FirstEnergy Corp., through its subsidiaries, generates, transmits, and distributes electricity in the United States. It operates through Regulated Distribution and Regulated Transmission segments. The company owns and operates coal-fired, nuclear, hydroelectric, wind, and solar power generating facilities. It operates 24,080 circuit miles of overhead and underground transmission lines; and electric distribution systems, including 274,518 miles of overhead pole line and underground conduit carrying primary, secondary, and street lighting circuits. The company serves approximately 6 million customers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, and New York. FirstEnergy Corp. was incorporated in 1996 and is headquartered in Akron, Ohio.

FirstEnergy appears to be a mature utility company with stable revenue, but without the clear fundamental acceleration that usually justifies a higher multiple. Its P/E ratio of 27x is 33.8% above the industry median, which looks expensive for a business with moderate earnings growth and weak margin momentum. Its P/B of 1.84x is also above the industry level, while its P/S is below the median, which partially softens the picture but does not offset the premium on earnings and capital. P/FCF is zero, which provides no solid basis for valuing free cash flow and increases uncertainty around the quality of cash generation. Returns on capital and assets are weaker than the industry: ROE, ROA, and ROI are all below the median, meaning the company is currently earning less on invested capital than its peers. At the same time, return on tangible equity is above the median, showing that the business does generate an acceptable return on its tangible asset base. Profit margin and operating margin are noticeably below industry benchmarks and have deteriorated from stronger levels seen in mid-last year, so operating efficiency looks average at best. Debt burden is high: debt/equity is above the median, long-term debt is rising, and the current ratio and quick ratio remain below 1, indicating limited short-term liquidity. Dividend yield is absent in the current data, whereas in previous periods it was around 1%, so the dividend argument is currently weaker for investors. On the other hand, revenue, gross profit, EBITDA, and net income remain positive in absolute terms and generally support the investment case. The balance sheet base also does not look weak: equity and assets are growing, which helps maintain financial stability. Overall, the fundamentals are rather neutral to slightly negative for a re-rating: the business is solid and large-scale, but expensive relative to current profitability and carries a significant debt burden. For investors, this means the upside in valuation is limited, and a moderately conservative approach to the target price appears more appropriate.

FirstEnergy Corp.

Сильный индекс, значительно упал. Быки в растерянности.

Strong index, significantly down. The bulls are confused.

Средний индекс, значительно вырос. Рынок на стороне быков.

Medium index, significantly up. The market is on the bulls' side.

Слабый индекс, незначительно вырос. Приток средств в лонги остается на невысоком уровне.

Weak index, slightly up. The inflow of funds into longs remains at a low level.

FE remains a stable utility story, but its high valuation, weak liquidity, and debt burden outweigh moderate revenue and profit growth.

The General Mills Board of Directors has declared a quarterly dividend at the prevailing rate of $0.61 per share, payable Nov. 2, 2026, to shareholders of record as of Oct. 13, 2026. General Mills and its predecessor company have paid dividends without interruption for 128 years.
The Board of Directors of FirstEnergy declared a quarterly dividend of 46.5 cents per share of outstanding common stock payable December 1, 2026, to shareholders of record at the close of business on November 6, 2026.
Mastercard announced that its Board of Directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of 87 cents per share. The cash dividend will be paid on November 9, 2026 to holders of record of its Class A common stock and Class B common stock as of October 9, 2026.
GE Vernova today announced that its Board of Directors has declared a $0.50 per share quarterly dividend. The quarterly dividend will be payable on November 24, 2026, to shareholders of record as of October 27, 2026.
Simon Griffiths, President and Chief Executive Officer of Camden National announced today that the board of directors of the Company declared a quarterly dividend of $0.42 per share. This quarterly payout results in an annualized dividend yield of 2.93% based on the September 28, 2026 closing price of the Company's common stock at $57.40 per share as reported by NASDAQ. The dividend is payable on October 30, 2026, to shareholders of record at the close of business on October 15, 2026.

Daily Dividend Report: GIS,FE,MA,GEV,CAC

IDACORP IDA is benefiting from systematic capital investments to expand generation capacity, strengthen transmission infrastructure and support rising electricity demand. These investments can increase Idaho Power’s ability to serve customers while supporting its regulated asset base.
Idaho Power expects to spend $1.3-$1.5 billion on capital expenditures in 2026, with total capital investments of about $7.1 billion planned through 2030, or an average of $1.42 billion annually. The spending is focused on generation, battery storage and transmission infrastructure to accommodate growing electricity demand. The company expects 2026 earnings of $6.30-$6.45 per share.
The company is progressing on major transmission and generation projects. About 70% of the 1,300 structure pads for the Boardman-to-Hemingway project have been completed, with more than 400 towers built and wire stringing underway. The project is scheduled to begin operations by late 2027. Construction has begun on the Southwest Intertie Project North, while work on Gateway West progresses. Idaho Power plans to develop 167 megawatts (MW), 222-MW South Hills and 430-MW Peregrine natural gas projects. It recently added 250 MW of company-owned battery storage capacity.
These investments are increasingly important as customer and load growth accelerates. Customer count increased 2.3% year over year, while industrial revenues rose 17%, reflecting higher demand from large contract customers. Overall, continued investment in generation, storage and transmission can expand infrastructure capacity and help IDACORP meet long-term load growth.
Investments Strengthening Utility Growth
Electric utilities are undertaking strategic capital investments to develop infrastructure, expand generation capacity, accommodate rising electricity demand and strengthen grid reliability. These investments can expand the regulated rate base, enhance operational performance and support sustainable earnings growth.
FirstEnergy Corp. FE plans to invest $36 billion through 2030 under its Energize365 investment plan to modernize its transmission and distribution networks. These investments are expected to strengthen grid reliability and support rising electricity demand.
Xcel Energy XEL plans to invest $60 billion through 2030 to expand and modernize its infrastructure. These investments aim to support growing customer demand and strengthen grid reliability.
The Zacks Rundown on IDA
IDA’s Earnings Estimates
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 and 2027 EPS indicates a year-over-year increase of 8.14% and 8.59%, respectively.
Debt to Capital
IDA's debt-to-capital currently stands at 50.08%, lower than the Zacks Utility - Electric Power industry’s 62.33%.
IDA’s Stock Price Performance
In the past six months, the company’s shares have plunged 9.4% compared with the industry’s 14.8% decline.
IDA’s Zacks Rank
IDA currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
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IDACORP, Inc. (IDA) : Free Stock Analysis Report

Can Systematic Capital Investment Drive IDACORP's Long-Term Growth?

For Immediate Release
Chicago, IL – September 28, 2026 – Stocks in this week’s article are Brinker International, Inc. EAT, Synopsys, Inc. SNPS and FirstEnergy Corp. FE.
Buy These 3 Sales Growth Stocks Amid Rising Rate Hike Bets
U.S. equities have posted solid gains so far in 2026 despite elevated Treasury yields, oil price volatility, sticky inflation, tariff uncertainty and stretched tech valuations. The Federal Reserve’s latest rate hike, along with prospects of further tightening, has added to concerns over restrictive financial conditions. Still, resilient corporate earnings and robust AI-related spending have supported investor sentiment, keeping the major indexes firmly in positive territory despite persistent macroeconomic and policy headwinds.
Against this backdrop, the traditional approach to stock selection remains a good idea. Sales growth offers a more reliable basis for evaluating stocks than earnings-focused metrics. In this regard, stocks like Brinker International, Inc., Synopsys, Inc. and FirstEnergy Corp. are worth adding to your portfolio.
Sales growth is an important gauge of a company’s business momentum, highlighting customer demand and its effectiveness in selling products or services. Sustained revenue expansion may indicate favorable industry dynamics, market share gains, pricing strength, successful product introductions, or entry into new markets and customer segments. Rising sales can also enhance operating leverage by allocating fixed costs across a broader revenue base, supporting margin improvement and profitability.
However, sales growth should be evaluated alongside industry conditions, competitive performance, pricing trends, customer mix and the broader economy. The quality of growth also matters: recurring revenues, repeat purchases, volume-led gains and resilient demand are typically more sustainable than temporary increases. Companies that consistently deliver high-quality sales growth are often better positioned to generate stable cash flows, finance expansion, reinforce competitive advantages and create sustainable shareholder returns. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
3 Stocks with Robust Sales Growth to Bet On
Based in Dallas, TX, Brinker International owns, operates, develops and franchises restaurants under the Chili’s Grill & Bar (Chili’s) and Maggiano’s Little Italy (Maggiano’s) brands. As of June 24, 2026, EAT owned, operated or franchised 1,635 restaurants.
Its expected sales growth rate for fiscal 2027 is 8.1%. Brinker International carries a Zacks Rank #2 at present.
Based in Sunnyvale, CA, Synopsys is a vendor of electronic design automation software and related solutions for the semiconductor and electronics industries. SNPS offers products used across the chip design flow, from design capture and implementation to verification, sign-off and manufacturing.
Its expected sales growth rate for fiscal 2026 is 37.8%. Synopsys currently carries a Zacks Rank #2.
Headquartered in Akron, OH, FirstEnergy is a diversified energy company that engages in the transmission, distribution and generation of electricity. FE’s reportable segments are Distribution, Integrated and Stand-Alone Transmission.
Its sales are expected to rise 6.9% in 2026. FE carries a Zacks Rank #2 at present.
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For the rest of this Screen of the Week article please visit Zacks.com at: https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2995642/buy-these-3-sales-growth-stocks-amid-rising-rate-hike-bets
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Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Inherent in any investment is the potential for loss. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and nothing herein constitutes investment, legal, accounting or tax advice, or a recommendation to buy, sell or hold a security. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. It should not be assumed that any investments in securities, companies, sectors or markets identified and described were or will be profitable. All information is current as of the date of herein and is subject to change without notice. Any views or opinions expressed may not reflect those of the firm as a whole. Zacks Investment Research does not engage in investment banking, market making or asset management activities of any securities. These returns are from hypothetical portfolios consisting of stocks with Zacks Rank = 1 that were rebalanced monthly with zero transaction costs. These are not the returns of actual portfolios of stocks. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged index. Visit https://www.zacks.com/performance for information about the performance numbers displayed in this press release.
Beyond Nvidia: AI's Second Wave Is Here
The AI revolution has already minted millionaires. But the stocks everyone knows about aren't likely to keep delivering the biggest profits. AI’s second wave is moving from infrastructure to implementation and these companies are at the forefront of this transition, positioned to become what Amazon and Google were to the internet era.
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This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com).

Zacks.com featured highlights include Brinker International, Synopsys and FirstEnergy

Friday, September 25, 2026
The Zacks Research Daily presents the best research output of our analyst team. Today's Research Daily features new research reports on 16 major stocks, including ExxonMobil Holdings Corp. (XOM), Automatic Data Processing, Inc. (ADP) and Cadence Design Systems, Inc. (CDNS), as well a micro-cap stock BranchOut Food Inc. (BOF). The Zacks microcap research is unique as our research content on these small and under-the-radar companies is the only research of its type in the country.
These research reports have been hand-picked from the roughly 70 reports published by our analyst team today.
You can see all of today’s research reports here >>>
Ahead of Wall Street
The daily 'Ahead of Wall Street' article is a must-read for all investors who would like to be ready for that day's trading action. The article comes out before the market opens, attempting to make sense of that morning's economic releases and how they will affect that day's market action. You can read this article for free on our home page and can actually sign up there to get an email notification as this article comes out each morning.
You can read today's AWS here >>> Pre-Markets Higher Despite Increasing Bond Yields
Today's Featured Research Reports
ExxonMobil’s shares have outperformed the Zacks Oil and Gas - Integrated - International industry over the year-to-date period (+37.4% vs. +14.9%). The company’s investment case remains balanced between advantaged upstream growth and persistent market risk.
Record Permian output, continued Guyana development and LNG expansion support long-duration production and cash flow, while structural cost savings and low leverage strengthen financial flexibility and shareholder returns. However, earnings remain exposed to volatile oil, gas, refining and chemical markets, with Middle East disruptions adding operating uncertainty.
The pause of the Baytown blue hydrogen project due to insufficient demand also highlights weaker commercial visibility for emerging businesses and greater policy sensitivity. Product Solutions results can swing sharply with market conditions, while returns from newer investments depend on execution, customer adoption and durable demand over time.
(You can read the full research report on ExxonMobil here >>>)
Shares of Automatic Data Processing have gained +4.6% over the year-to-date period against the Zacks Internet - Software industry’s gain of +11.7%. The company’s global scale, broad HCM suite and AI-enabled service model support steady revenue growth and operating efficiency.
Automatic Data Processingss expanding enterprise offerings and targeted acquisitions deepen workforce management and compensation capabilities, while recurring cash generation supports dividends and share repurchases. However, the PEO business faces margin compression from zero-margin benefit pass-throughs, workers’ compensation and selling costs.
Competition for clients and skilled associates remains a risk and Employer Services retention is expected to ease modestly. Regulatory complexity also raises execution demands across ADP’s footprint, even as it supports demand for compliance expertise. The Zacks analyst maintain a Neutral recommendation on it in anticipation of a cheaper entry for investors.
(You can read the full research report on Automatic Data Processing here >>>)
Cadence’s shares have outperformed the Zacks Computer - Software industry over the year-to-date period (+3% vs. -5%). The company is benefiting from higher design complexity and rising customer spend on AI-driven automation. Amid rapid AI expansion, the Cadence.ai portfolio has been gaining strength and the new product launches (like ChipStack, ViraStack and InnoStack AI Super Agents) are expected to aid in sustaining the momentum.
The hardware systems continue to gain traction from AI, high-performance computing ("HPC"), robotics and automotive companies. Record backlog and a higher 2026 revenue outlook support visibility, while recurring revenues remain a stabilizing feature of the model.
Management now expects 2026 revenues in the band of $6.26-$6.34 billion compared with $5.3 billion in 2025. Stiff competition in the EDA space, along with heavy reliance on international markets and high goodwill and intangible assets on the balance sheet, remain concerns.
(You can read the full research report on Cadence here >>>)
Shares of BranchOut Food have outperformed the Zacks Food - Miscellaneous industry over the year-to-date period (+22.3% vs. -0.7%). This microcap company with a market capitalization of $63.25 million has its investment case increasingly supported by better revenue visibility, expanding recurring retail programs, a growing ingredient business and broader product applications.
Rising factory utilization and improved sourcing could strengthen unit economics as production scales, while European private-label opportunities add another potential growth channel. However, the outlook remains balanced by meaningful execution and financial risks. Liquidity remains tight, growth requires substantial working capital, and continued financing could lead to dilution.
Manufacturing is concentrated at a single facility, while customer concentration remains high. Sustained operating leverage will depend on converting higher volumes into improved profitability while keeping manufacturing and corporate costs under control.
(You can read the full research report on BranchOut Food here >>>)
Other noteworthy reports we are featuring today include FirstEnergy Corp. (FE), Gen Digital Inc. (GEN) and BridgeBio Pharma, Inc. (BBIO).
Mark Vickery
Senior Editor
Note: Sheraz Mian heads the Zacks Equity Research department and is a well-regarded expert of aggregate earnings. He is frequently quoted in the print and electronic media and publishes the weekly Earnings Trends and Earnings Preview reports. If you want an email notification each time Sheraz publishes a new article, please click here>>>
Today's Must Read
Advantaged Upstream Growth & LNG Expansion to Aid ExxonMobil (XOM)
Featured Reports
Data Center Demand and Grid Investment Aid FirstEnergy Corp.(FE)
Per the Zacks analyst, FirstEnergy Corp. benefits from rising contracted and pipeline data-center demand. Its grid investments strengthen reliability and support long-term earnings growth.
Gen Digital (GEN) Rides on Product and Customer Strength
Per the Zacks analyst, Gen Digital is gaining from solid demand for ID theft protection solutions such as dark web monitoring and ID advisor. Continued stabilization of customer count is a positive.
BridgeBio's (BBIO) New Potential Launches to Cut Dependency on Attruby
The Zacks analyst is encouraged by BridgeBio's potential product launches over the next 12 months. Three candidates are under FDA review, with the earliest approval decision expected before 2026-end.
Kirby (KEX) Benefits From Share Buyback Amid Rising Expenses
Per the Zacks analyst, rewarding shareholders through share buybacks boosts investor confidence and positively impacts Kirby's bottom line. Rising expenses continue to act as a concern.
Uranium Energy (UEC) Bets on Growth Projects, Execution Risks Remain
As per the Zacks analyst, Uranium Energy is poised to gain from its two operating in-situ recovery platforms and project pipeline. However elevated costs and regulatory delays remain risks.
Fastly's (FSLY) Platform Expansion Supports Growth Amid Rising Risks
Fastly benefits from deeper platform adoption, improving margins and cross-sell opportunities, but traffic volatility, pricing pressure and customer concentration temper the outlook.
Retail Growth & Cost Discipline Aid Cracker Barrel (CBRL)
Per the Zacks analyst, Cracker Barrel benefits from retail sales growth, lower costs and disciplined expense management. Also, improving guest metrics and loyalty engagement bode well.
New Upgrades
Teleflex (TFX) Streamlines Portfolio as Vascular Arm Gains Ground
The Zacks analyst is positive on Teleflex's focused portfolio, supported by Vascular growth, innovation, debt reduction and share repurchases that strengthen its long-term outlook.
Aerospace & Transportation Unit Benefits Constellium (CSTM)
Per the Zacks analyst, Constellium's Aerospace & Transportation segment is driven by higher revenue per ton, including higher metal prices. Its shareholder-friendly measures are encouraging.
Transaction Growth & AI Workflows Aid BILL Holdings (BILL) Prospects
Per the Zacks analyst, BILL Holdings gains from rising transaction activity, wider product adoption and AI workflows. Partnerships expand distribution, while spend tools deepen customer engagement.
New Downgrades
On Holding AG (ONON) Faces Tariff, Cost Pressures Outlook
Per the Zacks analyst, ONON faces tariff uncertainty and rising SG&A costs as reinvestment in brand, retail and capacity expansion weighs on profitability.
Elevated Costs, Regulatory Risks Weigh on Interactive Brokers (IBKR)
Per the Zacks analyst, steadily mounting operating costs are expected to hurt Interactive Brokers. International complexity and capital efficiency risks could restrain future returns for shareholders.
Virtu Financial (VIRT) Gains from Market Making unit, Expenses High
Per the Zacks Analyst, Virtu Financial's Market Making segment is well-poised for growth due to growing retail engagement. However, elevated expenses are putting pressure on its margins.
Zacks' Research Chief Names "Stock Most Likely to Double"
Our team of experts has just released the 5 stocks with the greatest probability of gaining +100% or more in the coming months. Of those 5, Director of Research Sheraz Mian highlights the one stock set to climb highest.
This innovative software-as-a-service firm upped its user base +22% year over year. That rate is increasing and margins are expanding as AI efficiencies take effect. Of course, all our elite picks aren't winners, but this one could far surpass earlier Zacks' Stocks Set to Double like D-Wave Quantum, which shot up +680.1%.
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Top Analyst Reports for ExxonMobil, Automatic Data Processing & Cadence

FirstEnergy (FE) could be a solid choice for investors given its recent upgrade to a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). This rating change essentially reflects an upward trend in earnings estimates -- one of the most powerful forces impacting stock prices.
A company's changing earnings picture is at the core of the Zacks rating. The system tracks the Zacks Consensus Estimate -- the consensus measure of EPS estimates from the sell-side analysts covering the stock -- for the current and following years.
Since a changing earnings picture is a powerful factor influencing near-term stock price movements, the Zacks rating system is very useful for individual investors. They may find it difficult to make decisions based on rating upgrades by Wall Street analysts, as these are mostly driven by subjective factors that are hard to see and measure in real time.
As such, the Zacks rating upgrade for FirstEnergy is essentially a positive comment on its earnings outlook that could have a favorable impact on its stock price.
Most Powerful Force Impacting Stock Prices
The change in a company's future earnings potential, as reflected in earnings estimate revisions, and the near-term price movement of its stock are proven to be strongly correlated. That's partly because of the influence of institutional investors that use earnings and earnings estimates for calculating the fair value of a company's shares. An increase or decrease in earnings estimates in their valuation models simply results in higher or lower fair value for a stock, and institutional investors typically buy or sell it. Their transaction of large amounts of shares then leads to price movement for the stock.
Fundamentally speaking, rising earnings estimates and the consequent rating upgrade for FirstEnergy imply an improvement in the company's underlying business. Investors should show their appreciation for this improving business trend by pushing the stock higher.
Harnessing the Power of Earnings Estimate Revisions
As empirical research shows a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and near-term stock movements, tracking such revisions for making an investment decision could be truly rewarding. Here is where the tried-and-tested Zacks Rank stock-rating system plays an important role, as it effectively harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions.
The Zacks Rank stock-rating system, which uses four factors related to earnings estimates to classify stocks into five groups, ranging from Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) to Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell), has an impressive externally-audited track record, with Zacks Rank #1 stocks generating an average annual return of +25% since 1988. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>> .
Earnings Estimate Revisions for FirstEnergy
For the fiscal year ending December 2026, this utility company is expected to earn $2.74 per share, which is unchanged compared with the year-ago reported number.
Analysts have been steadily raising their estimates for FirstEnergy. Over the past three months, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the company has increased 0.1%.
Bottom Line
Unlike the overly optimistic Wall Street analysts whose rating systems tend to be weighted toward favorable recommendations, the Zacks rating system maintains an equal proportion of "buy" and "sell" ratings for its entire universe of more than 4,000 stocks at any point in time. Irrespective of market conditions, only the top 5% of the Zacks-covered stocks get a "Strong Buy" rating and the next 15% get a "Buy" rating. So, the placement of a stock in the top 20% of the Zacks-covered stocks indicates its superior earnings estimate revision feature, making it a solid candidate for producing market-beating returns in the near term.
The upgrade of FirstEnergy to a Zacks Rank #2 positions it in the top 20% of the Zacks-covered stocks in terms of estimate revisions, implying that the stock might move higher in the near term.
Zacks' Research Chief Names "Stock Most Likely to Double"
Our team of experts has just released the 5 stocks with the greatest probability of gaining +100% or more in the coming months. Of those 5, Director of Research Sheraz Mian highlights the one stock set to climb highest.
This innovative software-as-a-service firm upped its user base +22% year over year. That rate is increasing and margins are expanding as AI efficiencies take effect. Of course, all our elite picks aren't winners, but this one could far surpass earlier Zacks' Stocks Set to Double like D-Wave Quantum, which shot up +680.1%.
Free: See Our Top Stock And 4 Runners Up
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This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com).

FirstEnergy (FE) Upgraded to Buy: Here's What You Should Know

Evergy EVRG is positioned to benefit from rising electricity demand from data centers, supported by economic development across its Kansas and Missouri service territories. New data center projects are expected to increase power consumption, while associated infrastructure investments can expand the company’s generation and transmission requirements.
In the second quarter of 2026, Evergy disclosed that it had signed electric service agreements (“ESA”) covering approximately 2,600 megawatts (MW) of projected peak steady-state data center demand. The agreements cover three new projects and expansions of two previously announced projects, with customer service starting or expected to start between 2026 and 2028. Evergy also expects to execute at least one additional ESA in 2026, potentially extending load growth into the 2030s.
EVRG's data center opportunity extends beyond signed agreements. The company has identified approximately 2-2.5 gigawatts (GW) of expansion opportunities at or near existing customer sites and another 1-2 GW of potential Tier 2 customers. EVRG said these opportunities are not included in its five-year financial plan, while the broader pipeline contains more than 10 GW of additional potential load.
Evergy plans $21.6 billion in capital investments through 2030, supporting approximately 12% annual rate-base growth while expanding generation and grid infrastructure to accommodate rising data center demand. The company is targeting 6-8% adjusted earnings growth through 2030.
Overall, Evergy’s contracted data center demand, expansion opportunities and planned capital investments could support sustained load growth, rate-base expansion and long-term earnings growth.
Rising Data Center Load Supports Utility Expansion
Rising data center load is reshaping the electric utility industry, encouraging utilities to expand generation, transmission and distribution infrastructure. Growing power requirements are also accelerating grid investments and capacity additions.
FirstEnergy Corp. FE is seeing stronger electricity demand from data center development, with contracted and pipeline demand reaching 24.8 GW, approximately 30% higher than in the first quarter.
PPL Corporation PPL is benefiting from expanding data center demand, with Pennsylvania’s advanced-stage data center pipeline reaching 31.8 GW, including more than 11 GW under signed ESAs. Kentucky’s economic development pipeline totals 13.7 GW, including 11.6 GW tied to data center opportunities.
EVRG’s Earnings Estimates
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 and 2027 EPS indicates an increase of 10.97% and 9.08%, respectively, year over year.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
EVRG’s Debt to Capital
EVRG's debt-to-capital ratio currently stands at 61.62%, lower than the Utility-Electric Power industry’s 62.33%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
EVRG’s Stock Price Performance
In the past year, the company’s shares have risen 5.1% compared with the industry’s 1% growth.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
EVRG’s Zacks Rank
EVRG currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Zacks' Research Chief Names "Stock Most Likely to Double"
Our team of experts has just released the 5 stocks with the greatest probability of gaining +100% or more in the coming months. Of those 5, Director of Research Sheraz Mian highlights the one stock set to climb highest.
This innovative software-as-a-service firm upped its user base +22% year over year. That rate is increasing and margins are expanding as AI efficiencies take effect. Of course, all our elite picks aren't winners, but this one could far surpass earlier Zacks' Stocks Set to Double like D-Wave Quantum, which shot up +680.1%.
Free: See Our Top Stock And 4 Runners Up
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com).

Can Rising Data Center Demand Drive Evergy's Long-Term Growth?

U.S. equities have posted solid gains so far in 2026 despite elevated Treasury yields, oil price volatility, sticky inflation, tariff uncertainty and stretched tech valuations. The Federal Reserve’s latest rate hike, along with prospects of further tightening, has added to concerns over restrictive financial conditions. Still, resilient corporate earnings and robust AI-related spending have supported investor sentiment, keeping the major indexes firmly in positive territory despite persistent macroeconomic and policy headwinds.
Against this backdrop, the traditional approach to stock selection remains a good idea. Sales growth offers a more reliable basis for evaluating stocks than earnings-focused metrics. In this regard, stocks like Brinker International, Inc. EAT, Synopsys, Inc. SNPS and FirstEnergy Corp. FE are worth adding to your portfolio.
Sales growth is an important gauge of a company’s business momentum, highlighting customer demand and its effectiveness in selling products or services. Sustained revenue expansion may indicate favorable industry dynamics, market share gains, pricing strength, successful product introductions, or entry into new markets and customer segments. Rising sales can also enhance operating leverage by allocating fixed costs across a broader revenue base, supporting margin improvement and profitability.
However, sales growth should be evaluated alongside industry conditions, competitive performance, pricing trends, customer mix and the broader economy. The quality of growth also matters: recurring revenues, repeat purchases, volume-led gains and resilient demand are typically more sustainable than temporary increases. Companies that consistently deliver high-quality sales growth are often better positioned to generate stable cash flows, finance expansion, reinforce competitive advantages and create sustainable shareholder returns.
Selecting the Potential Winning Stocks
To shortlist stocks with impressive sales growth and a high cash balance, we have selected 5-Year Historical Sales Growth (%) greater than X-Industry and Cash Flow of more than $500 million as our main screening parameters.
But sales growth and cash strength are not the absolute criteria for selecting stocks. Hence, we have added other factors to arrive at a winning strategy.
P/S Ratio less than X-Industry: This metric determines the value placed on each dollar of a company’s revenues. The lower the ratio, the better it is for picking a stock since the investor is paying less for each unit of sales.
% Change F1 Sales Estimate Revisions (four weeks) greater than X-Industry: Estimate revisions, better than the industry, are often seen to trigger an increase in stock price.
Operating Margin (average last five years) greater than 5%: The operating margin measures how much every dollar of a company's sales translates into profits. A high ratio indicates that the company has good cost control and sales are increasing faster than costs — an optimal situation.
Return on Equity (ROE) greater than 5%: This metric will ensure that sales growth is translated into profits and the company is not hoarding cash. A high ROE means that the company is spending wisely and is, in all likelihood, profitable.
Zacks Rank less than or equal to 2: Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) or 2 (Buy) stocks are known to outperform, irrespective of the market environment. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
3 Stocks With Robust Sales Growth to Bet on
Based in Dallas, TX, Brinker International owns, operates, develops and franchises restaurants under the Chili’s Grill & Bar (Chili’s) and Maggiano’s Little Italy (Maggiano’s) brands. As of June 24, 2026, EAT owned, operated or franchised 1,635 restaurants.
Its expected sales growth rate for fiscal 2027 is 8.1%. Brinker International carries a Zacks Rank #2 at present.
Based in Sunnyvale, CA, Synopsys is a vendor of electronic design automation software and related solutions for the semiconductor and electronics industries. SNPS offers products used across the chip design flow, from design capture and implementation to verification, sign-off and manufacturing.
Its expected sales growth rate for fiscal 2026 is 37.8%. Synopsys currently carries a Zacks Rank #2.
Headquartered in Akron, OH, FirstEnergy is a diversified energy company that engages in the transmission, distribution and generation of electricity. FE’s reportable segments are Distribution, Integrated and Stand-Alone Transmission.
Its sales are expected to rise 6.9% in 2026. FE carries a Zacks Rank #2 at present.
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Buy These 3 Sales Growth Stocks Amid Rising Rate Hike Bets

Alliant Energy LNT benefits from infrastructure investments that strengthen its generation, transmission and distribution systems while improving operational efficiency and reliability. These investments strengthen operations, assist the company in meeting rising electricity demand and provide opportunities for rate-base expansion.
The company plans to invest nearly $3 billion in 2026 and $13.4 billion through 2029, representing an approximately 12% compound annual growth rate in investment. The plan includes investments across generation, transmission and distribution infrastructure. Rising capital investments, including allowances for funds used during construction, are expected to support 5-7% earnings growth through 2029.
Rising electricity demand could strengthen LNT’s long-term growth by supporting continued infrastructure investment and rate-base expansion. LNT has secured 3.4 gigawatts of contracted large-customer demand, which is expected to support nearly 60% growth in projected electricity demand by 2031. The company signed a 370-megawatt (MW) Iowa electric service agreement, while contracted data-center demand reached 3.4 gigawatts (GW). Additional opportunities of 2-4 GW are progressing, supporting load growth through 2030.
Infrastructure spending is also being supported by LNT’s resource-development plans. The company is adding generation capacity to meet rising demand and recently received the final permits to proceed with construction of the 720-MW Bobcat Energy Center in Marshalltown, IA. The natural gas-fired facility is expected to add flexible generation capacity as electricity demand increases.
Overall, LNT’s infrastructure investments, growing large-customer demand and resource-development plans provide opportunities for long-term growth.
Strategic Investments Strengthen Utility Growth
Electric utilities are increasing strategic investments in generation, transmission and distribution infrastructure to strengthen reliability. These investments expand grid capacity, address rising electricity demand and support long-term sustainable financial growth.
PPL Corporation PPL plans infrastructure and generation investments to support rising electricity demand. PPL plans to invest about $23 billion through 2029 to modernize infrastructure, strengthen reliability and support approximately 10.3% average annual rate-base growth.
FirstEnergy FE is advancing its Energize365 program to modernize transmission and distribution systems. The company plans $36 billion of capital investments through 2030, supporting reliability, customer growth and long-term earnings expansion.
The Zacks Rundown on LNT
LNT’s Earnings Estimates
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 and 2027 EPS indicates a year-over-year increase of 6.52% and 7.25%, respectively.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
LNT’s Stock Trading at a Premium
LNT is trading at a premium to the industry, with a forward 12-month price-to-earnings ratio of 18.53X versus the industry average of 14.48X.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
LNT’s Stock Price Performance
In the past six months, the company’s shares have plunged 7.6% compared with the industry’s 10.7% decline.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
LNT’s Zacks Rank
LNT currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
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Can LNT's Infrastructure Investments Support Long-Term Growth?

Looking today at week-over-week shares outstanding changes among the universe of ETFs covered at ETF Channel, one standout is the Invesco S&P 500 Low Volatility ETF (Symbol: SPLV) where we have detected an approximate $268.7 million dollar inflow -- that's a 3.8% increase week over week in outstanding units (from 95,290,000 to 98,930,000). Among the largest underlying components of SPLV, in trading today FirstEnergy Corp (Symbol: FE) is off about 0.7%, Regency Centers Corp (Symbol: REG) is down about 0.5%, and Duke Energy Corp (Symbol: DUK) is lower by about 0.4%. For a complete list of holdings, visit the SPLV Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of SPLV, versus its 200 day moving average:
Looking at the chart above, SPLV's low point in its 52 week range is $69.63 per share, with $78.82 as the 52 week high point — that compares with a last trade of $73.54. Comparing the most recent share price to the 200 day moving average can also be a useful technical analysis technique -- learn more about the 200 day moving average ».
Exchange traded funds (ETFs) trade just like stocks, but instead of ''shares'' investors are actually buying and selling ''units''. These ''units'' can be traded back and forth just like stocks, but can also be created or destroyed to accommodate investor demand. Each week we monitor the week-over-week change in shares outstanding data, to keep a lookout for those ETFs experiencing notable inflows (many new units created) or outflows (many old units destroyed). Creation of new units will mean the underlying holdings of the ETF need to be purchased, while destruction of units involves selling underlying holdings, so large flows can also impact the individual components held within ETFs.
Further SPLV Research:

Notable ETF Inflow Detected - SPLV, FE, REG, DUK

PPL Corporation’s PPL shares have lost 5.2% in the past month, wider than the Zacks Utility-Electric Power industry’s decrease of 4.8%. The company also underperformed the Zacks Utilities sector’s decline of 3.7% in the same time frame.
PPL is subject to intensifying competition in the transmission business, rising operating expenses and execution risks associated with its substantial infrastructure capital expenditure plan, which could continue to weigh on operations.
However, the company is benefiting from rising data center demand in Pennsylvania and Kentucky, where the rapid expansion of energy-intensive facilities is boosting electricity consumption.
Price Performance (One Month)
Another operator in the same space, FirstEnergy Corp. FE, is making a substantial investment to strengthen the infrastructure to provide reliable services to its expanding customer base. In the past month, FE’s share have declined 2.7%.
Should investors consider adding PPL to their portfolios amid the recent weakness in its share price? Let us take a closer look at the key factors that could help determine whether the current price level offers an attractive entry point for PPL stock.
Headwinds for PPL Stock
PPL Corporation faces several challenges, including substantial capital investment requirements, project execution risks and uncertainties related to timely cost recovery. The company also encounters increasing competition in Pennsylvania’s transmission market.
PPL’s operations remain vulnerable to weather-driven fluctuations in electricity demand, cybersecurity threats, equipment malfunctions and fuel supply interruptions, any of which could adversely affect earnings and profitability.
Key Drivers That Could Support PPL’s Performance
PPL continues to benefit from rising large-load demand, supporting future electricity consumption and infrastructure needs. In Pennsylvania, advanced-stage data center demand increased 12% sequentially to 31.8 GW in second-quarter 2026. Kentucky’s development pipeline reached 13.7 GW through 2032, including 11.6 GW from data centers, while signed reimbursement agreements rose to 1.3 GW from 0.9 GW.
PPL plans to invest $23 billion in regulated infrastructure during 2026-2029, including $5.1 billion in 2026, to enhance reliability, modernize its systems and support emission reductions. The program is expected to drive 10.3% average annual rate base growth through 2029, excluding potential contributions from Invitium Energy.
More than 60% of PPL’s capital investment plan is eligible for contemporaneous recovery, helping reduce the impact of regulatory lag on earnings. Faster recovery of capital spending also supports efficient funding of the company’s long-term infrastructure projects.
PPL is expanding its clean-energy initiatives to enhance grid reliability and meet rising electricity demand. Investments in wind, energy storage and cleaner generation should help diversify its energy mix and improve operational flexibility. The utilities are also working with X-energy to evaluate the deployment of Xe-100 small modular reactors in Kentucky, supporting long-term demand with reliable, clean power.
PPL continues to emphasize disciplined cost management to deliver value to customers and shareholders. The company achieved $170 million in annual run-rate O&M savings in 2025 and targets $175 million of O&M reductions in 2026 compared with 2021 levels. These efficiencies should support competitive utility rates, improve affordability and strengthen PPL’s ability to serve and retain customers.
PPL Stock’s Earnings Estimate Moving North
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for PPL’s 2026 and 2027 earnings per share indicates year-over-year growth of 7.18% and 8.32%, respectively.
Another utility, Exelon Corporation EXC, has strong transmission and distribution operations and is investing strategically to further expand its infrastructure. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for EXC’s 2026 and 2027 earnings per share indicates year-over-year growth of 3.25% and 6.57%, respectively.
PPL Stock Trades at a Premium
PPL Corporation is currently valued at a premium compared with its industry on a forward 12-month P/E basis. The stock is trading at a P/E F12M of 16.56X compared with its industry’s 14.7X.
Other utility, Exelon, is currently trading at a discount with a P/E F 12M of 14.4X compared with its industry. FirstEnergy is trading at a P/E F12M of 15.98X, a premium to the industry it belongs to.
PPL’s Return Is Lower Than the Industry
Return on equity (“ROE”) is a financial ratio that measures how well a company uses its shareholders’ equity to generate profits. The current ROE of the company indicates that it is using shareholders’ funds more efficiently than peers.
PPL’s trailing 12-month ROE is 9.33%, lower than the industry average of 11.4%.
PPL’s Long-Term Debt to Capital
Utility operations are capital-intensive and companies in this sector often need to borrow to fund long-term projects when internal resources are insufficient. The company is also borrowing funds to meet its capital requirements.
PPL’s current long-term debt-to-capital is 57.46% compared with its industry average of 61.32%. This shows the company is utilizing less debt than peers to run its operations.
Rounding Up
PPL Corporation is enhancing grid reliability and resilience through infrastructure upgrades, IT modernization and a $23 billion capital investment plan that supports a 10.3% rate base CAGR. The company also benefits from growing data center-driven electricity demand and timely cost recovery mechanisms that help fund its long-term growth initiatives efficiently.
However, PPL's ROE is currently lower than its industry peers and trades at a premium, so investors may be better served waiting for a more attractive entry point before considering the stock. The stock currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
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This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com).