3 No-Brainer Energy and Utility Stocks to Buy With $2,000 Right Now

Group 1: Investment Overview - Energy Transfer, Xylem, and Waste Management are identified as stable investment options amid macroeconomic challenges such as higher tariffs, inflation, and elevated interest rates [1][2] - These companies are expected to generate stable and predictable returns due to the essential nature of their services, making them attractive for conservative investors [2] Group 2: Energy Transfer - Energy Transfer operates over 125,000 miles of pipeline across 44 U.S. states, serving as a major midstream company for transporting natural gas, NGLs, crude oil, and refined products [3] - As a master limited partnership (MLP), it offers a forward dividend yield of nearly 7% and has increased its payout annually for 12 years [4] - From 2014 to 2024, its earnings per unit (EPU) grew at a CAGR of 8%, with expectations of a 12% CAGR from 2024 to 2027 [5][6] - The stock is currently valued at 11 times next year's projected EPU, indicating it may be a safe haven for income-oriented investors [6] Group 3: Xylem - Xylem is a leading water technology provider, offering products for water delivery, usage analysis, and wastewater treatment across over 150 countries [7] - Its earnings per share (EPS) grew at a CAGR of 7% from 2014 to 2024, with a projected CAGR of 13% from 2024 to 2027 due to increasing global demand for clean water [8] - The stock is valued at 27 times next year's earnings and offers a forward yield of 1.4%, positioning it as a key player in the global water infrastructure market [9] Group 4: Waste Management - Waste Management serves over 20 million customers and is a leading waste disposal and recycling company in North America, also converting waste into renewable energy [10][11] - Its EPS grew at a CAGR of 9% from 2014 to 2024, with expectations of a 12% CAGR from 2024 to 2027 [12][13] - The stock is valued at 26 times next year's earnings and offers a forward yield of 1.5%, making it a solid investment in the growing demand for efficient waste management and recycling services [13]