
TSE:AQN
This summary was created by AI, based on 29 opinions in the last 12 months.
Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp (AQN) is currently undergoing a multi-year turnaround focused on becoming a more pure-play regulated utility after divesting its renewable energy assets. The company is predominantly operating in the US, which has prompted plans for redomiciling to attract more US investors and investors appear cautiously optimistic about its restructuring efforts. However, many experts express concerns about the high levels of debt and the modest earnings growth. While there are positive signs of management's improved execution and focus, there is still a prevailing sentiment of skepticism until the company can demonstrate consistent profitability. The stock is perceived as a potential turnaround candidate, but its history of dividend cuts and operational challenges keep some investors at bay.
This has performed quite well, and sees it probably in the $12.50 range, maybe to $13. This has been diversifying itself amongst renewable assets, cogent facilities, natural gas powered assets, etc. so it is basically a utility. It has shown growth rates that most utilities have not. His only concern is that they have done acquisitions in the US. Whenever a Canadian company buys US assets, he gets a little nervous because those assets have obviously been seen by 100 US companies. For them to win the deal, they would have had to pay a higher price. If looking for exposure to power, he would look at Capital Power (CPX-T) which has been beaten up and is paying a 7% yield.
Recently added this to his portfolio. Similar to Emera (EMA-T) or Fortis (FTS-T), it is in the power/utility space. Pays a yield of about 4.7%. They bought some assets in the US, so are diversifying their asset base a little. One thing with these defensive plays that are more yield oriented, the fear of interest rates has kind of gone up in the US, and stocks have come down a little. He can see 20% upside growth in this name.
(A Top Pick Jan 21/16. Up 12.07%.) At the time this was trading below its five-year average and below its peers. He chose it for its US exposure and its solid dividend. He saw good growth in EPS, and still sees that for the next couple of years. There is still much left to go. Trading at 23X 2016 earnings, but trading at 18X 2017. Dividend yield of 4.8%.
He sees pretty visible EPS growth of 18% this year and next from new projects and higher rate cases. Sees 8% annual dividend growth over the next couple of years. Their balance sheet is improving. It looks like the Empire deal is going to close sooner and it has a very strong US$ tailwind. Not expensive on a 2017 basis, and not expensive relative to its peers. Dividend yield of 4.77%.
A very well managed company. Took advantage of the acquisition opportunity in the US by buying a lot of regulated utilities to complement their power development projects. One of his favourite names. Getting a little more expensive, but there are some acquisitions that have not come through yet. A good name to own.