Ecopetrol SA (EC) shares surged 9.77% in pre-market trading on Wednesday, bucking the broader weakness in the energy sector. The Colombian oil and gas company's stock rally came after it reported lower Q4 net income and revenue, but still exceeded analysts' expectations.

While the Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLE) and other energy stocks declined in the pre-market session, Ecopetrol's strong Q4 performance seemed to drive investor optimism. The company's ability to deliver better-than-expected results, despite the challenging environment, likely boosted confidence in its operational efficiency and cost management strategies.

Ecopetrol's pre-market surge underscores the significance of its Q4 earnings beat in a period marked by volatility in oil and gas prices. As the energy sector navigates the ongoing market dynamics, companies that can consistently outperform expectations may find favor with investors, as highlighted by Ecopetrol's robust pre-market performance.