Morgan Stanley Keeps Chord Energy (CHRD) Neutral Following Q3 Results

Core Insights - Chord Energy Corporation (NASDAQ:CHRD) is recognized as one of the 14 best up-and-coming dividend stocks to buy [1] - Morgan Stanley has adjusted its price target for Chord Energy to $123 from $128 while maintaining an Equal Weight rating, reflecting revised guidance for 2025 and preliminary expectations for 2026 [2] Financial Performance - In Q3 2025, Chord Energy reported revenue of $1.31 billion, a decrease of 9.5% year-over-year, but surpassed analysts' estimates by $238.4 million [3] - The adjusted free cash flow for the quarter was approximately $230 million, with 69% returned to shareholders [3] - A base dividend of $1.30 per share was paid, and remaining capital was allocated for share repurchases, resulting in an 11% reduction in diluted shares outstanding since the merger with Enerplus [3] Operational Developments - Chord Energy completed the XTO transaction on October 31, which led to an increase in fourth-quarter production guidance by 4,000 barrels of oil per day and an additional $15 million in capital for 2025 to support higher maintenance production levels for 2026 [4] - The company focuses on high-quality, long-lived assets primarily in the Williston Basin [4]