American Electric Power Bolsa (NASDAQ: AEP)

Últimas noticias sobre American Electric Power (NASDAQ:AEP) Bolsa

American Electric Power

American Electric Power is one of the largest regulated utilities in the United States, providing electricity generation, transmission, and distribution to more than 5 million customers in 11 states. About 42% of AEP's of capacity is coal, with the remainder from a mix of natural gas (27%), renewable energy and hydro (21%), nuclear (8%), and demand response (2%). Vertically integrated utilities, transmission and distribution, and generation and marketing support earnings.

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Descubre las acciones más sobrecompradas en el sector de servicios públicos. Southern Co, Exelon y AEP destacan por su alto RSI.

Acciones sobrecompradas en servicios públicos: Southern, Exelon y AEP en la mira

American Electric Power Company, Inc. - Common Stock

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As AI develops, a shift in expectations for electricity demand is becoming more evident. The emergence of Chinese artificial intelligence company DeepSeek has led to uncertainty about future electricity consumption, impacting <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/utilities">utility and power stocks. </a>
Investors in the traditional power and utilities sector are facing uncertainty after riding last year's wave of soaring demand projections. The rapid expansion of energy-intensive data centers—critical to AI and other tech innovations—had fueled a surge in power stocks. However, the question mark on this forecast has brought <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs">power-focused ETFs</a> back into the limelight for the wrong reasons. Although experts believe this is most likely a temporary panic, here are 3 ETFs that may be less sensitive to short-term chaos:
Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLU#NYSE">XLU</a>) 
XLU provides exposure to major U.S. utility companies, including American Electric Power Co. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEP#NASDAQ">AEP</a>) and Southern Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SO#NYSE">SO</a>). The ETF is a popular choice for investors seeking stable returns and dividend income from regulated utilities, which are less sensitive to short-term market disruptions. The expense ratio is 0.09%.
Invesco S&amp;P 500 Equal Weight Utilities ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RSPU#NYSE">RSPU</a>)
Traditional utility ETFs are market-cap weighted. On the contrary, this ETF assigns equal weight to its holdings, which allows the investor to spread out risks. It includes companies involved in electricity production, transmission, and renewable energy, making it a potential hedge against volatility in the energy sector. The expense ratio is 0.4%.
First Trust NASDAQ Clean Edge Smart Grid Infrastructure Index Fund (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GRID#NASDAQ">GRID</a>)
GRID focuses on companies engaged in smart grid technology, electrification infrastructure, and power transmission. As the U.S. accelerates its shift to renewable energy, investments in smart grids and electricity storage could benefit from long-term demand growth, regardless of AI-related fluctuations.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/sector-etfs/25/01/43350500/deepseek-shakes-up-ai-stocks-3-healthcare-tech-etfs-offer-stability-innovation">DeepSeek Shakes Up AI Stocks: 3 Healthcare Tech ETFs Offer Stability, Innovation</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The AI Revolution and Its Impact on Power Demand</h3>
The DeepSeek issue challenges long-standing projections about electricity demand driven by AI data centers. DeepSeek&#8217;s AI model, reportedly uses &#8220;10 to 40 times less energy&#8221; than similar U.S. models, according to a <a href="https://www.eenews.net/articles/game-changer-what-deepseek-ai-means-for-electricity/">report </a>by E&amp;E News. 
Utilities and natural gas companies, which had been soaring on expectations of rising AI-driven electricity demand, suffered steep losses. According to Reuters, independent power provider Constellation Energy (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CEG#NASDAQ">CEG</a>) plunged by about 20%, Vistra (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VST#NYSE">VST</a>) dropped 30%, and Talen Energy (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TLN#NASDAQ">TLN</a>) fell 22% after news of DeepSeek&#8217;s advancements hit.
While some experts believe this could reset expectations for power growth, others argue that broader electrification trends, including U.S. manufacturing expansion and cryptocurrency mining, will keep electricity demand high. 
&#8220;Overall electricity demand is still going to surge because other major drivers — particularly U.S. manufacturing and cryptocurrency — are not going to be affected by DeepSeek,&#8221; said Betsy Soehren Jones, managing director at West Monroe, as reported by E&amp;E News.
DeepSeek&#8217;s accomplishment could even cast doubt on nuclear power demand, which tech companies see as a key source of clean energy for AI development. Investors have expected high premiums for nuclear power, over $100/MWh, but new efficiency gains may change that, Jefferies said in a client note, <a href="https://www.argusmedia.com/en/news-and-insights/latest-market-news/2652323-deepseek-undermines-ai-power-demand-forecasts">according </a>to Argus Media. 
Lower AI data center power demand could also weaken support for next-generation small modular reactors (SMRs), backed by companies like Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) and Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>).
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/25/01/43267966/deepseeks-low-cost-model-reshapes-ai-landscape-experts-predict-shift-to-application-layer">DeepSeek&#8217;s Low-Cost Model Reshapes AI Landscape: Experts Predict Shift To &#8216;Application Layer&#8217;</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What BofA Says About the Power and Utility Sector</h3>
A recent Bank of America (BofA) report suggests that the power and utility sector remains resilient despite the short-term market reaction to DeepSeek&#8217;s AI model. The report maintains a Buy rating on Constellation Energy with a revised price target of $366 and a Neutral rating on Vistra with a target of $183.
BofA analysts see the sell-off as an overreaction and expect data center demand to stay strong once the turbulence subsides.
The report describes DeepSeek as "more evolutionary than revolutionary" and that AI-driven data centers will continue to drive power consumption.
Additionally, BofA notes that supply and demand pressures in the energy market remain tight due to industrial expansion and electrification. The need for stable energy sources like nuclear power remains essential.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Will DeepSeek Really Change The Power Scenario?</h3>
While DeepSeek's AI model has introduced uncertainty in the short term, some analysts believe the sell-off in power stocks may be &#8220;short-sighted and short-lived,&#8221; as energy economist Ed Hirs noted, per a Reuters report. Even with more efficient AI models, demand for electricity is likely to rise due to continued digitalization and electrification.
All said, despite the sharp reaction in the market, broader trends in electrification and technology-driven growth suggest that electricity consumption will keep rising.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/01/43315374/ai-etfs-in-focus-as-alibaba-challenges-deepseek-with-new-model">AI ETFs In Focus As Alibaba Challenges DeepSeek With New Model</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Sundry Photography/ Shutterstock.com

Sector ETFs

ETFs

GOOG

GOOGL

First Trust Nasdaq Clean Edge Smart Grid Infrastructure Index Fund

GRID

MSFT

Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Utilities ETF

RSPU

3 ETFs To Navigate Utility Stock Volatility As DeepSeek Challenges Power Demand Forecasts

American Electric Power's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEP#NYSE">AEP</a>) short percent of float has fallen 5.29% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 9.53 million shares sold short, which is 1.79% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 2.69 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock/">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>American Electric Power Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1738169116_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for American Electric Power has declined since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to rise in the near-term but traders should be aware that less shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing American Electric Power's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, American Electric Power's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 2.16%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Short Sellers

Short Ideas

Looking Into American Electric Power's Recent Short Interest

As of Jan. 28, 2025, three stocks in the utilities sector could be flashing a real warning to investors who value momentum as a key criteria in their trading decisions.
The RSI is a momentum indicator, which compares a stock&#8217;s strength on days when prices go up to its strength on days when prices go down. When compared to a stock&#8217;s price action, it can give traders a better sense of how a stock may perform in the short term. An asset is typically considered overbought when the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/rsi">RSI is above 70</a>, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>. 
Here's the latest list of major overbought players in this sector.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Southern Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SO#NYSE">SO</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>Southern Company will release its earnings for the fourth quarter of 2024 on Thursday, Feb. 20. The company's stock surged around 5% over the past month and has a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SO">52-week high of $94.45</a>.</li>
<li>RSI Value: 70.4&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
<li>SO Price Action: Shares of Southern gained 3.6% to close at $86.50 on Monday.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Exelon Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EXC#NASDAQ">EXC</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>On Jan. 21, Evercore ISI Group analyst Durgesh Chopra upgraded Exelon from In-Line to Outperform and raised the price target from $43 to $44.. The company's stock gained around 8% over the past month and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/EXC">has a 52-week high</a> of $41.18.</li>
<li>RSI Value: 73.6</li>
<li>EXC Price Action: Shares of Exelon gained 3.4% to close at $40.70 on Monday.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">American Electric Power Company Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEP#NASDAQ">AEP</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>On Jan. 9, the company announced that a 50/50 strategic partnership between KKR &amp; Co Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KKR#NYSE">KKR</a>) and PSP Investments has agreed to acquire 19.9% non-controlling equity interest in its Ohio and Indiana &amp; Michigan Transmission Companies (Transcos) for $2.82 billion.. The company's stock gained around 11% over the past month and has a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AEP">52-week high</a> of $105.17.</li>
<li>RSI Value: 84.5</li>
<li>AEP Price Action: Shares of American Electric Power gained 4.5% to close at $102.63 on Monday.</li>
</ul>
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/01/43230206/jim-cramer-is-worried-about-this-consumer-cyclical-stock-7-yield-something-may-be-wrong-here">Jim Cramer Is Worried About This Consumer Cyclical Stock: 7% Yield? &#8216;Something May Be Wrong Here&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>

Top 3 Utilities Stocks You May Want To Dump In January

BofA Securities analyst Ross Fowler upgraded the shares of American Electric Power Company Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEP#NASDAQ">AEP</a>) from Underperform to Buy and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AEP/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">raised the price target from $98 to $104.</a>
The analyst upgraded the stock after the company announced the sale of a 19.9% minority stake in its transmission holding assets for $2.8 billion, along with the appointment of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/01/n42844381/aep-names-seasoned-energy-executive-trevor-mihalik-executive-vice-president-chief-financial-office" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trevor Mihalik as CFO</a>.
The analyst sees the asset sale as a strategic move to meet external equity needs and expect AEP to continue addressing the equity overhang in the short term.
The analyst forecasts a more manageable $2 billion in equity issuance for the second half of 2025, with only the internal dividend reinvestment plan (~$100 million annually) needed to achieve 6% &#8211; 8% EPS growth.
The company&#8217;s progress toward strengthening its balance sheet and potential for EPS growth in future years make AEP an attractive investment opportunity, said the analyst.
Last week, AEP announced an agreement with KKR and PSP Investments, under which AEP will sell a 19.9% minority stake in its I&amp;M and Ohio <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42910243/kkr-and-psp-secure-199-stake-in-american-electric-for-282b" rel="noreferrer noopener">transmission businesses for $2.82 billion</a>.
The analyst expects the proceeds to be primarily used to reduce debt in the short term, and the analyst lowered the equity needs forecast to $2 billion in the form of external issuance.
This leaves just $100 million of internal dividend reinvestment plans to meet equity requirements through the 2029 forecast period, noted the analyst.
Following the transaction, the analyst has revised the EPS outlook to $5.83 for 2025, $6.26 for 2026, $6.80 for 2027, and $7.33 for 2028.
This aligns with AEP&#8217;s guidance for an average EPS accretion of $0.11 &#8211; $0.12, with the most significant accretion occurring in 2027-2029.
The analyst values AEP using a sum-of-the-parts approach, leading to a slight discount compared to the industry average 2026 P/E multiple, based on 2026 EPS estimate of $6.26.
Price Action: AEP shares are trading higher by 1.20% at $94.63 on the last check Monday.
Photo by Ground Picture on Shutterstock.

Analyst Color

Equities

Upgrades

Price Target

Analyst Ratings

General

American Electric Power Is Attractive Going Forward, Analyst Double-Upgrades Stock

Top Wall Street analysts changed their outlook on these top names. For a complete view of all analyst rating changes, including upgrades, downgrades and initiations, please see our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">analyst ratings page</a>.
<ul>
<li>Needham analyst Bernie McTernan upgraded the rating for Maplebear Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CART#NASDAQ">CART</a>) from Hold to Buy and announced a $56 price target. Maplebear shares closed at $44.23 on Friday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CART/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Jefferies analyst John Colantuoni upgraded Etsy, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ETSY#NASDAQ">ETSY</a>) from Underperform to Hold and raised the price target from $45 to $55. Etsy shares closed at $52.57 on Friday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ETSY/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Evercore ISI Group analyst David Raso upgraded the rating for Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CAT#NYSE">CAT</a>) from Underperform to In-Line and announced a $365 price target. Caterpillar shares closed at $351.00 on Friday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CAT/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Morgan Stanley analyst Simeon Gutman upgraded RH (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RH#NYSE">RH</a>) from Equal-Weight to Overweight and increased the price target from $435 to $530. RH shares closed at $413.95 on Friday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/RH/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>B of A Securities analyst Julien Dumoulin-Smith upgraded the rating for American Electric Power Company, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEP#NASDAQ">AEP</a>) from Underperform to Buy and raised the price target from $98 to $104. American Electric Power shares closed at $93.51 on Friday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AEP/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
</ul>
Considering buying CAT stock? Here&#8217;s what analysts think: 
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="561" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/13091842/image-75-1024x561.png" alt="" class="wp-image-730589" style="width:632px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/13091842/image-75-1024x561.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/13091842/image-75-300x164.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/13091842/image-75-768x421.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/13091842/image-75.png 1150w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
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</ul>

CART

ETSY

This Caterpillar Analyst Is No Longer Bearish; Here Are Top 5 Upgrades For Monday

B of A Securities analyst Julien Dumoulin-Smith upgrades American Electric Power (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEP#NASDAQ">AEP</a>) from Underperform to Buy and raises the price target from $98 to $104.

B of A Securities Upgrades American Electric Power to Buy, Raises Price Target to $104

BMO Capital analyst James Thalacker maintains American Electric Power (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEP#NASDAQ">AEP</a>) with a Outperform and lowers the price target from $108 to $100.

BMO Capital Maintains Outperform on American Electric Power, Lowers Price Target to $100

American Electric Power Company Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEP#NASDAQ">AEP</a>) shares are trading higher in premarket Friday.
The company announced that a 50/50 strategic partnership between KKR &amp; Co Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KKR#NYSE">KKR</a>) and PSP Investments has agreed to acquire&nbsp;19.9%&nbsp;non-controlling equity interest in its Ohio&nbsp;and&nbsp;Indiana&nbsp;&amp; Michigan Transmission Companies <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42901587" rel="noreferrer noopener">(Transcos)&nbsp;for&nbsp;$2.82 billion.</a>
The deal is expected to boost AEP&#8217;s ability to finance its $54 billion capital investment plan over the next five years.
The partnership will also allow AEP to improve the reliability of its transmission infrastructure and strengthen its balance sheet, to meet growing customer demand in the Midwest.
The stake acquired represents roughly 5% of AEP&#8217;s overall transmission rate base. The capital raised through this transaction will fund key projects across transmission, distribution, and generation, helping AEP manage its equity financing requirements through 2029.
&#8220;Executing on our five-year capital plan is critical to meeting growing energy demand and bolstering reliability for our customers. Electricity demand is anticipated to grow significantly in AEP&#8217;s footprint by the end of the decade,&#8221; said&nbsp;Bill Fehrman,&#8221; said AEP President and CEO Bill Fehrman.
&#8220;KKR and PSP Investments are experienced investors in the utilities and energy space with a proven track record of successful infrastructure investments.&#8221;
The transaction is expected to be completed in the second half of 2025 and is said to immediately benefit AEP&#8217;s earnings.
The agreement requires approval from FERC and clearance from the Committee on Foreign Investment in&nbsp;the U.S.
Price Action: AEP shares are trading higher by 0.81% at $93.01 in premarket at the last check Friday.
Photo via Shutterstock.

Asset Sales

Movers

American Electric Power Sells 19.9% Stake In Two Transmission Assets For $2.82B: Details

Today, investment funds managed by KKR, a leading global investment firm, and the Public Sector Pension Investment Board ("PSP Investments"), one of Canada's largest pension investors, announced an agreement to acquire a 19.9% interest in American Electric Power's ("AEP") Ohio and Indiana &amp; Michigan transmission companies for $2.82 billion. Founded in 1906 and one of the largest electric utilities in the U.S., AEP has pioneered the country's energy system through the delivery of safe, reliable and affordable energy for millions of homes. The investment will support AEP's ability to meet increasing customer demand and enhance grid reliability. KKR and PSP Investments have formed a 50/50 strategic partnership to pursue the acquisition.

Reported Earlier, KKR and PSP Investments Acquire 19.9% Stake in AEP's Transmission Companies for $2.82B

Management

American Electric Power Appoints Trevor Mihalik As Executive VP & CFO, Effective Jan. 20; Mihalik To Succeed Chuck Zebula, Who Retires In March After Serving As Senior Advisor To The CEO

The most oversold stocks in the utilities sector presents an opportunity to buy into undervalued companies.
The RSI is a momentum indicator, which compares a stock&#8217;s strength on days when prices go up to its strength on days when prices go down. When compared to a stock&#8217;s price action, it can give traders a better sense of how a stock may perform in the short term. An asset is typically considered oversold when the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/rsi">RSI is below 30</a>, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Here's the latest list of major oversold players in this sector, having an RSI near or below 30.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">National Grid plc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NGG#NYSE">NGG</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>On Nov. 20, National Grid named Steve Smith as Chief Strategy and Regulation Officer. &#8220;It&#8217;s a privilege to be appointed to this role at the most exciting time for the energy sector in decades,&#8221; said Steve Smith &#8220;The strategy and regulation teams already deliver outstanding work to ensure National Grid is set up for success and that we continue to put our customers first. I am very much looking forward to continuing to build on this, as I take up the role on a permanent basis.&#8221; The company's stock fell around 6% over the past month and has a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/NGG">52-week low of $55.13</a>.</li>
<li>RSI Value: 24&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
<li>NGG Price Action: Shares of National Grid fell 0.3% to close at $58.86 on Tuesday.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro's real-time newsfeed alerted to <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent122624&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">latest NGG news</a>. </li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent122624&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="913" height="842" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/26084059/image-204.png" alt="" class="wp-image-707637" style="width:520px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/26084059/image-204.png 913w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/26084059/image-204-300x277.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/26084059/image-204-768x708.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 913px) 100vw, 913px" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">American Electric Power Company Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEP#NASDAQ">AEP</a>)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</h3>
<ul>
<li>On Dec. 12, JP Morgan analyst Jeremy Tonet downgraded American Electric Power from Overweight to Neutral and lowered the price target from $109 to $102. The company's stock fell around 7% over the past month and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AEP">has a 52-week low</a> of $75.22.</li>
<li>RSI Value: 29</li>
<li>AEP Price Action: Shares of American Electric Power fell 0.5% to close at $92.37 on Tuesday.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro&#8217;s charting tool helped identify the trend in <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent122624&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">AEP stock</a>. </li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent122624&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="921" height="847" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/26084230/image-205.png" alt="" class="wp-image-707638" style="width:585px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/26084230/image-205.png 921w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/26084230/image-205-300x276.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/26084230/image-205-768x706.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 921px) 100vw, 921px" /></a></figure>
NextEra Energy Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NEE#NYSE">NEE</a>)
<ul>
<li>On Dec. 12, Scotiabank analyst Andrew Weisel maintained NextEra Energy with a Sector Outperform and raised the price target from $92 to $96. The company's stock fell around 6% over the past month and has a 52-week <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/NEE">low of $53.95</a>.</li>
<li>RSI Value: 27</li>
<li>NEE Price Action: Shares of NextEra Energy gained 0.6% to close at $72.91 on Tuesday.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro&#8217;s signals feature notified of a potential <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent122624&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">breakout in NEE shares</a>. </li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent122624&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="872" height="837" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/26084658/image-206.png" alt="" class="wp-image-707645" style="width:674px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/26084658/image-206.png 872w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/26084658/image-206-300x288.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/26084658/image-206-768x737.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 872px) 100vw, 872px" /></a></figure>
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Long Ideas

Top 3 Utilities Stocks You'll Regret Missing In December

Scotiabank analyst Andrew Weisel downgrades American Electric Power (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEP#NASDAQ">AEP</a>) from Sector Outperform to Sector Perform and lowers the price target from $105 to $102.

Downgrades

Scotiabank Downgrades American Electric Power to Sector Perform, Lowers Price Target to $102

JP Morgan analyst Jeremy Tonet downgrades American Electric Power (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEP#NASDAQ">AEP</a>) from Overweight to Neutral and lowers the price target from $109 to $102.

JP Morgan Downgrades American Electric Power to Neutral, Lowers Price Target to $102

BMO Capital analyst James Thalacker maintains American Electric Power (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEP#NASDAQ">AEP</a>) with a Outperform and raises the price target from $104 to $108.

BMO Capital Maintains Outperform on American Electric Power, Raises Price Target to $108

Barclays analyst Nicholas Campanella maintains American Electric Power (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEP#NASDAQ">AEP</a>) with a Equal-Weight and lowers the price target from $100 to $99.

Barclays Maintains Equal-Weight on American Electric Power, Lowers Price Target to $99

Morgan Stanley analyst Stephen Byrd maintains American Electric Power (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEP#NASDAQ">AEP</a>) with a Overweight and lowers the price target from $109 to $104.

Morgan Stanley Maintains Overweight on American Electric Power, Lowers Price Target to $104

U.S. stocks traded lower toward the end of trading, with the Dow Jones index falling by more than 300 points on Friday.
The Dow traded down 0.78% to 43,410.32 while the NASDAQ fell 2.50% to 18,630.37. The S&amp;P 500 also fell, dropping, 1.51% to 5,859.61.
Check This Out: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42005109/top-4-utilities-stocks-that-may-keep-you-up-at-night-this-quarter">Top 4 Utilities Stocks That May Keep You Up At Night This Quarter</a>
Leading and Lagging Sectors Utilities shares rose by 1% on Friday.
In trading on Friday, information technology shares fell by 2.7%.
Top Headline
The total number of active U.S. oil rigs fell by one to 478 rigs this week, Baker Hughes Inc reported.
Equities Trading UP &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>The Arena Group Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AREN#NYSE">AREN</a>) shares shot up 181% to $1.63 after it announced its first ever profitable quarter.</li>
<li>Shares of Bloom Energy Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BE#NYSE">BE</a>) got a boost, surging 55% to $20.59 after the energy company became the latest to announce a major deal to power AI data centers. Bloom Energy announced Thursday evening that it has signed a supply agreement with American Electric Power Company, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEP#NASDAQ">AEP</a>) for up to 1 gigawatt (GW) of its products, the largest commercial procurement of fuel cells in the world to date.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Simpple Ltd. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPPL#NASDAQ">SPPL</a>) shares were also up, gaining 46% to $1.29 after the company announced a $400,000 contract to supply autonomous cleaning robots at Singapore&#8217;s International Airport Terminal.</li>
</ul>
Equities Trading DOWN
<ul>
<li>TFF Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TFFP#NASDAQ">TFFP</a>) shares dropped 77% to $0.37 after the company announced it will wind down its operations.</li>
<li>Shares of Eyenovia, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EYEN#NASDAQ">EYEN</a>) were down 70% to $0.10 after the company announced that its CHAPERONE trial is not meeting its primary endpoint, prompting the discontinuation of the study and a review of the full data set to evaluate next steps for the program.</li>
<li>Ryvyl Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RVYL#NASDAQ">RVYL</a>) was down, falling 26% to $1.26 after the company reported worse-than-expected third-quarter financial results and cut its FY24 sales guidance.</li>
</ul>
Commodities In commodity news, oil traded down 2.2% to $67.20 while gold traded down 0.1% at $2,572.20.
Silver traded down 0.5% to $30.425 on Friday, while copper fell 0.5% to $4.0690.
Euro zone
European shares closed mostly lower today. The eurozone's STOXX 600 fell 0.77%, Germany's DAX fell 0.27% and France's CAC 40 fell 0.58%. Spain's IBEX 35 Index gained 0.97%, while London's FTSE 100 fell 0.09%.
The annual inflation rate in Italy increased to 0.9% in October versus 0.7% in the prior month, while France&#8217;s annual inflation rate rose to 1.2% in October. The GDP in the UK grew by 1% year-over-year during the third quarter.
Asia Pacific Markets
Asian markets closed lower on Friday, with Japan's Nikkei 225 gaining 0.28%, Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index falling 0.05% and China's Shanghai Composite Index dipping 1.45%.
Hong Kong's economy expanded by 1.8% year-over-year in the third quarter compared to a 3.2% increase in the previous period. China&#8217;s retail sales rose by 4.8% year-over-year in October, while industrial production rose by 5.3% year-over-year in October.
Economics
<ul>
<li>The NY Empire State Manufacturing Index surged to 31.2 in November versus -11.9 in the previous month and topping market estimates of -0.7.</li>
<li>U.S. export prices increased by 0.8% in October, while import prices rose by 0.3% month-over-month in October.</li>
<li>U.S. retail sales rose 0.4% month-over-month in October compared to a revised 0.8% increase in September, and toping market estimates of 0.3%.</li>
<li>U.S. industrial production declined by 0.3% in October compared to a revised 0.5% declined in September.</li>
<li>The total number of active U.S. oil rigs fell by one to 478 rigs this week, Baker Hughes Inc reported.</li>
<li>U.S. business inventories rose 0.1% month-over-month in September compared to a 0.3% gain in August and versus market estimates of 0.2%.</li>
</ul>
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/price-target/24/11/42007351/wall-streets-most-accurate-analysts-spotlight-on-3-consumer-stocks-with-over-7-dividend-yields">Wall Street&#8217;s Most Accurate Analysts Spotlight On 3 Consumer Stocks With Over 7% Dividend Yields</a></li>
</ul>

Earnings

Eurozone

Commodities

Intraday Update

AREN

EYEN

RVYL

SPPL

TFFP

Crude Oil Dips Over 2%; Bloom Energy Shares Spike Higher

Here&#8217;s a look at the top five trending stocks <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/space/24/11/42013739/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-43">on Yahoo Finance.</a> 
Pfizer, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>): Shares of vaccine stocks are down after President-elect Donald Trump pointed to Robert Kennedy Jr. as potentially the next Health and Human Services secretary. Trump has said <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/11/41822473/trumps-potential-health-czar-robert-f-kennedy-jr-rattles-vaccine-stocks-shoot-first-reaction">he would let</a> Kennedy "go wild on health" and could &#8220;do pretty much what he wants&#8221; in his administration, while Kennedy has a record of spreading falsehoods about vaccines, according to The New York Times.
Applied Materials, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMAT#NASDAQ">AMAT</a>): Applied Materials shares are trading lower Friday following the company's fourth-quarter <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/11/41991276/applied-materials-shares-slip-despite-better-than-expected-q4-results">earnings release</a> after Thursday's closing bell. Multiple analyst firms have lowered price targets on the stock. 
Bloom Energy Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BE#NYSE">BE</a>): Bloom Energy shares are charging higher after the energy company <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/earnings-beats/24/11/42011327/why-bloom-energy-could-reach-revenues-of-18b-next-year-says-bullish-analyst">became the latest </a>to announce a major deal to power AI data centers. Bloom Energy announced Thursday evening that it has signed a supply agreement with American Electric Power Company, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEP#NASDAQ">AEP</a>) for up to 1 gigawatt (GW) of its products, the largest commercial procurement of fuel cells in the world to date.  
Palantir Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NYSE">PLTR</a>): Palantir shares are trading at record highs Friday after the company said <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42010539/whats-going-on-with-palantir-technologies-stock-today">it will transfer</a> its stock listing to the Nasdaq Global Select Market from the New York Stock Exchange. Palantir will begin trading as a Nasdaq-listed company on Nov. 26.
FuelCell Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FCEL#NASDAQ">FCEL</a>): FuelCell Energy shares are slipping Friday after<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/guidance/24/11/42011849/restructure-and-recharge-fuelcell-cuts-workforce-plans-to-reduce-operating-costs-by-15-in-2025"> the company said </a>it will slash its workforce by 17% and reduce spending across product development, overhead and other expenses. FuelCell Energy said it needs to reduce costs and focus on core technologies due to slower-than-anticipated clean energy investments.
Price Action: According to data from <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?gspk=YWRhbWVja2VydDUzMzY&amp;gsxid=zBMR4PKmcgBw">Benzinga Pro</a>:
<ul>
<li>Pfizer shares are down 4.59% at $24.83</li>
<li>Applied Materials shares are down 8.22% at $170.66</li>
<li>Bloom Energy shares are up 45.1% at $19.27</li>
<li>Palantir shares are up 7.54% at $63.65</li>
<li>FuelCell Energy shares are down 11.1% at $6.23 at last check on Friday. </li>
</ul>
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Image: Moondance from Pixabay

AMAT

FCEL

PLTR

Friday's Top 5 Trending Stocks: What's The Scoop On Palantir, Bloom Energy, Pfizer?

Bloom Energy Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BE#NYSE">BE</a>) announced a 1 GW fuel cell supply deal with American Electric Power Company Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEP#NASDAQ">AEP</a>), which sent its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/be">stock soaring in early trading on Friday</a>.
The deal is "proof of concept" that the company's product can power large-scale data centers, according to Piper Sandler.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/58933b2043eaaa0001698f48/kashy-harrison">Analyst Kashy Harrison</a> upgraded the rating from Neutral to Overweight while raising the price target from $10 to $20.
The Bloom Energy Thesis: The latest order could "open the door to future arrangements with other utilities," Harrison said in the upgrade note.
Check out <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">other analyst stock ratings</a>.
Due to previous failures, markets had been skeptical about Bloom Energy's ability to deliver power to large data centers, the analyst stated. The order from AEP "is literally 10x what we were expecting," he added.
"Due to AEP order, the 80 MW SK Eternix order, the minimum 125 MW SK Ecoplant commitment, and continued momentum with other domestic customers, we see a path to $1.8B of revenues next year," Harrison further wrote.
BE Price Action: Shares of Bloom Energy Industries had risen by 49.21% to $19.83 at the time of publication on Friday.
Read More: • <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/41853996/sony-posts-upbeat-earnings-joins-tesla-upstart-doximity-fortrea-axon-enterprise-and-other-big-stocks-moving-higher-on-friday">Sony Posts Upbeat Earnings, Joins Tesla, Upstart, Doximity, Fortrea, Axon Enterprise And Other Big Stocks Moving Higher On Friday</a>
Photo: Courtesy Bloom Energy

Earnings Beats

Reiteration

Why Bloom Energy Could Reach Revenues Of $1.8B Next Year, Says Bullish Analyst

This customer-focused effort is the largest utility fuel cell initiative in the country
COLUMBUS, Ohio, Nov. 14, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- American Electric Power (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEP#NASDAQ">AEP</a>) is offering large customers a custom solution to support their growing energy needs with fuel cell technology. AEP has an agreement in place to secure up to 1 gigawatt (GW) of Bloom Energy solid oxide fuel cells for data centers and other large energy users who need to quickly power their operations while the grid is built out to accommodate demand. This is the largest utility fuel cell technology initiative in the nation.
AEP expects commercial load to grow an average of 20% annually over the next three years, driven by data center development. The company is in the process of finalizing the first customer project agreements. Discussions are taking place with several other customers about using this technology to provide additional power to their sites while AEP makes the needed grid investments for the long term. All costs for the fuel cell projects will be covered by the large customers under a special contract.

Contracts

AEP Leveraging Fuel Cell Technology To Power Data Center Growth; AEP Has An Agreement In Place To Secure Up To 1 Gigawatt Of Bloom Energy Solid Oxide Fuel Cells For Data Centers And Other Large Energy Users Who Need To Quickly Power Their Operations While The Grid Is Built Out To Accommodate Demand; In The Process Of Finalizing The First Customer Project Agreements Where All Costs Will Be Covered By The Large Customers Under A Special Contract

Guggenheim upgraded American Electric (AEP) to Buy from Neutral with a price target of $101, up from $86. The firm, which shuffled ratings in the u...

American Electric upgraded to Buy from Neutral at Guggenheim

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Dividend Roundup: Texas Instruments, Clorox, NRG Energy, Valero Energy, and more

Driven by urbanization, high end-user demand, technological advancements, and digital innovation, the utilities market is poised for significant growth. Given the industry tailwinds, investing in quality utilities stocks Vistra (VST), PPL Corporation (PPL), and American Electric Power (AEP) could be wise. Read on... The utility industry is thriving with the growing demand across various end-use sectors like electronics and automotive, backed by the increasing adoption of advanced technologies. Segments like data centers and the emergence of new consumer industries are leading to the highest electricity consumption.
With the industry's promising prospects, it could be wise to invest in fundamentally sound utility stocks Vistra Corp. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/VST/">VST</a>), PPL Corporation (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/PPL/">PPL</a>), and American Electric Power Company, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/AEP/">AEP</a>) with unexpected growth stories.
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration <a href="https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=64264">Short-Term Energy Outlook</a>, after no or relatively little change over the past two decades, electricity consumption is expected to grow by 2% in the current year and in 2026. This consumption surge is mainly due to increased demand from new semiconductor and battery manufacturing factories and data centers.
This electricity demand is powerfully navigating the utility industry. The industry's bright prospects are driven by extensive electricity usage in a wide range of devices and equipment across multiple sectors like residential, automotive, corporate, and industrial processes. Furthermore, the growing adoption of advanced digital technologies will foster the sector's growth.
The utilities market is expected to reach around $9.21 trillion by 2029, exhibiting solid growth at a <a href="https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/report/utilities-global-market-report">CAGR of 6%</a>. The market demand is attributable to factors like the integration of renewable energy sources, better load management, global population growth, technological advancements, and faster economic growth.
Amid this, stocks of utility companies that are continuously working towards catering to the growing energy demand through sound strategies and tactics are well-positioned for robust growth. Given these encouraging trends, let's look at the fundamentals of the three best <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/utilities-domestic/">Utilities - Domestic</a> stocks, beginning with the third choice.
Stock #3: Vistra Corp. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/VST/">VST</a>)
VST is an integrated retail electricity and power generation company. The company operates in six segments: Retail; Texas; East; West; Sunset; and Asset Closure. The company retails electricity and natural gas to residential, commercial, and industrial customers.
As a strategic expansion, on September 18, 2024, VST executed definitive agreements with affiliates of Nuveen Asset Management, LLC, and Avenue Capital Management II, L.P., and acquired their combined 15% equity interest in Vistra Vision LLC, resulting in VST becoming the sole owner of its Vistra Vision subsidiary, including its zero-carbon nuclear, energy storage, and solar generation assets.
The acquisition marked a milestone in VST's evolution, simplifying its overall structure. With its integrated model, VST will serve its customers in a reliable, affordable, and sustainable manner.
On September 11, 2024, VST announced a new program for homeowners in partnership with Sunrun (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/RUN/">RUN</a>) to support grid reliability for Texans. The program will aggregate power stored in residential, solar-connected batteries, forming a virtual power plant to dispatch energy back to the grid as needed.
For the third quarter that ended September 30, 2024, VST reported operating revenues of $6.29 billion, up 53.9% year-over-year. The company's <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/o/operatingincome.asp">operating income</a> increased 210.3% from the previous year's quarter to $2.59 billion. Its net income came in at $1.84 billion, indicating a growth of 265.9% from the prior year quarter.
As per the guidance for fiscal 2024, the company's ongoing operations adjusted EBITDA, which is expected to range between $5 billion and $5.20 billion. Its ongoing operations adjusted FCFbG is likely to be between $2.65 billion and $2.85 billion.
The company also initiated 2025 guidance ranges, projecting ongoing operations adjusted EBITDA of $5.50 billion - $6.10 billion. It also expects ongoing operations adjusted FCFbG in the range of $3 billion to $3.60 billion.
Analysts expect VST's revenue for the fourth quarter (ended December 2024) to improve 26.3% year-over-year to $3.89 billion. For the fiscal year (ended December 2024), the company's revenue and EPS are expected to increase 16.5% and 97% from the prior year to $17.22 billion and $5.84, respectively.
VST's stock has gained 124.2% over the past six months and 330.2% over the past year to close the last trading session at $170.86.
VST's bright prospects are reflected in its <a href="https://stocknews.com/powr-ratings/">POWR Ratings</a>. The POWR Ratings are calculated by considering 118 different factors, each weighted to an optimal degree.
VST's stock has a B grade for Growth and Momentum. Within the <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/utilities-domestic/">Utilities - Domestic</a> industry, VST is ranked #32 of 58 stocks.
<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/VST/">Click here</a> to access additional ratings of VST (Stability, Value, Sentiment, and Quality).
Stock #2: PPL Corporation (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/PPL/">PPL</a>)
PPL is an energy company that emphasizes providing electricity and natural gas to approximately 3.6 million customers. The company operates through three segments: Kentucky Regulated; Pennsylvania Regulated; and Rhode Island Regulated.
On January 16, 2025, PPL's subsidiary Louisville Gas and Electric Company announced its first hyperscale data center electric customer in partnership with Poe Companies and PowerHouse Data Centers. The cutting-edge 400-megawatt data center campus will be located in Louisville. The groundbreaking project will be historic for Kentucky and contribute to its new economic development.
On September 12, 2024, PPL executed an agreement with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) for an award of up to $72 million to help fund a groundbreaking carbon dioxide (CO₂) capture research and development project at the company's natural gas combined-cycle generation facility in Louisville, Kentucky.
PPL's operating revenues for the third quarter that ended September 30, 2024, increased 1.1% year-over-year to $2.07 billion, while its operating income was $428 million. The company's net income and EPS were $214 million and $0.29 for the quarter, respectively.
In addition, PPL's cash and cash equivalents as of September 30, 2024, were $542 million, compared to $331 million as of December 31, 2023.
Street expects PPL's revenue for the fiscal year (ended December 2024) to increase 1.2% year-over-year to $8.41 billion. Likewise, the company's EPS for the same year is expected to grow 6.7% year-over-year to $1.71. Moreover, PPL has surpassed the consensus revenue estimates in all four trailing quarters.
PPL's shares have gained 15.8% over the past six months and 26.3% over the past year to close the last trading session at $33.25.
PPL's sound fundamentals are reflected in its POWR Ratings. The stock has a B grade for Growth and Momentum. Within the Utilities - Domestic industry, PPL is ranked #27 of 58 stocks.
In addition to the POWR Ratings we've stated above, we also have PPL ratings for Sentiment, Value, Stability, and Quality. Get all PPL ratings <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/PPL/">here</a>.
Stock #1: American Electric Power Company, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/AEP/">AEP</a>)
AEP operates as an electric public utility holding company engaged in generating, transmitting, and distributing electricity for sale to retail and wholesale customers. It operates in Vertically Integrated Utilities; Transmission and Distribution Utilities; AEP Transmission Holdco; and Generation &amp; Marketing segments.
On December 18, 2024, AEP's subsidiary Southwestern Electric Power Co. (SWEPCO) announced various ongoing developments in several new generation projects pending regulatory approval. The company's initiatives are designed to enhance its diverse energy portfolio to address the growing capacity demands of customers in a cost-effective manner.
SWEPCO's new projects include the 450-MW Hallsville Natural Gas Plant and the 1,053-MW Welsh Natural Gas Conversion Project. It also has multiple renewable projects under construction. The company's endeavors will provide a reliable energy supply to customers and cater to their evolving needs.
On November 14, AEP introduced its custom solution to support the growing energy needs with fuel cell technology for their large customers. AEP's agreement in place will allow it to secure up to 1 gigawatt (GW) of Bloom Energy solid oxide fuel cells for data centers and other large energy users, making this the largest utility fuel cell technology initiative in the nation.
The company aims to invest $54 billion from 2025 through 2029 to enhance service for customers and support the growing energy needs of our communities. Such strong efforts will contribute to its ongoing growth and expansion.
During the third quarter that ended September 30, 2024, AEP's total revenues increased 1.5% year-over-year to $5.42 billion, and its operating income came in at $1.35 billion for the same period. The company's non-GAAP operating earnings stood at $985.40 million and $1.85 per share, up 6.7% and 4.5% over the prior year's quarter, respectively.
Further, the company expects its operating earnings to range from $5.58 to $5.68 per share in 2024.
Analysts expect AEP's revenue and EPS for the first quarter (ending March 2025) to increase 4% and 12.5% year-over-year to $5.20 billion and $1.43, respectively. Further, the company has topped consensus EPS estimates in three of the trailing four quarters.
Shares of AEP have surged 5.1% over the past month and 22% over the past year to close the last trading session at $97.25.
AEP's POWR Ratings reflect this robust outlook. AEP has a B grade for Growth, Stability, and Momentum. The stock is ranked #8 among the 58 stocks in the Utilities - Domestic industry.
<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/AEP/">Click here</a> to access additional AEP ratings for Sentiment, Value, and Quality.
What To Do Next?
Get your hands on this special report with 3 low priced companies with tremendous upside potential even in today's volatile markets:
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VST shares were trading at $170.86 per share on Monday afternoon, down $3.14 (-1.80%). Year-to-date, VST has gained 23.93%, versus a 1.96% rise in the benchmark S&amp;P 500 index during the same period.
<hr><div style="clear:both;"></div> <h2>About the Author: Rjkumari Saxena</h2> <img src='https:/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Rajkumari-Saxena_Image-1.jpeg' style="float:left; padding:5px;width:125px;">Rajkumari started her career as a writer but gradually shifted her focus to financial journalism, leveraging her educational background in Commerce. Fascinated by the interplay of business and economic shifts in equities, she aspires to evolve as an analyst. With a knack for simplifying complex financial concepts, her mission is to empower investors with insights that lead to profitable decisions.<a href="https://stocknews.com/authors/?author=rajkumari-saxena">More...</a>The post <a href=https://stocknews.com/news/vst-aep-ppl-run-3-utility-stocks-with-unexpected-growth-stories/>3 Utility Stocks With Unexpected Growth Stories</a> appeared first on <a href=https://stocknews.com/>StockNews.com</a>

3 Utility Stocks With Unexpected Growth Stories

The utility industry's strong growth is driven by the rising demand for more reliable and efficient utility services. Amid this backdrop, it could be wise to count on high-dividend utility stocks ONEOK (OKE), American Electric Power (AEP), and UGI Corp (UGI) for stable income. Continue reading... The utility industry is evolving rapidly, driven by clean energy adoption, grid modernization, and digital innovation, amid regulatory and consumer demand for sustainability.
Amid such conducive trends, investors could consider looking into fundamentally sound utility stocks, ONEOK, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/OKE/">OKE</a>), American Electric Power Company, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/AEP/">AEP</a>), and UGI Corporation (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/UGI/">UGI</a>), with high dividends.
Driven by worldwide population growth, urbanization, and the adoption of efficient technologies, global electricity demand is on a rapid surge. Further, the global push towards decarbonization and green revolution significantly contributes to the market dynamics.
Total revenue in the utilities market is expected to grow at a <a href="https://statista.com/outlook/amo/app/utilities/united-states">CAGR of 7.9%</a> by 2029. Moreover, the <a href="https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/energy-analytics-utility-market-993.html">increasing investment in smart grid infrastructure</a> using cutting-edge technologies and growing digital transformation with the adoption of various digital technologies are expected to provide opportunities for the energy and utilities analytics market.
Additionally, utilities are considered dividend stalwarts with a steady demand due to the nature of the products they offer. Considering these factors, let's take a look at the fundamentals of the three <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/utilities-domestic/">Utilities - Domestic</a> stocks, beginning with the third one.
Stock #3: ONEOK, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/OKE/">OKE</a>)
OKE engages in gathering, processing, fractionating, storing, transporting, and marketing natural gas and natural gas liquids (NGL) in the United States. It operates through four segments: Natural Gas Gathering and Processing, Natural Gas Liquids, Natural Gas Pipelines, and Refined Products and Crude. 
OKE's annual dividend is $3.96, which translates to a yield of 3.63% at the current share price. Its four-year average dividend yield is 5.83%. Moreover, the company's dividend payouts have increased at a CAGR of 2.3% over the past five years.
In terms of the trailing-12-month EBIT margin, OKE's 22.89% is 16.6% higher than the 19.63% industry average. Likewise, its 14.05% trailing-12-month net income margin is 22.7% higher than the 11.45% industry average. Furthermore, the stock's 16.87% trailing-12-month ROCE is 36.8% higher than the 12.33% industry average.
For the third quarter that ended September 30, 2024, OKE reported total revenues of $5.02 billion, up 19.9% year-over-year. Its net income came in at $693 million, or $1.18 per share, up 52.6% and 19.2% year-over-year, respectively. Also, as of September 30, 2024, the company's total <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/currentassets.asp">current assets</a> were $2.88 billion, compared to $3.11 billion as of December 31, 2023.
Analysts expect OKE's revenue for the fourth quarter ended December 2024 to increase 29.4% year-over-year to $6.77 billion. Its EPS is expected to grow 26.7% over-year-year to $1.49.
Shares of OKE have gained 40.3% over the past nine months to close the last trading session at $108.96.
OKE's <a href="https://stocknews.com/powr-ratings/">POWR Ratings</a> reflect its outlook. OKE has an A grade for Momentum and a B for Growth. It is ranked #16 among 58 stocks in the <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/utilities-domestic/">Utilities - Domestic</a> industry. The POWR Ratings are calculated by considering 118 different factors, with each factor weighted to an optimal degree.
<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/OKE/">Click here</a> to access the additional OKE ratings (Quality, Stability, Sentiment, and Value).
Stock #2: American Electric Power Company, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/AEP/">AEP</a>)
AEP is an electric public utility holding company that generates, transmits, and distributes electricity for sale to retail and wholesale customers in the United States. It operates through Vertically Integrated Utilities; Transmission and Distribution Utilities; AEP Transmission Holdco; and Generation &amp; Marketing segments. 
AEP has paid dividends for 15 consecutive years.  Its annual dividend is $3.72, which translates to a yield of 3.83% at the current share price. Its four-year average dividend yield is 3.63%. Moreover, the company's dividend payouts have increased at a CAGR of 6% over the past three years.
In terms of the trailing-12-month gross profit margin, AEP's 45.08% is marginally higher than the 44.92% industry average. Its 13.46% trailing-12-month net income margin is 3.9% higher than the 12.96% industry average.
During the third quarter, which ended September 30, 2024, AEP's revenue increased by 1.9% year-over-year to $5.40 billion. The company's non-GAAP operating earnings and non-GAAP operating EPS grew 6.7% and 4.5% year-over-year to $985.40 billion and $1.85, respectively.
Street expects AEP's revenue for the fourth quarter ended December 2024, to increase 5.8% year-over-year to $4.91 billion. Its EPS is expected to grow 12.5% year-over-year to $1.43. The company surpassed consensus EPS estimates in three of the trailing four quarters.
AEP's stock gained 19.7% over the past nine months to close the last trading session at $97.25.
AEP's fundamentals are reflected in its POWR Ratings. The stock has a B grade for Momentum, Growth, and Stability. AEP is ranked #8 in the same industry.
Beyond what is stated above, we've also rated AEP for Sentiment, Value, and Quality. Get all AEP ratings <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/AEP/">here</a>.
Stock #1: UGI Corporation (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/UGI/">UGI</a>)
UGI distributes, stores, transports, and markets energy products and related services in the United States and internationally. The company operates through four segments: AmeriGas Propane; UGI International; Midstream &amp; Marketing; and UGI Utilities. 
UGI has paid dividends for 37 consecutive years.  Its annual dividend is $1.50, which translates to a yield of 4.99% at the current share price. Its four-year average dividend yield is 4.56%. Moreover, the company's dividend payouts have increased at a CAGR of 3.2% over the past three years.
UGI's trailing-12-month gross profit margin of 51.05% is 13.8% higher than the 44.85% industry average. Likewise, the stock's trailing-12-month ROTC of 5.68% is 39.3% higher than the 4.08% industry average.
In the fiscal year that ended September 30, 2024, UGI's revenues were $7.21 billion. Its operating income was $770 million, compared to a loss of $1.44 billion in the prior year. While its net income attributable to UGI Corporation stood at $269 million, compared to a loss of $1.50 billion in the prior year. Its adjusted diluted EPS came in at $3.06, up 7.7% over the prior year.
Street expects UGI's revenue for the fiscal year (ending September 30, 2025) to increase 28.4% year-over-year to $ 9.25 billion. Its EPS for the same year is $2.91. In addition, it surpassed the consensus EPS estimates in each of the trailing four quarters.
The stock has gained 22.4% over the past six months, closing the last trading session at $30.09.
UGI's POWR Ratings reflect bright prospects. The stock has a B grade for Quality and Growth. It is ranked #7 in the same industry.
In addition to the POWR Ratings highlighted above, one can access UGI's ratings for Stability, Momentum, Value, and Sentiment <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/UGI/">here</a>.
What To Do Next?
Get your hands on this special report with 3 low priced companies with tremendous upside potential even in today's volatile markets:
<a href="https://report.stocknews.com/free-report/3stocks/?formplacement=artbotad_3s">3 Stocks to DOUBLE This Year &gt;</a>

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OKE shares closed at $108.96 on Friday, up $0.30 (+0.28%). Year-to-date, OKE has gained 8.53%, versus a 1.96% rise in the benchmark S&amp;P 500 index during the same period.
<hr><div style="clear:both;"></div> <h2>About the Author: Nidhi Agarwal</h2> <img src='https:/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Nidhi-Agarwal_Headshot-3.jpg' style="float:left; padding:5px;width:125px;">Nidhi is passionate about the capital market and wealth management, which led her to pursue a career as an investment analyst. She holds a bachelor's degree in finance and marketing and is pursuing the CFA program.

Her fundamental approach to analyzing stocks helps investors identify the best investment opportunities.<a href="https://stocknews.com/authors/?author=nidhi-agarwal">More...</a>The post <a href=https://stocknews.com/news/oke-aep-ugi-3-high-dividend-utility-stocks-for-stable-income/>3 High-Dividend Utility Stocks for Stable Income</a> appeared first on <a href=https://stocknews.com/>StockNews.com</a>

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