Dean Capital Bets Big on Energy Delivery With a 28,000 Share Investment in Chesapeake Utilities (CPK) Worth $3.5 Million

Core Insights - Dean Capital Management disclosed a new position in Chesapeake Utilities Corporation, acquiring 27,851 shares valued at approximately $3.47 million as of February 20, 2026 [1][7] - Chesapeake Utilities' stock price was $134.39, reflecting an 11.1% increase over the past year, although it underperformed the S&P 500 by 1.87 percentage points [7] - The company is set to report its fourth-quarter results for 2025 on February 25, 2026, with expectations of continued profit growth [10] Company Overview - Chesapeake Utilities Corporation operates as a diversified energy delivery company, focusing on both regulated and unregulated utility services [5] - The company has a market capitalization of $3.18 billion and reported revenue of $886.15 million and net income of $130.85 million for the trailing twelve months [3] Financial Metrics - As of February 20, 2026, Chesapeake Utilities had a dividend yield of 2.0% [7] - The company's adjusted net income for the first nine months of the year increased by 10.1% year over year, reaching $4.03 per share, with adjusted earnings per share growing by 8.0% year over year [10] Business Strategy - Chesapeake Utilities leverages a balanced portfolio of natural gas, electric, and propane operations to serve a broad geographic area, including Delaware, Maryland, Florida, Ohio, and the Mid-Atlantic region [5][8] - The company generates revenue primarily from regulated utility operations, supplemented by unregulated energy services [8] Investment Position - Dean Capital's new position in Chesapeake Utilities represents 1.48% of its reportable U.S. equity assets under management, making it the 11th largest holding in the portfolio [7][9] - Dean Capital also increased its investment in Portland General Electric, indicating a broader strategy to invest in utility businesses [9]