Xcel Energy to Release Q4 Earnings: Here's What You Need to Know

Core Viewpoint - Xcel Energy (XEL) is expected to report its fourth-quarter 2024 results on February 6, with a prior negative earnings surprise of 3.1% in the last quarter [1][2]. Group 1: Factors Impacting Earnings - The quarterly earnings for Xcel Energy are likely to benefit from increased demand from data centers, the adoption of electric vehicles, and customer additions in both electric and natural gas sectors, alongside economic growth in its service region [3]. - A new natural gas rate effective in November 2024 in Colorado is also expected to positively impact earnings [3]. - Efficient operations management has allowed the company to maintain natural gas and electric rates lower than the national average, attracting more customers and creating additional demand [4]. - However, anticipated increases in operation and maintenance expenses may offset some of the positive impacts in the upcoming quarter [4]. Group 2: Earnings Expectations - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings is set at 87 cents per share, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 4.8% [5]. - The revenue estimate stands at $3.72 billion, indicating an 8% year-over-year improvement [5]. Group 3: Earnings Prediction Model - The earnings prediction model suggests a potential earnings beat for Xcel Energy, supported by a positive Earnings ESP of +0.58% [6]. - Currently, Xcel Energy holds a Zacks Rank of 3, indicating a hold position [7].