Energy Transfer operates in the most reliable segment of the energy sector, but how boring is this high yielder? The big draw with Energy Transfer (ET 0.52%) is likely to be the master limited partnership's (MLP's) huge 7.4% distribution yield. That's completely reasonable, noting that the S&P 500 index (^GSPC 0.32%) has a miserly yield of just 1.2% and the average energy stock's yield is just 3.3%. Before you jump aboard what looks like a boring stock, you'll want to know a little of the history backing th ...

The foundation underpinning NextEra Energy's business is the regulated utility operations it runs in the state of Florida. The Sunshine State has long seen its population grow as people look for better weather and low taxes (Florida does not impose a state income tax). Retirees are a major source of new residents, which is also a positive given the aging of the very large baby boom generation. No business can completely avoid the recession hit, but some are much better positioned to do so than others. A rec ...