BP stock experienced a sharp drop this week, even after the British energy giant reported a stronger-than-expected third-quarter profit. However, the positive earnings report did little to reassure investors, who have increasingly scrutinised BP’s financial stability and strategic direction compared to competitors ExxonMobil and Chevron. Despite a slight earnings beat, BP’s revenue missed expectations, production decreased, and rising debt continued to fuel market concerns. Here’s why BP is facing a tough time competing with U.S. oil giants ExxonMobil and Chevron in a volatile energy market.

Earnings beat marred by revenue decline and debt issues

BP delivered an adjusted earnings per share of $0.83, exceeding the forecasted $0.76. However, the revenue numbers told a different story, falling short of projections at $47.25 billion, a steep drop from the expected $52.56 billion. This revenue decline can be attributed largely to a 6% year-over-year fall in oil production, underscoring BP’s struggle to sustain growth in its traditional energy sectors. With hydrocarbon production down and a reported cash flow of $6.76 billion—significantly lower than the previous year—BP faces mounting pressure to strike a balance between profitability and investment in renewable energy.

BP’s capital expenditures surged to $4.54 billion this quarter, up from $3.60 billion a year ago, while its net debt rose to $24.27 billion. Analysts view this increased spending and debt load as potentially undermining BP’s operational flexibility, especially when compared to its American counterparts. These financial challenges have led analysts to issue a cautious “Hold” rating for BP’s stock, indicating a need for improved cash flow and a clearer path to profitability.

Falling behind ExxonMobil and Chevron in shareholder returns

ExxonMobil and Chevron have consistently outperformed BP in terms of cash flow and dividend returns, benefiting from a stronger emphasis on traditional oil and gas production. In contrast to BP’s hybrid energy transition approach, ExxonMobil and Chevron have focused heavily on maximising returns from their oil and gas assets, notably in the U.S. shale industry. Their robust cash flows have allowed these companies to distribute higher dividends and execute larger share buybacks, which have become increasingly appealing to income-focused investors amid global economic uncertainties.

BP, on the other hand, recently announced a smaller share buyback plan of $1.75 billion, with another $1.75 billion buyback expected in the fourth quarter. This approach, though aligned with BP’s transition strategy, has placed the company at a competitive disadvantage compared to ExxonMobil and Chevron, whose higher dividends and buybacks have strengthened their appeal to investors. ExxonMobil’s recent third-quarter earnings, backed by record-high oil and gas production, allowed the U.S. company to solidify its market position, while Chevron’s disciplined approach has similarly paid off.

Experts weigh in on BP’s strategic crossroads

According to experts, BP’s mixed approach—balancing oil production with renewable investments—may be leading to an identity crisis in the competitive energy sector. BP’s renewables pipeline, which includes a significant stake in solar projects through Lightsource BP, is expanding. Yet, returns from these assets remain comparatively modest, especially against ExxonMobil and Chevron’s high-margin oil and gas operations. BP CEO Murray Auchincloss acknowledged that the company is focusing on value over volume, but investor sentiment has remained lukewarm as BP attempts to fund its renewable transition without compromising shareholder returns.

Financial analysts argue that BP’s strategy could benefit from a more refined focus, particularly in traditional energy markets, as it competes in an increasingly polarised industry where American oil giants thrive on their clear emphasis on fossil fuels. With BP’s earnings outlook tempered by anticipated lower production volumes in Q4, the energy giant faces a difficult path in achieving a sustainable balance between profitability and green energy investments.

The road ahead: BP’s investment in renewables and Q4 outlook

Looking forward, BP’s management has maintained its commitment to the energy transition, projecting that upstream production may see a seasonal dip in Q4 due to lower demand. The company continues to focus on streamlining its operations to remain competitive, with ongoing investments in low-carbon energy and a recently disclosed $1.75 billion buyback plan. However, the future of BP’s stock performance largely hinges on its ability to stabilise cash flows, optimise its renewable portfolio, and provide greater clarity on its dividend policies in the face of persistent debt and declining oil revenues.

For BP to regain its footing and catch up with ExxonMobil and Chevron, industry experts suggest that a more distinct and potentially aggressive approach in either traditional or renewable energy could help BP achieve better long-term shareholder value. Investors and analysts will be watching closely as BP prepares its Q4 earnings, gauging whether the British energy major can adjust its strategy to survive—and potentially thrive—in the challenging global energy landscape.

  BP, BP plc, British Petroleum, Chevron, ExxonMobil, U.S. oil companies