NEW YORK: US energy shares are soaring as investors benefit from rising oil prices and a stronger-than-expected economy, while seeking to protect their portfolios from a feared resurgence of inflation.

       The S&P 500 energy sector is up about 17% in 2024, roughly doubling the broader index's year-to-date return. Its gains have accelerated in recent weeks, making it the S&P 500's best performing sector in the past month.