Excelerate Energy(EE) ZACKS·2024-12-30 14:30Core Insights - Current volatility in the energy sector may present strategic entry points for long-term investment opportunities as the landscape evolves [1][4] - The energy sector has faced struggles, but periods of underperformance can create appealing opportunities for growth-focused investors, especially with economic momentum and easing inflation [3][4] Company Summaries - Gulfport Energy: A natural gas-focused exploration and production company that has emerged from bankruptcy with a stronger balance sheet. The company prioritizes Utica development to drive free cash flow, reduce debt, and align with ESG-focused investor expectations. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Gulfport Energy's 2024 earnings per share indicates a significant year-over-year growth of 108.1% [5][10] - Excelerate Energy: Specializes in LNG infrastructure and services, representing 20% of the global FSRU fleet and 5% of global regasification capacity. The company aims to expand into LNG-to-power generation and gas distribution, with a Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2024 earnings per share indicating a year-over-year growth of 10.8% [11][18] - Flotek Industries: A leading chemistry and data technology company that enhances operational efficiency and environmental performance for hydrocarbon producers and renewable energy sectors. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Flotek Industries' 2024 earnings per share indicates a remarkable year-over-year growth of 125% [12][19] Market Trends - Despite challenges such as oversupply and demand fluctuations in oil, economic recovery in Asia offers optimism for gradual improvement in the energy sector. Natural gas prices are also rising due to forecasts of colder weather, which may boost demand [8][14] - The S&P 500 has surged by 28% this year, while the Oil/Energy sector has only delivered 4% total returns, reflecting global economic uncertainties [14]