Core Viewpoint - Vistra Corp. is recognized as one of the top 10 stocks to buy on the NYSE according to analysts, following its announcement of acquiring Cogentrix Energy for approximately $4 billion [1]. Group 1: Acquisition Details - The acquisition includes 10 modern natural gas generation facilities with a total capacity of around 5,500 megawatts [2]. - The deal is expected to close in mid-to-late 2026 [2]. Group 2: Financial Projections - BMO Capital has raised its adjusted EBITDA forecasts for Vistra Corp. to $8.204 billion in 2027, $8.334 billion in 2028, and $8.510 billion in 2029 [2]. - KeyBanc anticipates the transaction will deliver mid-single-digit accretion in 2027, with average accretion reaching high-single-digit levels from 2027 to 2029 [3]. Group 3: Analyst Ratings - BMO Capital reduced its price target for Vistra Corp. from $245 to $230 but maintained an Outperform rating [1]. - KeyBanc reaffirmed its Overweight rating on Vistra Corp. with a price target of $217 following the acquisition announcement [3]. Group 4: Company Overview - Vistra Corp. operates as a retail electricity and power generation company, serving customers, businesses, and communities with a diverse portfolio that includes natural gas, nuclear, coal, solar, and battery energy storage facilities [4].

Core Insights - Vistra Corp. (NYSE:VST) is recognized as one of the best long-term stock investments in the U.S. market [1] - KeyBanc initiated coverage on Vistra with an Overweight rating and a price target of $217, citing the company's scale, diversified generation mix, and strong cash flow as key strengths [2] - S&P Global upgraded Vistra's long-term credit rating to BBB- from BB+, highlighting improvements in the company's risk profile due to strategic acquisitions and strong hedging practices [4] Company Developments - Vistra is expanding its energy footprint by acquiring seven natural gas plants and planning to build two new natural gas power units, adding 860 MW of capacity in West Texas [3] - The company is expected to benefit from increasing electrification and demand from hyperscale data centers, supported by favorable policies [2] Financial Strength - KeyBanc emphasized Vistra's strong cash flow and resilience in a tightening U.S. power market, which provides growth optionality [2] - The upgrade from S&P Global reflects the company's improved risk profile, attributed to a nuclear power sales deal and the acquisition of natural gas assets [4]