Best Energy Stocks this April 2026

Marathon Petroleum (MPC), the largest oil refiner in the U.S., is gaining attention for its strong refining margins and has been recognized as a top pick by Goldman Sachs. With an impressive 1-year return of 68.57% and a generous dividend yield of 1.91%, MPC is positioned as a compelling choice for investors seeking growth. Analysts maintain a consensus rating of Buy, with a median 12-month price target of $200, reflecting optimism about the company's future prospects.

Marathon Petroleum (MPC) has a consensus rating of Buy from 13 analysts, with 15% recommending Strong Buy, 46% Buy, and 38% Hold.

Two analysts have recently increased their earnings estimates for fiscal 2026, raising the Zacks Consensus Estimate to $14.45 per share, with an average earnings surprise of +32.7%.

The Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) analysis indicates that Marathon Petroleum is undervalued by 61.5%.

Valero Energy (VLO) stands out as a top-rated refiner, showcasing impressive early 2026 performance with a remarkable 86.77% return over the past year. With a solid dividend yield of 2.36% and a strong growth forecast—22.2% year-over-year earnings growth—investors are drawn to its reliable income potential and robust financial health. Notably, analysts maintain a bullish outlook, with a median 12-month price target of $194.50 and zero bearish ratings among the 14 analysts covering the stock.

VLO has a Growth Style Score of A, with projected earnings growth of 22.2% for the current fiscal year. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for fiscal 2026 has increased to $12.97 per share.

Wall Street has a Buy consensus on Valero Energy (VLO), with 57.1% of analysts bullish and none bearish among the 14 analysts covering the stock.

Devon Energy (DVN) stands out as one of America's largest independent oil and gas producers, showcasing strong upside potential through April 2026. With a solid 1-year return of 40.54% and a robust 5-year return of 137.21%, it continues to attract attention. Analysts maintain a positive outlook, setting a median 12-month price target of $50.00, reflecting confidence in this financially healthy company.

Analysts have set an average price target of $51.88 for Devon Energy (DVN), with estimates ranging from $41.00 to $67.00, indicating a potential increase of 6.33% from its last closing price of $48.79.

EQT Corporation stands out as a top-rated natural gas producer, boasting an impressive projected EPS growth of 49.14% and sales growth of 13%. With a solid 1-year return of 29.11% and a remarkable 5-year return of 250.54%, it is recognized among the best energy stocks. Analysts maintain a positive outlook, setting a median 12-month price target of $44.00, with most recommending a "Buy" or "Overweight" rating.

EQT is expected to earn $4.46 per share for the fiscal year ending December 2026, with analysts raising their estimates by 4.9% over the past three months.

EQT reported revenue of $2.09 billion for the quarter, slightly below analyst estimates of $2.13 billion, but its revenue increased by 24.8% year-over-year, with a net margin of 23.59%.

The largest shareholders of EQT include Vanguard Group, BlackRock, State Street, Wellington Management, Morgan Stanley, JPMorgan Chase, Blackstone Group, Capital International Investors, Geode Capital Management, and Capital Research Global Investors.