Gulfport Energy emerges as the preferred pick over Viper Energy for 2026, driven by stronger profitability and a lower valuation. Gulfport, an active exploration and production company focused on the Appalachia and Anadarko basins, reported fiscal 2025 revenue of approximately $1.3 billion, net income of nearly $427.8 million, and free cash flow of nearly $275.6 million. In contrast, royalty-focused Viper Energy, which relies on operators like Diamondback Energy in the Permian Basin, posted higher revenue of nearly $1.4 billion but a net loss of approximately $69 million and negative free cash flow of around $1.3 billion. Gulfport trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 7.1 times, well below Viper’s 21.3 times and the sector benchmark of 20.8 times, making it the more value-oriented choice. While neither company pays a dividend, Gulfport’s profitable operations and expected 20% earnings-per-share growth to around $26 in 2026 give it the edge.
Gulfport Energy Operating CorpArticle highlights Gulfport's stronger profitability, lower valuation, and expected EPS growth, making it the preferred pick.
Viper Energy UtArticle contrasts Viper's net loss, negative free cash flow, and higher valuation, making it less attractive.
Diamondback Energy Inc