
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.
Today's disappointments are tomorrow's opportunities. He's looking at water utilities, a business that won't go away. He's waiting for a plan from the new management team. Once we get it, the stock will re-rate back to an acceptable range, with double digits over 5 years very possible.
It's sold off a lot. Utilities tend to improve when interest rates fall. Pays 5.5%. At the end of the day, people need to pay their utility bills, in booms or recessions. AQN holds $16 trillion of assets, so it's not a small company. They've done well historically, including a beat in their last quarter. The street rates this a hold, but sees 30% upside to $8.50. She wants to see a turnaround first, but its on her watch list. AQN ranks 7/10 for fundamentals and 10/10 in value.
Rough waters, has not been an easy hold. Pressured by interest rates, dividend cut. A lot of negatives baked into the price. He looks at it from time to time for his clean energy portfolio, but isn't quite there yet. More interesting at these lower valuations. Doesn't consider takeover potential as a rationale for long-term investing.
It has 2 businesses: renewables and regulated utilities. AQN trades under 12x PE whereas a pure-play renewable or pure-play utility would trade a lot higher. AQN has changed management and aim to optimize their assets. He sees a lot of value here, so he has actually added to it. He sees a plan in place to realize value, and it's trickling through. There are plans to spin off or sell the renewable business to return to being a pure utility. The market isn't giving AQN any credit, so AQN sits in the penalty box because of past management mistakes.
Tough go due to capital structure and cost overruns. Needs to get the dividend, cashflow, and balance sheet straightened out. Not looking at right now. If you own, consider harvesting a tax loss if you can and redeploy into other names.
Likes the power space in general. See his Top Picks.