Marathon Petroleum (MPC): Growth, Guidance, and Market Outlook

Marathon Petroleum Corporation (NYSE:MPC) is among the best oil & gas refinery stocks to buy now. On February 9, BMO Capital raised its price target on Marathon Petroleum (NYSE:MPC) to $225 from $200, while keeping an Outperform rating. The upgrade came as shares traded near a 52‑week high after strong gains, supported by better‑than‑expected Q4 2025 results and positive Q1 2026 guidance.

BMO highlighted Marathon’s strong refining performance, noting that earnings per share over the past year reached $13.22 with a P/E ratio of 15.42. The firm lifted its long‑term forecasts, raising 2026 EBITDA by 3% and cash flow estimates by 2%, mainly driven by refining strength.

Midstream estimates were trimmed slightly, but BMO remains positive on MPLX’s pipeline projects, which are expected to deliver 5% EBITDA growth and double‑digit distribution growth. Overall, BMO values Marathon between $215 and $235, citing its advantaged refining footprint across key U.S. regions.

Marathon Petroleum Corporation (NYSE:MPC) is a U.S. energy company that works in the downstream part of the oil business. It has three main areas: Refining & Marketing, where crude oil is turned into fuels and sold. The second is Midstream, which covers pipelines and storage to move oil and fuel. The third is Renewable Diesel, focused on cleaner fuel made from renewable sources.

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