Eni Raises 2025 Cash-Flow Guidance Confirms $1.8B Buyback Amid Profit Decline

European natural gas prices are expected to decline over 4% this week due to ample supplies and increased storage ahead of winter, aided by reduced Chinese LNG demand. Oil prices rose slightly on optimism about a U.S.-EU trade deal and President Trump's approval for Chevron to resume Venezuelan oil production, potentially increasing exports by over 200,000 barrels per day. Italian energy company Eni raised its cash flow guidance and confirmed a substantial share buyback program of up to $1.76 billion despite lower oil prices and currency challenges, with CEO Claudio Descalzi indicating the buyback could increase if positive trends continue. Eni reported a 25% year-on-year drop in second-quarter adjusted net profit but surpassed analyst expectations, while improving leverage and reaffirming positive outlooks for its gas and LNG divisions. The company plans to accelerate hydrocarbon production and finalize a transformational gas asset deal with Malaysia's Petronas by year-end. Overall, these developments reflect a cautiously optimistic energy market influenced by geopolitical moves, trade negotiations, and strategic corporate decisions.