Tuesday, Mizuho reaffirmed its Outperform rating on Xcel Energy (NASDAQ:XEL) with an unchanged price target of $64.00. The firm highlighted the stock's current trading at approximately a 9% price-to-earnings (P/E) discount compared to the electric utilities group. Mizuho believes that Xcel Energy's stock has the potential to align with the group average P/E multiple as the company advances its regulatory strategy.
On the previous Friday, Xcel Energy's subsidiary, Public Service Company of Colorado (PSCo), submitted a wildfire mitigation plan. This plan includes a request to recover costs totaling $1.9 billion. Out of this, $1.6 billion is projected as capital investments. Should regulators approve the plan, this capital expenditure would be an addition to Xcel's previously outlined "incremental" capital plans.
Furthermore, Xcel Energy's Northern States Power-Minnesota (NSP-MN) has recently reached a settlement in its natural gas rate case, which represents about 3% of its rate base. This settlement is a part of the ongoing regulatory developments that could impact the company's financial performance.
Mizuho's analysis indicates confidence in Xcel Energy's ability to execute on its regulatory strategy and capital investment plans. The firm's price target of $64 remains steadfast, suggesting a positive outlook for the stock's future performance. The analyst's comments and ratings provide investors with an updated perspective on Xcel Energy's market position and potential for growth.
In other recent news, Xcel Energy has announced a comprehensive Wildfire Mitigation Plan, valued at approximately $1.9 billion. The plan, set to span from 2025 to 2027, includes investments in situational awareness, operational mitigations, system resiliency, and customer support. Furthermore, Xcel Energy has reached a settlement in its Minnesota natural gas rate case, resulting in a 7.5% rate increase, equating to an additional $46 million in annual revenue.
The company has confirmed that this settlement will not impact its 2024 earnings guidance, with projected earnings ranging between $3.50 and $3.60 per share. Following the release of its first-quarter financial results, Xcel Energy has been the subject of several analyst reviews.
Firms such as BMO Capital Markets and BofA Securities have increased their price targets for Xcel Energy shares, while KeyBanc Capital Markets maintained an Overweight rating. In response to recent wildfires, Xcel Energy has implemented preventive power shutoffs and accelerated inspections and replacements of poles as part of their wildfire risk reduction initiatives.
InvestingPro Insights
As Mizuho stands firm on its positive outlook for Xcel Energy (NASDAQ:XEL), investors may find additional context through real-time data and insights from InvestingPro. Xcel Energy's market capitalization is currently $29.13 billion, with a P/E ratio of 15.71, which is slightly below the adjusted P/E ratio for the last twelve months as of Q1 2024, standing at 15.03. This aligns with Mizuho's note on the stock trading at a discount to the electric utilities group. The company's dividend yield as of the latest data is attractive at 4.18%, underscoring Xcel Energy's track record of raising its dividend for 20 consecutive years, and maintaining payments for 53 consecutive years, which is a testament to its financial resilience and commitment to shareholder returns.
InvestingPro Tips also indicate that while Xel Energy operates with a significant debt burden, analysts predict the company will be profitable this year, having been profitable over the last twelve months. The stock's low price volatility could appeal to investors seeking stability. For those looking to delve deeper into Xcel Energy's financials and future outlook, InvestingPro offers additional tips and metrics. Use coupon code PRONEWS24 to get up to 10% off a yearly Pro and a yearly or biyearly Pro+ subscription, and gain access to an extensive array of tips, with 5 more detailed insights currently available on InvestingPro.
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