Economic Overview - Consumer confidence in the economy has decreased, attributed to rising inflation and fears of a global trade war due to proposed tariffs by President Trump [1][4] - The University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index fell to 64.7 in February from 71.7 in January, marking a 15-month low [4] - The five-year inflation outlook increased to 3.5%, the highest since 1995, up from 3.2% in January [4] Inflation Data - The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 0.5% in January, following a 0.4% increase in December, exceeding analysts' expectations of a 0.3% rise [5] - Year-over-year, CPI increased by 3% in January, compared to a 2.9% rise in December, marking the largest annual gain since April 2024 [6] - Core CPI, excluding food and energy, rose 0.4% sequentially in January after a 0.2% increase in December [6] Federal Reserve and Tariff Concerns - The Federal Reserve maintained interest rates in January and indicated fewer rate cuts in 2025, raising concerns about a delay in the next rate cut [7][8] - Market expectations for a rate cut in May are unlikely, with a potential delay until the second half of the year [8] - Trump's tariffs, including a 25% tariff on pharmaceuticals, automobiles, and semiconductors, have heightened consumer concerns about the economy [9][10] Defensive Investment Recommendations - Utilities and consumer staple stocks are recommended as defensive investments amid economic uncertainty [2] - Pinnacle West Capital Corporation (PNW), NiSource Inc. (NI), Atmos Energy Corporation (ATO), Tyson Foods (TSN), and Molson Coors Beverage Company (TAP) are highlighted as strong picks, each with a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy) or 2 (Buy) [2] - These stocks are characterized as low-beta (beta < 1) with high dividend yields, making them suitable for cautious investors [3] Company Profiles - **Pinnacle West Capital Corporation (PNW)**: Expected earnings growth rate of 16.3%, Zacks Rank 2, beta of 0.57, dividend yield of 3.91% [13] - **NiSource Inc. (NI)**: Expected earnings growth rate of 9.1%, Zacks Rank 2, beta of 0.54, dividend yield of 2.80% [15] - **Atmos Energy Corporation (ATO)**: Expected earnings growth rate of 5.1%, Zacks Rank 2, beta of 0.72, dividend yield of 2.32% [17] - **Tyson Foods (TSN)**: Expected earnings growth rate of 22.6%, Zacks Rank 2, beta of 0.80, dividend yield of 3.31% [19] - **Molson Coors Beverage Company (TAP)**: Expected earnings growth rate of 6.5%, Zacks Rank 1, beta of 0.85, dividend yield of 2.92% [21]

Group 1 - Investors in Atmos Energy Corporation (ATO) should monitor the stock due to significant activity in the options market, particularly the Apr 17, 2025 $80.00 Put, which has high implied volatility [1] - Implied volatility indicates the market's expectation of future price movement, suggesting that investors anticipate a significant change in Atmos Energy's stock price [2] - Atmos Energy currently holds a Zacks Rank 2 (Buy) in the Utility - Gas Distribution industry, which is in the top 15% of the Zacks Industry Rank [3] Group 2 - The recent high implied volatility may indicate a developing trading opportunity, as options traders often seek to sell premium on options with high implied volatility to capture decay [4]

Core Insights - Eviden has launched four new BullSequana SH servers powered by Intel Xeon 6 processors, offering up to 1.5x better performance and 1.7x better memory bandwidth for AI workloads and critical applications compared to previous generations [1][6]. Performance and Architecture - The new servers are designed with a scale-up architecture, which is more suitable for real-time business processing and big data analytics, allowing for maximum computational resources and reduced latency [2]. - The BullSequana SH range features a computing capacity from one to eight 2-socket server modules, with scalability from 2 to 32 processors and up to 128 terabytes of DDR5 memory [3]. Cooling Technology - The servers incorporate Eviden's patented DLC technology for cooling, achieving heat dispersion efficiency of up to 97% and functionality at inlet water temperatures of 40°C, which significantly enhances Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) [4]. - Compared to traditional air cooling systems, the DLC technology offers at least a 10% reduction in energy consumption and carbon emissions, while also doubling rack density [4]. Manufacturing and Track Record - The BullSequana SH servers are entirely manufactured in Eviden's flagship factory in Angers, France, and have a proven track record with over 200 successful deployments globally [5]. Strategic Positioning - The BullSequana SH range is part of Eviden's broader AI expertise and offers a flexible platform for various AI applications, reinforcing the company's commitment to redefining the future of AI and critical applications for businesses and cloud providers [6].

Core Viewpoint - Atos successfully deployed innovative digital technologies during the Winter European Youth Olympic Festival Bakuriani 2025, enhancing the event's success and demonstrating readiness for larger-scale applications [1][2][10]. Digital Services and Innovations - Atos provided a comprehensive suite of digital services, including traditional Timing and Results services, a real-time results information system, and an interactive database for fans and stakeholders [3][4]. - The event featured an AI-powered Media Center that delivered automated media clips and highlights to stakeholders, significantly speeding up video dissemination [5]. - An innovative solution was developed to keep onsite attendees and online users informed about live events, combining real-time results with video highlights [6]. - An AI-powered chatbot was implemented to provide instant information to fans about the event and historical results [7]. Engagement and Community Building - Atos developed SportEurope, an integrated online fan ecosystem that connects the event's web presence, social media, and marketing systems, fostering continuous engagement with sports enthusiasts [8]. - The Winter Crystal gaming experience was introduced, allowing players to explore Georgian landmarks and EYOF venues through interactive challenges [9]. Event Impact and Achievements - The event operated 8 sports across 5 venues in 3 host cities, with significant digital engagement metrics, including over 200 live streaming hours and more than 1 million Instagram views [18]. - Atos's involvement in the Olympic Movement since 1992 and its role as the Official Digital Technology Partner for various Olympic events underscores its expertise in delivering technology excellence [15][20].

Core Insights - Atos successfully delivered critical IT services for the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025, enhancing the event's unique experience [1][5] - The event featured 550 competitors from 23 nations and introduced winter sports to the Invictus Games for the first time [2][9] - Atos has over 30 years of experience in supporting major sporting events, showcasing its technological expertise [6][7] Company Overview - Atos is a global leader in digital transformation with approximately 82,000 employees and annual revenue of around €10 billion [11] - The company specializes in cybersecurity, cloud services, and high-performance computing, providing tailored solutions across 69 countries [11] - Atos is committed to decarbonization and aims to create a secure digital environment for its clients [12] Event Details - The Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 took place from February 8 to 16, 2025, featuring 11 adaptive sports [2][9] - Atos provided a comprehensive range of services, including data processing, timing, scoring, and live results for various sports [2][5] - The Games aim to inspire recovery and support rehabilitation for wounded, injured, and sick service members and veterans [3][9] Technological Contributions - Atos deployed over 110 computers and provided more than 300 TV graphics for live broadcasts during the event [5] - The company implemented a remote On-Venue Result system for specific sports, ensuring smooth operations throughout the competition [5] - Atos's advanced sports technologies significantly enhanced the event's readiness and deployment capabilities [4] Future Aspirations - Atos aims to continue integrating new features in future editions of the Invictus Games and other major events [6] - The company has a long-standing relationship with the Olympic and Paralympic movements, further solidifying its position in the sports technology sector [7]

Economic Overview - A sharp rise in inflation has unsettled markets, with concerns that the Federal Reserve may delay its next rate cut until the second half of the year, potentially weakening the economy's health [1] - The consumer price index (CPI) increased by 0.5% in January, following a 0.4% rise in December, marking the sharpest increase since August 2023 and surpassing analysts' forecast of 0.3% [4] - Year-over-year, CPI climbed 3% in January from 2.9% in December, recording its biggest annual gain since April 2024 [5] - The producer price index (PPI) also increased by 0.4% in January, maintaining the same pace as the prior month, with an annual rise of 3.5% [7] Federal Reserve and Interest Rates - Given persistent inflation indicated by both CPI and PPI, a Federal Reserve rate cut is unlikely before the second half of the year, with the central bank previously cutting interest rates by 100 basis points over three consecutive meetings starting in September 2024 [8][9] - The Fed has paused its rate-cutting cycle, keeping interest rates steady at 4.25-4.5% in January, and is likely to remain cautious in the months ahead [9] Investment Recommendations - In light of economic uncertainties, it is suggested to invest in utility stocks such as NiSource Inc. (NI), Atmos Energy Corporation (ATO), American Water Works Company, Inc. (AWK), and New Jersey Resources Corporation (NJR), which belong to defensive sectors and carry favorable Zacks Ranks [2][10] - These stocks are categorized as low-beta stocks, with beta values greater than 0 but less than 1, making them suitable for investors seeking stability [3] Company Profiles - **NiSource Inc. (NI)**: Provides natural gas and electricity to nearly 4 million customers across six states, with an expected earnings growth rate of 9.1% and a current dividend yield of 2.82% [11][12] - **Atmos Energy Corporation (ATO)**: Engaged in regulated natural gas distribution, serving approximately 3.4 million customers, with an expected earnings growth rate of 5.1% and a current dividend yield of 2.38% [13][14] - **American Water Works Company (AWK)**: Provides essential water services to over 14 million customers in 24 states, with an expected earnings growth rate of 8% and a current dividend yield of 2.44% [15][16] - **New Jersey Resources Corporation (NJR)**: An energy services holding company providing natural gas and clean energy services, with an expected earnings growth rate of 7.5% and a current dividend yield of 3.94% [17][18]

Core Insights - Atmos Energy has been recognized as a leading employer in the U.S. utilities industry for the fifth consecutive year, making it to Forbes' "America's Best Employers" list [1][2] - The company's culture, known as AtmoSpirit, emphasizes innovation and engagement, reflecting the diverse skills and backgrounds of its workforce [1][2] - Atmos Energy ranks in the top 40 percent among 701 large organizations and is eighth in the utility industry [3] Company Overview - Atmos Energy Corporation is a natural gas-only distributor and an S&P 500 company headquartered in Dallas, serving over 3 million distribution customers across more than 1,400 communities in eight states [4] - The company focuses on delivering reliable, affordable, and efficient natural gas while investing in safety, innovation, and environmental sustainability [4] - Atmos Energy manages one of the largest intrastate natural gas pipeline systems in Texas [4] Recognition Process - The "America's Best Employers 2025" list was compiled through an independent survey of over 217,000 U.S. employees from companies with at least 1,000 employees [2] - Evaluations were based on personal feedback from employees and public opinions from friends, family, and industry peers, with personal evaluations carrying more weight [2]

Forbes Americas Best Employers Atmos Energy Recognized on Forbes Americas Best Employers List Dallas, Feb. 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Along with Atmos Energy’s vision to be the safest provider of natural gas services is also to be recognized for being a great employer, and for the fifth consecutive year the company has done just that. Today Atmos Energy was recognized as a leading employer in the U.S. and in the utilities industry when it was named to the Forbes “America’s Best Employers” list. Key to ...

Economic Overview - Concerns over inflation have led to a decline in consumer sentiment, with the Consumer Sentiment Index falling to 67.8 in February from 71.1 in January, marking a seven-month low [5][6] - The inflation expectation index for the next year rose to 4.3% in February from 3.3% in January, the highest since November 2023, while the five-year outlook increased to 3.3% from 3.2%, the highest since June 2008 [6] Federal Reserve Actions - The Federal Reserve maintained interest rates in January due to an unexpected rise in inflation, keeping the benchmark policy rate in the range of 4.25-4.5% [2][8] - The Fed's previous rate reductions and a series of 525 basis point increases since March 2022 have made it challenging to achieve the 2% inflation target [7][8] Investment Recommendations - In light of economic uncertainty, it is advisable to invest in utility and consumer staple stocks, which are considered defensive [3][4] - Recommended stocks include: - **Atmos Energy Corporation (ATO)**: Expected earnings growth of 5.1%, Zacks Rank 2, beta of 0.72, dividend yield of 2.44% [12] - **American Water Works Company (AWK)**: Expected earnings growth of 8%, Zacks Rank 2, beta of 0.72, dividend yield of 2.50% [14] - **NextEra Energy, Inc. (NEE)**: Expected earnings growth of 7.3%, Zacks Rank 2, beta of 0.58, dividend yield of 3.02% [16] - **Tyson Foods (TSN)**: Expected earnings growth of 22.6%, Zacks Rank 2, beta of 0.80, dividend yield of 3.45% [18] - **Lancaster Colony Corporation (LANC)**: Expected earnings growth of 6.1%, Zacks Rank 2, beta of 0.35, dividend yield of 2.01% [20] Market Sentiment - The uncertainty surrounding inflation and potential trade wars has contributed to market volatility, which is expected to persist until the next rate cut [10]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a first-quarter net income of $352 million, translating to $2.23 per diluted share, marking a 7.2% increase over the prior year quarter [4][12] - Consolidated operating income increased by 15% to $459 million in the first quarter [12] - Capital spending for the first fiscal quarter was $891 million, aimed at system modernization and growth [5] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Rate increases across both operating segments contributed $69 million to operating income [13] - Customer growth included over 59,000 new customers added in the last twelve months, with 46,000 in Texas [5] - APT's through-system revenues increased by $8 million due to higher throughput and spreads [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Texas Workforce Commission reported a record high of over 14.3 million employees in Texas, with job growth at a rate of 2% annually [6] - The company added eleven new industrial customers, expected to utilize 2.3 billion cubic feet of gas annually [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on system modernization and pipeline replacement to support growth [31] - A capital spending plan of $3.7 billion is in place for the fiscal year [24] - The company is pursuing regulatory filings for approximately $126 million in annualized operating income increases [18][20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to deliver reliable natural gas and highlighted the importance of natural gas in economic development [11] - The company is monitoring market conditions and weather impacts on future performance [49] Other Important Information - The company completed over $1 billion in long-term debt and equity financing, with $5.2 billion in available liquidity [22][23] - Customer satisfaction ratings remained high at 98%, and the company was ranked number one in customer satisfaction among mid-sized gas utilities in the Midwest for the third consecutive year [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: Inquiry about higher CapEx plan and rate lags - Management explained that the capital plan reflects growth and modernization strategies, continuing to identify projects across the system [31] Question: Clarification on large-scale industrial and generation projects - Management confirmed solid growth across all sectors, with eleven new industrial customers added [35] Question: Equity modeling for 2025 - Management suggested a range of $600 to $800 million for equity issuance in fiscal 2025 [42] Question: APT spread benefit and guidance - Management noted that spreads returned to normal historical norms and will monitor market conditions moving forward [49] Question: Opportunities from power generation - Management indicated that the new industrial customers are not power facilities but come from diverse industries [55] Question: Rate case challenges in Texas - Management characterized the rate cases as focused on regulatory mechanisms and expressed confidence in completing them by late spring [61] Question: Impact of tariffs on O&M and CapEx - Management stated that any potential impact from tariffs is currently low and they are monitoring the situation with suppliers [78] Question: Recovery mechanisms for potential cost increases - Management confirmed that they have annual mechanisms in place for cost recovery across jurisdictions [81]