Patterson-UTI (PTEN) preferred over Exxon (XOM), Halliburton (HAL) in energy stock screen

An investor research note published May 14, 2026, singled out Patterson-UTI Energy (NASDAQ: PTEN) as the preferred pick among three energy stocks, while taking a cautious view on ExxonMobil (NYSE: XOM) and Halliburton (NYSE: HAL). The note cited Patterson-UTI’s $4.34 billion market value, 135 Tier-1 super-spec rigs and valuation of 6.1 times forward EV-to-EBITDA. Shares were quoted at $11.60. ExxonMobil, with a $599.2 billion market capitalization, was listed at $144.25 and 12 times forward earnings. Halliburton, valued at $33.27 billion, was quoted at $39.88 and 16.3 times forward earnings. The broader energy sector has gained 31.6% over the six months ended May 14, 2026, outpacing the S&P 500’s 7.1% return, helped by expectations for a more favorable U.S. regulatory stance under the Trump administration.