WTI crude crossing $103 has Permian producers sprinting past a slumping broader market, but the real question is whether Middle East tensions can keep oil in triple digits long enough to matter for Devon, Diamondback, and Occidental shareholders.
A fresh climb in crude is pushing Permian oil producers well ahead of the rest of the stock market. Devon Energy (NYSE:DVN | DVN Price Prediction) stock is up 5% to $51.64 in afternoon trading. That gain shows how directly the producer’s cash flow tracks the price of a barrel. Meanwhile, Diamondback Energy (NASDAQ:FANG) stock is rising 5% to $206.70, keeping pace with Devon stock.
Shares of Devon and Diamondback are outpacing the broader energy group. The SPDR S&P Oil & Gas Exploration & Production ETF (NYSEARCA:XOP) is up 3% to $203.48, a smaller advance. The SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust (NYSEARCA:SPY) is down 0.3% to $762.06, leaving oil producers on the winning side of a split market.
Iran Strike Worries Push Crude Into Triple Digits
Oil prices are climbing as Middle East risks persist, with concerns about renewed U.S. strikes on Iran adding a premium to every barrel. The West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil price is up 3.56% over the past 24 hours to $103.01 per barrel. Crude oil’s climb has turned into a broad bid for U.S. upstream producers, with Devon and Diamondback shares among the biggest beneficiaries.
Spot crude broke through on October 15 with a jump to $104.71, then peaked at $110.01 on October 19. Diamondback’s management has tied the background to the Strait of Hormuz disruption, which it described as the largest supply shock in global oil market history. Rebuilding depleted global inventories, management argued, has structurally raised the floor for oil prices.
Permian Pure-Plays Outrun the Energy Fund
Devon enters this rally with extra leverage. Its Q2 2026 oil realizations averaged $88.09 per barrel while WTI averaged $92.47, and the latest spot reading sits well above that benchmark. Management’s Q3 2026 guidance calls for oil production of 550,000 to 560,000 barrels per day as the Coterra merger contributes a full quarter of combined results.
Diamondback is a Permian pure-play, with its drilling concentrated in the Midland Basin of West Texas. Kaes Van’t Hof was Diamondback’s chief executive then. On its Q2 call, he linked the oil outlook to depleted global inventories, stating “that gives us confidence that there’s a longer-term bid for oil to refill those inventories and meet global demand.” That view biases the company toward growing production, which increases its leverage to a higher crude price.
Fellow oil producer Occidental Petroleum (NYSE:OXY) pairs its Permian core with assets in the Rockies, the Gulf of America, and the Middle East. Richard Jackson was Occidental’s chief executive then. On its August 6 call, he stated, “At higher prices, we have opportunities to add further value, both for the business and our shareholders.” OXY shares are up 3% to $64.61.
Oil’s volatility cuts both ways for Devon and Diamondback. WTI crude oil slipped to $85.23 on September 25, a reminder that triple-digit oil can retreat quickly. Service-cost inflation adds pressure, with Diamondback’s management expecting higher casing prices through the rest of 2026 and into 2027 as the Permian rig count grows.
Oil Producers Need Crude to Hold Its Gains
What comes next for Devon and Diamondback stock is whether crude holds above $100 while Middle East tensions linger. A retreat in the oil price could close the gap with the XOP exploration and production fund as quickly as it opened. Gasoline offers a consumer-side read, with the national average falling to $4.28 per gallon as of October 19 even as crude oil rallied.
Devon’s initial 2027 outlook, which management said would arrive in November, could show whether the combined company can turn higher prices into faster buybacks. Remaining buyback authorization at Devon stood at $7.8 billion after Q2, giving the company room to act on that plan.
Oil’s sharp swings this fall argue for investors keeping their new money in Devon and Diamondback shares measured, even with the rally intact. DVN, FANG, and OXY hareholders can leave room to add to their positions once the path of oil prices resolves.
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Integrated Advisors Network LLC raised its holdings in shares of Diamondback Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: FANG) by 156.3% during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 5,447 shares of the oil and natural gas company's stock after
Diamondback Energy (FANG - Free Report) ended the recent trading session at $197.14, demonstrating a -1.89% change from the preceding day's closing price. This change lagged the S&P 500's daily loss of 1.21%. Meanwhile, the Dow gained 0.02%, and the Nasdaq, a tech-heavy index, lost 2.6%.
Shares of the energy exploration and production company have appreciated by 8.23% over the course of the past month, underperforming the Oils-Energy sector's gain of 8.71%, and outperforming the S&P 500's loss of 0.03%.
Market participants will be closely following the financial results of Diamondback Energy in its upcoming release. The company plans to announce its earnings on November 2, 2026. The company's upcoming EPS is projected at $4.8, signifying a 55.84% increase compared to the same quarter of the previous year. Simultaneously, our latest consensus estimate expects the revenue to be $4.29 billion, showing a 9.45% escalation compared to the year-ago quarter.
Looking at the full year, the Zacks Consensus Estimates suggest analysts are expecting earnings of $21.04 per share and revenue of $18.99 billion. These totals would mark changes of +57.37% and +26.38%, respectively, from last year.
It's also important for investors to be aware of any recent modifications to analyst estimates for Diamondback Energy. Such recent modifications usually signify the changing landscape of near-term business trends. Hence, positive alterations in estimates signify analyst optimism regarding the business and profitability.
Based on our research, we believe these estimate revisions are directly related to near-term stock moves. To benefit from this, we have developed the Zacks Rank, a proprietary model which takes these estimate changes into account and provides an actionable rating system.
The Zacks Rank system, which ranges from #1 (Strong Buy) to #5 (Strong Sell), has an impressive outside-audited track record of outperformance, with #1 stocks generating an average annual return of +25% since 1988. The Zacks Consensus EPS estimate has moved 3.51% higher within the past month. Diamondback Energy is holding a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy) right now.
Investors should also note Diamondback Energy's current valuation metrics, including its Forward P/E ratio of 9.55. This expresses no noticeable deviation compared to the average Forward P/E of 9.55 of its industry.
The Oil and Gas - Exploration and Production - United States industry is part of the Oils-Energy sector. Currently, this industry holds a Zacks Industry Rank of 30, positioning it in the top 13% of all 250+ industries.
The strength of our individual industry groups is measured by the Zacks Industry Rank, which is calculated based on the average Zacks Rank of the individual stocks within these groups. Our research shows that the top 50% rated industries outperform the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1.
Don't forget to use Zacks.com to keep track of all these stock-moving metrics, and others, in the upcoming trading sessions.
Key Takeaways Chevron's production grew 20% year over year, while record U.S. refinery throughput adds diversification.Diamondback generated $2.3 billion in free cash flow and raised its 2026 oil production guidance.APA exceeded U.S. oil production guidance and generated $738 million in free cash flow in Q2 2026. Crude oil prices have climbed amid geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and concerns about global supply disruptions. Higher oil prices can support revenues, earnings and cash flow for exploration and production companies. However, the benefits depend on production volumes, operating costs, hedging strategies and capital spending.
The U.S. Energy Information Administration, in its October 2026 Short-Term Energy Outlook, projected that Brent crude oil prices would average $105 per barrel in the fourth quarter of 2026. The forecast reflects ongoing supply concerns and uncertainty about how quickly disrupted oil supplies could recover. However, a slowdown in global demand or an improvement in supply conditions could put pressure on crude prices.
Against this backdrop, investors may want to monitor Chevron Corporation (CVX - Free Report) , Diamondback Energy, Inc. (FANG - Free Report) and APA Corporation (APA - Free Report) . Their production profiles, operating strategies and financial performance offer different ways to evaluate the potential benefits of higher oil prices.
Higher Oil Prices Could Support Energy EarningsOil producers generally benefit when crude prices rise, provided production volumes remain stable and costs do not rise at the same pace. Stronger realized prices can improve operating cash flow and free cash flow, allowing companies to reduce debt, fund capital expenditures and return more cash to shareholders.
However, higher oil prices do not guarantee stronger earnings for every energy company. Hedging contracts may limit the immediate benefit, while rising drilling expenses, service costs and production taxes can reduce margins. Investors should therefore consider each company's operational performance and financial discipline alongside the direction of crude prices.
Chevron: Integrated Operations Offer Diversified Oil ExposureChevron is an integrated energy company with operations spanning oil and natural gas production, refining, chemicals and marketing. The company’s upstream business provides direct exposure to crude oil prices, while its downstream operations offer additional earnings sources but may face pressure from higher crude input costs.
Chevron reported second-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings of $12 billion, or $6.06 per share. Worldwide production increased 20% year over year, supported largely by contributions from legacy Hess assets and growth in the Permian Basin and Gulf of America. The company also achieved record U.S. refinery crude throughput of 1.07 million barrels per day.
Higher oil prices could support Chevron's upstream earnings and cash flow, particularly if production growth continues. Its integrated business model also provides diversification across the energy value chain. Nevertheless, changes in refining margins, operating costs and commodity prices across its businesses could influence overall profitability.
Investors should monitor production growth, capital expenditures, debt reduction and shareholder returns to determine whether favorable oil prices translate into sustainable financial gains. The Zacks Consensus Estimate projects Chevron's earnings to grow 142.94% year over year in 2026. CVX currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can seethe complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Diamondback: Permian Production Could Boost Cash FlowDiamondback is an independent oil and natural gas producer focused primarily on the Permian Basin. Its concentrated exposure to this major U.S. oil-producing region makes crude oil prices an important driver of revenues and cash flow.
In the second quarter of 2026, Diamondback reported average oil production of 525,000 barrels per day. It also registered total production of more than 1 million barrels of oil equivalent per day. The company generated $3.6 billion in operating cash flow and $2.3 billion in free cash flow. FANG also raised the full-year 2026 oil production guidance to at least 522,000 barrels per day while maintaining its cash capital expenditure outlook at approximately $3.9 billion.
Higher oil prices could strengthen Diamondback's realized pricing and cash generation if production levels and operating costs remain favorable. Its substantial Permian production base provides meaningful exposure to changes in crude prices. However, investors should also consider drilling costs, production taxes, capital requirements and hedging arrangements when assessing the potential earnings impact. The Zacks Consensus Estimate projects Diamondback's earnings to grow 57.37% year over year in 2026. FANG carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) at present.
APA: Higher Oil Prices Could Support Earnings GrowthAPA Corporation is an independent exploration and production company with operations in the United States and internationally. Its oil production exposure makes realized crude prices an important factor influencing revenues, operating cash flow and free cash flow.
APA reported second-quarter 2026 net income of $747 million, or $2.11 per diluted share. Adjusted earnings were $669 million, or $1.89 per diluted share. U.S. oil production averaged 123,500 barrels per day, exceeding the company's guidance. APA Corporation also generated $1.7 billion in operating cash flow and $738 million in free cash flow during the quarter.
Higher crude oil prices could support APA's realized prices and cash flow, assuming production and cost trends remain favorable. The company also raised its full-year U.S. oil production guidance to 123,000 barrels per day while maintaining its U.S. capital spending outlook at $1.3 billion.
Investors should monitor production trends, international operating conditions, capital requirements and debt reduction. These factors will help determine whether higher oil prices translate into stronger financial flexibility and sustainable shareholder returns. The Zacks Consensus Estimate projects APA Corporation's earnings to grow 61.80% year over year in 2026. APA currently holds a Zacks Rank #2.
ConclusionHigher crude oil prices could create opportunities for energy investors, with Chevron, Diamondback and APA Corporation offering distinct investment characteristics. Chevron's integrated operations provide diversified exposure to the energy value chain, while Diamondback and APA Corporation offer more direct exposure to oil production.
Investors can monitor earnings prospects, cash flow generation, operational execution and capital allocation to assess each company's potential for sustained financial performance. These factors, together with company valuations and developments in the crude oil market, can help investors evaluate the opportunities offered by these three energy stocks.
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Zacks Premium also includes the Zacks Style Scores.
What are the Zacks Style Scores? The Zacks Style Scores is a unique set of guidelines that rates stocks based on three popular investing types, and were developed as complementary indicators for the Zacks Rank. This combination helps investors choose securities with the highest chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.
Each stock is given an alphabetic rating of A, B, C, D or F based on their value, growth, and momentum qualities. With this system, an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on, meaning the better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform.
The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:
Value ScoreFinding good stocks at good prices, and discovering which companies are trading under their true value, are what value investors like to focus on. So, the Value Style Score takes into account ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and a host of other multiples to highlight the most attractive and discounted stocks.
Growth ScoreGrowth investors, on the other hand, are more concerned with a company's financial strength and health, and its future outlook. The Growth Style Score examines things like projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow to find stocks that will experience sustainable growth over time.
Momentum ScoreMomentum trading is all about taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook, and these investors live by the saying "the trend is your friend." The Momentum Style Score can pinpoint good times to build a position in a stock, using factors like one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates.
VGM ScoreWhat if you like to use all three types of investing? The VGM Score is a combination of all Style Scores, making it one of the most comprehensive indicators to use with the Zacks Rank. It rates each stock on their combined weighted styles, which helps narrow down the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum.
How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank A proprietary stock-rating model, the Zacks Rank utilizes the power of earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings outlook, to help investors create a successful portfolio.
#1 (Strong Buy) stocks have produced an unmatched +23.82% average annual return since 1988, which is more than double the S&P 500's performance over the same time frame. However, the Zacks Rank examines a ton of stocks, and there can be more than 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, and another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.
This totals more than 800 top-rated stocks, and it can be overwhelming to try and pick the best stocks for you and your portfolio.
That's where the Style Scores come in.
To maximize your returns, you want to buy stocks with the highest probability of success. This means picking stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B. If you find yourself looking at stocks with a #3 (Hold) rank, make sure they have Scores of A or B as well to ensure as much upside potential as possible.
As mentioned above, the Scores are designed to work with the Zacks Rank, so any change to a company's earnings outlook should be a deciding factor when picking which stocks to buy.
For instance, a stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, even one that boasts Scores of A and B, still has a downward-trending earnings forecast, and a much greater likelihood its share price will decline as well.
Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.
Stock to Watch: Diamondback Energy (FANG - Free Report) Founded in 2007, Midland, TX-headquartered Diamondback Energy, Inc. is an independent oil and gas exploration and production company with its primary focus on the Permian Basin, where it has approximately 902,005 net acres. Its activities are concentrated in the Wolfcamp, Spraberry and Bone Spring formations.
FANG is a #2 (Buy) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of A.
Additionally, the company could be a top pick for growth investors. FANG has a Growth Style Score of A, forecasting year-over-year earnings growth of 57.4% for the current fiscal year.
Five analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days for fiscal 2026. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $1.13 to $21.04 per share. FANG boasts an average earnings surprise of +7.1%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Growth and VGM Style Scores, FANG should be on investors' short list.
Momentum investing is all about the idea of following a stock's recent trend, which can be in either direction. In the "long context," investors will essentially be "buying high, but hoping to sell even higher." And for investors following this methodology, taking advantage of trends in a stock's price is key; once a stock establishes a course, it is more than likely to continue moving in that direction. The goal is that once a stock heads down a fixed path, it will lead to timely and profitable trades.
Even though momentum is a popular stock characteristic, it can be tough to define. Debate surrounding which are the best and worst metrics to focus on is lengthy, but the Zacks Momentum Style Score, part of the Zacks Style Scores, helps address this issue for us.
Below, we take a look at Diamondback Energy (FANG - Free Report) , a company that currently holds a Momentum Style Score of A. We also talk about price change and earnings estimate revisions, two of the main aspects of the Momentum Style Score.
It's also important to note that Style Scores work as a complement to the Zacks Rank, our stock rating system that has an impressive track record of outperformance. Diamondback Energy currently has a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy). Our research shows that stocks rated Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) and #2 (Buy) and Style Scores of "A or B" outperform the market over the following one-month period.
You can see the current list of Zacks #1 Rank Stocks here >>>
Set to Beat the Market?Let's discuss some of the components of the Momentum Style Score for FANG that show why this energy exploration and production company shows promise as a solid momentum pick.
Looking at a stock's short-term price activity is a great way to gauge if it has momentum, since this can reflect both the current interest in a stock and if buyers or sellers have the upper hand at the moment. It's also helpful to compare a security to its industry; this can show investors the best companies in a particular area.
For FANG, shares are up 6.15% over the past week while the Zacks Oil and Gas - Exploration and Production - United States industry is up 1.98% over the same time period. Shares are looking quite well from a longer time frame too, as the monthly price change of 7.32% compares favorably with the industry's 4.48% performance as well.
While any stock can see its price increase, it takes a real winner to consistently beat the market. That is why looking at longer term price metrics -- such as performance over the past three months or year -- can be useful as well. Over the past quarter, shares of Diamondback Energy have risen 3.74%, and are up 43.86% in the last year. In comparison, the S&P 500 has only moved 3.41% and 16.58%, respectively.
Investors should also take note of FANG's average 20-day trading volume. Volume is a useful item in many ways, and the 20-day average establishes a good price-to-volume baseline; a rising stock with above average volume is generally a bullish sign, whereas a declining stock on above average volume is typically bearish. Right now FANG is averaging 2,305,580 shares for the last 20 days..
Earnings OutlookThe Zacks Momentum Style Score encompasses many things, including estimate revisions and a stock's price movement. Investors should note that earnings estimates are also significant to the Zacks Rank, and a nice path here can be promising. We have recently been noticing this with FANG.
Over the past two months, 5 earnings estimates moved higher compared to 1 lower for the full year. These revisions helped boost FANG's consensus estimate, increasing from $19.91 to $21.07 in the past 60 days. Looking at the next fiscal year, 5 estimates have moved upwards while there have been 1 downward revision in the same time period.
Bottom LineGiven these factors, it shouldn't be surprising that FANG is a #2 (Buy) stock and boasts a Momentum Score of A. If you're looking for a fresh pick that's set to soar in the near-term, make sure to keep Diamondback Energy on your short list.
Diamondback Energy (FANG - Free Report) appears an attractive pick given a noticeable improvement in the company's earnings outlook. The stock has been a strong performer lately, and the momentum might continue with analysts still raising their earnings estimates for the company.
The upward trend in estimate revisions for this energy exploration and production company reflects growing optimism of analysts on its earnings prospects, which should get reflected in its stock price. After all, empirical research shows a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and near-term stock price movements. This insight is at the core of our stock rating tool -- the Zacks Rank.
The five-grade Zacks Rank system, which ranges from a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) to a Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell), has an impressive externally-audited track record of outperformance, with Zacks #1 Ranked stocks generating an average annual return of +25% since 2008.
Consensus earnings estimates for the next quarter and full year have moved considerably higher for Diamondback Energy, as there has been strong agreement among the covering analysts in raising estimates.
The chart below shows the evolution of forward 12-month Zacks Consensus EPS estimate:
12 Month EPS
Current-Quarter Estimate RevisionsFor the current quarter, the company is expected to earn $4.71 per share, which is a change of +52.9% from the year-ago reported number.
Over the last 30 days, four estimates have moved higher for Diamondback while one has gone lower. As a result, the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased 17.61%.
Current-Year Estimate RevisionsFor the full year, the earnings estimate of $21.07 per share represents a change of +57.6% from the year-ago number.
The revisions trend for the current year also appears quite promising for Diamondback, with five estimates moving higher over the past month compared to one negative revision. The consensus estimate has also received a boost over this time frame, increasing 5.64%.
Favorable Zacks RankThanks to promising estimate revisions, Diamondback currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). The Zacks Rank is a tried-and-tested rating tool that helps investors effectively harness the power of earnings estimate revisions and make the right investment decision.
You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Our research shows that stocks with Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) and 2 (Buy) significantly outperform the S&P 500.
Bottom LineInvestors have been betting on Diamondback because of its solid estimate revisions, as evident from the stock's 6% gain over the past four weeks. As its earnings growth prospects might push the stock higher, you may consider adding it to your portfolio right away.
Diamondback Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:FANG) shares gained more than 4% on Friday. The shares are nearing a resistance level. This could cap the price. It’s why Diamondback is the Stock of the Day.
Many old Wall Street sayings and adages are based on market principles. They are not myths.
‘Sell at former tops’ is one of them.
As the chart shows, the last six times Diamondback reached the $210 level, it hit resistance and reversed. If the shares reach this price again, the same thing may happen.
Buyer’s remorse can keep resistance intact for a long time.
When the stock reversed off resistance in early May, many people who bought shares around $210 regretted it. Some held onto their losing positions.
They also decided that, if they could, they would exit their positions at breakeven. When the shares rallied back to $210 in mid-May, they placed sell orders. These orders created resistance.
Then a similar dynamic occurred. When Diamondback rallied back to $210 in early June, remorseful buyers placed sell orders, creating resistance again.
The same thing occurred three more times when the shares returned to $210.
Now the shares are approaching this level again. There is a good chance resistance will appear there.
Stocks tend to sell off after they reach resistance levels. This happens when some of the sellers who created it become anxious and impatient.
They start to worry that someone else will sell their shares at a lower price. They don’t want to miss the trade, so they lower their offers. Other concerned sellers see this and do the same.
The result is a snowball effect that forces prices lower.
Some old expressions make sense. Diamondback’s chart illustrates how selling at former tops can be a good idea.
Image: Shutterstock
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Cyndeo Wealth Partners LLC lowered its position in Diamondback Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:FANG – Free Report) by 81.5% during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 1,742 shares of the oil and natural gas company’s stock after selling 7,696 shares during the period. Cyndeo Wealth Partners LLC’s holdings in Diamondback Energy were worth $320,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.
Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. V Square Quantitative Management LLC grew its holdings in Diamondback Energy by 11.2% in the third quarter. V Square Quantitative Management LLC now owns 2,651 shares of the oil and natural gas company’s stock valued at $487,000 after purchasing an additional 267 shares during the period. Comprehensive Financial Consultants Institutional Inc. grew its stake in shares of Diamondback Energy by 1.2% during the 3rd quarter. Comprehensive Financial Consultants Institutional Inc. now owns 16,288 shares of the oil and natural gas company’s stock valued at $2,994,000 after buying an additional 196 shares during the period. Assenagon Asset Management S.A. grew its stake in shares of Diamondback Energy by 126.3% during the 3rd quarter. Assenagon Asset Management S.A. now owns 626,847 shares of the oil and natural gas company’s stock valued at $115,221,000 after buying an additional 349,801 shares during the period. Summit Financial Wealth Advisors LLC grew its stake in shares of Diamondback Energy by 8.1% during the 3rd quarter. Summit Financial Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 2,167 shares of the oil and natural gas company’s stock valued at $398,000 after buying an additional 163 shares during the period. Finally, State of Alaska Department of Revenue increased its holdings in shares of Diamondback Energy by 1.8% during the 3rd quarter. State of Alaska Department of Revenue now owns 19,367 shares of the oil and natural gas company’s stock worth $3,559,000 after buying an additional 348 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 90.01% of the company’s stock.
Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of analysts have recently issued reports on FANG shares. Barclays decreased their target price on Diamondback Energy from $232.00 to $221.00 and set an “overweight” rating for the company in a report on Monday, August 17th. Scotiabank initiated coverage on shares of Diamondback Energy in a research report on Wednesday. They set a “sector outperform” rating and a $250.00 price target on the stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price objective on shares of Diamondback Energy from $211.00 to $233.00 in a research note on Wednesday, August 5th. Stifel Nicolaus initiated coverage on shares of Diamondback Energy in a research note on Thursday, September 10th. They issued a “buy” rating and a $259.00 target price on the stock. Finally, Susquehanna increased their price target on Diamondback Energy from $255.00 to $265.00 in a report on Wednesday, August 5th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, twenty-four have assigned a Buy rating and five have issued a Hold rating to the company’s stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” and an average price target of $226.71.
Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on FANG Diamondback Energy Stock Performance FANG opened at $203.95 on Monday. The firm’s 50 day moving average is $197.24 and its 200-day moving average is $194.19. Diamondback Energy, Inc. has a 52-week low of $137.03 and a 52-week high of $216.90. The company has a quick ratio of 0.45, a current ratio of 0.47 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.25. The firm has a market capitalization of $57.11 billion, a P/E ratio of 39.76 and a beta of 0.55.
Diamondback Energy (NASDAQ:FANG – Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Monday, August 3rd. The oil and natural gas company reported $6.48 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $6.08 by $0.40. Diamondback Energy had a net margin of 8.58% and a return on equity of 10.10%. The business had revenue of $5.56 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.89 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $2.38 earnings per share. The business’s quarterly revenue was up 51.2% compared to the same quarter last year. Analysts expect that Diamondback Energy, Inc. will post 21.07 EPS for the current fiscal year.
Diamondback Energy Announces Dividend The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, August 20th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, August 13th were paid a dividend of $1.10 per share. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, August 13th. This represents a $4.40 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.2%. Diamondback Energy’s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 85.77%.
Insider Activity In related news, Director Charles Meloy sold 33,333 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Monday, October 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $183.74, for a total value of $6,124,605.42. Following the completion of the transaction, the director owned 759,864 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $139,617,411.36. This represents a 4.20% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. The transaction was executed under a pre-arranged Rule 10b5-1 trading plan. Also, Director Travis D. Stice sold 75,000 shares of the firm’s stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, September 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $204.31, for a total value of $15,323,250.00. Following the sale, the director owned 49,727 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $10,159,723.37. This trade represents a 60.13% decrease in their position. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Insiders have sold 141,666 shares of company stock valued at $28,061,456 over the last 90 days. Insiders own 0.64% of the company’s stock.
Diamondback Energy Company Profile (Free Report)
Diamondback Energy, Inc is an independent oil and natural gas company engaged in the acquisition, development, exploration and exploitation of unconventional, onshore oil and natural gas reserves. The company’s operations are concentrated in the Permian Basin of West Texas and southeastern New Mexico, particularly the Midland and Delaware Basins.
Diamondback produces crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids from horizontal wells and related infrastructure. Its activities include drilling and completing wells, operating gathering and processing assets, and managing midstream services that support production.
Read More Five stocks we like better than Diamondback Energy These 3 Green Stocks Have a Growth Story That Goes Far Beyond Washington Meta Claims Frontier-Class AI Status With New Muse Wonder Models Berkshire Just Backed This Little-Known Stock—Should You Chase It? Broadcom’s CEO Sees Years of AI Demand But Warns of a Bigger Threat to the Boom Want to see what other hedge funds are holding FANG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Diamondback Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:FANG – Free Report).
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Earnings are arguably the most important single number on a company's quarterly financial report. Wall Street clearly dives into all of the other metrics and management's input, but the EPS figure helps cut through all the noise.
We know earnings results are vital, but how a company performs compared to bottom line expectations can be even more important when it comes to stock prices, especially in the near-term. This means that investors might want to take advantage of these earnings surprises.
The ability to identify stocks that are likely to top quarterly earnings expectations can be profitable, but it's no simple task. Here at Zacks, our Earnings ESP filter helps make things easier.
The Zacks Earnings ESP, ExplainedThe Zacks Expected Surprise Prediction, or ESP, works by locking in on the most up-to-date analyst earnings revisions because they can be more accurate than estimates from weeks or even months before the actual release date. The thinking is pretty straightforward: analysts who provide earnings estimates closer to the report are likely to have more information.
Now that we understand the basic idea, let's look at how the Expected Surprise Prediction works. The ESP is calculated by comparing the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate, with the percentage difference between the two giving us the Zacks ESP figure.
In fact, when we combined a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) or better and a positive Earnings ESP, stocks produced a positive surprise 70% of the time. Perhaps most importantly, using these parameters has helped produce 28.3% annual returns on average, according to our 10 year backtest.
Stocks with a ranking of #3 (Hold), or 60% of all stocks covered by the Zacks Rank, are expected to perform in-line with the broader market. Stocks with rankings of #2 (Buy) and #1 (Strong Buy), or the top 15% and top 5% of stocks, respectively, should outperform the market; Strong Buy stocks should outperform more than any other rank.
Should You Consider Diamondback Energy?Now that we understand what the ESP is and how beneficial it can be, let's dive into a stock that currently fits the bill. Diamondback Energy (FANG - Free Report) earns a #3 (Hold) right now and its Most Accurate Estimate sits at $5.09 a share, just 17 days from its upcoming earnings release on November 2, 2026.
Diamondback Energy's Earnings ESP sits at +7.90%, which, as explained above, is calculated by taking the percentage difference between the $5.09 Most Accurate Estimate and the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $4.71. FANG is also part of a large group of stocks that boast a positive ESP. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported.
FANG is just one of a large group of Oils and Energy stocks with a positive ESP figure. Cheniere Energy (LNG - Free Report) is another qualifying stock you may want to consider.
Cheniere Energy, which is readying to report earnings on October 29, 2026, sits at a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) right now. Its Most Accurate Estimate is currently $5.34 a share, and LNG is 13 days out from its next earnings report.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Cheniere Energy is $4.10, and when you take the percentage difference between that number and its Most Accurate Estimate, you get the Earnings ESP figure of +30.19%.
FANG and LNG's positive ESP metrics may signal that a positive earnings surprise for both stocks is on the horizon.
Find Stocks to Buy or Sell Before They're ReportedUse the Zacks Earnings ESP Filter to turn up stocks with the highest probability of positively, or negatively, surprising to buy or sell before they're reported for profitable earnings season trading. Check it out here >>
For new and old investors, taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals. Zacks Premium provides lots of different ways to do both.
Featuring daily updates of the Zacks Rank and Zacks Industry Rank, full access to the Zacks #1 Rank List, Equity Research reports, and Premium stock screens, the research service can help you become a smarter, more self-assured investor.
Zacks Premium also includes the Zacks Style Scores.
What are the Zacks Style Scores? Developed alongside the Zacks Rank, the Zacks Style Scores are a group of complementary indicators that help investors pick stocks with the best chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.
Each stock is assigned a rating of A, B, C, D, or F based on their value, growth, and momentum characteristics. Just like in school, an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on -- that means the better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform.
The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:
Value ScoreValue investors love finding good stocks at good prices, especially before the broader market catches on to a stock's true value. Utilizing ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and many other multiples, the Value Style Score identifies the most attractive and most discounted stocks.
Growth ScoreWhile good value is important, growth investors are more focused on a company's financial strength and health, and its future outlook. The Growth Style Score takes projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow into account to uncover stocks that will see long-term, sustainable growth.
Momentum ScoreMomentum investors, who live by the saying "the trend is your friend," are most interested in taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook. Utilizing one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates, among other factors, the Momentum Style Score can help determine favorable times to buy high-momentum stocks.
VGM ScoreIf you want a combination of all three Style Scores, then the VGM Score will be your friend. It rates each stock on their combined weighted styles, helping you find the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum. It's also one of the best indicators to use with the Zacks Rank.
How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank The Zacks Rank, which is a proprietary stock-rating model, employs earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings expectations, to make building a winning portfolio easier.
#1 (Strong Buy) stocks have produced an unmatched +23.82% average annual return since 1988, which is more than double the S&P 500's performance over the same time frame. However, the Zacks Rank examines a ton of stocks, and there can be more than 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, and another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.
With more than 800 top-rated stocks to choose from, it can certainly feel overwhelming to pick the ones that are right for you and your investing journey.
That's where the Style Scores come in.
To have the best chance of big returns, you'll want to always consider stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B, which will give you the highest probability of success. If you're looking at stocks with a #3 (Hold) rank, it's important they have Scores of A or B as well to ensure as much upside potential as possible.
Since the Scores were created to work together with the Zacks Rank, the direction of a stock's earnings estimate revisions should be a key factor when choosing which stocks to buy.
Here's an example: a stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, even one with Style Scores of A and B, still has a downward-trending earnings outlook, and a bigger chance its share price will decrease too.
Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.
Stock to Watch: Diamondback Energy (FANG - Free Report) Founded in 2007, Midland, TX-headquartered Diamondback Energy, Inc. is an independent oil and gas exploration and production company with its primary focus on the Permian Basin, where it has approximately 902,005 net acres. Its activities are concentrated in the Wolfcamp, Spraberry and Bone Spring formations.
FANG is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of A.
Momentum investors should take note of this Oils-Energy stock. FANG has a Momentum Style Score of A, and shares are up 1.5% over the past four weeks.
Three analysts revised their earnings estimate higher in the last 60 days for fiscal 2026, while the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $1.22 to $20.41 per share. FANG also boasts an average earnings surprise of +7.1%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Momentum and VGM Style Scores, FANG should be on investors' short list.
Diamondback Energy (FANG - Free Report) closed the most recent trading day at $198.18, moving +1.57% from the previous trading session. The stock outperformed the S&P 500, which registered a daily loss of 0.02%. Meanwhile, the Dow experienced a drop of 0.35%, and the technology-dominated Nasdaq saw a decrease of 0.15%.
Shares of the energy exploration and production company have depreciated by 5.16% over the course of the past month, underperforming the Oils-Energy sector's gain of 3.04%, and the S&P 500's gain of 2.05%.
Market participants will be closely following the financial results of Diamondback Energy in its upcoming release. The company plans to announce its earnings on November 2, 2026. The company is forecasted to report an EPS of $4.47, showcasing a 45.13% upward movement from the corresponding quarter of the prior year. Simultaneously, our latest consensus estimate expects the revenue to be $4.18 billion, showing a 6.46% escalation compared to the year-ago quarter.
Regarding the entire year, the Zacks Consensus Estimates forecast earnings of $20.41 per share and revenue of $18.8 billion, indicating changes of +52.66% and +25.14%, respectively, compared to the previous year.
It's also important for investors to be aware of any recent modifications to analyst estimates for Diamondback Energy. Recent revisions tend to reflect the latest near-term business trends. With this in mind, we can consider positive estimate revisions a sign of optimism about the business outlook.
Based on our research, we believe these estimate revisions are directly related to near-term stock moves. To take advantage of this, we've established the Zacks Rank, an exclusive model that considers these estimated changes and delivers an operational rating system.
Ranging from #1 (Strong Buy) to #5 (Strong Sell), the Zacks Rank system has a proven, outside-audited track record of outperformance, with #1 stocks returning an average of +25% annually since 1988. Over the past month, the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate has moved 2.32% higher. Diamondback Energy is currently a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
With respect to valuation, Diamondback Energy is currently being traded at a Forward P/E ratio of 9.56. This expresses no noticeable deviation compared to the average Forward P/E of 9.56 of its industry.
The Oil and Gas - Exploration and Production - United States industry is part of the Oils-Energy sector. This group has a Zacks Industry Rank of 60, putting it in the top 25% of all 250+ industries.
The strength of our individual industry groups is measured by the Zacks Industry Rank, which is calculated based on the average Zacks Rank of the individual stocks within these groups. Our research shows that the top 50% rated industries outperform the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1.
Remember to apply Zacks.com to follow these and more stock-moving metrics during the upcoming trading sessions.
If you are looking for a stock that has a solid history of beating earnings estimates and is in a good position to maintain the trend in its next quarterly report, you should consider Diamondback Energy (FANG - Free Report) . This company, which is in the Zacks Oil and Gas - Exploration and Production - United States industry, shows potential for another earnings beat.
When looking at the last two reports, this energy exploration and production company has recorded a strong streak of surpassing earnings estimates. The company has topped estimates by 13.94%, on average, in the last two quarters.
For the most recent quarter, Diamondback was expected to post earnings of $5.96 per share, but it reported $6.48 per share instead, representing a surprise of 8.72%. For the previous quarter, the consensus estimate was $3.55 per share, while it actually produced $4.23 per share, a surprise of 19.15%.
Price and EPS Surprise
Thanks in part to this history, there has been a favorable change in earnings estimates for Diamondback lately. In fact, the Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction) for the stock is positive, which is a great indicator of an earnings beat, particularly when combined with its solid Zacks Rank.
Our research shows that stocks with the combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) or better produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time. In other words, if you have 10 stocks with this combination, the number of stocks that beat the consensus estimate could be as high as seven.
The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a version of the Zacks Consensus whose definition is related to change. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier.
Diamondback currently has an Earnings ESP of +5.40%, which suggests that analysts have recently become bullish on the company's earnings prospects. This positive Earnings ESP when combined with the stock's Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) indicates that another beat is possibly around the corner. We expect the company's next earnings report to be released on November 2, 2026.
When the Earnings ESP comes up negative, investors should note that this will reduce the predictive power of the metric. But, a negative value is not indicative of a stock's earnings miss.
Many companies end up beating the consensus EPS estimate, but that may not be the sole basis for their stocks moving higher. On the other hand, some stocks may hold their ground even if they end up missing the consensus estimate.
Because of this, it's really important to check a company's Earnings ESP ahead of its quarterly release to increase the odds of success. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported.
What happened Diamondback Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: FANG) said third-quarter 2026 derivatives are expected to show a $97 million cash-settlement loss. Unhedged oil averaged $87.30 a barrel.
The company also reported hedged oil at $85.89 a barrel, natural gas at $0.90 per Mcf, and NGLs at $20.02 a barrel. Natural gas liquids were $20.02 a barrel in both the unhedged and hedged tables.
Diamondback said net non-cash derivative losses are expected to be $85 million. Basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding were 279,959 thousand each. The report was filed October 8, 2026 and covers the quarter ended September 30, 2026. Key numbers Metric Latest Change Source Unhedged oil price $87.30 per barrel SEC 8-K Hedged oil price $85.89 per barrel SEC 8-K Natural gas price $1.12 per Mcf SEC 8-K Net loss on cash settlements for derivative instruments $97 million SEC 8-K Net non-cash loss on derivative instruments $85 million SEC 8-K Read more: Diamondback Energy (FANG) stock analysis and investment case
Why it matters OptimistFi's case is that Diamondback works if its concentrated Permian acreage remains a low-cost cash machine and 2025's earnings compression proves cyclical rather than evidence that the inventory economics have deteriorated. This filing is mixed for that view because it shows strong realized prices, but it also adds a $97 million cash-settlement loss and an $85 million non-cash loss on derivatives.
OptimistFi's comparison shows unhedged oil averaged $1.41 a barrel more than hedged oil in the quarter. That points to a modest hedge drag on that benchmark.
The filing still shows high absolute realized prices for oil, natural gas and NGLs, so the expected derivative losses could prove temporary. The release is a pricing and hedging snapshot, so investors can use it as a near-term read on how the quarter landed.
Browse: stock research on every company OptimistFi covers
What's next Diamondback's next quarterly report is the next dated test in the filing's timeline. If the next update shows narrower derivative losses and similar realized prices, that would support the view that the drag is temporary.
If realized prices weaken or derivative losses widen, the quarter would look less like an isolated hedge issue. Until then, this filing mainly sets a baseline for comparing the next report with the quarter ended September 30, 2026. Investors can compare the next report against the October 8 figures for oil, gas, NGLs, and derivative losses. That will show whether this quarter's hedge drag was a one-off or a pattern.
More from OptimistFi FANG stock: the Diamondback Energy thesis, its status and the next test to watch Dividendology Explains Hess Midstream LP (NYSE: HESM)'s EBITDA Reset Viatris Inc. (NASDAQ: VTRS) Buys Pacira for $1.65 Billion Richardson Electronics, Ltd. (NASDAQ: RELL) Margin Gains Need Context Stock research on every company OptimistFi covers Latest stock research and investment-case updates OptimistFi: evidence-first equity research Sources SEC 8-K — Diamondback Energy, Inc. current report filed October 8, 2026. Read the full OptimistFi thesis on Diamondback Energy, Inc.: https://optimistfi.com/stocks/FANG
See what would break the Diamondback Energy, Inc. thesis and track it live on the OptimistFi Thesis-Break Engine.
Browse every company OptimistFi covers at optimistfi.com/stocks, or read the latest evidence-first research.
The full Diamondback Energy, Inc. investment case, its status and the next test to watch live on the Diamondback Energy, Inc. thesis page.
Originally published on OptimistFi, evidence-first equity research. More at optimistfi.com.
It doesn't matter your age or experience: taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals for all investors. Luckily, Zacks Premium offers several different ways to do both.
The research service features daily updates of the Zacks Rank and Zacks Industry Rank, full access to the Zacks #1 Rank List, Equity Research reports, and Premium stock screens, all of which will help you become a smarter, more confident investor.
It also includes access to the Zacks Style Scores.
What are the Zacks Style Scores? The Zacks Style Scores is a unique set of guidelines that rates stocks based on three popular investing types, and were developed as complementary indicators for the Zacks Rank. This combination helps investors choose securities with the highest chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.
Based on their value, growth, and momentum characteristics, each stock is assigned a rating of A, B, C, D, or F. The better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform; an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on.
The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:
Value ScoreValue investors love finding good stocks at good prices, especially before the broader market catches on to a stock's true value. Utilizing ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and many other multiples, the Value Style Score identifies the most attractive and most discounted stocks.
Growth ScoreGrowth investors, on the other hand, are more concerned with a company's financial strength and health, and its future outlook. The Growth Style Score examines things like projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow to find stocks that will experience sustainable growth over time.
Momentum ScoreMomentum trading is all about taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook, and these investors live by the saying "the trend is your friend." The Momentum Style Score can pinpoint good times to build a position in a stock, using factors like one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates.
VGM ScoreWhat if you like to use all three types of investing? The VGM Score is a combination of all Style Scores, making it one of the most comprehensive indicators to use with the Zacks Rank. It rates each stock on their combined weighted styles, which helps narrow down the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum.
How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank A proprietary stock-rating model, the Zacks Rank utilizes the power of earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings outlook, to help investors create a successful portfolio.
#1 (Strong Buy) stocks have produced an unmatched +23.86% average annual return since 1988, which is more than double the S&P 500's performance over the same time frame. However, the Zacks Rank examines a ton of stocks, and there can be more than 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, and another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.
This totals more than 800 top-rated stocks, and it can be overwhelming to try and pick the best stocks for you and your portfolio.
That's where the Style Scores come in.
You want to make sure you're buying stocks with the highest likelihood of success, and to do that, you'll need to pick stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B. If you like a stock that only has a #3 (Hold) rank, it should also have Scores of A or B to guarantee as much upside potential as possible.
Since the Scores were created to work together with the Zacks Rank, the direction of a stock's earnings estimate revisions should be a key factor when choosing which stocks to buy.
For instance, a stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, even one that boasts Scores of A and B, still has a downward-trending earnings forecast, and a much greater likelihood its share price will decline as well.
Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.
Stock to Watch: Diamondback Energy (FANG - Free Report) Founded in 2007, Midland, TX-headquartered Diamondback Energy, Inc. is an independent oil and gas exploration and production company with its primary focus on the Permian Basin, where it has approximately 902,005 net acres. Its activities are concentrated in the Wolfcamp, Spraberry and Bone Spring formations.
FANG is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of A.
Additionally, the company could be a top pick for growth investors. FANG has a Growth Style Score of A, forecasting year-over-year earnings growth of 52.1% for the current fiscal year.
Six analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days for fiscal 2026. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $1.93 to $20.33 per share. FANG boasts an average earnings surprise of +7.1%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Growth and VGM Style Scores, FANG should be on investors' short list.
Key Takeaways FANG could benefit as oil above $90 supports Permian exploration and production activity.XOM has strengthened its Permian position through Pioneer and lightweight proppant technology.CVX has expanded Permian production while lowering capital spending through advanced drilling techniques. Oil prices have been making newspaper headlines, as the Middle East conflict has pushed commodity prices higher and kept them elevated. Although the tensions have made the stock market highly uncertain, energy stocks have retained their appeal. Diamondback Energy, Inc. (FANG - Free Report) , ExxonMobil Holdings Corporation (XOM - Free Report) and Chevron Corporation (CVX - Free Report) are some players that are likely to gain amid this backdrop.
High Oil Price: Sweet Spot for Permian Producers?West Texas Intermediate (“WTI”) crude is hovering around $90 per barrel. The high prices are being driven by ongoing tensions in the Middle East. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (“EIA”) in its latest short-term energy outlook projected WTI at $84.65 per barrel for this year, higher than $65.40 last year. A highly favorable pricing environment for the commodity is likely to continue supporting exploration and production activities.
In this regard, the upstream players that are operating in the Permian, the most prolific basin in the United States, are likely to continue gaining from the ongoing strength in oil prices. In the outlook, EIA estimated that total crude oil production in the Permian would be 6.76 million barrels per day this year, higher than 6.57 million barrels per day last year.
Thus, with high prices of the commodity, production will likely increase in the most prolific basin, aiding the bottom lines of explorers and producers operating in the basin.
3 Permian Players in the SpotlightDiamondback Energy is a well-known pure-play Permian player. In the prolific basin, FANG has a huge and high-quality drilling site, with the company estimating it at roughly 8,854 gross locations. The upstream energy major mentioned that those wells are economical even if the price of oil fell to $50 per barrel. Thus, with premium drilling inventories and an investment-grade balance sheet, Diamondback Energy, carrying a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), is likely to capitalize on the ongoing strength of oil prices.
ExxonMobil has a strong footprint in the Permian and is among the key assets that the energy major believes will contribute to its long-term production growth. In the Permian, the integrated giant has been employing lightweight proppant technology and hence has been capable of boosting its well recoveries. With the acquisition of Pioneer Natural Resources in 2024, XOM enhanced its footprint in the basin, further strengthening its production outlook while realizing significant cost synergies. Thus, XOM, with a Zacks Rank of 3, is well-positioned to gain. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Chevron also has a strong footprint in the Permian. CVX stated that it has an interest in one of every five wells in the most prolific basin. Over the years, while growing its operations in the Permian, Zacks #3 Ranked CVX has been able to generate more production while using lower capital spending, thanks to advanced drilling techniques. Thus, like XOM and FANG, CVX is also strongly placed now.
MIDLAND, Texas, Sept. 30, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Diamondback Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: FANG) (“Diamondback”), today announced that it plans to release third quarter 2026 financial results on November 2, 2026 after the market closes.
In connection with the earnings release, Diamondback will host a conference call and webcast for investors and analysts to discuss its results for the third quarter of 2026 on Tuesday, November 3, 2026 at 8:00 a.m. CT. Access to the live webcast, and replay which will be available following the call, may be found here. The live webcast of the earnings conference call will also be available via Diamondback’s website at www.diamondbackenergy.com under the “Investor Relations” section of the site.
About Diamondback Energy, Inc.
Diamondback is an independent oil and natural gas company headquartered in Midland, Texas focused on the acquisition, development, exploration and exploitation of unconventional, onshore oil and natural gas reserves in the Permian Basin in West Texas. For more information, please visit www.diamondbackenergy.com.
Oil prices slipped back below $100 this week, and Diamondback Energy NASDAQ: FANG shareholders felt every bit of it. The Permian Basin producer now trades about 11% below its September high. The sharpest blow came on Sept. 16, when FANG fell roughly 8% in one session.
Diamondback Energy Today
FANG
Diamondback Energy
$187.58 -1.43 (-0.76%)
As of 11:47 AM Eastern
This is a fair market value price provided by Massive. Learn more.
$137.03▼
$216.902.35%
36.56
$226.33
The prevailing sentiment is that cooling crude means cooling oil stocks. Investors are treating a resolution between the United States and Iran as the end of the energy trade. But that's not the entire story.
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Brent crude is still in the high $90s, and West Texas Intermediate sits near $90. The forces supporting high oil prices don't disappear when the Iran headlines fade.
The Middle East supply gap is measured in weeks and months, not days. And oil demand is also tied to the AI infrastructure buildout. There's also a broader wave of grid, construction, and manufacturing projects that rely on diesel, asphalt, and petrochemicals.
Together, those factors point to a higher floor for oil. That doesn't guarantee $100 crude every day. But it does mean the dips may be shallower than the market fears. For investors, Diamondback Energy's sell-off looks more like an opportunity than a warning.
What Actually Took a Bite Out of FANGThe Sept. 16 drop had less to do with oil than it appeared. Three things simultaneously hit the stock.
Morgan Stanley cut FANG to Equal Weight, arguing the shares had run ahead of fundamentals.
An investment vehicle tied to Endeavor's founding Stephens family sold more than 9 million shares, a block worth roughly $1.9 billion.
The Fed's rate decision that afternoon pushed money out of energy.
None of those factors changes how many barrels Diamondback produces or what it earns on them. A block sale is a supply-of-shares event, and it's temporary by design.
Wall Street seemed to agree. Within days, Raymond James raised its target to $255, and UBS lifted its target to $253. It's also important to note that FANG trades at about a 20% discount to its consensus price target of $226.33.
Earnings Tell the Real StoryDiamondback's Q2 2026 earnings report shows a business firing on all cylinders. Earnings came in at $6.48 per share, topping estimates by 40 cents. A year earlier, that figure was $2.38. Revenue jumped 51% to $5.56 billion, beating forecasts by about $675 million.
Management also raised 2026 production by roughly 3% to 4% and cut net debt by $1.6 billion. CEO Kaes Van't Hof said global inventories are draining and will eventually need to be refilled. That's the higher-floor thesis, coming straight from the operator.
The Inventory Scare Is a SideshowThe latest leg lower followed a report from the American Petroleum Institute. It showed an unexpected build of about 1.8 million barrels in U.S. crude stocks. Traders sold first and asked questions later.
But the Energy Information Administration's official numbers haven't confirmed that build. Even if they had, one week of U.S. storage data says little about a global market this stretched.
The Supply Gap Isn't ClosedSaudi Arabia shut its East-West pipeline on Sept. 11 after drone strikes damaged pumping stations. Since the Strait of Hormuz was disrupted, Riyadh has used that line to reroute about four million barrels per day. That's roughly 4% of the global supply. Loadings at the Red Sea port of Yanbu stopped with it.
Aramco restarted the pipeline this week, but at a low rate. A full return could take six to eight weeks. Meanwhile, the Houthis targeted Yanbu again over the Sept. 18-19 weekend. The market is pricing in a quick fix that isn't supported by the realities on the ground.
The Floor Isn't Just About IranInvestors treat oil's premium as a war premium. But a meaningful share of today's demand has nothing to do with the Middle East.
Every AI data center starts as a construction site. Steel, concrete and copper arrive on diesel trucks. Diesel equipment pours foundations and runs cranes. Many facilities rely on diesel generators for backup power. Cable insulation, cooling components and enclosures lean on petrochemicals.
The AI buildout isn't happening alone, either. Grid upgrades, transmission lines, highway work, and reshored manufacturing plants all compete for the same fuel. This kind of demand is sticky. A hyperscaler doesn't pause a multibillion-dollar campus because diesel costs more.
Diamondback also has a direct line into the AI story. On its Q2 conference call, management detailed a power project on its 30,000-acre Bryant Ranch near Midland. Behind-the-meter power could start in the back half of 2027, with grid connection as soon as 2028. Diamondback would supply gas, land, and water. Diamondback hasn’t yet finalized an agreement with a hyperscaler for the Bryant Ranch project. Still, that's the kind of optionality the market isn't paying for today.
What the Chart SaysThe technical picture argues for patience in how investors buy, not whether they buy. FANG trades near $188, below its 50-day moving average of around $199. The MACD sits below its signal line, so momentum hasn't turned yet.
The first support zone is near $180. Below that, the July low near $170 is the level to watch. Scaling in across those levels makes more sense than a single lump sum buy. A close back above the 50-day would signal that sellers are exhausted.
Investors Shouldn't Fear the Volatility in FANGThe perception is that oil below $100 means the energy trade is over. The fundamentals say otherwise. The Middle East supply gap will take weeks to close. AI and infrastructure demand gives crude a sturdier floor than past cycles. And Diamondback's sell-off came from share supply and a downgrade, not a broken business.
Oil will stay volatile, and FANG will move with it. But volatility around a higher floor is a buying setup. For investors with a longer view, the dips in Diamondback and other quality oil producers look like opportunities to accumulate.
Should You Invest $1,000 in Diamondback Energy Right Now?Before you consider Diamondback Energy, you'll want to hear this.
MarketBeat keeps track of Wall Street's top-rated and best performing research analysts and the stocks they recommend to their clients on a daily basis. MarketBeat has identified the five stocks that top analysts are quietly whispering to their clients to buy now before the broader market catches on... and Diamondback Energy wasn't on the list.
While Diamondback Energy currently has a Moderate Buy rating among analysts, top-rated analysts believe these five stocks are better buys.
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Tesla, Nvidia, and Google helped shape the last era of market growth, but the next wave could come from a new group of companies. Inside this report, you’ll find 7 stocks that could play a major role in the next tech-driven market boom.
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Diamondback Energy (FANG - Free Report) closed at $189.27 in the latest trading session, marking a -1.64% move from the prior day. This move lagged the S&P 500's daily gain of 1.49%. Elsewhere, the Dow gained 0.71%, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq added 2.26%.
Prior to today's trading, shares of the energy exploration and production company had lost 8.68% lagged the Oils-Energy sector's gain of 0.51% and the S&P 500's gain of 0.1%.
The upcoming earnings release of Diamondback Energy will be of great interest to investors. It is anticipated that the company will report an EPS of $4.48, marking a 45.45% rise compared to the same quarter of the previous year. Simultaneously, our latest consensus estimate expects the revenue to be $4.18 billion, showing a 6.46% escalation compared to the year-ago quarter.
For the entire fiscal year, the Zacks Consensus Estimates are projecting earnings of $20.33 per share and a revenue of $18.55 billion, representing changes of +52.06% and +23.45%, respectively, from the prior year.
Additionally, investors should keep an eye on any recent revisions to analyst forecasts for Diamondback Energy. These latest adjustments often mirror the shifting dynamics of short-term business patterns. With this in mind, we can consider positive estimate revisions a sign of optimism about the business outlook.
Research indicates that these estimate revisions are directly correlated with near-term share price momentum. To exploit this, we've formed the Zacks Rank, a quantitative model that includes these estimate changes and presents a viable rating system.
The Zacks Rank system, ranging from #1 (Strong Buy) to #5 (Strong Sell), possesses a remarkable history of outdoing, externally audited, with #1 stocks returning an average annual gain of +25% since 1988. Over the past month, there's been a 0.97% rise in the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate. Right now, Diamondback Energy possesses a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold).
In terms of valuation, Diamondback Energy is presently being traded at a Forward P/E ratio of 9.46. This represents a discount compared to its industry average Forward P/E of 9.47.
The Oil and Gas - Exploration and Production - United States industry is part of the Oils-Energy sector. At present, this industry carries a Zacks Industry Rank of 104, placing it within the top 43% of over 250 industries.
The Zacks Industry Rank gauges the strength of our industry groups by measuring the average Zacks Rank of the individual stocks within the groups. Our research shows that the top 50% rated industries outperform the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1.
Remember to apply Zacks.com to follow these and more stock-moving metrics during the upcoming trading sessions.
Corient Private Wealth LP reduced its position in shares of Diamondback Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:FANG – Free Report) by 18.7% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 49,141 shares of the oil and natural gas company’s stock after selling 11,278 shares during the period. Corient Private Wealth LP’s holdings in Diamondback Energy were worth $8,638,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. BlackRock Inc. acquired a new stake in Diamondback Energy during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $3,303,362,000. Wellington Management Group LLP increased its position in Diamondback Energy by 31.3% in the 2nd quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 16,420,247 shares of the oil and natural gas company’s stock valued at $2,886,351,000 after acquiring an additional 3,918,943 shares during the period. Bank of New York Mellon Corp acquired a new position in Diamondback Energy in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $852,791,000. Geode Capital Management LLC raised its stake in shares of Diamondback Energy by 0.3% during the fourth quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 5,621,120 shares of the oil and natural gas company’s stock valued at $844,073,000 after acquiring an additional 14,625 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Capital Research Global Investors lifted its holdings in shares of Diamondback Energy by 14.1% during the fourth quarter. Capital Research Global Investors now owns 4,332,885 shares of the oil and natural gas company’s stock worth $651,363,000 after purchasing an additional 534,073 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 90.01% of the company’s stock.
More Diamondback Energy News Here are the key news stories impacting Diamondback Energy this week:
Positive Sentiment: Diamondback’s strong operating results remain a longer-term support: its latest quarterly earnings and revenue exceeded analyst expectations, with revenue increasing 51.2% year over year. The company also maintains a quarterly dividend of $1.10 per share. Here’s Why Diamondback Energy Is a Strong Growth Stock Positive Sentiment: Analyst sentiment remains favorable. UBS initiated or reiterated a Buy rating, while the broader analyst consensus is Moderate Buy with an average price target above the recent trading level. Diamondback Receives a Buy from UBS Insider Transactions at Diamondback Energy In other Diamondback Energy news, Director Charles Meloy sold 33,333 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, August 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $198.41, for a total value of $6,613,600.53. Following the transaction, the director owned 818,197 shares in the company, valued at approximately $162,338,466.77. This represents a 3.91% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. The transaction was executed under a pre-arranged Rule 10b5-1 trading plan. Also, Director Travis D. Stice sold 75,000 shares of the firm’s stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, September 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $204.31, for a total value of $15,323,250.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director directly owned 49,727 shares of the company’s stock, valued at $10,159,723.37. This trade represents a 60.13% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Insiders own 0.64% of the company’s stock. Diamondback Energy Price Performance Diamondback Energy stock opened at $194.54 on Thursday. The stock has a market capitalization of $54.48 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 37.92 and a beta of 0.43. Diamondback Energy, Inc. has a 52-week low of $136.13 and a 52-week high of $216.90. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.25, a quick ratio of 0.45 and a current ratio of 0.47. The stock’s 50 day moving average price is $199.21 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $193.61.
Diamondback Energy (NASDAQ:FANG – Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Monday, August 3rd. The oil and natural gas company reported $6.48 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $6.08 by $0.40. The company had revenue of $5.56 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.89 billion. Diamondback Energy had a net margin of 8.58% and a return on equity of 10.10%. Diamondback Energy’s revenue for the quarter was up 51.2% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $2.38 EPS. On average, equities analysts predict that Diamondback Energy, Inc. will post 19.94 earnings per share for the current year.
Diamondback Energy Dividend Announcement The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, August 20th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, August 13th were issued a dividend of $1.10 per share. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, August 13th. This represents a $4.40 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.3%. Diamondback Energy’s dividend payout ratio is currently 85.77%.
Analysts Set New Price Targets FANG has been the subject of a number of recent research reports. Wells Fargo & Company increased their price objective on Diamondback Energy from $262.00 to $263.00 and gave the company an “overweight” rating in a report on Wednesday, August 5th. Barclays cut their target price on Diamondback Energy from $232.00 to $221.00 and set an “overweight” rating on the stock in a report on Monday, August 17th. Stifel Nicolaus initiated coverage on Diamondback Energy in a research note on Thursday, September 10th. They issued a “buy” rating and a $259.00 price target for the company. Truist Financial raised their price objective on Diamondback Energy from $220.00 to $224.00 and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a research report on Wednesday, August 5th. Finally, Citigroup cut their price objective on Diamondback Energy from $221.00 to $220.00 and set a “buy” rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, August 10th. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, sixteen have given a Buy rating and five have issued a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” and an average price target of $224.55.
Check Out Our Latest Report on FANG
(Free Report)
Diamondback Energy, Inc is an independent oil and natural gas company focused on the acquisition, development, exploration and exploitation of unconventional, onshore oil and natural gas reserves in the Permian Basin of West Texas and southeastern New Mexico. The company’s operations are concentrated primarily in the Midland and Delaware sub-basins.
Diamondback produces crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids. Its activities include drilling and completing horizontal wells, operating gathering and infrastructure assets, and managing mineral and royalty interests through its Viper Energy platform.
Read More Five stocks we like better than Diamondback Energy 3 Luxury Consumer Brands to Watch in a Beaten-Down Sector Jackson’s Record Quarter Powers the Bull Case Holiday Shopping Is Almost Here—And Target May Be Ready to Win Big AI Panic Hit Tech Stocks—But NVIDIA’s Growth Engine Is Intact
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Bank of America Corp DE boosted its holdings in Diamondback Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:FANG – Free Report) by 8.9% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The firm owned 1,489,391 shares of the oil and natural gas company’s stock after buying an additional 121,322 shares during the period. Bank of America Corp DE owned approximately 0.53% of Diamondback Energy worth $261,805,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.
A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of FANG. Hsbc Holdings PLC boosted its holdings in Diamondback Energy by 16.3% in the fourth quarter. Hsbc Holdings PLC now owns 338,577 shares of the oil and natural gas company’s stock valued at $50,890,000 after purchasing an additional 47,450 shares during the last quarter. Guinness Asset Management LTD increased its holdings in Diamondback Energy by 12.0% during the 4th quarter. Guinness Asset Management LTD now owns 54,132 shares of the oil and natural gas company’s stock worth $8,042,000 after purchasing an additional 5,816 shares during the last quarter. Peterson Wealth Services increased its holdings in Diamondback Energy by 174.2% during the 4th quarter. Peterson Wealth Services now owns 23,973 shares of the oil and natural gas company’s stock worth $3,604,000 after purchasing an additional 15,229 shares during the last quarter. National Pension Service raised its position in shares of Diamondback Energy by 7.7% in the 4th quarter. National Pension Service now owns 381,710 shares of the oil and natural gas company’s stock valued at $57,382,000 after purchasing an additional 27,229 shares in the last quarter. Finally, EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC raised its position in shares of Diamondback Energy by 11.5% in the 4th quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 67,977 shares of the oil and natural gas company’s stock valued at $10,219,000 after purchasing an additional 6,992 shares in the last quarter. 90.01% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.
More Diamondback Energy News Here are the key news stories impacting Diamondback Energy this week:
Positive Sentiment: Diamondback’s strong operating results remain a longer-term support: its latest quarterly earnings and revenue exceeded analyst expectations, with revenue increasing 51.2% year over year. The company also maintains a quarterly dividend of $1.10 per share. Here’s Why Diamondback Energy Is a Strong Growth Stock Positive Sentiment: Analyst sentiment remains favorable. UBS initiated or reiterated a Buy rating, while the broader analyst consensus is Moderate Buy with an average price target above the recent trading level. Diamondback Receives a Buy from UBS Insider Buying and Selling at Diamondback Energy In other news, Director Travis Stice sold 75,000 shares of the business’s stock in a transaction on Friday, September 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $204.31, for a total transaction of $15,323,250.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director owned 49,727 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $10,159,723.37. The trade was a 60.13% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, Director Charles Meloy sold 33,333 shares of the company’s stock in a transaction dated Monday, August 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $198.41, for a total transaction of $6,613,600.53. Following the transaction, the director owned 818,197 shares of the company’s stock, valued at $162,338,466.77. This represents a 3.91% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. The transaction was executed under a pre-arranged Rule 10b5-1 trading plan. 0.64% of the stock is owned by company insiders. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In A number of analysts have recently weighed in on the stock. Barclays decreased their price target on shares of Diamondback Energy from $232.00 to $221.00 and set an “overweight” rating for the company in a research report on Monday, August 17th. Roth Capital set a $212.00 price objective on shares of Diamondback Energy and gave the company a “buy” rating in a research note on Monday, June 22nd. UBS Group raised their price objective on shares of Diamondback Energy from $243.00 to $253.00 and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a report on Monday. Morgan Stanley reissued an “equal weight” rating and issued a $216.00 target price on shares of Diamondback Energy in a research report on Wednesday, August 19th. Finally, Zacks Research lowered shares of Diamondback Energy from a “strong-buy” rating to a “hold” rating in a research note on Thursday, May 28th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, sixteen have issued a Buy rating and five have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Diamondback Energy has an average rating of “Moderate Buy” and an average price target of $224.55.
View Our Latest Report on Diamondback Energy
Diamondback Energy Price Performance FANG opened at $194.54 on Thursday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.45, a current ratio of 0.47 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.25. The company’s 50-day moving average price is $199.21 and its 200 day moving average price is $193.61. Diamondback Energy, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $136.13 and a fifty-two week high of $216.90. The firm has a market cap of $54.48 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 37.92 and a beta of 0.43.
Diamondback Energy (NASDAQ:FANG – Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Monday, August 3rd. The oil and natural gas company reported $6.48 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts’ consensus estimates of $6.08 by $0.40. The company had revenue of $5.56 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.89 billion. Diamondback Energy had a return on equity of 10.10% and a net margin of 8.58%.Diamondback Energy’s quarterly revenue was up 51.2% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $2.38 earnings per share. As a group, sell-side analysts expect that Diamondback Energy, Inc. will post 19.94 earnings per share for the current year.
Diamondback Energy Announces Dividend The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, August 20th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, August 13th were given a $1.10 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, August 13th. This represents a $4.40 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.3%. Diamondback Energy’s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 85.77%.
Diamondback Energy Profile (Free Report)
Diamondback Energy, Inc is an independent oil and natural gas company focused on the acquisition, development, exploration and exploitation of unconventional, onshore oil and natural gas reserves in the Permian Basin of West Texas and southeastern New Mexico. The company’s operations are concentrated primarily in the Midland and Delaware sub-basins.
Diamondback produces crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids. Its activities include drilling and completing horizontal wells, operating gathering and infrastructure assets, and managing mineral and royalty interests through its Viper Energy platform.
See Also Five stocks we like better than Diamondback Energy 3 Luxury Consumer Brands to Watch in a Beaten-Down Sector Jackson’s Record Quarter Powers the Bull Case Holiday Shopping Is Almost Here—And Target May Be Ready to Win Big AI Panic Hit Tech Stocks—But NVIDIA’s Growth Engine Is Intact Want to see what other hedge funds are holding FANG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Diamondback Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:FANG – Free Report).
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On September 16, 2026, Diamondback Energy Inc FANG shares fell 8.0% to a current price of $194.54. This drop comes amid a 52-week range of $135.59 to $216.90, reflecting a volatile trading environment for the stock.
GF Value™ verdict: $210.18, indicating the stock is 7.4% undervalued. GF Score™ of 61/100, suggesting an above-average overall rating. Notable signal: Insiders sold $5170.6M over the past 12 months, with no buying activity. Is FANG Overvalued or Undervalued? The current price of Diamondback Energy Inc FANG at $194.54 is below the GF Value™ estimate of $210.18, indicating that the stock is 7.4% undervalued. This presents a potential opportunity for investors, as the GF Value™ is GuruFocus' proprietary intrinsic value estimate derived from historical trading multiples, past business growth, and future performance estimates. While the stock appears to be undervalued, it's essential to consider the market dynamics and the company's financial health when assessing this opportunity.
The GF Valuation label classifies the stock as fairly valued, suggesting that while there is some margin of safety, the valuation is not without risk. Investors should weigh the potential upside against market volatility and recent insider selling, which could signal caution about the company's future performance.
How Does FANG's Valuation Compare to Its History? Metric Current Historical P/E (TTM) 37.7x 10.0x Forward P/E 10.8x N/A Currently, FANG's P/E ratio of 37.7x is significantly above its 5-year median P/E of 10.0x, indicating that the stock is trading at a premium relative to its historical valuation. This discrepancy aligns with the GF Value™ verdict of undervaluation, as the elevated P/E suggests that the stock may be overvalued based on historical norms, despite the current price being below the GF Value™ estimate.
What Does FANG's GF Score™ Tell Us? The GF Score™ measures a stock's overall appeal based on various factors, including financial strength, profitability, growth, valuation, and momentum. With a GF Score™ of 61/100, FANG is rated above average, reflecting a mixed performance across its sub-ranks.
Metric Rating GF Score™ 61 Financial Strength 5/10 Profitability 8/10 Growth 2/10 Valuation 7/10 Momentum 1/10 FANG's strongest area lies in profitability, with a score of 8/10, indicating solid earnings and margin performance. However, the growth rank of 2/10 highlights potential concerns regarding the company's future expansion capabilities. The valuation rank of 7/10 suggests that while the stock is relatively attractive in terms of price, it is crucial to consider the growth outlook and market conditions.
What Are Gurus and Insiders Doing with FANG? Currently, 14 gurus hold shares of FANG, with 6 increasing their positions and 6 trimming their holdings in recent quarters. This mixed sentiment among institutional investors suggests a cautious approach towards the stock. Notably, insiders have sold a substantial amount, totaling $5170.6M, with no buying activity reported in the last 12 months. This pattern of significant insider selling could indicate a lack of confidence in the company's short-term prospects, which investors should consider when evaluating the stock.
What This Means for Investors Based on the GF Value™ assessment, Diamondback Energy Inc FANG is currently undervalued at $194.54, compared to its fair value estimate of $210.18. However, the combination of significant insider selling and mixed guru activity raises caution for potential investors. It is crucial to consider these factors alongside the stock's valuation when making investment decisions. For more detailed analysis, you can visit the Diamondback Energy Inc (FANG) stock page.
Frequently Asked Questions What is FANG's GF Score™?
FANG has a GF Score™ of 61/100, indicating that it is rated above average compared to its peers.
Is FANG overvalued or undervalued?
FANG is currently undervalued, with a GF Value™ estimate of $210.18 compared to the current price of $194.54.
What is FANG's P/E ratio?
FANG's P/E ratio is 37.7x, which is significantly above its 5-year median P/E of 10.0x, suggesting that it is trading at a premium compared to its historical valuation.
This stock alert was generated using automated technology and GuruFocus financial data to provide readers with timely and accurate market reporting. This content was reviewed by GuruFocus editorial team prior to publication. Please send any questions or comments about this story to [email protected].
Disclosures I/We may personally own shares in some of the companies mentioned above. However, those positions are not material to either the company or to my/our portfolios.
Trh netrpělivě očekává vyhlášení úrokových sazeb americkým FEDem ve 20:00 našeho času, přičemž se očekává mírné zvýšení z důvodu rizika vyšší inflace. Tím, že se toto mírné zvýšení očekává, lze předpokládat, že jakékoliv odchýlení by znamenalo zvýšenou volatilitu. Přesto dnes akcie rostou, a to převážně ty technologické. Defenzivní tituly naopak očekávaně ztrácejí. Trhu svědčí také pokles cen ropy.
V čele růstu technologického sektoru je dnes AMD (+3,51 %) a Intel (+4,61 %), přesto AI sektor nepodává lepší výsledky než softwarové firmy.
Výrazně přidávají také akcie SpaceX Elona Muska, které dnes dostali sérii zvýšených doporučení. Titul přidává + 5,4 %.
Nedaří se naopak burze Robinhood (-4,57 %), která řeší poškozenou pověst, z důvodu obvinění jejich pracovníků z podvodných aktivit s využitím vnitřní informace. Navíc americký senát neschválil novelu o digitálních aktivech, což komplikuje podnikání v oblasti krypta a tokenizace.
Ropě v posledních hodinách pomohla zpráva o vyšších než očekávaných zásobách v USA. Ropa reagovala poklesem. Přesto pokles není nikterak markantní, jelikož hlavní problém Hormuzského průlivu ještě není zdaleka vyřešen. Zároveň se řeší i dění v průlivu Bab al-Mandab, kde dochází ke střetu Húsíu a provládních jemenských milic. Případné blokování tohoto průlivu by mělo ještě větší efekt na celosvětovou distribuci ropy. WTI nyní ztrácí -3,12 %
Z poklesu ropy částečně těší drahé kovy a zlato přidává +1,17 %, stříbro pak +1,54 %. Naopak z růstu akcií zatím neprofitují kryptoměny, po včerejším výrazném poklesu se Bitcoin nadále drží v červených číslech a odepisuje (-1,68 %)
Index Dow Jones -0,11 % na 52036,1 b.
S&P 500 +0,26 % na 7605,67 b.
Nasdaq Composite +0,64 % na 26148,98 b.
Index S&P 500 +0,26 % na 7605,67 b. Nejsilnější sektory S&P Změna Nejslabší sektory S&P Změna Průmysl +0,8 % Energie -1,9 % Informační technologie +0,7 % Finanční sektor -0,8 % Reality +0,5 % Nezbytná spotřeba +0,1 % Nejsilnější akcie S&P Změna Nejslabší akcie S&P Změna Lumentum Holdings (LITE) +8,6 % JB Hunt Transport Services (JBHT) -14 % Axon Enterprise (AXON) +6,4 % Diamondback Energy (FANG) -7,4 % Coherent Corp (COHR) +6,3 % First Solar (FSLR) -5,3 % GE Vernova (GEV) +5,0 % EOG Resources (EOG) -4,8 % Intel Corp (INTC) +4,6 % Occidental Petroleum Corp (OXY) -4,7 %
Jan Pazourek, Fio banka, a.s.
For new and old investors, taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals. Zacks Premium provides lots of different ways to do both.
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What are the Zacks Style Scores? The Zacks Style Scores is a unique set of guidelines that rates stocks based on three popular investing types, and were developed as complementary indicators for the Zacks Rank. This combination helps investors choose securities with the highest chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.
Each stock is assigned a rating of A, B, C, D, or F based on their value, growth, and momentum characteristics. Just like in school, an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on -- that means the better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform.
The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:
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How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank The Zacks Rank is a proprietary stock-rating model that harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings expectations, to help investors build a successful portfolio.
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Stock to Watch: Diamondback Energy (FANG - Free Report) Founded in 2007, Midland, TX-headquartered Diamondback Energy, Inc. is an independent oil and gas exploration and production company with its primary focus on the Permian Basin, where it has approximately 902,005 net acres. Its activities are concentrated in the Wolfcamp, Spraberry and Bone Spring formations.
FANG is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of A.
Additionally, the company could be a top pick for growth investors. FANG has a Growth Style Score of A, forecasting year-over-year earnings growth of 49.1% for the current fiscal year.
For fiscal 2026, five analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days, and the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $1.25 to $19.94 per share. FANG boasts an average earnings surprise of +7.1%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Growth and VGM Style Scores, FANG should be on investors' short list.
Devon Energy and Diamondback gain significant upside from the Solitude Pipeline, securing substantial Permian gas takeaway capacity. Solitude's 4.5 Bcf/d capacity, with major producer backing, should structurally improve Waha basis but may shift congestion risk to Katy. DVN and FANG could see $1.00/mmbtu margin uplift, translating to $410mm and $120mm annual profit boosts, respectively, if Katy basis holds.
Deep DiveThere is a correlation between increasing dividends and strong investment performance, even if a stock has a low dividend yield when you buy
You might not be impressed by a stock with a 2% dividend yield as long-term interest rates have been rising quickly in the bond market. But a screen of the S&P 500 shows that companies that have raised their payouts the most have tended to be strong overall performers for long-term investors.
Early on Wednesday, 10-year U.S. Treasury notes BX:TMUBMUSD10Y were yielding 4.97%, up from 4.47% at the end of June and from 4.17% at the end of last year. Investors have been selling off bonds (which drives up market yields) in anticipation of a decision by the Federal Reserve to raise its target range for the federal-funds rate.
Diamondback Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:FANG – Get Free Report) Director Travis Stice sold 75,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, September 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $204.31, for a total value of $15,323,250.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director directly owned 49,727 shares in the company, valued at approximately $10,159,723.37. This represents a 60.13% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this link.
Diamondback Energy Stock Performance Shares of Diamondback Energy stock opened at $211.52 on Wednesday. The stock has a market cap of $59.23 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 41.23 and a beta of 0.43. The firm’s 50-day moving average is $199.05 and its 200 day moving average is $193.42. Diamondback Energy, Inc. has a 1 year low of $135.59 and a 1 year high of $216.90. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.25, a current ratio of 0.47 and a quick ratio of 0.45.
Diamondback Energy (NASDAQ:FANG – Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Monday, August 3rd. The oil and natural gas company reported $6.48 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts’ consensus estimates of $6.08 by $0.40. The business had revenue of $5.56 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.89 billion. Diamondback Energy had a net margin of 8.58% and a return on equity of 10.10%. Diamondback Energy’s revenue was up 51.2% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the business earned $2.38 EPS. Sell-side analysts anticipate that Diamondback Energy, Inc. will post 19.94 EPS for the current fiscal year.
Diamondback Energy Dividend Announcement The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, August 20th. Investors of record on Thursday, August 13th were given a dividend of $1.10 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, August 13th. This represents a $4.40 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.1%. Diamondback Energy’s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 85.77%. Key Headlines Impacting Diamondback Energy Here are the key news stories impacting Diamondback Energy this week:
Positive Sentiment: UBS initiated or reiterated a Buy rating on Diamondback Energy, adding to an already favorable analyst outlook. The stock carries a “Moderate Buy” consensus rating, with an average price target above its recent trading level. Diamondback Receives a Buy from UBS Positive Sentiment: Diamondback’s latest quarterly results provide fundamental support: EPS of $6.48 exceeded the $6.08 consensus estimate, while revenue of $5.56 billion topped the $4.89 billion forecast. Earnings also rose sharply from the prior-year period. Neutral Sentiment: A Zacks industry outlook highlighted Diamondback alongside W&T Offshore and APA. The company remains focused on efficient oil and natural-gas production from high-quality Permian Basin assets, leaving its outlook sensitive to commodity prices. Zacks Industry Outlook W&T Offshore, APA and Diamondback Negative Sentiment: Director Travis Stice sold 75,000 shares for approximately $15.3 million at an average price of $204.31, reducing his direct ownership by about 60%. Although insider sales may reflect personal financial planning, the sizable transaction could weigh modestly on sentiment. Diamondback Director Sells 75,000 Shares Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several analysts have commented on FANG shares. UBS Group increased their target price on Diamondback Energy from $243.00 to $253.00 and gave the company a “buy” rating in a research note on Monday. Truist Financial boosted their price target on Diamondback Energy from $220.00 to $224.00 and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a research note on Wednesday, August 5th. Morgan Stanley reaffirmed an “equal weight” rating and set a $216.00 price target on shares of Diamondback Energy in a report on Wednesday, August 19th. Jefferies Financial Group reaffirmed a “hold” rating and set a $205.00 price objective on shares of Diamondback Energy in a research report on Sunday, August 9th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company lifted their price objective on Diamondback Energy from $262.00 to $263.00 and gave the stock an “overweight” rating in a report on Wednesday, August 5th. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, sixteen have issued a Buy rating and five have given a Hold rating to the company’s stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Diamondback Energy currently has a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” and a consensus target price of $224.55.
View Our Latest Analysis on Diamondback Energy
Institutional Investors Weigh In On Diamondback Energy A number of large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Cedar Mountain Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of Diamondback Energy during the first quarter valued at approximately $26,000. Meeder Asset Management Inc. bought a new position in Diamondback Energy in the second quarter worth approximately $28,000. Wellington Shields & Co. LLC grew its stake in Diamondback Energy by 264.7% in the fourth quarter. Wellington Shields & Co. LLC now owns 186 shares of the oil and natural gas company’s stock worth $28,000 after purchasing an additional 135 shares in the last quarter. Global Assets Advisory LLC purchased a new position in Diamondback Energy during the 1st quarter worth $40,000. Finally, Lloyd Advisory Services LLC. purchased a new position in Diamondback Energy during the 4th quarter worth $31,000. Institutional investors own 90.01% of the company’s stock.
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Diamondback Energy, Inc is an independent oil and natural gas company focused on the acquisition, development, exploration and exploitation of unconventional, onshore oil and natural gas reserves in the Permian Basin of West Texas and southeastern New Mexico. The company’s operations are concentrated primarily in the Midland and Delaware sub-basins.
Diamondback produces crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids. Its activities include drilling and completing horizontal wells, operating gathering and infrastructure assets, and managing mineral and royalty interests through its Viper Energy platform.
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In the latest trading session, Diamondback Energy (FANG - Free Report) closed at $211.53, marking a +2.82% move from the previous day. The stock outperformed the S&P 500, which registered a daily loss of 0.45%. Elsewhere, the Dow lost 0.63%, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq lost 0.78%.
The energy exploration and production company's shares have seen a decrease of 0.28% over the last month, not keeping up with the Oils-Energy sector's gain of 2% and outstripping the S&P 500's loss of 1.99%.
Market participants will be closely following the financial results of Diamondback Energy in its upcoming release. The company is predicted to post an EPS of $4.44, indicating a 44.16% growth compared to the equivalent quarter last year. Meanwhile, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenue is projecting net sales of $4.15 billion, up 5.85% from the year-ago period.
For the annual period, the Zacks Consensus Estimates anticipate earnings of $19.94 per share and a revenue of $18.18 billion, signifying shifts of +49.14% and +21.01%, respectively, from the last year.
It's also important for investors to be aware of any recent modifications to analyst estimates for Diamondback Energy. These latest adjustments often mirror the shifting dynamics of short-term business patterns. As such, positive estimate revisions reflect analyst optimism about the business and profitability.
Our research suggests that these changes in estimates have a direct relationship with upcoming stock price performance. To exploit this, we've formed the Zacks Rank, a quantitative model that includes these estimate changes and presents a viable rating system.
The Zacks Rank system, stretching from #1 (Strong Buy) to #5 (Strong Sell), has a noteworthy track record of outperforming, validated by third-party audits, with stocks rated #1 producing an average annual return of +25% since the year 1988. Over the past month, the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate has shifted 2.26% upward. Diamondback Energy presently features a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold).
Looking at its valuation, Diamondback Energy is holding a Forward P/E ratio of 10.32. This represents a premium compared to its industry average Forward P/E of 9.99.
The Oil and Gas - Exploration and Production - United States industry is part of the Oils-Energy sector. With its current Zacks Industry Rank of 94, this industry ranks in the top 39% of all industries, numbering over 250.
The Zacks Industry Rank evaluates the power of our distinct industry groups by determining the average Zacks Rank of the individual stocks forming the groups. Our research shows that the top 50% rated industries outperform the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1.
Keep in mind to rely on Zacks.com to watch all these stock-impacting metrics, and more, in the succeeding trading sessions.
The Zacks Oil and Gas - Exploration and Production - United States industry is entering a constructive phase as stronger commodity fundamentals meet improving operating efficiency. Lean global oil inventories continue to support the pricing backdrop, while advances in drilling, longer laterals and automation are helping producers generate more output from each dollar spent. Natural gas is another bright spot, with LNG exports, power generation and data-center demand creating new growth avenues. Risks remain.
Oil and gas prices can swing sharply, and higher service, fuel and equipment costs may pressure margins. Even so, improving earnings estimates and the industry’s favorable Zacks Industry Rank point to encouraging near-term prospects. Within the group, W&T Offshore, APA Corp. and Diamondback Energy stand out, supported by solid production bases, disciplined capital spending, cost-control efforts and multiple avenues for longer-term growth.
About the IndustryThe Zacks Oil and Gas - US E&P industry consists of companies primarily based in the domestic market and focused on the exploration and production (E&P) of oil and natural gas. These firms find hydrocarbon reservoirs, drill oil and gas wells, and produce and sell these materials to be refined later into products such as gasoline, fuel oil, distillate, etc. The economics of oil and gas supply and demand are the fundamental drivers of this industry.
In particular, a producer’s cash flow is primarily determined by the realized commodity prices. In fact, all E&P companies' results are vulnerable to historically volatile prices in the energy markets. A change in realizations affects their returns, causing them to alter their production growth rates. The E&P operators are also exposed to exploration risks where drilling results are comparatively uncertain.
4 Key Trends to Watch in the Oil and Gas - US E&P IndustryTight Global Inventories Support the Oil Price Outlook: Global crude and refined-product inventories remain relatively lean, creating a supportive backdrop for U.S. exploration and production companies. Oil drawn from storage eventually needs to be replaced unless demand weakens permanently. This restocking requirement could provide an underlying source of demand even when geopolitical headlines cause short-term price swings. A firmer oil-price environment generally improves drilling economics, supports reserve values and gives producers more confidence to maintain or selectively raise activity. Still, disciplined operators are likely to remain flexible, adjusting spending as commodity signals change.
Efficiency Gains Are Stretching Every Capital Dollar: U.S. producers are getting more output from fewer rigs and lower levels of sustaining capital as drilling, completion and field-management practices improve. Better well designs, longer laterals, faster drilling, automation and more efficient completion techniques are helping operators lower costs per unit of production. This matters because stronger capital efficiency can protect margins when service or fuel costs rise. It also allows producers to maintain production with less spending, freeing more cash for debt reduction, shareholder returns or selective growth. Continued technological improvements could further strengthen industry economics over time.
Natural Gas Demand Is Opening New Growth Channels: The outlook for U.S. natural gas is becoming broader as LNG exports, power generation and data-center development create additional sources of demand. Expanding pipeline capacity can also improve access from producing basins to Gulf Coast markets, reducing local transportation bottlenecks. For E&P companies with meaningful gas exposure, stronger connectivity could improve realized pricing and make associated gas production more valuable. Rising electricity needs from large computing facilities add another possible demand driver. Together, domestic power consumption and growing LNG infrastructure could provide a stronger long-term outlet for U.S. natural gas supply.
Cost Inflation and Commodity Volatility Remain Key Risks: The E&P industry remains highly sensitive to commodity prices, while operating and development costs can rise when drilling activity strengthens. Recent industry commentary points to pressure from fuel, casing, service costs, power and other consumables. If more rigs return to work, competition for equipment and labor could push costs higher, reducing the benefit of stronger oil and gas prices.
Offshore producers also face sizable long-term decommissioning obligations. Efficiency improvements can offset part of these pressures, but a combination of weaker commodity prices and higher costs could quickly squeeze margins, cash flow and drilling returns.
Zacks Industry Rank Indicates Positive OutlookThe Zacks Oil and Gas - US E&P industry is a 33-stock group within the broader Zacks Oil - Energy sector. The industry currently carries a Zacks Industry Rank #95, which places it in the top 38% of 248 Zacks industries.
The group’s Zacks Industry Rank, which is basically the average of the Zacks Rank of all the member stocks, indicates fairly strong near-term prospects. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperforms the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.
The industry’s position in the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries is a result of improving earnings outlook for the constituent companies in aggregate. Looking at the aggregate earnings estimate revisions, it appears that analysts are becoming optimistic about this group’s earnings growth potential. As a matter of fact, the industry’s earnings estimates for 2026 have gone up 41.5% in the past year.
Considering the encouraging dynamics of the industry, we will present a few stocks that you may want to consider for your portfolio. But it’s worth taking a look at the industry’s shareholder returns and current valuation first.
Industry Outperforms S&P 500 but Lags SectorThe Zacks Oil and Gas - US E&P industry has fared worse than the broader Zacks Oil - Energy Sector, though it has outperformed the Zacks S&P 500 composite over the past year.
The industry has moved up 22.8% over this period against the broader sector’s increase of 37.3%. Meanwhile, the S&P 500 has gained some 16.9%.
Industry's Current ValuationSince oil and gas companies are debt-laden, it makes sense to value them based on the EV/EBITDA (Enterprise Value/ Earnings before Interest Tax Depreciation and Amortization) ratio. This is because the valuation metric takes into account not just equity but also the level of debt. For capital-intensive companies, EV/EBITDA is a better valuation metric because it is not influenced by changing capital structures and ignores the effect of noncash expenses.
On the basis of the trailing 12-month enterprise value-to-EBITDA (EV/EBITDA), the industry is currently trading at 11.24X, lower than the S&P 500’s 17.68X. It is, however, well above the sector’s trailing 12-month EV/EBITDA of 6.06X.
Over the past five years, the industry has traded as high as 17.10X and as low as 3.42X, with a median of 6.08X.
3 Stocks to Focus OnW&T Offshore: W&T Offshore is an oil and gas producer focused on the Gulf of America, where it has operated for over four decades. The Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) company has built its business mainly through acquisitions of producing assets and drilling. Its portfolio spans 48 offshore fields, giving it exposure to both oil and natural gas across shallow-water and deepwater areas.
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
W&T aims to create value by lowering costs, extending field lives and increasing production from existing assets. It also pursues low-cost workovers, recompletions and acquisition opportunities as larger operators sell Gulf properties. Ownership of existing infrastructure can reduce development spending and speed up cash generation, while a project inventory provides options for future growth.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the company’s 2026 earnings per share indicates 75.7% year-over-year growth. Over the past 60 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for W&T Offshore’s 2026 loss has narrowed from 13 cents per share to 9 cents.
APA Corporation: APA Corporation is an oil and gas exploration and production company with operations in the United States, Egypt and the United Kingdom, alongside exploration interests in Suriname and other regions. Its core Permian and Egypt assets provide a steady cash-generating base, while management expects organic oil growth and continues working toward lower costs and debt.
The Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) company is also building its longer-term growth pipeline through exploration. Suriname’s GranMorgu development is expected to deliver first oil in mid-2028, with production capacity of 220,000 barrels per day. APA is also pursuing opportunities in Alaska and Uruguay, giving it several potential growth avenues beyond its established producing assets.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the company’s 2026 earnings per share indicates 51.2% year-over-year growth. Over the past 60 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for APA’s 2026 earnings has moved up from $5.14 per share to $5.70.
Diamondback Energy: Diamondback Energy is a Permian Basin-focused oil and gas producer, with its operations centered on the Midland Basin. Its large footprint covers about 902,000 net acres and includes nearly 9,000 drilling locations considered economic at $50 oil. The #3 Ranked company combines this deep inventory with multi-zone development, long laterals and a low-cost operating structure to improve well productivity and returns.
Diamondback also places a strong focus on cash generation and shareholder returns. Its 2026 plan targets higher oil production while holding Midland Basin well costs near $550 per foot. An investment-grade balance sheet, base dividends and a sizable share-repurchase program add financial flexibility through commodity cycles.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the company’s 2026 earnings per share indicates 50.6% year-over-year growth. Over the past 60 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for Diamondback’s 2026 earnings has moved up from $19.25 per share to $20.14.
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Zacks Investment Research is under common control with affiliated entities (including a broker-dealer and an investment adviser), which may engage in transactions involving the foregoing securities for the clients of such affiliates.
Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Inherent in any investment is the potential for loss. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and nothing herein constitutes investment, legal, accounting or tax advice, or a recommendation to buy, sell or hold a security. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. It should not be assumed that any investments in securities, companies, sectors or markets identified and described were or will be profitable. All information is current as of the date of herein and is subject to change without notice. Any views or opinions expressed may not reflect those of the firm as a whole. Zacks Investment Research does not engage in investment banking, market making or asset management activities of any securities. These returns are from hypothetical portfolios consisting of stocks with Zacks Rank = 1 that were rebalanced monthly with zero transaction costs. These are not the returns of actual portfolios of stocks. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged index. Visit https://www.zacks.com/performance for information about the performance numbers displayed in this press release.
The Zacks Oil and Gas - Exploration and Production - United States industry is entering a constructive phase as stronger commodity fundamentals meet improving operating efficiency. Lean global oil inventories continue to support the pricing backdrop, while advances in drilling, longer laterals and automation are helping producers generate more output from each dollar spent. Natural gas is another bright spot, with LNG exports, power generation and data-center demand creating new growth avenues. Risks remain. Oil and gas prices can swing sharply, and higher service, fuel and equipment costs may pressure margins. Even so, improving earnings estimates and the industry’s favorable Zacks Industry Rank point to encouraging near-term prospects. Within the group, W&T Offshore (WTI - Free Report) , APA Corporation (APA - Free Report) and Diamondback Energy (FANG - Free Report) stand out, supported by solid production bases, disciplined capital spending, cost-control efforts and multiple avenues for longer-term growth.
About the Industry The Zacks Oil and Gas - US E&P industry consists of companies primarily based in the domestic market and focused on the exploration and production (E&P) of oil and natural gas. These firms find hydrocarbon reservoirs, drill oil and gas wells, and produce and sell these materials to be refined later into products such as gasoline, fuel oil, distillate, etc. The economics of oil and gas supply and demand are the fundamental drivers of this industry. In particular, a producer’s cash flow is primarily determined by the realized commodity prices. In fact, all E&P companies' results are vulnerable to historically volatile prices in the energy markets. A change in realizations affects their returns, causing them to alter their production growth rates. The E&P operators are also exposed to exploration risks where drilling results are comparatively uncertain.
4 Key Trends to Watch in the Oil and Gas - US E&P Industry Tight Global Inventories Support the Oil Price Outlook: Global crude and refined-product inventories remain relatively lean, creating a supportive backdrop for U.S. exploration and production companies. Oil drawn from storage eventually needs to be replaced unless demand weakens permanently. This restocking requirement could provide an underlying source of demand even when geopolitical headlines cause short-term price swings. A firmer oil-price environment generally improves drilling economics, supports reserve values and gives producers more confidence to maintain or selectively raise activity. Still, disciplined operators are likely to remain flexible, adjusting spending as commodity signals change.
Efficiency Gains Are Stretching Every Capital Dollar: U.S. producers are getting more output from fewer rigs and lower levels of sustaining capital as drilling, completion and field-management practices improve. Better well designs, longer laterals, faster drilling, automation and more efficient completion techniques are helping operators lower costs per unit of production. This matters because stronger capital efficiency can protect margins when service or fuel costs rise. It also allows producers to maintain production with less spending, freeing more cash for debt reduction, shareholder returns or selective growth. Continued technological improvements could further strengthen industry economics over time.
Natural Gas Demand Is Opening New Growth Channels: The outlook for U.S. natural gas is becoming broader as LNG exports, power generation and data-center development create additional sources of demand. Expanding pipeline capacity can also improve access from producing basins to Gulf Coast markets, reducing local transportation bottlenecks. For E&P companies with meaningful gas exposure, stronger connectivity could improve realized pricing and make associated gas production more valuable. Rising electricity needs from large computing facilities add another possible demand driver. Together, domestic power consumption and growing LNG infrastructure could provide a stronger long-term outlet for U.S. natural gas supply.
Cost Inflation and Commodity Volatility Remain Key Risks: The E&P industry remains highly sensitive to commodity prices, while operating and development costs can rise when drilling activity strengthens. Recent industry commentary points to pressure from fuel, casing, service costs, power and other consumables. If more rigs return to work, competition for equipment and labor could push costs higher, reducing the benefit of stronger oil and gas prices. Offshore producers also face sizable long-term decommissioning obligations. Efficiency improvements can offset part of these pressures, but a combination of weaker commodity prices and higher costs could quickly squeeze margins, cash flow and drilling returns.
Zacks Industry Rank Indicates Positive Outlook The Zacks Oil and Gas - US E&P industry is a 33-stock group within the broader Zacks Oil - Energy sector. The industry currently carries a Zacks Industry Rank #95, which places it in the top 38% of 248 Zacks industries.
The group’s Zacks Industry Rank, which is basically the average of the Zacks Rank of all the member stocks, indicates fairly strong near-term prospects. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperforms the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.
The industry’s position in the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries is a result of improving earnings outlook for the constituent companies in aggregate. Looking at the aggregate earnings estimate revisions, it appears that analysts are becoming optimistic about this group’s earnings growth potential. As a matter of fact, the industry’s earnings estimates for 2026 have gone up 41.5% in the past year.
Considering the encouraging dynamics of the industry, we will present a few stocks that you may want to consider for your portfolio. But it’s worth taking a look at the industry’s shareholder returns and current valuation first.
Industry Outperforms S&P 500 but Lags Sector The Zacks Oil and Gas - US E&P industry has fared worse than the broader Zacks Oil - Energy Sector, though it has outperformed the Zacks S&P 500 composite over the past year.
The industry has moved up 22.8% over this period against the broader sector’s increase of 37.3%. Meanwhile, the S&P 500 has gained some 16.9%.
One-Year Price Performance
Industry's Current Valuation Since oil and gas companies are debt-laden, it makes sense to value them based on the EV/EBITDA (Enterprise Value/ Earnings before Interest Tax Depreciation and Amortization) ratio. This is because the valuation metric takes into account not just equity but also the level of debt. For capital-intensive companies, EV/EBITDA is a better valuation metric because it is not influenced by changing capital structures and ignores the effect of noncash expenses.
On the basis of the trailing 12-month enterprise value-to-EBITDA (EV/EBITDA), the industry is currently trading at 11.24X, lower than the S&P 500’s 17.68X. It is, however, well above the sector’s trailing 12-month EV/EBITDA of 6.06X.
Over the past five years, the industry has traded as high as 17.10X and as low as 3.42X, with a median of 6.08X.
Trailing 12-Month Enterprise Value-to EBITDA (EV/EBITDA) Ratio (Past Five Years)
3 Stocks to Focus On W&T Offshore: W&T Offshore is an oil and gas producer focused on the Gulf of America, where it has operated for over four decades. The Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) company has built its business mainly through acquisitions of producing assets and drilling. Its portfolio spans 48 offshore fields, giving it exposure to both oil and natural gas across shallow-water and deepwater areas.
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
W&T aims to create value by lowering costs, extending field lives and increasing production from existing assets. It also pursues low-cost workovers, recompletions and acquisition opportunities as larger operators sell Gulf properties. Ownership of existing infrastructure can reduce development spending and speed up cash generation, while a project inventory provides options for future growth.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the company’s 2026 earnings per share indicates 75.7% year-over-year growth. Over the past 60 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for W&T Offshore’s 2026 loss has narrowed from 13 cents per share to 9 cents.
Price and Consensus: WTI
APA Corporation: APA Corporation is an oil and gas exploration and production company with operations in the United States, Egypt and the United Kingdom, alongside exploration interests in Suriname and other regions. Its core Permian and Egypt assets provide a steady cash-generating base, while management expects organic oil growth and continues working toward lower costs and debt.
The Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) company is also building its longer-term growth pipeline through exploration. Suriname’s GranMorgu development is expected to deliver first oil in mid-2028, with production capacity of 220,000 barrels per day. APA is also pursuing opportunities in Alaska and Uruguay, giving it several potential growth avenues beyond its established producing assets.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the company’s 2026 earnings per share indicates 51.2% year-over-year growth. Over the past 60 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for APA’s 2026 earnings has moved up from $5.14 per share to $5.70.
Price and Consensus: APA
Diamondback Energy: Diamondback Energy is a Permian Basin-focused oil and gas producer, with its operations centered on the Midland Basin. Its large footprint covers about 902,000 net acres and includes nearly 9,000 drilling locations considered economic at $50 oil. The #3 Ranked company combines this deep inventory with multi-zone development, long laterals and a low-cost operating structure to improve well productivity and returns.
Diamondback also places a strong focus on cash generation and shareholder returns. Its 2026 plan targets higher oil production while holding Midland Basin well costs near $550 per foot. An investment-grade balance sheet, base dividends and a sizable share-repurchase program add financial flexibility through commodity cycles.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the company’s 2026 earnings per share indicates 50.6% year-over-year growth. Over the past 60 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for Diamondback’s 2026 earnings has moved up from $19.25 per share to $20.14.
In the latest trading session, Diamondback Energy (FANG - Free Report) closed at $202.63, marking a +1.49% move from the previous day. The stock exceeded the S&P 500, which registered a loss of 0.48% for the day. Meanwhile, the Dow experienced a drop of 0.77%, and the technology-dominated Nasdaq saw a decrease of 0.64%.
Shares of the energy exploration and production company witnessed a loss of 1.02% over the previous month, trailing the performance of the Oils-Energy sector with its gain of 8.39%, and the S&P 500's loss of 0.97%.
Market participants will be closely following the financial results of Diamondback Energy in its upcoming release. The company is expected to report EPS of $4.66, up 51.3% from the prior-year quarter. At the same time, our most recent consensus estimate is projecting a revenue of $4.31 billion, reflecting a 9.83% rise from the equivalent quarter last year.
For the full year, the Zacks Consensus Estimates project earnings of $20.14 per share and a revenue of $18.42 billion, demonstrating changes of +50.64% and +22.56%, respectively, from the preceding year.
Any recent changes to analyst estimates for Diamondback Energy should also be noted by investors. These recent revisions tend to reflect the evolving nature of short-term business trends. As a result, we can interpret positive estimate revisions as a good sign for the business outlook.
Our research suggests that these changes in estimates have a direct relationship with upcoming stock price performance. To take advantage of this, we've established the Zacks Rank, an exclusive model that considers these estimated changes and delivers an operational rating system.
The Zacks Rank system, spanning from #1 (Strong Buy) to #5 (Strong Sell), boasts an impressive track record of outperformance, audited externally, with #1 ranked stocks yielding an average annual return of +25% since 1988. Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate has moved 3.26% higher. Currently, Diamondback Energy is carrying a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold).
In the context of valuation, Diamondback Energy is at present trading with a Forward P/E ratio of 9.91. This expresses a premium compared to the average Forward P/E of 9.74 of its industry.
The Oil and Gas - Exploration and Production - United States industry is part of the Oils-Energy sector. This group has a Zacks Industry Rank of 103, putting it in the top 42% of all 250+ industries.
The Zacks Industry Rank gauges the strength of our industry groups by measuring the average Zacks Rank of the individual stocks within the groups. Our research shows that the top 50% rated industries outperform the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1.
Be sure to use Zacks.com to monitor all these stock-influencing metrics, and more, throughout the forthcoming trading sessions.
Key Takeaways WTI crude above $95 is supporting Permian producers as EIA sees basin output rising this year.Diamondback Energy says its roughly 8,854 Permian locations remain economical at $50 oil.ExxonMobil and Chevron are using technology and scale in the Permian to boost recovery and production. Oil prices have been making headlines, as the Iran war shock has pushed commodity prices back toward their glory days. Although the tensions have made the stock market highly uncertain, energy stocks have retained their appeal. Is it time to keep an eye on stocks such as Diamondback Energy, Inc. (FANG - Free Report) , ExxonMobil Holdings Corporation (XOM - Free Report) and Chevron Corporation (CVX - Free Report) ?
High Oil Price to Aid Permian Producers?West Texas Intermediate (“WTI”) crude is trading at more than the $95-per-barrel mark. The high prices are being driven by intensifying conflicts in the Middle East. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (“EIA”) in its latest short-term energy outlook projected WTI at $80.88 per barrel this year, higher than $65.40 last year. A highly favorable pricing environment for the commodity is likely to continue supporting exploration and production activities.
In this regard, the upstream players that are operating in the Permian, the most prolific basin in the United States, are likely to continue to gain from the ongoing strength in oil prices. In the outlook, EIA estimated that total crude oil production in the Permian would be 6.78 million barrels per day this year, higher than 6.60 million barrels per day last year.
Thus, with high prices of the commodity, production will likely increase in the most prolific basin, aiding the bottom lines of explorers and producers operating in the basin.
3 Permian Players to GainDiamondback Energy is a well-known name among pure-play Permian players. In the prolific basin, FANG has a huge and high-quality drilling site, with the company estimating it at roughly 8,854 gross locations. The upstream energy major mentioned that those wells are economical even if the price of oil fell to $50 per barrel. Thus, with premium drilling inventories and an investment-grade balance sheet, Diamondback Energy, carrying a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), is likely to capitalize on the ongoing strength of oil prices.
ExxonMobil has a strong footprint in the Permian. In the Permian, the integrated giant has been employing lightweight proppant technology and hence has been capable of boosting its well recoveries. With the acquisition of Pioneer Natural Resources in 2024, XOM enhanced its footprint in the basin, further strengthening its production outlook while realizing significant cost synergies. Thus, XOM, with a Zacks Rank of 3, is also well poised to gain like FANG. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Chevron also has a strong footprint in the Permian. CVX mentioned that it has an interest in one of every five wells in the most prolific basin. Over the years, while growing its operations in the Permian, Zacks #3 Ranked CVX has been able to generate more production while employing lower capital spending, thanks to advanced drilling techniques. Chevron added that to increase its oil and gas volumes, it is now employing significantly fewer rigs. Thus, like XOM and FANG, CVX is also strongly positioned now.
Iran's latest threat against US energy assets in the Gulf sent oil past $91 a barrel, and the money is already rotating into a handful of names before most investors notice the trade is live.
Iran told Reuters on September 7 that US energy assets in the Gulf are vulnerable after the latest round of clashes, and the market is already pricing the threat: WTI printed $91.48 per barrel on September 1, up 9.0% in a week. If Tehran follows through, the money is already moving into the five names below. Miss the rotation and you are buying the top.
1. Transocean (The Rig Shortage No One Is Pricing) Transocean (NYSE:RIG | RIG Price Prediction) is a rig lessor. It owns and leases the ultra-deepwater and harsh-environment floaters that operators need when Middle East supply gets unreliable and majors race to sanction non-OPEC barrels. CEO Keelan Adamson told investors that “supply disruptions around the world, continued growth in oil and gas capex, and strong demand for our rigs all reinforce our view that we are in a multi-year upcycle for offshore drilling.”
The Q2 2026 numbers back him up. Transocean carries a $7.1 billion backlog at an implied average dayrate above $450,000, added $3.1 billion in contracts year to date including the Equinor award, and posted 97.0% fleet-wide revenue efficiency. Management expects deepwater utilization to move well into the 90% range during 2027.
The stock has already begun to move: RIG is up 88.71% over the past year and 41.65% year to date through September 4. That is the setup nobody is watching. The heavyweight below is the one everybody already owns.
2. Diamondback Energy (The Permian Cash Machine) Diamondback Energy (NASDAQ:FANG) is the pure-play US shale barrel that gets repriced every time an Iranian drone flies. Its production sits in the Permian, not the Persian Gulf, and its CEO Kaes Van’t Hof has been the loudest voice on Wall Street framing the trade. On the Q2 call he said “the disruption of oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz has triggered the largest supply shock in the history of the global oil market” and told investors he believes the restocking required to rebuild global inventories has structurally raised the floor for oil prices.
Q2 2026 turned that thesis into cash. Diamondback booked adjusted EPS of $6.48 on $5.56 billion in revenue, beating estimates by 8.32% and 12.3%, with a realized oil price of $96.82 per barrel versus $63.23 a year earlier and free cash flow of $2.33 billion. The board doubled the buyback authorization to $16.0 billion, with $9.9 billion remaining.
Shares are up 34.77% year to date through September 4. Fine. Now ask who monetizes the barrel after Diamondback pumps it.
3. Marathon Petroleum (The Refiner Running Hot) Marathon Petroleum (NYSE:MPC) is the crack-spread trade. When Gulf tensions curtail foreign refinery runs and US fuel prices hit a record Labor Day high, according to the Associated Press, MPC captures the spread. Management said on the Q2 call that global refining downtime is running roughly 4 million barrels per day above historical norms, driven by Persian Gulf disruptions and Ukrainian strikes on Russian infrastructure.
Q2 results were a monster. MPC delivered EPS of $17.73 versus a $13.9518 consensus, revenue of $51.99 billion, and R&M margin of $36.33 per barrel versus $17.58 a year earlier. Systemwide crude utilization ran 94%, with Gulf Coast refineries at 100%, and the company returned over $2.8 billion to shareholders in the quarter with $6.1 billion left on the buyback.
The market has noticed. MPC is up 141.93% year to date and 30.97% in the past month alone through September 4. Which brings us to the ships that move the barrels the refiners cannot get any other way.
Marathon Petroleum Refining Snapshot Metric Q2 2026 Year Ago R&M adjusted EBITDA $6.66B $1.89B R&M margin per barrel $36.33 $17.58 Net income to MPC $5.14B $1.22B 4. Scorpio Tankers (The Rerouting Trade) Scorpio Tankers (NYSE:STNG) operates the product tankers that carry gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel around the world. When Hormuz traffic reroutes and Red Sea risk pushes owners around the Cape of Good Hope, sailing distances balloon and ton-mile demand spikes. Management described the setup bluntly: “I’ve never seen a July or August market like this. This is not what you would consider to be a normal summer low.”
For Q2 Scorpio posted revenue of $408.73 million, up 77.5% year over year, and average daily TCE revenue more than doubled to $52,661 from $25,569. Q3 is already booking at elevated levels: LR2 spot rates at $65,000 per day with 34% booked, MR at $29,000 per day with 46% booked. The balance sheet is fortified with roughly $2.0 billion of unrestricted cash plus a $483.2 million undrawn revolver.
STNG has rallied 64.86% year to date through September 4. Solid. But there is one operator whose fleet is levered directly to the choke point itself.
5. Frontline (The Payoff Trade on the Choke Point) Frontline (NYSE:FRO) is the pure-play VLCC and Suezmax operator whose earnings live and die by the Strait of Hormuz. CEO Lars Barstad did not hedge on the Q2 call: “The current market dwarfs the previous cycles.” Frontline cited an 82% reduction in crude oil exports from inside the Strait of Hormuz and a 23% increase in idling days per VLCC, both of which tighten effective fleet supply even as headline volumes fall.
Q2 delivered a profit of $659.2 million, or $2.96 per share, the best quarter Frontline has ever recorded, with Q2 VLCC TCE of $152,700 per day and Suezmax of $111,400 per day. Management then paid the money out: the latest declared dividend of $2.61 per share is the largest in Frontline’s recent history, and Barstad framed the capital-return posture starkly: “Our proposition to investors continues to be that we pay everything out.”
The market has already awarded the payoff. FRO is up 127.11% year to date and 133.08% over the past year through September 4. It is the cleanest way to own the choke point without predicting whether it closes.
Year-to-Date Price Performance Trade in One Breath Iran’s warning is the catalyst; the setup is already in motion. Offshore rigs get scarcer, US shale barrels get bid, refiners bank the crack, and the tankers that carry what is left charge whatever the market will pay. Every one of these names posted a blowout Q2 into the same disruption Tehran is now threatening to widen. Waiting for confirmation means paying up.
Contact [email protected] for any questions or corrections.
Diamondback Energy remains a Buy, trading at a conservative valuation with continued operational excellence and strong management. FANG reported a robust quarter, beating EPS and revenue estimates, with $2.33B Q2 Adj. FCF and $4.07B in H1, supporting buybacks and dividends alongside significant debt repayments. The Bryant Ranch project positions FANG to capitalize on data center energy demand, allocating 14–18% of gas output and enhancing midstream economics.
A month has gone by since the last earnings report for Diamondback Energy (FANG - Free Report) . Shares have added about 5.9% in that time frame, outperforming the S&P 500.
Will the recent positive trend continue leading up to its next earnings release, or is Diamondback due for a pullback? Well, first let's take a quick look at the latest earnings report in order to get a better handle on the recent drivers for Diamondback Energy, Inc. before we dive into how investors and analysts have reacted as of late.
Diamondback Energy Q2 Earnings Beat EstimatesDiamondback Energy reported second-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $6.48, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $5.96 and more than doubled from the year-ago adjusted profit of $2.67. The outperformance was driven by production growth and a 53.1% improvement in the year-over-year realized oil prices.
This Midland, TX-based oil and gas exploration and production company’s revenues of $5.6 billion increased more than 51% from the year-ago quarter and topped the Zacks Consensus Estimate by about 17%, fueled primarily by higher sales of oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids, increased sales of purchased oil and higher revenues from other operating income.
In the second quarter of 2026, Diamondback Energy generated free cash flow and adjusted free cash flow of $2.3 billion. Over the same period, it bought back nearly 756,385 common shares for roughly $141 million at an average price of $186.63 per share, excluding excise taxes.
In July, the board of directors increased the company's share repurchase authorization from $8 billion to $16 billion, effectively doubling the program's capacity. Following this increase, approximately $9.9 billion remains available for future share repurchases under the authorization.
FANG’s board of directors approved a base quarterly dividend of $1.10 per common share for the second quarter of 2026, payable on Aug. 20 to its stockholders of record on Aug. 13.
Q2 Production & Realized PricesFANG’s production of oil and natural gas averaged 1,017,659 barrels of oil equivalent per day (BOE/d), comprising 51.6% oil. The figure was up 10.6% from the year-ago quarter and beat our model estimate of 969,519.9 BOE/d. While crude and natural gas output increased 5.9% and 16.5% year over year, respectively, natural gas liquids volumes climbed 15.7%.
The average realized oil price during the quarter was $96.82 per barrel, 53.1% higher than the year-ago realization of $63.23. The figure also beat our estimate of $66.12 per barrel. Meanwhile, the average realized natural gas price decreased to a negative $2.15 per thousand cubic feet from 88 cents in the prior year. The figure was also below our model estimate of 60 cents. Overall, the upstream oil and gas company fetched $51.68 per barrel compared with $39.61 a year ago.
Costs & Financial PositionDiamondback Energy’s second-quarter cash operating cost was $10.96 per BOE compared with $10.10 in the prior-year quarter and our estimate of $12.56. The increase in costs compared with the year-ago period reflected a rise in lease operating expenses to $5.96 per BOE from $5.26 in the second quarter of 2025 and an increase in Production and ad valorem taxes to $3.26 per BOE from $2.56 in the prior-year quarter.
However, FANG’s gathering, processing and transportation expenses decreased 29.5% year over year to $1.22 per BOE. Cash G&A expenses also fell in the second quarter of 2026 to 52 cents per BOE from 55 cents in the corresponding period of 2025.
Diamondback Energy logged $996 million in capital expenditure — spending $842 million on operated drilling and completion additions to oil and natural gas properties, and $154 million on non-operated additions. The company booked $2.3 billion in adjusted free cash flow in the second quarter.
As of June 30, the Permian-focused operator had approximately $462 million in cash and cash equivalents and $11.1 billion in long-term debt, representing a debt-to-capitalization of 20.1%.
Q3 & 2026 GuidanceDiamondback Energy updated its 2026 guidance by raising its full-year oil production outlook to more than 522 MBO/d, up from the previous guidance of more than 520 MBO/d, and increasing its total production forecast to over 1,000 MBOE/d from more than 972 MBOE/d. The company maintained its full-year cash capital expenditure guidance at approximately $3.9 billion.
For the third quarter of 2026, the company expects oil production to range between 517 MBO/d and 527 MBO/d, with total combined production projected at 995-1,015 MBOE/d. Third-quarter cash capital expenditures are expected to be between $950 million and $1.05 billion.
How Have Estimates Been Moving Since Then?Since the earnings release, investors have witnessed a upward trend in fresh estimates.
The consensus estimate has shifted 11.98% due to these changes.
VGM ScoresAt this time, Diamondback has a great Growth Score of A, a grade with the same score on the momentum front. Charting a somewhat similar path, the stock was allocated a score of B on the value side, putting it in the top 40% for value investors.
Overall, the stock has an aggregate VGM Score of A. If you aren't focused on one strategy, this score is the one you should be interested in.
OutlookEstimates have been broadly trending upward for the stock, and the magnitude of these revisions looks promising. Interestingly, Diamondback has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). We expect an in-line return from the stock in the next few months.
Performance of an Industry PlayerDiamondback is part of the Zacks Oil and Gas - Exploration and Production - United States industry. Over the past month, Comstock Resources (CRK - Free Report) , a stock from the same industry, has gained 20.5%. The company reported its results for the quarter ended June 2026 more than a month ago.
Comstock reported revenues of $353.28 million in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of -24.9%. EPS of $0.03 for the same period compares with $0.13 a year ago.
For the current quarter, Comstock is expected to post earnings of $0.06 per share, indicating a change of -33.3% from the year-ago quarter. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has changed -36.8% over the last 30 days.
Comstock has a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell) based on the overall direction and magnitude of estimate revisions. Additionally, the stock has a VGM Score of D.
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Value ScoreFor value investors, it's all about finding good stocks at good prices, and discovering which companies are trading under their true value before the broader market catches on. The Value Style Score utilizes ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and a host of other multiples to help pick out the most attractive and discounted stocks.
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Stock to Watch: Diamondback Energy (FANG - Free Report) Founded in 2007, Midland, TX-headquartered Diamondback Energy, Inc. is an independent oil and gas exploration and production company with its primary focus on the Permian Basin, where it has approximately 902,005 net acres. Its activities are concentrated in the Wolfcamp, Spraberry and Bone Spring formations.
FANG is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of A.
Momentum investors should take note of this Oils-Energy stock. FANG has a Momentum Style Score of A, and shares are up 0.9% over the past four weeks.
Four analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days for fiscal 2026. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.80 to $20.13 per share. FANG boasts an average earnings surprise of +7.1%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Momentum and VGM Style Scores, FANG should be on investors' short list.
Bank of Nova Scotia bought a new stake in shares of Diamondback Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:FANG – Free Report) in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The firm bought 28,279 shares of the oil and natural gas company’s stock, valued at approximately $4,971,000.
Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. Compass Financial Management LLC acquired a new stake in Diamondback Energy in the second quarter valued at approximately $63,000. Elevation Point Wealth Partners LLC acquired a new position in shares of Diamondback Energy during the 2nd quarter worth $1,493,000. Daiichi Life Insurance Co. Ltd. acquired a new position in shares of Diamondback Energy during the 2nd quarter worth $1,243,000. Commerce Bank bought a new position in shares of Diamondback Energy during the 2nd quarter valued at $14,457,000. Finally, GQG Partners LLC bought a new position in shares of Diamondback Energy during the 2nd quarter valued at $103,192,000. 90.01% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.
Insiders Place Their Bets In other Diamondback Energy news, EVP Matt Zmigrosky sold 5,000 shares of the business’s stock in a transaction dated Monday, June 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $200.54, for a total value of $1,002,700.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president directly owned 46,392 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $9,303,451.68. The trade was a 9.73% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, Director Mark Lawrence Plaumann sold 500 shares of the business’s stock in a transaction on Tuesday, June 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $196.50, for a total value of $98,250.00. Following the sale, the director owned 13,437 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $2,640,370.50. The trade was a 3.59% decrease in their position. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. In the last 90 days, insiders have sold 129,167 shares of company stock worth $24,714,309. 0.64% of the stock is owned by company insiders.
Diamondback Energy Trading Down 2.8% Diamondback Energy stock opened at $199.89 on Wednesday. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $192.34 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $189.96. The company has a quick ratio of 0.45, a current ratio of 0.47 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.25. The stock has a market cap of $55.97 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 38.96 and a beta of 0.43. Diamondback Energy, Inc. has a 12 month low of $134.30 and a 12 month high of $216.90. Diamondback Energy (NASDAQ:FANG – Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Monday, August 3rd. The oil and natural gas company reported $6.48 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $6.08 by $0.40. Diamondback Energy had a net margin of 8.58% and a return on equity of 10.10%. The firm had revenue of $5.56 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.89 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $2.38 EPS. The business’s revenue for the quarter was up 51.2% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities analysts forecast that Diamondback Energy, Inc. will post 20.13 EPS for the current year.
Diamondback Energy Announces Dividend The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, August 20th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, August 13th were given a $1.10 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, August 13th. This represents a $4.40 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.2%. Diamondback Energy’s payout ratio is presently 85.77%.
Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several research firms have recently issued reports on FANG. Roth Capital set a $212.00 price target on Diamondback Energy and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a research note on Monday, June 22nd. Wells Fargo & Company raised their price objective on Diamondback Energy from $262.00 to $263.00 and gave the company an “overweight” rating in a research note on Wednesday, August 5th. Truist Financial boosted their target price on Diamondback Energy from $220.00 to $224.00 and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a report on Wednesday, August 5th. Raymond James Financial reaffirmed a “strong-buy” rating and set a $248.00 target price on shares of Diamondback Energy in a research report on Friday, July 31st. Finally, Sanford C. Bernstein increased their price target on Diamondback Energy from $237.00 to $241.00 and gave the company an “outperform” rating in a report on Monday, May 11th. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fifteen have issued a Buy rating and five have given a Hold rating to the company’s stock. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of “Moderate Buy” and a consensus target price of $222.21.
Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Diamondback Energy
Diamondback Energy Profile (Free Report)
Diamondback Energy, Inc (NASDAQ: FANG) is an independent oil and natural gas company focused on the development, exploration and production of unconventional resources in the Permian Basin. Headquartered in Midland, Texas, the company concentrates its operations in the core Midland and Delaware sub‑basins of West Texas and southeastern New Mexico, where it pursues contiguous acreage positions to support repeatable drilling programs.
Diamondback’s activities span the upstream value chain, including leasehold acquisition, well planning, drilling, completion and production optimization.
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Matthew Kaes Van'T Hof, Chief Executive Officer of Diamondback Energy, Inc. (FANG -1.42%), sold 10,000 shares of common stock on Aug. 20, 2026, according to a recent SEC Form 4 filing.
Transaction summaryMetricValueTransaction value$2.1 millionShares sold (directly held)10,000Post-transaction shares (directly held)~116,000Post-transaction value$24.47 millionTransaction value based on SEC Form 4 weighted average sale price ($214.66); post-transaction value based on Aug. 20, 2026, market close ($211.02).
Key questionsWhat were the execution details of this sale?
The shares were sold in multiple transactions at prices ranging from $214.015 to $215.07 per share on Aug. 20, 2026, resulting in a weighted average price of $214.66.How much direct equity does the CEO retain in the firm?
Following this transaction, Matthew Kaes Van'T Hof directly holds ~116,000 shares of common stock, representing a total beneficial ownership stake of 0.0412%.What is the current market valuation and operational scale of the company?
As of the Aug. 21, 2026 market close, the Midland-based energy firm maintains a market capitalization of $59.3 billion and generated trailing-twelve-month revenue of $17.1 billion.In what pricing context did this transaction occur?
The sale was executed at $214.66, approximately 53% higher than its level one year prior to the transaction date.Company OverviewMetricValueShare Price (as of market close 2026-08-21)$210.72Market Capitalization$59.3 billionRevenue (TTM)$17.1 billionNet Income (TTM)$1.6 billionCompany SnapshotDiamondback Energy engages in the acquisition, development, exploration, and production of unconventional and onshore oil and natural gas reserves, with primary operations concentrated in the Permian Basin across West Texas and New Mexico, targeting formations including the Spraberry, Wolfcamp, and Bone Spring.The company generates revenue through the extraction and sale of crude oil and natural gas, operating an integrated upstream business model that captures value across the full hydrocarbon production lifecycle, from exploration through commercialization.Diamondback serves global energy markets and downstream customers, including refineries, petrochemical facilities, and energy traders, positioning itself within the broader crude oil and natural gas supply chain serving industrial and commercial end-users.Diamondback Energy operates as a mid-cap independent oil and gas exploration and production company with significant scale, commanding a $59.3 billion market capitalization and generating $17.1 billion in TTM revenue. The company's competitive positioning is anchored by its substantial acreage position in the Permian Basin, one of the world's most prolific and lowest-cost hydrocarbon production regions, enabling operational efficiency and margin expansion. With a 53.06% one-year stock price appreciation, Diamondback has demonstrated strong capital appreciation, reflecting both commodity price dynamics and operational execution within the energy sector.
What this transaction means for investorsInsider transactions aren't the final word on a stock. In fact, many occur for reasons having little, if anything, to do with a company's performance. Insiders sell as part of pre-arranged sales plans, for tax withholding, and for estate planning, for example. Therefore, investors should always return to a company's fundamentals to get a true measure of how it is performing -- and whether it is a smart investment. With that in mind, let's have a look at Diamondback Energy (FANG).
Firstly, FANG has performed very well over the last few years. Since 2021, FANG has generated a total return of 238%, equating to a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 27.6%. That's well ahead of the S&P 500, which has delivered a total return of 84% over this same period, with a CAGR of 12.9%.
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One reason FANG has performed so well is that it is a cash-flow juggernaut. The company has grown its free cash flow from just under $2.0 billion in 2021 to nearly $6.5 billion now. In turn, FANG has delivered massive shareholder returns through two mechanisms. First, it has aggressively bought back its own shares. Second, it has increased its dividend; its dividend yield now stands at 2.1%.
All in all, FANG is an energy stock worth considering, given its solid long-term performance and steady cash flow.
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Each stock is assigned a rating of A, B, C, D, or F based on their value, growth, and momentum characteristics. Just like in school, an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on -- that means the better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform.
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Value ScoreFinding good stocks at good prices, and discovering which companies are trading under their true value, are what value investors like to focus on. So, the Value Style Score takes into account ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and a host of other multiples to highlight the most attractive and discounted stocks.
Growth ScoreGrowth investors, on the other hand, are more concerned with a company's financial strength and health, and its future outlook. The Growth Style Score examines things like projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow to find stocks that will experience sustainable growth over time.
Momentum ScoreMomentum investors, who live by the saying "the trend is your friend," are most interested in taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook. Utilizing one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates, among other factors, the Momentum Style Score can help determine favorable times to buy high-momentum stocks.
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How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank The Zacks Rank, which is a proprietary stock-rating model, employs earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings expectations, to make building a winning portfolio easier.
Investors can count on the Zacks Rank's success, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +23.8% average annual return since 1988, more than double the S&P 500's performance. But the model rates a large number of stocks, and there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.
This totals more than 800 top-rated stocks, and it can be overwhelming to try and pick the best stocks for you and your portfolio.
That's where the Style Scores come in.
To have the best chance of big returns, you'll want to always consider stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B, which will give you the highest probability of success. If you're looking at stocks with a #3 (Hold) rank, it's important they have Scores of A or B as well to ensure as much upside potential as possible.
As mentioned above, the Scores are designed to work with the Zacks Rank, so any change to a company's earnings outlook should be a deciding factor when picking which stocks to buy.
A stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, for instance, even one with Scores of A and B, will still have a declining earnings forecast, and a greater chance its share price will fall too.
Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.
Stock to Watch: Diamondback Energy (FANG - Free Report) Founded in 2007, Midland, TX-headquartered Diamondback Energy, Inc. is an independent oil and gas exploration and production company with its primary focus on the Permian Basin, where it has approximately 902,005 net acres. Its activities are concentrated in the Wolfcamp, Spraberry and Bone Spring formations.
FANG is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of A.
Additionally, the company could be a top pick for growth investors. FANG has a Growth Style Score of A, forecasting year-over-year earnings growth of 50.6% for the current fiscal year.
Four analysts revised their earnings estimate higher in the last 60 days for fiscal 2026, while the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.66 to $20.13 per share. FANG also boasts an average earnings surprise of +7.1%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Growth and VGM Style Scores, FANG should be on investors' short list.
Key Takeaways Permian producers stand to gain as WTI trades above $80 and basin output is projected to rise this year.Diamondback Energy estimates 8,854 gross Permian drilling locations, with wells economical at $50 oil.ExxonMobil and Chevron use technology and scale in the Permian to boost recoveries and production. Oil prices have been making newspaper headlines, as the Middle East conflict has pushed commodity prices higher and kept them elevated. Although the tensions have made the stock market highly uncertain, energy stocks have retained their appeal. Diamondback Energy, Inc. (FANG - Free Report) , ExxonMobil Holdings Corporation (XOM - Free Report) and Chevron Corporation (CVX - Free Report) are some players that are likely to gain amid this backdrop.
High Oil Price: Sweet Spot for Permian Producers?West Texas Intermediate (“WTI”) crude is trading above $80 per barrel. The high prices are being driven by ongoing tensions in the Middle East. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (“EIA”) in its latest short-term energy outlook projected WTI at $80.88 per barrel this year, higher than $65.40 last year. A highly favorable pricing environment for the commodity is likely to continue supporting exploration and production activities.
In this regard, the upstream players that are operating in the Permian, the most prolific basin in the United States, are likely to continue to gain from the ongoing strength in oil prices. In the outlook, EIA estimated that total crude oil production in the Permian would be 6.78 million barrels per day this year, higher than 6.60 million barrels per day last year.
Thus, with high prices of the commodity, production will likely increase in the most prolific basin, aiding the bottom lines of explorers and producers operating in the basin.
3 Permian Players in the SpotlightDiamondback Energy is a well-known pure-play Permian player. In the prolific basin, FANG has a huge and high-quality drilling site, with the company estimating it at roughly 8,854 gross locations. The upstream energy major mentioned that those wells are economical even if the price of oil fell to $50 per barrel. Thus, with premium drilling inventories and an investment-grade balance sheet, Diamondback Energy, carrying a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), is likely to capitalize on the ongoing strength of oil prices.
ExxonMobil has a strong footprint in the Permian and is among the key assets that the energy major believes will contribute to its long-term production growth. In the Permian, the integrated giant has been employing lightweight proppant technology and hence has been capable of boosting its well recoveries. With the acquisition of Pioneer Natural Resources in 2024, XOM enhanced its footprint in the basin, further strengthening its production outlook while realizing significant cost synergies. Thus, XOM, with a Zacks Rank of 3, is well-positioned to gain like FANG. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Chevron also has a strong footprint in the Permian. CVX mentioned that it has an interest in one of every five wells in the most prolific basin. Over the years, while growing its operations in the Permian, Zacks #3 Ranked CVX has been able to generate more production while using lower capital spending, thanks to advanced drilling techniques. Thus, like XOM and FANG, CVX is also strongly placed now.
Inflation data, earnings reports and tensions in the Middle East have been influencing the market. In this volatile backdrop, investors seeking income can bolster their portfolios by adding dividend-paying stocks.
The recommendations of top Wall Street analysts can help inform investors in their search for attractive stocks from the vast universe of dividend-paying companies. These experts assign ratings after analyzing a company's financials and ability to consistently pay dividends while also seeking capital appreciation.
Here are three dividend-paying stocks that are highlighted by Wall Street's top pros, as tracked by TipRanks, a platform that ranks analysts based on their past performance.
Exxon MobilIntegrated oil and gas giant Exxon Mobil has increased its dividends for 43 consecutive years. At a quarterly dividend of $1.03 per share (annualized dividend of $4.12), XOM stock offers a yield of 2.6%.
In his latest research report on energy players, Morgan Stanley analyst Devin McDermott reiterated a buy rating on Exxon Mobil stock and increased his price target to $177 from $168.
The analyst raised his free cash flow estimates to reflect Q2 guidance and the oil price strip, with the largest increase noted for integrated players due to higher refining margins. Notably, the five-star analyst raised his cash flow estimates by an average of 20% for the second half of 2026 and 7% for 2027.
McDermott highlighted that while pure-play refiners have rallied on stronger margins, integrated energy stocks have lagged, creating relative-value opportunities in major North American integrated producers, including Exxon Mobil, Suncor and Cenovus Energy.
Overall, McDermott is bullish on Exxon Mobil, as he expects the company to deliver strong earnings and cash flow growth, driven by robust upstream volumes, high-value projects in Product Solutions, and more than $5 billion of additional structural cost savings.
"XOM's large global integrated operations and strong balance sheet (0.0x 2027 net leverage) make it a clear defensive play in an uncertain macro backdrop," said McDermott.
McDermott ranks No. 726 among more than 12,490 analysts tracked by TipRanks. His ratings have been profitable 59% of the time, delivering an average return of 9.80%. See Exxon Mobil Stock Buybacks on TipRanks.
Expand EnergyMoving on to natural gas producer Expand Energy. The company announced a quarterly base dividend of $0.575 per share to be paid on Sept. 3. At an annualized dividend of $2.30 per share, EXE offers a yield of about 2.3%.
Recently, Goldman Sachs analyst Neil Mehta reaffirmed a buy rating on Expand Energy stock and increased his price target to $113 from $99. Mehta attributed his higher price target to cash flow improvement and a strong outlook for shareholder returns. He also cited the stock's attractive valuation, with an 11% free cash flow, or FCF, yield based on his 2027/2028 estimates compared with the peer average of 9%.
The five-star analyst expects Expand Energy to generate FCF per share of about $10 in FY28, up from the prior estimate of about $8 at his mid-cycle price forecast of $3.50/MMBtu Henry Hub. Mehta raised his FCF estimate to reflect an improved outlook for share repurchases, operational efficiencies, and gas pricing realizations.
Furthermore, the analyst expects the recently announced $1.25 billion Twin Eagle acquisition to enhance the competitive positioning of the combined business to expand to premium markets and capture incremental deals in the power and LNG end markets.
Mehta ranks No. 449 among more than 12,490 analysts tracked by TipRanks. His ratings have been successful 64% of the time, delivering an average return of 12.1%. See Expand Energy Insider Trading on TipRanks.
Diamondback EnergyMehta is also bullish on Diamondback Energy, an independent oil and natural gas company focused on energy reserves that are primarily in the Permian Basin in West Texas. The company recently paid a base cash dividend of $1.10 per share for the second quarter of 2026. FANG stock offers a dividend yield of 2.2%.
Mehta increased his price target on FANG stock to $220 from $212 and reiterated a buy rating, citing the company's capital-efficient volume growth as oil prices remain high amid persistent supply disruption in the Middle East.
"We remain constructive on FANG, a high-quality, pure-play Permian Basin operator that continues to drive incremental capital efficiencies and strong well productivity relative to peers," said Mehta.
Also, the analyst said that the removal of a minimum return of capital commitment gives Diamondback more flexibility in taking capital allocation decisions amid high oil price volatility and macro uncertainty.
Mehta added that Diamondback sees a favorable environment for production growth, driven by the potential need for global inventory restocking. He highlighted that during Q2 2026, FANG's production volumes of 1,018 Mboe/d exceeded the high end of the company's guidance, driven by a stronger-than-expected natural gas output from Barnett development and improved downstream gas marketing.
Overall, Mehta is optimistic about Diamondback's growth and sees more upside in the stock, given higher production estimates, solid productivity and a deepening position in the Barnett shale formation. See Diamondback Energy Financials on TipRanks.
Callan Family Office LLC purchased a new stake in Diamondback Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: FANG) during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm purchased 12,186 shares of the oil and natural gas company's stock, valued at approximately $2,142,000. A
Allworth Financial LP acquired a new position in Diamondback Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:FANG – Free Report) in the second quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor acquired 11,812 shares of the oil and natural gas company’s stock, valued at approximately $2,076,000.
Several other large investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Laurel Wealth Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of Diamondback Energy during the fourth quarter valued at $26,000. Cedar Mountain Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in Diamondback Energy in the first quarter worth about $26,000. JPL Wealth Management LLC acquired a new position in Diamondback Energy during the 3rd quarter valued at about $26,000. Wellington Shields & Co. LLC raised its position in shares of Diamondback Energy by 264.7% during the 4th quarter. Wellington Shields & Co. LLC now owns 186 shares of the oil and natural gas company’s stock worth $28,000 after buying an additional 135 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Meeder Asset Management Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Diamondback Energy during the 2nd quarter worth about $28,000. 90.01% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.
Insider Buying and Selling at Diamondback Energy In related news, CAO Teresa L. Dick sold 7,000 shares of the firm’s stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, June 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $200.90, for a total value of $1,406,300.00. Following the transaction, the chief accounting officer directly owned 85,755 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $17,228,179.50. This trade represents a 7.55% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Also, EVP Matt Zmigrosky sold 5,000 shares of Diamondback Energy stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, June 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $200.54, for a total transaction of $1,002,700.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president directly owned 46,392 shares in the company, valued at approximately $9,303,451.68. This represents a 9.73% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Insiders have sold a total of 129,167 shares of company stock worth $24,714,309 over the last quarter. Company insiders own 0.64% of the company’s stock.
Diamondback Energy Trading Down 0.1% NASDAQ FANG opened at $210.72 on Friday. Diamondback Energy, Inc. has a 1-year low of $134.30 and a 1-year high of $216.90. The company has a current ratio of 0.47, a quick ratio of 0.45 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.25. The company has a market capitalization of $59.01 billion, a PE ratio of 41.08 and a beta of 0.43. The firm’s fifty day simple moving average is $191.79 and its 200-day simple moving average is $189.22. Diamondback Energy (NASDAQ:FANG – Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Monday, August 3rd. The oil and natural gas company reported $6.48 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts’ consensus estimates of $6.08 by $0.40. Diamondback Energy had a return on equity of 10.10% and a net margin of 8.58%.The firm had revenue of $5.56 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts’ expectations of $4.89 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $2.38 earnings per share. The business’s revenue for the quarter was up 51.2% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that Diamondback Energy, Inc. will post 19.78 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.
Diamondback Energy Dividend Announcement The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, August 20th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, August 13th were paid a dividend of $1.10 per share. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, August 13th. This represents a $4.40 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.1%. Diamondback Energy’s dividend payout ratio is 85.77%.
Analyst Ratings Changes FANG has been the topic of a number of research reports. Citigroup dropped their price objective on Diamondback Energy from $221.00 to $220.00 and set a “buy” rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, August 10th. Roth Capital set a $212.00 target price on Diamondback Energy and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a report on Monday, June 22nd. Wolfe Research reiterated an “outperform” rating and issued a $206.00 price target on shares of Diamondback Energy in a research report on Tuesday, August 4th. UBS Group cut their price target on shares of Diamondback Energy from $246.00 to $243.00 and set a “buy” rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, July 21st. Finally, Zacks Research cut shares of Diamondback Energy from a “strong-buy” rating to a “hold” rating in a research note on Thursday, May 28th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, sixteen have given a Buy rating and five have given a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” and an average target price of $222.21.
Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on FANG
Diamondback Energy Company Profile (Free Report)
Diamondback Energy, Inc (NASDAQ: FANG) is an independent oil and natural gas company focused on the development, exploration and production of unconventional resources in the Permian Basin. Headquartered in Midland, Texas, the company concentrates its operations in the core Midland and Delaware sub‑basins of West Texas and southeastern New Mexico, where it pursues contiguous acreage positions to support repeatable drilling programs.
Diamondback’s activities span the upstream value chain, including leasehold acquisition, well planning, drilling, completion and production optimization.
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Aurora Investment Counsel bought a new stake in Diamondback Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:FANG – Free Report) during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm bought 7,478 shares of the oil and natural gas company’s stock, valued at approximately $1,314,000.
A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Laurel Wealth Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of Diamondback Energy during the 4th quarter worth about $26,000. Cedar Mountain Advisors LLC bought a new stake in Diamondback Energy during the first quarter worth approximately $26,000. JPL Wealth Management LLC bought a new stake in Diamondback Energy during the third quarter worth approximately $26,000. Wellington Shields & Co. LLC raised its holdings in Diamondback Energy by 264.7% during the fourth quarter. Wellington Shields & Co. LLC now owns 186 shares of the oil and natural gas company’s stock worth $28,000 after purchasing an additional 135 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Meeder Asset Management Inc. acquired a new stake in Diamondback Energy in the second quarter worth approximately $28,000. Institutional investors own 90.01% of the company’s stock.
Insider Transactions at Diamondback Energy In related news, Director Charles Alvin Meloy sold 33,333 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, August 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $198.41, for a total value of $6,613,600.53. Following the transaction, the director owned 818,197 shares in the company, valued at approximately $162,338,466.77. This represents a 3.91% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. The transaction was executed under a pre-arranged Rule 10b5-1 trading plan. Also, EVP Matt Zmigrosky sold 5,000 shares of the firm’s stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, June 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $200.54, for a total transaction of $1,002,700.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president directly owned 46,392 shares in the company, valued at approximately $9,303,451.68. The trade was a 9.73% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Insiders sold 129,167 shares of company stock valued at $24,714,309 over the last 90 days. Company insiders own 0.64% of the company’s stock.
Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of equities analysts have issued reports on the company. Mizuho increased their price target on Diamondback Energy from $220.00 to $240.00 and gave the company an “outperform” rating in a research note on Wednesday, May 27th. Raymond James Financial restated a “strong-buy” rating and issued a $248.00 price objective on shares of Diamondback Energy in a report on Friday, July 31st. Susquehanna raised their target price on Diamondback Energy from $245.00 to $255.00 and gave the company a “positive” rating in a research note on Tuesday, July 21st. Weiss Ratings raised Diamondback Energy from a “hold (c-)” rating to a “hold (c)” rating in a report on Friday, July 31st. Finally, Roth Capital set a $212.00 target price on Diamondback Energy and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a report on Monday, June 22nd. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, sixteen have assigned a Buy rating and five have issued a Hold rating to the company’s stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” and an average target price of $222.21. View Our Latest Research Report on Diamondback Energy
Key Stories Impacting Diamondback Energy Here are the key news stories impacting Diamondback Energy this week:
Positive Sentiment: Morgan Stanley reaffirmed its Equal Weight rating but raised or maintained a $216 price target, implying modest upside from the referenced price. The target provides some support, though the neutral rating limits the bullish signal. Morgan Stanley rating report Positive Sentiment: Zacks Research increased its FY2028 EPS forecast to $15.37 from $14.83, suggesting potential longer-term earnings improvement. Diamondback Energy valuation and pipeline venture article Neutral Sentiment: Analysts continue to rate FANG Hold or Equal Weight, indicating neither a strong bullish nor bearish consensus. Diamondback’s Permian-to-Katy gas pipeline strategy and participation in the Solitude Pipeline venture could broaden its midstream exposure, but the investment benefits remain dependent on execution and future cash flows. Diamondback Permian-to-Katy gas pipeline article Negative Sentiment: Zacks Research cut several near- and medium-term forecasts: Q3 2026 EPS to $2.70 from $4.32, Q4 2026 to $3.11 from $4.19, FY2026 to $16.52 from $18.11, FY2027 to $14.95 from $16.42, Q4 2027 to $3.08 from $3.87, and Q1 2028 to $3.12 from $3.57. Additional reductions affected Q2 and Q3 2027 estimates. These revisions outweigh the isolated FY2028 increase and are likely pressuring the stock. Diamondback Energy Stock Down 0.7% FANG stock opened at $208.55 on Thursday. The company has a 50 day moving average of $191.03 and a two-hundred day moving average of $188.74. The company has a market cap of $58.40 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 40.65 and a beta of 0.43. Diamondback Energy, Inc. has a 12-month low of $134.30 and a 12-month high of $214.51. The company has a quick ratio of 0.45, a current ratio of 0.47 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.25.
Diamondback Energy (NASDAQ:FANG – Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Monday, August 3rd. The oil and natural gas company reported $6.48 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $6.08 by $0.40. Diamondback Energy had a net margin of 8.58% and a return on equity of 10.10%. The business had revenue of $5.56 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts’ expectations of $4.89 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $2.38 EPS. Diamondback Energy’s revenue was up 51.2% on a year-over-year basis. On average, equities analysts anticipate that Diamondback Energy, Inc. will post 19.3 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.
Diamondback Energy Announces Dividend The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, August 20th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, August 13th will be given a $1.10 dividend. This represents a $4.40 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.1%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, August 13th. Diamondback Energy’s dividend payout ratio is presently 85.77%.
(Free Report)
Diamondback Energy, Inc (NASDAQ: FANG) is an independent oil and natural gas company focused on the development, exploration and production of unconventional resources in the Permian Basin. Headquartered in Midland, Texas, the company concentrates its operations in the core Midland and Delaware sub‑basins of West Texas and southeastern New Mexico, where it pursues contiguous acreage positions to support repeatable drilling programs.
Diamondback’s activities span the upstream value chain, including leasehold acquisition, well planning, drilling, completion and production optimization.
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$134.30▼
$214.512.05%
41.54
$222.21
Diamondback Energy NASDAQ: FANG could not have timed it better.
Just as oil prices were soaring this year, the Texas-based company surpassed 1 million barrels of oil equivalent per day (BOE/d) for the first time in the company’s history.
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It’s no surprise, then, that the company is awash in cash. And it’s no real surprise that analysts rate the company a Buy.
The question for investors is whether the share price above $200 can survive if, or when, oil prices recede.
Scale Through Permian Basin ExpansionDiamondback didn’t reach that level of oil production by an accident of drilling.
The company spent the past decade rolling up the Permian Basin to become the largest pure-play operator in America's most productive oil patch.
Its biggest bets, a $26 billion merger with Endeavor Energy Resources in 2024 and the 2025 acquisition of Double Eagle subsidiaries, were wagers that the added value would pay off. Today, Diamondback sits just behind ExxonMobil and Chevron in terms of production in the Permian Basin.
Production Growth Drives Strong EarningsThis past quarter, the bet paid off.
Second-quarter revenue jumped 51.2% year-over-year (YOY) to $5.56 billion, well ahead of the roughly $4.89 billion Wall Street had predicted.
Adjusted earnings per share came in at $6.48, beating the $6.08 consensus, while net income more than doubled to $1.88 billion, or $6.65 per diluted share, more than twice the $699 million a year earlier. Adjusted EBITDA reached $3.55 billion, a margin of roughly 64% of revenue.
In all for the three months, average oil production hit 525,000 barrels per day, pushing total output past the 1-million (BOE/d) threshold.
Management responded by raising full-year guidance again, to more than 1 million BOE/d and 522,000 barrels of oil per day, up from 972,000 and 520,000 previously.
At the same time, it said it expected to hold capital spending steady at roughly $3.9 billion, meaning more production for the same budget.
Free Cash Flow Fuels Shareholder Returns Diamondback Energy Dividend Payments2.11%
$4.40
7 Years
21.67%
85.77%
Aug. 20
FANG Dividend History
For shareholders, the returns were real. Free cash flow for the second quarter reached $2.3 billion, up from $1.7 billion the previous quarter and $1.2 billion in the year-ago period. And Diamondback is leaning harder into returning that cash.
During the quarter, the company repurchased about $141 million of company shares and cut net debt by $1.6 billion to $12.3 billion.
The board also doubled the share buyback authorization to $16 billion from $8 billion in July, with roughly $9.9 billion still available as of July 31.
For income-oriented holders, the board raised the quarterly dividend earlier this year to $1.10 per share, putting the yield at around 2.1%.
Diamondback has grown its dividend for seven consecutive years and says the payout, as well as current production levels, are protected down to $36 per barrel of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude, well below where oil trades today.
Wall Street Remains Bullish on DiamondbackWall Street's take is decidedly favorable. Twenty-six analysts cover the stock with a consensus Buy rating, made up of four Strong Buys, 18 Buy ratings, and four analysts who suggest a Hold.
The average 12-month price target sits at $221.75, implying roughly 6% upside from recent prices, with targets ranging from $173 to $263.
Higher Oil Prices Bring Added RiskWith the current conditions, there are not many downsides. But current conditions in the oilfield rarely stay current for long. Much of Diamondback's recent strength is borrowed from a geopolitical shock, not organic demand growth.
Oil prices have surged since early 2026 because of the Iran war and the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz. West Texas Intermediate crude is currently trading at about $86 per barrel, up from about $57 at the start of the year, driven by one of the largest supply disruptions in oil-market history.
The industry has benefited big. Diamondback reported that the realized average price of oil in the latest quarter was $96.82 per barrel compared with $73.47 in the previous three months and up more than 50% from a year ago.
Prices are expected to stay high this year, according to the federal Energy Information Administration (EIA), which expects WTI to average $80.88 a barrel in 2026. But those prices are likely to fall next year, the EIA predicts, as the average price is expected to decline to just $65.39 in 2027 as disrupted flows normalize. And a sooner-than-expected ceasefire could squeeze Diamondback earnings even faster.
Diamondback Offers Upside With VolatilityEven with that understanding, Diamondback looks like a disciplined operator benefiting from both its own execution and maybe a once-in-a-decade spike in oil prices. The production milestone, guidance raise, and doubled buyback authorization all point to management converting scale into shareholder returns.
How long high oil prices continue is impossible to say, so this might not be a stock for investors who want a smooth ride or a business separate from geopolitical headlines.
But for long-term holders who know and are comfortable with commodity swings, Diamondback’s growing dividend, aggressive buybacks, and operational momentum make this a strong name to own through all the future energy noise.
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Capital Financial Group Inc. Co. ADV purchased a new position in Diamondback Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: FANG) during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm purchased 3,891 shares of the oil and natural gas company's stock, valued at approximately
Fielder Capital Group LLC purchased a new stake in Diamondback Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:FANG – Free Report) during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor purchased 8,812 shares of the oil and natural gas company’s stock, valued at approximately $1,549,000.
Several other hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in FANG. Cedar Mountain Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of Diamondback Energy in the 1st quarter valued at about $26,000. Laurel Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Diamondback Energy in the fourth quarter worth about $26,000. JPL Wealth Management LLC acquired a new stake in Diamondback Energy during the third quarter worth about $26,000. Wellington Shields & Co. LLC grew its holdings in Diamondback Energy by 264.7% during the fourth quarter. Wellington Shields & Co. LLC now owns 186 shares of the oil and natural gas company’s stock worth $28,000 after acquiring an additional 135 shares during the period. Finally, Global Assets Advisory LLC purchased a new position in Diamondback Energy during the first quarter valued at approximately $40,000. 90.01% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.
Insider Activity at Diamondback Energy In related news, EVP Matt Zmigrosky sold 5,000 shares of the company’s stock in a transaction dated Monday, June 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $200.54, for a total transaction of $1,002,700.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president owned 46,392 shares in the company, valued at $9,303,451.68. This represents a 9.73% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, CAO Teresa L. Dick sold 7,000 shares of the firm’s stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, June 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $200.90, for a total transaction of $1,406,300.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief accounting officer directly owned 85,755 shares in the company, valued at $17,228,179.50. This represents a 7.55% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Insiders have sold 134,167 shares of company stock worth $25,749,309 in the last ninety days. 0.64% of the stock is owned by company insiders.
Wall Street Analyst Weigh In FANG has been the subject of a number of analyst reports. Wall Street Zen raised Diamondback Energy from a “hold” rating to a “buy” rating in a report on Saturday, August 8th. Zacks Research cut shares of Diamondback Energy from a “strong-buy” rating to a “hold” rating in a research note on Thursday, May 28th. Morgan Stanley lowered their price target on shares of Diamondback Energy from $229.00 to $216.00 and set an “overweight” rating on the stock in a report on Monday, June 29th. Wells Fargo & Company lifted their price objective on shares of Diamondback Energy from $262.00 to $263.00 and gave the company an “overweight” rating in a report on Wednesday, August 5th. Finally, Raymond James Financial reiterated a “strong-buy” rating and issued a $248.00 price objective on shares of Diamondback Energy in a research report on Friday, July 31st. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eighteen have assigned a Buy rating and four have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Diamondback Energy has an average rating of “Buy” and an average price target of $222.30. Get Our Latest Analysis on FANG
Diamondback Energy Stock Performance Shares of FANG stock opened at $202.47 on Monday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.25, a current ratio of 0.47 and a quick ratio of 0.45. The company has a market cap of $56.70 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 39.47 and a beta of 0.43. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $190.31 and a 200-day simple moving average of $187.74. Diamondback Energy, Inc. has a 1-year low of $134.30 and a 1-year high of $214.51.
Diamondback Energy (NASDAQ:FANG – Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Monday, August 3rd. The oil and natural gas company reported $6.48 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts’ consensus estimates of $6.08 by $0.40. The firm had revenue of $5.56 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts’ expectations of $4.89 billion. Diamondback Energy had a net margin of 8.58% and a return on equity of 10.10%. The firm’s revenue for the quarter was up 51.2% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $2.38 EPS. On average, equities research analysts expect that Diamondback Energy, Inc. will post 19.73 EPS for the current fiscal year.
Diamondback Energy Announces Dividend The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, August 20th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, August 13th will be issued a dividend of $1.10 per share. This represents a $4.40 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.2%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, August 13th. Diamondback Energy’s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 85.77%.
Diamondback Energy Company Profile (Free Report)
Diamondback Energy, Inc (NASDAQ: FANG) is an independent oil and natural gas company focused on the development, exploration and production of unconventional resources in the Permian Basin. Headquartered in Midland, Texas, the company concentrates its operations in the core Midland and Delaware sub‑basins of West Texas and southeastern New Mexico, where it pursues contiguous acreage positions to support repeatable drilling programs.
Diamondback’s activities span the upstream value chain, including leasehold acquisition, well planning, drilling, completion and production optimization.
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Key Takeaways Diamondback raised 2026 oil and total production guidance while keeping full-year capex near $3.9 billion.FANG's Q2 earnings beat reflected production growth and a 53.1% year-over-year rise in realized oil prices.FANG's drilling gains support output growth, but commodity prices and service-cost inflation remain risks. Diamondback Energy, Inc. (FANG - Free Report) raised its 2026 production outlook after a second quarter that topped earnings expectations, while leaving its full-year capital budget unchanged. That combination puts capital efficiency at the center of the investment case.
Higher volumes could extend earnings momentum if operating gains keep costs contained. The test is whether Diamondback can sustain the larger production base without requiring a proportional increase in spending.
FANG Raises Output Without Raising Full-Year CapexDiamondback increased 2026 oil production guidance to 522+ thousand barrels per day from 520+ thousand barrels per day. Total production guidance rose to 1,000+ thousand barrels of oil equivalent per day from 972+ thousand barrels of oil equivalent per day.
Full-year cash capital expenditures remain about $3.9 billion. For the third quarter, FANG expects oil production of 517-527 thousand barrels per day, total production of 995-1,015 thousand barrels of oil equivalent per day and capital spending of $950 million to $1.05 billion.
Image Source: Diamondback Energy
Diamondback's Q2 Beat Builds a Stronger BaseSecond-quarter production reached 1.018 million barrels of oil equivalent per day, including 525 thousand barrels of oil per day. Adjusted earnings were $6.48 per share, topping the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $5.96.
Revenues of $5.6 billion increased more than 51% year over year and beat the consensus mark by about 17%. The earnings outperformance reflected production growth and a 53.1% year-over-year improvement in realized oil prices.
Image Source: Diamondback Energy
FANG's Efficiency Gains Support the Higher TargetDiamondback has improved well construction, targeting, stimulation and completion techniques. Management noted that wells that once took about 30 days to drill can now be drilled in roughly five days, while longer laterals and lower costs per foot are supporting well economics.
The focus is on combining more wells per section with higher production per well at a low cost per well. ConocoPhillips (COP - Free Report) also continues to emphasize capital discipline, reaffirming its full-year 2026 guidance after the second quarter. Occidental Petroleum Corporation (OXY - Free Report) reported second-quarter production above the high end of guidance while spending $1.6 billion on capital expenditures.
Diamondback's Growth Plan Still Carries Key RisksCommodity sensitivity remains the biggest constraint. A sustained crude-price decline could pressure cash flow, drilling economics and the economics of carrying a higher production base. Service-cost inflation is another concern, particularly for casing, fuel and other consumables.
Management estimates that maintaining the higher production base could require roughly $1 billion or slightly more of quarterly capital spending. Rising gas production adds another risk because Permian natural gas pricing can weaken when takeaway capacity is tight, limiting the benefit of stronger volumes.
FANG's Hold Signal Keeps Expectations GroundedThe higher guidance supports the case that Diamondback can preserve operating momentum without lifting its full-year capital budget. Still, the payoff depends on execution, commodity prices and the company’s ability to keep efficiency gains ahead of cost inflation.
FANG currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). It has a Growth Score of A, Momentum Score of A, Value Score of B and VGM Score of A. Those favorable Style Scores reflect attractive growth and momentum characteristics, while the Hold rank keeps the near-term view balanced as investors weigh commodity exposure, costs and execution risk.
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
SummaryDiamondback Energy (FANG) is rated Strong Buy, with a DCF-based target price of $290 per share, implying ~45% upside.FANG's low production costs ($25.09/BOE) and efficient capital allocation underpin robust free cash flow, even under conservative commodity price assumptions.Operational flexibility enables FANG to quickly adjust production, leveraging surfactant-enhanced well productivity and new pipeline capacity for higher realized prices.Valuation remains well-supported even at $70/bbl oil and $3.25/MMBtu gas, highlighting downside protection and significant upside at higher prices. grandriver/E+ via Getty Images
Diamondback Energy (FANG) is a shale exploration and production (E&P) company with operations focused on the Midland Basin portion of the Permian Basin in Texas. As of Q2, FANG controlled some 902,000 net acres in the region, producing some 525,000 bbl/day of crude
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