Exxon Mobil expands production amid favorable U.S. policies
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Updated: Feb 06 2026
0mins
Should l Buy XOM?
Source: Benzinga
Exxon Mobil Corp's stock has reached a 52-week high, trading 10.8% above its 20-day simple moving average and 24.4% above its 100-day moving average.
The company is expanding its production footprint in several OPEC-linked nations, with support from the Trump administration facilitating negotiations in Iraq, Libya, and Algeria. This strategic move is expected to enhance Exxon Mobil's competitive advantage, especially following U.S. sanctions on Venezuela, allowing it to capitalize on opportunities that may arise in the region. Additionally, Exxon Mobil's stock has shown a robust upward trend, with a 37.26% increase over the past 12 months, although caution is advised due to potential market corrections indicated by the relative strength index.
This expansion not only strengthens Exxon Mobil's market position but also reflects the company's proactive approach in navigating geopolitical challenges, positioning it favorably against European rivals.
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Analyst Views on XOM
Wall Street analysts forecast XOM stock price to fall
19 Analyst Rating
12 Buy
7 Hold
0 Sell
Moderate Buy
Current: 149.930
Low
114.00
Averages
132.17
High
158.00
Current: 149.930
Low
114.00
Averages
132.17
High
158.00
About XOM
Exxon Mobil Corporation is an energy provider and chemical manufacturer. The Company’s principal business involves exploration for, and production of, crude oil and natural gas; the manufacture, trade, transport and sale of crude oil, natural gas, petroleum products, petrochemicals and a wide variety of specialty products; and pursuit of lower-emission and other new business opportunities, including carbon capture and storage, hydrogen, lower-emission fuels, Proxxima systems, carbon materials, and lithium. Its Upstream segment explores for and produces crude oil and natural gas. The Energy Products, Chemical Products, and Specialty Products segments manufacture and sell petroleum products and petrochemicals. Energy Products segment includes fuels, aromatics, and catalysts and licensing. Chemical Products segment consists of olefins, polyolefins, and intermediates. Specialty Products segment includes finished lubricants, basestocks and waxes, synthetics, and elastomers and resins.
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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- Energy Sector Leadership: The State Street Energy Select Sector SPDR ETF has surged 23% year-to-date, significantly outperforming the S&P 500's 2% increase, reflecting a resurgence of investor confidence in the energy sector and suggesting potential future investment opportunities.
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See More
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- Impact of U.S. Policy: Following the U.S. military's detention of Venezuelan President Maduro on January 3, investors believe that major oil companies like Chevron and ExxonMobil may gain special access to Venezuela's 19.4 billion barrels of oil reserves, potentially driving oil prices higher and enhancing their market positions.
- Escalating Geopolitical Risks: With rising tensions between the U.S. and Iran, particularly the deployment of a carrier group in the region, the market anticipates that any conflict could lead to a temporary spike in global oil prices, further stimulating energy stock performance.
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- Immunity Controversy: The judge stated that Bonta's claim of immunity due to his official duties is unfounded, suggesting he may be held legally accountable for his statements, thereby increasing his risk in public opinion.
- Lawsuit Background: Exxon filed the lawsuit against Bonta in January 2025, accusing him of making false statements while criticizing the company's advanced plastics recycling initiatives, reflecting the company's aggressive stance against environmental critics, which may affect its brand image.
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