Core Insights - Southern Silver Exploration Corp. has reported successful drilling results from its Cerro Las Minitas project, indicating significant extensions of silver-polymetallic mineralization at the South Skarn deposit [1][6] - The drilling program included six core holes totaling 2395 meters, which successfully intersected thick intervals of mineralized skarn and identified strong gold-enrichment in several intercepts [2][4] Drilling Results - Notable highlights from drill hole 24CLM-198 include: - A 0.5-meter interval averaging 154g/t Ag, 0.2g/t Au, 5.6% Cu, and 0.1% Zn, resulting in 834g/t AgEq within an 8.9-meter interval averaging 222g/t AgEq [4] - A 4.0-meter interval averaging 81g/t Ag, 0.2g/t Au, 0.1% Cu, 0.4% Pb, and 3.9% Zn, yielding 267g/t AgEq [4] - A 0.9-meter interval averaging 124g/t Ag, 5.2g/t Au, and 4.0% Pb, equating to 682g/t AgEq [4] - A 5.1-meter interval averaging 7g/t Ag and 1.8g/t Au, corresponding to 167g/t AgEq [4] Project Development - The Cerro Las Minitas project is designed as a large-scale underground mining operation with strong project economics and high gross revenues, situated in a mining-friendly jurisdiction in southeast Durango, Mexico [7] - The company is advancing various upside opportunities identified after the July 2024 Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) and is conducting baseline data collection, hydrology, geotechnical, archaeological, and land surveys [6][10] Company Overview - Southern Silver Exploration Corp. focuses on discovering world-class mineral deposits, particularly through its 100% owned Cerro Las Minitas project, which is located in Mexico's Faja de Plata [10] - The company has a portfolio that includes the newly acquired Nazas gold-silver property and other projects in New Mexico, USA [10]

Core Insights - Southern Company reported fourth-quarter 2024 earnings per share of 50 cents, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by one cent and declining from the previous year's adjusted profit of 64 cents due to increased expenses [1] - The company achieved revenues of $6.3 billion, a 4.9% increase from fourth-quarter 2023, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $6.2 billion, driven by higher electricity sales and favorable weather [2] - Southern Company guided earnings per share for the current year between $4.20 and $4.30, maintaining a long-term EPS growth rate projection of 5-7% [2] Sales Performance - Wholesale power sales increased by 2.5%, with retail electricity demand also rising, leading to a total electricity sales increase of 2.7% year-over-year [3] - Total retail sales rose by 2.8%, with residential, commercial, and industrial sales increasing by 1.9%, 4.4%, and 2%, respectively [3] Expense Overview - Operations and maintenance costs rose by 14.6% year-over-year to $2 billion, contributing to a total operating expense of $5.3 billion, which was a 9.2% increase from the prior year and exceeded estimates [4]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported strong adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $4.05 for 2024, representing an 11% growth from the previous year and at the top of the guidance range [27][40]. - Weather-normalized total retail electricity sales increased approximately 1% compared to 2023, with commercial sales up 17% year-over-year [28][30]. - The company expects retail electricity sales to grow approximately 2% to 3% in 2025 compared to 2024 [29]. Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company added 57,000 new residential electric customers and 26,000 new customers in natural gas distribution businesses [29]. - Georgia Power's total retail electric sales growth is projected to be approximately 12% from 2025 to 2029 [30]. - The commercial segment, which includes data centers, is projected to grow an average of 18% from 2025 to 2029 [30]. Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The economic development pipeline from large electric load customers represents over 50,000 megawatts of potential incremental load by the mid-2030s, with data centers alone accounting for roughly 80% of that potential load [11]. - The company signed contracts to serve over 1,000 megawatts of power needs for data centers in Alabama and Mississippi [12]. Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains committed to its state-regulated utility franchises, which are expected to represent approximately 95% of projected capital investments [13]. - The capital investment forecast over the next five years is $63 billion, a 30% increase from the previous year's forecast [32]. - The company is exploring opportunities outside the Southeast to serve data centers with new natural gas generation [17]. Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term growth outlook, with a projected average annual sales growth of approximately 8% from 2025 through 2029 [30]. - The company aims to maintain strong credit quality, which distinguishes it from much of the industry [46]. - Management highlighted the importance of investing in future leaders to maintain competitive advantage [47]. Other Important Information - The company has paid a dividend equal to or greater than the previous year for 77 consecutive years, with projected continued modest increases in dividends [38][39]. - The financing plan supports the base capital plan while preserving investment-grade credit ratings [35]. Q&A Session Summary Question: Earnings growth cadence and potential derailments - Management indicated confidence in sustaining a long-term growth outlook of 5% to 7%, with incremental updates potentially allowing for a higher starting point as early as 2027 [54][56]. Question: Capital investment opportunities split - The majority of the $10 billion to $15 billion investment opportunities are associated with Georgia Power, with ongoing regulatory processes expected to provide clarity by mid-year [58][59]. Question: Southern Power's cumulative earnings trajectory - Management noted that Southern Power's assets are under long-term contracts, contributing to a stable earnings trajectory [67][70]. Question: Data center contracting changes - The company has codified rules to ensure balance and fairness in contracts with large load customers, which is expected to enhance market clarity [86][89]. Question: Availability of gas turbines - Management expressed confidence in their diversified supplier base for gas turbines, despite challenges in the supply chain [100][101]. Question: FFO to debt trajectory - Management aims to achieve a 17% FFO to debt level by the middle to late part of the five-year horizon [104]. Question: Growth in Alabama and Mississippi - Management highlighted significant economic development activity in both states, with projects expected to enhance capacity opportunities [108][109]. Question: Future of nuclear energy - Management emphasized the need for more nuclear energy as a long-term solution for low growth in the industry, advocating for continued investment in nuclear projects [113][116].

Core Viewpoint - Southern Co. reported a revenue of $6.34 billion for the quarter ended December 2024, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 4.9% and surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $6.22 billion by 1.96% [1] Financial Performance - Earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter was $0.50, down from $0.64 in the same quarter last year, resulting in an EPS surprise of -1.96% against the consensus estimate of $0.51 [1] - The stock has returned +4.8% over the past month, outperforming the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +2.6% change, and currently holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold) [3] Operating Revenues Breakdown - Southern Power reported operating revenues of $417 million, significantly below the estimated $567.15 million, marking a year-over-year decline of 17.1% [4] - Southern Company Natural Gas generated $1.24 billion in operating revenues, exceeding the $1.15 billion estimate, but reflecting a year-over-year decrease of 3.8% [4] - Georgia Power's operating revenues were $2.59 billion, surpassing the $2.37 billion estimate, with an increase of 11.8% year-over-year [4] - Mississippi Power reported $345 million in operating revenues, slightly below the $358.11 million estimate, with a year-over-year increase of 2.4% [4] - Other operating revenues reached $331 million, exceeding the $271.27 million estimate, representing a year-over-year increase of 15.3% [4] - Alabama Power's operating revenues were $1.75 billion, below the $1.82 billion estimate, with a year-over-year increase of 7.4% [4] Net Income Analysis - Southern Company Gas reported net income available to common of $185 million, significantly above the $115.74 million estimate [4] - Southern Power's net income available to common was $64 million, below the $112.16 million estimate [4] - Mississippi Power's net income available to common was $13 million, falling short of the $41.23 million estimate [4] - Alabama Power reported net income available to common of $208 million, exceeding the $129.54 million estimate [4] - Georgia Power's net income available to common was $294 million, significantly below the $448.47 million estimate [4]

Core Viewpoint - Southern Co. reported quarterly earnings of $0.50 per share, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.51 per share, and down from $0.64 per share a year ago, indicating an earnings surprise of -1.96% [1] - The company posted revenues of $6.34 billion for the quarter, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 1.96% and up from $6.05 billion year-over-year [2] Financial Performance - Over the last four quarters, Southern Co. has surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times [2] - The company has also topped consensus revenue estimates three times in the last four quarters [2] - The current consensus EPS estimate for the upcoming quarter is $1.11 on revenues of $6.91 billion, and for the current fiscal year, it is $4.31 on revenues of $27.4 billion [7] Stock Performance - Southern Co. shares have increased approximately 5.1% since the beginning of the year, compared to a 4.5% gain in the S&P 500 [3] - The stock currently holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold), indicating expected performance in line with the market in the near future [6] Industry Outlook - The Utility - Electric Power industry is currently ranked in the bottom 46% of over 250 Zacks industries, suggesting potential challenges ahead [8] - Empirical research indicates a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions, which could impact Southern Co.'s stock performance [5]

Core Insights - Southern Company reported fourth-quarter earnings of $534 million, or 49 cents per share, for 2024, a decrease from $855 million, or 78 cents per share, in the fourth quarter of 2023 [1] - For the full year 2024, Southern Company earned $4.4 billion, or $4.02 per share, compared to $4.0 billion, or $3.64 per share, in 2023 [1] - Excluding certain items, fourth-quarter earnings were $544 million, or 50 cents per share, down from $700 million, or 64 cents per share, in the same quarter of 2023 [2] Financial Performance - Fourth-quarter operating revenues increased to $6.3 billion, up 4.9% from $6.0 billion in the fourth quarter of 2023 [4] - Full-year operating revenues for 2024 were $26.7 billion, a 5.8% increase from $25.3 billion in 2023 [4] - The company experienced higher utility revenues, which were partially offset by increased non-fuel operations and maintenance expenses, interest expense, depreciation and amortization, and income taxes [4] Earnings Breakdown - Traditional Electric Operating Companies reported a net income of $515 million for the fourth quarter of 2024, down from $785 million in 2023 [10] - Southern Company Gas reported a net income of $185 million for the fourth quarter of 2024, up from $140 million in 2023 [10] - The average shares outstanding increased to 1,098 million in the fourth quarter of 2024 from 1,092 million in 2023 [10] Management Commentary - CEO Christopher C. Womack highlighted the dedication of the team and the company's commitment to sustainably meeting energy needs, which is expected to support continued success [5] Customer Metrics - Southern Company served approximately 9 million customers across the Southeast and beyond, with a slight increase in total regulated utility customers to 8,936 thousand in 2024 from 8,861 thousand in 2023 [7][29]

Core Viewpoint - Koryx Copper Inc. has announced promising assay results from its Phase 2 drill program at the Haib Copper Project in Namibia, indicating potential for improved mineral resource grades and a transformative year ahead for the project [2][4][5]. Exploration and Development Strategy - The 2025 technical strategy includes an intensive drill program of over 55,000 meters aimed at increasing the size and grade of the Haib mineral resource estimate (MRE) along with various technical, environmental, and metallurgical studies [6][7]. - The project is expected to reach the bankability stage by the end of 2026, with major permitting and technical studies to be completed [7]. Drill Program Details - A total of 17 drill holes have been completed out of a planned 37 for Phase 2, with significant Cu-equivalent grades reported, including notable intersections such as 146m at 0.53% CuEq in hole HM52 [9][24]. - The drilling strategy focuses on targeting higher-grade mineralization and validating the existing resource model [16][18]. Target Areas and Results - Haib consists of four major target areas, each with distinct geological features, and the recent drilling has primarily focused on Targets 2 and 3 [10][12]. - Results from Target 2 and Target 3 have shown higher-grade assays than previously estimated, with several holes confirming shallow high-grade mineralization [21][24][26]. Quality Control and Analysis - All samples underwent multi-element analyses to ensure comprehensive accounting for byproducts, with molybdenum and gold consistently present in the assays [19][20]. - The quality control measures include rigorous testing and verification processes to maintain data integrity [33]. Company Overview - Koryx Copper Inc. is focused on advancing the Haib Copper Project, which has a current mineral resource of 414 million tonnes at 0.35% Cu in the Indicated category and 345 million tonnes at 0.33% Cu in the Inferred category [37][38].

Financial Performance - The Southern Company reported a significant increase in revenue, reaching $20.5 billion for the fiscal year, a 10% increase compared to the previous year[21] - The company achieved a net income of $3.1 billion, reflecting a 15% growth year-over-year[21] - Southern Company anticipates a 5% increase in electricity sales driven by economic recovery and population growth in its service areas[21] - The company has set a target of achieving a return on equity (ROE) of 10% for the upcoming fiscal year[21] Customer Growth and Market Expansion - Customer growth was noted with an increase of 150,000 new customers, representing a 2% rise in the customer base[21] - Southern Company is expanding its market presence by acquiring two regional utilities, which is expected to add approximately 1 million customers[21] Investment in Renewable Energy - The company plans to invest $5 billion in renewable energy projects over the next five years, aiming for a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030[21] - Southern Company is focused on the development of low- to no-carbon energy and battery energy storage technologies, which are critical for future growth[22] - The company is actively involved in the development of low- to no-carbon energy technologies and battery energy storage[22] - Southern Power holds a 67% ownership interest in SP Solar, which owns solar and battery energy storage facilities[19] Technology and Infrastructure Development - The company has launched a new energy efficiency program projected to save customers $200 million annually[21] - Southern Company is advancing its technology initiatives, with $300 million allocated for smart grid technology development in the next three years[21] - The company is committed to completing necessary pipeline expansion and infrastructure projects, which are essential for maintaining service reliability[22] - Southern Company is focused on expanding its pipeline infrastructure to meet growing demand for natural gas[22] Regulatory and Legal Challenges - The company is actively pursuing regulatory approvals for its new nuclear plant, with an estimated completion cost of $12 billion[21] - Southern Company is facing challenges related to the costs and legal requirements associated with coal combustion residuals (CCR) and ongoing litigation regarding the Kemper County energy facility and Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4[22] - The company is navigating regulatory changes at both federal and state levels, which could affect operational costs and compliance requirements[22] - The company is subject to various federal and state regulatory changes, impacting costs and compliance plans[22] - There are ongoing litigation matters related to the Kemper County energy facility and Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4[22] Cost Management and Competition - Southern Company is actively managing costs to avoid overruns during the development and construction of facilities, which includes addressing labor and material challenges[22] - The company is assessing the impact of increased competition in its markets, particularly from alternative energy sources[22] - Southern Company is monitoring the performance of its renewable energy partnerships and development agreements to ensure successful project execution[24] Strategic Business Initiatives - The company is exploring potential business strategies, including acquisitions or dispositions, to enhance its market position[24] - Southern Company is exploring potential acquisitions or dispositions of assets to enhance its business strategy[24] Economic and Financial Monitoring - The company is monitoring the impact of global economic conditions, including inflation and interest rate fluctuations, on its operations[24] - The company is committed to maintaining its credit ratings and access to capital markets for financing[24] - Southern Company is focused on reducing GHG emissions and has set specific reduction goals[22]

Group 1 - Norfolk Southern (NYSE: NSC) is identified as a recovery play that has recently outperformed the market following a significant derailment incident in East Palestine, OH, which initially pressured its margins and stock price [1] - The company is focused on long-term growth and dividend growth investing, emphasizing the importance of profitability over low valuation, with a focus on margins, free cash flow stability, and returns on invested capital [1] Group 2 - The article does not provide any specific financial data or performance metrics related to Norfolk Southern or the broader industry [2][3]

Southern Copper Corporation (SCCO) reported fourth-quarter 2024 earnings of $1.01 per share, which marginally missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.02. The bottom line, however, marked a 74% surge from the year-ago quarter. Results were driven by higher sales volumes for copper, zinc and silver, and improved prices. SCCO’s fourth-quarter performance was partially hurt by a decline in the molybdenum sales volume.Find the latest EPS estimates and surprises on Zacks Earnings Calendar.Southern Copper’s Sale ...