Exxon Mobil’s Strategic Gambit: Balancing Fossil Fuel Expansion and Shareholder Returns

As the global energy transition accelerates, Exxon Mobil continues to place massive bets on oil, a strategy that positions the company at a critical juncture. The oil giant contends not only with its reputation as a holdout from the fossil fuel era but also with complex geopolitical legacies. The central question for investors is whether the company’s dual focus on billion-dollar projects and generous shareholder returns can secure its future.

The investment community presents a divided front on Exxon Mobil’s prospects. UBS maintains a ‘Buy’ rating with a price target of $143, underscoring expectations for long-term oil demand extending to 2050. In contrast, Melius Research initiated coverage with a more cautious ‘Hold’ and a target of just $111. Trading at a P/E... Read more...