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The Vanguard Energy ETF (VDE), a broad benchmark for the energy sector, has returned 93.61% over the past 12 months, more than quadrupling the S&P 500's total return of 23.88% over the same period, according to a Benzinga analysis by Ryan Peterson.
The gap underscores a sustained run for traditional energy producers that has drawn renewed investor attention to names including Exxon Mobil, Marathon Petroleum, Chevron Corp.
What Drives the Sector's Performance The energy sector spans companies involved in the production, exploration, refining and transportation of consumable fuels such as coal, oil and natural gas, as well as businesses that supply drilling equipment, oil rigs and related services.
The sector also includes a renewable wing — companies generating revenue from solar, wind and hydropower — though the outperformance cited in the Benzinga analysis reflects the broader VDE benchmark, which covers both categories.
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