Chevron CEO Mike Wirth on Q1 Results: Resilience of Our Portfolio Really Showed Through

CNBC Television
CNBC TelevisionMay 1, 2026

Why It Matters

Chevron’s outperformance validates its low‑Middle‑East exposure and operational strength, while highlighting heightened price risk that could affect earnings and energy‑sector investors.

Key Takeaways

  • Chevron Q1 EPS $1.41 beats $0.95 estimate significantly.
  • U.S. production exceeds 2M bpd, global output 4.4M bpd.
  • Middle‑East exposure under 5%, shielding Chevron from regional disruptions.
  • Oil prices climb as Strait of Hormuz closure tightens supply.
  • CEO warns inventory drawdown may amplify future price volatility.

Summary

Chevron reported first‑quarter earnings of $1.41 per share, well above the $0.95 consensus, while revenue slipped slightly short of forecasts. CEO Mike Wirth highlighted the results as a testament to the company’s operational resilience amid a turbulent global energy backdrop.

The beat was driven by a third consecutive quarter of U.S. crude output above 2 million barrels per day, lifting global production to roughly 4.4 million bpd, and a record U.S. refinery throughput that matched market demand in March. Chevron’s exposure to the Middle East remains under 5%, far lower than many peers, insulating it from the current Strait of Hormuz disruption.

Wirth said, “The resilience of our portfolio really showed through,” and noted that “the global energy system continues to be under extreme stress,” with inventories being drawn down as the Hormuz closure persists. He warned that dwindling shock absorbers could push oil prices higher and eventually curb demand.

The strong earnings lift Chevron’s stock and underscore the value of a diversified asset base. However, the company remains vulnerable to prolonged supply shocks that could accelerate price volatility and pressure downstream margins, a risk investors will monitor closely.

Original Description

Chevron CEO Mike Wirth joins 'Squawk Box' to discuss the company's quarterly earnings results, impact of the Middle East conflict on production, Iran war disruption on supply, and more.

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