Underground power lines installed ahead of schedule, with all Greater Houston Resiliency Initiative (GHRI) Phase Two resiliency actions on track to be completed by June 1 Historic suite of GHRI actions will improve system resiliency and reliability, resulting in the reduction of more than 125 million outage minutes annuallyHOUSTON, May 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As part of its commitment to build the most resilient coastal grid in the country, CenterPoint Energy announced that it has installed 400 miles of und ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported adjusted earnings per share of $1.76 for the first quarter of 2025, a 22% increase compared to the first quarter of 2024, driven by top line growth across electric and gas utilities [5][14] - The company reaffirmed its 2025 earnings guidance range of $6.17 to $6.42 and a long-term EPS growth rate of 5% to 7% through 2029 [6][22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Electric Utilities and Infrastructure segment saw an increase of $0.33 compared to last year, driven by higher sales volumes, improved weather, and new rates [14] - Gas Utilities and Infrastructure results were up $0.08 compared to last year, primarily due to new rates at Piedmont, North Carolina [14] - The Other segment experienced a decrease of $0.08, mainly due to higher interest expenses [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Weather-normalized volumes increased by 1.8% compared to last year, aligning with the full-year projection of 1.5% to 2% [15] - Residential volumes rose over 3% in the quarter, reflecting customer growth and higher usage [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on meeting growing energy demands through new generation and enhancing existing generation, including extending the operating license for the Oconee nuclear station for an additional twenty years [6][7] - A strategic partnership with GE Vernova was announced to secure up to 19 natural gas turbines, aimed at timely delivery of critical infrastructure [10] - The company plans to file a merger application for its DC and DEP utilities later this year, which is expected to create significant customer savings and operational flexibility [11][52] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's outlook, citing strong fundamentals and visibility to growth for years to come [12][13] - The company anticipates load growth to accelerate beginning in 2027 as economic development projects come online [16] - Management noted a cautious stance among industrial customers due to economic and policy uncertainties, but no immediate changes to production schedules were observed [61] Other Important Information - The company invested over $3 billion in capital during the quarter and is on track for $15 billion for the full year [20] - The impact of tariffs on the capital plan is estimated to be about 1% to 3% over five years, with confidence in minimizing this impact [21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Incremental CapEx opportunities - Management indicated that updates on capital expenditures will be provided in February, with a stable and growing investment pipeline [28][30] Question: Specificity around credit metrics - Management plans to provide more defined targeted ranges for credit metrics in the next cycle in February [33] Question: Cadence of adding signed deals - Management confirmed that the one gigawatt signed is part of a robust pipeline and is being actively worked through the process [40] Question: Financial implications of the merger - The merger is expected to generate over a billion dollars in savings for customers, focusing on operational efficiencies and reduced regulatory proceedings [51][52] Question: Size of one gigawatt signing - The one gigawatt signing involves two customers [55] Question: Outlook on tax credits and renewables - Management emphasized the importance of nuclear tax credits and their role in reducing customer bills, while advocating for their transferability [60] Question: Impact of economic uncertainty on industrial customers - Management noted a cautious stance among industrial customers but no immediate changes to their production schedules [61]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported adjusted earnings per share of $1.76 for the first quarter of 2025, a 22% increase compared to the first quarter of 2024, driven by top line growth across electric and gas utilities [5][14] - The company reaffirmed its 2025 earnings guidance range of $6.17 to $6.42 and a long-term EPS growth rate of 5% to 7% through 2029 [6][21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Electric Utilities and Infrastructure segment saw an increase of $0.33 compared to last year, driven by higher sales volumes, improved weather, and new rates [14] - Gas Utilities and Infrastructure results were up $0.08 compared to last year, primarily due to new rates at Piedmont, North Carolina [14] - The Other segment experienced a decrease of $0.08, mainly due to higher interest expenses [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Weather-normalized volumes increased by 1.8% compared to last year, aligning with the full-year projection of 1.5% to 2% [15] - Residential volumes rose over 3% in the quarter, reflecting customer growth and higher usage [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on meeting growing energy demands through new generation and enhancing existing generation, including extending the operating license for the Oconee nuclear station for an additional twenty years [6][7] - A strategic partnership with GE Vernova was announced to secure up to 19 natural gas turbines, aimed at timely delivery of critical infrastructure [10] - The company plans to file a merger application for its DC and DEP utilities, expected to create significant customer savings and operational efficiencies [11][50] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's outlook, citing strong fundamentals and visibility to growth for years to come [12][13] - The company anticipates load growth to accelerate beginning in 2027 as economic development projects come online [16] - Management noted a cautious stance among industrial customers due to economic and policy uncertainties, but no immediate changes in production schedules were observed [59] Other Important Information - The company invested over $3 billion in capital during the quarter and is on track for $15 billion for the full year [20] - The impact of tariffs on the capital plan is estimated to be about 1% to 3% over five years, with confidence in minimizing this impact [21] Q&A Session Summary Question: Incremental CapEx opportunities and guidance - Management indicated that updates on capital expenditures will be provided during the annual cycle in February, with a focus on a stable and growing pipeline of investment opportunities [26][28] Question: Specificity around credit metrics - Management acknowledged ongoing discussions about improving credit profiles and indicated that more defined target ranges would be provided in the next cycle in February [31][33] Question: Cadence of load growth and data center deals - Management confirmed that the pipeline remains robust, with a recent signing of one gigawatt of data center projects, which was anticipated in their plans [38][40] Question: Financial implications of the merger - Management highlighted that the merger of DC and DEP utilities could generate over a billion dollars in savings for customers, focusing on operational efficiencies and reduced regulatory proceedings [48][50] Question: Outlook on tax credits and renewables - Management emphasized the importance of nuclear tax credits in reducing customer bills and expressed support for ongoing advocacy in Washington regarding energy credits [57][58] Question: Impact of economic uncertainty on industrial customers - Management reported no immediate changes in production schedules from industrial customers but noted a cautious stance due to tariff policy uncertainties [59][60]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For the second quarter of fiscal 2025, the company reported an NFEPS of $1.78 per share, an increase from $1.41 per share in the previous year, reflecting improved performance across various segments [22][10][12] - The fiscal 2025 NFEPS guidance has been raised by $0.10 to a revised range of $3.15 to $3.30 per share, exceeding the long-term growth target of 7% to 9% [10][12][30] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - New Jersey Natural Gas showed higher utility gross margin due to a recent base rate case settlement, contributing significantly to the overall NFE [22][11] - Clean Energy Ventures reported higher NFE driven by the sale of its residential solar portfolio, which is expected to generate a net benefit of approximately $0.30 per share for fiscal 2025 [22][23] - The storage and transportation segment improved performance, particularly at Leaf River, contributing to higher revenues [22][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company continues to see consistent customer growth in New Jersey Natural Gas, driven by new construction and system expansions, with a customer base predominantly residential [14][60] - The company has invested $254 million in New Jersey Natural Gas this year, with 46% of that CapEx providing near real-time returns [16][15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company emphasizes disciplined capital deployment, operational excellence, and strategic innovation across all business segments to ensure long-term sustainable growth [9][10] - The Clean Energy Ventures segment is diversifying its project pipeline, with a focus on avoiding overreliance on any single market or policy regime [19][20] - The company is proactive in managing energy affordability through various programs, including BGSS incentive programs, which have saved customers nearly $800 million over the last ten years [15][16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted that the current macroeconomic environment, particularly regarding tariffs, is being monitored closely, with minimal expected impact on operations due to domestic sourcing of materials [26][27][29] - The company remains well-positioned for sustained long-term growth, supported by a strong balance sheet and liquidity [29][30] Other Important Information - The company plans capital expenditures ranging from $1.3 billion to $1.6 billion for fiscal 2025 and 2026, aligning with its long-term growth targets [23][24] - The adjusted funds from operations to adjusted debt ratio is projected to range between 19% to 21% for fiscal 2025, maintaining financial flexibility [24] Q&A Session Summary Question: Timing and capital requirements for Leaf River expansion - Management indicated that the total capital costs for the Leaf River expansion are estimated between $175 million to $200 million, with no finite timeline set for advancing the project [34] Question: Cost exposure to tariffs for Clean Energy Ventures - Management acknowledged the fluid situation regarding tariffs but emphasized that existing contractual protections should mitigate potential impacts on project costs [37][38] Question: Expected economics of Leaf River compared to existing caverns - Management stated that the decision to build will depend on securing appropriate returns and contracts, with a focus on ensuring a clear understanding of construction costs [47] Question: Regulatory environment and affordability initiatives - Management expressed confidence in the regulatory environment following the completion of recent rate cases and highlighted ongoing efforts to maintain affordability for customers [50][52] Question: Customer growth fundamentals - Management noted that customer growth is driven by a strong service territory with high per capita income and ongoing energy efficiency programs [60][61] Question: Focus on the Energy Master Plan - Management mentioned that comments have been submitted regarding the Energy Master Plan, with expectations of a new plan following the gubernatorial election [66]

This presentation contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These statements give the current expectations of the Company's management. Words such as "anticipates", "believes", "could", "estimates", "expects", "intends", "may", "plans", "potential", "predicts", "projects", "should", "will", "would" and similar expressions are used to identify forward-looking statements. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, forward-looking statements contained in this ...

New AI capabilities in the Oracle Utilities Customer Platform help call centers better manage volume and quickly deliver smart, personalized assistance In addition to natively embedding AI in SaaS offerings, on-premises customers can also benefit by accessing these innovations via a rich set of APIs. Next, Oracle plans to equip agents with AI-generated customer snapshots before calls start, helping speed resolution and improve the customer connection. In addition, Oracle plans to add full call transcripts t ...

Core Insights - The S&P 500 index offers a low dividend yield of 1.3%, while companies like NextEra Energy, Chevron, and Enbridge provide significantly higher yields, with Enbridge at 5.8% [1] NextEra Energy - NextEra Energy has a current dividend yield of approximately 3.3%, more than double that of the S&P 500 index, and has increased its dividend annually for 30 years [2] - The company boasts an annualized dividend growth rate of 10% over the past decade, with management projecting this growth to continue [2][3] - NextEra operates a regulated utility in Florida and has a growing clean energy business, positioning it well for future growth in the clean power sector [3] Chevron - Chevron offers a dividend yield of 5%, having increased its dividend for 38 consecutive years, with growth rates surpassing inflation over the past decade [5] - As an integrated energy company, Chevron operates across exploration, transportation, and refining, which helps mitigate the volatility associated with commodity prices [6][7] - The company maintains a strong balance sheet, allowing it to support its business and dividend even during downturns in the energy market [7] Enbridge - Enbridge has the highest dividend yield on the list at 5.8%, with a history of increasing dividends for 30 consecutive years [8] - The company focuses on energy transportation through its North American midstream network, providing stable cash flows regardless of oil and natural gas prices [8][10] - Enbridge is also investing in cleaner energy options, including natural gas utilities and renewable energy projects like solar and wind farms [9][10] Investment Opportunities - Despite a low dividend environment in the broader market, attractive high-yield stocks like NextEra Energy, Chevron, and Enbridge present solid investment opportunities for dividend-focused investors [11]

Investment Rating - The report maintains a positive outlook on the market with a base case index target for MXCN at 67 by the end of 2025, with a preference for sectors such as Energy, IT, and Utilities [36][38]. Core Insights - The report indicates a recovery in the MXCN index, driven by sectors like IT and Healthcare, with expectations of a market reversal by late January 2025 [9][11]. - The report highlights a cautious approach towards Consumer Discretionary and Staples, recommending a rotation into quality laggards and large caps over small and mid-caps [36][38]. - The anticipated GDP growth for China in 2025 is projected at 4.1%, slightly below the consensus of 4.2% [10]. Market & Sector Performance - MXCN sectors performance shows Consumer Discretionary up by 3.2% week-on-week, while Information Technology leads with an 8.3% increase [6]. - The MSCI China index has shown a year-to-date increase of 9.0%, with a notable recovery in sectors impacted by US tariffs [7][12]. Catalyst Calendar - The report outlines key upcoming macroeconomic indicators and sector-specific data releases, including PMIs and housing transactions, which could influence market movements [14]. Consensus Macro Forecasts - The consensus forecasts for China's GDP growth in 2025 are 5.1% for Q1, declining to 3.9% by Q4, indicating a gradual slowdown [16]. Index Targets - The MSCI-China index target for 2025 is set at 71, with a bull case of 80 and a bear case of 70, reflecting a potential upside of 13% from current levels [18]. - The CSI-300 index target for 2025 is projected at 3,787, with a bull case of 4,150, indicating a 10% upside potential [19]. Investment Recommendations - The report recommends overweight positions in Energy, IT, and Utilities, while advising underweight positions in Consumer Discretionary, Materials, and Staples [39]. - A barbell strategy is suggested, focusing on high-yielders and selected thematic plays in Internet and AI sectors [36][38]. Trading Statistics - Recent trading statistics indicate a net outflow of US$796 million from China equities, primarily driven by passive fund outflows, although there has been a positive development with resumed offshore ETF inflows [79][80].

Historic series of grid improvements and generator donations continue across the Greater Houston area to strengthen resiliency and reduce risk of outages during stormsJoint emergency response exercise and community safety and preparedness events being held with emergency officials and local partnersCenterPoint conducting outreach efforts across Greater Houston service area to help customers prepare for upcoming storm seasonHOUSTON, May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As part of the official launch of National Hurri ...

Core Insights - Zacks Premium offers various tools for investors to enhance their stock market engagement and confidence [1] - The Zacks Style Scores serve as complementary indicators to the Zacks Rank, aiding in stock selection with high potential for market outperformance [2] Zacks Style Scores Overview - The Style Scores categorize stocks based on value, growth, and momentum characteristics, assigning ratings from A to F, with A indicating the highest potential for outperformance [3] - The Value Score identifies attractive stocks using financial ratios like P/E and Price/Sales, appealing to value investors [3] - The Growth Score focuses on a company's financial health and future outlook, analyzing projected earnings and sales for sustainable growth [4] - The Momentum Score helps investors capitalize on price trends, utilizing metrics like one-week price changes and monthly earnings estimate changes [5] - The VGM Score combines the three Style Scores, providing a comprehensive rating based on value, growth, and momentum [6] Zacks Rank and Style Scores Interaction - The Zacks Rank, based on earnings estimate revisions, is a successful stock-rating model, with 1 (Strong Buy) stocks achieving an average annual return of +25.41% since 1988, significantly outperforming the S&P 500 [7][8] - To maximize returns, investors should focus on stocks with a Zacks Rank of 1 or 2 that also have Style Scores of A or B [9] - Stocks with lower ranks (3 Hold, 4 Sell, 5 Strong Sell) should still have high Style Scores to ensure potential upside [10] Company Spotlight: DTE Energy - DTE Energy, based in Detroit, is a diversified energy company with major subsidiaries in electric and gas services [11] - Currently rated 3 (Hold) with a VGM Score of A, DTE is positioned as a potential growth investment [11] - The company forecasts a year-over-year earnings growth of 6% for the current fiscal year, with upward revisions in earnings estimates from analysts [12] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for DTE's earnings has increased by $0.02 to $7.24 per share, with an average earnings surprise of 11.8% [12]