The Southern Company, through its subsidiaries, engages in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity. The company also develops, constructs, acquires, owns, and manages power generation assets, including renewable energy projects and sells electricity in the wholesale market; and distributes natural gas in Illinois, Georgia, Virginia, and Tennessee, as well as provides gas marketing services, gas distribution operations, and gas pipeline investments operations. In addition, it owns and operates nuclear, coal, hydro, cogeneration, solar, wind, battery storage, and fuel cell facilities. Further, the constructs, operates, and maintains approximately 77,900 miles of natural gas pipelines and 14 storage facilities with total capacity of 157 Bcf to provide natural gas to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. The company serves approximately 8.9 million electric and gas utility customers. Further, it develops distributed energy and resilience solutions; deploys microgrids for commercial, industrial, governmental, and utility customers; and offers digital wireless communications and fiber optics services. The Southern Company was incorporated in 1945 and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.

Southern Company looks like a high-quality defensive asset, but no longer a cheap one: the business remains profitable, yet its valuation is noticeably ahead of the sector. A P/E of 24.67, P/S of 3.62, and P/B of 2.78 are materially above the sector median, which limits further upside potential without an acceleration in earnings growth. At the same time, margins are strong: gross, operating, and net margins are above industry benchmarks, while an ROE of 11.3% and return on tangible equity of 13.17% confirm acceptable capital returns for the utilities sector. On the other hand, ROI of 4.21% is below the median, suggesting less-than-ideal efficiency in deploying capital into infrastructure-intensive assets. The balance sheet remains stretched: a debt/equity ratio of 1.69 is above the industry level, a quick ratio of 0.45 and current ratio of 0.65 indicate weak short-term liquidity, and long-term debt continues to rise. Revenue and assets are increasing, supporting the scale of the business, but TTM net income has declined noticeably compared with the stronger quarters of last year, so the quality of current growth does not look linear. EBITDA and operating profit remain significant in absolute terms, but year-over-year dynamics do not show enough acceleration to justify a premium valuation. Dividend yield in the latest TTM looks weak, and historically it was around 0.8%, so the dividend argument does not currently provide meaningful support to the stock price. Overall, the fundamentals are rather neutral-to-positive in terms of business quality, but negative for an aggressive target revision due to the high valuation and debt burden. For an investor, this means SO remains a reliable utilities story with stable margins, but the current price already reflects many of these strengths. Therefore, the target forecast should be slightly lowered, while maintaining a moderately bullish view only if earnings improve and debt pressure eases.

Southern Company (The)

Средний индекс, значительно упал. Быки в растерянности.

Medium index, significantly down. The bulls are confused.

Слабый индекс, значительно упал. Рынок на стороне быков.

Weak index, significantly down. The market is on the bulls' side.

Слабый индекс, незначительно упал. Приток средств в лонги остался положительным, но снизился.

Weak index, slightly down. The inflow of funds into longs remained positive, but decreased.

SO remains a high-quality utility story with strong margins, but its high valuation, weak liquidity, and rising debt limit the upside.

The following companies are expected to report earnings prior to market open on 07/30/2026. Visit our Earnings Calendar for a full list of expected earnings releases.
Mastercard Incorporated (MA)is reporting for the quarter ending June 30, 2026. The financial transactions company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 12 analysts that follow the stock is $4.77. This value represents a 14.94% increase compared to the same quarter last year. In the past year MA has beat the expectations every quarter. The highest one was in the 1st calendar quarter where they beat the consensus by 4.55%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for MA is 28.70 vs. an industry ratio of 25.30, implying that they will have a higher earnings growth than their competitors in the same industry.
Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (BMY)is reporting for the quarter ending June 30, 2026. The biomedical (gene) company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 8 analysts that follow the stock is $1.59. This value represents a 8.90% increase compared to the same quarter last year. In the past year BMY has beat the expectations every quarter. The highest one was in the 1st calendar quarter where they beat the consensus by 9.72%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for BMY is 10.03 vs. an industry ratio of -10.80, implying that they will have a higher earnings growth than their competitors in the same industry.
Altria Group (MO)is reporting for the quarter ending June 30, 2026. The tobacco company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 4 analysts that follow the stock is $1.50. This value represents a 4.17% increase compared to the same quarter last year. MO missed the consensus earnings per share in the 4th calendar quarter of 2025 by -0.76%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for MO is 13.13 vs. an industry ratio of 17.90.
Sanofi (SNY)is reporting for the quarter ending June 30, 2026. The large cap pharmaceutical company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 4 analysts that follow the stock is $1.10. This value represents a 22.22% increase compared to the same quarter last year. SNY missed the consensus earnings per share in the 2nd calendar quarter of 2025 by -6.25%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for SNY is 9.18 vs. an industry ratio of 19.50.
Southern Company (SO)is reporting for the quarter ending June 30, 2026. The electric power utilities company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 6 analysts that follow the stock is $1.00. This value represents a 9.89% increase compared to the same quarter last year. SO missed the consensus earnings per share in the 4th calendar quarter of 2025 by -1.79%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for SO is 21.13 vs. an industry ratio of 19.00, implying that they will have a higher earnings growth than their competitors in the same industry.
Trane Technologies plc (TT)is reporting for the quarter ending June 30, 2026. The technology services company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 4 analysts that follow the stock is $4.27. This value represents a 10.05% increase compared to the same quarter last year. In the past year TT has beat the expectations every quarter. The highest one was in the 1st calendar quarter where they beat the consensus by 3.95%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for TT is 31.57 vs. an industry ratio of 10.20, implying that they will have a higher earnings growth than their competitors in the same industry.
KKR & Co. Inc. (KKR)is reporting for the quarter ending June 30, 2026. The finance/investment management company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 6 analysts that follow the stock is $1.27. This value represents a 27.00% increase compared to the same quarter last year. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for KKR is 18.53 vs. an industry ratio of 14.70, implying that they will have a higher earnings growth than their competitors in the same industry.
Valero Energy Corporation (VLO)is reporting for the quarter ending June 30, 2026. The oil refining company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 5 analysts that follow the stock is $9.87. This value represents a 332.89% increase compared to the same quarter last year. In the past year VLO has beat the expectations every quarter. The highest one was in the 1st calendar quarter where they beat the consensus by 37.46%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for VLO is 8.16 vs. an industry ratio of 1.60, implying that they will have a higher earnings growth than their competitors in the same industry.
Quanta Services, Inc. (PWR)is reporting for the quarter ending June 30, 2026. The engineering company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 7 analysts that follow the stock is $3.03. This value represents a 34.67% increase compared to the same quarter last year. In the past year PWR has beat the expectations every quarter. The highest one was in the 1st calendar quarter where they beat the consensus by 34.66%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for PWR is 45.97 vs. an industry ratio of 9.80, implying that they will have a higher earnings growth than their competitors in the same industry.
Intercontinental Exchange Inc. (ICE)is reporting for the quarter ending June 30, 2026. The securities exchange company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 7 analysts that follow the stock is $1.84. This value represents a 1.66% increase compared to the same quarter last year. In the past year ICE has beat the expectations every quarter. The highest one was in the 1st calendar quarter where they beat the consensus by 3.52%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for ICE is 19.07 vs. an industry ratio of 22.80.
Enterprise Products Partners L.P. (EPD)is reporting for the quarter ending June 30, 2026. The oil/gas company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 5 analysts that follow the stock is $0.74. This value represents a 12.12% increase compared to the same quarter last year. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for EPD is 13.18 vs. an industry ratio of 5.40, implying that they will have a higher earnings growth than their competitors in the same industry.
The Cigna Group (CI)is reporting for the quarter ending June 30, 2026. The hmo company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 6 analysts that follow the stock is $7.58. This value represents a 5.28% increase compared to the same quarter last year. In the past year CI has beat the expectations every quarter. The highest one was in the 1st calendar quarter where they beat the consensus by 2.23%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for CI is 9.91 vs. an industry ratio of 20.10.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Pre-Market Earnings Report for July 30, 2026 : MA, BMY, MO, SNY, SO, TT, KKR, VLO, PWR, ICE, EPD, CI

Edison International EIX is scheduled to release second-quarter 2026 results on July 30, after market close. The company delivered an earnings surprise of 7.58% in the last reported quarter.
Let’s discuss the factors that are likely to be reflected in the upcoming quarterly results.
Factors That are Likely to Have Impacted EIX’s Q2 Performance
Edison International’s continued investments in grid modernization, wildfire mitigation and infrastructure upgrades are likely to have supported its second-quarter performance. Ongoing spending on system hardening and grid improvement projects is expected to have strengthened operational reliability and supported the company’s long-term growth.
Strong revenue expectations, supported by the continued implementation of Southern California Edison’s approved General Rate Case, are likely to have contributed to the company’s earnings growth in the to-be-reported quarter. Continued recovery of authorized investments is also expected to have supported financial performance.
Increasing electricity demand driven by electrification is likely to have supported Edison International’s revenues during the second quarter. Continued rate-base growth is also expected to have aided the company’s overall performance.
Ongoing cost-control measures and operational efficiency initiatives are likely to have strengthened Edison International’s overall earnings performance in the second quarter.
Edison International Price and EPS Surprise
EIX’s Q2 Expectations
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings is pegged at $1.02 per share, indicating a year-over-year increase of 5.2%.
The same for revenues is pinned at $4.72 billion, implying 3.9% growth year over year.
What Our Quantitative Model Predicts
Our proven model predicts an earnings beat for Edison International this time around. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the odds of an earnings beat, which is the case here, as you will see below.
Earnings ESP: The company’s Earnings ESP is +4.66%. You can uncover the best stocks before they’re reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
Zacks Rank: Currently, Edison International carries a Zacks Rank of 2.
Other Stocks to Consider
Investors may consider the following players from the same industry, as these also have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this reporting cycle.
Ameren AEE is slated to report its second-quarter 2026 results on July 30, after market close. It has an Earnings ESP of +0.19% and a Zacks Rank of 2 at present.
AEE’s long-term (three to five years) earnings growth rate is 7.7%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings is pegged at $1.08 per share, which suggests a year-over-year rise of 6.9%.
The Southern Company SO is scheduled to report its second-quarter 2026 results on July 30, before market open. It has an Earnings ESP of +1.16% and a Zacks Rank of 3 at present.
SO’s long-term earnings growth rate is 11.4%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings stands at $1.01 per share, which implies a year-over-year increase of 11%.
Vistra VST is slated to report its second-quarter 2026 results on Aug. 7, before market open. It has an Earnings ESP of +19.75% and a Zacks Rank of 3 at present.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenues stands at $6.38 billion, which suggests a year-over-year rise of 50.1%. The consensus estimate for earnings stands at $2.41 per share, which suggests a year-over-year rise of 138.6%.
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Edison International to Release Q2 Earnings: What's in Store?

Xcel Energy XEL is set to report second-quarter 2026 earnings on July 30, before the market opens. The company reported earnings in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate in the last reported quarter.
Let us discuss the factors that are likely to be reflected in the upcoming quarterly results.
Q2 Expectations for XEL
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings is pegged at 79 cents, implying a year-over-year increase of 5.33%.
The consensus estimate for revenues is pinned at $3.60 billion, indicating an increase of 9.44% from the year-ago reported number.
Factors Likely to Have Impacted XEL’s Q2 Earnings
Xcel Energy's second-quarter 2026 performance is likely to have benefited from higher electric and natural gas demand, along with the implementation of new rates across its regulated service territories. Growing electricity demand from data centers is also likely to have contributed to the company's second-quarter earnings growth.
Xcel Energy's strategic capital investments in infrastructure, including transmission, distribution and generation assets, are likely to have supported the company’s second-quarter earnings. On April 14, 2026, the company placed into service a 150-megawatt solar facility at Plant X near Earth, TX and battery energy storage systems at Cunningham Generating Station in New Mexico.
The new projects placed into service during the second quarter are likely to have strengthened the company's renewable generation and energy storage portfolio, enhanced grid reliability and expanded its regulated asset base, thereby supporting earnings growth. The company is also expected to have gained from rising demand across its expanding electric and natural gas customer base.
However, higher financing costs may partially offset the positives during the second quarter.
What Our Quantitative Model Predicts for XEL
Our proven model does not conclusively predict an earnings beat for Xcel Energy this time around. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the odds of an earnings beat. That is not the case here, as you will see below.
XEL’s Earnings ESP: The company has an Earnings ESP of -0.06% at present. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they’re reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
XEL’s Zacks Rank: Currently, Xcel Energy carries a Zacks Rank #3. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Xcel Energy Inc. Price and EPS Surprise
Stocks to Consider
Investors may consider the following players from the same industry, as these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this reporting cycle.
Ameren AEE is set to report second-quarter results on July 31 and is likely to have come up with an earnings beat. It has an Earnings ESP of +0.19% and a Zacks Rank #2 at present.
AEE’s long-term (three to five years) earnings growth rate is 7.68%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for second-quarter EPS is pinned at $1.08, which implies a year-over-year increase of 6.93%.
Edison International EIX is set to report second-quarter results on July 30 and is likely to have come up with an earnings beat. It has an Earnings ESP of +4.66% and a Zacks Rank #2 at present.
EIX’s long-term earnings growth rate is 2.10%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for second-quarter EPS is pinned at $1.02, which implies a year-over-year increase of 5.15%.
The Southern Company SO is scheduled to report second-quarter results on July 30 and is likely to have come up with an earnings beat. It has an Earnings ESP of +1.16% and a Zacks Rank #3 at present.
SO’s long-term earnings growth rate is 11.36%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for second-quarter EPS is pinned at $1.01, which implies a year-over-year increase of 10.99%.
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Xcel Energy to Post Q2 Earnings: What's in Store for the Stock?

American Electric Power Company, Inc. AEP is slated to release second-quarter 2026 results on July 30, before market open. In the last reported quarter, the company delivered an earnings surprise of 5.81%.
Let’s discuss the factors that are likely to be reflected in the upcoming quarterly results.
Factors to Note Ahead of AEP’s Q2 Earnings
AEP’s second-quarter earnings are expected to have benefited from its position as a high-quality, pure-play electric utility operating in growth regions. The company’s focus on providing reliable, affordable power and leveraging its scale to secure critical resources to meet increasing customer demand across its service territories is likely to have supported its performance.
American Electric is expected to have benefited from favorable rate revisions implemented in previous quarters, along with industrial load growth, rising data center demand and stronger normalized retail sales, supported by economic growth across AEP’s operating states.
Higher operation and maintenance expenses and increased interest expenses are likely to have offset some of the gains in the company’s second-quarter earnings. However, strong revenue growth is expected to have supported AEP’s overall bottom-line performance.
AEP’s Q2 Expectations
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for AEP’s sales is pegged at $5.26 billion, which indicates year-over-year growth of 3.4%.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings is pegged at $1.49 per share, which suggests a year-over-year rise of 4.2%.
What the Zacks Model Unveils for AEP
Our proven model does not conclusively predict an earnings beat for American Electric this time. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the odds of an earnings beat, which is not the case here, as you will see below.
American Electric Power Company, Inc. Price and EPS Surprise
Earnings ESP: AEP has an Earnings ESP of -0.36%. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they’re reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
Zacks Rank: Currently, American Electric carries a Zacks Rank #3. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Stocks to Consider
Here, we have mentioned a few players from the same industry that have the right combination of elements to beat earnings in the upcoming releases:
Ameren Corporation AEE is scheduled to report its second-quarter 2026 results on July 30, after market close. It has an Earnings ESP of +0.19% and a Zacks Rank of 2 at present.
AEE’s long-term (three to five years) earnings growth rate is 7.68%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings stands at $1.08 per share, which implies a year-over-year increase of 6.9%.
The Southern Company SO is set to report its second-quarter 2026 results on July 30, before market open. It has an Earnings ESP of +1.16% and a Zacks Rank of 3 at present.
SO’s long-term earnings growth rate is 11.15%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings stands at $1.01 per share, which calls for a year-over-year jump of 11%.
Edison International EIX is slated to report its second-quarter 2026 results on July 30, after market close. It has an Earnings ESP of +4.66% and a Zacks Rank of 2 at present.
EIX’s long-term earnings growth rate is 2.10%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings is pegged at $1.02 per share, which suggests a year-over-year rise of 5.2%.
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American Electric Power to Release Q2 Earnings: Here's What to Expect

Alliant Energy Corporation LNT is scheduled to release second-quarter 2026 results on July 30, after market close. In the last reported quarter, the company’s earnings per share came in line with estimates.
Let’s discuss the factors that are likely to be reflected in the upcoming quarterly results.
Factors Likely to Have Influenced LNT’s Q2 Earnings
Alliant Energy’s strategic investments in electric distribution, aimed at advancing electrification and distributed generation, are likely to have strengthened service reliability, improved customer experience and supported its bottom-line performance in the to-be-reported quarter.
Customers across Alliant Energy’s service territories benefit from electric rates that remain below the national average, making the company’s services more attractive to prospective customers. Alliant Energy continues to expand its customer base, and the resulting increase in demand is expected to have supported its revenue performance in the quarter to be reported.
Solid economic growth, expanding demand from data centers and the company’s ongoing focus on cost discipline are expected to have supported its second-quarter earnings.
However, higher financing costs may have partially offset some of the positives in the to-be-reported quarter.
Q2 Expectations for LNT
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenues is pinned at $1 billion, implying a year-over-year rise of 4.3%.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings is pegged at 66 cents per share, indicating a year-over-year decrease of 2.9%.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for total electricity delivered is pegged at 7,837.56 megawatt-hours (MWh), up 0.9% year over year.
What Our Quantitative Model Predicts for LNT
Our proven model does not conclusively predict an earnings beat for Alliant Energy this time. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the odds of an earnings beat, which is not the case here, as you will see below.
Alliant Energy Corporation Price and EPS Surprise
Earnings ESP: The company’s Earnings ESP is -11.68%. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they’re reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
Zacks Rank: Currently, Alliant Energy carries a Zacks Rank #3. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Stocks to Consider
Investors may consider the following players from the same industry, as these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this reporting cycle.
Ameren Corporation AEE is scheduled to report its second-quarter 2026 results on July 30, after market close. It has an Earnings ESP of +0.19% and a Zacks Rank of 2 at present.
AEE’s long-term (three to five years) earnings growth rate is 7.68%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings stands at $1.08 per share, which implies a year-over-year increase of 6.9%.
The Southern Company SO is set to report its second-quarter 2026 results on July 30, before market open. It has an Earnings ESP of +1.16% and a Zacks Rank of 3 at present.
SO’s long-term earnings growth rate is 11.15%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings stands at $1.01 per share, which calls for a year-over-year jump of 11%.
Edison International EIX is slated to report its second-quarter 2026 results on July 30, after market close. It has an Earnings ESP of +4.66% and a Zacks Rank of 2 at present.
EIX’s long-term earnings growth rate is 2.10%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings is pegged at $1.02 per share, which suggests a year-over-year rise of 5.2%.
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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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Alliant Energy Gears Up to Report Q2 Earnings: Here's What to Expect

The Zacks Utilities sector’s second-quarter 2026 earnings are likely to have benefited from the rapid expansion of AI and hyperscale data centers that are fueling unprecedented electricity demand. Reshoring of manufacturing is creating additional baseload power needs and increasing adoption of behind-the-meter and co-located power agreements with major technology companies is also creating new revenue opportunities for utilities. According to the latest Earnings Preview, the sector’s earnings are projected to increase 11.1% on revenue growth of 7.3%.
With the assistance of the Zacks Stock Screener, we have identified five utilities, namely Ameren Corporation AEE, Edison International EIX, Southwest Gas Corporation SWX, The Southern Company SO and Vistra Corp. VST, which are poised to beat on earnings this reporting cycle.
These stocks have the ideal combination of two ingredients — a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy), or 3 (Hold) — to surpass expectations. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they are reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
Major Catalysts Shaping Utility Stocks’ Q2 Performance
Utilities are expected to have benefited from rising electricity demand, driven by the rapid expansion of AI-powered data centers, growing consumption from commercial and industrial customers, and the reshoring of manufacturing activities amid geopolitical uncertainty. These trends are likely to have supported revenue growth in the upcoming quarter.
Utility companies continue to benefit from favorable factors such as higher electricity rates, strategic acquisitions, disciplined cost-management initiatives and the expansion of energy-efficiency programs. Ongoing investments in grid resilience to withstand extreme weather events, coupled with the increasing adoption of cost-effective renewable energy resources, are also expected to have supported overall performance.
Utilities have been steadily deploying smart meters, expanding transmission and distribution infrastructure, undergrounding lines impacted by weather and enhancing grid maintenance to improve operational efficiency, strengthen customer service and optimize grid management. These investments are expected to reduce operating costs while supporting long-term revenue growth.
Improving economic activity across utilities' service territories has been driving higher demand for electricity, providing further support for revenue growth and overall financial performance. Adoption of cost efficiency measures, use of new technology, low interest rates and new electric and water rates might have benefited the performance of the utilities.
Utility Stocks Positioned for Strong Earnings Performance
Ameren generates and distributes electricity and natural gas to residential, commercial, industrial and wholesale customers across Missouri and Illinois. Its ongoing investments in growth initiatives, infrastructure modernization and renewable energy are expected to enhance service reliability while supporting long-term earnings growth. Ameren plans to invest $31.8 billion in the 2026-2030 period to strengthen its electric transmission, distribution and generation infrastructure.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its second-quarter earnings is pegged at $1.08 per share, indicating an increase of 6.93% from the year-ago reported figure. AEE currently has an Earnings ESP of +0.19% and a Zacks Rank #2. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Ameren Corporation Price and EPS Surprise
Edison International generates and distributes electricity across a roughly 50,000-square-mile service territory spanning Southern, Central and coastal California, serving residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural, public-sector and other customers. The company aims to invest $38-$41 billion during 2026-2030 to strengthen its infrastructure.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its second-quarter earnings is pegged at $1.02 per share, indicating an increase of 5.15% from the year-ago reported figure. EIX currently has an Earnings ESP of +4.66% and a Zacks Rank #2.
Edison International Price and EPS Surprise
Southwest Gas is a regulated utility providing natural gas services and operates a pipeline transmission system through its wholly owned subsidiary, Paiute Pipeline Company. The company benefits from strong economic growth across its service areas. SWX expects a capital investment of $6.3 billion in 2026-2030, which includes nearly 73% related to it and 27% related to the Great Basin project.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its second-quarter earnings is pegged at 47 cents per share, indicating a decline of 11.32% from the year-ago reported figure. SWX currently has an Earnings ESP of +5.64% and a Zacks Rank #2.
Southwest Gas Corporation Price and EPS Surprise
The Southern Company deals with the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity. The company's less-volatile, recession-proof business model presents a unique opportunity to earn high returns. Southern Company’s prospective pipeline exceeds 75 gigawatts of potential large-load projects, while 23 gigawatts are already contracted or in advanced stages. The company expects a capital investment of $78.1 billion in the 2026-2030 period to further strengthen its operations.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its second-quarter earnings is pegged at $1.01 per share, indicating an increase of 10.99% from the year-ago reported figure. SO currently has an Earnings ESP of +1.16% and a Zacks Rank #3.
Southern Company (The) Price and EPS Surprise
Vistra is an integrated power company operating in competitive U.S. markets, supplying electricity and natural gas to residential, commercial and industrial customers, while managing a diversified generation fleet that supports and hedges its retail operations. Long-term contracts with high-quality partners strengthen stability.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its second-quarter earnings is pegged at $2.41 per share, indicating an increase of 138.61% from the year-ago reported figure. VST currently has an Earnings ESP of +19.75% and a Zacks Rank #3.
Vistra Corp. Price and EPS Surprise
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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5 Utility Stocks Poised to Outperform Q2 Earnings Estimates

Entergy Corporation ETR is scheduled to release its second-quarter 2026 earnings on July 29, before market open. The company delivered a negative earnings surprise of 3.37% in the last reported quarter.
Let’s discuss the factors that are likely to be reflected in the upcoming quarterly results.
Factors to Consider Ahead of ETR’s Q2 Results
Most of Entergy’s service regions experienced warmer-than-normal weather conditions in the second quarter. Such a weather pattern is likely to have boosted electricity demand from its customers for cooling purposes this summer. This might have improved Entergy’s top-line performance.
Higher retail and industrial sales, coupled with rising demand from data centers across its service territories, are likely to have supported its quarterly performance.
However, high winds, flash flooding and lightning in June caused widespread power outages across Louisiana. Although the company’s crews restored power to the majority of impacted customers, the related repair and restoration efforts may have increased operation and maintenance expenses in the to-be-reported quarter.
Q2 Expectations for Entergy
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for sales is pegged at $3.54 billion, which indicates year-over-year growth of 6.2%.
The consensus estimate for earnings per share stands at 96 cents, which implies a year-over-year decline of 8.6%.
What the Zacks Model Unveils for Entergy
Our proven model does not conclusively predict an earnings beat for ETR this time. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the odds of an earnings beat, which is not the case here, as you will see below.
Entergy Corporation Price and EPS Surprise
Earnings ESP: ETR has an Earnings ESP of -3.82%. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they’re reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
Zacks Rank: Currently, ETR carries a Zacks Rank #3. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Stocks to Consider
Investors may consider the following players from the same industry, as these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this reporting cycle.
Ameren Corporation AEE is scheduled to report its second-quarter 2026 results on July 30, after market close. It has an Earnings ESP of +0.19% and a Zacks Rank of 2 at present.
AEE’s long-term (three to five years) earnings growth rate is 7.68%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings stands at $1.08 per share, which implies a year-over-year increase of 6.9%.
Edison International EIX is slated to report its second-quarter 2026 results on July 30, after market close. It has an Earnings ESP of +4.66% and a Zacks Rank of 2 at present.
EIX’s long-term earnings growth rate is 2.10%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings is pegged at $1.02 per share, which suggests a year-over-year rise of 5.2%.
The Southern Company SO is set to report its second-quarter 2026 results on July 30, before market open. It has an Earnings ESP of +1.16% and a Zacks Rank of 3 at present.
SO’s long-term earnings growth rate is 11.15%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings stands at $1.01 per share, which calls for a year-over-year jump of 11%.
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Entergy Gears Up to Report Q2 Earnings: Here's What to Expect

Exelon Corporation EXC is scheduled to release second-quarter 2026 results on July 30, before market open. The company delivered an earnings surprise of 2.25% in the last reported quarter.
Let’s discuss the factors that are likely to be reflected in the upcoming quarterly results.
Key Factors Likely to Influence EXC’s Q2 Results
Exelon’s second-quarter earnings are expected to have witnessed the benefits of lower exposure to volumetric risk, with nearly 76% of its distribution revenues being decoupled.
Gas and electric rates rolled out across EXC’s service territories in prior quarters are likely to have provided additional support. The company may have additionally gained from its significant presence in densely populated urban areas and its focus on maintaining customer affordability through innovation and effective cost management.
Strong economic growth, increasing demand from data centers, rising electrification and electric vehicle adoption, greater renewable energy integration and ongoing energy efficiency initiatives are expected to have supported Exelon’s quarterly performance.
However, multiple severe thunderstorms, accompanied by strong winds in April, caused widespread power outages across Northern Illinois. Although the company’s crews restored power to the majority of impacted customers, the related repair and restoration efforts are likely to have resulted in higher overall expenses.
Q2 Expectations for EXC
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings is pegged at 43 cents per share, which implies a year-over-year rise of 10.3%.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenues is pinned at $5.72 billion, indicating an increase of 5.3% from the year-ago reported number.
What Our Quantitative Model Predicts for EXC
Our proven model does not conclusively predict an earnings beat for Exelon this time. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the odds of an earnings beat, which is not the case here, as you will see below.
Exelon Corporation Price and EPS Surprise
Earnings ESP: The company’s Earnings ESP is -1.23%. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they’re reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
Zacks Rank: Currently, Exelon carries a Zacks Rank #2. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Stocks to Consider
Investors may consider the following players from the same industry, as these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this reporting cycle.
Ameren Corporation AEE is scheduled to report its second-quarter 2026 results on July 30, after market close. It has an Earnings ESP of +0.19% and a Zacks Rank of 2 at present.
AEE’s long-term (three to five years) earnings growth rate is 7.68%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings stands at $1.08 per share, which implies a year-over-year increase of 6.9%.
Edison International EIX is slated to report its second-quarter 2026 results on July 30, after market close. It has an Earnings ESP of +4.66% and a Zacks Rank of 2 at present.
EIX’s long-term earnings growth rate is 2.10%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings is pegged at $1.02 per share, which suggests a year-over-year rise of 5.2%.
The Southern Company SO is set to report its second-quarter 2026 results on July 30, before market open. It has an Earnings ESP of +1.16% and a Zacks Rank of 3 at present.
SO’s long-term earnings growth rate is 11.15%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings stands at $1.01 per share, which calls for a year-over-year jump of 11%.
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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%.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Exelon Gears Up to Report Q2 Earnings: Here's What You Need to Know

FirstEnergy Corporation FE is scheduled to release second-quarter 2026 results on July 28, after market close. The company reported earnings in line with Zacks consensus estimates in the latest reported quarter.
Let’s discuss the factors that are likely to be reflected in the upcoming quarterly results.
FE’s Q2 Expectations
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings is pegged at 49 cents per share, indicating a year-over-year decline of 5.77%.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenues is pinned at $3.59 billion, implying a 6.28% improvement year over year.
Factors Likely to Have Impacted FE’s Q2 Performance
FirstEnergy’s second-quarter earnings are expected to have been supported by higher load growth, reflecting increased electricity demand from data centers and industrial users. Strong economic activity across FE's service territory is expected to have driven earnings in the to-be-reported quarter. The company's growing customer base and continued investment in its transmission and distribution network are also likely to have contributed to its performance in the second quarter.
FirstEnergy continues to invest in infrastructure modernization, grid upgrades and asset replacement under its Energize365 program. The company's operational efficiency and robust infrastructure are expected to have supported rising electricity demand, contributing positively to second-quarter earnings. FE's diversified service territory is also likely to have generated fresh demand, while its low-risk investment plan is expected to have boosted second-quarter earnings.
However, higher operation and maintenance expenses, along with storm restoration costs, are likely to have partially offset the company's second-quarter earnings growth.
What Our Quantitative Model Predicts for FE
Our proven model does not conclusively predict an earnings beat for FirstEnergy this time around. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the odds of an earnings beat, which is not the case here as you will see below.
Earnings ESP: The company’s Earnings ESP is -3.34%. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they’re reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
Zacks Rank: Currently, FirstEnergy has a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
FirstEnergy Corporation Price and EPS Surprise
Stocks to Consider
Investors may consider the following players from the same sector, as these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this reporting cycle.
Edison International EIX is set to report second-quarter results on July 30 and is likely to have come up with an earnings beat. It has an Earnings ESP of +4.66% and a Zacks Rank #2 at present.
EIX’s long-term earnings growth rate is 2.10%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for second-quarter EPS is pinned at $1.02 per share, which implies a year-over-year increase of 5.15%.
The Southern Company SO is scheduled to report second-quarter results on July 30 and is likely to have come up with an earnings beat. It has an Earnings ESP of +2.54% and a Zacks Rank #3
at present.
SO’s long-term earnings growth rate is 11.15%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for second-quarter EPS is pinned at $1.02 per share, which implies a year-over-year increase of 12.09%.
Southwest Gas SWXis scheduled to report second-quarter results on Aug. 5 and is likely to have come up with an earnings beat. It has an Earnings ESP of +5.64% and a Zacks Rank #2 at present.
SWX’s long-term earnings growth rate is 9.89%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for second-quarter EPS is pinned at 47cents per share, which implies a year-over-year decrease of 11.32%.
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FirstEnergy to Report Q2 Earnings: What's in Store for the Stock?

Looking today at week-over-week shares outstanding changes among the universe of ETFs covered at ETF Channel, one standout is the State Street Utilities Select Sector SPDR ETF (Symbol: XLU) where we have detected an approximate $170.0 million dollar outflow -- that's a 0.7% decrease week over week (from 519,798,320 to 516,098,320). Among the largest underlying components of XLU, in trading today Southern Company (Symbol: SO) is up about 0.1%, Constellation Energy Corp (Symbol: CEG) is down about 0.3%, and American Electric Power Co Inc (Symbol: AEP) is higher by about 0.7%. For a complete list of holdings, visit the XLU Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of XLU, versus its 200 day moving average:
Looking at the chart above, XLU's low point in its 52 week range is $41.15 per share, with $47.80 as the 52 week high point — that compares with a last trade of $46.05. 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 XLU Research:
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Indicator	TTM Median
P/E	24.67 20.80
Price/Sales	3.62 2.65
P/B	2.78 1.69
P/FCF	0.00 16.90

Indicator	TTM Median
ROE	11.30 9.59
ROA	2.84 2.93
ROI	4.21 4.58
Net Worth	107.98 6.24
Quick Ratio	0.45 0.75
Current Ratio	0.65 0.90

Indicator	TTM Median
Net Profit Margin	14.46 12.52
Operating Margin	24.65 20.99
Gross Margin	72.38 63.43
Return on tangible equity	13.17 11.30

Indicator	TTM Median
EPS	1.32 0.67
EPS Forecast	1.21 0.72
Revenue	8.40B 599.50M
Gross Profit	5.56B —
EBITDA	2.52B —

Southern Company (The)

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