MGE (MGEE - Free Report) came out with quarterly earnings of $0.89 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.77 per share. This compares to earnings of $0.72 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items.
This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of +15.58%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this public utility holding company would post earnings of $1.13 per share when it actually produced earnings of $1.32, delivering a surprise of +16.81%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times.
MGE, which belongs to the Zacks Utility - Electric Power industry, posted revenues of $161.2 million for the quarter ended June 2026, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 3.11%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $159.45 million. The company has topped consensus revenue estimates two times over the last four quarters.
The sustainability of the stock's immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's commentary on the earnings call.
MGE shares have added about 1.9% since the beginning of the year versus the S&P 500's gain of 13%.
What's Next for MGE?While MGE has underperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors' minds is: what's next for the stock?
There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company's earnings outlook. Not only does this include current consensus earnings expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately.
Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of earnings estimate revisions.
Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for MGE was favorable. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company's just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to outperform the market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and the current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus EPS estimate is $1.25 on $186.59 million in revenues for the coming quarter and $3.99 on $791.64 million in revenues for the current fiscal year.
Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, Utility - Electric Power is currently in the bottom 29% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.
One other stock from the same industry, PPL (PPL - Free Report) , is yet to report results for the quarter ended June 2026. The results are expected to be released on August 7.
This energy and utility holding company is expected to post quarterly earnings of $0.35 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of +9.4%. The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 0.5% lower over the last 30 days to the current level.
PPL's revenues are expected to be $2.18 billion, up 7.5% from the year-ago quarter.
MADISON, Wis.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--MGE Energy, Inc. (Nasdaq: MGEE), today reported financial results for the second quarter of 2026.
MGE Energy's GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) earnings for the second quarter of 2026 were $33.4 million, or $0.89 per share, compared to $26.5 million, or $0.72 per share, for the same period in the prior year.
Electric segment earnings increased $3.0 million for 2026 compared to 2025, reflecting strategic capital investments that grew rate base, largely driven by the successful deployment of key renewable energy projects. Gas net income remained stable compared to the second quarter of 2025. In addition, earnings benefited from approximately $3.9 million of investment gains, including returns from venture capital funds focused on technologies and innovations relevant to the evolving energy industry.
MGE Energy, Inc.
(In thousands, except per-share amounts)
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended June 30,
2026
2025
Operating revenues
$
161,195
$
159,452
Operating income
$
32,634
$
34,223
Net income
$
33,353
$
26,498
Earnings per share - basic
$
0.89
$
0.73
Earnings per share - diluted
$
0.89
$
0.72
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic
37,351
36,540
Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted
37,456
36,569
Six Months Ended June 30,
2026
2025
Operating revenues
$
403,898
$
378,422
Operating income
$
85,786
$
87,088
Net income
$
81,834
$
68,090
Earnings per share - basic
$
2.21
$
1.86
Earnings per share - diluted
$
2.21
$
1.86
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic
36,972
36,526
Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted
37,029
36,557
About MGE Energy
MGE Energy is a public utility holding company. Its principal subsidiary, Madison Gas and Electric, generates and distributes electricity to 170,000 customers in Dane County, Wis., and purchases and distributes natural gas to 180,000 customers in seven south-central and western Wisconsin counties. MGE's roots in the Madison area date back more than 150 years.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. Such forward-looking statements are based on MGE Energy's current expectations, estimates and assumptions regarding future events, which are inherently uncertain. We caution you not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which are made as of the date of this press release. We undertake no obligation to revise or update publicly any such forward-looking statements to reflect any change in expectations or in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statements may be based. For a further description of the risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed in these forward-looking statements, as well as risks relating to our business in general, please refer to the “Risk Factors” sections in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Whether it's through stocks, bonds, ETFs, or other types of securities, all investors love seeing their portfolios score big returns. But when you're an income investor, your primary focus is generating consistent cash flow from each of your liquid investments.
While cash flow can come from bond interest or interest from other types of investments, income investors hone in on dividends. A dividend is that coveted distribution of a company's earnings paid out to shareholders, and investors often view it by its dividend yield, a metric that measures the dividend as a percent of the current stock price. Many academic studies show that dividends make up large portions of long-term returns, and in many cases, dividend contributions surpass one-third of total returns.
Based in Madison, MGE (MGEE - Free Report) is in the Utilities sector, and so far this year, shares have seen a price change of 4.55%. Currently paying a dividend of $0.47 per share, the company has a dividend yield of 2.32%. In comparison, the Utility - Electric Power industry's yield is 3.08%, while the S&P 500's yield is 1.31%.
Looking at dividend growth, the company's current annualized dividend of $1.90 is up 2.7% from last year. Over the last 5 years, MGE has increased its dividend 5 times on a year-over-year basis for an average annual increase of 4.83%. Looking ahead, future dividend growth will be dependent on earnings growth and payout ratio, which is the proportion of a company's annual earnings per share that it pays out as a dividend. MGE's current payout ratio is 49%, meaning it paid out 49% of its trailing 12-month EPS as dividend.
Earnings growth looks solid for MGEE for this fiscal year. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 is $3.99 per share, with earnings expected to increase 7.26% from the year ago period.
From greatly improving stock investing profits and reducing overall portfolio risk to providing tax advantages, investors like dividends for a variety of different reasons. It's important to keep in mind that not all companies provide a quarterly payout.
Big, established firms that have more secure profits are often seen as the best dividend options, but it's fairly uncommon to see high-growth businesses or tech start-ups offer their stockholders a dividend. Income investors have to be mindful of the fact that high-yielding stocks tend to struggle during periods of rising interest rates. That said, they can take comfort from the fact that MGEE is not only an attractive dividend play, but is also a compelling investment opportunity with a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy).
The market expects MGE (MGEE - Free Report) to deliver a year-over-year increase in earnings on higher revenues when it reports results for the quarter ended June 2026. This widely-known consensus outlook is important in assessing the company's earnings picture, but a powerful factor that might influence its near-term stock price is how the actual results compare to these estimates.
The stock might move higher if these key numbers top expectations in the upcoming earnings report. On the other hand, if they miss, the stock may move lower.
While management's discussion of business conditions on the earnings call will mostly determine the sustainability of the immediate price change and future earnings expectations, it's worth having a handicapping insight into the odds of a positive EPS surprise.
Zacks Consensus EstimateThis public utility holding company is expected to post quarterly earnings of $0.77 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of +6.9%.
Revenues are expected to be $166.37 million, up 4.3% from the year-ago quarter.
Estimate Revisions TrendThe consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 8.7% higher over the last 30 days to the current level. This is essentially a reflection of how the covering analysts have collectively reassessed their initial estimates over this period.
Investors should keep in mind that the direction of estimate revisions by each of the covering analysts may not always get reflected in the aggregate change.
Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
Earnings WhisperEstimate revisions ahead of a company's earnings release offer clues to the business conditions for the period whose results are coming out. Our proprietary surprise prediction model -- the Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction) -- has this insight at its core.
The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a more recent version of the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier.
Thus, a positive or negative Earnings ESP reading theoretically indicates the likely deviation of the actual earnings from the consensus estimate. However, the model's predictive power is significant for positive ESP readings only.
A positive Earnings ESP is a strong predictor of an earnings beat, particularly when combined with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold). Our research shows that stocks with this combination produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time, and a solid Zacks Rank actually increases the predictive power of Earnings ESP.
Please note that a negative Earnings ESP reading is not indicative of an earnings miss. Our research shows that it is difficult to predict an earnings beat with any degree of confidence for stocks with negative Earnings ESP readings and/or Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) or 5 (Strong Sell).
How Have the Numbers Shaped Up for MGE?For MGE, the Most Accurate Estimate is the same as the Zacks Consensus Estimate, suggesting that there are no recent analyst views which differ from what have been considered to derive the consensus estimate. This has resulted in an Earnings ESP of 0%.
On the other hand, the stock currently carries a Zacks Rank of #2.
So, this combination makes it difficult to conclusively predict that MGE will beat the consensus EPS estimate.
Does Earnings Surprise History Hold Any Clue?Analysts often consider to what extent a company has been able to match consensus estimates in the past while calculating their estimates for its future earnings. So, it's worth taking a look at the surprise history for gauging its influence on the upcoming number.
For the last reported quarter, it was expected that MGE would post earnings of $1.13 per share when it actually produced earnings of $1.32, delivering a surprise of +16.81%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has beaten consensus EPS estimates two times.
Bottom LineAn earnings beat or miss may not be the sole basis for a stock moving higher or lower. Many stocks end up losing ground despite an earnings beat due to other factors that disappoint investors. Similarly, unforeseen catalysts help a number of stocks gain despite an earnings miss.
That said, betting on stocks that are expected to beat earnings expectations does increase the odds of success. This is why it's worth checking a company's Earnings ESP and Zacks Rank ahead of its quarterly release. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported.
MGE doesn't appear a compelling earnings-beat candidate. However, investors should pay attention to other factors too for betting on this stock or staying away from it ahead of its earnings release.
An Industry Player's Expected ResultsAmong the stocks in the Zacks Utility - Electric Power industry, Otter Tail (OTTR - Free Report) , is soon expected to post earnings of $1.48 per share for the quarter ended June 2026. This estimate indicates a year-over-year change of -20%. This quarter's revenue is expected to be $334.5 million, up 0.4% from the year-ago quarter.
The consensus EPS estimate for Otter Tail has been revised 8.9% lower over the last 30 days to the current level. However, an equal Most Accurate Estimate has resulted in an Earnings ESP of 0.00%.
When combined with a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold), this Earnings ESP makes it difficult to conclusively predict that Otter Tail will beat the consensus EPS estimate. Over the last four quarters, the company surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times.
Stay on top of upcoming earnings announcements with the Zacks Earnings Calendar.
All investors love getting big returns from their portfolio, whether it's through stocks, bonds, ETFs, or other types of securities. But when you're an income investor, your primary focus is generating consistent cash flow from each of your liquid investments.
Cash flow can come from bond interest, interest from other types of investments, and, of course, dividends. A dividend is that coveted distribution of a company's earnings paid out to shareholders, and investors often view it by its dividend yield, a metric that measures the dividend as a percent of the current stock price. Many academic studies show that dividends make up large portions of long-term returns, and in many cases, dividend contributions surpass one-third of total returns.
Headquartered in Madison, MGE (MGEE - Free Report) is a Utilities stock that has seen a price change of 4.27% so far this year. The public utility holding company is paying out a dividend of $0.47 per share at the moment, with a dividend yield of 2.32% compared to the Utility - Electric Power industry's yield of 2.98% and the S&P 500's yield of 1.35%.
Looking at dividend growth, the company's current annualized dividend of $1.90 is up 2.7% from last year. Over the last 5 years, MGE has increased its dividend 5 times on a year-over-year basis for an average annual increase of 4.83%. Looking ahead, future dividend growth will be dependent on earnings growth and payout ratio, which is the proportion of a company's annual earnings per share that it pays out as a dividend. MGE's current payout ratio is 49%, meaning it paid out 49% of its trailing 12-month EPS as dividend.
MGEE is expecting earnings to expand this fiscal year as well. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 is $3.98 per share, representing a year-over-year earnings growth rate of 6.99%.
From greatly improving stock investing profits and reducing overall portfolio risk to providing tax advantages, investors like dividends for a variety of different reasons. It's important to keep in mind that not all companies provide a quarterly payout.
High-growth firms or tech start-ups, for example, rarely provide their shareholders a dividend, while larger, more established companies that have more secure profits are often seen as the best dividend options. Income investors must be conscious of the fact that high-yielding stocks tend to struggle during periods of rising interest rates. That said, they can take comfort from the fact that MGEE is not only an attractive dividend play, but is also a compelling investment opportunity with a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy).
Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.
Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
Getting big returns from financial portfolios, whether through stocks, bonds, ETFs, other securities, or a combination of all, is an investor's dream. But when you're an income investor, your primary focus is generating consistent cash flow from each of your liquid investments.
While cash flow can come from bond interest or interest from other types of investments, income investors hone in on dividends. A dividend is the distribution of a company's earnings paid out to shareholders; it's often viewed by its dividend yield, a metric that measures a dividend as a percent of the current stock price. Many academic studies show that dividends make up large portions of long-term returns, and in many cases, dividend contributions surpass one-third of total returns.
Headquartered in Madison, MGE (MGEE - Free Report) is a Utilities stock that has seen a price change of 0.55% so far this year. The public utility holding company is currently shelling out a dividend of $0.47 per share, with a dividend yield of 2.41%. This compares to the Utility - Electric Power industry's yield of 2.99% and the S&P 500's yield of 1.45%.
Looking at dividend growth, the company's current annualized dividend of $1.90 is up 2.7% from last year. Over the last 5 years, MGE has increased its dividend 5 times on a year-over-year basis for an average annual increase of 4.83%. Looking ahead, future dividend growth will be dependent on earnings growth and payout ratio, which is the proportion of a company's annual earnings per share that it pays out as a dividend. MGE's current payout ratio is 49%, meaning it paid out 49% of its trailing 12-month EPS as dividend.
Looking at this fiscal year, MGEE expects solid earnings growth. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 is $3.98 per share, representing a year-over-year earnings growth rate of 6.99%.
Investors like dividends for many reasons; they greatly improve stock investing profits, decrease overall portfolio risk, and carry tax advantages, among others. It's important to keep in mind that not all companies provide a quarterly payout.
High-growth firms or tech start-ups, for example, rarely provide their shareholders a dividend, while larger, more established companies that have more secure profits are often seen as the best dividend options. Income investors have to be mindful of the fact that high-yielding stocks tend to struggle during periods of rising interest rates. With that in mind, MGEE presents a compelling investment opportunity; it's not only an attractive dividend play, but the stock also boasts a strong Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy).
First Trust Advisors LP increased its stake in MGE Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: MGEE) by 2.3% in the undefined quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 511,382 shares of the utilities provider's stock after purchasing an additional 11,432 shares during the period. First
MGE Energy (NASDAQ: MGEE - Get Free Report) and Kenon (NYSE: KEN - Get Free Report) are both mid-cap utilities companies, but which is the superior stock? We will compare the two businesses based on the strength of their risk, earnings, analyst recommendations, institutional ownership, profitability, dividends and valuation. Institutional and Insider Ownership 52.6% of MGE Energy
Last summer, MGE Energy joined the vaunted ranks of the Dividend Kings with its 50th consecutive payout raise. The demographics of MGEE's service territories are still strong, which supports yet another hike in the five-year capital spending plan. The company's S&P credit rating is the best in the nation among investor-owned utilities.
Genie Energy (NYSE:GNE – Get Free Report) and MGE Energy (NASDAQ:MGEE – Get Free Report) are both utilities companies, but which is the superior stock? We will compare the two businesses based on the strength of their institutional ownership, earnings, valuation, analyst recommendations, dividends, profitability and risk.
Earnings & Valuation This table compares Genie Energy and MGE Energy”s revenue, earnings per share and valuation.
Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Genie Energy $425.20 million 0.88 $12.59 million $0.80 17.57 MGE Energy $743.65 million 3.82 $135.89 million $3.72 20.89 MGE Energy has higher revenue and earnings than Genie Energy. Genie Energy is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than MGE Energy, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.
Profitability This table compares Genie Energy and MGE Energy’s net margins, return on equity and return on assets.
Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Genie Energy 1.00% 4.47% 2.16% MGE Energy 18.27% 10.60% 4.59% Dividends Genie Energy pays an annual dividend of $0.30 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.1%. MGE Energy pays an annual dividend of $1.90 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.4%. Genie Energy pays out 37.5% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. MGE Energy pays out 51.1% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Both companies have healthy payout ratios and should be able to cover their dividend payments with earnings for the next several years. MGE Energy has raised its dividend for 49 consecutive years. MGE Energy is clearly the better dividend stock, given its higher yield and longer track record of dividend growth.
Analyst Recommendations This is a breakdown of recent recommendations and price targets for Genie Energy and MGE Energy, as provided by MarketBeat.
Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Genie Energy 0 1 0 0 2.00 MGE Energy 1 2 0 0 1.67 MGE Energy has a consensus price target of $78.00, indicating a potential upside of 0.37%. Given MGE Energy’s higher probable upside, analysts clearly believe MGE Energy is more favorable than Genie Energy.
Risk & Volatility Genie Energy has a beta of 0.19, indicating that its share price is 81% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, MGE Energy has a beta of 0.79, indicating that its share price is 21% less volatile than the S&P 500.
Insider and Institutional Ownership 49.2% of Genie Energy shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 52.6% of MGE Energy shares are owned by institutional investors. 17.4% of Genie Energy shares are owned by insiders. Comparatively, 0.2% of MGE Energy shares are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.
Summary MGE Energy beats Genie Energy on 13 of the 16 factors compared between the two stocks.
About Genie Energy (Get Free Report)
Genie Energy Ltd., through its subsidiaries, engages in the supply of electricity and natural gas to residential and small business customers in the United States and internationally. It operates in two segments, GRE and Genie Renewables. The company also develops, constructs, and operates solar energy projects for commercial and industrial customers, as well as its own portfolio; provides energy brokerage and advisory services; markets community solar energy solutions; and manufactures and distributes solar panel, as well as engages in solar installation design and project management activities. Genie Energy Ltd. was incorporated in 2011 and is headquartered in Newark, New Jersey.
About MGE Energy (Get Free Report)
MGE Energy, Inc., through its subsidiaries, operates as a public utility holding company primarily in the United States. It operates through Regulated Electric Utility Operations; Regulated Gas Utility Operations; Nonregulated Energy Operations; Transmission Investments; and All Other segments. The company generates, purchases, and distributes electricity and natural gas in Wisconsin and Iowa; owns and leases electric generating capacity; and plans, constructs, operates, maintains, and expands transmission facilities to provide transmission power services. It generates electricity from coal-fired, gas-fired, and renewable energy sources. As of December 31, 2023, the company owned and operated 835 miles of overhead electric distribution lines; 1,330 miles of underground electric distribution cables; 49 substations with an installed capacity of 1.2 million kVA; and gas facilities, including 3,066 miles of distribution mains, as well as supplied electric service to approximately 163,000 customers. MGE Energy, Inc. founded in 2001 and is headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin.
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MGE Energy Inc. (NASDAQ:MGEE – Get Free Report) was the target of a large decrease in short interest in the month of March. As of March 31st, there was short interest totaling 478,227 shares, a decrease of 22.2% from the March 15th total of 614,660 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 324,714 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 1.5 days. Currently, 1.3% of the shares of the stock are sold short.
Insider Buying and Selling at MGE Energy In related news, Director James G. Berbee purchased 373 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, March 11th. The shares were acquired at an average cost of $77.74 per share, with a total value of $28,997.02. Following the purchase, the director directly owned 9,362 shares in the company, valued at $727,801.88. This trade represents a 4.15% increase in their position. The acquisition was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. 0.41% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.
Institutional Investors Weigh In On MGE Energy Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in MGEE. Geode Capital Management LLC lifted its holdings in MGE Energy by 0.4% in the 4th quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 921,952 shares of the utilities provider’s stock valued at $72,315,000 after purchasing an additional 3,692 shares in the last quarter. First Trust Advisors LP lifted its holdings in MGE Energy by 2.3% in the 3rd quarter. First Trust Advisors LP now owns 511,382 shares of the utilities provider’s stock valued at $43,048,000 after purchasing an additional 11,432 shares in the last quarter. Invesco Ltd. lifted its holdings in MGE Energy by 14.3% in the 2nd quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 238,747 shares of the utilities provider’s stock valued at $21,115,000 after purchasing an additional 29,811 shares in the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. lifted its holdings in MGE Energy by 9.6% in the 4th quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 216,173 shares of the utilities provider’s stock valued at $16,952,000 after purchasing an additional 18,877 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Speece Thorson Capital Group Inc. lifted its holdings in MGE Energy by 44.3% in the 4th quarter. Speece Thorson Capital Group Inc. now owns 195,596 shares of the utilities provider’s stock valued at $15,339,000 after purchasing an additional 60,037 shares in the last quarter. 52.58% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.
MGE Energy Price Performance MGE Energy stock opened at $79.89 on Wednesday. MGE Energy has a 52 week low of $72.17 and a 52 week high of $94.00. The company has a quick ratio of 0.55, a current ratio of 0.77 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.61. The firm’s 50-day simple moving average is $78.84 and its 200 day simple moving average is $80.48. The firm has a market capitalization of $2.94 billion, a PE ratio of 21.48 and a beta of 0.79.
MGE Energy (NASDAQ:MGEE – Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 24th. The utilities provider reported $0.64 EPS for the quarter, hitting the consensus estimate of $0.64. MGE Energy had a net margin of 18.27% and a return on equity of 10.60%. The business had revenue of $189.55 million for the quarter. On average, equities research analysts predict that MGE Energy will post 3.43 EPS for the current fiscal year.
MGE Energy Dividend Announcement The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Sunday, March 15th. Investors of record on Sunday, March 1st were given a $0.475 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Friday, February 27th. This represents a $1.90 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.4%. MGE Energy’s payout ratio is currently 51.08%.
Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of equities analysts have recently weighed in on the stock. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a “hold (c+)” rating on shares of MGE Energy in a research note on Monday, December 29th. Morgan Stanley lowered their price target on shares of MGE Energy from $74.00 to $73.00 and set an “underweight” rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, February 2nd. Finally, Wall Street Zen raised shares of MGE Energy from a “sell” rating to a “hold” rating in a research note on Sunday, March 8th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of “Reduce” and a consensus target price of $78.00.
View Our Latest Report on MGEE
MGE Energy Company Profile (Get Free Report)
MGE Energy, Inc is a public utility holding company headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin. Through its principal subsidiary, Madison Gas and Electric Company (MGE), the company provides regulated electric and natural gas distribution services to residential, commercial and industrial customers in south-central Wisconsin. MGE Energy’s operations encompass the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity as well as the purchase and distribution of natural gas, with an emphasis on reliable service and system resilience.
Since reorganizing as a holding company in 2001, MGE Energy has expanded its portfolio to include nonregulated subsidiaries involved in renewable energy development, energy services and infrastructure support.
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The market expects Vistra Corp. (VST - Free Report) to deliver a year-over-year increase in earnings on higher revenues when it reports results for the quarter ended March 2026. This widely-known consensus outlook is important in assessing the company's earnings picture, but a powerful factor that might influence its near-term stock price is how the actual results compare to these estimates.
The stock might move higher if these key numbers top expectations in the upcoming earnings report, which is expected to be released on May 7. On the other hand, if they miss, the stock may move lower.
While management's discussion of business conditions on the earnings call will mostly determine the sustainability of the immediate price change and future earnings expectations, it's worth having a handicapping insight into the odds of a positive EPS surprise.
Zacks Consensus EstimateThis company is expected to post quarterly earnings of $1.39 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of +202.2%.
Revenues are expected to be $5.41 billion, up 37.7% from the year-ago quarter.
Estimate Revisions TrendThe consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 3.33% lower over the last 30 days to the current level. This is essentially a reflection of how the covering analysts have collectively reassessed their initial estimates over this period.
Investors should keep in mind that the direction of estimate revisions by each of the covering analysts may not always get reflected in the aggregate change.
Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
Earnings WhisperEstimate revisions ahead of a company's earnings release offer clues to the business conditions for the period whose results are coming out. This insight is at the core of our proprietary surprise prediction model -- the Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction).
The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a more recent version of the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier.
Thus, a positive or negative Earnings ESP reading theoretically indicates the likely deviation of the actual earnings from the consensus estimate. However, the model's predictive power is significant for positive ESP readings only.
A positive Earnings ESP is a strong predictor of an earnings beat, particularly when combined with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold). Our research shows that stocks with this combination produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time, and a solid Zacks Rank actually increases the predictive power of Earnings ESP.
Please note that a negative Earnings ESP reading is not indicative of an earnings miss. Our research shows that it is difficult to predict an earnings beat with any degree of confidence for stocks with negative Earnings ESP readings and/or Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) or 5 (Strong Sell).
How Have the Numbers Shaped Up for Vistra?For Vistra, the Most Accurate Estimate is lower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate, suggesting that analysts have recently become bearish on the company's earnings prospects. This has resulted in an Earnings ESP of -23.60%.
On the other hand, the stock currently carries a Zacks Rank of #3.
So, this combination makes it difficult to conclusively predict that Vistra will beat the consensus EPS estimate.
Does Earnings Surprise History Hold Any Clue?Analysts often consider to what extent a company has been able to match consensus estimates in the past while calculating their estimates for its future earnings. So, it's worth taking a look at the surprise history for gauging its influence on the upcoming number.
For the last reported quarter, it was expected that Vistra would post earnings of $2.51 per share when it actually produced earnings of $2.18, delivering a surprise of -13.15%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has beaten consensus EPS estimates two times.
Bottom LineAn earnings beat or miss may not be the sole basis for a stock moving higher or lower. Many stocks end up losing ground despite an earnings beat due to other factors that disappoint investors. Similarly, unforeseen catalysts help a number of stocks gain despite an earnings miss.
That said, betting on stocks that are expected to beat earnings expectations does increase the odds of success. This is why it's worth checking a company's Earnings ESP and Zacks Rank ahead of its quarterly release. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported.
Vistra doesn't appear a compelling earnings-beat candidate. However, investors should pay attention to other factors too for betting on this stock or staying away from it ahead of its earnings release.
Expected Results of an Industry PlayerMGE (MGEE - Free Report) , another stock in the Zacks Utility - Electric Power industry, is expected to report earnings per share of $1.13 for the quarter ended March 2026. This estimate points to a year-over-year change of -0.9%. Revenues for the quarter are expected to be $227.06 million, up 3.7% from the year-ago quarter.
Over the last 30 days, the consensus EPS estimate for MGE has been revised 1.3% up to the current level. Nevertheless, the company now has an Earnings ESP of 0.00%, reflecting an equal Most Accurate Estimate.
When combined with a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold), this Earnings ESP makes it difficult to conclusively predict that MGE will beat the consensus EPS estimate. Over the last four quarters, the company surpassed consensus EPS estimates two times.
Stay on top of upcoming earnings announcements with the Zacks Earnings Calendar.
MADISON, Wis.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--MGE Energy, Inc. (Nasdaq: MGEE), today reported financial results for the first quarter of 2026.
MGE Energy's GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) earnings for the first quarter of 2026 were $48.5 million, or $1.32 per share, compared to $41.6 million, or $1.14 per share, for the same period in the prior year.
Electric segment earnings increased $5.5 million for 2026 compared to 2025, a result of strategic capital investments that grew rate base. This growth remains largely driven by the successful deployment of key renewable energy projects.
Gas net income exhibited steady performance, with minimal variation compared to the first quarter of 2025.
MGE Energy, Inc.
(In thousands, except per-share amounts)
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended March 31,
2026
2025
Operating revenues
$
242,703
$
218,970
Operating income
$
53,152
$
52,865
Net income
$
48,481
$
41,592
Earnings per share - basic
$
1.32
$
1.14
Earnings per share - diluted
$
1.32
$
1.14
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic
36,590
36,511
Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted
36,620
36,539
About MGE Energy
MGE Energy is a public utility holding company. Its principal subsidiary, Madison Gas and Electric, generates and distributes electricity to 170,000 customers in Dane County, Wis., and purchases and distributes natural gas to 180,000 customers in seven south-central and western Wisconsin counties. MGE's roots in the Madison area date back more than 150 years.
Forward-looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. Such forward-looking statements are based on MGE Energy's current expectations, estimates and assumptions regarding future events, which are inherently uncertain. We caution you not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which are made as of the date of this press release. We undertake no obligation to revise or update publicly any such forward-looking statements to reflect any change in expectations or in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statements may be based. For a further description of the risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed in these forward-looking statements, as well as risks relating to our business in general, please refer to the “Risk Factors” sections in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
MGE (MGEE - Free Report) came out with quarterly earnings of $1.32 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.13 per share. This compares to earnings of $1.14 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items.
This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of +16.81%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this public utility holding company would post earnings of $0.64 per share when it actually produced earnings of $0.64, delivering no surprise.
Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus EPS estimates two times.
MGE, which belongs to the Zacks Utility - Electric Power industry, posted revenues of $242.7 million for the quarter ended March 2026, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 6.89%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $218.97 million. The company has topped consensus revenue estimates three times over the last four quarters.
The sustainability of the stock's immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's commentary on the earnings call.
MGE shares have added about 2.2% since the beginning of the year versus the S&P 500's gain of 5.2%.
What's Next for MGE?While MGE has underperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors' minds is: what's next for the stock?
There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company's earnings outlook. Not only does this include current consensus earnings expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately.
Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of earnings estimate revisions.
Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for MGE was mixed. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company's just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to perform in line with the market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and the current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus EPS estimate is $0.81 on $168.87 million in revenues for the coming quarter and $3.92 on $788.07 million in revenues for the current fiscal year.
Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, Utility - Electric Power is currently in the top 38% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.
Eversource Energy (ES - Free Report) , another stock in the same industry, has yet to report results for the quarter ended March 2026. The results are expected to be released on May 6.
This New England power provider is expected to post quarterly earnings of $1.59 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of +6%. The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 2.2% lower over the last 30 days to the current level.
Eversource Energy's revenues are expected to be $4.21 billion, up 2.3% from the year-ago quarter.
MADISON, Wis.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--MGE Energy, Inc. (Nasdaq: MGEE) (MGE Energy) announced today that it has priced its previously announced underwritten public offering of 3,300,331 shares of its common stock at a public offering price of $75.75 per share. Of the 3,300,331 shares of common stock being offered, MGE Energy agreed to issue and sell directly 990,099 shares to the underwriters in the offering, and the forward sellers (as defined below) agreed to borrow from third parties and sell to such underwriters 2,310,232 shares of common stock in connection with the forward sale agreements described below. In conjunction with the offering, MGE Energy has granted to the underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to 495,049 additional shares of its common stock. If such option is exercised, MGE Energy may, in its sole discretion, enter into additional forward sale agreements with the forward purchasers with respect to such additional shares or issue and sell such shares directly to the underwriters.
Morgan Stanley, Guggenheim Securities, BofA Securities and J.P. Morgan are acting as joint book-running managers for the offering. Closing of the offering is expected to occur on or about May 8, 2026, subject to customary closing conditions.
In connection with the offering, MGE Energy entered into separate forward sale agreements with each of Morgan Stanley, BofA Securities and J.P. Morgan or their respective affiliates, referred to in such capacity as the forward purchasers, pursuant to which MGE Energy agreed to sell to the forward purchasers the same number of shares of common stock as are borrowed from third parties and sold by the forward purchasers or their affiliates (in such capacities, the “forward sellers”) to the underwriters. Under the forward sale agreements, the forward purchasers agreed, upon physical settlement, to purchase shares from MGE Energy at an initial forward sale price per share equal to $72.9094, subject to certain adjustments that are made to that price over the term of each forward sale agreement. Settlement of the forward sale agreements is expected to occur no later than approximately 20 months after the date of the prospectus supplement for the offering. MGE Energy may, subject to certain conditions, elect cash settlement or net share settlement for all or a portion of its rights or obligations under the forward sale agreements.
MGE Energy intends to use the net proceeds from the sale of shares of common stock in the offering for general corporate purposes, which may include repayment of short-term debt; repurchases, retirements and refinancing of other securities; funding capital expenditures; and investments in subsidiaries. MGE Energy will not initially receive any proceeds from the sale of the common stock sold by the forward sellers to the underwriters. MGE Energy intends to use any net proceeds that it receives upon settlement of the forward sale agreements as described above.
A shelf registration statement on Form S-3, including a prospectus, related to the shares, has been filed by MGE Energy with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and has become effective automatically upon filing. The offering will be made only by means of a preliminary prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus which has been filed with the SEC. Copies of the preliminary prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus, and the final prospectus supplement, when available, may be obtained from Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, Attn: Prospectus Department, 180 Varick Street, 2nd Floor, New York, New York 10014; Guggenheim Securities, LLC, Attention: Equity Syndicate, 330 Madison Avenue, New York, New York 10017 (email: [email protected]); BofA Securities, Inc., Attn: Prospectus Department, NC1-022-02-25, 201 North Tryon Street, Charlotte, North Carolina 28255-0001 (email: [email protected]); or J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, c/o Broadridge Financial Solutions, 1155 Long Island Avenue, Edgewood, New York 11717 or by email at [email protected] or by visiting the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.
This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.
About MGE Energy
MGE Energy is a public utility holding company. Its principal subsidiary, Madison Gas and Electric (MGE), generates and distributes electricity to 170,000 customers in Dane County, Wis., and purchases and distributes natural gas to 180,000 customers in seven south-central and western Wisconsin counties. MGE's roots in the Madison area date back more than 150 years.
Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. Such statements include the risks and uncertainties related to the offering such as the consummation of the offering on the terms described, the anticipated closing date, the anticipated use of the proceeds and the satisfaction of customary closing conditions. Such forward-looking statements are based on MGE Energy's current expectations, estimates and assumptions regarding future events, which are inherently uncertain. We caution you not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which are made as of the date of this press release. We undertake no obligation to revise or update publicly any such forward-looking statements to reflect any change in expectations or in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statements may be based. For a further description of the risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed in these forward-looking statements, as well as risks relating to our business in general, please refer to the “Risk Factors” sections in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, filed with the SEC.
MADISON, Wis.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The board of directors of MGE Energy, Inc. (Nasdaq: MGEE), today declared the regular quarterly dividend of $0.4750 per share on the outstanding shares of the company's common stock, payable June 15, 2026, to shareholders of record at the close of business June 1, 2026.
MGE Energy has increased its dividend annually for the past 50 years and has paid cash dividends for more than 110 years.
About MGE Energy
MGE Energy is a public utility holding company. Its principal subsidiary, Madison Gas and Electric, generates and distributes electricity to 170,000 customers in Dane County, Wis., and purchases and distributes natural gas to 180,000 customers in seven south-central and western Wisconsin counties. MGE's roots in the Madison area date back more than 150 years.
The board of directors of MGE Energy, Inc. (Nasdaq: MGEE), today declared the regular quarterly dividend of $0.4750 per share on the outstanding shares of the company's common stock, payable June 15, 2026, to shareholders of record at the close of business June 1, 2026.
MGE Energy has increased its dividend annually for the past 50 years and has paid cash dividends for more than 110 years.
About MGE Energy
MGE Energy is a public utility holding company. Its principal subsidiary, Madison Gas and Electric, generates and distributes electricity to 170,000 customers in Dane County, Wis., and purchases and distributes natural gas to 180,000 customers in seven south-central and western Wisconsin counties. MGE's roots in the Madison area date back more than 150 years.
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Disclosures I/we have no positions in any stocks mentioned, and have no plans to buy any new positions in the stocks mentioned within the next 72 hours.
