Exxon Mobil Corporation closed Friday's trading session with a 2.0% gain, reaching $149.05 per share. The advance occurred as crude oil prices strengthened following reports of heightened geopolitical friction between the United States and Iran, with Oman acting as a mediator in discussions.
The broader market displayed robust risk appetite, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average closing above the 50,000 milestone for the first time. The energy sector within the S&P 500 also achieved a record high, contributing to the benchmark index's nearly 2% gain for the day.
Oil benchmarks found support, with Brent crude settling at $68.05 per barrel and U.S. West Texas Intermediate finishing at $63.55. Market participants closely monitored developments in the Middle East, aware that stability in key shipping lanes remains a critical factor for energy prices.
Exxon's stock performance often correlates with movements in crude oil markets. Meanwhile, industry peers also posted gains; Chevron added 0.8% to close at $180.86, while ConocoPhillips rose approximately 2.5% to $107.62.
Attention now turns to the company's upcoming dividend. Exxon has set a shareholder record date of February 12, 2026, for its first-quarter payout of $1.03 per share, scheduled for distribution on March 10. The firm is also expected to release an updated corporate presentation on February 20.
Monday's market reopening will test whether Exxon can maintain its position above the $149 level as oil trading resumes. The immediate focus for income-focused investors is the February 12 cutoff to be eligible for the March dividend payment.
