warren Patterson, head of commodity strategy at ING Group, highlighted that Israel's focused response leaves "the door open for de-escalation," which seems to be reflected in Monday&#8217;s price action.
"If we do see some de-escalation, it would allow fundamentals to dictate price direction once again," Patterson explained, adding that a projected market surplus in 2025 &#8220;would mean that oil prices are&nbsp;likely to remain under pressure.&#8221;
Ole Hansen, head of commodity strategy at Saxo Bank, indicated that crude prices have now retraced most of the gains made in early October, which were fueled by Chinese economic stimulus and concerns over potential disruptions to Iran's supply. Hansen pointed out that "sluggish demand" and the impending reintroduction of OPEC+ barrels could further weigh on oil prices.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">China's Declining Demand, OPEC+ Production Decisions Add To Bearish Sentiment</h3>
On the demand side, Chinese consumption—accounting for roughly 15% of global oil demand—has been trending downward since May 2024
According to Pascal Devaux, an economist at BNP Paribas, this decline is tied not only to China's economic slowdown but also to structural changes within its energy sector. "Around 45% of new car registrations in China are for electric vehicles, either battery-powered or hybrid," Devaux said, underscoring the impact of the country's low-carbon transition on oil demand.
Capital Economics forecasts that if OPEC+ follows through on its plan to unwind voluntary production cuts initiated in October, an increase in oil supply combined with weak demand growth could drive prices lower throughout the remainder of 2024 and into 2025.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">US Energy Stocks See Sharp Losses</h3>
Sector ETFs posted notable declines in early trading:
<ul>
<li>The Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLE#NYSE">XLE</a>), which tracks large-cap U.S. energy companies, was down 2.3% at the start of Monday's session. APA Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/APA#NASDAQ">APA</a>), Diamondback Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FANG#NASDAQ">FANG</a>), and Marathon Oil Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRO#NYSE">MRO</a>) all registered losses between 3% and 4%.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>SPDR S&amp;P Oil &amp; Gas Exploration &amp; Production ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XOP#NYSE">XOP</a>), a broader measure of exploration and production stocks, slid 2.8%. Kosmos Energy Ltd (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KOS#NYSE">KOS</a>) and Vital Energy Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VTLE#NYSE">VTLE</a>) are both down 4%.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>VanEck Oil Services ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OIH#NYSE">OIH</a>) dropped 1.7%. Companies like ProPetro Holding Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PUMP#NYSE">PUMP</a>), Liberty Energy Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LBRT#NYSE">LBRT</a>), and Noble Corporation plc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NE#NYSE">NE</a>) were hit particularly hard, each falling by about 4%.</li>
</ul>
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41571526/exxon-shell-warren-buffett-backed-occidental-petroleum-and-other-oil-stocks-tumble-in-premarket-afte">Exxon, Shell, Warren Buffett-Backed Occidental Petroleum And Other Oil Stocks Tumble In Premarket After Israel&#8217;s Strikes On Iran</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Crude Oil Faces Steepest One-Day Drop In Over Two Years, Energy Stocks Plunge: Prices 'Are Likely To Remain Under Pressure,' Analyst Says

DWSN

EQNR

Shares of oil and oil-related companies are trading lower after Israel reportedly did not damage Iran's oil sites amid strikes over the weekend.

CRGY

EONR

INDO

MTDR

TRGP

Shares of energy stocks are trading lower as oil prices fall after Israel reportedly indicated it could target military sites in Iran but not oil or nuclear targets.

JPMorgan's Arun Jayaram just initiated coverage of ConocoPhillips (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COP#NYSE">COP</a>) with a Neutral rating and a price target of $126, down from the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities">previous target of $139</a>. 
The change reflects Jayaram's cautious outlook on oil fundamentals as a host of geopolitical and market uncertainties loom, but there's no denying ConocoPhillips' defensive prowess, as the company prepares for potential upside surprises.
While oil prices face potential downside pressure — due to factors like the Israel-Iran conflict, the U.S. election, and the OPEC+ wild card — ConocoPhillips' portfolio has a unique strength.
The energy giant pairs solid defense (low sustaining capital requirements and strong balance sheet) with the ability to go on offense, ready to cash in if oil prices swing higher. 
Jayaram sees the pending merger with Marathon Oil Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRO#NYSE">MRO</a>) as a factor that slightly increases ConocoPhillips&#8217; oil beta but also boosts its capacity for growth.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cash Is King, And COP Knows It</h2>
ConocoPhillips is putting its cash where its strategy is, targeting a whopping $9 billion in cash returns in 2024, with $5 billion of that earmarked for buybacks. 
But here's the kicker—after the Marathon Oil merger, those returns could swell to $11 billion in 2025, contingent on commodity prices playing nice. 
Even in a cautious scenario, Jayaram expects ConocoPhillips to shell out $9-10 billion in total cash returns to shareholders over the next two years, which would represent nearly half of its forecasted operating cash flow (CFO).
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41143156/oil-prices-spike-energy-stocks-jump-after-irans-missile-attack-on-israel-what-investors-need-to-know">Oil Prices Spike, Energy Stocks Jump After Iran&#8217;s Missile Attack On Israel: What Investors Need To Know</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Can Long-Cycle Investments Fuel Long-Term Growth?</h2>
ConocoPhillips&#8217; commitment to long-cycle projects, including the massive Willow and Port Arthur developments, is a key piece of its strategy. 
Jayaram's long-term model through 2032 suggests these investments will yield strong free cash flow (FCF) and production growth, with ConocoPhillips&#8217; adjusted production forecast to grow by 4% annually to 3.1 million barrels of oil equivalent per day by 2032. 
With cumulative FCF potentially reaching $99 billion by 2032, ConocoPhillips&#8217; long-term prospects look solid—even if near-term uncertainty persists.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Core E&amp;P Stock With A Conservative Outlook</h2>
Despite its &#8216;Neutral&#8217; rating, JPMorgan views ConocoPhillips as a core holding in the E&amp;P sector, thanks to its robust portfolio and shareholder-friendly cash return framework. 
Jayaram highlights ConocoPhillips&#8217; ability to navigate macro uncertainties with strength while offering investors attractive cash returns, with expected yields of 7% in 2025-26. However, with oil prices facing potential volatility, the path ahead for ConocoPhillips remains cautious but prepared for opportunity.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/10/41191633/us-energy-stocks-notch-biggest-weekly-gains-in-2-years-exxon-hits-record-highs-as">US Energy Stocks Notch Biggest Weekly Gains In 2 Years, Exxon Hits Record Highs As Crude Surges To $75 On Israel-Iran Jitters</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Long Ideas

Markets

ConocoPhillips Plays Defense, Preps For Offense With $9B Cash Return On Deck: Analyst

For meteorologists who study extreme weather events like Hurricane Milton — and Hurricane Helene just two weeks ago — the most frightening aspect of the back-to-back storms <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41257552/how-strong-is-milton-what-to-expect-from-hurricane-categories-1-through-5">isn&#8217;t just strength</a>. 
It&#8217;s speed. 
The fact that Milton mutated from tropical storm to Category 5 hurricane in under 24 hours stunned NBC6 Miami&#8217;s John Morales to the point where he held back tears. Watch the video<a href="https://twitter.com/JohnMoralesTV?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor"> in his X account</a>.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">I debated whether to share this. I did apologize on the air. But I invite you to read my introspection on <a href="https://twitter.com/BulletinAtomic?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BulletinAtomic</a> of how extreme weather &#x1f4c8; driven by global warming has changed me. Frankly, YOU should be shaken too, and demand <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ClimateActionNow?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ClimateActionNow</a>. <a href="https://t.co/09vxgabSmX">https://t.co/09vxgabSmX</a> <a href="https://t.co/GzQbDglsBG">https://t.co/GzQbDglsBG</a>
&mdash; John Morales (@JohnMoralesTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/JohnMoralesTV/status/1843325629741285439?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Morales isn&#8217;t alone. Other scientists sounded the alarm, too. They used words like &#8220;<a href="https://x.com/AndyHazelton/status/1843342493318033642?utm_source=substack&amp;utm_medium=email">unprecedented</a>&#8221; and &#8220;<a href="https://x.com/webberweather/status/1843317499091382515?s=46&amp;t=xkbHVlvdaIg9MYo3Hv8M_w&amp;utm_source=substack&amp;utm_medium=email">jaw-dropping</a>.&#8221;
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/real-estate/24/10/41251171/hurricane-helenes-destruction-sparks-search-for-safety-10-states-where-property-is-at-the-lowest-ris">Hurricane Helene&#8217;s Destruction Sparks Search For Safety — 10 States Where Property Is At The Lowest Risk</a>
Within 36 hours of formation, Milton&#8217;s winds reached 180 miles per hour. That&#8217;s lightning fast in the world of storm tracking. 
But it shouldn&#8217;t have been a surprise. Helene also mutated from a tropical storm to a Category 4 hurricane in just two days.
For those wondering how two storms, with rains Morales described as &#8220;<a href="https://thebulletin.org/2024/09/hurricane-helene-isnt-an-outlier-its-a-harbinger-of-the-future/#post-heading">biblical</a>,&#8221; are a sudden reality, NASA has an answer: Warm ocean waters due to human-caused climate change.
These conditions caused Milton and Helene to become powerful Category 5 storms.
&#8220;Sea surface temperatures in the Gulf of Mexico were well above average for this time of year as Milton churned toward Florida,&#8221; NASA Climate, an account affiliated with NASA, posted on X.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Warm ocean waters due to human-caused climate change helped fuel Hurricane <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Milton?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Milton</a> to become a powerful Category 5 storm. Sea surface temperatures in the Gulf of Mexico were well above average for this time of year as Milton churned toward Florida. <a href="https://t.co/p4WvGdpcWE">https://t.co/p4WvGdpcWE</a> <a href="https://t.co/P3qashjqoc">pic.twitter.com/P3qashjqoc</a>
&mdash; NASA Climate (@NASAClimate) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASAClimate/status/1844030081460502696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
The primary business activities of certain companies are directly linked to greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane.
You know the names: Exxon Mobil Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XOM#NYSE">XOM</a>) and Chevron Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVX#NYSE">CVX</a>), Marathon Oil Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRO#NYSE">MRO</a>), BP plc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BP#NYSE">BP</a>) and PetroChina (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PCCYF#OTC">PCCYF</a>), to name a few.
&#8220;I tried to warn people,&#8221; Morales wrote in the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists last month. &#8220;Except that the warning was not well received by everyone. A person accused me of being a &#8216;climate militant,&#8217; a suggestion that I'm embellishing extreme weather threats to drive an agenda. Another simply said that my predictions were &#8216;an exaggeration.&#8217; But it wasn't an exaggeration.&#8221;
Meanwhile, oil companies operating in the Gulf are currently experiencing setbacks. Chevron&#8217;s Blind Faith platform, for example, shut down and forced personnel to evacuate. It produces around 65,000 barrels of oil per day.
Historically, companies like Shell PLC (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHEL#NYSE">SHEL</a>) and others in the Gulf region followed similar protocols, ahead of significant storms like Helene and — just a couple of weeks earlier — Hurricane Francine​.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/09/40822108/hurricane-francine-approaches-louisiana-coast-may-become-category-2-storm">Hurricane Francine Approaches Louisiana Coast With Category 2 Storm Potential, Local Oil Refineries Cut Production</a>
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">ExxonMobil Accepts, Then Denies</h1>
Like Morales, ExxonMobil&#8217;s own scientists made similar predictions — in 1977. 
InsideClimateNews <a href="https://insideclimatenews.org/news/02052024/from-the-archive-exxon-research-global-warming/?utm_source=substack&amp;utm_medium=email#:~:text=He%20warned%20Exxon%20scientists%20and,degrees%20Fahrenheit)%20at%20the%20poles.">republished</a> a 2015 article this past May that chronicles how James Black presented evidence to Exxon brass decades ago, detailing how the oil industry&#8217;s operations would endanger humanity.
&#8220;There is general scientific agreement that the most likely manner in which mankind is influencing the global climate is through carbon dioxide release from the burning of fossil fuels," Black said at the time.
Exxon eventually <a href="https://insideclimatenews.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Exxon-Review-of-Climate-Research-Program-1981.pdf">nixed its carbon dioxide research</a> and chose, instead, to deny climate change. 
Fast-forward to today, elected officials are either <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4RbvIMfwNzU">dismissing</a> it entirely or calling it a <a href="https://x.com/realDonaldTrump/status/265895292191248385">hoax</a>. Meanwhile, the U.S. produces more oil <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/23/10/35240230/us-is-producing-more-oil-under-biden-than-at-any-point-under-the-trump-administration">than ever before</a>. 
&#8220;We're seeing it play out in this post-truth era, in ways that's really damaging society. And I'm not talking more in the psychological, esoterical ways, or maybe in the election outcome ways. This is getting in the way of emergency management agencies doing their job and saving lives and getting people out of harm's way,&#8221; Morales <a href="https://thebulletin.org/2024/10/meteorologist-john-morales-theres-rapid-intensification-theres-extreme-rapid-intensification-and-then-theres-hurricane-milton/">says</a>. &#8220;It's getting in the way of recovery efforts&#8230; And yeah, it's definitely a hindrance to my mission as a person whose life mission is saving life and property.&#8221;
What&#8217;s Next: The U.S. Energy Information Administration continues to analyze energy data, and how Milton <a href="https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=63444">affects</a> energy infrastructure. The agency will publish an inventory report on Thursday; The Wall Street Journal <a href="https://www.wsj.com/finance/commodities-futures/u-s-natural-gas-futures-move-lower-as-storm-looms-24b63a6f?mod=latest_headlines">expects</a> the surplus in U.S. natural gas to contract as Hurricane Milton makes its way across Florida.
Now Read:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/asia/24/10/41257792/oil-dips-to-73-as-china-withholds-stimulus-biden-attempts-to-contain-netanyahu-over-israels-attack-o">Oil Dips To $73 As China Withholds Stimulus, Biden Attempts To Contain Netanyahu Over Israel&#8217;s Attack On Iran</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Courtesy of NASA

PCCYF

How Did Hurricanes Milton, Helene Intensify So Quickly? ExxonMobil's Scientists Warned Us... In 1977

CEIX

CGBS

Shares of energy companies are trading lower, pulling back after recently rising amid Middle East tensions. China stimulus uncertainty may also be impacting the demand outlook.

In the current session, the stock is trading at $29.11, after a 0.41% increase. Over the past month, Marathon Oil Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRO#NYSE">MRO</a>) stock increased by 11.25%, and in the past year, by 11.21%. With performance like this, long-term shareholders are optimistic but others are more likely to look into the price-to-earnings ratio to see if the stock might be overvalued.

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1728330322_0.png" alt="Past Year Chart" />

<h3>Comparing Marathon Oil P/E Against Its Peers</h3>
The P/E ratio is used by long-term shareholders to assess the company's market performance against aggregate market data, historical earnings, and the industry at large. A lower P/E could indicate that shareholders do not expect the stock to perform better in the future or it could mean that the company is undervalued. 
Compared to the aggregate P/E ratio of the 18.32 in the Oil, Gas &amp; Consumable Fuels industry, Marathon Oil Inc. has a lower P/E ratio of 11.32. Shareholders might be inclined to think that the stock might perform worse than it's industry peers. It's also possible that the stock is undervalued. 

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1728330322_1.png" alt="Guage" />

In summary, while the price-to-earnings ratio is a valuable tool for investors to evaluate a company's market performance, it should be used with caution. A low P/E ratio can be an indication of undervaluation, but it can also suggest weak growth prospects or financial instability. Moreover, the P/E ratio is just one of many metrics that investors should consider when making investment decisions, and it should be evaluated alongside other financial ratios, industry trends, and qualitative factors. By taking a comprehensive approach to analyzing a company's financial health, investors can make well-informed decisions that are more likely to lead to successful outcomes.

Intraday Update

Price Over Earnings Overview: Marathon Oil

Shares of U.S. energy giants surged this week, marking the strongest performance in two years, as fears of a wider conflict in the Middle East between Iran and Israel drove oil prices <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/10/41172781/oil-prices-rally-biden-confirms-us-discussions-with-israel-about-striking-iran-facilities">to $75 per barrel. </a>
The Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLE#NYSE">XLE</a>), which tracks 31 major U.S. energy companies, including giants like Exxon Mobil Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XOM#NYSE">XOM</a>) and Chevron Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVX#NYSE">CVX</a>), recorded a remarkable 6.4% gain this week.
Investors poured nearly $300 million into the XLE ETF this week, the highest inflow since late July, according to Tradingview data.
Exxon Mobil, the largest U.S. oil company, reached a record high of $125 per share on Friday. The stock posted its sixth consecutive day of gains, ending the week up over 7%, marking its best performance since October 2022.
Oil prices continued their rally, with West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude recording its fourth straight day of gains, hitting levels last seen in late August. The geopolitical tensions between Israel and Iran have sparked concerns over global oil supply disruptions.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Rising Middle East Tensions, Biden Calls For Measured Israeli Response</h3>
Israel promised a strong retaliation after Iran launched more than 180 ballistic missiles on Tuesday. While Israel&#8217;s air defense systems successfully intercepted most of the missiles, the attack further intensified the already heightened regional instability.
On Friday, President Joe Biden addressed the escalating crisis during a rare appearance at the White House daily press briefing. He mentioned Israel&#8217;s right to defend itself but said the country had not yet decided how it would respond to Iran&#8217;s ballistic missile strike.
Biden said he advised Israel against further escalating the conflict, suggesting that Israel might consider alternatives to targeting oil fields in its retaliation.
In his first public appearance since the attack, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei defended the strike as &#8220;legitimate punishment&#8221; for what he called Israeli crimes and urged greater resistance against Israel in the region, Reuters reported.
Iran's deputy commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps also issued a stark warning, stating that Iran could target Israeli oil refineries and gas fields if Israel chooses to strike Iranian territory.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">This Week&#8217;s Top 10 Performing US Energy Stocks</h3>
U.S. energy stocks posted sharp gains, with the top performers this week including:
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Name</td>
<td>Price Chg. % (5D)</td>
<td>Market Cap</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Diamondback Energy, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FANG#NYSE">FANG</a>)</td>
<td>13.62%</td>
<td>$57.14B</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>APA Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/APA#NYSE">APA</a>)</td>
<td>9.36%</td>
<td>$9.92B</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>The Williams Companies, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMB#NYSE">WMB</a>)</td>
<td>9.04%</td>
<td>$60.02B</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Marathon Oil Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRO#NYSE">MRO</a>)</td>
<td>8.44%</td>
<td>$16.06B</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Occidental Petroleum Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OXY#NYSE">OXY</a>)</td>
<td>8.35%</td>
<td>$51.71B</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Halliburton Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HAL#NYSE">HAL</a>)</td>
<td>8.25%</td>
<td>$27.38B</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ConocoPhillips (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COP#NYSE">COP</a>)</td>
<td>8.19%</td>
<td>$131.57B</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>EOG Resources, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EOG#NYSE">EOG</a>)</td>
<td>8.05%</td>
<td>$75.23B</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Devon Energy Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DVN#NYSE">DVN</a>)</td>
<td>7.94%</td>
<td>$26.33B</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kinder Morgan, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KMI#NYSE">KMI</a>)</td>
<td>7.82%</td>
<td>$52.15B</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
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Macro Economic Events

Economics

US Energy Stocks Notch Biggest Weekly Gains In 2 Years, Exxon Hits Record Highs As Crude Surges To $75 On Israel-Iran Jitters

Barclays analyst Betty Jiang maintains Marathon Oil (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRO#NYSE">MRO</a>) with a Overweight and lowers the price target from $35 to $34.

Barclays Maintains Overweight on Marathon Oil, Lowers Price Target to $34

Wells Fargo analyst Roger Read maintains Marathon Oil (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRO#NYSE">MRO</a>) with a Equal-Weight and lowers the price target from $29 to $27.

Wells Fargo Maintains Equal-Weight on Marathon Oil, Lowers Price Target to $27

Piper Sandler analyst Mark Lear lowered the firm's price target on Marathon Oil (MRO) to $34 from $37 and keeps an Overweight rating on the shares....

Marathon Oil price target lowered to $34 from $37 at Piper Sandler

Barclays analyst Betty Jiang maintained a Buy rating on Marathon Oil (MRO – Research Report) today and set a price target of $34.00. The company's ...

Barclays Sticks to Its Buy Rating for Marathon Oil (MRO)

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RBC Capital analyst Scott Hanold maintained a Buy rating on Marathon Oil (MRO – Research Report) on November 20 and set a price target of $34.00. T...

RBC Capital Reaffirms Their Buy Rating on Marathon Oil (MRO)

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Press Releases

Kuehn Law Encourages LLAP, PALT, MRO, and PETQ Investors to Contact Law Firm

Legal

SHAREHOLDER INVESTIGATION: Halper Sadeh LLC Investigates PALT, PETQ, LLAP, MRO on Behalf of Shareholders

MARATHON OIL INVESTOR ALERT by the Former Attorney General of Louisiana: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC Investigates Adequacy of Price and Process in Proposed Sale of Marathon Oil Corporation - MRO

Marathon Oil Receives Stockholder Approval for Proposed Merger with ConocoPhillips

Marathon Oil Schedules Third Quarter 2024 Earnings Release

Dividends

Marathon Oil Corporation Declares Third Quarter 2024 Dividend

Marathon Oil Reports Third Quarter 2024 Results

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ConocoPhillips completes acquisition of Marathon Oil Corporation

ConocoPhillips Company announces exchange offers for debt securities and consent solicitations by Marathon Oil Corporation

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