Core Viewpoint - CenterPoint Energy (NYSE: CNP) has shown strong performance over the past year, with a 21% increase in stock value, particularly recovering from summer lows amid hurricanes in Texas [1] Group 1: Stock Performance - The stock has rallied steadily since summer lows, indicating resilience despite external challenges [1] - A modest decline was observed on Thursday following the release of earnings that were largely in line with expectations [1] Group 2: Analyst Insights - The article reflects a contrarian investment approach based on macro views and stock-specific turnaround stories, aiming for outsized returns with a favorable risk/reward profile [1]

Core Insights - CenterPoint Energy, Inc. (CNP) reported fourth-quarter 2024 adjusted earnings of 40 cents per share, a 25% increase from 32 cents in the same quarter last year, attributed to lower operating and maintenance expenses and favorable regulatory recovery [1] - The company's GAAP earnings were 38 cents per share, reflecting a 26.7% improvement from the prior year's 30 cents [2] - For the full year 2024, adjusted earnings were reported at $1.62 per share, up from $1.50 in the previous year, aligning with the Zacks Consensus Estimate [2] Revenue Performance - CNP generated revenues of $2.26 billion in the fourth quarter, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.28 billion by 0.9%, but showing a 3.7% increase from the previous year's figure [3] - For the full year 2024, revenues totaled $8.64 billion, which was below the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $8.66 billion and 0.6% lower than the previous year's revenue [3] Operational Results - Total expenses for 2024 decreased by 4.1% year over year to $6.65 billion, while operating income rose to $1.99 billion from $1.76 billion a year ago [4] - Interest expenses and other finance charges increased to $818 million, a 19.6% rise from $684 million in the previous year [4] Financial Condition - As of December 31, 2024, cash and cash equivalents stood at $24 million, down from $90 million a year earlier [5] - Total long-term debt increased to $20.40 billion from $17.56 billion as of December 31, 2023 [5] - Net cash flow from operating activities was $2.13 billion, a decrease from $3.88 billion in the prior year [5] - Total capital expenditure was reported at $4.51 million, slightly up from $4.44 billion a year ago [5] 2025 Guidance - CenterPoint Energy reaffirmed its 2025 earnings guidance, expecting adjusted earnings in the range of $1.74-$1.76 per share, with the Zacks Consensus Estimate at $1.75 per share [6] Zacks Rank - CNP currently holds a Zacks Rank 2 (Buy) [7]

FOURTH QUARTER & FY 2024 INVESTOR UPDATE Cautionary Statement and Other Disclaimer This presentation and the oral statements made in connection herewith contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this presentation and the oral statements made in connection herewith are forward-looking statements made in good faith by CenterPoint ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported non-GAAP EPS of $0.40 for Q4 2024 and $1.62 for the full year, representing an 8% growth over 2023 results [10][11][48] - The non-GAAP EPS for the fourth quarter increased from $0.32 in Q4 2023, indicating strong financial performance [48] - The company reaffirmed its 2025 non-GAAP EPS guidance range of $1.74 to $1.76, equating to an 8% growth at the midpoint from 2024 [12][55] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Rate recovery contributed $0.05 to EPS compared to the same quarter last year, driven by ongoing recovery from interim mechanisms [49] - O&M expenses contributed an additional $0.05 favorability, primarily due to work pulled forward in Q4 of the previous year [49] - The company plans to transition to a more aggressive vegetation management cycle, which may reset O&M levels in the near term but aims for continued reductions [52][110] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced significant electric demand growth in Texas, particularly in the Greater Houston area, with a forecasted peak demand increase of nearly 50% by 2031 [35][38] - Approximately 40 gigawatts in load interconnection requests were received, indicating strong interest in connecting to the grid [37] - The company anticipates that the growth in the Houston area will drive substantial capital investment opportunities [45] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on improving system resiliency with a proposed $5.75 billion investment plan from 2026 to 2028 [13][14] - The company aims to become the most resilient coastal grid in the U.S. through significant investments in infrastructure [17] - The company is actively pursuing regulatory settlements that balance customer needs with investor returns, as seen in recent rate case outcomes [18][22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to meet or exceed financial guidance for the fourth consecutive year, positioning it in the top decile of its peer group [75] - The company highlighted the importance of regulatory progress and constructive relationships with stakeholders in achieving favorable outcomes [90][92] - Management noted that the ongoing growth in the Houston area provides a unique long-term growth opportunity for the company [45][76] Other Important Information - The company is in the process of finalizing a temporary generation transaction to support reliability needs in the San Antonio area [31][66] - The company expects to recover 98% of costs related to storm recovery, showcasing a constructive regulatory environment [59] - The company plans to file for securitization of storm costs related to Hurricane Beryl, with proceeds anticipated by the end of the year [73] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you compare the growth forecast to what ERCOT might have used last year? - Management indicated that last year's ERCOT submission was focused on West Texas, and this year reflects a significant increase in demand from the Houston area, adding about 10 gigawatts to the previous projections [84][86] Question: Any update on rating agency views? - Management noted that rating agencies are focused on the constructive Texas regulatory environment, the Houston Electric rate case, and the securitization of prior storm costs [90][92] Question: Have you committed to an Analyst Day? - Management confirmed a commitment to update the market with a new 10-year capital investment plan, likely following the Texas voltage standard decision expected in May [96][97] Question: Can you elaborate on financing needs? - Management stated that equity needs for 2025 are covered, and they will continue to utilize various financing options, including the ATM for modest equity needs [101][102] Question: Can you discuss the cost control program? - Management highlighted ongoing efforts to reduce O&M costs through automation and standardization, aiming for a 1% to 2% annual reduction [108][112] Question: Can you expand on the mobile generation discussions with regulators? - Management emphasized ongoing dialogue with stakeholders and the recognition of the value of the temporary generation units to support ERCOT's needs [117][118] Question: Any proposals from the Texas legislature on your radar? - Management indicated they are monitoring legislative developments, particularly regarding cost allocation for large loads, and are working constructively with stakeholders [122][123]

For the quarter ended December 2024, CenterPoint Energy (CNP) reported revenue of $2.26 billion, up 3.7% over the same period last year. EPS came in at $0.40, compared to $0.32 in the year-ago quarter.The reported revenue represents a surprise of -0.91% over the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.28 billion. With the consensus EPS estimate being $0.40, the company has not delivered EPS surprise.While investors closely watch year-over-year changes in headline numbers -- revenue and earnings -- and how they compa ...

CenterPoint Energy (CNP) came out with quarterly earnings of $0.40 per share, in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate. This compares to earnings of $0.32 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items.A quarter ago, it was expected that this energy delivery company would post earnings of $0.36 per share when it actually produced earnings of $0.31, delivering a surprise of -13.89%.Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus EPS estimates two times.CenterPoint, ...

FOURTH QUARTER & FY 2024 INVESTOR UPDATE Cautionary Statement and Other Disclaimer This presentation and the oral statements made in connection herewith contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exi slatements of hisbical for his presentation and the oral statements made in connection herevilt are fonard-looking statements mate in the Cremerint Energi chil, crear (cont and quidance, growth, costs, prospects, captial ...

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 ______________________ Form 10-K (Mark One) ☑ ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2024 OR ☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM TO | Registrant, State or Other Jurisdiction | | | | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | of Incorporation or Organization | | | | | ...

ERCOT Weather Watch issued for February 19-21 due to forecasted extreme cold weather across its region, meaning higher electrical demand and the potential for lower reserves    CenterPoint continues to monitor forecasts and perform readiness checks for its electric and natural gas systems ahead of potential freezing temperatures impacting the company's Texas service territoryCompany urges customers to have a plan and make winter weather preparations to stay safe and warmHOUSTON, Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - ...

In its upcoming report, CenterPoint Energy (CNP) is predicted by Wall Street analysts to post quarterly earnings of $0.40 per share, reflecting an increase of 25% compared to the same period last year. Revenues are forecasted to be $2.28 billion, representing a year-over-year increase of 4.6%.Over the past 30 days, the consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been adjusted upward by 1.7% to its current level. This demonstrates the covering analysts' collective reassessment of their initial projections dur ...