Valero Energy's $0.27 Billion Trading Volume Ranks 430th as Raymond James Raises Price Target to $170 Amid Chevron Partnership Potential

On August 7, 2025, Valero Energy (VLO) closed at $132.60, down 0.65% with a trading volume of $0.27 billion, ranking 430th in market activity. The stock traded between $132.12 and $135.00, reflecting a 152.14% five-year return but a -7.64% annual performance. Analyst Raymond James maintained a "Strong Buy" rating, adjusting its price target to $170, while Chevron’s renewed Venezuela crude access could bolster Valero’s refining operations. Institutional ownership remains steady, though Raiffeisen Bank International AG reduced its stake by 73% in Q1.

Recent institutional activity includes Kestra Private Wealth Services and Sendero Wealth Management increasing holdings, while Applied Finance Capital Management and AlTi Global Inc. added to their positions in Q4. Despite a 15% revenue decline in Q2 2025, Valero reported $2.28 earnings per share, exceeding estimates. The company’s renewable diesel segment posted a $79 million operating loss, highlighting sector challenges. Analysts note Valero’s stronger refining margins and long-term U.S. industry positioning, though short-term volatility persists due to macroeconomic uncertainties.

The strategy of purchasing the top 500 stocks by daily trading volume and holding for one day yielded a 166.71% return from 2022 to the present, outperforming the benchmark by 137.53%. This underscores the potential of liquidity-driven approaches in volatile markets, though risks remain tied to market conditions and investor behavior.