I opened my Tiger Brokers app yesterday and noticed a notable surge in Occidental Petroleum (OXY) stock. The stock closed at $42.69, up 3.02% from the previous trading day — a strong move that immediately caught my attention.
Occidental (OXY)
One likely catalyst behind this rally is the recent rise in global oil prices, perhaps fueled by escalating geopolitical tensions in Ukraine and Iran. Concerns over supply disruptions continue to unsettle markets, driving crude prices higher and providing a tailwind for energy stocks like OXY.
Additionally, the latest announcement from OPEC+ regarding a modest production increase of just 411,000 barrels per day in July came in below market expectations. This smaller-than-expected output bump signals that supply constraints may persist, further supporting oil prices. For OXY, a major U.S. oil and gas producer, this could translate into stronger profit margins and cash flow in the near term.
From a valuation standpoint, I’ve long felt that OXY has been undervalued relative to its peers, especially considering its impressive asset base. The company has made significant strides in deleveraging its balance sheet and improving operational efficiency.
Another compelling reason for my optimism is Warren Buffett’s confidence in the company. His conglomerate, Berkshire Hathaway, has been steadily building a large position in OXY, now owning a significant stake. Buffett's track record in the energy sector speaks volumes, and his investment provides an additional layer of validation for long-term investors like me.
Looking ahead, OXY also offers regular dividends, with an upcoming ex-dividend date on June 10, paying $0.24 per share. For income-focused investors, this adds another dimension to the investment thesis.
In summary, with strong fundamentals, supportive macro conditions, strategic investor backing, and regular dividends, OXY is shaping up to be more than just a short-term trade. It’s a stock worth watching — or holding — as the energy sector continues to evolve.
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