Shares of energy companies fell alongside oil futures, as the Omicron variant was seen as a threat to efforts to reopen the global economy.
U.S.-traded oil futures tumbled by 3.7% to close around $68 a barrel, the lowest level since Dec. 3.
The Biden administration raised fuel-efficiency standards for passenger cars and light-duty trucks, saying the new standards will reduce pollution and save consumers billions of dollars at the gas pump.
Exxon Mobil is looking to further reduce its debt, evaluating sustainability-linked financing instruments and preparing for potential new climate-related disclosure requirements, finance chief Kathryn Mikells said.
Write to Rob Curran at rob.curran@dowjones.com
(END) Dow Jones Newswires
12-20-21 1715ET
