Will XOM's Q1 2025 forecast meet market expectations?

**Exxon Mobil's Q1 2025 forecast is likely to meet market expectations** based on the following points:

1. **Analyst Expectations**: The consensus estimate for Exxon Mobil's Q1 2025 earnings per share (EPS) is $1.73, which is the same as the company's internal estimate. This indicates that analysts do not expect any significant deviations from the forecast.

2. **Recent Performance**: Exxon Mobil's recent earnings reports have shown that the company has consistently beaten market expectations. For instance, in the quarter ended March 31, 2024, the company reported an EPS of $1.76, which was slightly above the analyst expectation of $1.73. This track record suggests that the company's management is managing expectations well.
3. **Market Sentiment**: Despite some fluctuations in oil prices, the overall market sentiment towards Exxon Mobil remains positive. Institutional investors have been increasing their stakes in the company, indicating confidence in its performance. This sentiment is further supported by the fact that the average consensus recommendation for the stock is "buy".
4. **Dividend Payments**: Exxon Mobil has a history of paying dividends, which is a positive sign for investors. The company's commitment to returning value to shareholders can help maintain investor confidence and support the stock price.

In conclusion, while there is always some degree of uncertainty in financial forecasting, the fact that Exxon Mobil's internal forecast matches analyst expectations, combined with the company's track record of beating expectations and positive market sentiment, suggests that the Q1 2025 forecast is likely to meet market expectations.