U.S. Judge Approves $5.9 Billion Sale of Citgo Shares to Elliott Investment Management
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Updated: Nov 30 2025
0mins
Should l Buy COP?
Source: Newsfilter
- Auction Completion: A U.S. judge has authorized the sale of Citgo's parent company PDV Holding shares for $5.9 billion, marking the near conclusion of a two-year auction aimed at repaying over 15 Venezuela-linked creditors, which is expected to provide significant cash proceeds.
- Debt Settlement: The transaction includes a $2.1 billion payment to holders of defaulted Venezuelan bonds, demonstrating a strong commitment to debt resolution while also presenting a significant investment opportunity for Elliott Investment Management.
- Legal Challenges: Despite objections to Amber Energy's bid, the judge confirmed its fairness, indicating a firm judicial stance in navigating complex debt auctions, which may influence future rulings in similar cases.
- Regulatory Approval: The sale is expected to close next year pending approvals from regulators and the U.S. Treasury Department, a process that will impact Citgo's operations and future strategic direction.
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Analyst Views on COP
Wall Street analysts forecast COP stock price to fall
19 Analyst Rating
15 Buy
3 Hold
1 Sell
Moderate Buy
Current: 117.030
Low
98.00
Averages
115.67
High
133.00
Current: 117.030
Low
98.00
Averages
115.67
High
133.00
About COP
ConocoPhillips is an exploration and production company. Its Alaska segment primarily explores for, produces, transports and markets crude oil, natural gas and NGLs. The Lower 48 segment consists of operations located in the 48 contiguous states in the United States and the Gulf of Mexico. Canadian operations consist of the Surmont oil sands development in Alberta, the liquids-rich Montney unconventional play in British Columbia and commercial operations. The Europe, Middle East and North Africa segment consists of operations principally located in the Norwegian sector of the North Sea, the Norwegian Sea, Qatar, Libya, Equatorial Guinea and commercial and terminalling operations in the United Kingdom. Asia Pacific segment has exploration and production operations in China, Malaysia, Australia and commercial operations in China, Singapore and Japan. Other International segment includes interests in Colombia as well as contingencies associated with prior operations in other countries.
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.
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