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The extraordinary Q1 2026 rally in energy stocks has dramatically increased the intrinsic value of many Murphy Oil equity compensation grants, making strategic equity planning a high priority for affected employees — particularly those approaching vesting dates or option expirations.
In Q1 2026, Brent crude has surged to approximately ~$107/barrel and WTI to ~$94/barrel, as the ongoing Middle East conflict has restricted critical energy supply routes and strained global petroleum inventories.
The energy price shock has rippled into natural gas: Henry Hub is trading near ~$2.94/MMBtu while European TTF has moved to approximately ~$16.90/MMBtu, driven partly by Iran's strikes on Gulf LNG infrastructure.
The Q1 2026 energy rally has created significant unrealized gains in Murphy Oil equity compensation — but also increased the risk of over-concentration in a single energy sector stock at precisely the moment when volatility is highest.
Most Murphy Oil employees have already heard of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, if they or someone they know has plans to attend a college, career school, or university. Last year, around 70% of families submitted a FAFSA to the Department of Education to secure financial assistance. But what many prospective and current students may overlook are the various federal grants awarded to students in need each year.
Granted value
Most federal grants, unlike loans, function as sources of funding. There are some exceptions, though. For example, if a student is awarded a grant, but withdraws from the program in which they’re enrolled, they may be required to pay back all or a portion of that grant.
Know your grants
The Department of Education offers multiple aid packages as part of the Federal Student Grant Program and all Murphy Oil employees should be aware of them. The following four are granted most often, and each has different requirements for eligibility. The information below applies to the 2025-2026 academic year:
- Federal Pell Grants - With a maximum award of $7,395 for the 2025-2026 award year, Pell Grants are reserved for undergraduate students who have exceptional financial need and have not earned a bachelor’s, graduate, or professional degree yet.
- Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEO) - FSEO Grants award a maximum of $4,000 to those who demonstrate exceptional need and have not yet earned a bachelor’s or graduate degree. FSEO Grants also give priority to Pell Grant recipients over other applicants.
- Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants - These grants award a maximum of $7,395 for the 2025-2026 award year, and they're only for students whose parent or guardian served in a branch of the U.S. Armed Forces and died while serving in Iraq or Afghanistan after the events of 9/11.
- Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grants - TEACH Grants award a maximum of $4,000, and they’re reserved for students who are enrolled in teaching preparation programs and agree to teach for a minimum of 4 years at the elementary or secondary school level in a high-need field.
FAFSA Required
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No matter who you are or your financial situation, you may want to consider submitting a FAFSA. After all, the grants listed above do require recipients to have an application on file with the Department of Education. And who knows? The potential financial benefit that you as a Murphy Oil employee could secure may surprise you.
- StudentAid.gov, 2025
- StudentAid.gov, 2025
What type of retirement plan does Murphy Oil offer to its employees?
Murphy Oil offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.
How can employees of Murphy Oil enroll in the 401(k) plan?
Employees of Murphy Oil can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
Does Murphy Oil match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Murphy Oil provides a matching contribution to employee contributions, subject to specific terms and conditions.
What is the maximum employee contribution limit for Murphy Oil’s 401(k) plan?
The maximum employee contribution limit for Murphy Oil’s 401(k) plan follows the IRS guidelines, which may change annually.
Can employees of Murphy Oil take loans against their 401(k) savings?
Yes, employees of Murphy Oil may have the option to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to plan rules.
What investment options are available in Murphy Oil's 401(k) plan?
Murphy Oil’s 401(k) plan typically offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds.
Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in Murphy Oil’s 401(k) plan?
Yes, Murphy Oil has a vesting schedule for the employer match, which determines when employees fully own the matched contributions.
How often can employees change their contribution amounts in Murphy Oil's 401(k) plan?
Employees of Murphy Oil can change their contribution amounts during designated enrollment periods or as specified in the plan documents.
What happens to my 401(k) if I leave Murphy Oil?
If you leave Murphy Oil, you can roll over your 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash out, or leave it in the plan, depending on the plan’s rules.
Are there any fees associated with Murphy Oil's 401(k) plan?
Yes, there may be fees associated with Murphy Oil's 401(k) plan, which are outlined in the plan documents provided to employees.
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