"Exxon and Chevron's Record-Breaking Shareholder Payouts Amidst Oil Profit Surge"

ExxonMobil and Chevron reported near-record profits and paid out a combined $58.7 billion to shareholders in 2023, despite plans to spend less on climate solutions. The companies' actions have drawn criticism for prioritizing shareholder rewards over investing in clean energy, especially as their planned mergers are expected to spike greenhouse gas emissions by over 20% in 2024. Environmental groups have condemned the companies for their impact on climate change and local communities, calling for a shift away from fossil fuels and accountability for environmental damage.