ZACKS·2026-01-28 09:05Core Insights - U.S. natural gas prices have surged dramatically, reaching multi-year highs due to a sudden shift in weather forecasts and increased heating demand [2][3][4] Natural Gas Market Dynamics - Natural gas futures rose from approximately $3 per million British thermal units (MMBtu) to around $5.27 per MMBtu, marking a weekly gain of about 70%, the strongest increase in over three decades [3] - The surge in prices is attributed to colder weather forecasts, which heightened expectations for heating demand and tightened supply-demand balances [3][4] - A significant withdrawal of 120 billion cubic feet from U.S. storage levels was reported, leaving inventories slightly above the five-year average, which does not fully mitigate the risks posed by prolonged cold weather [5] Investment Opportunities - The recent price movements have reset expectations for natural gas, creating a constructive environment for gas-focused investors [6] - Companies such as Expand Energy, Comstock Resources, and Antero Resources have shown solid gains, reflecting improved sentiment in the market [7] Company Highlights - Expand Energy: The largest natural gas producer in the U.S. post-merger, with key assets in the Haynesville and Marcellus basins. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its 2026 earnings per share indicates a 31% year-over-year increase [8][9] - Comstock Resources: An independent producer focused on the Haynesville and Bossier shales, with a Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 earnings per share showing a 32.6% year-over-year surge [10][11] - Antero Resources: Focused on natural gas and liquids in the Appalachian Basin, with a low debt profile and strong production mix. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its 2026 earnings per share indicates an 87% year-over-year increase [12][13]