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Valero Energy (VLO)
NYSE:VLO
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Valero Energy (VLO) AI Stock Analysis

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VLO

Valero Energy

(NYSE:VLO)

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Outperform 75 (OpenAI - 4o)
Rating:75Outperform
Price Target:
$194.00
▲(10.22% Upside)
Valero Energy's overall stock score reflects strong financial performance and positive technical indicators, supported by a favorable earnings call. The company's high leverage and valuation concerns are offset by robust operational efficiency and strategic shareholder returns. Investors should monitor leverage and the Renewable Diesel segment's challenges.
Positive Factors
Operational Efficiency
Valero's record refining throughput demonstrates its operational efficiency and capacity to optimize production, which is crucial for maintaining competitive advantage and profitability in the refining industry.
Cash Flow Generation
Strong cash flow generation relative to net income indicates Valero's ability to efficiently convert earnings into cash, supporting financial stability and capacity for reinvestment or debt reduction.
Market Position
As one of the largest independent refiners, Valero's extensive refining capacity strengthens its market position, enabling it to capitalize on economies of scale and meet diverse market demands.
Negative Factors
High Leverage
Significant leverage poses risks to Valero's financial flexibility, potentially impacting its ability to invest in growth opportunities or weather economic downturns without financial strain.
Renewable Diesel Segment Loss
Losses in the Renewable Diesel segment highlight challenges in diversifying into sustainable energy markets, which could affect long-term growth and adaptation to industry trends.
Revenue Volatility
Volatile revenue trends can impact Valero's financial predictability and planning, potentially affecting its ability to sustain consistent growth and shareholder returns over time.

Valero Energy (VLO) vs. SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY)

Valero Energy Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionValero Energy Corporation is a global manufacturer and marketer of transportation fuels and petrochemical products. Headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, the company operates 15 refineries with a combined throughput capacity of approximately 3.2 million barrels per day, making it one of the largest independent refiners in the world. Valero also produces renewable diesel and ethanol, contributing to its portfolio of clean energy solutions. The company serves various markets, including retail, commercial, and industrial sectors, primarily in the United States and Canada.
How the Company Makes MoneyValero Energy generates revenue primarily through the refining of crude oil into petroleum products, including gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. The company operates on a margin-based model where it purchases crude oil and other feedstocks and sells the refined products at higher prices. Key revenue streams include sales of refined petroleum products, renewable fuels, and petrochemicals. Additionally, Valero benefits from its extensive network of retail convenience stores and fuel stations, which provide a direct consumer channel. The company also engages in strategic partnerships, including collaborations with renewable energy ventures, which enhance its product offerings and contribute to its earnings. Market factors such as crude oil prices, refining margins, and demand for gasoline and diesel significantly influence Valero's financial performance.

Valero Energy Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Any
Any
Refining Operating Income by Geography
Refining Operating Income by Geography
Highlights the profitability of refining operations in different regions, indicating where Valero Energy is most efficient and where it might face challenges or opportunities due to regional market dynamics.
Chart InsightsValero Energy's refining operating income has shown significant volatility across regions. The US Gulf Coast, after peaking in 2022, is experiencing a notable decline, suggesting potential challenges in maintaining high margins. The US Mid Continent and North Atlantic regions have stabilized but at lower levels than their 2022 highs. The US West Coast, however, faces a concerning downturn, with recent quarters showing negative income, indicating operational or market challenges. Investors should monitor these regional shifts, as they may impact Valero's overall profitability and strategic focus.
Data provided by:Main Street Data

Valero Energy Earnings Call Summary

Earnings Call Date:Sep 30, 2025
(Q3-2025)
|
% Change Since: |
Next Earnings Date:Jan 22, 2026
Earnings Call Sentiment Positive
Valero's earnings call highlighted strong financial performance, record throughput utilization, and substantial returns to shareholders. However, challenges were noted in the Renewable Diesel segment and costs associated with the Benicia Refinery closure.
Q3-2025 Updates
Positive Updates
Strong Financial Performance
Valero reported net income attributable to stockholders of $1.1 billion or $3.53 per share, significantly higher than $364 million or $1.14 per share from the previous year.
Record Throughput Utilization
Refinery throughput utilization reached 97%, with the Gulf Coast and North Atlantic regions setting new all-time highs.
Ethanol Segment Record
The Ethanol segment achieved record production with an operating income of $183 million, compared to $153 million in the previous year.
Strong Shareholder Returns
Valero returned $1.3 billion to shareholders in Q3 2025, including $931 million in stock buybacks, resulting in a payout ratio of 78% for the quarter.
Negative Updates
Renewable Diesel Segment Loss
The Renewable Diesel segment reported an operating loss of $28 million, compared to an operating income of $35 million in the previous year.
Benicia Refinery Closure Costs
There was an incremental depreciation expense of approximately $100 million related to the planned cessation of refining operations at the Benicia Refinery.
Company Guidance
During Valero Energy Corp.'s third quarter 2025 earnings call, the company provided guidance for its operations and financial expectations. The capital investments attributable to Valero for the year 2025 are projected to be approximately $1.9 billion, with $1.6 billion allocated for sustaining the business and the remainder for growth. In terms of refining operations, the company expects fourth-quarter throughput volumes to range between 1.78 million to 1.83 million barrels per day on the Gulf Coast, 420,000 to 440,000 barrels per day in the Mid-Continent, 240,000 to 260,000 barrels per day on the West Coast, and 485,000 to 505,000 barrels per day in the North Atlantic. Refining cash operating expenses are anticipated to be about $4.80 per barrel. For the Renewable Diesel segment, sales volumes are projected at approximately 258 million gallons, with operating expenses around $0.52 per gallon. The Ethanol segment is expected to maintain production at 4.6 million gallons per day, with operating expenses averaging $0.40 per gallon. Additionally, net interest expense for the fourth quarter is forecasted at approximately $135 million, and depreciation and amortization are expected to be around $815 million.

Valero Energy Financial Statement Overview

Summary
Valero Energy demonstrates resilience in its financial performance with strong operational efficiency and cash flow generation, despite revenue fluctuations. The high leverage poses a potential risk, but a solid equity base provides stability. Overall, the company is well-positioned within the Oil & Gas Refining & Marketing industry but must manage its leverage to mitigate financial risks.
Income Statement
75
Positive
Valero Energy's revenue has shown volatility, with a recent decline in TTM compared to previous years. However, the company maintains a respectable gross profit margin of 2.54% and a net profit margin of 0.62% in TTM. The EBIT and EBITDA margins are relatively stable, indicating operational efficiency. Despite recent revenue fluctuations, the company shows resilience in maintaining profitability.
Balance Sheet
65
Positive
Valero Energy's balance sheet reveals a high debt-to-equity ratio of 1.42, indicating significant leverage. The return on equity (ROE) is modest at 3.17%, reflecting moderate profitability for equity holders. The equity ratio is a solid 19.94%, showcasing a strong asset base against liabilities. While leverage is a concern, the company maintains a stable equity position.
Cash Flow
70
Positive
The company's cash flow statement shows strong free cash flow generation with a recent growth rate of -35.23% in TTM, reflecting challenges in maintaining previous cash flow levels. The operating cash flow to net income ratio is robust at 5.57, indicating efficient cash generation relative to net income. However, the free cash flow to net income ratio highlights some constraints in fully translating earnings to free cash flow.
BreakdownTTMDec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021Dec 2020
Income Statement
Total Revenue123.78B129.88B144.77B176.38B113.98B64.91B
Gross Profit3.08B4.76B12.89B16.75B3.08B-788.00M
EBITDA4.28B7.03B14.66B18.34B4.55B904.00M
Net Income764.00M2.77B8.84B11.53B930.00M-1.43B
Balance Sheet
Total Assets59.43B60.14B63.06B60.98B57.89B51.77B
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments4.56B4.66B5.42B4.86B4.12B3.31B
Total Debt10.65B11.54B12.64B12.72B15.13B15.85B
Total Liabilities32.49B32.62B34.53B35.51B38.07B32.13B
Stockholders Equity24.08B24.51B26.35B23.56B18.43B18.80B
Cash Flow
Free Cash Flow3.74B5.78B8.32B10.89B4.19B-840.00M
Operating Cash Flow4.25B6.68B9.23B12.57B5.86B948.00M
Investing Cash Flow-2.00B-1.98B-1.86B-2.81B-2.16B-2.42B
Financing Cash Flow-3.09B-5.05B-6.94B-8.85B-2.85B2.08B

Valero Energy Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Positive
Last Price176.01
Price Trends
50DMA
163.86
Positive
100DMA
152.12
Positive
200DMA
138.81
Positive
Market Momentum
MACD
2.94
Negative
RSI
63.24
Neutral
STOCH
55.54
Neutral
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For VLO, the sentiment is Positive. The current price of 176.01 is above the 20-day moving average (MA) of 166.08, above the 50-day MA of 163.86, and above the 200-day MA of 138.81, indicating a bullish trend. The MACD of 2.94 indicates Negative momentum. The RSI at 63.24 is Neutral, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 55.54 is Neutral, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Positive sentiment for VLO.

Valero 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
75
Outperform
$51.58B35.206.07%2.62%-8.48%-56.92%
73
Outperform
$54.70B37.105.38%3.46%-10.56%-53.06%
70
Outperform
$55.24B19.6015.98%1.86%-6.37%-25.83%
69
Neutral
$8.02B25.749.20%6.88%-5.18%-25.67%
68
Neutral
$9.83B25.724.07%3.79%-9.55%27.65%
65
Neutral
$15.17B7.614.09%5.20%3.87%-62.32%
55
Neutral
$4.09B-9.47%3.18%-15.35%-81.94%
* Energy Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
VLO
Valero Energy
176.01
43.66
32.99%
DINO
HF Sinclair Corporation
53.63
13.95
35.16%
MPC
Marathon Petroleum
192.72
42.42
28.22%
PSX
Phillips 66
138.20
16.37
13.44%
PBF
PBF Energy
36.84
7.31
24.75%
SUN
Sunoco
52.24
3.04
6.18%

Valero Energy Corporate Events

Business Operations and StrategyFinancial Disclosures
Valero Energy Reports Strong Q3 2025 Results and Future Optimizations
Positive
Oct 23, 2025

Valero Energy Corporation reported a significant increase in net income for the third quarter of 2025, with earnings reaching $1.1 billion, or $3.53 per share, compared to $364 million, or $1.14 per share, in the same period last year. The company also announced the optimization of its St. Charles FCC Unit, expected to commence operations in the latter half of 2026, reflecting its commitment to operational excellence and shareholder returns.

The most recent analyst rating on (VLO) stock is a Buy with a $216.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Valero Energy stock, see the VLO Stock Forecast page.

Business Operations and StrategyPrivate Placements and Financing
Valero Energy Amends Credit Agreement for Flexibility
Positive
Oct 16, 2025

On October 16, 2025, Valero Energy Corporation amended its revolving credit agreement, extending the maturity date to October 16, 2030, and increasing the potential revolving commitment to $5.5 billion. This move is aimed at enhancing the company’s financial flexibility for general corporate purposes, potentially impacting its operational capabilities and market positioning.

The most recent analyst rating on (VLO) stock is a Hold with a $162.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Valero Energy stock, see the VLO Stock Forecast page.

Business Operations and StrategyExecutive/Board Changes
Valero Energy Expands Board with New Director
Positive
Sep 19, 2025

On September 18, 2025, Valero Energy Corporation expanded its board of directors to 10 members by electing Robert L. Reymond as an independent director. Mr. Reymond, who has extensive experience in the energy industry, particularly in refining and low-carbon fuels, will serve on the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. This strategic appointment is expected to enhance Valero’s expertise in the energy sector, potentially impacting its operations and market positioning positively.

The most recent analyst rating on (VLO) stock is a Hold with a $185.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Valero Energy stock, see the VLO Stock Forecast page.

Valero Energy’s Q2 2025 Earnings Call Highlights
Jul 29, 2025

Valero Energy Corporation’s recent earnings call presented a mixed sentiment, highlighting both achievements and challenges. The company reported record refining throughput and strong shareholder returns, reflecting a positive outlook for refining fundamentals. However, these positives were tempered by declines in net income and losses in the renewable diesel segment, alongside the impending closure of the Benicia Refinery.

Valero Energy Reports Q2 2025 Financial Results
Jul 25, 2025

Valero Energy Corporation is a multinational manufacturer and marketer of petroleum-based and low-carbon liquid transportation fuels and petrochemical products, operating primarily in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Latin America. The company owns 15 petroleum refineries and 12 ethanol plants, and is involved in a joint venture for renewable diesel production.

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: Oct 24, 2025