How Is FirstEnergy's Stock Performance Compared to Other Utilities Stocks?

Core Viewpoint - FirstEnergy Corp. is a leading diversified energy company with a market cap of $24.9 billion, generating, transmitting, and distributing electricity across several states in the U.S. [1] Company Overview - FirstEnergy operates through Regulated Distribution, Regulated Transmission, and Other segments, serving customers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, West Virginia, Maryland, and New York [1] - The company is classified as a "large-cap" stock, with a diverse energy portfolio that includes coal, nuclear, hydroelectric, wind, and solar facilities, supported by over 252,000 miles of distribution lines and 24,000 miles of transmission infrastructure [2] Stock Performance - Shares of FirstEnergy have decreased by 2.3% from their 52-week high of $44.58, but have risen 9.6% over the past three months, outperforming the Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLU), which increased by 5.8% during the same period [3] - Year-to-date, FirstEnergy shares have gained 9.5%, lagging behind XLU's 12.3% increase, and have slightly declined over the past 52 weeks compared to XLU's 7.5% return [4] Financial Results - Following Q2 2025 results, FirstEnergy shares rose 2.2% as adjusted EPS of $0.52 exceeded consensus estimates, showing year-over-year growth despite weather-related demand softness [5] - Operating income increased by 52.7% to $646 million, while operating expenses declined by 4.5% to $2.73 billion, which helped offset slightly weaker-than-expected revenues of $3.38 billion [5] Future Outlook - Management has reaffirmed 2025 EPS guidance of $2.40 - $2.60 and a long-term earnings growth rate of 6% - 8%, supported by a robust $28 billion capital investment plan through 2029 [6] - Despite underperformance relative to peers like The Southern Company, analysts maintain a moderately optimistic outlook with a consensus rating of "Moderate Buy" and a mean price target of $45.92, representing a 5.7% premium to current levels [7]