In a few minutes, Exxon (first, then all other energy companies) will confirm if the earnings collapse so many had predicted to take place in Q1 as a result of plunging crude prices will materialize. Wait, did we say "so many", make that nobody. Here is what Factset has to say about forecast Q1 energy earnings: "On September 30, the estimated earnings growth rate for the Energy sector for Q1 2015 was 3.3%. By December 31, the estimated growth rate fell to -28.9%. Today, it stands at -53.8%." Just a little off. This is what a difference 4 months makes. Source: Factset