In a report released today, Joe Laetsch from Morgan Stanley maintained a Buy rating on Marathon Petroleum (MPC – Research Report), with a price target of $175.00.
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Joe Laetsch’s rating is based on Marathon Petroleum’s strong financial performance and future growth prospects. The company reported significantly higher-than-expected earnings per share for the fourth quarter, driven primarily by increased refining throughput and better margin capture. This financial outperformance was complemented by modestly better results in their Midstream segment, positioning Marathon Petroleum favorably against its large-cap peers.
Additionally, the company’s management anticipates improvements in refining margins in the latter half of 2025, as facility closures are expected to balance out recent capacity expansions. Continued steady demand for gasoline and diesel, alongside rising jet fuel demand, further supports the company’s positive outlook. Marathon Petroleum’s commitment to returning excess capital through buybacks and its strategic growth investments also contribute to the Buy rating. These factors collectively underpin Joe Laetsch’s positive outlook on the stock.
In another report released today, TD Cowen also maintained a Buy rating on the stock with a $170.00 price target.
Based on the recent corporate insider activity of 81 insiders, corporate insider sentiment is positive on the stock. This means that over the past quarter there has been an increase of insiders buying their shares of MPC in relation to earlier this year.