Conoco Phillips gas station- by helen89 via iStockConocoPhillips (COP), headquartered in Houston, Texas, explores for, produces, transports, and markets crude oil, bitumen, natural gas, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and natural gas liquids. More News from BarchartNarrowing the focus, COP's underperformance is apparent compared to the State Street SPDR S&P Oil & Gas Exploration & Production ETF (XOP). For the current fiscal year, ending in December, analysts expect COP's EPS to grow 49.4% to $9.20 on a diluted basis. That's based on 15 "Strong Buy" ratings, four "Moderate Buys," and seven "Holds." This configuration is more bullish than two months ago, with 14 analysts suggesting a "Strong Buy."