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.

Компания FirstEnergy Corp. демонстрирует смешанную динамику по ключевым фундаментальным метрикам. В частности, мультипликатор P/E на уровне 21.88 выше медианного значения в отрасли на 9.5%, что может указывать на некоторую переоценённость. Однако, показатели ROE и net_income значительно выше медианы, что свидетельствует о высокой прибыльности компании. Долговая нагрузка, отражаемая через коэффициент debt/equity, значительно выше медианы отрасли, что создает дополнительные риски для инвесторов. Дивидендная доходность в TTM составляет 0%, что является негативным фактором, учитывая её недавнее снижение. В то же время, выручка компании значительно выше медианной, что говорит о её устойчивом финансовом положении. Несмотря на некоторые слабые стороны, такие как низкие показатели рентабельности (ROA, ROI) и высокие долги, позитивный рост выручки и прибыли указывает на потенциал для дальнейшего роста, что в целом создает нейтральный фон для оценки компании.

FirstEnergy Corp.

In the latest look at the underlying components of the S&P 500 ordered by largest market capitalization, FirstEnergy Corp (Symbol: FE) has taken over the #320 spot from Expedia Group Inc (Symbol: EXPE), according to The Online Investor.
Market capitalization is an important data point for investors to keep an eye on, for various reasons. The most basic reason is that it gives a true comparison of the value attributed by the stock market to a given company's stock. Many beginning investors look at one stock trading at $10 and another trading at $20 and mistakenly think the latter company is worth twice as much — that of course is a completely meaningless comparison without knowing how many shares of each company exist. But comparing market capitalization (factoring in those share counts) creates a true "apples-to-apples" comparison of the value of two stocks. In the case of FirstEnergy Corp (Symbol: FE), the market cap is now $29.27 billion, versus Expedia Group Inc (Symbol: EXPE) at $26.95 billion.
Below is a chart of FirstEnergy Corp versus Expedia Group Inc plotting their respective size rank within the S&P 500 over time (FE plotted in blue; EXPE plotted in green):
Below is a three month price history chart comparing the stock performance of FE vs. EXPE:
Another reason market capitalization is important is where it places a company in terms of its size tier in relation to peers — much like the way a mid-size sedan is typically compared to other mid-size sedans (and not SUV's). This can have a direct impact on which mutual funds and ETFs are willing to own the stock. For instance, a mutual fund that is focused solely on Large Cap stocks may for example only be interested in those companies sized $10 billion or larger. Another illustrative example is the S&P MidCap index which essentially takes the S&P 500 index and "tosses out" the biggest 100 companies so as to focus solely on the 400 smaller "up-and-comers" (which in the right environment can outperform their larger rivals). So a company's market cap, especially in relation to other companies, carries great importance, and for this reason we at The Online Investor find value to putting together these rankings daily.
Examine the full FE market cap history vs. the full EXPE market cap history.
At the closing bell, FE is up about 0.4%, while EXPE is down about 1.2% on the day Thursday.
Also see:
Top Ten Hedge Funds Holding EIG
Institutional Holders of PAYR
CYAN market cap history
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

FirstEnergy Now #320 Largest Company, Surpassing Expedia Group

DTE Energy Company DTE is strengthening and expanding its infrastructure through long-term capital investments aimed at improving service efficiency for customers. The company is also increasing investments in renewable energy projects to support sustainable growth.
However, this Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) company faces risks from challenges in the energy trading business.
Tailwinds Supporting DTE’s Growth
DTE Energy Company is enhancing the reliability of its electric and natural gas utility systems through a strong capital investment plan. The company intends to invest $36.5 billion over the next five years, supporting its long-term operating earnings growth target of 6-8%. Through its DTE Vantage segment, the company plans to invest $2 billion from 2025 to 2029 in renewable and customized energy solutions, highlighting its continued focus on long-term sustainability.
The company is benefiting from the nationwide push toward clean energy investments. DTE Energy Company plans to invest $10 billion in clean energy generation over the next decade, adding an average of 900 megawatts (MW) of renewable capacity annually over the next five years. It also intends to accelerate energy storage development, targeting more than 2,900 MW of storage capacity by 2042.
DTE Energy Company plans to generate enough electricity from Michigan-based wind and solar resources to power about 5.5 million homes by 2042, supported by its MIGreenPower program. These clean energy initiatives are expected to play a significant role in helping the company achieve its carbon emission reduction targets.
Challenges Impacting DTE’s Growth
Electric and gas rates for the utilities are regulated by the Michigan Public Service Commission (“MPSC”) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (“FERC”) and cannot be modified without regulatory approval. The company could be adversely affected by new regulations or revised interpretations issued by the MPSC, FERC or other regulatory authorities.
DTE Energy Company expects continued challenges in its Energy Trading segment in the current market environment. The company noted that fluctuations in commodity prices, possible regulatory changes and revisions to Regional Transmission Organization guidelines may negatively affect the segment’s profitability.
DTE Stock Price Movement
In the past three months, DTE shares have rallied 13.9% compared with the industry’s growth of 6.3%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Stocks to Consider
Some better-ranked stocks from the same industry are FirstEnergy Corp. FE, Entergy Corporation ETR and NiSource Inc. NI, each carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
FE’s long-term (three to five years) earnings growth rate is 6.98%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its 2026 earnings per share (EPS) is pegged at $2.72, which implies a year-over-year improvement of 6.7%.
ETR’s long-term earnings growth rate is 11.50%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its 2026 EPS stands at $4.40, which suggests year-over-year growth of 12.5%.
NI’s long-term earnings growth rate is 5.97%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its 2026 EPS stands at $2.05, which calls for a year-over-year rise of 7.9%.
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. Little-known AI firms tackling the world's biggest problems may be more lucrative in the coming months and years.
See
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
NiSource, Inc (NI) : Free Stock Analysis Report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

DTE Energy Boosts Growth With Strategic Clean Energy Investments

American Electric Power Company, Inc. AEP continues to invest in infrastructure upgrades to enhance operational reliability and support increasing customer demand. The company is also gradually expanding its renewable energy generation portfolio.
However, this Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) company remains exposed to operational risks because of its significant reliance on a small number of Retail Electric Providers (REPs).
Factors Powering AEP’s Growth
AEP’s geographically diversified operations enable it to benefit from revenues generated across multiple states, unlike utilities that operate in a single state. The company owns the nation’s largest electricity transmission network, spanning about 38,000 circuit miles of transmission lines, including nearly 2,000 circuit miles of 765 kilovolt lines that form the backbone of the electric interconnection grid in the eastern United States.
American Electric has been steadily investing to expand its renewable generation portfolio. The company plans to allocate $8 billion to regulated renewable projects during 2026-2030. It is also executing a broader $72 billion investment plan for 2026-2030 across its electricity generation, transmission and distribution operations, including renewables. This capital plan is expected to support a 10% rate base CAGR through 2030, with nearly 90% of the investments anticipated to be recovered through reduced lag mechanisms.
The company is actively working to lower its carbon dioxide emission rate to support cleaner energy generation. Based on assumptions used in its latest analysis, the company expects to reduce its Scope 1 greenhouse gas emissions 80% by 2030 compared with the 2005 baseline.
Factors That Could Weigh on AEP Stock
AEP Texas depends significantly on a limited number of REPs for its revenues, with its two largest REPs accounting for 38% of operating revenues in 2025. Any payment delays or defaults by these REPs, stemming from economic or financial challenges, could adversely affect AEP Texas’s cash flow and financial condition.
As of Dec. 31, 2025, the company had a total generating capacity of nearly 25,400 megawatts (MW), including around 10,700 MW from coal-fired units. In April 2024, the Federal Environmental Protection Agency introduced four major new rules targeting fossil-fuel power generation facilities. The company’s management is currently assessing how these regulations may affect the future plans for its generating fleet. These rules could materially impact operating performance as AEP updates compliance cost estimates while continuing to ensure reliable and cost-effective electricity service.
AEP Stock Price Movement
In the past six months, AEP shares have risen 22.8% compared with the industry’s growth of 18.7%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Stocks to Consider
Some better-ranked stocks from the same industry are FirstEnergy Corp. FE, NiSource Inc. NI and Entergy Corporation ETR, each carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
FE’s long-term (three to five years) earnings growth rate is 6.46%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its 2026 earnings per share (EPS) is pegged at $2.72, which implies a year-over-year improvement of 6.7%.
NI’s long-term earnings growth rate is 5.97%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its 2026 EPS stands at $2.05, which calls for a year-over-year rise of 7.9%.
ETR’s long-term earnings growth rate is 11.50%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its 2026 EPS stands at $4.40, which suggests year-over-year growth of 12.5%.
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 top pick is a little-known satellite-based communications firm. Space is projected to become a trillion dollar industry, and this company's customer base is growing fast. Analysts have forecasted a major revenue breakout in 2025. Of course, all our elite picks aren't winners but this one could far surpass earlier Zacks' Stocks Set to Double like Hims & Hers Health, which shot up +209%.
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
NiSource, Inc (NI) : Free Stock Analysis Report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

American Electric Drives Growth Through Investments and Renewables

OGE Energy Corp. OGE continues to benefit from its strategic investments, which are focused on infrastructure upgradation. The company benefits from its focus on carbon-reduction initiatives and its robust renewable generation portfolio, positioning it for stronger long-term performance.
However, the company faces risks related to supply-chain disruption.
Factors in Favor of OGE
To earn profitable incentives from such hefty funding for utility-scale clean energy projects, OGE Energy has been investing steadily to expand its renewable generation assets. As of Dec. 31, 2025, the company owned the 120 megawatts (MW) Centennial, 101 MW OU Spirit and 228 MW Crossroads wind farms. It also owns and operates six solar sites across the state of Oklahoma and one in Arkansas, which come with a cumulative generation capacity of 32 MW.
To further promote clean energy, the company has also been focused on reducing its carbon emission load. To this end, it is imperative to mention that OG&E's current business strategy has reduced carbon dioxide emissions by more than 60% compared with the 2005 levels.
OGE Energy is the largest electric utility in Oklahoma and is pursuing an aggressive investment strategy to upgrade its infrastructure and provide seamless services to its customers. The company plans to spend nearly $7.29 billion between 2026 and 2030. With these capital investments, the company aims to maintain and improve the safety, resiliency and reliability of its distribution and transmission grid and generation fleet.
Challenges Faced by OGE
The company’s operations are impacted by broader economic conditions, including inflation, supply-chain disruptions, tariffs and potential recessions, which can raise costs and affect customers. OG&E has faced higher electricity production costs due to increased fuel prices, raw material inflation, logistical challenges and component shortages, while ongoing supply-chain disruptions have caused and may continue to cause delays in construction projects and equipment deliveries.
During 2025, the company’s fuel, purchased power and transmission expenses surged 17.1%, compared with the figures registered in the last year.
Infrastructure Investment: A Necessity
In addition to increasing electricity demand, rising temperatures put electric infrastructure at risk of overheating, equipment failures and fires. Expenditures and upkeep are essential for preserving service reliability and ensuring customer satisfaction. Along with OGE, other utilities are also focused on improving infrastructure.
Entergy Corporation ETR boasts a detailed capital investment plan aimed at modernizing, decarbonizing and diversifying its portfolio, and potentially construct additional generation.
ETR is also using modern technologies to improve its renewable energy system operations. The company plans to invest nearly $43 billion between 2026 and 2029 for infrastructure improvements, with a strong focus on renewable energy expansion and modernization.
Dominion Energy D has a well-chalked-out long-term capital expenditure plan to strengthen and expand its infrastructure. The company plans to invest nearly $65 billion in the 2026-2030 time period.
Dominion Energy plans to upgrade its electric infrastructure by installing smart meters and grid devices, and to enhance customer services through its customer information platform.
FirstEnergy Corporation’s FE goal of strengthening the transmission allows it to transmit electricity even during adverse weather conditions. The company’s ‘Energize365’ is a multi-year grid evolution platform focused on enhancing customer experience while maintaining its strong affordability position with rates at or below its in-state peers.
FirstEnergy has a capital investment plan of $36 billion for the 2026-2030 period, reflecting an increase of nearly 30% compared with its previous five-year investment plan.
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. Little-known AI firms tackling the world's biggest problems may be more lucrative in the coming months and years.
See
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
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

OGE Advances Clean Energy and Grid Modernization to Drive Growth

Vistra Corp. VST reported fourth-quarter 2025 earnings of $2.18 per share, which missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.51 by 13.1%. However, the bottom line increased 91.2% from $1.14 in the year-ago quarter.
Total Revenues of VST
Sales for the quarter totaled $4.58 billion, which lagged the Zacks Consensus Estimate of nearly $5.34 billion by 14.1%. However, the top line rose 13.5% from $4.04 billion recorded in the year-ago quarter.
Full-year 2025 revenues totaled $17.74 billion compared with $17.22 billion last year.
Vistra Corp. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
VST’s Operational Highlights
Fuel, purchased power costs and delivery fees for the year amounted to $9.1 billion, up 24.9% from last year’s $7.29 billion.
Operating costs for the year totaled $2.8 billion, up 16.1% from last year’s $2.41 billion.
Selling, general and administrative expenses amounted to $1.71 billion, up 7.1% from last year’s $1.6 billion.
Operating income totaled $1.91 billion compared with $4.08 billion a year ago.
Interest expenses and related charges came in at $1.18 billion, up 31% from last year.
VST’s Financial Highlights
Cash and cash equivalents totaled $0.79 billion as of Dec. 31, 2025 compared with $1.19 billion as of Dec. 31, 2024.
Net cash flow provided by operating activities in 2025 was $4.07 billion compared with $4.56 billion last year.
Total capital expenditures for 2025 were $2.75 billion compared with $2.09 billion recorded a year ago.
Available liquidity of the company as of Dec. 31, 2025 was $2.78 billion, enough to meet its near-term obligations.
As of Feb. 18, 2026, Vistra executed $5.9 billion in share repurchases since November 2021. Vistra has $1.8 billion dollars of the share repurchase authorization available, which it expects to complete by year-end 2027.
VST’s Guidance
For 2026, VST expects its Ongoing Operations Adjusted EBITDA and Ongoing Operations Adjusted free cash flow before growth to be in the band of $6.8-$7.6 billion and $3.925-$4.725 billion, respectively.
VST’s Zacks Rank
The company currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Recent Releases
Dominion Energy Inc. D delivered fourth-quarter 2025 operating earnings of 68 cents per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 64 cents by 6.3%. The bottom line increased 17.2% from the year-ago quarter's level.
Revenues of $4.09 billion topped the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.56 billion by 14.9%. The top line rose 20.4% from $3.4 billion in the year-ago quarter.
FirstEnergy Corp. FE registered fourth-quarter 2025 operating earnings of 53 cents per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 52 cents by 1.92%. In the year-ago quarter, the company reported earnings of 67 cents.
Operating revenues of $3.78 billion surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.25 billion by 16.9%. The top line increased 19.6% from $3.18 billion in the year-ago quarter.
IDACORP, Inc. IDA reported fourth-quarter 2025 earnings of 78 cents per share, which topped the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 74 cents by 5.4%. The company’s earnings improved 11.4% from 70 cents in the year-ago quarter.
Total revenues in the fourth quarter of 2025 were $405.2 million, lagging the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $417 million by 2.9%. The metric climbed 1.8% from $398.1 million in the year-ago quarter.
5 Stocks Set to Double
Each was handpicked by a Zacks expert as the favorite stock to gain +100% or more in the months ahead. They include
Stock #1: A Disruptive Force with Notable Growth and Resilience
Stock #2: Bullish Signs Signaling to Buy the Dip
Stock #3: One of the Most Compelling Investments in the Market
Stock #4: Leader In a Red-Hot Industry Poised for Growth
Stock #5: Modern Omni-Channel Platform Coiled to Spring
Most of the stocks in this report are flying under Wall Street radar, which provides a great opportunity to get in on the ground floor. While not all picks can be winners, previous recommendations have soared +171%, +209% and +232%.
See Our Newest 5 Stocks Set to Double Picks >>
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
IDACORP, Inc. (IDA) : Free Stock Analysis Report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Vistra's Q4 Earnings Miss Estimates, Revenues Increase Y/Y

Amid the growing clean energy market and rising electricity demand from data centers, PPL Corporation PPL and FirstEnergy FE are emerging as appealing investment opportunities. As major regulated electric utilities, both companies are making strategic investments in grid infrastructure upgrades to enhance reliability and support long-term growth.
Utility service providers are benefiting from several favorable factors, including higher electricity tariffs, accretive acquisitions, cost-reduction measures and the implementation of energy-efficiency initiatives. The industry is also benefiting from ongoing efforts to enhance grid resilience against adverse weather events and from the continued transition toward cost-effective renewable energy sources.
To address the growing power requirements of data centers, providers are investing in capacity expansion. As the energy transition accelerates, U.S. electric utilities are evolving beyond traditional revenue generators. Climate-focused policies and federal incentives are reshaping the sector, positioning leading utilities for steady, low-risk growth while offering investors exposure to the expanding clean energy landscape.
Now let's compare the two stocks' fundamentals to find out which one is a better investment pick at present.
Factors in Favor of PPL Stock
PPL is expanding its operations through the construction of new generation, transmission and distribution projects. The company is also benefiting from strategic investments in clean energy generation, which are expected to support its goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. As part of its “Utility of the Future” strategy, PPL is undertaking an IT transformation to standardize systems, engineering and operations across its utilities, aiming to strengthen and automate the grid, improve storm resilience, and meet growing customer demand more efficiently.
PPL’s subsidiaries are benefiting from economic development in their service regions, driven by rising demand from data centers. The company is experiencing strong load growth supported by this trend. In Pennsylvania, nearly 25.2 GW of potential data center demand — up from 20.5 GW — is in advanced stages of development. In its Kentucky segment, the economic development queue reflects potential load growth of 9.3 GW through 2032.
Factors in Favor of FE Stock
FirstEnergy’s earnings trajectory has been stabilized by its efforts to diversify its regulated generation mix. Over the past few years, the company has successfully expanded its regulated operations and completed its transition to a fully regulated utility. FirstEnergy is seeing growing data center development across its service areas and is well positioned to capitalize on the accelerating expansion of data centers, both within its territory and across the broader region.
FE’s long-term pipeline demand has climbed to 12.9 GW, more than doubling from 6.1 GW in February 2025 and increasing 10% from 11.7 GW in November 2025. Long-term contracted demand has reached 4.1 GW, up more than 40% from 2.9 GW in February 2025 and 8% higher than 3.8 GW in November 2025.
How Do Zacks Estimates Compare for PPL & FE?
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for PPL’s 2026 earnings per share (EPS) indicates a decrease of 0.51% over the past 60 days. PPL’s long-term (three to five years) earnings growth rate is 7.34%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for FirstEnergy's 2026 EPS indicates an increase of 0.37% over the past 60 days. FE’s long-term earnings growth rate is 6.46%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
PPL & FE’s Return on Equity (ROE)
ROE measures how efficiently a company is utilizing its shareholders’ funds to generate profits. PPL’s current ROE is 9.29% compared with FirstEnergy's 10.5%.
PPL & FE’s Strategic Investment Plans
PPL has increased its planned capital expenditures to $23 billion for the 2026-2029 period from $20 billion for 2025-2028, reflecting a stronger commitment to expanding and modernizing its infrastructure, including generation, transmission and distribution assets.
FirstEnergy has a capital investment plan of $36 billion for the 2026-2030 period, reflecting an increase of nearly 30% compared to its previous five-year investment plan.
PPL & FE’s Price Performance
In the past three months, shares of PPL and FirstEnergy have increased 5.1% and 6.9%, respectively.
PPL & FE’s Dividend Yield
Utility companies generally distribute dividends and increase shareholders’ value. Currently, the dividend yield for PPL is 2.82% compared to the Zacks S&P 500 composite’s average of 1.08%, and the same for FirstEnergy is 3.52%.
Debt Position of PPL & FE
PPL and FirstEnergy have a debt-to-capital of 56.85% and 65.6%, respectively, compared with the industry’s 61.05%.
Currently, the times interest earned (TIE) ratio for PPL is 2.8, and the same for FE is 2.3. Both companies have maintained their TIE ratio at more than 1 for over a decade now. This indicates that they have enough financial flexibility to meet their near-term debt obligations.
PPL or FE: Which Is a Better Pick Right Now?
PPL is benefiting from grid expansion, clean energy investments and IT-driven modernization, while rising data center demand is driving load growth across its service regions. FirstEnergy has strengthened its fully regulated business model and diversified operations, positioning it to capitalize on accelerating data center development, supported by a rapidly expanding pipeline and growing long-term demand commitments.
Both companies have the capacity to improve further and expand their operations to meet the growing demand.
However, our choice at the moment is FirstEnergy, given its improving earnings growth, better ROE, dividend yield and price performance than PPL. Both PPL and FE stocks have a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) at present. 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 top pick is a little-known satellite-based communications firm. Space is projected to become a trillion dollar industry, and this company's customer base is growing fast. Analysts have forecasted a major revenue breakout in 2025. Of course, all our elite picks aren't winners but this one could far surpass earlier Zacks' Stocks Set to Double like Hims & Hers Health, which shot up +209%.
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
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

PPL vs. FirstEnergy: Which Utility Is Positioned for Stronger Growth?

Momentum investing is all about the idea of following a stock's recent trend, which can be in either direction. In the "long context," investors will essentially be "buying high, but hoping to sell even higher." And for investors following this methodology, taking advantage of trends in a stock's price is key; once a stock establishes a course, it is more than likely to continue moving in that direction. The goal is that once a stock heads down a fixed path, it will lead to timely and profitable trades.
While many investors like to look for momentum in stocks, this can be very tough to define. There is a lot of debate surrounding which metrics are the best to focus on and which are poor quality indicators of future performance. The Zacks Momentum Style Score, part of the Zacks Style Scores, helps address this issue for us.
Below, we take a look at FirstEnergy (FE), a company that currently holds a Momentum Style Score of A. We also talk about price change and earnings estimate revisions, two of the main aspects of the Momentum Style Score.
It's also important to note that Style Scores work as a complement to the Zacks Rank, our stock rating system that has an impressive track record of outperformance. FirstEnergy currently has a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy). Our research shows that stocks rated Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) and #2 (Buy) and Style Scores of "A or B" outperform the market over the following one-month period.
You can see the current list of Zacks #1 Rank Stocks here >>>
Set to Beat the Market?
Let's discuss some of the components of the Momentum Style Score for FE that show why this utility company shows promise as a solid momentum pick.
Looking at a stock's short-term price activity is a great way to gauge if it has momentum, since this can reflect both the current interest in a stock and if buyers or sellers have the upper hand at the moment. It is also useful to compare a security to its industry, as this can help investors pinpoint the top companies in a particular area.
For FE, shares are up 0.2% over the past week while the Zacks Utility - Electric Power industry is down 0.76% over the same time period. Shares are looking quite well from a longer time frame too, as the monthly price change of 7.85% compares favorably with the industry's 6.5% performance as well.
While any stock can see its price increase, it takes a real winner to consistently beat the market. That is why looking at longer term price metrics -- such as performance over the past three months or year -- can be useful as well. Over the past quarter, shares of FirstEnergy have risen 8.64%, and are up 17.63% in the last year. On the other hand, the S&P 500 has only moved 3.87% and 15.04%, respectively.
Investors should also pay attention to FE's average 20-day trading volume. Volume is a useful item in many ways, and the 20-day average establishes a good price-to-volume baseline; a rising stock with above average volume is generally a bullish sign, whereas a declining stock on above average volume is typically bearish. FE is currently averaging 5,287,497 shares for the last 20 days.
Earnings Outlook
The Zacks Momentum Style Score also takes into account trends in estimate revisions, in addition to price changes. Please note that estimate revision trends remain at the core of Zacks Rank as well. A nice path here can help show promise, and we have recently been seeing that with FE.
Over the past two months, 3 earnings estimates moved higher compared to none lower for the full year. These revisions helped boost FE's consensus estimate, increasing from $2.71 to $2.72 in the past 60 days. Looking at the next fiscal year, 2 estimates have moved upwards while there have been no downward revisions in the same time period.
Bottom Line
Given these factors, it shouldn't be surprising that FE is a #2 (Buy) stock and boasts a Momentum Score of A. If you're looking for a fresh pick that's set to soar in the near-term, make sure to keep FirstEnergy on your short list.
Radical New Technology Could Hand Investors Huge Gains
Quantum Computing is the next technological revolution, and it could be even more advanced than AI.
While some believed the technology was years away, it is already present and moving fast. Large hyperscalers, such as Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Oracle, and even Meta and Tesla, are scrambling to integrate quantum computing into their infrastructure.
Senior Stock Strategist Kevin Cook reveals 7 carefully selected stocks poised to dominate the quantum computing landscape in his report, Beyond AI: The Quantum Leap in Computing Power.
Kevin was among the early experts who recognized NVIDIA's enormous potential back in 2016. Now, he has keyed in on what could be "the next big thing" in quantum computing supremacy. Today, you have a rare chance to position your portfolio at the forefront of this opportunity.
See Top Quantum Stocks Now >>
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
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

What Makes FirstEnergy (FE) a Strong Momentum Stock: Buy Now?

Shares of FirstEnergy (FE) have been strong performers lately, with the stock up 7.9% over the past month. The stock hit a new 52-week high of $50.83 in the previous session. FirstEnergy has gained 12.7% since the start of the year compared to the 11.4% move for the Zacks Utilities sector and the 12.4% return for the Zacks Utility - Electric Power industry.
What's Driving the Outperformance?
The stock has an impressive record of positive earnings surprises, having beaten the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the last four quarters. In its last earnings report on February 17, 2026, FirstEnergy reported EPS of $0.53 versus consensus estimate of $0.52.
For the current fiscal year, FirstEnergy is expected to post earnings of $2.72 per share on $14.97 in revenues. This represents a 6.67% change in EPS on a -0.78% change in revenues. For the next fiscal year, the company is expected to earn $2.94 per share on $15.62 in revenues. This represents a year-over-year change of 7.88% and 4.3%, respectively.
Valuation Metrics
FirstEnergy may be at a 52-week high right now, but what might the future hold for the stock? A key aspect of this question is taking a look at valuation metrics in order to determine if the company has run ahead of itself.
On this front, we can look at the Zacks Style Scores, as they provide investors with an additional way to sort through stocks (beyond looking at the Zacks Rank of a security). These styles are represented by grades running from A to F in the categories of Value, Growth, and Momentum, while there is a combined VGM Score as well. The idea behind the style scores is to help investors pick the most appropriate Zacks Rank stocks based on their individual investment style.
FirstEnergy has a Value Score of B. The stock's Growth and Momentum Scores are C and A, respectively, giving the company a VGM Score of B.
In terms of its value breakdown, the stock currently trades at 18.5X current fiscal year EPS estimates, which is not in-line with the peer industry average of 19X. On a trailing cash flow basis, the stock currently trades at 9.6X versus its peer group's average of 9.4X. Additionally, the stock has a PEG ratio of 2.87. This isn't enough to put the company in the top echelon of all stocks we cover from a value perspective.
Zacks Rank
We also need to consider the stock's Zacks Rank, as this is even more important than the company's VGM Score. Fortunately, FirstEnergy currently has a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy) thanks to favorable earnings estimate revisions from covering analysts.
Since we recommend that investors select stocks carrying Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy) or 2 (Buy) and Style Scores of A or B, it looks as if FirstEnergy fits the bill. Thus, it seems as though FirstEnergy shares could still be poised for more gains ahead.
How Does FE Stack Up to the Competition?
Shares of FE have been soaring, and the company still appears to be a decent choice, but what about the rest of the industry? One industry peer that looks good is Consolidated Edison Inc (ED). ED has a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy) and a Value Score of B, a Growth Score of C, and a Momentum Score of B.
Earnings were strong last quarter. Consolidated Edison Inc beat our consensus estimate by 5.95%, and for the current fiscal year, ED is expected to post earnings of $6.01 per share on revenue of $17.16 billion.
Shares of Consolidated Edison Inc have gained 7.2% over the past month, and currently trade at a forward P/E of 18.67X and a P/CF of 9.29X.
The Utility - Electric Power industry is in the top 36% of all the industries we have in our universe, so it looks like there are some nice tailwinds for FE and ED, even beyond their own solid fundamental situation.
Radical New Technology Could Hand Investors Huge Gains
Quantum Computing is the next technological revolution, and it could be even more advanced than AI.
While some believed the technology was years away, it is already present and moving fast. Large hyperscalers, such as Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Oracle, and even Meta and Tesla, are scrambling to integrate quantum computing into their infrastructure.
Senior Stock Strategist Kevin Cook reveals 7 carefully selected stocks poised to dominate the quantum computing landscape in his report, Beyond AI: The Quantum Leap in Computing Power.
Kevin was among the early experts who recognized NVIDIA's enormous potential back in 2016. Now, he has keyed in on what could be "the next big thing" in quantum computing supremacy. Today, you have a rare chance to position your portfolio at the forefront of this opportunity.
See Top Quantum Stocks Now >>
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
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

FirstEnergy Corporation (FE) Soars to 52-Week High, Time to Cash Out?

PPL Corporation PPL shares have gained 2.1% over the past three months compared with the Zacks Utility-Electric Power industry’s rally of 2.6%. The company is expanding its footprint through new generation, transmission, and distribution projects, while its strategic investments in clean energy are positioning it to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Some other companies from the same industry like FirstEnergy Corp. FE and Dominion Energy D have gained 6.5% and 4.3%, respectively, during the same period. FirstEnergy continues to benefit from strategic investments, grid modernization and decarbonization efforts. FE’s ongoing investments will further fortify its transmission and distribution operations and increase grid reliability. Dominion Energy is strengthening its electric and natural gas infrastructure through long-term investments, expanding renewables to support its 2050 carbon-neutral goal, and benefiting from rising demand, particularly from large data centers.
Given the current underperformance in price, should you consider adding PPL stock to your portfolio? Let's examine the factors in detail and assess the investment prospects.
Factors Driving the Performance of PPL Stock
PPL benefits from its focus on infrastructure construction projects for generation, transmission and distribution. Customers have been experiencing far fewer outages, courtesy of the company’s initiative to further strengthen its infrastructure.
PPL is working on its “Utility of the Future” strategy and has initiated an IT transformation to implement common systems across the company, while developing standardized design and operational practices across its utilities. This includes more robust engineering and construction specifications to strengthen and automate the grid to mitigate increasing weather and storm risks. These measures are expected to enhance the resilience of PPL’s services and enable the company to meet rising customer demand more efficiently.
PPL has increased its planned capital expenditures to $23 billion for the 2026-2029 period from $20 billion for 2025-2028, reflecting a stronger commitment to expanding and modernizing its infrastructure, including generation, transmission and distribution assets. This higher investment plan is expected to drive a 10.3% compound annual growth rate in its rate base.
PPL’s subsidiaries are enjoying the benefits of economic developments in their service regions, driven by increasing demand from the data centers. The company is experiencing load growth, driven by data center demand. In Pennsylvania, nearly 25.2 GW (up from 20.5 GW) of potential data center demand is in the advanced stages. In the Kentucky segment, the Economic development queue holds potential load growth of 9.3 GW through 2032.
The company continued its leadership in driving down controllable costs for customers, exceeding its cumulative annual operating and maintenance (O&M) savings target and realizing $170 million in annualized savings from 2021 baseline. PPL achieved nearly all of its $175 million annualized savings target one year ahead of schedule.
PPL Stock’s Earnings Estimate
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 earnings per share (EPS) indicates an increase of 7.73% year over year. PPL’s long-term (three to five years) earnings growth rate is 7.34%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for FirstEnergy’s 2026 EPS indicates an increase of 6.67% year over year. FE’s long-term earnings growth rate is 6.46%. The bottom-line estimate for Dominion Energy’s 2026 EPS indicates an increase of 5.82% year over year. D’s long-term earnings growth rate is 10.26%.
PPL Stock’s Earnings Surprise History
PPL beat on earnings in two of the trailing four quarters and missed in the other two, delivering an average surprise of 0.42%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
PPL’s Dividend History
PPL has a long history of dividend payments and plans to increase its annual dividend by 4-6%, subject to approval by its board of directors. Currently, its quarterly dividend is 28.5 cents per share, resulting in an annualized dividend of $1.14 per share.
PPL’s targeted dividend payout ratio is expected to be in the range of 50-60%. The company is expected to continue increasing its dividend, supported by sustained earnings and cash flow growth. Check PPL’s dividend history here.
PPL’s ROE Lower Than the Industry
PPL’s trailing 12-month return on equity of 9.29% is lower than the industry average of 10.7%. Return on equity, a profitability measure, reflects how effectively a company utilizes its shareholders’ funds to generate income.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
PPL Stock’s Valuation
PPL is currently trading at a discount compared to its industry on a forward 12-month P/S basis.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Summing Up
PPL is strengthening its grid through major infrastructure investments, IT transformation and a higher $23 billion capex plan, driving a 10.3% rate base CAGR while improving reliability and resilience. The company is also benefiting from rising data center-driven load growth and has exceeded its cost-saving targets, achieving annualized O&M savings ahead of schedule.
Given its earnings growth projection, regular dividends and discounted valuation, new investors might consider adding PPL stock to their portfolio right now. PPL currently has a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Radical New Technology Could Hand Investors Huge Gains
Quantum Computing is the next technological revolution, and it could be even more advanced than AI.
While some believed the technology was years away, it is already present and moving fast. Large hyperscalers, such as Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Oracle, and even Meta and Tesla, are scrambling to integrate quantum computing into their infrastructure.
Senior Stock Strategist Kevin Cook reveals 7 carefully selected stocks poised to dominate the quantum computing landscape in his report, Beyond AI: The Quantum Leap in Computing Power.
Kevin was among the early experts who recognized NVIDIA's enormous potential back in 2016. Now, he has keyed in on what could be "the next big thing" in quantum computing supremacy. Today, you have a rare chance to position your portfolio at the forefront of this opportunity.
See Top Quantum Stocks Now >>
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
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

PPL Gains 2.1% in Three Months: Worth Including in Your Portfolio?

Dominion Energy Inc. D delivered fourth-quarter 2025 operating earnings of 68 cents per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 64 cents by 6.3%. The bottom line increased 17.2% from the year-ago quarter's level.
GAAP earnings were 65 cents per share compared with 14 cents in the year-ago quarter. The differences between GAAP and operating earnings for the period include gains and losses on nuclear decommissioning trust funds, mark-to-market impact of economic hedging activities and other adjustments.
Operating earnings for 2025 were $3.42 per share, up 23.5% from $2.77 in 2024.
Revenues of Dominion Energy
Revenues of $4.09 billion beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.56 billion by 14.9%. The top line increased 20.4% from $3.4 billion in the year-ago quarter.
Total revenues for 2025 were $16.51 billion, up 14.2% year over year.
Dominion Energy Inc. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
Highlights of D’s Q4 Release
Total operating expenses rose 10.9% year over year to $3.34 billion due to increased electric fuel and other energy-related purchases, purchased electricity and purchased gas compared with the year-ago period.
The company registered attractive customer growth across its Virginia and South Carolina service areas, along with commercial load growth driven by data centers. Dominion Energy Virginia connected 11 new data centers in 2025 and expects to connect a total of 13 data centers in 2026.
Interest and related charges in the quarter were up 14.6% year over year.
Operating net earnings in the reported quarter were $593 million, up 17.7% year over year.
Segmental Details of Dominion Energy
Dominion Energy Virginia: Net income was $536 million, up 21.8% year over year.
Dominion Energy South Carolina: Net income of $106 million increased 3.9% on a year-over-year basis.
Contracted Energy: Net income of $117 million rose 116.7% from $83 million in the year-ago quarter.
Corporate and Other: Net loss of $166 million was wider than the loss of $92 million in the prior-year quarter.
Dominion Energy’s Financial Highlights
Current assets as of Dec. 31, 2025, were $8.07 billion compared with $6.61 billion as of Dec. 31, 2024.
Total long-term debt as of Dec. 31, 2025, was $44.08 billion, up from $37.53 billion as of Dec. 31, 2024.
In 2025, cash from operating activities was $5.36 billion compared with $5.02 billion in the year-ago period.
Guidance of Dominion Energy
Dominion Energy initiated its 2026 operating earnings guidance in the range of $3.45 to $3.69. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings is pegged at $3.60 per share, which is higher than the midpoint of the company’s guided range.
D expects its long-term annual operating earnings growth guidance of 5-7% through 2030. The company plans to invest $65 billion in the 2026-2030 time period.
Dominion Energy’s Zacks Rank
Currently, Dominion Energy has a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell).
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Recent Releases
IDACORP, Inc. IDA reported fourth-quarter 2025 earnings of 78 cents per share, which topped the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 74 cents by 5.4%. The company’s earnings improved 11.4% from 70 cents in the year-ago quarter.
Total revenues in the fourth quarter of 2025 were $405.2 million, which lagged the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $417 million by 2.9%. The metric climbed 1.8% from $398.1 million in the year-ago quarter.
Ameren Corporation AEE posted fourth-quarter 2025 earnings of 78 cents per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 77 cents by 1.3%. The bottom line increased 1.3% from the year-ago quarter’s recorded figure.
Total revenues came in at $1.78 billion in the reported quarter, down 8.2% year over year. The top line missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.09 billion by 14.9%.
FirstEnergy Corp. FE registered fourth-quarter 2025 operating earnings of 53 cents per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 52 cents by 1.92%. In the year-ago quarter, the company reported earnings of 67 cents.
Operating revenues of $3.78 billion surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.25 billion by 16.9%. The top line increased 19.6% from $3.18 billion in the year-ago quarter.
5 Stocks Set to Double
Each was handpicked by a Zacks expert as the favorite stock to gain +100% or more in the months ahead. They include
Stock #1: A Disruptive Force with Notable Growth and Resilience
Stock #2: Bullish Signs Signaling to Buy the Dip
Stock #3: One of the Most Compelling Investments in the Market
Stock #4: Leader In a Red-Hot Industry Poised for Growth
Stock #5: Modern Omni-Channel Platform Coiled to Spring
Most of the stocks in this report are flying under Wall Street radar, which provides a great opportunity to get in on the ground floor. While not all picks can be winners, previous recommendations have soared +171%, +209% and +232%.
See Our Newest 5 Stocks Set to Double Picks >>
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
IDACORP, Inc. (IDA) : Free Stock Analysis Report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

FirstEnergy Corp.

Options Strategies