Core Viewpoint - The article highlights three companies known as "Dividend Champions," which have a long history of increasing dividends, making them attractive for income investors as interest rates are expected to decline in the future [3]. Group 1: Royal Gold - Royal Gold, based in Denver, Colorado, has a dividend yield of 0.77% and has raised its dividend every year since July 2000, with a total increase of 58.3% since 2021, outpacing the 19% inflation during the same period [4][5][6]. - The company has maintained its dividend growth even during periods of declining gold prices, such as from 2012 to 2020, when its dividend increased by 87% despite gold prices falling [6][8]. - Royal Gold's business model involves acquiring royalty interests in various metals, allowing it to sustain dividend increases regardless of gold price fluctuations [7][8]. Group 2: York Water - York Water, a Pennsylvania-based water utility, has announced its 29th annual dividend hike, maintaining a record of 620 consecutive payouts since 1816, which is believed to be a record for American companies [9][10]. - The company's recent dividend increase of 4% in 2025 is above the 2.7% inflation rate, and since 2021, it has raised its dividend by 22%, demonstrating its ability to keep pace with inflation [10]. - With a payout ratio of just 63%, York Water's dividend appears sustainable, as its earnings are growing faster than its payouts [12]. Group 3: Caterpillar - Caterpillar, a leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, has increased its dividend for 31 consecutive years, including a 7% increase announced last June [13][14]. - The company's dividend has grown by 46.6% since 2021, significantly outpacing inflation, and its long-term track record shows that payouts have tripled over the last 25 years [14][16]. - Caterpillar's resilience is evident as it continued to increase dividends during economic downturns, such as the Financial Crisis and the pandemic, showcasing management's commitment to rewarding shareholders [16][17].

Core Viewpoint - Northwest Natural Holding Company (NW Natural Holdings) will release its fourth quarter and full year 2025 earnings on February 27, 2026, at 8 a.m. Pacific Time [1] Company Overview - NW Natural Holdings is headquartered in Portland, Oregon, and has been in operation for over 167 years, owning several subsidiaries including NW Natural Gas Company, SiEnergy Operating, NW Natural Water Company, and NW Natural Renewables [2][3] - The company provides essential energy, water, and wastewater services to over one million meters across seven states, emphasizing safety, environmental stewardship, and community care [3] Subsidiary Operations - NW Natural Gas Utility serves approximately 2 million people through about 806,000 meters in Oregon and Southwest Washington, featuring a modern pipeline system and 21.6 Bcf of underground gas storage capacity [4] - SiEnergy Gas Utility is one of the fastest-growing natural gas distribution utilities in the U.S., serving around 87,000 meters in the metropolitan areas of Houston, Dallas, and Austin, Texas [5] - NWN Water Utility provides water distribution and wastewater services to an estimated 197,000 people through approximately 79,000 meters, along with operation and maintenance services to an additional 38,000 connections across the Pacific Northwest, Texas, Arizona, and California [6] Commitment to Ethics and Customer Satisfaction - NW Natural Holdings has been recognized as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for four consecutive years by Ethisphere, and consistently achieves high customer satisfaction scores according to J.D. Power & Associates [3]

Core Viewpoint - Northwest Natural Holding Company has declared a quarterly dividend of 49.25 cents per share, with an annual dividend rate of $1.97 per share, reflecting its commitment to returning value to shareholders [1]. Group 1: Company Overview - Northwest Natural Holding Company is headquartered in Portland, Oregon, and has been in operation for over 167 years, owning several subsidiaries including NW Natural Gas Company, SiEnergy Operating, NW Natural Water Company, and NW Natural Renewables [1]. - The company provides critical energy and essential water and wastewater services to over one million meters across seven states, emphasizing safety, environmental stewardship, and community care [2]. Group 2: Utility Services - NW Natural Gas Utility serves approximately 2 million people in over 140 communities through about 806,000 meters in Oregon and Southwest Washington, boasting one of the most modern pipeline systems in the nation and 21.6 Bcf of underground gas storage capacity [3]. - SiEnergy Gas Utility is one of the fastest-growing natural gas distribution utilities in the U.S., serving around 87,000 meters in the metropolitan areas of Houston, Dallas, and Austin, Texas [4]. - NWN Water Utility provides water distribution and wastewater services to communities in the Pacific Northwest, Texas, Arizona, and California, serving an estimated 197,000 people through approximately 79,000 meters and managing an additional 38,000 connections [5]. Group 3: Commitment to Ethics and Customer Satisfaction - NW Natural Holdings has been recognized by Ethisphere® as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies® for four consecutive years, highlighting its commitment to ethical business practices [2]. - The company consistently achieves high customer satisfaction scores as reported by J.D. Power & Associates, indicating strong performance in customer service [2].

Core Viewpoint - New Jersey American Water and The Watershed Institute emphasize the environmental risks associated with excessive winter salt use, urging responsible practices to protect waterways and wildlife [1][2][3]. Environmental Impact - Excessive road salt use leads to increased sodium and chloride levels in drinking water sources, which can disrupt aquatic ecosystems and pose challenges for water treatment systems [2][3]. - High salt levels can persist year-round, especially under drought conditions, harming aquatic life and promoting harmful algal blooms during summer months [3]. Awareness Initiatives - Winter Salt Week 2026, scheduled for January 26-30, aims to promote responsible salt use through education and community engagement, highlighting that safety and sustainability can coexist [4]. - The initiative is supported by Wisconsin Salt Wise in collaboration with utilities, regulators, and environmental organizations [4]. Practical Steps for Salt Use - Residents and municipalities are encouraged to adopt simple, cost-effective practices to minimize environmental impacts while ensuring safety, such as: - Clearing snow before it turns to ice to reduce de-icing needs [7]. - Using only the necessary amount of salt, with a 12-ounce coffee mug holding enough for a 20-foot driveway [7]. - Efficiently spreading salt and sweeping up excess to prevent runoff [7]. - Switching to liquid brine, which can reduce salt application by 30-50% [7]. - Reevaluating snow-removal contracts to focus on area cleared rather than salt applied [7]. Company Information - New Jersey American Water is the largest regulated water utility in New Jersey, serving approximately 2.9 million people with safe and reliable water and wastewater services [6]. - The Watershed Institute is dedicated to protecting and restoring water quality in New Jersey through conservation and advocacy efforts [8].

Core Insights - Iowa American Water emphasizes the importance of water conservation and offers practical tips for customers to save money, water, and time in 2026 [2][3] - The company invested over $50 million in system upgrades in 2025 to enhance water and wastewater infrastructure, reducing leaks and improving efficiency [2] Company Overview - American Water is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States, serving over 14 million people across 14 states and 18 military installations [5] - Iowa American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, is the largest regulated water utility in Iowa, providing services to approximately 227,000 people [8] Customer Engagement - Customers are encouraged to enroll in Auto Pay and paperless billing to save time and manage their accounts more efficiently [3][6] - The MyWater account allows customers to access an interactive Customer Advisory Map for alerts and to update their contact information for emergency notifications [3][4] Water Conservation Tips - Recommendations include running dishwashers and clothes washers only when full, using low-flow fixtures, and checking for leaks [6] - Outdoor water conservation strategies involve using drip irrigation, watering during cooler times, and disconnecting hoses when not in use [6]

Core Insights - American Water emphasizes the importance of water conservation and offers tips for customers to save money, water, and time while staying informed about their services [1][2]. Investment and Infrastructure - Over the next decade, American Water plans to invest between $46 billion and $48 billion in system upgrades to enhance water and wastewater infrastructure, aiming to reduce leaks and improve efficiency and resiliency [2]. Water Conservation Tips - The company provides various household tips for conserving water, including using water wisely indoors, protecting pipes, and conserving water outdoors during the watering season [3][6]. - Technologies such as acoustic leak monitoring, drones, and smart metering are employed to detect leaks and monitor water usage, showcasing the value of infrastructure investments [3]. Customer Engagement and Services - Customers can save time by enrolling in Auto Pay and paperless billing through their MyWater account, which also allows them to stay informed via an interactive Customer Advisory Map for alerts [4][7]. - Non-account holders can access alerts and report emergencies through the company's website [5]. Company Overview - American Water is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the U.S., serving over 14 million people across 14 states and 18 military installations, with a history dating back to 1886 [8].

MWC unified rate structure agreement with the Office of the Maine Public Advocate approved by the Maine Public Utilities CommissionSets comparable rates for service across communities MWC servesCreates administrative efficiencies - reduces administrative and regulatory burden which benefits customersCreates the Water Residential Assistance Program for income eligible customers BIDDEFORD, Maine, Jan. 15, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Maine Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) approved a stipulation agreement be ...

Core Viewpoint - Pure Cycle Corporation has appointed Daniel J. Roller as an independent director, expanding its Board from 7 to 8 members, which aims to enhance the Board's capabilities and strategic direction [1][2] Group 1: Board Appointment - Daniel J. Roller, President of Maran Capital Management, has been appointed to the Board of Directors effective January 14, 2026 [1] - The appointment was made in collaboration with Maran Capital Management, which owns approximately 14.7% of Pure Cycle's common shares [1][2] - A new Strategy and Capital Allocation Committee will be formed, chaired by Mr. Roller, to optimize the company's strategy and capital allocation [1][2] Group 2: Company Overview - Pure Cycle operates as a vertically integrated wholesale water and wastewater service provider, with three distinct business segments that complement each other [4] - The company launched its land development segment in 2017, focusing on developing master-planned communities while providing water and wastewater services [4] - In 2021, Pure Cycle introduced a rental business for single-family homes at Sky Ranch, which generates long-term recurring revenues and supports its land development operations [4] Group 3: Mr. Roller’s Background - Mr. Roller is the Founder, President, and Chief Investment Officer of Maran Capital Management, which focuses on long-term investments in small-cap companies [3] - He has over 20 years of experience in investment research and management, advising on M&A, capital allocation, corporate governance, and strategy [3] - Mr. Roller holds a B.S.E. in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from Duke University [3]

Core Insights - Grupo Rotoplas has received an "A" rating in CDP's 2025 Climate Change Questionnaire, placing it on the "A-List" which includes only 4% of assessed companies globally and just two companies in Mexico this year [1][2] - The company also achieved an "A-" rating in the Water Security Questionnaire, marking its highest scores to date [2] Company Overview - Grupo Rotoplas S.A.B. de C.V. is a leading provider of water solutions in the Americas, offering products and services for storing, piping, improving, treating, and recycling water [3] - The company has over 45 years of industry experience, operates 18 plants across the Americas, and is present in 14 countries with a portfolio of 27 product lines and an e-commerce business [3] - Grupo Rotoplas has been listed on the Mexican Stock Exchange (BMV) under the ticker "AGUA" since December 10, 2014 [3]

Core Insights - Kentucky American Water emphasizes the importance of water conservation for both environmental sustainability and cost savings for customers [2] - The company invested approximately $70 million in system upgrades in 2025 to enhance water infrastructure, reduce leaks, and improve efficiency [2] Water Conservation Tips - Customers are encouraged to use water wisely inside their homes by running dishwashers and clothes washers only when full and installing water-efficient appliances [6] - Outdoor water conservation tips include using drip irrigation, watering plants during cooler times of the day, and checking irrigation systems for leaks [6] Customer Engagement and Services - Kentucky American Water offers auto pay and paperless billing options to help customers save time and manage their bills effectively [3][6] - The MyWater account provides customers with an interactive advisory map to stay informed about water service alerts and emergencies [3][4] Company Overview - American Water, the parent company of Kentucky American Water, is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility in the U.S., serving over 14 million people across 14 states [5] - Kentucky American Water serves approximately 527,000 people, providing safe and reliable water and wastewater services [7]