On Monday, Stephens, a financial services firm, adjusted its price target for shares of Occidental Petroleum (NYSE:OXY), reducing it to $76.00 from the previous $77.00. The firm maintained its Overweight rating on the stock despite the change in the price target.
The adjustment followed news that Occidental Petroleum's Midland Basin partner, Ecopetrol, had decided to participate in the CrownRock acquisition. According to Stephens, this move is expected to have a slight dilutive effect on Occidental's cash flow per share (CFPS) estimates for the years 2024 and 2025. However, it is also anticipated to bring a modest improvement to the company's balance sheet.
The participation of Ecopetrol in acquiring a 30% stake in CrownRock led to a reassessment of Occidental Petroleum's net asset value (NAV) per share. The reassessment has been a factor in the decision to lower the target price to $76.00.
The firm's analyst pointed out the dual nature of Ecopetrol's acquisition's impact, stating, "The decision by Midland Basin partner, Ecopetrol, to participate in the CrownRock acquisition is modestly dilutive to our 2024/2025 CFPS estimates and modestly positive for the balance sheet."
The revised stock price target of $76.00 reflects the updated NAV estimate per share following Ecopetrol's involvement in the CrownRock acquisition. The Overweight rating indicates that Stephens continues to view Occidental Petroleum's stock favorably, despite the slight adjustment to their financial projections.
In other recent news, Occidental Petroleum has been the subject of several significant developments. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission is investigating potential collusion between the company's executives and the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries. This follows a similar probe involving the former CEO of Pioneer Natural Resources (NYSE:PXD).
Meanwhile, Occidental is set to finalize its acquisition of CrownRock, a shale oil producer, in August. This strategic move aligns with the company's plans for growth and portfolio optimization.
In connection with this, Colombia's Ecopetrol is in discussions with Occidental about purchasing a stake in CrownRock. This potential acquisition would further strengthen Ecopetrol's position in the energy sector. In addition, Occidental's financial outlook has been adjusted by Stephens, which reduced the stock's price target due to lowered cash flow per share and EBITDA estimates.
Berkshire Hathaway (NYSE:BRKa), led by Warren Buffett, has increased its stake in Occidental to nearly 29%, further demonstrating the company's attractiveness to prominent investors. These developments, along with Occidental's recent record production and cost reductions, indicate a dynamic period for the company.
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