12 Best ADR Stocks to Buy According to Hedge Funds

9. Shell plc (NYSE:SHEL)

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 54

Shell plc (NYSE:SHEL) is a UK-based global energy company engaged in the exploration, production, refining, and marketing of oil and natural gas, as well as in the development of low-carbon energy solutions. Its operations span upstream (oil and gas extraction), integrated gas (including liquefied natural gas), and downstream segments (refining, chemicals, and fuels marketing). SHEL also invests in renewable energy, hydrogen, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure as part of its energy transition strategy. The company ranked eleventh on our recent list of 11 Best Crude Oil Stocks To Buy Right Now.

In 2024, Shell plc (NYSE:SHEL) reported one of its strongest financial years to date, posting $54.7 billion in cash flow from operations (the second highest in its history) and adjusted earnings of $23.7 billion. The company outperformed its cost-saving goals by cutting $3.1 billion in structural expenses, exceeding its $2–3 billion target range a full year ahead of schedule. Capital spending remained disciplined, ending below the lower bound of guidance. SHEL also prioritized shareholder returns, distributing over $22.5 billion (mainly through share buybacks) and positioning itself at the top end of its commitment to return 30–40% of cash flow from operations.

Operationally, Shell plc (NYSE:SHEL) made notable strides. Major upstream developments such as Whale and Mero-3 commenced production, significantly boosting output and pushing SHEL beyond 80% of its goal to bring over 500,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day online by 2025. In its integrated gas segment, the company expanded its portfolio through the acquisition of Pavilion Energy and participation in the Ruwais LNG project in Abu Dhabi. The downstream business also advanced rapidly, installing over 70,000 public EV charging points globally – a milestone achieved a year earlier than anticipated. Looking forward, management announced a 4% dividend increase and a new $3.5 billion share buyback plan, continuing a trend of robust shareholder returns for the 13th consecutive quarter.