RE:Who would prefer that VET pay the DIV monthly? VET was originally set up as a company that grew by acquisitions and development. They were very successful at that . Then the government of the time created Energy trusts that were similar in nature to REIT 's . That structure has long been broken due to a sudden reversion in taxation policy.
VET tried to hold on to the model nonetheless, until it broke due to Covid. Management was very wise to cut the dividend, otherwise there would be nothing to talk about now. I believe that with a change in management, and more importantly a change in environment that acquisitions and/or buybacks are the best strategy. Cash dividends are really a mugs game, on the second the stock goes ex-dividend the share price will go down by the same amount. A constant dividend stream may signify stability to some. But not in this industry. If you want a constant dividend stream then check out utilities or some banks.
Even the energy royalty trusts cannot guarantee dividend stability