Chevron earnings beat as production hits record with upside expected in Venezuela

Core Viewpoint - Chevron reported fourth-quarter earnings that exceeded Wall Street estimates, driven by record oil production despite lower crude prices [1][3]. Group 1: Earnings Performance - Chevron's adjusted earnings per share were $1.52, surpassing the consensus estimate of $1.45 [3][5]. - The company's revenue for the quarter was $46.87 billion, slightly below the expected $47.1 billion [5]. Group 2: Production Growth - Chevron achieved a production record of 4.05 million barrels per day in the fourth quarter [3]. - The company is positioned to increase its production in Venezuela by 50% over the next 18 to 24 months following a U.S. military intervention that removed President Nicolas Maduro [2]. Group 3: Competitive Position - Wall Street views Chevron as the U.S. oil company best positioned to benefit from the U.S. intervention in Venezuela, while competitors like ExxonMobil are hesitant to return due to past asset seizures [4].