Occidental Petroleum: 90% Debt Reduction, Time to Buy?

Occidental Petroleum (OXY) has made significant strides in reducing its debt, achieving 90% of its $4.5 billion target within just two months of closing the CrownRock deal. This remarkable progress, coupled with strong operational performance and strategic asset sales, has investors wondering if now is the time to buy the oil stock. Let's delve into the factors driving Occidental's debt reduction and assess its potential as an investment opportunity.

Occidental's debt reduction strategy has been bolstered by the acquisition of CrownRock, which added 94,000 net Midland Basin acres and production of 170,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day. This deal contributed to Occidental's robust free cash flow, enabling the company to repay $4 billion in debt during the third quarter. The acquisition was even more accretive than expected, with crude averaging $75 per barrel during the period.

In addition to the CrownRock acquisition, Occidental has employed strategic asset sales and divestments to further reduce its debt. The company sold $1.7 billion worth of assets in the third quarter, including a portion of its stake in MLP Western Midstream Partners and some non-core assets in the Permian Basin. These sales, along with strong cash flow and effective cost management, have allowed Occidental to achieve 90% of its debt-reduction target.

While Occidental's debt reduction progress is impressive, investors should remain cognizant of the risks and challenges that lie ahead. The volatile nature of oil prices could impact the company's cash flow and ability to repay debt. Additionally, Occidental's plans to continue selling non-core assets may face challenges if suitable buyers are not found or if market conditions deteriorate. Furthermore, the company's focus on repaying debt may limit its ability to invest in growth opportunities or maintain its dividend.

Despite these potential risks, Occidental's strong operational performance and debt reduction efforts make it an attractive investment opportunity in the oil sector. The company's extensive Delaware basin acreage and cost-cutting potential position it for long-term growth. Occidental can replace reserves at a low cost and is able to leverage existing infrastructure to drive value.

In conclusion, Occidental Petroleum's impressive debt reduction progress, driven by the CrownRock acquisition and strategic asset sales, has made it an attractive investment opportunity in the oil sector. While investors should remain aware of the potential risks and challenges, the company's strong operational performance and commitment to financial health make it a compelling choice for those seeking exposure to the oil and gas industry. As Occidental continues to execute its debt reduction strategy and capitalize on growth opportunities, investors may find that now is the time to buy the oil stock.