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Cenovus Energy Inc (TSE:CVE)
TSX:CVE

Cenovus Energy (CVE) AI Stock Analysis

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TSE:CVE

Cenovus Energy

(TSX:CVE)

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Outperform 73 (OpenAI - 5.2)
Rating:73Outperform
Price Target:
C$25.00
â–¼(-0.24% Downside)
Cenovus Energy's overall stock score reflects a strong operational performance and strategic growth initiatives, particularly the MEG Energy acquisition. While financial performance shows stability, challenges in revenue growth and free cash flow generation remain. Technical indicators and recent corporate events further support a positive outlook.
Positive Factors
Upstream Production Growth
Record upstream production (833k BOE/d) and strong oil sands output (643k bpd) plus project ramp-ups (Narrows Lake, Christina Lake, Foster Creek) and West White Rose first oil expected in 2026 create a durable production base that supports mid-term cash flow and scale economies.
Downstream Operational Efficiency
Very high refining utilization and throughput provide stable downstream margins and reliable cash generation. Vertical integration lets Cenovus capture processing spreads, diversify revenue sources and reduce commodity exposure, supporting earnings resilience across multiple quarters.
Balance Sheet Discipline and Capital Framework
Explicit deleveraging targets and an adjusted returns framework balance shareholder distributions with debt reduction. A clear net debt roadmap to $4B improves predictability of capital allocation, strengthens credit profile and supports sustainable returns over the medium term.
Negative Factors
Declining Revenue and Weak Free Cash Flow
Sizable revenue decline and weakening free cash flow growth constrain internal funding for capex and shareholder returns. A low free cash flow to net income ratio (0.36) limits financial flexibility, making sustained investment, deleveraging or opportunistic M&A harder without external financing.
Operational Disruptions and Inventory Losses
Production shut-ins at Rush Lake and $88M of downstream inventory holding losses highlight execution and margin risks. Recurring outages or inventory losses reduce near-term cash flow and can erode expected project returns and downstream margin capture over the coming quarters.
Acquisition-Related Integration and Costs
The MEG acquisition increases integration complexity, near-term transaction costs and balance sheet strain. Incremental expenses (~$80M) and prior regulatory delays prolong realization of synergies while elevated net debt above $6B forces conservative capital allocation until deleveraging progresses.

Cenovus Energy (CVE) vs. iShares MSCI Canada ETF (EWC)

Cenovus Energy Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionCenovus Energy Inc., together with its subsidiaries, develops, produces, and markets crude oil, natural gas liquids, and natural gas in Canada, the United States, and the Asia Pacific region. The company operates through Oil Sands, Conventional, Offshore, Canadian Manufacturing, U.S. Manufacturing, and Retail segments. The Oil Sands segment develops and produces bitumen and heavy oil in northern Alberta and Saskatchewan. This segments Foster Creek, Christina Lake, Sunrise, and Tucker oil sands projects, as well as Lloydminster thermal and conventional heavy oil assets The Conventional segment holds assets primarily located in Elmworth-Wapiti, Kaybob-Edson, Clearwater, and Rainbow Lake operating in Alberta and British Columbia, as well as interests in various natural gas processing facilities. The offshore segment engages in the exploration and development activities. The Canadian Manufacturing segment includes the owned and operated Lloydminster upgrading and asphalt refining complex, which upgrades heavy oil and bitumen into synthetic crude oil, diesel fuel, asphalt, and other ancillary products, as well as owns and operates the Bruderheim crude-by-rail terminal and two ethanol plants. The U.S. Manufacturing segment comprises the refining of crude oil to produce diesel, gasoline, jet fuel, asphalt, and other products. The Retail segment consists of marketing of its own and third-party refined petroleum products through retail, commercial, and bulk petroleum outlets, as well as wholesale channels. Cenovus Energy Inc. was founded in 2009 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada.
How the Company Makes MoneyCenovus Energy generates revenue primarily through the exploration, production, and sale of crude oil and natural gas. The company operates significant oil sands projects, which provide a stable source of production and cash flow. Additionally, Cenovus has refining operations that allow it to process crude oil into refined products, enhancing its profitability. Key revenue streams include sales of crude oil, natural gas, and refined products to various markets. The company benefits from strategic partnerships and joint ventures, which enable shared resources and costs, further enhancing its earnings potential. Market conditions, including oil and gas prices, also significantly impact Cenovus's revenue, as fluctuations in commodity prices can directly influence profitability.

Cenovus Energy Earnings Call Summary

Earnings Call Date:Oct 31, 2025
(Q3-2025)
|
% Change Since: |
Next Earnings Date:Feb 12, 2026
Earnings Call Sentiment Positive
The earnings call highlighted Cenovus Energy's record production levels and strong downstream performance, indicating a positive trajectory in operations. However, challenges such as the delay in the MEG acquisition vote and production issues at Rush Lake presented notable concerns. Overall, the positive aspects slightly outweighed the negatives, reflecting a cautiously optimistic sentiment.
Q3-2025 Updates
Positive Updates
Record Upstream Production
Cenovus achieved its highest ever upstream production of 833,000 BOE per day, with oil sands assets contributing 643,000 barrels per day.
Strong Downstream Performance
The U.S. refining operations recorded a crude throughput of 605,000 barrels per day with a utilization rate of 99%, and Canadian refining achieved a utilization rate of 98%.
Successful Optimization at Foster Creek
Foster Creek achieved a production record of 215,000 barrels per day, aided by the quick implementation of 4 new steam generators.
West White Rose Project Progress
Nearly completed commissioning of the West White Rose project with drilling expected before year-end and first oil in the second quarter of 2026.
Improved Financial Metrics
Generated $3 billion of operating margin and approximately $2.5 billion of adjusted funds flow in the third quarter.
Negative Updates
Delayed MEG Acquisition Vote
The MEG shareholder vote was postponed due to a regulatory inquiry related to an amended transaction complaint by a former employee.
Production Challenges at Rush Lake
18,000 barrels of production from Rush Lake facilities remained shut in, affecting overall production metrics.
Inventory Holding Losses
The downstream business experienced $88 million in inventory holding losses, impacting the overall operating margin.
Lower Market Capture in Non-Operated Refining Assets
Market capture rates in non-operated refining assets were lower compared to operated ones, affecting overall performance metrics.
Company Guidance
During the Cenovus Energy Third Quarter 2025 Results Conference Call, guidance was provided on several key metrics. Cenovus reported a record upstream production of 833,000 barrels of oil equivalent (BOE) per day, with oil sands assets contributing 643,000 barrels per day. Christina Lake production was 252,000 barrels per day, bolstered by the ramp-up from Narrows Lake. Foster Creek achieved a production record of 215,000 barrels per day, with new steam generators supporting higher output. Sunrise production was 52,000 barrels per day, expected to rise to 60,000 barrels by year-end. The Lloydminster Thermals produced 96,000 barrels per day despite some setbacks. The West White Rose project is nearing completion, with first oil anticipated by the second quarter of 2026. The downstream segment performed well, with Canadian refining achieving a utilization rate of 98% and U.S. refining achieving a record 605,000 barrels per day with a 99% utilization rate. Financially, Cenovus generated $3 billion in operating margin and $2.5 billion in adjusted funds flow, with a net debt of approximately $5.3 billion prior to receiving $1.8 billion from the WRB sale. Capital investments totaled $1.2 billion, and Cenovus returned $1.3 billion to shareholders through dividends and share buybacks. The acquisition of MEG Energy is expected to close in November, further enhancing Cenovus's growth trajectory.

Cenovus Energy Financial Statement Overview

Summary
Cenovus Energy demonstrates stable financial performance with strong operational efficiency and a solid balance sheet. However, challenges in revenue growth and free cash flow generation could affect future financial flexibility. Continued focus on cost management and cash flow improvement is crucial.
Income Statement
65
Positive
Cenovus Energy's income statement shows a mixed performance. The company has maintained a positive net profit margin of 5.18% in TTM, despite a slight decline in revenue growth rate by 2.04%. The gross profit margin has decreased to 8.42% from previous years, indicating pressure on cost management. However, the EBIT and EBITDA margins remain healthy at 7.23% and 17.24%, respectively, showcasing operational efficiency.
Balance Sheet
72
Positive
The balance sheet reflects a stable financial position with a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.36, indicating moderate leverage. The return on equity (ROE) is at 9.01%, showing a reasonable return for shareholders. The equity ratio stands at 52.96%, suggesting a solid equity base relative to total assets, which enhances financial stability.
Cash Flow
60
Neutral
Cash flow analysis reveals some challenges, with a decline in free cash flow growth by 5.39% in TTM. The operating cash flow to net income ratio is 1.15, indicating adequate cash generation relative to net income. However, the free cash flow to net income ratio is 0.36, suggesting limited free cash flow relative to net income, which could impact future investments.
BreakdownTTMDec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021Dec 2020
Income Statement
Total Revenue50.56B54.28B52.20B66.90B46.36B13.54B
Gross Profit6.25B5.63B6.16B11.36B5.74B-1.43B
EBITDA9.25B9.56B10.23B13.90B6.66B-238.00M
Net Income3.14B3.14B4.11B6.45B587.00M-2.38B
Balance Sheet
Total Assets53.57B56.54B53.91B55.87B54.10B32.77B
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments1.90B3.09B2.23B4.52B2.87B378.00M
Total Debt10.03B10.63B9.95B11.64B15.42B9.32B
Total Liabilities25.18B26.77B25.20B28.28B30.50B16.06B
Stockholders Equity28.37B29.75B28.70B27.58B23.60B16.71B
Cash Flow
Free Cash Flow2.82B4.22B3.09B7.64B3.36B-586.00M
Operating Cash Flow7.85B9.23B7.39B11.40B5.92B273.00M
Investing Cash Flow-5.55B-5.13B-5.29B-2.31B-942.00M-863.00M
Financing Cash Flow-3.63B-3.50B-4.31B-7.68B-2.51B837.00M

Cenovus Energy Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Positive
Last Price25.06
Price Trends
50DMA
24.17
Positive
100DMA
23.80
Positive
200DMA
21.11
Positive
Market Momentum
MACD
0.18
Negative
RSI
59.88
Neutral
STOCH
85.15
Negative
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For TSE:CVE, the sentiment is Positive. The current price of 25.06 is above the 20-day moving average (MA) of 23.39, above the 50-day MA of 24.17, and above the 200-day MA of 21.11, indicating a bullish trend. The MACD of 0.18 indicates Negative momentum. The RSI at 59.88 is Neutral, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 85.15 is Negative, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Positive sentiment for TSE:CVE.

Cenovus Energy Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (65)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
77
Outperform
$83.02B16.1611.41%3.91%-3.08%-31.48%
73
Outperform
C$47.37B14.4910.65%3.40%-9.17%-12.97%
73
Outperform
C$22.85B16.818.69%4.79%8.97%-21.15%
72
Outperform
C$67.69B17.4216.52%2.45%-6.18%-14.06%
70
Outperform
$31.43B19.2810.22%5.44%2.81%-14.92%
70
Outperform
$79.51B23.4212.96%4.41%-3.98%-33.45%
65
Neutral
$15.17B7.614.09%5.20%3.87%-62.32%
* Energy Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
TSE:CVE
Cenovus Energy
25.06
3.67
17.14%
TSE:IMO
Imperial Oil
136.24
39.45
40.75%
TSE:PPL
Pembina Pipeline
54.10
2.20
4.23%
TSE:SU
Suncor Energy
69.11
14.33
26.15%
TSE:TRP
TC Energy
76.41
9.72
14.58%
TSE:TOU
Tourmaline Oil
59.04
-5.70
-8.80%

Cenovus Energy Corporate Events

Business Operations and StrategyFinancial Disclosures
Cenovus Energy Unveils 2026 Capital Budget and Growth Plans
Positive
Dec 11, 2025

Cenovus Energy has announced its 2026 capital budget and corporate guidance, outlining a capital investment plan between $5.0 billion and $5.3 billion, including $350 million for turnaround costs. The company anticipates upstream production growth of approximately 4% year-over-year, with a focus on ramping up volumes from projects at Foster Creek and West White Rose, and advancing expansion at Christina Lake North. The guidance reflects a strategic balance between growth investments and cost control, aiming to enhance shareholder returns while managing debt.

The most recent analyst rating on (TSE:CVE) stock is a Buy with a C$28.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Cenovus Energy stock, see the TSE:CVE Stock Forecast page.

Private Placements and Financing
Cenovus Energy Completes $2.6 Billion Senior Notes Offering
Positive
Nov 20, 2025

Cenovus Energy Inc. has successfully closed a $2.6 billion offering of senior notes in Canada and the United States, which includes various unsecured notes with maturities ranging from 2031 to 2036. The proceeds from this offering will be used to refinance existing notes and for general corporate purposes, enhancing the company’s financial flexibility and potentially strengthening its market position.

The most recent analyst rating on (TSE:CVE) stock is a Buy with a C$31.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Cenovus Energy stock, see the TSE:CVE Stock Forecast page.

Private Placements and Financing
Cenovus Energy Announces $2.6 Billion Senior Notes Offering
Positive
Nov 19, 2025

Cenovus Energy Inc. has announced a $2.6 billion offering of senior unsecured notes, divided into Canadian and U.S. dollar denominations. The proceeds from this offering will be used to redeem existing senior notes and to fund general corporate purposes, potentially strengthening the company’s financial position and operational flexibility.

The most recent analyst rating on (TSE:CVE) stock is a Buy with a C$30.50 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Cenovus Energy stock, see the TSE:CVE Stock Forecast page.

Business Operations and StrategyM&A Transactions
Cenovus Energy Completes Strategic Acquisition of MEG Energy
Positive
Nov 13, 2025

Cenovus Energy has completed its acquisition of MEG Energy Corp., enhancing its portfolio with high-quality, low-cost oil sands assets. This strategic move is expected to add 110,000 barrels per day to Cenovus’s production capacity and generate significant value through identified synergies, positioning the company for both immediate and long-term growth.

The most recent analyst rating on (TSE:CVE) stock is a Buy with a C$30.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Cenovus Energy stock, see the TSE:CVE Stock Forecast page.

Business Operations and StrategyFinancial DisclosuresM&A Transactions
Cenovus Energy Reports Strong Q3 2025 Results and Strategic Developments
Positive
Oct 31, 2025

Cenovus Energy reported strong financial and operational results for the third quarter of 2025, with significant cash flow and record production levels. The company achieved record upstream production and downstream crude throughput, indicating robust operational performance. Key projects such as the Foster Creek optimization and West White Rose are nearing completion, which is expected to enhance production capabilities. Additionally, Cenovus completed the sale of its interest in WRB Refining LP and announced an acquisition agreement with MEG Energy Corp., signaling strategic growth initiatives.

The most recent analyst rating on (TSE:CVE) stock is a Hold with a C$26.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Cenovus Energy stock, see the TSE:CVE Stock Forecast page.

Business Operations and StrategyM&A Transactions
Cenovus Energy Amends MEG Acquisition Agreement and Announces Asset Sale
Positive
Oct 27, 2025

Cenovus Energy has amended its agreement to acquire MEG Energy, offering MEG shareholders the option to receive cash or Cenovus shares, with a total value of approximately $30 per MEG share. Additionally, Cenovus announced the sale of certain assets to Strathcona Resources for up to $150 million, which includes the Vawn thermal heavy oil asset and undeveloped lands, expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2025. These strategic moves are anticipated to enhance Cenovus’s market position and operational efficiency.

The most recent analyst rating on (TSE:CVE) stock is a Hold with a C$26.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Cenovus Energy stock, see the TSE:CVE Stock Forecast page.

M&A TransactionsShareholder Meetings
Cenovus Energy Postpones MEG Acquisition Vote to October 30
Positive
Oct 21, 2025

Cenovus Energy has postponed the special meeting for MEG Energy shareholders to vote on its proposed acquisition of MEG to October 30, 2025. The decision comes as 63% of MEG shares are currently in favor of the transaction, which requires a 66⅔% approval. The acquisition offers MEG shareholders a choice between cash or Cenovus shares, with the deal representing a 44% premium over MEG’s previous share price. This move is seen as a strategic effort by Cenovus to expand its operations and leverage synergies with MEG, potentially impacting stakeholders through increased value and market positioning.

The most recent analyst rating on (TSE:CVE) stock is a Buy with a C$32.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Cenovus Energy stock, see the TSE:CVE Stock Forecast page.

Business Operations and StrategyM&A Transactions
Cenovus Energy Increases Stake in MEG Energy with Strategic Share Acquisition
Positive
Oct 15, 2025

Cenovus Energy has acquired an additional 3,276,460 common shares of MEG Energy Corp., bringing its total ownership to 25 million shares, or 9.8% of MEG’s outstanding shares. This acquisition supports a previously announced transaction with MEG, and Cenovus plans to vote its shares in favor of this transaction, indicating a strategic move to strengthen its position in the energy market.

The most recent analyst rating on (TSE:CVE) stock is a Buy with a C$32.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Cenovus Energy stock, see the TSE:CVE Stock Forecast page.

Business Operations and StrategyM&A Transactions
Cenovus Energy Acquires 8.5% Stake in MEG Energy
Neutral
Oct 14, 2025

Cenovus Energy has acquired 8.5% of MEG Energy’s common shares, totaling 21,723,540 shares, as part of its previously announced transaction with MEG. This acquisition allows Cenovus to potentially influence MEG’s future decisions and reflects its strategic move to strengthen its position in the energy sector. The company may adjust its ownership based on market conditions, indicating a flexible approach to its investment strategy.

The most recent analyst rating on (TSE:CVE) stock is a Buy with a C$32.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Cenovus Energy stock, see the TSE:CVE Stock Forecast page.

Glossary
BuyA stock rated as a "Buy" is expected to perform better than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock is likely to deliver higher returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
HoldA stock rated as a "Hold" is expected to perform in line with the overall market or a specific benchmark. This rating indicates that the stock is neither particularly compelling nor unfavorable for investment. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
SellA stock rated as a "Sell" is expected to perform worse than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock may deliver lower returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.

Disclaimer

This AI Analyst Stock Report is automatically generated by our AI systems using advanced algorithms and publicly available financial, technical, and market data. While the information provided aims to be accurate and insightful, it is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Any content created by an AI (Artificial Intelligence) system may contain inaccuracies and/or contain errors. Investing in stocks carries inherent risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results. This report does not account for your personal financial circumstances, objectives, or risk tolerance. Always conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The analysis and recommendations provided are based on historical and current data and may not fully reflect future market conditions or unexpected developments. Neither the creators of this report nor its affiliated entities guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. Use this report at your own discretion and risk.Date of analysis: Dec 07, 2025