Why ExxonMobil Stock Soared 10.6% in Q1 While the S&P 500 Had Its Worst Quarter Since 2022

Core Insights - ExxonMobil's stock is considered a buy due to its potential cash flow and dividend growth despite broader market challenges [1][2] Financial Performance - In 2024, ExxonMobil generated $55 billion in cash from operations and nearly $31 billion in free cash flow, with a net income of $33.7 billion [4] - The company increased its dividend for the 42nd consecutive year, demonstrating strong financial health [2][4] - ExxonMobil's earnings fell approximately 6% in 2024 due to a $2 billion impairment in California, but it saved $2.7 billion in costs and anticipates saving nearly $6 billion more through 2030 [4][7] Production and Growth Plans - Following the acquisition of Pioneer Natural Resources for $60 billion, ExxonMobil's production in the Permian Basin and Guyana reached record highs in 2024 [3] - The company has laid out plans to significantly grow its earnings and cash flows through 2030 [2][4] Market Resilience - Despite a 4.6% drop in the S&P 500 in Q1 2025, ExxonMobil's shares returned 10.6% during the same period, indicating resilience in a challenging market [1][5] - The stock's gains in Q1 were primarily observed in the latter half of March, coinciding with a rebound in crude oil prices [5] Future Outlook - ExxonMobil expects to deliver an additional $20 billion in earnings through 2030 at a Brent crude oil price of $65 per barrel [7] - Preliminary numbers for Q1 suggest potential sequential earnings growth, with an estimated increase of up to $900 million from its upstream business [8]