Marathon Petroleum CEO Expecting Flat 2018 Demand

The transcript discusses recent MPLX transactions, including cash flow and IDR rights exchange, and outlines a capital return program with increased dividends and share buybacks. It highlights investment opportunities in refining, midstream, and retail sectors, noting strong demand and favorable market conditions. Labor costs are rising, particularly in retail, and the company is exploring M&A opportunities. Oil prices are expected to remain stable, with demand predicted to be flat or slightly up. The company is strong in the Permian and Marcellus Utica regions, with increased production and a focus on inventory management.

What was one of the key financial actions taken with MPLX?

• Selling off retail assets

• Reducing dividend payouts

• Dropping a billion dollars of cash flow

• Issuing new bonds

How did the company plan to handle rising unit labor costs?

• By increasing product prices

• By cutting down on investments

• By focusing on retail sector adjustments

• By reducing workforce

What is the company's strategy for the retail space?

• Exiting the market

• Targeting acquisitions

• Reducing capital investment

• Focusing solely on online sales

What is the expected trend for diesel demand according to the company?

• Remain stable

• Grow continuously

• Fluctuate unpredictably

• Decrease significantly

What is the company's outlook on oil prices for the year?

• Prices will drop below $50

• Prices will remain around $70

• Prices will exceed $100

• Prices will be highly volatile

Which region is expected to see a significant increase in production?

• North Sea

• Alaska

• Permian and Marcellus Utica

• Gulf of Mexico

What is the company's expectation for global crude oil inventory?

• It will deplete completely

• It will come into a balanced position

• It will remain unchanged

• It will increase significantly