Occidental Petroleum Slides 1.27% to 184th in Volume as Earnings Loom and Profitability Outlook Remains Mixed

On August 4, 2025, Occidental Petroleum (OXY) closed with a 1.27% decline, trading at a volume of $0.56 billion, ranking 184th in market activity. The stock faces downward pressure as it prepares to report second-quarter earnings on August 6, with analysts forecasting a year-over-year revenue drop to $6.48 billion and earnings per share of $0.28, reflecting reduced profitability amid fluctuating commodity prices. Key factors include weaker Midstream segment performance and ongoing cost-cutting efforts, though production gains in the Permian Basin and debt reduction ($6.8 billion in repayments) are seen as potential tailwinds.

Analysts highlight mixed fundamentals: while Permian production is projected to rise to 760–780 thousand barrels of oil equivalent per day, supporting operational resilience, falling oil prices and delayed cargo sales have dampened Midstream earnings. Occidental’s focus on lowering operating expenses and reducing debt is expected to bolster margins. However, the stock’s 11.9% three-month gain lags behind its industry peers, and its EV/EBITDA ratio of 5.15X suggests a valuation premium relative to energy sector averages. Investors are advised to monitor the August 6 earnings release for clarity on near-term guidance.

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