IDACORP(IDA) ZACKS·2024-12-18 13:41Core Viewpoint - IDACORP Inc. (IDA) is positioned as a strong investment option in the utility sector due to its strategic investments aimed at enhancing infrastructure, effective cost management, and a focus on clean energy production [1] Group 1: Growth Projections - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for IDA's 2024 earnings per share (EPS) has increased by 0.6% to 1.85 billion, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 4.5% [3] - IDA's long-term earnings growth rate is forecasted at 8.31%, with an average earnings surprise of 4.3% over the last four quarters [3] Group 2: Financial Position - IDA's total debt to capital ratio stands at 48.8%, significantly better than the industry average of 61.7% [4] - The time-to-interest earned ratio is 2.9, indicating the company's capability to meet future interest obligations comfortably [4] Group 3: Liquidity - The current ratio for IDA is 1.71, surpassing the industry average of 0.77, suggesting sufficient short-term assets to cover liabilities [5] Group 4: Dividend History - IDA has consistently increased shareholder value through regular dividends, currently paying 86 cents per share, which translates to an annualized dividend of 925-1-3.5-$4 billion from 2026 to 2028, indicating a 46% increase from the previous five-year capital expenditure plan [7] - These investments are expected to strengthen IDA's infrastructure and expand its operations, allowing for a broader customer base [7] Group 6: Stock Performance - Over the past six months, IDA's shares have increased by 23.1%, compared to the industry's growth of 7.2% [8]