Gas Prices Spiking? The Energy Dividend Stocks I’d Hold Through Volatility

Are energy stocks a smart investment to offset gas price volatility? Discover two dividend stocks offering steady returns despite market ups and downs.

| More on:
Key Points
  • Look for energy dividend stocks with a strong history of consistent payouts, resilient through market cycles.
  • Ensure companies have strong cash flow and manageable debt to maintain dividends even in volatile times.
  • Choose companies with clear growth plans and diverse projects to ensure future earnings and competitive advantage.

Gas prices. These have constantly been an issue when it comes to our daily lives. The worst part? It’s almost impossible to budget when the price surges up and down. Yet there is a way to offset some of those costs, and that’s through investing.

But hold on, because when it comes to dividend stocks, energy stocks can be some of the best. Yet some of these energy stocks are volatile during these times of fluctuating gas prices, whereas others are not. That’s why today we’re going to look at what to consider when choosing energy dividend stocks, and two that fit the bill.

Hourglass and stock price chart

Source: Getty Images

What to watch

If you’re looking at energy stocks that can support a dividend long term, there are a few items to consider. First, look for dividend stocks with a strong dividend history, maintaining yields through every type of market cycle. High yields can look enticing, but the company needs to sustain those payouts.

Then there’s cash flow. Investors will want to evaluate the dividend stock’s ability to generate stable operating cash flow, which supports those dividend payments even in volatile markets. Strong cash flow means strong financial health, thus the ability to maintain dividends. This would mean looking at debt as well. Companies with manageable debt levels and strong balance sheets are better positioned to weather the rough ride and keep dividends going. A low debt-to-equity ratio can be your best friend.

Finally, there’s future growth. Efficient operations and effective cost management not only buffer volatile prices but also allow companies to expand. So consider companies that have a clear growth strategy with ongoing projects to contribute to future earnings, whether through strategic acquisitions or infrastructure upgrades. And ideally? Those growth projects are diverse, operating in different areas and segments to maintain a competitive edge.

Two to consider

With all this in mind, let’s look at two options for investors on the TSX today, Cenovus Energy (TSX: CVE) and Gibson Energy (TSX: GEI). First, Cenovus, which offers a dividend yield of 3.4% – not the highest, but still appealing. Its focus remains on returning capital to shareholders through buybacks as well as dividends. And the dividend stock remains strong, with $2.4 billion generated from operations, allowing room to reduce debt and return cash to shareholders. What’s more, the company is growing through the Narrows Lake and West White Rose offshore initiatives. These projects allow it to maintain operational efficiency, crucial during volatility.

As for Gibson, it holds a high 6.5% dividend yield at writing, which again is quite attractive for those seeking consistent income. It also has the completion of key projects underway, such as Gateway dredging, which has enhanced throughput and operational capacity. Therefore, Gibson is looking more stable than ever. Investors will want to keep an eye on debt, but this should normalize by 2026.

Bottom line

Both Cenovus and Gibson offer strong dividend stocks for those seeking long-term income amid gas price volatility. Cenovus offers a balanced approach for growth and income, with Gibson holding a higher yield. Investors should therefore consider each company and how each aligns with your investment strategy, especially during times of volatility.

Fool contributor Amy Legate-Wolfe has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Gibson Energy. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

More on Energy Stocks

oil pumps at sunset
Energy Stocks

Enbridge Stock: Should Investors Buy, Sell, or Hold Right Now?

Is Enbridge now oversold?

Read more »

oil pumps at sunset
Energy Stocks

Why Canadian Natural Resources Could Be a Huge Winner as Oil Prices Spike

CNQ stock offers rare leverage to rising oil prices, ultra low costs, and a 26-year dividend streak.

Read more »

A worker overlooks an oil refinery plant.
Energy Stocks

Crude Oil Is Soaring, and Here’s How Canadian Energy Investors Can Play it

Crude oil is back above US$100 per barrel, and these two top Canadian energy stocks could give investors a great…

Read more »

Oil industry worker works in oilfield
Energy Stocks

Oil Price Spike: Is it Too Late to Buy Enbridge Stock?

While higher oil prices create a positive backdrop for energy stocks, they aren't necessarily the main reason to buy Enbridge.

Read more »

oil pumps at sunset
Energy Stocks

Tenaz Energy Stock Is Up 1,463% in 3 Years on This One Growth Strategy

Tenaz Energy has earned a spot on the 2026 TSX30 list, driven by an impressive three-year return of 1,463%.

Read more »

senior man and woman stretch their legs on yoga mats outside
Energy Stocks

Retirees Love Dividends: Here’s the Number That Matters More Than Yield

A tempting 7% yield can vanish fast, so checking the payout ratio helps confirm a dividend is actually sustainable.

Read more »

golden sunset in crude oil refinery with pipeline system
Energy Stocks

Oil Just Topped $100 a Barrel: 2 Canadian Energy Stocks to Buy Before the Rally Runs Further

Here's why Canadian Natural Resources (CNQ) and another oil sands stock are top Canadian energy stocks poised for massive cash…

Read more »

some investments are riskier than others
Energy Stocks

2 Energy Stocks to Watch in the Strait of Hormuz Conflict

With Brent crude oil back above US$100 amid escalating Strait of Hormuz tensions, these two TSX energy stocks could deserve…

Read more »