Advertisement
NOV vs SLB
Which Stock Would AI Choose? NOV Inc. (NOV) vs. SLB (SLB) Stock Comparison
Key Takeaways
- NOV and SLB both operate in oilfield services, but they occupy different niches: NOV focuses on capital equipment and drilling technology, while SLB is the world's largest integrated services provider.
- Both companies faced revenue and margin pressure from recent Middle East disruptions, yet each reported quarterly results that beat analyst expectations.
- SLB generates roughly four times NOV's revenue and is far larger by market capitalization, giving it greater scale and geographic diversification.
- NOV has demonstrated stronger trailing share-price momentum, while SLB trades at a more moderate valuation multiple with a larger dividend and buyback program.
- Both names carry elevated exposure to the pace of Middle East recovery, offshore activity, and oil and gas capital spending cycles.
Introduction
NOV Inc. (NOV) and SLB (SLB) are two of the most widely followed names in the energy equipment and services industry. Although they compete for the same pool of upstream investment, their business models and market positioning differ meaningfully. NOV is primarily a manufacturer of drilling and production equipment, while SLB delivers integrated services, software, and technology across the full oilfield lifecycle. For traders and investors evaluating sector exposure, this stock comparison offers a useful lens on how scale, growth drivers, and risk factors diverge between two established industry players.
NOV Overview and Recent Performance
NOV Inc., formerly National Oilwell Varco, designs and manufactures systems and equipment for oil and gas drilling and production, with two reporting segments: Energy Equipment and Energy Products and Services. The company is a leading supplier of drill pipe, drill bits, subsea flexible pipe, pressure pumping equipment, and digital automation technologies, giving it outsized exposure to long-cycle offshore projects and capital equipment orders.
In recent quarters, NOV's revenue trended modestly lower on a year-over-year basis, pressured by softer drilling activity and logistics disruptions tied to Middle East conflict. However, its earnings consistently exceeded consensus, supported by improving Energy Equipment margins and strong offshore demand. Management reported a capital equipment backlog of roughly $4.1 billion and highlighted record performance in its subsea flexible pipe business, with order lead times extending into 2028. The company also expanded shareholder returns through buybacks and dividend increases. Over the trailing twelve months, NOV's share price advanced more than 40%, reflecting a stronger relative performance profile than much of its peer group, even as the stock eased in recent weeks.
SLB Overview and Recent Performance
SLB, formerly Schlumberger, is the largest oilfield services company globally, with operations spanning well construction, production systems, reservoir performance, and a fast-growing digital division. Its acquisition of ChampionX strengthened its position in production chemicals and artificial lift, while its emerging Data Center Solutions business adds a technology-driven growth lever beyond traditional energy.
In its most recent quarter, SLB posted revenue of approximately $8.97 billion and adjusted earnings per share of $0.55, both above analyst estimates. Growth in North America and Latin America helped offset a double-digit decline in Middle East and Asia revenue caused by regional disruptions. The digital segment expanded sequentially, and Data Center Solutions revenue grew sharply, with management targeting more than $1 billion in annualized run-rate revenue by year-end. SLB generated $716 million of free cash flow in the quarter and reiterated plans for at least $2.4 billion of share repurchases in 2026. Despite solid fundamentals, SLB's stock has lagged some peers in recent weeks, and it carries a forward price-to-earnings multiple near 19 times.
Trending AI Robots
Tickeron operates hundreds of AI Trading Bots that collectively trade thousands of different tickers, each built around distinct trading styles, strategies, timeframes, and performance statistics. Given how rapidly market conditions shift, only a narrow subset of these bots is genuinely well-suited to the current environment. That is the purpose of the curated Trending AI Robots page, which highlights the bots demonstrating the most relevant and timely configurations right now. Each featured bot is paired with its own set of tickers, holding periods, and risk parameters, so traders can evaluate options aligned with their preferred approach rather than a one-size-fits-all signal. Explore the Trending AI Robots section to review current performance data and identify tools suited to your trading style.
Head-to-Head Comparison
The clearest contrast between the two companies is scale and business mix. SLB's revenue is roughly four times that of NOV, and its integrated model spans services, software, and technology, whereas NOV is more concentrated in manufactured equipment and consumables. This makes NOV more leveraged to capital equipment orders and backlog conversion, while SLB benefits from recurring service activity and a larger geographic footprint.
On growth drivers, both firms are tied to offshore and international activity, but SLB adds meaningful upside from digital solutions and data centers, areas where NOV has a smaller presence. NOV, in turn, has emphasized automation and drilling technology, including robotics and real-time data transmission, which support market-share gains in drill bits and equipment.
Risk profiles also differ. NOV's higher price-to-earnings ratio and heavier dependence on equipment orders make its valuation more sensitive to a slowdown in new project commitments. SLB's largest market, the Middle East, represented about 34% of its 2025 revenue, concentrating its exposure to regional instability. Market sentiment has favored NOV's recent earnings momentum, while SLB's broader diversification and capital returns appeal to investors seeking scale and stability. Neither stock is insulated from oil-price volatility or the pace of Middle East recovery.
Tickeron AI Verdict
Based on observable factors, Tickeron's AI would likely lean toward NOV on the basis of trend consistency and relative momentum, given its stronger trailing price performance, improving equipment margins, and a multi-year offshore backlog. At the same time, SLB presents a more balanced risk profile through scale, diversification, digital growth, and consistent capital returns. The AI's preference would therefore depend on the specific strategy applied: trend-following models may favor NOV, while stability-oriented and longer-horizon models could tilt toward SLB. Neither outcome represents a prediction of future performance, and the relative positioning of both stocks can shift quickly with commodity prices and geopolitical developments.
Disclaimer
The information on this webpage is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as investment advice, a recommendation to purchase or sell any security, or an offer or solicitation related to investments. It does not consider your personal financial situation, goals, or risk profile, and all investing carries inherent risks, including the possibility of losing your entire investment. For more details, please review our full disclaimer.
To compare these two companies we present long-term analysis, their fundamental ratings and make comparative short-term technical analysis which are presented below. The conclusion is NOV is a Buy and SLB is a Buy.
NOV's Stochastic Oscillator is remaining in oversold zone for 2 days
Be on the lookout for a price bounce soon.
Technical Analysis (Indicators)
Bullish Trend Analysis
The RSI Indicator entered the oversold zone -- be on the watch for NOV's price rising or consolidating in the future. That's also the time to consider buying the stock or exploring call options.
Following a +4.00% 3-day Advance, the price is estimated to grow further. Considering data from situations where NOV advanced for three days, in 233 of 314 cases, the price rose further within the following month. The odds of a continued upward trend are 74%.
NOV may jump back above the lower band and head toward the middle band. Traders may consider buying the stock or exploring call options.
Bearish Trend Analysis
The Momentum Indicator moved below the 0 level on November 02, 2026. You may want to consider selling the stock, shorting the stock, or exploring put options on NOV as a result. In 64 of 94 cases where the Momentum Indicator fell below 0, the stock fell further within the subsequent month. The odds of a continued downward trend are 68%.
The Moving Average Convergence Divergence Histogram (MACD) for NOV turned negative on November 03, 2026. This could be a sign that the stock is set to turn lower in the coming weeks. Traders may want to sell the stock or buy put options. Tickeron's A.I.dvisor looked at 53 similar instances when the indicator turned negative. In 30 of the 53 cases the stock turned lower in the days that followed. This puts the odds of success at 57%.
NOV moved below its 50-day moving average on October 28, 2026 date and that indicates a change from an upward trend to a downward trend.
Following a 3-day decline, the stock is projected to fall further. Considering past instances where NOV declined for three days, the price rose further in 50 of 62 cases within the following month. The odds of a continued downward trend are 66%.
The Aroon Indicator for NOV entered a downward trend on October 28, 2026. This could indicate a strong downward move is ahead for the stock. Traders may want to consider selling the stock or buying put options.
Fundamental Analysis (Ratings)
The Tickeron PE Growth Rating for this company is 2 (best 1 - 100 worst), pointing to outstanding earnings growth. The PE Growth rating is based on a comparative analysis of stock PE ratio increase over the last 12 months compared against S&P 500 index constituents.
The Tickeron Price Growth Rating for this company is 58 (best 1 - 100 worst), indicating steady price growth. NOV’s price grows at a higher rate over the last 12 months as compared to S&P 500 index constituents.
The Tickeron Valuation Rating of 75 (best 1 - 100 worst) indicates that the company is slightly overvalued in the industry. This rating compares market capitalization estimated by our proprietary formula with the current market capitalization. This rating is based on the following metrics, as compared to industry averages: P/B Ratio (0.999) is normal, around the industry mean (1.413). P/E Ratio (64.407) is within average values for comparable stocks, (-20.732). Projected Growth (PEG Ratio) (0.787) is also within normal values, averaging (1.687). Dividend Yield (0.021) settles around the average of (0.044) among similar stocks. P/S Ratio (0.873) is also within normal values, averaging (1.663).
The Tickeron Profit vs. Risk Rating rating for this company is 75 (best 1 - 100 worst), indicating that the returns do not compensate for the risks. NOV’s unstable profits reported over time resulted in significant Drawdowns within these last five years. A stable profit reduces stock drawdown and volatility. The average Profit vs. Risk Rating rating for the industry is 74, placing this stock worse than average.
The Tickeron SMR rating for this company is 89 (best 1 - 100 worst), indicating weak sales and an unprofitable business model. SMR (Sales, Margin, Return on Equity) rating is based on comparative analysis of weighted Sales, Income Margin and Return on Equity values compared against S&P 500 index constituents. The weighted SMR value is a proprietary formula developed by Tickeron and represents an overall profitability measure for a stock.
SLB's RSI Oscillator climbs out of oversold territory
The RSI Indicator for SLB moved out of oversold territory on October 08, 2026. This could be a sign that the stock is shifting from a downward trend to an upward trend. Traders may want to buy the stock or call options. The A.I.dvisor looked at 24 similar instances when the indicator left oversold territory. In 21 of the 24 cases the stock moved higher. This puts the odds of a move higher at 88%.
Technical Analysis (Indicators)
Bullish Trend Analysis
The Momentum Indicator moved above the 0 level on October 21, 2026. You may want to consider a long position or call options on SLB as a result. In 62 of 86 past instances where the momentum indicator moved above 0, the stock continued to climb. The odds of a continued upward trend are 72%.
The 10-day moving average for SLB crossed bullishly above the 50-day moving average on November 02, 2026. This indicates that the trend has shifted higher and could be considered a buy signal. In 12 of 19 past instances when the 10-day crossed above the 50-day, the stock continued to move higher over the following month. The odds of a continued upward trend are 63%.
Following a +1.92% 3-day Advance, the price is estimated to grow further. Considering data from situations where SLB advanced for three days, in 214 of 315 cases, the price rose further within the following month. The odds of a continued upward trend are 68%.
Bearish Trend Analysis
The Stochastic Oscillator may be shifting from an upward trend to a downward trend. In 48 of 64 cases where SLB's Stochastic Oscillator exited the overbought zone, the price fell further within the following month. The odds of a continued downward trend are 75%.
The Moving Average Convergence Divergence Histogram (MACD) for SLB turned negative on November 05, 2026. This could be a sign that the stock is set to turn lower in the coming weeks. Traders may want to sell the stock or buy put options. Tickeron's A.I.dvisor looked at 41 similar instances when the indicator turned negative. In 32 of the 41 cases the stock turned lower in the days that followed. This puts the odds of success at 78%.
SLB moved below its 50-day moving average on November 02, 2026 date and that indicates a change from an upward trend to a downward trend.
Following a 3-day decline, the stock is projected to fall further. Considering past instances where SLB declined for three days, the price rose further in 50 of 62 cases within the following month. The odds of a continued downward trend are 64%.
SLB broke above its upper Bollinger Band on October 23, 2026. This could be a sign that the stock is set to drop as the stock moves back below the upper band and toward the middle band. You may want to consider selling the stock or exploring put options.
The Aroon Indicator for SLB entered a downward trend on October 22, 2026. This could indicate a strong downward move is ahead for the stock. Traders may want to consider selling the stock or buying put options.
Fundamental Analysis (Ratings)
The Tickeron PE Growth Rating for this company is 7 (best 1 - 100 worst), pointing to outstanding earnings growth. The PE Growth rating is based on a comparative analysis of stock PE ratio increase over the last 12 months compared against S&P 500 index constituents.
The Tickeron Price Growth Rating for this company is 46 (best 1 - 100 worst), indicating steady price growth. SLB’s price grows at a higher rate over the last 12 months as compared to S&P 500 index constituents.
The Tickeron Profit vs. Risk Rating rating for this company is 50 (best 1 - 100 worst), indicating well-balanced risk and returns. The average Profit vs. Risk Rating rating for the industry is 74, placing this stock slightly better than average.
The Tickeron SMR rating for this company is 60 (best 1 - 100 worst), indicating strong sales and a profitable business model. SMR (Sales, Margin, Return on Equity) rating is based on comparative analysis of weighted Sales, Income Margin and Return on Equity values compared against S&P 500 index constituents. The weighted SMR value is a proprietary formula developed by Tickeron and represents an overall profitability measure for a stock.
The Tickeron Valuation Rating of 68 (best 1 - 100 worst) indicates that the company is slightly overvalued in the industry. This rating compares market capitalization estimated by our proprietary formula with the current market capitalization. This rating is based on the following metrics, as compared to industry averages: P/B Ratio (2.825) is normal, around the industry mean (1.413). P/E Ratio (23.865) is within average values for comparable stocks, (-20.732). Projected Growth (PEG Ratio) (1.357) is also within normal values, averaging (1.687). Dividend Yield (0.024) settles around the average of (0.044) among similar stocks. P/S Ratio (2.166) is also within normal values, averaging (1.663).
NOV | SLB | ||
|---|---|---|---|
OUTLOOK RATING 1..100 | 68 | 76 | |
VALUATION overvalued / fair valued / undervalued 1..100 | 75 Overvalued | 68 Overvalued | |
PROFIT vs RISK RATING 1..100 | 75 | 50 | |
SMR RATING 1..100 | 89 | 60 | |
PRICE GROWTH RATING 1..100 | 58 | 46 | |
P/E GROWTH RATING 1..100 | 2 | 7 | |
SEASONALITY SCORE 1..100 | 39 | 85 |
Tickeron ratings are formulated such that a rating of 1 designates the most successful stocks in a given industry, while a rating of 100 points to the least successful stocks for that industry.
SLB's Valuation (68) in the Oilfield Services Or Equipment industry is in the same range as NOV (75). This means that SLB’s stock grew similarly to NOV’s over the last 12 months.
SLB's Profit vs Risk Rating (50) in the Oilfield Services Or Equipment industry is in the same range as NOV (75). This means that SLB’s stock grew similarly to NOV’s over the last 12 months.
SLB's SMR Rating (60) in the Oilfield Services Or Equipment industry is in the same range as NOV (89). This means that SLB’s stock grew similarly to NOV’s over the last 12 months.
SLB's Price Growth Rating (46) in the Oilfield Services Or Equipment industry is in the same range as NOV (58). This means that SLB’s stock grew similarly to NOV’s over the last 12 months.
NOV's P/E Growth Rating (2) in the Oilfield Services Or Equipment industry is in the same range as SLB (7). This means that NOV’s stock grew similarly to SLB’s over the last 12 months.
| NOV | SLB | |
|---|---|---|
| RSI ODDS (%) | 2 days ago 70% | 2 days ago 88% |
| Stochastic ODDS (%) | 2 days ago 80% | 2 days ago 75% |
| Momentum ODDS (%) | 2 days ago 68% | 2 days ago 72% |
| MACD ODDS (%) | 2 days ago 57% | 2 days ago 78% |
| TrendWeek ODDS (%) | 2 days ago 62% | 2 days ago 66% |
| TrendMonth ODDS (%) | 2 days ago 63% | 2 days ago 64% |
| Advances ODDS (%) | 11 days ago 74% | 11 days ago 68% |
| Declines ODDS (%) | 2 days ago 66% | 2 days ago 64% |
| BollingerBands ODDS (%) | 2 days ago 69% | 2 days ago 65% |
| Aroon ODDS (%) | 2 days ago 52% | 2 days ago 63% |
Long-Term Analysis
It is best to consider a long-term outlook for a ticker by using Fundamental Analysis (FA) ratings. The rating of 1 to 100, where 1 is best and 100 is worst, is divided into thirds. The first third (a green rating of 1-33) indicates that the ticker is undervalued; the second third (a grey number between 34 and 66) means that the ticker is valued fairly; and the last third (red number of 67 to 100) reflects that the ticker is overvalued. We use an FA Score to show how many ratings show the ticker to be undervalued (green) or overvalued (red).
NOV’s FA Score shows that 1 FA rating(s) are green while SLB’s FA Score has 1 green FA rating(s).
- NOV’s FA Score: 1 green, 4 red.
- SLB’s FA Score: 1 green, 4 red.
Short-Term Analysis
It is best to consider a short-term outlook for a ticker by using Technical Analysis (TA) indicators. We use Odds of Success as the percentage of outcomes which confirm successful trade signals in the past.
If the Odds of Success (the likelihood of the continuation of a trend) for each indicator are greater than 50%, then the generated signal is confirmed. A green percentage from 90% to 51% indicates that the ticker is in a bullish trend. A red percentage from 90% - 51% indicates that the ticker is in a bearish trend. All grey percentages are below 50% and are considered not to confirm the trend signal.
NOV’s TA Score shows that 4 TA indicator(s) are bullish while SLB’s TA Score has 4 bullish TA indicator(s).
- NOV’s TA Score: 4 bullish, 5 bearish.
- SLB’s TA Score: 4 bullish, 6 bearish.
Price Growth
NOV (@Oilfield Services/Equipment) experienced а -10.18% price change this week, while SLB (@Oilfield Services/Equipment) price change was -7.75% for the same time period.
The average weekly price growth across all stocks in the @Oilfield Services/Equipment industry was -11.77%. For the same industry, the average monthly price growth was -11.80%, and the average quarterly price growth was -19.49%.
Reported Earning Dates
NOV is expected to report earnings on Feb 04, 2027.
SLB is expected to report earnings on Jan 15, 2027.
Industries' Descriptions
@Oilfield Services/Equipment (-11.77% weekly)The oilfield services/equipment industry is involved in providing various equipment and services to oil and natural gas producers. These companies rent drilling rigs and/or provide services to build and maintain oil and gas wells. The performance of this industry is dependent on demand for oil and natural gas, which in turn is often driven by macroeconomic conditions or business cycles. Schlumberger NV, Halliburton Company, and Baker Hughes are some of the biggest oilfield services companies.
Advertisement
| 1 Day | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| ETFs / NAME | Price $ | Chg $ | Chg % |
| LVLN | 24.40 | -0.14 | -0.58% |
| State Street SPDR S&P Leveraged Loan ETF (LVLN) | |||
| DTH | 56.35 | -0.85 | -1.49% |
| WisdomTree International High Dividend Fund (DTH) | |||
| JAVA | 83.04 | -2.33 | -2.73% |
| JPMorgan Active Value ETF (JAVA) | |||
| RAFE | 50.36 | -1.65 | -3.17% |
| PIMCO RAFI ESG U.S. ETF (RAFE) | |||
| BGRO | 36.43 | -2.95 | -7.49% |
| iShares Large Cap Growth Active ETF (BGRO) | |||