On Thursday, Jefferies initiated coverage on Fortis Inc . (TSX:FTS:CN) (NYSE: FTS), a North American diversified electric and gas utility company with a market capitalization of $21.91 billion, with a Hold rating. The firm set a price target of C$67.00 for the stock, indicating a tempered view on its near-term growth prospects. Currently trading at $43.89, the stock is near its 52-week high of $46.06. The new rating and price target were announced as the company is recognized for its strong position and potential incremental capital expenditure (capex) upside opportunities.
The research firm noted Fortis (NYSE:FTS)’s premium valuation, currently trading at a P/E ratio of 19.46x, is justified by its incremental capex upside opportunities. However, they also highlighted concerns regarding the company’s limited balance sheet flexibility, which might be impacted by foreign exchange fluctuations and possible tax reforms. According to InvestingPro analysis, which shows several more detailed insights, the stock appears overvalued relative to its Fair Value. These factors contribute to a cautious outlook on the stock’s potential for valuation multiple expansion.
Jefferies forecasts a roughly 5% earnings per share (EPS) compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for Fortis through 2029, assuming stable foreign exchange rates. This projection aligns closely with the consensus estimate of 5.1% EPS CAGR. The firm’s analysis suggests that the current valuation leaves little room for an increase in the stock’s multiple. InvestingPro data reveals that Fortis has maintained an impressive track record of raising its dividend for 37 consecutive years, currently offering a 3.92% yield.
In their coverage initiation, Jefferies set a total shareholder return (TSR) expectation of 10% for Fortis. This figure combines anticipated dividends and stock price appreciation. Despite the positive aspects of Fortis’s business, Jefferies’ initiation at a Hold rating reflects a balanced view of the company’s growth potential against the risks identified.
Fortis’s stock will continue to be observed by investors and analysts alike as the company navigates the challenges and opportunities outlined by Jefferies. The utility sector remains a focus for those seeking stable returns and the potential for growth in infrastructure investment.
In other recent news, North American regulated electric and gas utility leader, Fortis Inc ., has renewed its at-the-market equity program (ATM Program). The move allows the company to issue up to C$500 million in common shares from its treasury at market prices through various exchanges. The ATM Program is designed to enhance Fortis’s financial flexibility to support its capital program, with the company retaining discretion over the volume and timing of any share distributions. The program will remain active until January 10, 2027, unless terminated earlier.
The renewal follows the termination of the corporation’s previous ATM Program initiated in September 2023. Fortis has entered into an equity distribution agreement with several financial institutions in Canada and the U.S. to facilitate the ATM Program. The net proceeds from the ATM Program will be used for general corporate purposes, as part of Fortis’s ongoing efforts to maintain a strong financial position.
In the previous year, Fortis reported revenues of $12 billion and owned assets totaling $70 billion as of September 30, 2024. The company, which employs 9,600 people, serves customers across five Canadian provinces, ten U.S. states, and three Caribbean countries. These are recent developments in the company’s operations.
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