Piper Sandler Lifts Chord Energy (CHRD) Target as War Risk Clouds Global Oil Supply

Core Viewpoint - Chord Energy Corporation (NASDAQ:CHRD) is highlighted as a strong investment opportunity, particularly for passive income, amid geopolitical tensions affecting global oil supply [1][8]. Group 1: Analyst Recommendations - Piper Sandler analyst Mark Lear raised the price target for Chord Energy from $151 to $158, maintaining an Overweight rating, citing risks to about 20% of global oil and gas supply due to the conflict with Iran [2]. - The firm anticipates minimal impact on U.S. operators despite the geopolitical developments [2]. Group 2: Financial Performance - In Q4 2025, Chord Energy returned approximately $6.7 billion to shareholders, with oil production at the high end of guidance and capital spending below expectations, attributed to disciplined cost management [3]. - The company generated around $175 million in adjusted free cash flow during the quarter, exceeding expectations [3]. Group 3: Future Outlook - The 2026 plan aligns with previous guidance, focusing on maintaining stable oil production levels between 157,000 and 161,000 barrels per day, with capital spending projected at about $1.4 billion [4]. - Assuming benchmark prices of $64 per barrel for oil and $3.75 per MMBtu for natural gas, the company expects to generate approximately $700 million in free cash flow in 2026 [5].