Exxon Mobil said Friday it managed to report a profit during the first quarter downturn, though pressure continued to build for U.S. counterpart Chevron. Exxon said its first quarter earnings of $1.8 billion was its weakest in more than a decade as “lower commodity prices and weaker refining margins” took their toll. First quarter figures compare with earnings of $4.9 billion one year ago. Rex Tillerson , the company’s chairman and chief executive officer, said a consistent strategy and performance in the chemicals sector helped Exxon endure tough market conditions. “The organization continues to respond effectively to challenging industry conditions, capturing enhancements to operational performance and creating margin uplift despite low prices,” he said in […]