Investment Opportunities in Energy Stocks Amid Rising Prices
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Updated: May 20 2026
0mins
Source: Fool
- Strong Market Performance: The energy sector has emerged as the best-performing area of the stock market this year, driven by surging energy prices due to the war in Iran, attracting significant investor interest and highlighting the sector's profit potential and market confidence.
- Chevron's Stability: Chevron (CVX) operates in over 180 countries with a daily output exceeding 2 million oil-equivalent barrels, and with less than 5% of its investments in the Middle East, its cash flow remains stable, making it a suitable long-term hold amid current geopolitical uncertainties.
- Enbridge's Competitive Edge: Enbridge (ENB), as a major pipeline owner serving approximately 75% of North America's refineries, boasts a gross margin of 30.95% and a dividend yield of 4.91%, underscoring its significance in a high-barrier market and ensuring long-term profitability.
- ConocoPhillips' Efficiency: ConocoPhillips (COP) focuses solely on crude oil exploration and extraction, known for its lower cost structure and efficient drilling techniques, which, despite its profits being highly tied to oil prices, provide a competitive advantage through scale and efficiency during market fluctuations.
Trade with 70% Backtested Accuracy
Stop guessing "Should I Buy CVX?" and start using high-conviction signals backed by rigorous historical data.
Sign up today to access powerful investing tools and make smarter, data-driven decisions.
Analyst Views on CVX
Wall Street analysts forecast CVX stock price to fall
19 Analyst Rating
15 Buy
4 Hold
0 Sell
Strong Buy
Current: 183.030
Low
158.00
Averages
176.95
High
206.00
Current: 183.030
Low
158.00
Averages
176.95
High
206.00
About CVX
Chevron Corporation is an integrated energy company. The Company produces crude oil and natural gas; manufactures transportation fuels, lubricants, petrochemicals and additives; and develops technologies that enhance its business and industry. The Company’s segments include Upstream and Downstream. Upstream operations consist primarily of exploring for, developing, producing and transporting crude oil and natural gas; liquefaction, transportation and regasification associated with LNG; transporting crude oil by major international oil export pipelines; processing, transporting, storage and marketing of natural gas; carbon capture and storage; and a gas-to-liquids plant. Downstream operations consist primarily of the refining of crude oil into petroleum products; marketing crude oil, refined products, and lubricants; manufacturing and marketing of renewable fuels, and transporting of crude oil and refined products by pipeline, marine vessel, motor equipment and rail car.
About the author
Emily J. Thompson
Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.
Chevron Seeks Approval to Acquire 70% Stake in Greek Offshore Block
- Acquisition Request: Chevron has formally requested approval from the Greek energy ministry to acquire a 70% stake in an offshore block southwest of Greece, which would further expand its operations in the Mediterranean and enhance its market position in the region.
- Operational Role: If approved, Chevron would become the operator and lead the gas exploration in Block 2 in the Ionian Sea, with Helleniq Energy retaining a 30% stake, which currently holds 100% of the concession rights, indicating a significant shift in operational control.
- Data Evaluation Extension: The Greek government is considering granting Chevron and Helleniq more time to evaluate completed seismic data, which will influence their decision on exploratory drilling, reflecting the government's emphasis on foreign investment participation.
- Partnership Dynamics: Chevron and Helleniq are partners in several offshore exploration blocks, having recently signed lease agreements for four offshore blocks south of Crete and the Peloponnese, demonstrating a deepening collaboration in the Greek market.
See More
Market Faces Uncertainty; Investors Should Exercise Caution
- High Market Valuation: The S&P 500 index's current P/E ratio stands at 27.5, significantly above the historical average of 19, indicating that the market may not be fully accounting for potential summer economic pressures, prompting investors to approach with caution regarding possible corrections.
- Rising Energy Prices: Geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East have sharply increased energy prices, with oil executives warning that the market is neglecting energy fundamentals, suggesting it may take months for markets to normalize, which could further elevate global inflation and recession fears.
- Berkshire's Cash Reserves: Berkshire Hathaway reported nearly $400 billion in cash at the end of Q1 2026, reflecting a cautious stance amid high market valuations, potentially providing a safety margin for conservative investors.
- Coca-Cola Investment Opportunity: Coca-Cola's P/E ratio is below its five-year average, and while not cheap, its 2.6% dividend yield offers investors a reliable cash flow, making it an attractive option for those seeking safety in a potential bear market.
See More
Cautious Investors Should Heed Market Highs
- Valuation Warning: The S&P 500's current P/E ratio of 27.5x significantly exceeds the historical average of 19x, indicating that the market may not be fully accounting for potential summer economic headwinds, suggesting cautious investors should remain vigilant against possible corrections.
- Rising Energy Prices: Geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East have sharply increased energy prices, with oil executives warning that Wall Street is overlooking the fundamentals of the energy sector, which may take months to normalize, exacerbating global inflation and recession concerns.
- Cash Reserve Strategy: Berkshire Hathaway's nearly $400 billion cash position at the end of Q1 2026 highlights the necessity of conservative investment strategies in uncertain market conditions, especially as the S&P 500 hovers near all-time highs.
- Coca-Cola Investment Opportunity: While Coca-Cola's P/E ratio is below its five-year average and offers a 2.6% above-market dividend yield, analysts suggest that in the current market environment, investors should be cautious and consider other potential high-return stocks.
See More
Chevron CEO Urges Venezuela to Lower Taxes for Investment
- Investment Climate Call: Chevron CEO Mike Wirth stated that Venezuela needs to lower oil taxes and royalties to attract new investments, as the current tax burden makes it difficult for investors to achieve reasonable returns.
- Debt Repayment Outlook: Wirth mentioned that Chevron is currently only investing its earnings in Venezuela and expects to fully repay its debt to the state-owned oil company PDVSA within a year, indicating cautious optimism for the future.
- Negotiation Progress: American oil giants Chevron, Exxon Mobil, and ConocoPhillips are in discussions with Venezuelan officials regarding terms under the new oil and gas laws, with Wirth expecting specific information on corporate income tax and royalties to be disclosed soon.
- Production Plan Adjustment: Chevron plans to increase oil production in Venezuela by 50% over the next two years, but will not commit additional capital until more clarity on the regulatory environment is provided, reflecting uncertainty in the investment landscape.
See More
Energy Stocks Decline as Nextpower Acquires Battery Firm
- Energy Sector Decline: Energy stocks fell for the fourth consecutive day after President Trump indicated a potential deal to end the U.S.-Iran conflict, with OneOK leading the S&P 500 energy sector down over 3%, reflecting market concerns about the industry's outlook.
- Nextpower Acquisition: Nextpower's stock surged 13% following its announcement of acquiring battery storage company Prevalon Energy for approximately $365 million, while also raising its full-year revenue guidance, indicating its strategic expansion in the renewable energy sector.
- Dell Technologies Surge: Dell Technologies' shares jumped 29% after raising its full-year guidance, projecting adjusted earnings of $17.90 per share and revenue between $165 billion and $169 billion, significantly exceeding analyst expectations, showcasing strong market demand recovery.
- American Eagle's Poor Performance: American Eagle Outfitters' shares dropped 13% as comparable sales at its American Eagle banner fell 2% in Q1, with second-quarter guidance disappointing analysts, highlighting the sales pressure and intensified competition it faces.
See More
Chevron Appoints New General Counsel
- Executive Transition: Chevron announced the retirement of current General Counsel R. Hewitt Pate in mid-2027, appointing Scott A. Keller as the new General Counsel, who will officially join on July 1 and is expected to take over Pate's role on January 1, 2027, ensuring continuity and stability in legal affairs.
- Legal Expertise: Keller brings extensive legal experience, having served as Solicitor General of Texas and argued over ten cases at both the U.S. Supreme Court and Texas Supreme Court, showcasing his exceptional capability in complex legal matters, which is expected to enhance Chevron's legal support.
- Pate's Contributions: Under Pate's leadership, Chevron successfully navigated several significant legal challenges, including the international arbitration related to the Hess Corporation and a multibillion-dollar lawsuit in Ecuador, demonstrating his crucial role in shaping the company's legal strategy, which Keller will continue.
- Strategic Direction: Chevron is committed to maintaining competitiveness in the global energy market, and Keller's appointment not only emphasizes the importance of legal affairs but also reflects the company's strategic focus on legal compliance and risk management in a complex business environment.
See More
Chevron Seeks Approval to Acquire 70% Stake in Greek Offshore Block
- Acquisition Request: Chevron has formally requested approval from the Greek energy ministry to acquire a 70% stake in an offshore block southwest of Greece, which would further expand its operations in the Mediterranean and enhance its market position in the region.
- Operational Role: If approved, Chevron would become the operator and lead the gas exploration in Block 2 in the Ionian Sea, with Helleniq Energy retaining a 30% stake, which currently holds 100% of the concession rights, indicating a significant shift in operational control.
- Data Evaluation Extension: The Greek government is considering granting Chevron and Helleniq more time to evaluate completed seismic data, which will influence their decision on exploratory drilling, reflecting the government's emphasis on foreign investment participation.
- Partnership Dynamics: Chevron and Helleniq are partners in several offshore exploration blocks, having recently signed lease agreements for four offshore blocks south of Crete and the Peloponnese, demonstrating a deepening collaboration in the Greek market.
See More
Market Faces Uncertainty; Investors Should Exercise Caution
- High Market Valuation: The S&P 500 index's current P/E ratio stands at 27.5, significantly above the historical average of 19, indicating that the market may not be fully accounting for potential summer economic pressures, prompting investors to approach with caution regarding possible corrections.
- Rising Energy Prices: Geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East have sharply increased energy prices, with oil executives warning that the market is neglecting energy fundamentals, suggesting it may take months for markets to normalize, which could further elevate global inflation and recession fears.
- Berkshire's Cash Reserves: Berkshire Hathaway reported nearly $400 billion in cash at the end of Q1 2026, reflecting a cautious stance amid high market valuations, potentially providing a safety margin for conservative investors.
- Coca-Cola Investment Opportunity: Coca-Cola's P/E ratio is below its five-year average, and while not cheap, its 2.6% dividend yield offers investors a reliable cash flow, making it an attractive option for those seeking safety in a potential bear market.
See More
Cautious Investors Should Heed Market Highs
- Valuation Warning: The S&P 500's current P/E ratio of 27.5x significantly exceeds the historical average of 19x, indicating that the market may not be fully accounting for potential summer economic headwinds, suggesting cautious investors should remain vigilant against possible corrections.
- Rising Energy Prices: Geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East have sharply increased energy prices, with oil executives warning that Wall Street is overlooking the fundamentals of the energy sector, which may take months to normalize, exacerbating global inflation and recession concerns.
- Cash Reserve Strategy: Berkshire Hathaway's nearly $400 billion cash position at the end of Q1 2026 highlights the necessity of conservative investment strategies in uncertain market conditions, especially as the S&P 500 hovers near all-time highs.
- Coca-Cola Investment Opportunity: While Coca-Cola's P/E ratio is below its five-year average and offers a 2.6% above-market dividend yield, analysts suggest that in the current market environment, investors should be cautious and consider other potential high-return stocks.
See More
Chevron CEO Urges Venezuela to Lower Taxes for Investment
- Investment Climate Call: Chevron CEO Mike Wirth stated that Venezuela needs to lower oil taxes and royalties to attract new investments, as the current tax burden makes it difficult for investors to achieve reasonable returns.
- Debt Repayment Outlook: Wirth mentioned that Chevron is currently only investing its earnings in Venezuela and expects to fully repay its debt to the state-owned oil company PDVSA within a year, indicating cautious optimism for the future.
- Negotiation Progress: American oil giants Chevron, Exxon Mobil, and ConocoPhillips are in discussions with Venezuelan officials regarding terms under the new oil and gas laws, with Wirth expecting specific information on corporate income tax and royalties to be disclosed soon.
- Production Plan Adjustment: Chevron plans to increase oil production in Venezuela by 50% over the next two years, but will not commit additional capital until more clarity on the regulatory environment is provided, reflecting uncertainty in the investment landscape.
See More
Energy Stocks Decline as Nextpower Acquires Battery Firm
- Energy Sector Decline: Energy stocks fell for the fourth consecutive day after President Trump indicated a potential deal to end the U.S.-Iran conflict, with OneOK leading the S&P 500 energy sector down over 3%, reflecting market concerns about the industry's outlook.
- Nextpower Acquisition: Nextpower's stock surged 13% following its announcement of acquiring battery storage company Prevalon Energy for approximately $365 million, while also raising its full-year revenue guidance, indicating its strategic expansion in the renewable energy sector.
- Dell Technologies Surge: Dell Technologies' shares jumped 29% after raising its full-year guidance, projecting adjusted earnings of $17.90 per share and revenue between $165 billion and $169 billion, significantly exceeding analyst expectations, showcasing strong market demand recovery.
- American Eagle's Poor Performance: American Eagle Outfitters' shares dropped 13% as comparable sales at its American Eagle banner fell 2% in Q1, with second-quarter guidance disappointing analysts, highlighting the sales pressure and intensified competition it faces.
See More
Chevron Appoints New General Counsel
- Executive Transition: Chevron announced the retirement of current General Counsel R. Hewitt Pate in mid-2027, appointing Scott A. Keller as the new General Counsel, who will officially join on July 1 and is expected to take over Pate's role on January 1, 2027, ensuring continuity and stability in legal affairs.
- Legal Expertise: Keller brings extensive legal experience, having served as Solicitor General of Texas and argued over ten cases at both the U.S. Supreme Court and Texas Supreme Court, showcasing his exceptional capability in complex legal matters, which is expected to enhance Chevron's legal support.
- Pate's Contributions: Under Pate's leadership, Chevron successfully navigated several significant legal challenges, including the international arbitration related to the Hess Corporation and a multibillion-dollar lawsuit in Ecuador, demonstrating his crucial role in shaping the company's legal strategy, which Keller will continue.
- Strategic Direction: Chevron is committed to maintaining competitiveness in the global energy market, and Keller's appointment not only emphasizes the importance of legal affairs but also reflects the company's strategic focus on legal compliance and risk management in a complex business environment.
See More
