ConocoPhillips Outshines Viper Energy as the Better Energy Stock for 2026

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2▲1 ▼2Impact / 5
Summary · why it matters

ConocoPhillips is favored over Viper Energy as the better energy stock for 2026 due to its global diversification, scale, and dividend commitment. ConocoPhillips reported fiscal 2025 revenue of $61.6 billion, an 8% increase, with net income of approximately $8.0 billion and free cash flow near $7.2 billion, while maintaining a debt-to-equity ratio of about 0.4x. In contrast, Viper Energy, a mineral and royalty company primarily operated by Diamondback Energy, saw revenue rise 62% to nearly $1.4 billion but posted a net loss of $68.0 million and negative free cash flow of close to $1.3 billion. ConocoPhillips trades at a forward P/E of 10.6x and a P/S ratio of 2.2x, compared to Viper Energy's 21.2x and 4.1x, respectively, making it the value play. The analysis highlights ConocoPhillips' ability to capture oil price upside by remaining unhedged and its strong dividend payout of $3.30 per share over the past year, while Viper Energy faces risks from depleting mineral rights and heavy reliance on its operator.

Impact on assets 4

Energy± Mixed · 3 stocks
ConocoPhillips
COP
▲ PositiveCapitalrelevance

Article favors ConocoPhillips over Viper Energy, highlighting its strong financials, dividend, and valuation.

Viper Energy Ut
VNOM
▼ NegativeCapitalrelevance

Viper Energy is directly compared and deemed inferior due to net loss, negative free cash flow, and depletion risks.

Diamondback Energy Inc
FANG
▼ NegativeCapitalrelevance

Viper Energy, operated by Diamondback, is portrayed unfavorably with net loss and negative free cash flow.

Energy Transition & Power Demand▲ · 1 stocks
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