Gold prices steady, holding sharp gains in wake of soft U.S. jobs data
On Friday, Scotiabank (TSX:BNS) analyst Andrew Weisel elevated the price target for CenterPoint Energy (NYSE:CNP) to $40.00, up from the previous $35.00, while maintaining a Sector Outperform rating on the stock. The $24.74 billion utility company, currently trading near its 52-week high of $38.1, appears undervalued according to InvestingPro analysis. Weisel’s optimism stems from the company’s updated demand outlook and capital expenditure forecast, which has seen a $1 billion increase, amounting to a 2% rise.
Weisel highlighted CenterPoint Energy’s strategic positioning and prudent approach in light of concerns about potential economic downturns and load growth projections. The company’s strong financial performance is evident in its impressive 31.02% return over the past six months and consistent dividend payments maintained for 55 consecutive years. The analyst anticipates a significant update in the third quarter of 2025, expecting it to serve as a catalyst for the company’s stock. Weisel commended the company for its progress in Houston, the largest jurisdiction, particularly in enhancing regulatory and political relationships after Hurricane Beryl’s impact.
The analyst also praised CenterPoint Energy’s regulatory team for its effective execution. Following the Ohio Gas case resolution, more than 80% of the company’s rate base is shielded from general rate case scrutiny for another four years, providing substantial regulatory clarity. Weisel noted the near completion of the balance sheet recovery, which adds to the company’s stability.
Despite acknowledging that CenterPoint Energy’s stock is trading at a P/E ratio of 25.16 relative to its peers, Weisel supports the premium due to the strong growth outlook and the company’s consistently improving risk profile. InvestingPro data reveals a "GREAT" Financial Health Score of 3.04, with additional insights available in the comprehensive Pro Research Report. The bullish stance is further reinforced by the company’s first-quarter 2025 earnings per share (EPS) of $0.53, which aligned with consensus estimates and slightly exceeded Scotiabank’s projection.
In other recent news, CenterPoint Energy reported its financial results for the first quarter of 2025, showing a strong revenue performance that exceeded expectations. The company posted revenue of $2.92 billion, surpassing the anticipated $2.78 billion, although its non-GAAP earnings per share (EPS) of $0.53 fell slightly below the forecasted $0.55. CenterPoint Energy also announced a significant expansion of its capital investment plan, increasing it by $1 billion to a total of $48.5 billion through 2030, with a particular focus on grid resiliency and infrastructure improvements. The company reaffirmed its 2025 EPS guidance, projecting 8% growth at the midpoint. Mizuho (NYSE:MFG) Securities raised CenterPoint Energy’s price target to $38 from $34 while maintaining a Neutral rating on the stock, citing the company’s current valuation and market position. CenterPoint Energy is navigating the financial implications of Hurricane Beryl and other storms, which have led to discussions on financing strategies and cost recovery proceedings. The company is also focusing on regulatory progress, having made several filings related to capital recovery mechanisms and storm cost recovery. These developments reflect CenterPoint Energy’s strategic growth plans and ongoing efforts to enhance its infrastructure and financial stability.
This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.