15 Low Profile Dividend Champions to Buy

8. National Fuel Gas Company (NYSE:NFG)

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 29

National Fuel Gas Company (NYSE:NFG) is an American diversified energy company that is engaged in the exploration and development of natural gas and oil reserves. The company generates about half of its earnings from its exploration and production operations, while the rest comes from its gathering, storage, and utility businesses. The company has been steadily ramping up production and expects low-to-mid single-digit output growth over the next three years. Its stock has performed well, climbing by nearly 29% since the beginning of 2025.

In the first quarter of fiscal 2025, National Fuel Gas Company (NYSE:NFG) reported revenue of $549.4 million, marking a 4.59% increase compared to the same period a year ago. Net income in the Pipeline & Storage segment rose by $8.4 million (35%) year-over-year, primarily due to the Supply Corporation rate case settlement, which led to higher rates starting February 1, 2024. The Utility segment also delivered solid results, with net income up $5.9 million (22%) thanks to a three-year rate settlement in its New York service area.

With natural gas prices on the rise and improving performance across all segments, National Fuel Gas Company (NYSE:NFG) has raised its fiscal 2025 adjusted EPS forecast to a range of $6.50 to $7.00. NFG also maintained a strong financial position, generating over $220 million in operating cash flow during the quarter. The company boasts a 54-year streak of dividend growth and has paid uninterrupted dividends for 121 years. Its quarterly dividend comes in at $0.515 per share for a dividend yield of 2.59%, as of April 17.