Atmos Energy (US:ATO)2026-02-04 15:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a net income of $403 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2026, translating to $2.44 per diluted share, which is a 9.4% increase compared to the prior year quarter [4][10] - Capital expenditures for the first quarter totaled $1 billion, with over 85% focused on enhancing safety and reliability [4][5] - The rebased fiscal 2026 earnings per share guidance is set in the range of $8.15-$8.35 per share [4][14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Atmos Pipeline-Texas division completed significant projects, including the installation of approximately 55 miles of pipeline and enhancements to the Bethel Salt Dome storage facility [5][6] - Rate increases across operating segments contributed an additional $68 million to operating income [10] - APT's through system revenues, net of Rider REV, increased by about $7 million, although through system volumes declined by approximately 2 Bcf due to maintenance [10][11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company added nearly 54,000 new customers over the 12 months ending December 31, 2025, with 42,000 in Texas [7] - Customer satisfaction ratings reached 98% for the quarter, and Atmos Energy was recognized for customer satisfaction in the South and Midwest regions [8][9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to focus on system modernization and safety, aiming to be the safest provider of natural gas services [3] - The strategy includes significant capital investments, with a planned capital spending of $4.2 billion for fiscal 2026 [14] - The company is actively engaging in regulatory discussions regarding affordability and reliability, emphasizing the importance of investments for system performance [32] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving the rebased earnings guidance and highlighted the positive impact of recent projects and customer growth [10][14] - The company noted that the recent Winter Storm Fern had minimal impact on supply and operational performance compared to previous storms [24] Other Important Information - The company has $4.6 billion in available liquidity, including $1.1 billion in net proceeds from existing forward sale agreements [13][14] - The company is pursuing additional regulatory filings for annualized operating income increases, seeking approximately $400 million [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Discussion on the $35 million benefit for the quarter - Management indicated that the benefit will be influenced by spending timing and operational activities, maintaining guidance of $8.15-$8.35 per share [16][17] Question: Financial impacts from Winter Storm Fern - Management stated that the storm's impact was not as significant as previous storms, with minimal supply issues and effective gas supply plans in place [23][24] Question: Affordability pressures in regulatory proceedings - Management confirmed that affordability is a continuous topic with regulators, who understand the need for investment to maintain reliability [31][32] Question: Opportunities in gas power and storage - Management noted ongoing inquiries for large loads and power generation, with evaluations for potential gas storage needs post-winter [55][56] Question: Impact of recent political changes in Texas - Management emphasized an apolitical stance, focusing on collaboration with all stakeholders to promote the importance of natural gas [38][39] Question: Mississippi rate case outcomes - Management indicated that the plan remains unchanged, focusing on safety and reliability investments regardless of regulatory outcomes [40][41]