CenterPoint Energy Q4 Earnings In Line With Estimates, Revenues Rise Y/Y

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]