This Utility Stock Is Up 22% in One Year: What a Fund's $7.6 Million Position Says About NWE's Outlook

Core Insights - Kintayl Capital has initiated a new position in NorthWestern Energy Group, acquiring 129,994 shares valued at approximately $7.6 million, representing 4.7% of the fund's reportable U.S. equity assets [2][7] - NorthWestern Energy Group's stock has increased by 22% over the past year, outperforming the S&P 500, which rose nearly 13% during the same period [3][10] Company Overview - NorthWestern Energy Group operates as a regulated utility, providing electricity and natural gas services across Montana, South Dakota, Nebraska, and Yellowstone National Park [6][9] - The company has a market capitalization of $4 billion, with a trailing twelve months (TTM) revenue of $1.6 billion and a net income of $217 million [4][10] Financial Performance - NorthWestern reported a GAAP EPS of $0.62 and an adjusted EPS of $0.79 for the third quarter, compared to $0.65 in the previous year, with utility margin increasing by double digits year over year [10] - The company has reaffirmed its 2025 earnings guidance of $3.53 to $3.65 per share, targeting a long-term EPS growth of 4% to 6% [10] Strategic Developments - NorthWestern is pursuing a $2.7 billion capital investment plan aimed at expanding its rate base and is navigating a pending all-stock merger with Black Hills Corporation, expected to close next year [10][11] - The company declared a quarterly dividend of $0.66, reflecting the stability that investors typically seek in utility stocks [10][11]