Core Insights - The article discusses the importance of preparing for retirement and highlights the best energy stocks for retirement portfolios, emphasizing the need for thoughtful investment strategies to ensure financial stability during retirement [2][4][6]. Retirement Preparedness - A study from Vanguard indicates that only 40% of workers aged 61 to 65 are financially aligned with their retirement goals, suggesting a significant portion may face income shortfalls [2][3]. - The median individual in this age group is projected to have a yearly income gap of about $9,000, which is approximately 24% below the required amount to maintain their lifestyle in retirement [3]. Investment Strategies - Dividend-paying stocks are favored by many investors for retirement portfolios due to their historical performance and lower volatility compared to the broader market [4][5]. - The energy sector is noted for its strong commitment to dividends, with an annual underlying dividend growth rate of 3% reported by Janus Henderson, and total dividends paid in 2024 reaching $166.2 billion, up from $118.9 billion in 2018 [5]. Best Energy Stocks - The article outlines a methodology for selecting the best energy stocks, focusing on companies with consistent dividend growth over the past decade, an annual dividend yield exceeding 3%, and stock gains of at least 20% over the same period [8]. - The selection process also considers the number of hedge funds invested in these stocks, as following top hedge fund picks has historically led to market outperformance [9]. Company Highlights - **Enterprise Products Partners L.P. (NYSE:EPD)**: Recognized as a leading North American midstream energy service provider, it has 26 hedge fund holders. Recent analyst updates include a price target increase from $33 to $34 by Morgan Stanley, while JPMorgan downgraded its rating from 'Overweight' to 'Neutral' [10][11][12]. - **Enbridge Inc. (NYSE:ENB)**: This midstream energy operator has 27 hedge fund holders and recently increased its quarterly dividend by 2.9% to C$0.97 per share, marking 31 consecutive years of dividend growth. The company forecasts a distributable cash flow of C$5.70 – C$6.10 per share for FY 2026, reflecting a 4% increase from previous guidance [13][14][15][16][17].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Delek Logistics Partners reported approximately $136 million in quarterly adjusted EBITDA, an increase from $107 million in the same period last year [3][10] - The full-year EBITDA midpoint guidance has been raised to the upper end of the range, now expected between $500 million and $520 million [3][12] - Distributable cash flow, as adjusted, totaled $74 million, with a DCF coverage ratio of approximately 1.24 times [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - For the gathering and processing segment, adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $83 million compared to $55 million in the third quarter of 2024, primarily due to the acquisition of H2O and Gravity [10] - Wholesale marketing and terminaling adjusted EBITDA was $21 million, down from $25 million in the prior year, mainly due to last summer's amend and extend agreements [10] - Storage and transportation adjusted EBITDA remained stable at $19 million compared to the same quarter last year [11] - Investments in the pipeline joint venture segment contributed $22 million this quarter, up from $16 million in the third quarter of 2024 [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted strong operations in crude and water gathering segments, with record volumes for DDG [4][7] - The competitive position in both Midland and Delaware Basins is increasing due to two water acquisitions and increasing dedication [4] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to become a strong, independent, full-suite midstream service provider, focusing on prudent management of leverage and coverage while seizing growth opportunities [4][5] - The commissioning of the new Libby 2 plant is a key initiative, enhancing the company's capabilities in acid gas injection and sour gas handling [3][6] - The company plans to optimize synergies and realize associated EBITDA uplift from recent acquisitions [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the earnings trajectory and the ability to fill the Libby 2 plant to capacity, indicating a need for earlier expansion due to market demand for sour gas solutions [18] - The company remains focused on achieving long-term leverage and coverage targets while maintaining a strong financial position with approximately $1 billion of availability on credit facilities [9] Other Important Information - The Board of Directors approved a 51st consecutive increase in the quarterly distribution to $1.12 per unit [4] - Capital expenditures for the third quarter were approximately $50 million, with $44 million allocated to growth capex [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: Inquiry about producers' increasing activity on acreage ahead of Libby 2 - Management noted that while crude and water operations are strong, there has not been a material change in drilling activity, but synergies between different streams are increasing [15][17] Question: Follow-up on CapEx and 2026 trends - Management indicated that planning for next year is ongoing and further guidance will be provided in the next earnings call [20] Question: Discussion on equity income line performance - The strong performance was attributed to the Wink to Webster joint venture, with expectations for sustainable run rates going forward [27] Question: Inquiry about the water landscape and competition - Management highlighted the favorable timing of past acquisitions and the challenges in permitting new facilities, positioning the company well in the market [29] Question: Clarification on Libby 3 expansion timing and AGI disposal - Management confirmed confidence in handling sour gas and indicated that planning for expansion will be detailed in future communications [31]