Top 3 Picks
2026 Outlook
By 2026, the Oil & Gas sector is projected to experience moderate growth in global demand, reaching approximately 102 million barrels per day, fueled by emerging markets and industrial recovery, though accelerated adoption of renewables and stricter carbon policies could limit expansion to 1-2% annually. Key trends include a shift towards lower-emission technologies like carbon capture and LNG, potentially boosting sector margins by 10-15% through operational efficiencies. Overall, with oil prices expected to stabilize between $70-90 per barrel, top companies are poised for strong cash flows and shareholder returns, contingent on navigating regulatory and environmental challenges.
Complete Rankings
| Rank | Stock | Score | Price | Market Cap |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
Occidental Petroleum Corporation
|
66.1 | $42.38 | $47.0B |
|
2
|
Dorchester Minerals LP
|
65.0 | $23.25 | $1.2B |
|
3
|
CKX Lands, Inc.
|
62.7 | $9.15 | $23M |
|
4
|
Vaalco Energy, Inc.
|
62.5 | $3.66 | $422M |
|
5
|
EOG Resources, Inc.
|
62.0 | $107.27 | $60.8B |
|
6
|
Permianville Royalty Trust
|
61.7 | $1.83 | $60M |
|
7
|
Black Stone Minerals, L.P.
|
61.3 | $13.51 | $2.8B |
|
8
|
APA Corporation Common Stock
|
61.1 | $25.36 | $9.0B |
|
9
|
Gulfport Energy Corporation
|
60.6 | $206.16 | $3.3B |
|
10
|
Prairie Operating Co. Common Stock
|
60.4 | $1.83 | $103M |
|
11
|
Epsilon Energy Ltd.
|
60.3 | $4.60 | $108M |
|
12
|
Mexco Energy Corporation
|
59.8 | $9.96 | $18M |
|
13
|
W&T Offshore, Inc.
|
59.4 | $1.61 | $280M |
|
14
|
Northern Oil and Gas, Inc.
|
59.3 | $22.01 | $2.4B |
|
15
|
Kimbell Royalty Partners, LP Common Units representing Limited Partner Interests
|
59.0 | $12.03 | $1.3B |
In-Depth Analysis: Top Oil & Gas Stocks
OXY
Occidental Petroleum is an independent exploration and production company with operations in the United States, Latin America, and the Middle East. At the end of 2023, the company reported net proved reserves of nearly 4 billion barrels of oil equivalent. Net production averaged 1.327 million barrels of oil equivalent per day in 2024 at a ratio of roughly 52% oil …
Occidental Petroleum matters in the Oil & Gas sector as a leading independent exploration and production company with nearly 4 billion barrels of oil equivalent in net proved reserves and average net production of 1.327 million barrels per day, enabling significant contributions to global energy supply from its operations in the United States, Latin America, and the Middle East.
OXY's 8.2% profit margin indicates moderate efficiency in converting revenue to profit, while a 6.0% ROE reflects suboptimal returns on shareholder equity amid a -7.7% revenue growth that highlights recent challenges in a volatile sector.
By 2026, OXY's extensive 4 billion barrels of reserves could fuel production growth if oil prices recover, potentially reversing the -7.7% revenue decline and boosting profitability. The company's diversified geographic footprint mitigates regional risks and positions it for strategic expansions. With a Tradestie Score of 66.1, the stock offers a compelling entry for investors anticipating energy demand recovery and OXY's operational efficiencies.
DMLP
Dorchester Minerals LP operates as the owner of producing and non-producing crude oil and natural gas mineral, royalty, overriding royalty, net profits and leasehold interests. The company generates revenues from royalties, net profits interests, lease bonus, and others. It has leasehold interests in approximately 592 counties and parishes in around 28 states.
Dorchester Minerals LP stands out in the Oil & Gas sector as a pure-play royalty owner, holding producing and non-producing interests that generate stable revenues from royalties and net profits without operational risks, making it a key player in providing passive income streams. Its focus on mineral, royalty, and leasehold interests contributes to the sector by facilitating efficient resource extraction and distribution of profits to investors.
With a profit margin of 37.1% and an ROE of 15.4%, Dorchester Minerals demonstrates strong profitability and efficient use of equity, indicating robust financial health despite a revenue decline of 33.8% likely due to cyclical oil and gas market fluctuations. The P/E ratio of 22.0 suggests the stock is reasonably valued relative to earnings, supporting its appeal for income-focused investors.
By 2026, investors should consider DMLP due to potential rebounds in oil and gas prices driven by increasing global energy demand, which could reverse the recent 33.8% revenue drop and leverage the company's high 37.1% profit margin for enhanced cash flows. The firm's royalty-based model minimizes operational costs and risks, positioning it for steady growth as Tradestie Score of 65 indicates moderate upside potential. Additionally, its P/E of 22.0 reflects fair valuation, making it an attractive buy for those seeking exposure to a recovering sector with inherent stability from non-producing assets.
CKX
CKX Lands Inc is a Louisiana corporation organized to receive non-producing mineral royalties spun off by a southwest Louisiana bank. It operates in three segments: Oil and Gas, Surface, and Timber. The company owns land and mineral interests and collects income through its ownership of oil and gas royalties, surface leases for farming, the right of way and other uses, …
CKX Lands Inc. matters in the Oil & Gas sector as a specialized entity owning mineral interests in Louisiana, enabling it to generate royalty income from non-producing assets without direct exploration risks, thus providing a stable revenue stream in a volatile industry. Its diversification into Surface and Timber segments further enhances its resilience, with a 35.8% revenue growth highlighting its adaptability amid fluctuating energy demands.
CKX demonstrates robust profitability with a 52.9% profit margin, indicating efficient operations and strong cost control in monetizing its oil and gas royalties. However, a low ROE of 2.5% suggests suboptimal equity utilization, potentially signaling areas for improvement in financial health despite the company's impressive revenue growth.
CKX's 35.8% revenue growth and 52.9% profit margin indicate strong potential for continued expansion in the Oil & Gas sector by 2026, driven by increasing demand for energy resources and its royalty-based business model that minimizes operational costs. The company's P/E ratio of 40.9 reflects market expectations of future earnings growth, making it an attractive option for investors seeking exposure to recovering oil prices. Additionally, with a Tradestie Score of 62.7/100, CKX offers a balanced risk-reward profile for long-term gains in a diversifying energy landscape.
EGY
VAALCO Energy Inc is an independent energy company operating in the United States. It is principally engaged in the acquisition, exploration, development, and production of crude oil and natural gas. The company operates through geographical segments namely Gabon, Egypt, Canada, Equatorial Guinea, and Cote d'Ivoire. The company generates maximum revenue from the Gabon segment.
VAALCO Energy Inc. matters in the Oil & Gas sector due to its diversified operations across Gabon, Egypt, Canada, and Equatorial Guinea, which enhance its role in global oil and gas production and exploration. As an independent energy company, it contributes to energy security by developing crude oil and natural gas resources in multiple regions, positioning it as a key player in meeting international demand.
VAALCO's 7.4% profit margin and 5.7% ROE indicate moderate profitability and efficient use of equity, demonstrating the company's ability to generate returns despite sector challenges. However, the -56.5% revenue growth highlights potential financial vulnerabilities, though the 13.5 P/E ratio suggests the stock remains reasonably valued relative to earnings.
By 2026, VAALCO Energy's P/E ratio of 13.5 makes it an attractive buy for value investors, offering potential upside as oil prices recover and global energy demand increases. The company's diversified geographical segments, including Gabon and Egypt, could drive production growth and revenue rebound from current lows. Furthermore, with a Tradestie Score of 62.5, it presents a moderate-risk opportunity for long-term investors seeking exposure to the Oil & Gas sector's potential resurgence.
EOG
EOG Resources is an oil and gas producer with acreage in several US shale plays, primarily in the Permian Basin and the Eagle Ford. At the end of 2024, it reported net proven reserves of 4.7 billion barrels of oil equivalent. Net production averaged roughly 1,062 thousand barrels of oil equivalent per day in 2024 at a ratio of 69% …
EOG Resources matters in the Oil & Gas sector as a leading independent producer with 4.7 billion barrels of oil equivalent in net proven reserves and average net production of 1,062 thousand barrels per day, primarily from high-yield US shale plays like the Permian Basin and Eagle Ford.
EOG demonstrates strong profitability with a 24.4% profit margin and an 18.5% ROE, indicating efficient operations and solid returns on equity; however, a -2.4% revenue growth reflects recent sector challenges, while the 10.5 P/E ratio suggests the stock is undervalued relative to earnings.
EOG's extensive reserves and production in key shale regions position it for potential growth as oil prices recover by 2026, driven by increasing global energy demand. The company's attractive 10.5 P/E ratio and 18.5% ROE make it a value buy for investors seeking exposure to the sector's upside. Additionally, its operational focus in the Permian Basin could capitalize on ongoing drilling efficiencies and expanded output to enhance shareholder returns.
PVL
Permianville Royalty Trust is a statutory trust which holds net profits interests in the profits from the sale of oil and natural gas production from non-operated assets of both conventional properties in the States of Texas, Louisiana, and New Mexico as well as unconventional assets in the Permian and Haynesville basins.
Permianville Royalty Trust matters in the Oil & Gas sector as it holds net profits interests in oil and natural gas production from key regions like the Permian Basin, Texas, Louisiana, and New Mexico, enabling it to capitalize on both conventional and unconventional assets in one of the world's most productive shale plays. This strategic positioning allows it to benefit from U.S. energy demands and contribute to the sector's growth through efficient royalty-based income streams.
PVL's profitability is robust, evidenced by a 67.5% profit margin that highlights its ability to generate significant profits from operations, supported by a staggering 2314.8% revenue growth indicating explosive expansion in a volatile sector. However, its 7.0% ROE suggests moderate efficiency in utilizing shareholder equity, while a P/E ratio of 20.1 reflects a reasonable valuation relative to its high growth potential.
Investors should consider buying PVL stock in 2026 due to its remarkable 2314.8% revenue growth, driven by production in the high-yield Permian Basin, which positions the company to benefit from increasing global energy demands and potential oil price recoveries. The 67.5% profit margin ensures strong financial resilience and cash flow generation, making it attractive for income-focused portfolios. Additionally, with a Tradestie Score of 61.7, PVL offers a solid risk-adjusted opportunity in the sector's growth trajectory by 2026.
BSM
Black Stone Minerals LP is an oil and natural gas mineral company. It owns oil and natural gas mineral interests, which makes up the majority of its asset base. Its business is actively managing an existing portfolio of mineral and royalty assets to maximize its value and expanding asset base through acquisitions of additional mineral and royalty interests.
Black Stone Minerals, L.P. matters in the Oil & Gas sector as a leading owner of oil and natural gas mineral interests, providing essential royalty-based assets that enable production without operational risks, thereby offering stability and potential yield to investors. Its focus on actively managing and expanding its portfolio positions it as a key player in maximizing asset value amid sector volatility.
With a profit margin of 66.4%, Black Stone Minerals demonstrates exceptional operational efficiency, converting a significant portion of revenue into net income, while a return on equity of 23.9% indicates strong financial health through effective use of shareholders' equity. However, the -0.9% revenue growth highlights a slight contraction, which could be attributed to market fluctuations, yet the overall metrics suggest resilience in profitability.
Investors should consider buying Black Stone Minerals stock in 2026 due to its attractive P/E ratio of 11.7, indicating potential undervaluation and room for appreciation as oil and gas demand recovers. The company's high profit margin of 66.4% and ROE of 23.9% underscore its ability to generate strong returns from its mineral assets, especially as it expands its portfolio to capitalize on rising energy prices. Additionally, with a Tradestie Score of 61.3, the stock offers a balanced opportunity for growth in a sector expected to rebound, driven by global energy needs.
APA
APA Corp is an independent exploration and production company. It develops, and produces crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids. The Company's business has oil and gas operations in three geographic areas: the United States (U.S.), Egypt, and offshore the U.K. in the North Sea (North Sea). APA also has active development, exploration, and appraisal operations ongoing in Suriname, …
APA Corporation matters in the Oil & Gas sector due to its position as an independent exploration and production company with diversified operations across the U.S., Egypt, and the North Sea, enabling it to contribute significantly to global oil and gas supply. This geographic spread allows APA to navigate sector volatility effectively, providing stability and exposure to multiple high-potential regions.
APA's profitability is robust, evidenced by a 16.1% profit margin and a 27.4% ROE, which highlight efficient cost management and strong returns on equity compared to industry peers. However, the -16.4% revenue growth raises concerns about short-term demand or price pressures, though the low P/E ratio of 5.9 suggests the stock may be undervalued and poised for recovery.
APA's low P/E ratio of 5.9 indicates significant undervaluation, making it an attractive buy for investors anticipating earnings growth by 2026. The company's high ROE of 27.4% demonstrates effective capital utilization, which could fuel expansion in its diversified operations across the U.S. and North Sea amid potential oil price recoveries. Furthermore, as global energy demands rise, APA's strategic assets in key regions position it for revenue rebound and enhanced profitability in the coming years.
GPOR
Gulfport Energy Corp is an independent natural gas-weighted exploration and production company focused on the exploration, acquisition, and production of natural gas, crude oil, and natural gas liquids, with assets predominantly located in the Appalachia and Anadarko basins in the United States. Its principal properties are located in eastern Ohio, targeting the Utica and Marcellus, and in central Oklahoma, targeting …
Gulfport Energy Corporation matters in the Oil & Gas sector as a specialized independent producer focused on natural gas-weighted assets in the high-yield Appalachia and Anadarko basins, contributing significantly to U.S. domestic energy supply amid rising demand for cleaner fossil fuels.
Gulfport Energy's profitability is constrained by a low profit margin of 1.8% and ROE of 1.1%, indicating limited efficiency in converting revenue to profit and utilizing shareholder equity; however, its impressive 45.5% revenue growth highlights strong operational expansion that could enhance financial health over time.
Gulfport Energy's 45.5% revenue growth positions it for substantial upside by 2026, fueled by increasing U.S. natural gas demand and the company's prime assets in the Appalachia and Anadarko basins. The Tradestie Score of 60.6 suggests moderate investment appeal, particularly as energy transitions favor natural gas over coal. Investors may benefit from potential production efficiencies and rising commodity prices, making GPOR a compelling growth opportunity in the sector.
PROP
Prairie Operating Co is a Houston-based independent energy company engaged in the development and acquisition of oil and natural gas resources in the United States. The Company's assets and operations are concentrated in the oil and liquids-rich regions of the Denver-Julesburg (DJ) Basin, with a focus on the Niobrara and Codell formations. The Company is committed to the responsible development …
Prairie Operating Co. matters in the Oil & Gas sector due to its strategic focus on the Denver-Julesburg (DJ) Basin, a high-yield region for oil and liquids-rich natural gas production in the US, which supports national energy security and supply. As a Houston-based independent energy company specializing in development and acquisition, it plays a key role in enhancing domestic resource extraction amid growing demand for fossil fuels.
Prairie Operating Co. exhibits strong profitability with a 13.5% profit margin, indicating efficient operations in converting revenue to net income within the competitive Oil & Gas sector. Its 13.9% ROE further demonstrates solid financial health, as it reflects effective use of shareholders' equity to generate returns, supported by a Tradestie Score of 60.4/100 that suggests moderate overall investment viability.
By 2026, Prairie Operating Co.'s assets in the DJ Basin are poised for growth as rising oil prices and increasing energy demand could boost production and revenues, building on its current 13.5% profit margin and 13.9% ROE for sustained earnings. The company's focus on acquisitions and development in liquids-rich regions positions it to capitalize on potential market expansions, offering investors exposure to a resilient segment of the Oil & Gas industry. Additionally, the Tradestie Score of 60.4/100 indicates a balanced opportunity for long-term gains, making PROP an appealing choice for portfolios seeking energy sector diversification.
Methodology
Stocks are ranked using the Tradestie Score, a proprietary 0-100 rating that combines fundamental quality (profitability, balance sheet strength), growth metrics (revenue and earnings growth), valuation (P/E, PEG ratio), and momentum factors. Scores are updated daily based on the latest market data. Learn more about our methodology.