Alliant Energy Stock: Is LNT Underperforming the Utilities Sector?

Company Overview - Alliant Energy Corporation (LNT) is a utility holding company based in Madison, Wisconsin, providing regulated electricity and natural gas services, with a market cap of $16.8 billion [1]. Market Position - LNT is classified as a large-cap stock, emphasizing its size and influence in the regulated electric utility industry, and its focus on clean energy investments positions it for future growth [2]. Stock Performance - LNT's stock has experienced a decline of 6.3% from its 52-week high of $69.75, reached on October 24, while showing marginal gains over the past three months, aligning with the Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund's (XLU) performance [3][4]. - Over a six-month period, LNT shares rose by 6.2%, outperforming XLU's gains of 4.6%, but the stock only climbed 8% over the past 52 weeks, underperforming XLU's 10.4% returns [4]. Financial Results - For Q3, LNT reported an adjusted EPS of $1.12, a decrease of 2.6% year-over-year, with revenue of $1.2 billion, reflecting an increase of 11.9% year-over-year. The company anticipates a full-year adjusted EPS between $3.17 and $3.23 [5]. Competitive Landscape - LNT's competitor, Ameren Corporation (AEE), has shown marginal gains over six months but has outperformed LNT with an 8.3% increase over the past 52 weeks [6]. Analyst Sentiment - Wall Street analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" rating for LNT, with a consensus mean price target of $72.11, indicating a potential upside of 10.4% from current price levels [6].