The Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) has surged 15% in early 2026, significantly outperforming the S&P 500's less than 1% gain. The rally is driven by a sharp rise in crude oil prices (Brent crude up 15% to over $70/barrel) due to supply disruption concerns in Venezuela and Iran. The ETF's high 19.9% weighting to energy stocks, particularly oil dividend payers like Chevron and ConocoPhillips, has fueled the outperformance. These oil companies offer high dividend yields with above-average growth rates and strong free cash flow projections through 2030.

Oil refining companies are experiencing strong performance in 2026 due to falling crude oil prices and rising demand for refined fuels. With crude expected to continue declining while fuel consumption grows, refiners' profit margins are expanding significantly. The article suggests a modest $1,000 investment in refiner stocks could be worthwhile, though geopolitical conflicts or recession pose risks.

Oil prices surged following President Trump's escalatory rhetoric toward Iran, with WTI crude rising to nearly $63/barrel and Brent crude reaching $68/barrel. Geopolitical tensions over the Strait of Hormuz, combined with U.S. supply disruptions from winter weather and a weaker dollar, drove the rally. Energy stocks significantly outperformed, with the XLE ETF up 11% this month, marking the sector's best performance since late 2022.

Billionaire investor Jim Mellon stated that Venezuela's oil industry recovery will take 5-10 years to reach previous production levels of 3 million barrels per day. However, he suggests US refiners with heavy crude capacity could benefit from eventual recovery and recommends investors 'load up on oil and gas.' US refiner stocks have rallied significantly following recent political developments in Venezuela.

Following Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's capture and extradition, crude oil prices have spiked as the Trump administration vows to rebuild Venezuela's oil industry. Chevron, the only major U.S. oil company with authorized operations in Venezuela, is positioned to lead this revival. The article highlights several energy stocks poised to benefit from increased Venezuelan oil production and exports, including oilfield service providers and refiners optimized for heavy crude processing.

Valero Energy (VLO) shares rose 3.39% following reports that the Trump administration will ease Venezuelan oil sanctions and resume indefinite crude shipments to the U.S., with initial shipments of 30-50 million barrels. The stock is trading near its 52-week high with strong bullish technical indicators including a golden cross and positive MACD momentum.

The US has placed Venezuela under temporary oversight, reshaping investment expectations for the country's vast oil reserves. President Trump has urged US energy firms to lead in rebuilding Venezuela's oil industry. Several US oil stocks surged in response, with Valero Energy jumping 9.2%, Phillips 66 rising 7.2%, and Chevron gaining over 5%. The article identifies 12 undervalued US oil stocks that may benefit from increased investment opportunities in Venezuela's energy sector.

Renowned investor Michael Burry is betting on a Venezuelan crude oil rebound following political changes in the country. He believes Gulf Coast refineries engineered for Venezuelan heavy crude will benefit from restored supply, improving operational efficiency and margins. Burry has held Valero Energy since 2020 and plans to hold longer, while also owning Halliburton and considering additional positions. He expects U.S. contractors and oil companies to benefit from infrastructure repairs and resolution of long-standing legal claims.

Former U.S. envoy Richard Haass suggests that Trump's military intervention in Venezuela is primarily motivated by access to the nation's oil reserves, with the White House potentially seeking a financial stake similar to Nvidia's 'Dragon Fee' arrangement. Major U.S. oil and gas companies saw significant overnight gains following the intervention, with Chevron, Halliburton, and Valero Energy stocks surging due to their exposure to Venezuelan oil production.

U.S. stock futures remained largely unchanged on Sunday evening following President Trump's announcement of American strikes on Venezuela that resulted in the capture of leader Nicolás Maduro. Trump stated that U.S. energy companies are prepared to invest billions in Venezuela's oil-rich economy. Leading U.S. oil stocks surged in overnight trading, while Asian markets showed mixed results on Monday morning. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq futures were slightly up, with no major earnings expected but ISM Manufacturing Index and auto sales data scheduled for release.

U.S. sanctions on Russian oil companies Rosneft and Lukoil triggered a sharp rebound in crude prices, boosting energy sector stocks and lifting broader market indices moderately.

Valero Energy reported Q3 earnings exceeding analyst expectations, with strong refining segment performance and high utilization rates. The company generated $32.2 billion in revenue and $3.66 adjusted earnings per share.