Spire to Benefit From Investments and Expanding Customer Base

Core Viewpoint - Spire Inc. is positioned to benefit from its investments aimed at expanding operations and meeting increasing customer demand, while also leveraging technology to enhance efficiency and service quality [1][4]. Investment and Growth Plans - Spire plans to invest $790 million in fiscal 2025, which is $100 million more than its previous estimate, focusing on reliability, new service connections, and advanced meter installations in Spire Missouri [2]. - The company has a long-term capital investment plan of $7.4 billion over the next decade, expecting to drive 7-8% rate base growth [2]. Customer Base and Technological Advancements - There has been a consistent increase in the average number of gas utility customers, with Spire installing over 350,000 advanced meters in fiscal 2024, benefiting a total of 850,000 customers [3]. - The company is innovating through technology, which not only enhances service quality but also reduces operational costs, benefiting customers [4]. Challenges and Risks - Spire's supply of natural gas is reliant on the performance of suppliers and the capacity of pipeline and storage operators, posing a risk to financial performance in case of disruptions [5]. - The company faces regulatory challenges due to numerous environmental laws, which can increase operating costs and impact profitability if compliance is not met [6]. Stock Performance - Over the past six months, Spire's stock has increased by 14.6%, contrasting with a 3.5% decline in the industry [7]. Industry Comparisons - Other better-ranked stocks in the industry include UGI Corporation, Southwest Gas, and New Jersey Resources, all currently rated Zacks Rank 2 (Buy) [8]. - UGI has a long-term earnings growth rate of 4.8% with an average earnings surprise of 74.82% over the last four quarters [8]. - Southwest Gas has a long-term earnings growth rate of 6.6%, with a Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 EPS indicating a 17.1% improvement [9]. - New Jersey Resources has a fiscal 2025 EPS estimate showing a 7.5% improvement, with revenues projected at $1.84 billion, reflecting a 2.5% rise [9].