Occidental Petroleum Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the acquisition, exploration, and development of oil and gas properties in the United States, the Middle East, and North Africa. It operates through three segments: Oil and Gas, Chemical, and Midstream and Marketing. The company's Oil and Gas segment explores for, develops, and produces oil and condensate, natural gas liquids (NGLs), and natural gas. Its Chemical segment manufactures and markets basic chemicals, including chlorine, caustic soda, chlorinated organics, potassium chemicals, ethylene dichloride, chlorinated isocyanurates, sodium silicates, and calcium chloride; and vinyls comprising vinyl chloride monomer, polyvinyl chloride, and ethylene. The Midstream and Marketing segment gathers, processes, transports, stores, purchases, and markets oil, condensate, NGLs, natural gas, carbon dioxide, and power. This segment also invests in entities. Occidental Petroleum Corporation was founded in 1920 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas.

Occidental Petroleum Corporation (OXY) демонстрирует смешанную фундаментальную картину. С одной стороны, компания имеет высокий P/E (33.78), что указывает на возможную переоцененность относительно отрасли, но ее выручка и чистая прибыль значительно превышают медианные показатели, что является позитивным сигналом. Тем не менее, ROE, ROA и ROI находятся ниже медианных значений, что указывает на низкую эффективность использования капитала. Долговая нагрузка (debt-to-equity) превышает медиану, что увеличивает финансовые риски. Дивидендная доходность на данный момент нулевая, что также негативно сказывается на привлекательности акций для инвесторов. В то же время, валовая маржа (63.58%) значительно выше медианной, что является положительным моментом. В целом, несмотря на некоторые сильные стороны, такие как высокий уровень выручки и чистой прибыли, слабые показатели эффективности и высокая долговая нагрузка накладывают ограничения на оценку компании, что может привести к необходимости пересмотра целевой цены вниз.

Occidental Petroleum Corporation

Momentum investing is all about the idea of following a stock's recent trend, which can be in either direction. In the "long context," investors will essentially be "buying high, but hoping to sell even higher." And for investors following this methodology, taking advantage of trends in a stock's price is key; once a stock establishes a course, it is more than likely to continue moving in that direction. The goal is that once a stock heads down a fixed path, it will lead to timely and profitable trades.
Even though momentum is a popular stock characteristic, it can be tough to define. Debate surrounding which are the best and worst metrics to focus on is lengthy, but the Zacks Momentum Style Score, part of the Zacks Style Scores, helps address this issue for us.
Below, we take a look at Occidental Petroleum (OXY), which currently has a Momentum Style Score of A. We also discuss some of the main drivers of the Momentum Style Score, like price change and earnings estimate revisions.
It's also important to note that Style Scores work as a complement to the Zacks Rank, our stock rating system that has an impressive track record of outperformance. Occidental Petroleum currently has a Zacks Rank of #1 (Strong Buy). Our research shows that stocks rated Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) and #2 (Buy) and Style Scores of "A or B" outperform the market over the following one-month period.
You can see the current list of Zacks #1 Rank Stocks here >>>
Set to Beat the Market?
In order to see if OXY is a promising momentum pick, let's examine some Momentum Style elements to see if this oil and gas exploration and production company holds up.
Looking at a stock's short-term price activity is a great way to gauge if it has momentum, since this can reflect both the current interest in a stock and if buyers or sellers have the upper hand at the moment. It is also useful to compare a security to its industry, as this can help investors pinpoint the top companies in a particular area.
For OXY, shares are up 7.59% over the past week while the Zacks Oil and Gas - Integrated - United States industry is up 2.68% over the same time period. Shares are looking quite well from a longer time frame too, as the monthly price change of 18.28% compares favorably with the industry's 1.04% performance as well.
While any stock can see its price increase, it takes a real winner to consistently beat the market. That is why looking at longer term price metrics -- such as performance over the past three months or year -- can be useful as well. Over the past quarter, shares of Occidental Petroleum have risen 45.66%, and are up 43.44% in the last year. On the other hand, the S&P 500 has only moved -3.71% and 17.6%, respectively.
Investors should also pay attention to OXY's average 20-day trading volume. Volume is a useful item in many ways, and the 20-day average establishes a good price-to-volume baseline; a rising stock with above average volume is generally a bullish sign, whereas a declining stock on above average volume is typically bearish. OXY is currently averaging 23,085,150 shares for the last 20 days.
Earnings Outlook
The Zacks Momentum Style Score also takes into account trends in estimate revisions, in addition to price changes. Please note that estimate revision trends remain at the core of Zacks Rank as well. A nice path here can help show promise, and we have recently been seeing that with OXY.
Over the past two months, 8 earnings estimates moved higher compared to none lower for the full year. These revisions helped boost OXY's consensus estimate, increasing from $0.65 to $3.10 in the past 60 days. Looking at the next fiscal year, 6 estimates have moved upwards while there have been no downward revisions in the same time period.
Bottom Line
Taking into account all of these elements, it should come as no surprise that OXY is a #1 (Strong Buy) stock with a Momentum Score of A. If you've been searching for a fresh pick that's set to rise in the near-term, make sure to keep Occidental Petroleum on your short list.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Here's Why Occidental Petroleum (OXY) is a Great Momentum Stock to Buy

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is down -0.06%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) is down -0.23%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is down -0.20%. June E-mini S&P futures (ESM26) are down -0.04%, and June E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQM26) are down -0.14%.
Stock indexes are under pressure today as the price of crude oil soars more than +8% after President Trump dashed hopes for a quick end to the war with Iran. During a speech to the American public on Wednesday evening, Mr. Trump pledged more aggressive action against Iran over the next two to three weeks and offered no concrete plans to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. WTI crude oil prices are up by more than 8% today, at a 3.5-week high, fueling inflation fears.
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However, stocks recovered from their worst levels as short covering emerged on a report from Iran’s state-run IRNA that said Iran is drafting a protocol with Oman to monitor traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, citing Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibaldi. Also, today’s US economic news was better than expected and supportive of stocks. Weekly initial unemployment claims unexpectedly fell by -9,000 to a 2.5-month low of 202,000, showing a stronger labor market than expectations of an increase to 212,000. Also, the Feb trade deficit was -$57.3 billion, narrower than expectations of -$60.6 billion.
Crude oil prices (CLK26) are surging by more than +8% today as the Iran war looks set to drag on and the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed. The UAE is preparing to help the US and other allies open the Strait of Hormuz by force and is lobbying for a United Nations Security Council resolution authorizing such action. The International Energy Agency warned that even if the war were to end within a few weeks, it would still take time for normal flows through Hormuz to resume, as some energy infrastructure has been damaged and is facing lengthy repairs.
The markets are discounting a 1% chance for a +25 bp FOMC rate hike at the April 28-29 policy meeting.
Overseas stock markets are lower today. The Euro Stoxx 50 is down -0.85%. China's Shanghai Composite closed down -0.74%. Japan's Nikkei Stock 225 fell from a 2-week high and closed down sharply by -2.38%.
Interest Rates
June 10-year T-notes (ZNM6) today are up by +3 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield is down by -2.6 bp to 4.293%. June T-notes recovered from early losses and moved higher today as a sell-off in equity markets boosted safe-haven demand for T-notes. Also, T-notes are finding support on concerns that soaring energy prices will derail the global economy and may prompt the Fed to lower interest rates.
T-notes today initially moved lower as a surge in crude oil prices pushed inflation expectations higher. WTI crude is up more than +8% at a 3.5-week high, pushing the 10-year breakeven inflation rate to a 1-week high of 2.361% today.
European government bond yields are moving lower today. The 10-year German bund yield is down -0.1 bp to 2.984%. The 10-year UK gilt yield is down -1.0 bp to 4.820%.
Swaps are discounting a 47% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at its next policy meeting on April 30.
US Stock Movers
Chip makers and AI-infrastructure stocks are retreating today, weighing on the broader market. ARM Holdings Plc (ARM) is down more than -5% to lead losers in the Nasdaq 100. Also, Western Digital (WDC) is down more than -2%. In addition, Micron Technology (MU), Lam Research (LRCX), ASML Holding NV (ASML), Applied Materials (AMAT), Qualcomm (QCOM), and NXP Semiconductors NV (NXPI) are down more than -1%.
Airline stocks and cruise line operators are moving sharply lower today as crude oil prices surge more than +8%, raising fuel costs and cutting into corporate profits. American Airlines Group (AAL), Carnival (CCL), and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) are down more than -4%, and United Airlines Holdings (UAL) and Southwest Airlines (LUV) are down more than -3%. Also, Alaska Air Group (ALK), Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd (RCL), and Delta Air Lines (DAL) are down more than -2%.
Energy producers and energy service providers are rallying today as WTI crude oil soars by more than +8%. Diamondback Energy (FANG) is up more than +2%, and APA Corp (APA), Occidental Petroleum (OXY), ConocoPhillips (COP), Chevron (CVX), Marathon Petroleum (MPC), Halliburton (HAL), and Devon Energy (DVN) are up more than +1%.
Alto Neuroscience (ANRO) is down more than -3% after its ALTO-101 to treat cognitive impairment associated with schizophrenia failed to achieve statistical significance versus placebo in a Phase 2 trial.
Estee Lauder (EL) is down more than -4% to lead losers in the S&P 500 after saying it’s advancing in negotiations to combine with Puig Brands SA.
Tesla (TSLA) is down more than -3% after reporting Q1 vehicle deliveries of 358,023, below the consensus of 372,160.
Nike (NKE) is down more than -2% to lead losers in the Dow Jones Industrial, extending Wednesday’s -15% plunge after forecasting Q4 revenue to be down -2% to -4% and saying its turnaround efforts are taking longer than originally planned.
Globalstar (GSAT) is up more than +9% after the Financial Times reported that Amazon.com is in talks to acquire the company.
Wingstop (WING) is up more than +6% after Raymond James upgraded the stock to strong buy from outperform with a price target of $240.
SM Energy (SM) is up more than +4% after BMO Capital Markets raised its price target on the stock to $33 from $26.
Intel (INTC) is up more than +3% to lead gainers in the Nasdaq 100 after D.A. Davidson said Intel’s action to pay $14.2 billion to buy back half of its plant in Ireland bodes well for the company’s turnaround story.
Matador Resources (MTDR) is up more than +3% after KeyBanc Capital Markets raised its price target on the stock to $73 from $61.
Earnings Reports(4/2/2026)
Acuity Inc (AYI), AirSculpt Technologies Inc (AIRS), AngioDynamics Inc (ANGO), FS Bancorp Inc (FSBW), Lindsay Corp (LNN).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Stocks Pare Losses on Hormuz Report

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is down -1.13%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) is down -1.15%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is down -1.53%. June E-mini S&P futures (ESM26) are down -1.07%, and June E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQM26) are down -1.47%.
Stock indexes are sinking today as the price of crude oil soars more than +13% after President Trump dashed hopes for a quick end to the war with Iran. During a speech to the American public on Wednesday evening, Mr. Trump pledged more aggressive action against Iran over the next two to three weeks and offered no concrete plans to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. WTI crude oil prices soared to a 3.5-week high today and are fueling inflation fears, pushing bond yields higher. The 10-year T-note yield is up +2 bp to 4.34%.
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Today’s US economic news was better than expected and supportive of stocks. Weekly initial unemployment claims unexpectedly fell by -9,000 to a 2.5-month low of 202,000, showing a stronger labor market than expectations of an increase to 212,000. Also, the Feb trade deficit was -$57.3 billion, narrower than expectations of -$60.6 billion.
Crude oil prices (CLK26) are surging by more than +10% today as the Iran war looks set to drag on and the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed. The UAE is preparing to help the US and other allies open the Strait of Hormuz by force and is lobbying for a United Nations Security Council resolution authorizing such action. The International Energy Agency warned that even if the war were to end within a few weeks, it would still take time for normal flows through Hormuz to resume, as some energy infrastructure has been damaged and is facing lengthy repairs.
The markets are discounting a 3% chance for a +25 bp FOMC rate hike at the April 28-29 policy meeting.
Overseas stock markets are lower today. The Euro Stoxx 50 is down -2.25%. China's Shanghai Composite closed down -0.74%. Japan's Nikkei Stock 225 fell from a 2-week high and closed down sharply by -2.38%.
Interest Rates
June 10-year T-notes (ZNM6) today are down by -10 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield is up by +2.0 bp to 4.339%. June T-notes are under pressure today as soaring crude prices push inflation expectations higher. WTI crude is up more than +10% at a 3.5-week high, pushing the 10-year breakeven inflation rate to a 1-week high of 2.361% today. T-notes are also falling amid concerns that the war with Iran will drag on and keep pushing energy prices higher, worsening inflation, and possibly forcing the Fed to tighten monetary policy.
European government bond yields are moving higher today. The 10-year German bund yield is up +5.9 bp to 3.045%. The 10-year UK gilt yield is up +10.1 bp to 4.931%.
Swaps are discounting a 58% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at its next policy meeting on April 30.
US Stock Movers
The Magnificent Seven technology stocks are falling today, a bearish factor for the overall market. Tesla (TSLA) is down more than -4%, and Meta Platforms (META) is down more than -2%. Also, Nvidia (NVDA), Alphabet (GOOGL), Amazon.com (AMZN), Microsoft (MSFT), and Apple (AAPL) are down more than -1%.
Chip makers and AI-infrastructure stocks are retreating today, weighing on the broader market. Micron Technology (MU) is down more than -6% to lead losers in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100. Also, Western Digital (WDC), Sandisk (SNDK), and Lam Research (LRCX) are down more than -5%, and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), ARM Holdings Plc (ARM), Seagate Technology Holdings Plc (STX), ASML Holding NV (ASML), and Marvell Technology (MRVL) are down more than -4%. In addition, Applied Materials (AMAT), KLA Corp (KLAC), Broadcom (AVGO), and Microchip Technology (MCHP) are down more than -3%,
Mining stocks are slumping today, with gold prices down more than -4% and silver prices down more than -7%. Coeur Mining (CDE) and Hecla Mining (HL) are down more than -4%, and Anglogold Ashanti (AU), Barrick Mining (B), and Southern Copper (SCCO) are down more than -3%. Also, Freeport McMoRan (FCX) is down more than -2%, and Newmont Corp (NEM) is down more than -1%.
Airline stocks are moving sharply lower today as crude oil prices surge more than +10%, raising fuel costs and cutting into corporate profits. United Airlines Holdings (UAL) and American Airlines Group (AAL) are down more than -6%, and Alaska Air Group (ALK) and Southwest Airlines (LUV) are down more than -5%. Also, Delta Air Lines (DAL) is down more than -4%.
Asset management stocks are falling today, led by an -8% drop in Blue Owl Capital (OWL) after it said it will limit redemptions from two of its private credit funds after facing a surge in withdrawal requests. Also, Apollo Global Management (APO) is down more than -4%, and Ares Management (ARES) and Blackstone (BX) are down more than -3%. In addition, BlackRock (BLK) and Franklin Resources (BEN) are down more than -1%.
Energy producers and energy service providers are rallying today as WTI crude oil soars by more than +13%. Diamondback Energy (FANG) is up more than +4% to lead gainers in the Nasdaq 100, and APA Corp (APA) and Occidental Petroleum (OXY) are up more than +4%. Also, ConocoPhillips (COP) is up more than +3%, and Chevron (CVX) is up more than +2% to lead gainers in the Dow Jones Industrials. In addition, Phillips 66 (PSX), Halliburton (HAL), Devon Energy (DVN), and Valero Energy (VLO) are up more than +2%.
Alto Neuroscience (ANRO) is down more than -8% after its ALTO-101 to treat cognitive impairment associated with schizophrenia failed to achieve statistical significance versus placebo in a Phase 2 trial.
Immunovant (IMVT) is down more than -4% after results from two late-stage studies of its treatment for thyroid eye disease failed to meet their primary endpoints.
Akamai Technologies (AKAM) is down more than -1% after Baird downgraded the stock to neutral from outperform with a price target of $110.
Globalstar (GSAT) is up more than +9% after the Financial Times reported that Amazon.com is in talks to acquire the company.
SM Energy (SM) is up more than +7% after BMO Capital Markets raised its price target on the stock to $33 from $26.
Matador Resources (MTDR) is up more than +5% after KeyBanc Capital Markets raised its price target on the stock to $73 from $61.
Wingstop (WING) is up more than +2% after Raymond James upgraded the stock to strong buy from outperform with a price target of $240.
Earnings Reports(4/2/2026)
Acuity Inc (AYI), AirSculpt Technologies Inc (AIRS), AngioDynamics Inc (ANGO), FS Bancorp Inc (FSBW), Lindsay Corp (LNN).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
More news from Barchart
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Stocks Sink as President Trump Signals Iran War Will Drag On

In early trading on Thursday, shares of APA topped the list of the day's best performing components of the S&P 500 index, trading up 6.0%. Year to date, APA registers a 79.2% gain.
And the worst performing S&P 500 component thus far on the day is Micron Technology, trading down 6.8%. Micron Technology is showing a gain of 20.1% looking at the year to date performance.
Two other components making moves today are United Airlines Holdings, trading down 6.5%, and Occidental Petroleum, trading up 5.8% on the day.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

S&P 500 Movers: MU, APA

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) on Wednesday closed up +0.72%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) closed up +0.48%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) closed up +1.18%. June E-mini S&P futures (ESM26) rose +0.74%, and June E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQM26) rose +1.15%.
Stock indexes extended Tuesday’s sharp rally on Wednesday, with the Dow Jones Industrials posting a 2-week high on mounting optimism that the war in the Middle East is nearing a conclusion. President Trump said Wednesday that he foresaw the US ending the war with Iran within two to three weeks. Mr. Trump said Iran has asked for a ceasefire, which he will consider when the Strait of Hormuz is “open, free and clear.” Meanwhile, the US and Israeli forces kept up their bombardment of Iran, while Israel, Bahrain, Kuwait, and the UAE all reported attacks by Iran, with Qatar saying a fuel oil tanker was struck in Qatari waters.
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Stocks remained higher on Wednesday amid better-than-expected US economic news on Mar ADP employment, Feb retail sales, and Mar ISM manufacturing activity.
US MBA mortgage applications fell -10.4% in the week ended March 27, with the purchase mortgage sub-index down -2.6% and the refinancing sub-index down -17.3%. The average 30-year fixed rate mortgage rose +14 bp to a 7-month high of 6.57% from 6.43% in the prior week.
The US Mar ADP employment change rose by +62,000, stronger than expectations of +40,000.
US Feb retail sales rose +0.6% m/m, stronger than expectations of +0.5% m/m, and Feb retail sales ex-autos rose +0.5% m/m, stronger than expectations of +0.3% m/m.
The US Mar ISM manufacturing index unexpectedly rose +0.3 to 52.7, stronger than expectations of a decline to 52.3 and the strongest pace of expansion in 3.5 years. The Mar ISM prices paid sub-index rose +7.8 to a 3.75-year high of 78.3, stronger than expectations of 74.0.
Hawkish comments on Wednesday from St. Louis Fed President Alberto Musalem were bearish for stocks, as he said risks are rising to both inflation and employment and added, "I expect the current setting of the policy rate will remain appropriate for some time."
President Trump will give a televised address to the country at 9 pm Eastern time on Wednesday night to provide an “important update” on Iran. He said Iran could still reach a deal with the US, but that an agreement with Iran isn’t a prerequisite for ending the war.
Crude oil prices (CLK26) fell more than -1% on Wednesday on hopes for an end to the Iran war and a reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday that the UAE is preparing to help the US and other allies open the Strait of Hormuz by force and is lobbying for a United Nations Security Council resolution authorizing such action.
The markets are discounting a 1% chance for a +25 bp FOMC rate hike at the April 28-29 policy meeting.
Overseas stock markets settled higher on Wednesday. The Euro Stoxx 50 climbed to a 2-week high and closed up +2.93%. China's Shanghai Composite rose to a 1.5-week high and closed up +1.46%. Japan's Nikkei Stock 225 closed up sharply by +5.24%.
Interest Rates
June 10-year T-notes (ZNM6) on Wednesday closed down by -2 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield rose by +0.6 bp to 4.323%. June T-notes fell from a 1.5-week high on Wednesday, and the 10-year T-note yield moved higher from a 1.5-week low of 4.257%. T-notes gave up an early advance on Wednesday due to stronger-than-expected US ADP, retail sales, and ISM manufacturing reports. Also, price pressures weighed on T-notes after the Mar ISM prices paid sub-index rose more than expected to a 3.75-year high. In addition, hawkish comments on Wednesday from St. Louis Fed President Alberto Musalem undercut T-note prices when he said, "I expect the current setting of the policy rate will remain appropriate for some time."
T-notes initially moved higher today on Wednesday after WTI crude oil prices fell more than -1%, easing inflation expectations. Also, optimism that a resolution to the Iran war will lead to lower energy prices, allowing the Fed to cut interest rates, is supportive of T-note prices.
European government bond yields moved lower on Wednesday. The 10-year German bund yield dropped to a 2-week low of 2.931% and finished down -1.8 bp to 2.986%. The 10-year UK gilt yield fell to a 2-week low of 4.777% and finished down -8.6 bp to 4.830%.
The Eurozone Mar S&P manufacturing PMI was revised upward by +0.2 to 51.6 from the previously reported 51.4, the strongest pace of expansion in 3.75 years.
The Eurozone Feb unemployment rate unexpectedly rose +0.1 to 6.2%, showing a weaker labor market than expectations of no change at 6.1%.
Swaps are discounting a 49% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at its next policy meeting on April 30.
US Stock Movers
Chip makers and AI-infrastructure stocks moved sharply higher on Wednesday, lifting the overall market. Western Digital (WDC) closed up more than +10% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100, and Sandisk (SNDK) closed up more than +9%. Also, Intel (INTC) closed up more than +8%, and Seagate Technology Holdings Plc (STX) and Marvell Technology (MRVL) closed up more than +7%. In addition, Lam Research (LRCX), Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), KLA Corp (KLAC), Applied Materials (AMAT), and ASML Holding NV (ASML) closed up more than +3%.
Mining stocks rallied on Wednesday as gold and silver prices surged to 2-week highs. Anglogold Ashanti (AU) closed up more than +6%, and Newmont Corp (NEM) closed up more than +5%. Also, Freeport McMoRan (FCX) closed up more than +4%, and Barrick Mining (B) and Southern Copper (SCCO) closed up more than +3%. In addition, Coeur Mining (CDE) and Hecla Mining (HL) closed up more than +2%.
Airline stocks moved higher on Wednesday as crude oil prices fell by more than -1% amid hopes that an end to the Iran war is near. United Airlines Holdings (UAL) and American Airlines Group (AAL) closed up more than +3%, and Alaska Air Group (ALK), Delta Air Lines (DAL), and Southwest Airlines (LUV) closed up more than +2%.
Optoelectronic companies are rallying today. Lumentum Holdings (LITE) closed up more than +8%, and Corning (GLW) closed up more than +4%. Also, Coherent (COHR) closed up more than +3%, and Applied Optoelectronics (AAOI) and Credo Technology Group Holding Ltd (CRDO) closed up more than +2%.
Energy producers and energy service providers retreated on Wednesday as WTI crude oil fell by more than -1%. Exxon Mobil (XOM) closed down more than -5%, and Chevron (CVX) and Occidental Petroleum (OXY) closed down more than -4%. Also, Diamondback Energy (FANG) closed down more than -3% to lead losers in the Nasdaq 100, and Phillips 66 (PSX) and Devon Energy (DVN) closed down more than -3%. In addition, APA Corp (APA), ConocoPhillips (COP), Halliburton (HAL), Marathon Petroleum (MPC), and Valero Energy (VLO) closed down more than -2%.
Target Hospitality (TH) closed up more than +36% after securing a multi-year contract worth over $550 million to construct and provide hospitality services for a data center development in Texas.
nCino (NCNO) closed up more than +10% after forecasting 2027 subscription revenue of $569 million to $573 million, better than the consensus of $568.5 million.
Boeing (BA) closed up more than +4% to lead gainers in the Dow Jones Industrials after Wells Fargo Securities initiated coverage on the stock with an overweight rating and a price target of $250.
Eli Lilly & Co (LLY) closed up more than +3% after the FDA approved the company’s obesity pill, Foundayo, under the agency’s National Priority Voucher pilot program.
Oric Pharmaceuticals (ORIC) closed down more than 40% after announcing an update on its rinzimetostat program, which JPMorgan Chase said was based on a too-small sample and a short follow-up, making it unreasonable to expect clear efficacy differentiation at this stage.
RH (RH) closed down more than -19% after forecasting 2027 revenue to be down -2% to -4%, much weaker than the consensus of an +8.1% increase.
Nike (NKE) closed down more than -15% to lead losers in the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrials after forecasting Q4 revenue to be down -2% to -4% and saying its turnaround efforts are taking longer than originally planned.
Hasbro (HAS) closed down by more than -4% after it said it discovered unauthorized access in its network on Saturday and has taken certain systems offline.
Earnings Reports(4/2/2026)
Acuity Inc (AYI), AirSculpt Technologies Inc (AIRS), AngioDynamics Inc (ANGO), FS Bancorp Inc (FSBW), Lindsay Corp (LNN).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
More news from Barchart
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Stocks Settle Higher on Hopes for Conclusion to Iran War

The S&P 500 (SNPINDEX:^GSPC) rose 0.72% to 6,575.32, the Nasdaq Composite (NASDAQINDEX:^IXIC) climbed 1.16% to 21,840.95, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJINDICES:^DJI) added 0.48% to 46,565.74 as easing Iran-war fears and sliding oil prices buoyed markets.
Market movers
Semiconductor strength showed through with big gains for Micron Technology (NASDAQ:MU) and Intel (NASDAQ:INTC) today. Intel announced it will buy back its stake in one of its Irish chip plants.
American Airlines Group (NASDAQ:AAL) and Delta Air Lines (NYSE:DAL) both finished in the green as cautious confidence returned to travel stocks. Energy stocks, including Occidental Petroleum (NYSE:OXY) and Chevron (NYSE:CVX), saw sharp declines, but have still surged so far this year.
Nike (NYSE:NKE) tumbled over 15% after sharing disappointing sales forecasts in its Q3 earnings. Eli Lilly (NYSE:LLY) jumped after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved its new obesity pill.
What this means for investors
Brent crude dipped briefly below $100 in intraday trading, finishing the day down almost 15% at $101. The drop in oil prices and rally in major U.S. indexes came amid growing optimism that the war in Iran might end soon. Gold and gold mining stocks also rose.
Despite today’s rally, the S&P 500 is down 4% since the start of the year. Energy prices will remain elevated even after the conflict ends, which could push up inflation and pressure stock prices. It is important to be prepared for further headline-driven volatility, maintain a diversified portfolio, and stay focused on long-term investment goals.
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Emma Newbery has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Chevron, Intel, Micron Technology, and Nike. The Motley Fool recommends Delta Air Lines and Occidental Petroleum. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Stock Market Today, April 1: Markets Rally and Oil Prices Fall for Second Day Running

Key Points
The sharp spike in oil and gasoline prices is very good for energy companies.
Even after its recent run-up, the sector looks likely to have a very good 2026.
Only one sector of the S&P 500 index was up in March. You might have guessed it. It was the energy sector. As a group, energy stocks in the index were up about 11.9% for the month. Every other sector in the index was down in March, from utilities (down 4.5%) to healthcare (down 10.6%). The overall S&P 500, by the way, was down about 7.6% for the month.
What's different about energy stocks? Well, they're heavily focused on fossil fuels like oil. The price of oil spiked in March due to the Middle East war and the resulting closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which some 20% of the world's seaborne oil travels.
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Brent crude oil, the international benchmark, is up 55% since the war began in late February. The average price of a gallon of gasoline in the U.S. has climbed more than $1, to about $4 (a national average for regular gasoline), according to AAA.
Rising oil and gasoline prices have been very good for energy companies, from upstream exploration and production companies like Occidental Petroleum (NYSE: OXY), which was up 26% in March, to refiners like Marathon Petroleum (NYSE: MPC), up 24.8%, to oil majors like ExxonMobil (NYSE: XOM), up 13.3%. The question now is, can energy stocks' incredible run last?
Energy prices look to remain high for the duration of 2026
Well, it certainly looks to continue as long as the war continues and Iran can continue blocking traffic through the Strait. As I write this, there is no end in sight to either problem.
But when the war does eventually end, what about these stocks? Well, the oil market is currently in a state known as backwardation. That is, current or "spot" prices are higher than future prices. For example, right now (on March 26), a barrel of Brent crude, the international benchmark, is trading at about $113. That's the spot price. But a barrel of oil for delivery in June costs about $108, falling to around $91 for a barrel in September, and about $88 for a barrel delivered in December.
Among other things, that tells us that the futures market expects oil prices to fall in the coming months. That is, the collective wisdom of the market says that the current spike in oil prices is a temporary situation that will not last long.
Still, the price of a barrel of oil for delivery in December currently stands at $84, well above pre-war levels. That means that the oil companies should have a better 2026 than anyone expected. Oil prices are likely to remain elevated long after the guns go silent, as much energy infrastructure and many strategic reserves have been damaged.
So right now, energy stocks remain attractive, no matter what happens in the geopolitical sphere.
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Matthew Benjamin has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Occidental Petroleum. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Only 1 Sector Is Up Over the Past Month

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is up +0.97%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) is up +0.86%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is up +1.45%. June E-mini S&P futures (ESM26) are up +0.96%, and June E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQM26) are up +1.47%.
Stock indexes are extending Tuesday’s sharp rally today, with the Dow Jones Industrials posting a 2-week high on mounting optimism that the war in the Middle East is nearing a conclusion. President Trump said he foresaw the US ending the war with Iran within two to three weeks. Mr. Trump said Iran has asked for a ceasefire, which he will consider when the Strait of Hormuz is “open, free and clear.” Meanwhile, the US and Israeli forces kept up their bombardment of Iran, while Israel, Bahrain, Kuwait, and the UAE all reported attacks by Iran, with Qatar saying a fuel oil tanker was struck in Qatari waters.
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Stocks remained higher today on better-than-expected US economic news on Mar ADP employment, Feb retail sales, and Mar ISM manufacturing activity.
US MBA mortgage applications fell -10.4% in the week ended March 27, with the purchase mortgage sub-index down -2.6% and the refinancing sub-index down -17.3%. The average 30-year fixed rate mortgage rose +14 bp to a 7-month high of 6.57% from 6.43% in the prior week.
The US Mar ADP employment change rose by +62,000, stronger than expectations of +40,000.
US Feb retail sales rose +0.6% m/m, stronger than expectations of +0.5% m/m, and Feb retail sales ex-autos rose +0.5% m/m, stronger than expectations of +0.3% m/m.
The US Mar ISM manufacturing index unexpectedly rose +0.3 to 52.7, stronger than expectations of a decline to 52.3 and the strongest pace of expansion in 3.5 years. The Mar ISM prices paid sub-index rose +7.8 to a 3.75-year high of 78.3, stronger than expectations of 74.0.
Hawkish comments today from St. Louis Fed President Alberto Musalem were bearish for stocks, as he said risks are rising to both inflation and employment and added, "I expect the current setting of the policy rate will remain appropriate for some time."
President Trump will give a televised address to the country at 9 pm Eastern time tonight to provide an “important update” on Iran. He said Iran could still reach a deal with the US, but that an agreement with Iran isn’t a prerequisite for ending the war.
Crude oil prices (CLK26) are down more than -2% today on hopes for an end to the Iran war and a reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The Wall Street Journal reported today that the UAE is preparing to help the US and other allies open the Strait of Hormuz by force and is lobbying for a United Nations Security Council resolution authorizing such action.
The markets are discounting a 1% chance for a +25 bp FOMC rate hike at the April 28-29 policy meeting.
Overseas stock markets are higher today. The Euro Stoxx 50 climbed to a 2-week high and is up +2.60%. China's Shanghai Composite rose to a 1.5-week high and closed up +1.46%. Japan's Nikkei Stock 225 closed up sharply by +5.24%.
Interest Rates
June 10-year T-notes (ZNM6) today are up by +2 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield is down -0.6 bp to 4.311%. June T-notes climbed to a 1.5-week high today, and the 10-year T-note yield fell to a 1.5-week low of 4.257%. T-notes are moving higher today as WTI crude oil is down more than -2%, easing inflation expectations. Also, optimism that a resolution to the Iran war will lead to lower energy prices, allowing the Fed to cut interest rates, is supporting T-note prices.
However, T-notes gave up most of their gains on stronger-than-expected US ADP, retail sales, and ISM manufacturing reports. Also, hawkish comments today from St. Louis Fed President Alberto Musalem undercut T-note prices when he said, "I expect the current setting of the policy rate will remain appropriate for some time."
European government bond yields are moving lower today. The 10-year German bund yield dropped to a 2-week low of 2.931% and is down -0.5 bp to 2.999%. The 10-year UK gilt yield fell to a 2-week low of 4.777% and is down -6.5 bp to 4.851%.
The Eurozone Mar S&P manufacturing PMI was revised upward by +0.2 to 51.6 from the previously reported 51.4, the strongest pace of expansion in 3.75 years.
The Eurozone Feb unemployment rate unexpectedly rose +0.1 to 6.2%, showing a weaker labor market than expectations of no change at 6.1%.
Swaps are discounting a 49% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at its next policy meeting on April 30.
US Stock Movers
Chip makers and AI-infrastructure stocks are climbing today and lifting the overall market. Western Digital (WDC) is up more than +11% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100, and Intel (INTC) and Sandisk (SNDK) are up more than +9%. Also, Micron Technology (MU) is up more than +8%, and Seagate Technology Holdings Plc (STX) is up more than 7%. In addition, Marvell Technology (MRVL) is up more than +6%, and Applied Materials (AMAT) and ASML Holding NV (ASML) are up more than +4%. Finally, ARM Holdings Plc (ARM), KLA Corp (KLAC), Lam Research (LRCX), and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) are up more than +3%.
Mining stocks are rallying today with gold and silver prices climbing to 2-week highs. Newmont Corp (NEM) and Anglogold Ashanti (AU) are up more than +5%, and Freeport McMoRan (FCX) and Coeur Mining (CDE) are up more than +4%. Also, Southern Copper (SCCO), Hecla Mining (HL), and Barrick Mining (B) are up more than +3%.
Airline stocks are moving higher today, as crude oil prices are down by more than -2% in hopes that an end to the Iran war is near. United Airlines Holdings (UAL) and Alaska Air Group (ALK) are up more than +4%. Also, American Airlines Group (AAL) is up more than +3%, and Delta Air Lines (DAL) and Southwest Airlines (LUV) are up more than +2%.
Optoelectronic companies are rallying today. Lumentum Holdings (LITE) is up more than +10%, and Applied Optoelectronics (AAOI) is up more than +9%. Also, Coherent (COHR) is up more than +7%, Corning (GLW) is up more than +5%, and Credo Technology Group Holding Ltd (CRDO) is up more than +2%.
Energy producers and energy service providers are under pressure today with WTI crude oil down by more than -2%. Exxon Mobil (XOM), Devon Energy (DVN), Chevron (CVX), and Occidental Petroleum (OXY) are down more than -4%. Also, Diamondback Energy (FANG), Phillips 66 (PSX), APA Corp (APA), ConocoPhillips (COP), Marathon Petroleum (MPC), and Valero Energy (VLO) are down more than -3%.
Target Hospitality (TH) is up more than +37% after securing a multi-year contract worth over $550 million to construct and provide hospitality services for a data center development in Texas.
nCino (NCNO) is up more than +9% after forecasting 2027 subscription revenue of $569 million to $573 million, better than the consensus of $568.5 million.
Boeing (BA) is up more than +5% to lead gainers in the Dow Jones Industrials after Wells Fargo Securities initiated coverage on the stock with an overweight rating and a price target of $250.
Oric Pharmaceuticals (ORIC) is down more than -27% after announcing an update on its rinzimetostat program that JPMorgan Chase said was too small a sample and a short follow-up that makes it unreasonable to expect clear efficacy differentiation at this stage.
RH (RH) is down more than -22% after forecasting 2027 revenue to be down -2% to -4%, much weaker than the consensus of an +8.1% increase.
Nike (NKE) is down more than -13% to lead losers in the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrials after forecasting Q4 revenue to be down -2% to -4% and saying its turnaround efforts are taking longer than originally planned.
MSC Industrial Direct (MSM) is down more than -1% after reporting Q2 net sales of $917.8 million, weaker than the consensus of $931.5 million.
Earnings Reports(4/1/2026)
Conagra Brands Inc (CAG), Lamb Weston Holdings Inc (LW), MSC Industrial Direct Co Inc (MSM).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Stocks Climb on War-End Optimism

For Immediate Release
Chicago, IL – April 1, 2026 – Stocks in this week’s article are Smithfield Foods, Inc. SFD, Chord Energy Corp. CHRD, Eni E and Occidental Petroleum OXY.
4 Stocks Trading Near 52-Week High with More Upside Potential
Investors generally consider a stock's 52-week high a good criterion for an entry or exit point. Stocks touching new 52-week highs are often predisposed to profit-taking, resulting in pullbacks and trend reversals.
Moreover, given the high price, investors often wonder if the stock is overpriced. While the speculation is not completely baseless, not all stocks hitting a 52-week high are necessarily overpriced.
Investors might lose out on top gainers in an attempt to avoid the steep prices.
Stocks such as Smithfield Foods, Inc., Chord Energy Corp., Eni andOccidental Petroleum are expected to maintain their momentum and keep scaling new highs. More information on a stock is necessary to determine whether there is scope for further upside.
Here, we discuss a strategy to find the right stocks. The technique borrows from the basics of momentum investing and bets on “buy high, sell higher.”
52-Week High: A Good Indicator
Many times, stocks that hit a 52-week high fail to scale higher despite having potential. This is because investors fear that the stocks are overvalued and expect the price to crash.
Overvaluation is natural for most of these stocks as investors’ focus (or willingness to pay the premium) has helped them reach this level. But that does not always indicate an impending decline. Factors such as robust sales, surging profit levels, earnings growth prospects and strategic acquisitions, which encouraged investors to bet on these stocks, could keep them motivated if there are no tangible negatives. In other words, the momentum might continue.
Also, when a string of positive developments dominates the market, investors find their underreaction unwarranted, even if there are no company-specific driving forces.
Here are our four picks out of the five stocks that made it through the screen:
Smithfield Foods’ full-year 2025 sales reached a record $15.5 billion, up 9.8%, while adjusted operating profit surged 30.5% to $1.34 billion — the second consecutive record year. Adjusted operating margin expanded to 8.6%, with Packaged Meats sustaining profitability above $1 billion for four straight years. In February 2026, Smithfield unveiled a $1.3 billion investment to build a highly automated processing facility in Sioux Falls, SD, targeting long-term efficiency gains.
The pending Nathan's Famous acquisition, set to be closed in first-half 2026, deepens the branded portfolio and will be immediately EPS-accretive with approximately $9 million in annual synergies. A net debt-to-EBITDA of 0.3x and a 25% dividend increase to $1.25 per share reinforce strong financial discipline.
This stock has returned 15.8% in the past six months. It has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 15.28%, on average. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for SFD’s fiscal 2026 earnings has moved north by 11.8% to $2.74 per share over the past 30 days.
Chord Energy Corp. entered 2026 on strong fundamental footing. Its February 2026 earnings release confirmed that 2025 free cash flow and volumes exceeded expectations, with CapEx more than $100 million below prior-year pro-forma levels. Efficiency initiatives generated approximately $160 million in incremental run-rate free cash flow. The completed XTO Williston Basin acquisition added 38 MMBoe of proved reserves and 90 low-breakeven drilling locations, expanding low-cost inventory.
Year-end 2025 proved reserves were 917.5 MMBoe. For 2026, Chord targets 159 MBopd oil production, ~$2.3 billion adjusted EBITDA, and ~$700 million adjusted free cash flow at $1.4 billion capital expenditure. With ~40% of wells planned as 4-mile laterals and a $1.30 quarterly dividend declared in February 2026, the fundamental case is compelling.
This stock has returned 45.6% in the past six-month period. It has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 5.44%, on average. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for CHRD’s 2026 earnings has moved north by 54.6% to $12.03 per share over the past 60 days.
Eni's robust fundamentals and disciplined capital strategy make a strong case for the stock in 2026. Its full-year results confirmed a healthier balance sheet, with gearing declining to 15% and net borrowings at €9.4 billion. At the March 2026 Capital Markets Update, Eni outlined gross capex of €7 billion while confirming production growth aligned with its long-range plan. Plenitude, Eni's renewable arm, targets €1.3 billion EBITDA in 2026, scaling to over €2.5 billion by 2030. The Plenitude-Acea Energia acquisition advances the European customer base to 11 million, ahead of plan. Eni raised its 2026 dividend to €1.10 per share, approximately 5% higher, and announced a €1.5 billion buyback, lifting the payout ratio significantly to 35–45% of cash flow from operations.
This stock has surged 59.1% in the past six-month period. It has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 13.46%, on average. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for E’s 2026 earnings has moved north by 29.1% to $4.97 per share over the past 30 days.
Occidental Petroleum entered 2026 as a leaner, focused oil and gas company. The January 2026 OxyChem divestiture for $9.7 billion reduced principal debt by $5.8 billion to $15.0 billion. Occidental followed through in February 2026 with tender offers targeting $700 million in senior notes, funded by divestiture proceeds. Overwhelming bondholder demand prompted an upsize to $1.2 billion by early March 2026, fully subscribed ahead of the deadline.
Operationally, fourth-quarter 2025 production of 1,481 Mboed surpassed guidance, while an organic reserves replacement ratio of 107% confirms resource depth. For 2026, Occidental targets ~1.45 million boe/d, cutting capex by $550 million and generating $500 million in cost savings. A quarterly dividend hike of over 8% to $0.26 per share caps a compelling reset.
This stock has gained 38.8% in the past six months. It has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 38.74%, on average. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for OXY’s 2026 earnings has moved north by 208% to $2.71 per share over the past 60 days.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Zacks.com featured highlights include Smithfield, Chord, Eni and Occidental Petroleum

Key Points
Bab el-Mandeb is another key oil market chokepoint.
The Houthis have disrupted oil tanker traffic in the region before.
Prolonged closers of two crucial chokepoints could send oil prices even higher and severely impact the global economy.
Most investors had probably never heard about the Strait of Hormuz until earlier this month. However, they've quickly learned of its importance to oil markets and the global economy after Iran effectively blocked ships from leaving the Persian Gulf through this narrow waterway. This blockage has already sent crude prices soaring above $100 a barrel and could cause a severe oil supply shortage the longer it remains blocked.
Unfortunately, it's not the only oil chokepoint that could roil the global energy markets. Bab el-Mandeb, a strait between Yemen on the Arabian Peninsula and the Horn of Africa, could be the next flashpoint that sparks a further surge in crude prices.
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What is Bab el-Mandeb?
Tankers are crucial to the global oil markets. They transport more than 75% of global oil supplies. Some of these oil shipping lanes are quite narrow. For example, the Strait of Hormuz is only about 29 miles wide at its narrowest point and consists of dual two-milewide channels of outbound and inbound shipping lanes. That has made it an easy target for Iran to attack ships, effectively choking off the Strait, which handled 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies before the war.
Bab el-Mandeb is another important oil market chokepoint. It connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea. Last year, about 4.2 million barrels of oil flowed through this strait, often oil heading to Europe via the Suez Canal or the SUMED Pipeline, saving it a trip around Africa.
However, Bab el-Mandeb has become even more important to the oil market following the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Saudi Arabia has partially bypassed that route by ramping up oil volumes on the East-West Pipeline to its full capacity of 7 million barrels per day (330% above the pre-war level). This oil can flow out through the Suez Canal, the SUMED Pipeline, or the Bab el-Mandeb to global markets.
The Houthis join the war
While Bab el-Mandeb is a long way from Iran, it influences the area, having backed the Houthis in Yemen. They've caused issues at Bab el-Mandeb in the past by attacking commercial ships. For example, oil shipments through this chokepoint plunged more than 50% in early 2024 due to the attacks.
The Houthis recently joined the war, launching a missile attack on Israel. They could start attacking vessels in Bab el-Mandeb. That would further disrupt the oil market by limiting Saudi Arabia's ability to export oil via the East-West Pipeline. Analysts fear oil prices could surge to $150-$200+ a barrel if both chokepoints close for prolonged periods.
How this could impact oil stocks
Higher oil prices would benefit oil companies that primarily produce in regions unimpacted by those two major chokepoints. For example, leading U.S. oil and gas producers ConocoPhillips (NYSE: COP) and Occidental Petroleum (NYSE: OXY) have limited exposure to the Persian Gulf.
ConocoPhillips combines its leading low-cost U.S. resource position with operations in Libya, Canada, Norway, and the Asia Pacific region. While the company is a partner with Qatar on three LNG projects, two are still under construction. Meanwhile, the company's other LNG assets in Australia and Equatorial Guinea will benefit from the disruption to global LNG supplies from Qatar. ConocoPhillips estimates that a $1 increase in oil prices will affect its annual cash flows by $20 million to $150 million, depending on the region where it produces oil.
Meanwhile, Occidental Petroleum combines its robust U.S. operations with assets in Algeria, Oman, and the UAE. While the war could affect its operations in the UAE, they're a small part of its global portfolio, as 84% of the company's production is domestic. Occidental also has the potential to ramp up its U.S. drilling activities this year to capitalize on higher oil prices.
Another potential catalyst for crude
While Bab el-Mandeb might not handle as much oil as the Strait of Hormuz, it's another key chokepoint for the oil market. If it also closes to tanker traffic, it will upend Saudi Arabia's partial workaround, further exacerbating the oil supply shock and undoubtedly sending oil prices much higher. That would benefit oil companies that primarily operate outside these key chokepoints, like ConocoPhillips and Occidental. However, it would likely inflict significant damage to the global economy. These factors make Bab el-Mandeb an important area to monitor.
Should you buy stock in ConocoPhillips right now?
Before you buy stock in ConocoPhillips, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and ConocoPhillips wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $501,381!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,012,581!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 880% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 178% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
*Stock Advisor returns as of April 1, 2026.
Matt DiLallo has positions in ConocoPhillips. The Motley Fool recommends ConocoPhillips and Occidental Petroleum. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Occidental Petroleum Corporation

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