3 Dividend Stocks Defying the Market Downturn Amid the Iran Conflict

While the S&P 500 has fallen nearly 5% since the start of the U.S.-Iran conflict, three dividend-paying stocks are bucking the trend: Crescent Energy, Viper Energy Partners, and Unum Group. Crescent Energy benefits from its Permian Basin operations and recent analyst upgrades. Viper Energy's royalty model shields it from operational risks while offering a 3.3% dividend yield. Unum Group, a life and disability insurer, stands out as a non-energy play with expected 8%-12% EPS growth and 30% upside potential.

04/03/2026, 10:32 AM • Investing

Vital Energy Stockholders Approve Merger with Crescent Energy

Vital Energy stockholders have approved a merger with Crescent Energy, with shareholders set to receive 1.9062 shares of Crescent's Class A common stock for each Vital Energy share. The merger is expected to close on December 15, 2025, creating a larger, financially robust energy operator.

12/12/2025, 4:20 PM • Benzinga

3 Mid-Cap Energy Firms Analysts See Moving Up to the Big Leagues

Analysts highlight three mid-cap energy companies with potential for significant growth amid geopolitical conflicts, renewable energy advances, and strategic operational approaches in the energy sector.

09/12/2025, 12:34 PM • Investing

Crescent Energy To Absorb Vital In $3.1 Billion All-Stock Transaction

Crescent Energy will acquire Vital Energy in an all-stock merger valued at $3.1 billion, creating one of the largest U.S. independent oil and gas producers. The deal offers Vital shareholders a 15% premium and is expected to close by year-end 2025, with projected annual savings of $90-100 million.

08/25/2025, 11:12 AM • Benzinga