SM Energy (SM) Declares Dividend of $0.20 per Share

Core Insights - SM Energy Company (NYSE:SM) is recognized as one of the 12 best crude oil stocks to buy for dividends [1] Dividend Information - SM Energy declared a quarterly dividend of $0.20 per share, scheduled for payment on January 9, 2026, to stockholders on record as of December 26 [2][3] - The company currently has a robust annual dividend yield of 4.23% [3] Merger and Acquisition Developments - On December 18, SM Energy received early termination from the FTC regarding its merger with Civitas Resources, clearing a significant regulatory hurdle [4] - The merger, announced in November, will create a combined company with approximately 823,000 net acres and expected annual synergies of $200 million to $300 million [4] - The $12.8 billion transaction is one of the largest consolidations in the shale sector and is anticipated to close in the first quarter of 2026 [4] Analyst Ratings and Price Target - KeyBanc lowered its price target for SM Energy from $36 to $28 but maintained an 'Overweight' rating on the shares, indicating confidence in the company's future performance [5] - The firm expects strong free cash flow, rapid deleveraging, and a prudent debt management strategy following the merger [5]