CLAIM #16575 · ConocoPhillips (COP) · 2026Q1 earnings call · Apr 30, 2026 · due Dec 31, 2026
“We will maintain and protect our investment-grade balance sheet.”
Ryan Lance · CEO
How to check this claim
Look at: Company's credit ratings from major agencies (S&P, Moody's, Fitch)
It came true if: All rated agencies maintain issuer/senior unsecured rating at investment grade (S&P/Fitch BBB- or higher, Moody's Baa3 or higher) throughout the period
Where: Company credit ratings as disclosed in 10-K/investor materials or rating agency press releases
In context
“a, extending the life of the LNG facility well into the next decade. This is a strategically located asset in a gas-rich part of the world surrounded by discovered resource, which supports its long-term potential. Additionally, the Port Arthur LNG project continues to progress very well with first LNG expected next year. Turning to the outlook, while ongoing events have significantly tightened crude oil and LNG markets, the macro environment remains volatile and pretty impossible to predict. Amid such uncertainty, it is critical our priorities remain steadfast. They are clear, consistent, and durable. They have served us well for the last decade and will continue to guide us into the future. We will continue delivering base dividend growth competitive with the top quartile of the S&P 500. We will maintain and protect our investment-grade balance sheet. Recall last year, we were one of the only companies that delivered on our shareholder return objectives and strengthened the balance sheet. We will continue returning significant CFO to shareholders right off the top. We have averaged about 45% over the past decade through the cycles. And after meeting all these priorities, we will evaluate disciplined reinvestment for growth. In terms of how these priorities are translating to our 2026 plan, our expected CFO generation is up materially given our unhedged oil and LNG torque. Shareholders will directly share in this upside with our 45% of CFO return of capital objective. We have also added a modest amount of Permian activity over the second half of the year to maintain our operational efficiency into 2027. Long term, ConocoPhillips continu”
Verify independently
SEC filings for COP ↗ · Claim quote is verbatim from the 2026Q1 earnings call.