$13B in Venezuelan Oil Sold: How it Affects Major US Energy Companies

The US government's seizure and sale of over $13 billion in Venezuelan oil have injected fresh supply into global markets, sparked political debate in Washington, and put a spotlight on major US energy companies. This development has created both opportunities and risks across the sector for investors.

Green Plains, a Nebraska-based producer of low-carbon ethanol and related products, could see its margins benefit from cheaper Venezuelan crude easing broader fuel input costs. The company generates most of its revenue from ethanol production, including corn oil and partnerships, at around $1.8 billion. Green Plains trades on a relatively low price-to-sales multiple compared to peers.

Cheniere Energy, a Houston-based energy infrastructure company that liquefies US natural gas, benefits from large export volumes and long-term contracts. However, the company recently reported a net loss of $3.5 billion in Q1 2026 and has a high debt load that amplifies both returns and risk.

Excelerate Energy, which operates floating liquefied natural gas regasification terminals, generates most of its revenue from long-term take-or-pay contracts that can help smooth earnings through price swings. However, the company's high price-to-earnings ratio near 30x leaves little room for disappointment if contract wins slow or funding costs rise.