Group 1 - Energy stocks are becoming attractive investments again, with natural gas prices increasing over 70% year-over-year and over 50% in the last three months [3] - Catalysts for this rally include early winter weather increasing heating demand, strong LNG exports to Europe amid supply concerns from Russia, and the long-term impact of AI buildout on energy prices [4] - Natural gas producers that continued drilling during lower price periods are now well-positioned, with improved balance sheets and production outlooks heading into 2026 [4] Group 2 - Expand Energy Corp. (NASDAQ: EXE) is positioned to benefit significantly from rising natural gas demand, with its stock up 17.8% year-to-date and a five-year total return of over 267% [5] - Despite past bankruptcy concerns related to Chesapeake Energy, Expand Energy has demonstrated improved operational efficiency [6] - The company anticipates achieving $500 million in annual synergies this year and about $600 million next year, which is expected to boost free cash flow by 30% this year and 20% in 2026 [7]
3 Companies to Watch as Natural Gas Stocks Make a Comeback