The average Social Security paycheck for retired workers is just over $2,000 monthly. If you’re living on a single income of roughly that amount, it might not be enough to make ends meet. GOBankingRates spoke with financial experts to get their thoughts on how solo retirees can stretch their Social Security checks. Here’s what they said. Watch Out: 8 Common Mistakes Retirees Make With Their Social Security Checks Read Next: 7 Luxury SUVs That Will Become Affordable in 2025 Downsize, Downsize, Downsize O ...

Core Viewpoint - Exelon Corporation (EXC) is expected to be a consistent performer in the utility industry due to its investments in grid modernization, electric transmission, and cost-saving efforts, despite facing risks related to equipment failures [1] Group 1: Investments and Growth - Exelon plans to invest over $38 billion in regulated utility operations from 2025 to 2028, representing a 10% increase over previous plans, aimed at meeting customer needs and maintaining grid reliability [2] - The systematic investments are projected to ensure a rate-based growth of approximately 7.4% from 2024 to 2028, with approved distribution rates expected to enhance revenues and profitability [3] - Exelon serves over 10 million customers, benefiting from tax reforms, energy efficiency programs, and effective cost management, keeping expenses below inflation [3][7] Group 2: Risks and Challenges - Risks include potential failures of equipment or facilities in delivery systems, which could disrupt electric transmission and supply, leading to revenue losses and increased maintenance costs [4] - Extreme weather conditions or storm damage may strain transmission and distribution systems, resulting in higher maintenance expenditures and reduced capacity to meet peak demands [5] Group 3: Stock Performance - Over the past six months, EXC shares have increased by 14%, outperforming the industry growth of 7.6% [6][7]

Core Viewpoint - ExxonMobil is presented as a reliable dividend stock with a strong history of dividend payments and growth, making it an attractive option for income-focused investors [1][2]. Group 1: Dividend and Shareholder Returns - ExxonMobil has paid and raised its dividends for 42 consecutive years, with only 4% of S&P 500 companies achieving similar streaks [1]. - In the first quarter, ExxonMobil returned over $9 billion to shareholders through dividends and buybacks, with plans to repurchase $20 billion in stock in 2025 and 2026 [11]. - The annual capital return program exceeds $37 billion, representing around 8% of its market cap, highlighting the company's commitment to returning capital to shareholders [11]. Group 2: Financial Health and Cost Management - ExxonMobil's net-debt-to-capital ratio stands at 7%, indicating a strong balance sheet compared to peers like Chevron, which has a ratio of 14.4% [12]. - The company has increased structural cost savings by $7 billion, totaling $18 billion by 2030, demonstrating effective cost management [5]. - Plans to reduce the breakeven operating figure to $35 per barrel by 2027 and $30 by 2030 are in place, with current Brent prices around $65 per barrel [7][8]. Group 3: Capital Expenditures and Production Growth - ExxonMobil intends to invest $27 billion to $29 billion in capital expenditures in 2025, increasing to $28 billion to $33 billion from 2026 to 2030 [6]. - The company aims to increase production from an average of 4.6 million barrels of oil equivalent per day (boe/d) in 2025 to 5.4 million boe/d by 2030, with advantaged assets growing to account for 60% of total output [9]. - Advantaged assets, which are high-margin plays, currently make up about half of production and are expected to drive growth in the coming years [9][10]. Group 4: Investment Thesis and Market Position - ExxonMobil's corporate plan outlines clear medium-term and long-term expectations, providing a framework for investors to measure progress [4]. - The company's focus on efficiency improvements and low production costs positions it well to sustain long-term investments and capital returns, even in lower oil price environments [15]. - With a price-to-earnings ratio of 14.4 and a dividend yield of 3.7%, ExxonMobil is viewed as a compelling value for income investors [16].