Industry Overview - The natural gas distribution industry is experiencing rising demand due to the clean-burning nature of natural gas, which is essential for transporting gas from production regions to consumers across the U.S. [1][3] - The U.S. has a substantial natural gas reserve of 3,353 trillion cubic feet and a pipeline network of 2.5 million miles [4]. Key Trends - The shale revolution has significantly increased natural gas production, leading to higher demand from various customer groups [3]. - The industry faces challenges from aging infrastructure, with many pipelines nearing the end of their effective service life, raising safety and maintenance concerns [6]. - Competition from other clean energy sources is increasing, as renewable energy projects become more affordable and reliable, potentially impacting the demand for natural gas [5]. Financial Insights - The Zacks Utility Gas Distribution industry currently ranks 149 out of 243 Zacks industries, indicating weak near-term prospects, with a negative earnings outlook as earnings estimates for 2025 have decreased by 7.7% since December 31, 2024 [10][11]. - The Gas Distribution industry has underperformed compared to the S&P 500 and the Utility sector, with an 8.5% gain over the past year compared to 14.5% for the Utility sector and 16.1% for the S&P 500 [12]. Valuation Metrics - The industry is trading at a trailing 12-month EV/EBITDA ratio of 10.35X, which is lower than the Zacks S&P 500 composite's 18.77X and the sector's 15.27X [13]. Company Highlights - **Atmos Energy Corp.**: Plans to invest $3.6 billion in fiscal 2026 to enhance infrastructure and replace old pipelines, with a current dividend yield of 2.4% and long-term earnings growth projected at 7.98% [15][16]. - **Brookfield Infrastructure Corp.**: Engaged in natural gas and electricity supply, recently signed a $5 billion deal with Bloom Energy and a $20 billion partnership with Qai, with a dividend yield of 3.68% and significant earnings growth estimates [17][18]. - **Spire Inc.**: Focused on organic expansion through infrastructure investments, plans to invest approximately $809 million in fiscal 2026, with a dividend yield of 3.82% and long-term earnings growth estimated at 10.54% [19][20].