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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.

More News From MGE Energy, Inc.

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.

More News From MGE Energy, Inc.

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.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260519152698/en/

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.

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Callodine Capital Management LP lifted its stake in shares of Sealed Air Corporation (NYSE: SEE) by 688.6% during the undefined quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 473,161 shares of the industrial products company's stock after buying an additional 413,161 shares during the

, /PRNewswire/ -- Sealed Air Corporation ("Sealed Air" or the "Company") (NYSE: SEE) today announced that it has received all regulatory approvals required to complete the Company's pending acquisition by funds affiliated with CD&R. The transaction is expected to close in April 2026, subject to the satisfaction of remaining customary closing conditions.

"The receipt of all regulatory approvals brings us another step closer to completing the transaction with CD&R and embarking on the next phase of innovation and growth at Sealed Air," said Dustin Semach, President and Chief Executive Officer of Sealed Air. "With this milestone complete, we are focused on finalizing the remaining closing conditions and completing the transaction in the coming weeks."

Upon completion of the transaction, Sealed Air will become a privately held company, and its common stock will no longer be traded on the New York Stock Exchange.

About Sealed Air

Sealed Air Corporation (NYSE: SEE), is a leading global provider of packaging solutions that integrate sustainable, high-performance materials, automation, equipment and services. Sealed Air designs, manufactures and delivers packaging solutions that preserve food, protect goods and automate packaging processes. We deliver our packaging solutions to an array of end markets including fresh proteins, foods, fluids and liquids, medical and life science, e-commerce retail, logistics and omnichannel fulfillment operations, and industrials. Our globally recognized solution brands include CRYOVAC® brand food packaging, SEALED AIR® brand protective packaging, LIQUIBOX® brand liquids systems, AUTOBAG® brand automated packaging systems, and BUBBLE WRAP® brand packaging. In 2025, Sealed Air generated $5.4 billion in net sales and has approximately 16,100 employees who serve customers in 119 countries/territories.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements 

This communication includes certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of, and subject to the safe harbor created by, the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are based on the Company's current expectations, estimates and projections about future events, which are subject to change. Any statements as to the expected timing, completion and effects of the proposed transaction (the "Transaction") involving Sealed Air, Sword Purchaser, LLC and Sword Merger Sub, Inc. or that refer to projections, forecasts or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "aim," "plan," "believe," "could," "seek," "see," "should," "will," "may," "would," "might," "considered," "potential," "predict," "projection," "estimate," "forecast," "continue," "likely," "target" or similar expressions. By their nature, forward-looking statements address matters that involve risks and uncertainties because they relate to events and depend upon future circumstances that may or may not occur. These and other forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future results and are subject to risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside the Company's control, that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements.  

These risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors that might materially affect such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: (i) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the merger agreement entered into pursuant to the Transaction; (ii) the risk that the parties to the merger agreement may not be able to satisfy the conditions to the Transaction in a timely manner or at all; (iii) the risk of any litigation relating to the Transaction; (iv) the risk that the Transaction and its announcement could have an adverse effect on the ability of the Company to retain customers and retain and hire key personnel and maintain relationships with customers, suppliers, employees, stockholders and other business relationships and on the Company's operating results and business generally; (v) the risk that the Transaction and its announcement could have adverse effects on the market price of the Company's common stock; (vi) the possibility that the parties to the Transaction may not achieve some or all of any anticipated benefits with respect to the Company's business and the Transaction may not be completed in accordance with the parties' expected plans or at all; (vii) the risk that restrictions on the Company's conduct during the pendency of the Transaction may impact the Company's ability to pursue certain business opportunities; (viii) the possibility that the Transaction may be more expensive to complete than anticipated, including as a result of unexpected factors or events; (ix) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the merger agreement, including in circumstances requiring the Company to pay a termination fee; (x) the risk that the Company's stock price may decline significantly if the Transaction is not consummated; (xi) the Company's ability to raise capital and the terms of those financings; (xii) the risk posed by legislative, regulatory and economic developments affecting the Company's business; (xiii) general economic and market developments and conditions, including with respect to federal monetary policy, federal trade policy, sanctions, export restrictions, interest rates, interchange rates, labor shortages,  supply chain issues, changes in raw material pricing and availability; energy costs; and environmental matters; (xiv) changes in consumer preferences and demand patterns that could adversely affect the Company's sales, profitability and productivity; (xv) the effects of animal and food-related health issues on the Company's business; and (xvi) the other risk factors and cautionary statements described in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 and other documents filed by the Company with the SEC. The above list of factors is not exhaustive or necessarily in order of importance. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and the Company does not undertake to, and specifically disclaims any obligation to, update any forward-looking statements, whether in response to new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. 

Contacts

Investors
Mark Stone
Vice President, Investor Relations
[email protected]

Media
Andi Cole
Head of Global Corporate Communications
[email protected]

FGS Global
[email protected] 

SOURCE Sealed Air

It has been about a month since the last earnings report for Sealed Air . Shares have added about 0.1% in that time frame, outperforming the S&P 500.

Will the recent positive trend continue leading up to its next earnings release, or is Sealed Air due for a pullback? Well, first let's take a quick look at its most recent earnings report in order to get a better handle on the recent drivers for Sealed Air Corporation before we dive into how investors and analysts have reacted as of late.

SEE Q4 Earnings Surpass Estimates, CD&R Merger to Close Mid-2026Sealed Air reported fourth-quarter 2025 adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of 77 cents, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 72 cents. The bottom line increased 2.7% year over year, driven by higher adjusted EBITDA and lower operating costs, reflecting productivity benefits and lower interest expense. These gains were partly offset by higher depreciation and amortization expenses as well as increased adjusted tax expense.

Including special items, the company delivered EPS from continuing operations of 30 cents compared with the breakeven results last quarter.

Sealed Air’s Q4 Sales Up Y/Y Despite Low VolumesTotal sales were $1.4 billion, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.34 billion. The figure rose 2% year over year. Currency translation had a favorable 2.8% impact, while pricing was slightly unfavorable at 0.2% and volumes declined 0.5%.

SEE’s Q4 Gross Margin Dips Y/Y, EBITDA Shows Slight GrowthCost of sales was up 3.8% year over year to $1 billion. The gross profit was $398 million, which marked a 2% dip from the year-ago quarter’s $407 million. The gross margin was 28.4%, a 120-basis point contraction from the year-ago quarter.

Selling, general and administrative expenses (SG&A) expenses were $199 million, up 5.3% from the year-ago quarter. Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) were $278 million, up 2.7% from the year-ago period. The adjusted EBITDA margin was 19.8%, slightly up from the prior-year quarter’s 19.7%.

The improvement reflected lower operating costs driven by productivity benefits and favorable impacts from currency translation. These gains were partially offset by unfavorable net price realization in both the Food and Protective segments and lower volumes in Food.

Sealed Air’s Segment Performances in Q4Food: Net sales increased 1.6% year over year to around $937 million. Pricing actions had no impact, while volumes declined 1.4%. Foreign currency had a favorable impact of 3%. Adjusted EBITDA was around $202 million, down 2.7% from the last-year quarter on lower volumes and unfavorable net price realization, partially offset by lower operating costs and favorable impacts from currency translation.

Protective: The segment reported net sales of $464 million, up 3% from the year-ago quarter.

Pricing had a negative impact of 0.5% and volumes rose 1.3% year over year. The segment’s adjusted EBITDA increased 21% year over year to $80.5 million, driven by lower operating costs, partially offset by unfavorable net price realization.

SEE’s Cash Flow & Balance Sheet UpdatesCash flow generated from operating activities was around $628 million in 2025 compared with $728 million in the prior year.

As of Dec. 31, 2025, Sealed Air’s total debt was $4.1 billion compared with $4.4 billion as of Dec. 31, 2024. As of the end of 2025, the company had $1.4 billion in liquidity available, which comprised $344 million in cash and $1.06 billion in undrawn, committed credit facilities.

Sealed Air’s Performance in 2025For 2025, Sealed Air reported adjusted EPS of $3.34 (up 6% year over year) and also beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.29. Lower interest expense and higher adjusted EBITDA, partially offset by a higher diluted share count and increased depreciation and amortization expense, led to the improvement.

Including special items, the company delivered EPS from continuing operations of $2.99 compared with $1.83 in 2024.

Total sales dipped 0.6% year over year to $5.36 billion, but beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $5.3 billion. Pricing had no impact and volumes declined 1.2% year over year, while currency had a favorable impact of 0.6%. Our model predicted an unfavorable impact of 0.3% from pricing and a year-over-year volume decline of 1.6%.

How Have Estimates Been Moving Since Then?It turns out, fresh estimates have trended upward during the past month.

VGM ScoresCurrently, Sealed Air has a nice Growth Score of B, though it is lagging a lot on the Momentum Score front with an F. However, the stock has a score of B on the value side, putting it in the top 40% for this investment strategy.

Overall, the stock has an aggregate VGM Score of B. If you aren't focused on one strategy, this score is the one you should be interested in.

OutlookEstimates have been trending upward for the stock, and the magnitude of this revision looks promising. Notably, Sealed Air has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). We expect an in-line return from the stock in the next few months.

NYSE issues a pre-market daily advisory direct from the trading floor. NEW YORK, April 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) provides a daily pre-market update directly from the NYSE Trading Floor.

Key Takeaways DUK is set to report Q1 2026 earnings, with EPS seen rising 1.7% and revenues up 2.6%.Duke Energy gains from AI-driven demand, cold weather usage and grid modernization investments.DUK faces pressure from higher operating costs and risks tied to natural gas pipeline reliance. Duke Energy (DUK - Free Report) is expected to report first-quarter 2026 results on May 5, before market open.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings is pegged at $1.79 per share, indicating year-over-year growth of 1.7%. The consensus estimate for revenues is pinned at $8.46 billion, indicating an increase of 2.6% from the year-ago reported figure.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

DUK’s Earnings Surprise HistoryThe company beat on earnings in three of the trailing four quarters and missed in one, delivering an average surprise of 4.77%.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

What Our Quantitative Model PredictsOur proven model predicts an earnings beat for Duke Energy this time around. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the odds of an earnings beat, which is the case here as you will see below.

Earnings ESP: The company’s Earnings ESP is +1.31%. You can uncover the best stocks before they’re reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.

Zacks Rank: Currently, Duke Energy carries a Zacks Rank of 3. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.

Other Stocks Worth a LookSome stocks in the same industry that also have the combination of factors indicating an earnings beat are Ameren (AEE - Free Report) and Eversource Energy (ES - Free Report) . Ameren and Eversource Energy have an Earnings ESP of +1.29% and +0.59%, respectively. Both Ameren and Eversource Energy hold a Zacks Rank of 3 at present.

Factors That are Likely to Have Impacted DUK’s Q1 PerformanceDuke Energy is likely to have continued to benefit from its strategic investments in infrastructure modernization and grid resilience, which have improved operational efficiency and reliability. These initiatives are expected to have supported its first-quarter earnings.

Rising electricity demand from Artificial Intelligence-driven data centers and robust economic development across its service territories are expected to have boosted the company’s quarterly earnings.

Duke Energy’s quarterly earnings are expected to have benefited from higher electricity demand driven by unusually prolonged cold weather (in January 2026) across the majority of its service territories. This forces households to run heating systems longer and thus consume more energy. This directly supports higher utility revenues for the company. At the same time, the company is likely to have gained from offering programs like smart thermostat incentives, time-of-use pricing and flexible billing, which help manage demand peaks and improve customer retention while smoothing cash flow.

In January 2026, Duke Energy brought online a 50-MW, four-hour battery energy storage system at its former Allen coal plant. This is expected to have resulted in cost savings, operational efficiency and improved grid reliability. The project qualifies for federal investment tax credits covering about 40% of costs, directly improving near-term financial efficiency and capital recovery.

Higher sales volumes and the implementation of new rates in the electric and gas segments in the first quarter and prior quarters are expected to have enhanced the bottom line.

However, higher operating expenses are likely to have offset some of the positives in the to-be-reported quarter.

DUK Stock Price PerformanceIn the past three months, the stock has returned 5.7% compared with the industry’s growth of 6%.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

DUK Stock Trading at a PremiumDuke Energy is currently trading at a premium compared with its industry on a forward 12-month P/E basis.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

DUK Stock Returns Lower Than Its IndustryThe company’s trailing 12-month return on equity (ROE) of 9.67% is lower than the industry average of 11.06%. ROE, a profitability measure, reflects how effectively a company utilizes its shareholders’ funds to generate income.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Investment ThesisDuke Energy is a premier utility service provider offering efficient power and energy services. The company is currently focused on expanding its scale of operations, implementing modern technologies at its facilities and enhancing its renewable generation portfolio by investing heavily in infrastructure and expansion projects. To further expand its renewable portfolio, the company has been focusing on the growing electric vehicle (EV) market. Duke Energy has more than 600 EVs in its fleet, including more than 220 on-road vehicles.

Duke Energy relies heavily on interstate pipelines to transport natural gas under firm service agreements, making its operations vulnerable to supply or capacity disruptions caused by operational failures, extreme weather, cyber or security events or regulatory actions. Any constraints on natural gas infrastructure development could disrupt supply, reduce earnings and limit future growth opportunities.

End NoteDuke Energy is expanding its operations by investing in modern technology, renewable energy and the growing EV market. However, its reliance on interstate natural gas pipelines exposes it to risks like supply disruptions, regulatory issues and infrastructure constraints that could impact earnings and growth.

Investors already holding the stock may continue to do so and benefit from earnings growth. However, given its premium valuation and lower ROE, new investors may prefer to wait for a more attractive entry point.

The Zacks Utilities sector’s first-quarter 2026 earnings are likely to have benefited from recently implemented electric, natural gas and water rate hikes, along with ongoing cost-efficiency measures and a growing customer base. Rising demand from data centers is also expected to have supported bottom-line growth. According to the latest Earnings Preview, the sector’s earnings are projected to increase 7.9% on revenue growth of 8%.

With the assistance of the Zacks Stock Screener, we have identified three utilities, namely Vistra Corp. (VST - Free Report) , Ameren Corporation (AEE - Free Report) and PPL Corporation (PPL - Free Report) , which are poised to beat on earnings this reporting cycle.

These stocks have the ideal combination of two ingredients — a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy), or 3 (Hold) — to surpass expectations. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they are reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.

Major Drivers of Utility Stocks’ Q1 PerformanceUtilities are set to benefit from rising electricity demand, primarily fueled by the rapid expansion of data centers, particularly those supporting AI, along with increased consumption from commercial and industrial customers. In addition, the reshoring of industries amid geopolitical uncertainty has been creating fresh demand for utility services. Collectively, these factors are likely to have supported higher revenues in the upcoming quarter.

Utility service providers continue to benefit from several supportive factors, including higher electricity rates, value-accretive acquisitions, cost-cutting measures and the rollout of energy-efficiency programs. These companies have also been gaining from ongoing investments to strengthen infrastructure against extreme weather, along with a steady transition toward cost-effective renewable energy sources for power generation.

Utilities have been investing in smart meter deployments, expanding transmission and distribution networks and strengthening infrastructure maintenance, all of which enhance operational efficiency and support better customer engagement. These efforts help lower costs, drive revenue growth and improve overall grid management.

At the same time, improving economic conditions across service territories are generating new demand for utility services, supporting stronger revenues and overall performance.

Potential Utility Outperformers for This Earnings SeasonAmeren generates and distributes electricity and natural gas to residential, commercial, industrial and wholesale end markets in Missouri and Illinois. The company's systematic investments in growth projects, infrastructure upgrades and renewable portfolio will help improve service reliability and generate higher profits. Ameren plans a major expansion of its clean energy portfolio, targeting the addition of 2,700 MW of renewable generation capacity by 2030 and reaching a total of 4,200 MW by 2035.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its first-quarter earnings is pegged at $1.17 per share, indicating an increase of 9.35% from the year-ago reported figure. AEE currently has an Earnings ESP of +1.29% and a Zacks Rank #3. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.

Vistra is an integrated power company operating in competitive U.S. markets, supplying electricity and natural gas to residential, commercial and industrial customers, while managing a diversified generation fleet that supports and hedges its retail operations. Long-term contracts with high-quality partners strengthen stability.

 The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its first-quarter earnings is pegged at $2.21 per share, indicating an increase of 380.43% from the year-ago reported figure. VST currently has an Earnings ESP of +4.79% and a Zacks Rank #3.

PPL Corporation primarily generates electricity from power plants in the northeastern, northwestern and southeastern United States. The company markets wholesale or retail energy chiefly in northeastern and northwestern portions of the United States. PPL is experiencing load growth, driven by data center demand. In Pennsylvania, nearly 25.2 GW (up from 20.5 GW) of potential data-center demand is in the advanced stages. In the Kentucky segment, the Economic development queue holds total potential load growth of 9.3 GW through 2032 (up from 8.5 GW).

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its first-quarter earnings is pegged at 0.61 cents per share, indicating an increase of 1.67% from the year-ago reported figure. PPL currently has an Earnings ESP of +0.41% and a Zacks Rank #3.

Ameren (AEE - Free Report) reported $2.18 billion in revenue for the quarter ended March 2026, representing a year-over-year increase of 3.8%. EPS of $1.28 for the same period compares to $1.07 a year ago.

The reported revenue represents a surprise of -2.85% over the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.24 billion. With the consensus EPS estimate being $1.17, the EPS surprise was +9.87%.

While investors closely watch year-over-year changes in headline numbers -- revenue and earnings -- and how they compare to Wall Street expectations to determine their next course of action, some key metrics always provide a better insight into a company's underlying performance.

Since these metrics play a crucial role in driving the top- and bottom-line numbers, comparing them with the year-ago numbers and what analysts estimated about them helps investors better project a stock's price performance.

Here is how Ameren performed in the just reported quarter in terms of the metrics most widely monitored and projected by Wall Street analysts:

Electric Revenues- Ameren Missouri- Total: $851 million versus $1.01 billion estimated by two analysts on average. Compared to the year-ago quarter, this number represents a -4.7% change.Gas Revenues- Ameren Illinois Natural Gas: $436 million versus $426.63 million estimated by two analysts on average. Compared to the year-ago quarter, this number represents a +6.1% change.Electric Revenues- Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution- Total: $643 million versus the two-analyst average estimate of $579.18 million. The reported number represents a year-over-year change of +12.4%.View all Key Company Metrics for Ameren here>>>

Shares of Ameren have returned +0.9% over the past month versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +9.5% change. The stock currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), indicating that it could perform in line with the broader market in the near term.

Key Takeaways AEE Q1 EPS of $1.28 beat estimates by 9.9% and rose 19.6% year over year.AEE growth driven by infrastructure investments, though electricity and gas volumes declined.AEE reaffirmed 2026 EPS guidance of $5.25-$5.45, above consensus midpoint expectations. Ameren Corporation (AEE - Free Report) reported first-quarter 2026 earnings of $1.28 per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.17 by 9.9%. The bottom line increased 19.6% from the year-ago quarter’s recorded figure.

The quarterly results reflected earnings on infrastructure investments to improve system reliability, resilience, and service quality for its Ameren Missouri and Illinois electric and natural gas customers.

AEE’s RevenuesTotal revenues were $2.18 billion, up 3.8% year over year. The top line missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.24 billion by 2.9%.

AEE: Highlights of the ReleaseAmeren’s total electricity sales volumes decreased 4.2% to 17,052 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) compared with 17,808 million kWh in the year-ago period. Gas volumes declined 5.4% year over year to 70 million dekatherms.

Total operating expenses were $1.64 billion, down 1.4% year over year.

The company’s interest expenses in the first quarter totaled $204 million compared with the prior-year quarter’s $175 million.

AEE’s Segmental ResultsThe Ameren Missouri segment reported adjusted earnings of $76 million compared with $42 million a year ago. The year-over-year increase was driven by earnings from higher infrastructure investments, including those incorporated into electric and natural gas service rates that became effective on June 1, 2025, and Sept. 1, 2025, respectively.

The Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution segment reported adjusted earnings of $66 million compared with $63 million in the year-ago quarter.

The Ameren Illinois Natural Gas segment reported adjusted earnings of $122 million compared with $108 million in the prior-year quarter.

The Ameren Transmission segment reported adjusted earnings of $98 million compared with $89 million in the year-ago quarter.

AEE’s Financial ConditionAmeren reported cash and cash equivalents of $13 million as of March 31, 2026, which remained unchanged sequentially.

As of March 31, 2026, the long-term debt totaled $19 billion compared with $18.21 billion as of Dec. 31, 2025.

Net cash flows from operating activities in the first three months of 2026 were $421 million compared with $431 million in 2025.

AEE’s GuidanceAmeren has reaffirmed its 2026 earnings guidance. It expects to generate earnings per share (EPS) in the range of $5.25-$5.45. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 earnings is pegged at $5.32, which is lower that the midpoint of the company’s guided range.

AEE’s Zacks RankAmeren currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

Recent Utility ReleasesCenterPoint Energy, Inc. (CNP - Free Report) reported first-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings of 56 cents per share, which missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 58 cents by 3.8%. However, the bottom line increased 5.7% from 53 cents in the year-ago quarter.

CNP generated revenues of $2.98 billion, which missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.04 billion by 1.4%. The top line improved 2% from the year-ago reported figure of $2.92 billion.

CMS Energy Corporation (CMS - Free Report) reported first-quarter 2026 earnings of $1.13 per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus 
Estimate of $1.11 by 1.8%. The bottom line also increased 10.8% from $1.02 in the prior-year quarter.

CMS’ operating revenues totaled $2.73 billion, which topped the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.53 billion by 8.1%. The top line increased 11.6% from $2.45 billion in the prior-year quarter.

Edison International (EIX - Free Report) posted quarterly earnings of $1.42 per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.32 by 7.6%. The bottom line increased 3.7% from $1.37 in the year-ago quarter.

Edison International's first-quarter operating revenues totaled $4.1 billion, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.99 billion by 2.8%. The top line increased 7.6% from the year-ago quarter’s figure of $3.81 billion.

Whether it's through stocks, bonds, ETFs, or other types of securities, all investors love seeing their portfolios score big returns. But for income investors, generating consistent cash flow from each of your liquid investments is your primary focus.

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 account for significant portions of long-term returns, with dividend contributions exceeding one-third of total returns in many cases.

Based in St Louis, Ameren (AEE - Free Report) is in the Utilities sector, and so far this year, shares have seen a price change of 9.75%. The utility is paying out a dividend of $0.75 per share at the moment, with a dividend yield of 2.74% compared to the Utility - Electric Power industry's yield of 2.95% and the S&P 500's yield of 1.43%.

Looking at dividend growth, the company's current annualized dividend of $3.00 is up 5.6% from last year. Over the last 5 years, Ameren has increased its dividend 5 times on a year-over-year basis for an average annual increase of 7.11%. 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. Ameren's current payout ratio is 57%, meaning it paid out 57% of its trailing 12-month EPS as dividend.

AEE is expecting earnings to expand this fiscal year as well. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 is $5.32 per share, with earnings expected to increase 5.77% from the year ago period.

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.

For instance, it's a rare occurrence when a tech start-up or big growth business offers its shareholders a dividend. It's more common to see larger companies with more established profits give out dividends. 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, AEE is a compelling investment opportunity. Not only is it a strong dividend play, but the stock currently sits at a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold).

, /PRNewswire/ -- The Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) has selected a consortium of Ameren Transmission Company of Illinois (ATXI), a subsidiary of Ameren Corporation (NYSE: AEE); GridLiance Heartland, LLC, a subsidiary of NextEra Energy Transmission, LLC; Dairyland Power Cooperative; and the Illinois Municipal Electric Agency (IMEA) to develop, build, operate and maintain two major transmission projects. ATXI and GridLiance will lead the development of these projects, while Dairyland and IMEA will own a portion of both projects when they are placed in service.

MISO has selected a consortium of Ameren, GridLiance, Dairyland and IMEA to deliver major grid-bolstering projects in Illinois. The Sub T – Iowa/Illinois State Line – Woodford County (STIW) and Woodford County – Illinois/Indiana State Line (WIIL) projects are the foundation of a new 765-kilovolt (kV) backbone that will deliver safe, reliable and cost-competitive energy to serve Midwest communities for decades to come. 

The STIW project includes the construction of two new 765-kV transmission lines spanning approximately 149 miles. One 765-kV line will run from the Woodford County Substation west to the Iowa/Illinois state line, and the other 765-kV line will continue west from the Iowa/Illinois state line to the Sub T Substation in Iowa. The STIW project has a MISO estimated cost of $940 million.

The WIIL project includes the construction of two new 765-kV transmission lines that span a total of 88 miles and the construction of a new 765/345-kV substation. One 765-kV line will run east from the existing Woodford County Substation in central Illinois to the Illinois/Indiana state line. The other 765-kV line will run northeast from the Woodford County Substation for approximately 1.5 miles toward the existing Collins Substation before interconnecting with a separate 765-kV line segment. The WIIL project has a MISO estimated cost of $718 million.

ATXI, GridLiance, Dairyland and IMEA will have ownership stakes in both projects of 43%, 43%, 11% and 3%, respectively.

"We are committed to delivering infrastructure that strengthens the grid and creates value for customers both now and over the long term," said Shawn Schukar, chairman and president of ATXI. "The collaboration between ATXI, GridLiance, Dairyland and IMEA enables us to work with our local communities, regulators and local contractors to effectively and efficiently build this valuable transmission system expansion while supporting the growth in our region."

"These projects are critical to building a stronger, more resilient transmission backbone for the Midwest," said Matt Valle, president of NextEra Energy Transmission, LLC. "We're proud to work with ATXI, Dairyland and IMEA to deliver needed energy infrastructure to enhance reliability, support growing energy needs and benefit communities for decades to come."

"As a critical services provider, Dairyland is pleased to be part of a consortium that will help ensure the reliability and flexibility of the transmission system in the Upper Midwest for current and future generations," said Ben Porath, Dairyland executive vice president and chief operating officer.

"Increasing transmission capacity on the grid is critical to improving resiliency, integrating new resources and supporting long‑term economic developments," said IMEA CEO and President Doug Brown. "The Illinois Municipal Electric Agency is proud to be a partner on these projects."

Both WIIL and STIW are competitive projects in MISO's Long Range Transmission Planning Tranche 2.1 Portfolio, which was originally approved in December 2024. Both projects have expected in-service dates of 2034, following the regulatory review process and thorough stakeholder and community engagement.

About Ameren Corporation
St. Louis-based Ameren Corporation powers the quality of life for 2.5 million electric customers and more than 900,000 natural gas customers in a 64,000-square-mile area through its Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois rate-regulated utility subsidiaries. Ameren Illinois provides electric transmission and distribution services and natural gas distribution services. Ameren Missouri provides electric generation, transmission and distribution services, as well as natural gas distribution services. Ameren Transmission Company of Illinois develops, owns and operates rate-regulated regional electric transmission projects in the Midcontinent Independent System Operator, Inc. For more information, visit Ameren.com, or follow us at @AmerenCorp, Facebook.com/AmerenCorp, or LinkedIn.com/company/Ameren.

About NextEra Energy Transmission
NextEra Energy Transmission, LLC is North America's leading competitive transmission company. With more than 3,200 miles of transmission lines in operation and development in 19 states and Canada, the company is strengthening and modernizing the electric grid to meet the country's growing energy needs. NextEra Energy Transmission owns, develops, finances, constructs, operates and maintains transmission assets across the continent. The company operates through its regional subsidiaries to integrate diverse energy sources. NextEra Energy Transmission, LLC is a subsidiary of Juno Beach, Florida-based NextEra Energy, Inc. For more information, visit www.NextEraEnergyTransmission.com. 

About Dairyland Power Cooperative
Headquartered in La Crosse, Wis., Dairyland provides the wholesale electrical requirements for 24 distribution cooperatives and 27 municipal utilities. These cooperatives and municipals, in turn, supply the energy needs of over 800,000 people in a four-state service area. Dairyland delivers electricity via 3,708 miles of transmission lines and 400 distribution substations located throughout the system's 44,500 square mile service area. Visit www.DairylandPower.com.

About Illinois Municipal Electric Agency
The Illinois Municipal Electric Agency (IMEA) is a not-for-profit unit of local government created in 1984 that provides wholesale power supply and related services to municipal electric systems across Illinois. IMEA is currently comprised of 32 municipal electric systems, each of which owns and operates its own electric distribution system, with some also operating local power generation plants. Through collective action, IMEA helps its member communities secure affordable, reliable and sustainable energy while preserving local control over rates, services and utility-related solutions. For more information, visit www.imea.org.

SOURCE Ameren Corporation

Former TVA Leader Brings 25 Years of Industry Experience

, /PRNewswire/ -- Ameren Corporation (NYSE: AEE) announced today that Aaron Melda, an executive with more than 25 years of utility leadership experience, will be the next chairman and president of Ameren Missouri, an electric and gas service provider and subsidiary of Ameren Corporation.

Melda has a proven track record of driving operational excellence across various leadership roles. His expertise spans power generation, energy delivery, transmission, nuclear operations, external affairs, commercial operations and enterprise planning.

Aaron Melda is named chairman and president of Ameren Missouri, an electric and gas service provider and subsidiary of Ameren Corporation. "Aaron brings extensive experience and a collaborative, transformational leadership style that we welcome at Ameren, but more than that, he brings a real passion for the customers and communities we serve," said Martin J. Lyons Jr., chairman, president and CEO of Ameren Corporation. "His commitment to driving excellence and efficiency is all about delivering for customers, and that mindset makes him an excellent fit for our team."

Melda most recently served as senior vice president of strategy, commercial operations & external affairs for Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), where he was responsible for enterprise strategy, economic development, commercial operations, federal affairs, and customer and community relations. Prior to that, he held the position of senior vice president for transmission & power supply. Melda held several positions of increasing responsibility during his time at TVA, including serving as executive director for the Watts Bar Nuclear Unit 2 completion and senior vice president of operations support.

Melda will report to Michael Moehn, group president of Ameren Utilities.

Before joining TVA in 2005, Melda held leadership roles with Siemens Power Generation in Georgia. He began his career there as a field engineer and project manager providing turbine and generator services to utilities across the United States. Melda holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Georgia Tech and an MBA from Vanderbilt University.

About Ameren Corporation
St. Louis-based Ameren Corporation powers the quality of life for 2.5 million electric customers and more than 900,000 natural gas customers in a 64,000-square-mile area through its Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois rate-regulated utility subsidiaries. Ameren Illinois provides electric transmission and distribution service and natural gas distribution service. Ameren Missouri provides electric generation, transmission and distribution services, as well as natural gas distribution service. Ameren Transmission Company of Illinois develops, owns and operates rate-regulated regional electric transmission projects in the Midcontinent Independent System Operator, Inc. For more information, visit Ameren.com, or follow us at @AmerenCorp, Facebook.com/AmerenCorp, or LinkedIn.com/company/Ameren. 

SOURCE Ameren Corporation

A month has gone by since the last earnings report for Ameren (AEE - Free Report) . Shares have lost about 3.1% in that time frame, underperforming the S&P 500.

Will the recent negative trend continue leading up to its next earnings release, or is Ameren due for a breakout? Well, first let's take a quick look at its most recent earnings report in order to get a better handle on the recent catalysts for Ameren Corporation before we dive into how investors and analysts have reacted as of late.

Ameren Q1 Earnings Outpace Estimates, Revenues Increase Y/Y

Ameren Corporation reported first-quarter 2026 earnings of $1.28 per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.17 by 9.4%. The bottom line increased 19.6% from the year-ago quarter’s recorded figure.

The quarterly results reflected earnings on infrastructure investments to improve system reliability, resilience, and service quality for its Ameren Missouri and Illinois electric and natural gas customers.

AEE’s RevenuesTotal revenues were $2.18 billion, up 3.8% year over year. The top line missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.24 billion by 2.9%.

AEE: Highlights of the ReleaseAmeren’s total electricity sales volumes decreased 4.2% to 17,052 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) compared with 17,808 million kWh in the year-ago period. Gas volumes declined 5.4% year over year to 70 million dekatherms.

Total operating expenses were $1.64 billion, down 1.4% year over year.

The company’s interest expenses in the first quarter totaled $204 million compared with the prior-year quarter’s $175 million.

AEE’s Segmental ResultsThe Ameren Missouri segment reported adjusted earnings of $76 million compared with $42 million a year ago. The year-over-year increase was driven by earnings from higher infrastructure investments, including those incorporated into electric and natural gas service rates that became effective on June 1, 2025, and Sept. 1, 2025, respectively.

The Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution segment reported adjusted earnings of $66 million compared with $63 million in the year-ago quarter.

The Ameren Illinois Natural Gas segment reported adjusted earnings of $122 million compared with $108 million in the prior-year quarter.

The Ameren Transmission segment reported adjusted earnings of $98 million compared with $89 million in the year-ago quarter.

AEE’s Financial ConditionAmeren reported cash and cash equivalents of $13 million as of March 31, 2026, which remained unchanged sequentially.

As of March 31, 2026, the long-term debt totaled $19 billion compared with $18.21 billion as of Dec. 31, 2025.

Net cash flows from operating activities in the first three months of 2026 were $421 million compared with $431 million in 2025.

AEE’s GuidanceAmeren has reaffirmed its 2026 earnings guidance. It expects to generate earnings per share (EPS) in the range of $5.25-$5.45. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 earnings is pegged at $5.32, which is lower that the midpoint of the company’s guided range.

How Have Estimates Been Moving Since Then?It turns out, estimates review have trended downward during the past month.

VGM ScoresAt this time, Ameren has a average Growth Score of C, however its Momentum Score is doing a lot better with an A. However, the stock was allocated a score of C on the value side, putting it in the middle 20% for value investors.

Overall, the stock has an aggregate VGM Score of C. If you aren't focused on one strategy, this score is the one you should be interested in.

OutlookEstimates have been broadly trending downward for the stock, and the magnitude of this revision indicates a downward shift. Interestingly, Ameren has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). We expect an in-line return from the stock in the next few months.

Performance of an Industry PlayerAmeren is part of the Zacks Utility - Electric Power industry. Over the past month, PG&E (PCG - Free Report) , a stock from the same industry, has gained 4%. The company reported its results for the quarter ended March 2026 more than a month ago.

PG&E reported revenues of $6.88 billion in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +15%. EPS of $0.43 for the same period compares with $0.33 a year ago.

For the current quarter, PG&E is expected to post earnings of $0.37 per share, indicating a change of +19.4% from the year-ago quarter. The Zacks Consensus Estimate remained unchanged over the last 30 days.

The overall direction and magnitude of estimate revisions translate into a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) for PG&E. Also, the stock has a VGM Score of B.

Bridgefront Capital LLC purchased a new position in Air Lease Corporation (NYSE: AL) in the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund purchased 11,211 shares of the transportation company's stock, valued at approximately $714,000. Several other institutional investors have also

Investors interested in stocks from the Transportation - Equipment and Leasing sector have probably already heard of Air Lease (AL) and Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies (WAB). But which of these two stocks presents investors with the better value opportunity right now?

It doesn't matter your age or experience: taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals for all investors. Luckily, Zacks Premium offers several different ways to do both.

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What are the Zacks Style Scores? Developed alongside the Zacks Rank, the Zacks Style Scores are a group of complementary indicators that help investors pick stocks with the best chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.

Each stock is given an alphabetic rating of A, B, C, D or F based on their value, growth, and momentum qualities. With this system, an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on, meaning the better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform.

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Value ScoreValue investors love finding good stocks at good prices, especially before the broader market catches on to a stock's true value. Utilizing ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and many other multiples, the Value Style Score identifies the most attractive and most discounted stocks.

Growth ScoreWhile good value is important, growth investors are more focused on a company's financial strength and health, and its future outlook. The Growth Style Score takes projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow into account to uncover stocks that will see long-term, sustainable growth.

Momentum ScoreMomentum trading is all about taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook, and these investors live by the saying "the trend is your friend." The Momentum Style Score can pinpoint good times to build a position in a stock, using factors like one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates.

VGM ScoreWhat if you like to use all three types of investing? The VGM Score is a combination of all Style Scores, making it one of the most comprehensive indicators to use with the Zacks Rank. It rates each stock on their combined weighted styles, which helps narrow down the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum.

How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank A proprietary stock-rating model, the Zacks Rank utilizes the power of earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings outlook, to help investors create a successful portfolio.

Investors can count on the Zacks Rank's success, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +23.93% average annual return since 1988, more than double the S&P 500's performance. But the model rates a large number of stocks, and there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.

With more than 800 top-rated stocks to choose from, it can certainly feel overwhelming to pick the ones that are right for you and your investing journey.

That's where the Style Scores come in.

To have the best chance of big returns, you'll want to always consider stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B, which will give you the highest probability of success. If you're looking at stocks with a #3 (Hold) rank, it's important they have Scores of A or B as well to ensure as much upside potential as possible.

Since the Scores were created to work together with the Zacks Rank, the direction of a stock's earnings estimate revisions should be a key factor when choosing which stocks to buy.

Here's an example: a stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, even one with Style Scores of A and B, still has a downward-trending earnings outlook, and a bigger chance its share price will decrease too.

Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.

Stock to Watch: Air Lease Founded in 2010, Los Angeles, CA-based Air Lease Corporation is a leading aircraft leasing company. It is primarily involved in purchasing commercial aircraft directly from the manufacturers, leasing the same to its airline customers across the globe. Some noteworthy manufacturers that the company works with are The Boeing Company and Airbus S.A.S.

AL is a #2 (Buy) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of B.

It also boasts a Value Style Score of A thanks to attractive valuation metrics like a forward P/E ratio of 8.87; value investors should take notice.

For fiscal 2026, one analyst revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days, and the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.35 to $7.30 per share. AL boasts an average earnings surprise of +14.6%.

With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Value and VGM Style Scores, AL should be on investors' short list.

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Air Lease (NYSE: AL) announced today the receipt of the final regulatory approval that is a condition to closing Air Lease’s previously announced merger with a subsidiary of Sumisho Air Lease Corporation DAC, a holding company based in Dublin, Ireland, whose shares at closing will be held directly or indirectly by Sumitomo Corporation, SMBC Aviation Capital Limited and investment vehicles affiliated with Apollo managed funds and Brookfield.

Air Lease expects to complete the merger on or about April 8, 2026, subject to the satisfaction of the remaining closing conditions set forth in the merger agreement and discussed in detail in the definitive proxy statement filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission by Air Lease on November 4, 2025. Under the terms of the merger agreement, upon completion of the merger, Air Lease’s Class A common stockholders will be entitled to receive $65.00 in cash, without interest and subject to any applicable withholding taxes, for each share of Class A common stock of Air Lease held immediately prior to the effective time of the merger. Additionally, under the terms of the merger agreement, each share of 4.65% Fixed-Rate Reset Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series B, 4.125% Fixed-Rate Reset Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series C, and 6.00% Fixed-Rate Reset Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series D, of Air Lease issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the merger will remain outstanding as preferred stock of the surviving corporation. Upon completion of the merger, Air Lease will be renamed Sumisho Air Lease Corporation.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “anticipates,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “projects,” “believes,” “may,” “will,” “would,” “could,” “should,” “seeks,” “estimates” and variations on these words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements.

All statements, other than historical facts, including statements regarding the expected timing of the closing of the merger; the ability of the parties to complete the merger considering the various closing conditions; the expected benefits of the merger; and any assumptions underlying any of the foregoing, are forward-looking statements. Such statements are based upon current plans, estimates and expectations that are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those indicated or anticipated by such forward-looking statements. The inclusion of such statements should not be regarded as a representation that such plans, estimates or expectations will be achieved. You should not place undue reliance on such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such plans, estimates or expectations include, among others, that (i) one or more closing conditions to the merger may not be satisfied or waived, on a timely basis or otherwise; (ii) the business of Air Lease may suffer as a result of uncertainty surrounding the merger and there may be challenges with employee retention as a result of the pending merger; (iii) the merger agreement contains restrictions on Air Lease’s ability to incur additional debt, which may negatively impact its liquidity and ability to maintain its investment grade ratings; (iv) the merger may involve unexpected costs, liabilities or delays; (v) legal proceedings have been and may continue to be initiated related to the merger; (vi) changes in economic conditions, political conditions and changes in laws or regulations may occur; (vii) an event, change or other circumstance may occur that could give rise to the termination of the merger agreement (including circumstances requiring a party to pay the other party a termination fee pursuant to the merger agreement); and (viii) other risk factors as detailed from time to time in Air Lease’s reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including Air Lease’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, which are available on the SEC’s website (www.sec.gov). There can be no assurance that the merger will be completed, or if it is completed, that it will close within the anticipated time period or that the expected benefits of the merger will be realized.

In addition, new risks and uncertainties may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for Air Lease to predict or assess the impact of every factor that may cause its actual results to differ from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release. Air Lease expressly disclaims any obligation to revise or update publicly any forward-looking statement to reflect actual results or events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

About Air Lease (NYSE: AL)

Air Lease is a leading global aircraft leasing company based in Los Angeles, California that has airline customers throughout the world. Air Lease and its team of dedicated and experienced professionals are principally engaged in purchasing new commercial aircraft and leasing them to its airline customers worldwide through customized aircraft leasing and financing solutions. The company routinely posts information that may be important to investors in the “Investors” section of its website at www.airleasecorp.com. Investors and potential investors are encouraged to consult Air Lease’s website regularly for important information. The information contained on, or that may be accessed through, Air Lease’s website is not incorporated by reference into, and is not a part of, this press release.

For new and old investors, taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals. Zacks Premium provides lots of different ways to do both.

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It also includes access to the Zacks Style Scores.

What are the Zacks Style Scores? The Zacks Style Scores is a unique set of guidelines that rates stocks based on three popular investing types, and were developed as complementary indicators for the Zacks Rank. This combination helps investors choose securities with the highest chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.

Each stock is assigned a rating of A, B, C, D, or F based on their value, growth, and momentum characteristics. Just like in school, an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on -- that means the better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform.

The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:

Value ScoreValue investors love finding good stocks at good prices, especially before the broader market catches on to a stock's true value. Utilizing ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and many other multiples, the Value Style Score identifies the most attractive and most discounted stocks.

Growth ScoreGrowth investors, on the other hand, are more concerned with a company's financial strength and health, and its future outlook. The Growth Style Score examines things like projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow to find stocks that will experience sustainable growth over time.

Momentum ScoreMomentum investors, who live by the saying "the trend is your friend," are most interested in taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook. Utilizing one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates, among other factors, the Momentum Style Score can help determine favorable times to buy high-momentum stocks.

VGM ScoreWhat if you like to use all three types of investing? The VGM Score is a combination of all Style Scores, making it one of the most comprehensive indicators to use with the Zacks Rank. It rates each stock on their combined weighted styles, which helps narrow down the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum.

How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank The Zacks Rank, which is a proprietary stock-rating model, employs earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings expectations, to make building a winning portfolio easier.

It's highly successful, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +23.93% average annual return since 1988. That's more than double the S&P 500. But because of the large number of stocks we rate, there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.

With more than 800 top-rated stocks to choose from, it can certainly feel overwhelming to pick the ones that are right for you and your investing journey.

That's where the Style Scores come in.

You want to make sure you're buying stocks with the highest likelihood of success, and to do that, you'll need to pick stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B. If you like a stock that only has a #3 (Hold) rank, it should also have Scores of A or B to guarantee as much upside potential as possible.

As mentioned above, the Scores are designed to work with the Zacks Rank, so any change to a company's earnings outlook should be a deciding factor when picking which stocks to buy.

Here's an example: a stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, even one with Style Scores of A and B, still has a downward-trending earnings outlook, and a bigger chance its share price will decrease too.

Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.

Stock to Watch: Air Lease Founded in 2010, Los Angeles, CA-based Air Lease Corporation is a leading aircraft leasing company. It is primarily involved in purchasing commercial aircraft directly from the manufacturers, leasing the same to its airline customers across the globe. Some noteworthy manufacturers that the company works with are The Boeing Company and Airbus S.A.S.

AL is a #2 (Buy) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of B.

Momentum investors should take note of this Transportation stock. AL has a Momentum Style Score of B, and shares are up 0.1% over the past four weeks.

One analyst revised their earnings estimate higher in the last 60 days for fiscal 2026, while the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.35 to $7.30 per share. AL also boasts an average earnings surprise of +14.6%.

With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Momentum and VGM Style Scores, AL should be on investors' short list.

Investors with an interest in Transportation - Equipment and Leasing stocks have likely encountered both Air Lease and Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies (WAB - Free Report) . But which of these two stocks is more attractive to value investors? We'll need to take a closer look to find out.

We have found that the best way to discover great value opportunities is to pair a strong Zacks Rank with a great grade in the Value category of our Style Scores system. The Zacks Rank favors stocks with strong earnings estimate revision trends, and our Style Scores highlight companies with specific traits.

Air Lease and Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies are sporting Zacks Ranks of #2 (Buy) and #3 (Hold), respectively, right now. Investors should feel comfortable knowing that AL likely has seen a stronger improvement to its earnings outlook than WAB has recently. But this is only part of the picture for value investors.

Value investors also try to analyze a wide range of traditional figures and metrics to help determine whether a company is undervalued at its current share price levels.

Our Value category grades stocks based on a number of key metrics, including the tried-and-true P/E ratio, the P/S ratio, earnings yield, and cash flow per share, as well as a variety of other fundamentals that value investors frequently use.

AL currently has a forward P/E ratio of 8.90, while WAB has a forward P/E of 24.84. We also note that AL has a PEG ratio of 0.51. This popular figure is similar to the widely-used P/E ratio, but the PEG ratio also considers a company's expected EPS growth rate. WAB currently has a PEG ratio of 1.95.

Another notable valuation metric for AL is its P/B ratio of 0.86. Investors use the P/B ratio to look at a stock's market value versus its book value, which is defined as total assets minus total liabilities. By comparison, WAB has a P/B of 3.91.

These metrics, and several others, help AL earn a Value grade of A, while WAB has been given a Value grade of D.

AL stands above WAB thanks to its solid earnings outlook, and based on these valuation figures, we also feel that AL is the superior value option right now.

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sumisho Air Lease announces financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2026.

First Quarter 2026 Results

The following table summarizes the operating results for Sumisho Air Lease Corporation (the “Company”) for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025 (in millions, except per share amounts and percentages):

Operating Results

Three Months Ended

March 31,

2026

2025

$ change

% change

Revenues

$

739.2

$

738.3

$

0.9

0.1

%

Operating expenses

(589.3

)

(598.6

)

9.3

(1.6

)%

Recoveries of Russian fleet write-off

—

331.9

(331.9

)

—

Income before taxes

149.9

471.7

(321.8

)

(68.2

)%

Net income attributable to common stockholders

$

114.8

$

364.8

$

(250.0

)

(68.5

)%

Diluted earnings per share

$

1.02

$

3.26

$

(2.24

)

(68.7

)%

Adjusted net income before income taxes(1)

$

165.4

$

169.5

$

(4.1

)

(2.4

)%

Adjusted diluted earnings per share before income taxes(1)

$

1.47

$

1.51

$

(0.04

)

(2.6

)%

Key Financial Ratios

Three Months Ended

March 31,

2026

2025

Pre-tax margin

20.3%

63.9%

Adjusted pre-tax margin(1)

22.4%

23.0%

  Highlights

On April 8, 2026, Air Lease Corporation completed the previously announced merger (the “Merger”) of Takeoff Merger Sub Inc., with and into Air Lease Corporation, with Air Lease Corporation surviving the Merger as an indirect subsidiary of Sumisho Air Lease Corporation Designated Activity Company (“Parent”). Parent is a new holding company established in connection with the Merger and is jointly owned, directly or indirectly, by Sumitomo Corporation, SMBC Aviation Capital Limited (“SMBC AC”) and investment vehicles affiliated with Apollo managed funds and Brookfield. Air Lease Corporation changed its name to Sumisho Air Lease Corporation in connection with the Merger. During the first quarter, we took delivery of 12 aircraft from our orderbook, representing $780 million in aircraft investments, ending the period with 496 aircraft in our owned fleet and over $33 billion in total assets. Sold six aircraft during the first quarter for $275 million in sales proceeds. We have $5.6 billion of aircraft in our sales pipeline1, which includes approximately $940 million in flight equipment held for sale as of March 31, 2026 and approximately $4.6 billion of aircraft subject to letters of intent. Financial Overview

First Quarter 2026 vs. First Quarter 2025

Our total rental of flight equipment revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2026 increased by approximately 4%, to $674 million, as compared to the three months ended March 31, 2025. The increase is primarily due to the growth of our flight equipment subject to operating leases since March 31, 2025 and an increase in our portfolio yield.

Our gain on aircraft sales and trading and other income decreased to $65 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026, as compared to $93 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, which was primarily driven by lower sales activity. During the three months ended March 31, 2026, we recorded $53 million in gains from the sale of six aircraft, compared to $61 million in gains from the sale of 16 aircraft and $8 million from one sales-type lease for the three months ended March 31, 2025. In addition, we had a $8 million decrease in management fee revenue and a $4 million decrease in other income, which includes interest income, foreign currency fluctuations on our sales-type leases and other miscellaneous income from the prior year period.

Our total operating expenses decreased by 2% to $589 million during the three months ended March 31, 2026, as compared to $599 million of total operating expenses, excluding the recovery of our Russian fleet write-off of $332 million, during the three months ended March 31, 2025. Despite the increase in our composite cost of funds, our interest expense decreased by $8 million due to lower average debt balances during the period. In addition, although we incurred $9 million in merger-related costs during the first quarter of 2026, this was largely offset by non-recurring retirement expenses for our former executive chairman recognized during the first quarter of 2025, resulting in our selling, general and administrative expenses to be relatively flat as compared to the prior year period. Depreciation expense for the three months ended March 31, 2026, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2025 increased $11 million due to the growth of our fleet.

Our net income attributable to common stockholders for the three months ended March 31, 2026 decreased to $115 million, or $1.02 per diluted share, from $365 million, or $3.26 per diluted share, for the three months ended March 31, 2025. In the prior year, we benefited from a $332 million settlement of insurance claims with certain insurers related to aircraft detained in Russia, as well as higher gains on sales, resulting in a decrease in our net income attributable to common stockholders in the current period. These were slightly offset by higher total rental of flight equipment revenue in the current period and an overall decrease in our total operating expenses, as discussed above.

For the three months ended March 31, 2026, we recorded adjusted net income before income taxes of $165 million, or $1.47 per adjusted diluted share, as compared to adjusted net income before income taxes of $169 million, or $1.51 per adjusted diluted share, for the three months ended March 31, 2025. Despite the increase in our rental revenues due to the growth of our fleet and higher portfolio lease yield in the current period, our adjusted net income decreased primarily due to lower sales activity and an increase in depreciation expense, partially offset by a decrease in interest expense due to lower average debt balances during the period.

Flight Equipment Portfolio

As of March 31, 2026, the net book value of our flight equipment subject to operating leases was $28.9 billion, compared to $29.1 billion as of December 31, 2025. During the quarter, we reclassified $628.9 million in aircraft value to flight equipment held for sale, resulting in a decrease in the net book value of our fleet. As of March 31, 2026, we owned 496 aircraft in our aircraft portfolio, comprised of 357 narrowbody aircraft and 139 widebody aircraft, and we managed 40 aircraft. The weighted average fleet age and weighted average remaining lease term of flight equipment subject to operating leases as of March 31, 2026 was 5.0 years and 7.2 years, respectively. We had a globally diversified customer base comprised of 103 airlines in 52 countries as of March 31, 2026.

The following table summarizes the key portfolio metrics of our fleet as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025:

March 31, 2026

December 31, 2025

Net book value of flight equipment subject to operating leases

$

28.9 billion

$

29.1 billion

Weighted-average fleet age(1)

5.0 years

4.9 years

Weighted-average remaining lease term(1)

7.2 years

7.2 years

Owned fleet(2)

$

496

$

490

Managed fleet(3)

40

45

Aircraft on order(4)

206

218

Total

742

753

Current fleet contracted rentals

$

19.2 billion

$

19.6 billion

Committed fleet rentals(4)

$

8.6 billion

$

9.3 billion

Total committed rentals

$

27.8 billion

$

28.9 billion

(1)

Weighted-average fleet age and remaining lease term calculated based on net book value of our flight equipment subject to operating leases.

(2)

As of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, our owned fleet count included 25 and 12 aircraft classified as flight equipment held for sale, respectively, and 17 and 16 aircraft classified as net investments in sales-type leases, respectively.

(3)

We will continue to manage our managed fleet after the Merger; however, certain services for the aircraft and leases will be subserviced by SMBC AC.

(4)

On April 8, 2026, in connection with the closing of the Merger, SMBC AC acquired the rights to our outstanding orderbook for undelivered aircraft. For further discussion on the Merger see our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2026.

The following table details the regional concentration of our flight equipment subject to operating leases:

March 31, 2026

December 31, 2025

Region

% of Net Book Value

% of Net Book Value

Europe

39.2

%

39.1

%

Asia Pacific

36.9

%

36.5

%

Central America, South America, and Mexico

10.5

%

10.7

%

The Middle East and Africa

7.1

%

7.8

%

U.S. and Canada

6.3

%

5.9

%

Total

100.0

%

100.0

%

The following table details the composition of our owned fleet by aircraft type:

March 31, 2026

December 31, 2025

Aircraft type

Number of

Aircraft

% of Total

Number of

Aircraft

% of Total

Airbus A220-100

9

1.8

%

8

1.6

%

Airbus A220-300

34

6.9

%

33

6.7

%

Airbus A320-200

16

3.2

%

17

3.5

%

Airbus A320-200neo

20

4.0

%

23

4.7

%

Airbus A321-200

17

3.4

%

17

3.5

%

Airbus A321-200neo

112

22.6

%

109

22.2

%

Airbus A330-200(1)

13

2.6

%

13

2.7

%

Airbus A330-300

5

1.0

%

5

1.0

%

Airbus A330-900neo

28

5.6

%

28

5.7

%

Airbus A350-900

17

3.4

%

17

3.5

%

Airbus A350-1000

8

1.6

%

8

1.6

%

Boeing 737-800

37

7.5

%

38

7.8

%

Boeing 737-8 MAX

76

15.3

%

71

14.5

%

Boeing 737-9 MAX

35

7.1

%

35

7.1

%

Boeing 777-200ER

1

0.2

%

1

0.2

%

Boeing 777-300ER

23

4.6

%

23

4.7

%

Boeing 787-9

26

5.2

%

26

5.3

%

Boeing 787-10

18

3.7

%

17

3.5

%

Embraer E190

1

0.3

%

1

0.2

%

Total(2)

496

100.0

%

490

100.0

%

Debt Financing Activities

Our total debt financing, net of discounts and issuance costs, was $20.8 billion, $19.8 billion and $19.7 billion as of April 30, 2026, March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively. As of April 30, 2026, March 31, 2026, and December 31, 2025, 78.8%, 67.6% and 76.8% of our total debt financing was at a fixed rate, respectively, and 99.2% and 97.9% and 97.5% was unsecured. Our composite cost of funds was 4.33%, 4.29% and 4.15% as of April 30, 2026, March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively. We ended the quarter with total liquidity of $5.4 billion.

As of the end of the periods presented, our debt portfolio was comprised of the following components (dollars in millions, except percentages):

April 30, 2026

March 31, 2026

December 31, 2025

Unsecured

Senior unsecured securities

$

16,417

$

12,390

$

13,861

Term financings

4,244

3,607

3,847

Commercial paper

—

1,046

1,361

Revolving credit facility

—

2,470

—

Other revolving credit facilities

—

—

300

Total unsecured debt financing

20,661

19,513

19,369

Secured

Term financings

—

255

318

Export credit financing

169

171

175

Total secured debt financing

169

426

493

Total debt financing

20,830

19,939

19,862

Less: Debt discounts and issuance costs

(49

)

(120

)

(132

)

Debt financing, net of discounts and issuance costs

$

20,781

$

19,819

$

19,730

Selected interest rates and ratios:

Composite interest rate(1)

4.33

%

4.29

%

4.15

%

Composite interest rate on fixed-rate debt(1)

4.18

%

4.02

%

3.91

%

Percentage of total debt at a fixed-rate

78.81

%

67.57

%

76.85

%

Conference Call

In connection with this earnings release, Sumisho Air Lease will host a conference call on May 7, 2026 at 4:30 PM Eastern Time to discuss the Company's financial results for the first quarter of 2026.

Investors can participate in the conference call by dialing 1 (800) 715-9871 domestic or 1 (646) 307-1963 international. The passcode for the call is 5685809.

The conference call will also be broadcast live through a link on the Investors page of the Sumisho Air Lease website at www.sumisho.aero. Materials presented during the conference call will also be posted on the Sumisho Air Lease website. Please visit the website at least 15 minutes prior to the call to register, download and install any necessary audio software. A transcript of the conference call will be available on the Investors page of the Sumisho Air Lease website for a period of 12 months following the conference call.

About Sumisho Air Lease

Sumisho Air Lease Corporation is a leading global aircraft leasing company acquired by Sumitomo Corporation, SMBC Aviation Capital, and investment vehicles affiliated with Apollo and Brookfield in April 2026. The company is principally engaged in leasing liquid and new technology aircraft to airlines throughout the world. Sumisho Air Lease routinely posts information that may be important to investors in the “Investors” section of its website at www.sumisho.aero. Investors and potential investors are encouraged to consult Sumisho Air Lease’s website regularly for important information. The information contained on, or that may be accessed through, Sumisho Air Lease’s website is not incorporated by reference into, and is not a part of, this press release.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains statements that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Those statements appear in a number of places in this press release and include statements regarding, among other matters, the state of the airline industry, our ability to access the capital and debt markets, our aircraft sales pipeline and expectations, changes in inflation and interest rates and other macroeconomic conditions and other factors affecting our financial condition or results of operations. Words such as “can,” “could,” “may,” “predicts,” “potential,” “will,” “projects,” “continuing,” “ongoing,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” “estimates” and “should,” and variations of these words and similar expressions, are used in many cases to identify these forward-looking statements. Any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or industry results to vary materially from our future results, performance or achievements, or those of our industry, expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others:

our inability to obtain additional capital on favorable terms, or at all, to service our debt obligations and refinance maturing debt obligations; increases in our cost of borrowing, decreases in our credit ratings or changes in interest rates; our inability to generate sufficient returns on our aircraft investments through strategic aircraft acquisitions and profitable leasing; obsolescence of, or changes in overall demand for, our aircraft; changes in the value of, and lease rates for, our aircraft, including as a result of aircraft oversupply, manufacturer production levels, our lessees’ failure to maintain our aircraft, inflation, and other factors outside of our control; impaired financial condition and liquidity of our lessees, including due to lessee defaults and reorganizations, bankruptcies or similar proceedings; potential conflicts of interest with SMBC AC, as servicer of the majority of our aircraft; increased competition from other aircraft lessors; the failure by our lessees to adequately insure our aircraft or fulfill their contractual indemnity obligations to us, or the failure of such insurers to fulfill their contractual obligations; increased tariffs and other restrictions on trade; changes in the regulatory environment, including changes in tax laws and environmental regulations; other events affecting our business or the business of our lessees and aircraft manufacturers or their suppliers that are beyond our or their control, such as the threat or realization of epidemic diseases, natural disasters, terrorist attacks, war or armed hostilities between countries or non-state actors; and any additional factors discussed under “Part II — Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2026, and other Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) filings, including future SEC filings. All forward-looking statements are necessarily only estimates of future results, and there can be no assurance that actual results will not differ materially from expectations. You are therefore cautioned not to place undue reliance on such statements. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made, and we do not intend and undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking information to reflect actual results or events or circumstances after the date on which the statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

Sumisho Air Lease Corporation and Subsidiaries

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands, except share and par value amounts)

  March 31, 2026

December 31, 2025

(in thousands, except share and par value amounts)

Assets

Cash and cash equivalents

$

554,062

$

466,410

Restricted cash

502

3,540

Flight equipment subject to operating leases

35,732,476

35,880,458

Less accumulated depreciation

(6,857,633

)

(6,826,828

)

28,874,843

29,053,630

Net investment in sales-type leases

462,797

460,806

Deposits on flight equipment purchases

1,081,857

1,052,141

Flight equipment held for sale

940,330

529,016

Other assets

1,253,889

1,318,150

Total assets

$

33,168,280

$

32,883,693

Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity

Accrued interest and other payables

$

1,063,515

$

1,012,345

Debt financing, net of discounts and issuance costs

19,819,195

19,730,129

Security deposits on flight equipment leases

618,667

622,556

Maintenance reserves on flight equipment leases

1,542,339

1,477,046

Rentals received in advance

127,109

143,631

Deferred tax liability

1,448,357

1,425,230

Total liabilities

$

24,619,182

$

24,410,937

Stockholders’ Equity

Preferred Stock, $0.01 par value; 50,000,000 shares authorized; 900,000 (aggregate liquidation preference of $900,000) shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively

9

9

Class A common stock, $0.01 par value; 500,000,000 shares authorized; 112,415,671 and 112,035,408 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively

1,124

1,120

Class B Non-Voting common stock, $0.01 par value; 10,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued or outstanding

—

—

Paid-in capital

3,372,554

3,383,414

Retained earnings

5,183,013

5,092,929

Accumulated other comprehensive (loss)

(7,602

)

(4,716

)

Total stockholders’ equity

$

8,549,098

$

8,472,756

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

$

33,168,280

$

32,883,693

  Sumisho Air Lease Corporation and Subsidiaries

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(In thousands, except share and per share amounts)

  Three Months Ended

March 31,

2026

2025

(unaudited)

Revenues and other income

Rental of flight equipment revenue

Lease rentals

$

666,675

$

637,233

Maintenance rentals and other receipts

7,241

8,137

Total rental of flight equipment revenue

673,916

645,370

Gain on aircraft sales and trading and other income

65,307

92,912

Total revenues and other income

739,223

738,282

Expenses

Interest

201,844

208,574

Amortization of debt discounts and issuance costs

12,408

13,995

Interest expense

214,252

222,569

Depreciation of flight equipment

309,783

299,019

Recoveries of Russian fleet write-off

—

(331,938

)

Selling, general and administrative

60,191

59,348

Stock-based compensation expense

5,096

17,616

Total expenses

589,322

266,614

Income before taxes

149,901

471,668

Income tax expense

(24,005

)

(95,836

)

Net income

$

125,896

$

375,832

Preferred stock dividends

(11,081

)

(11,081

)

Net income attributable to common stockholders

$

114,815

$

364,751

Earnings per share of common stock:

Basic

$

1.03

$

3.27

Diluted

$

1.02

$

3.26

Weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding

Basic

111,936,166

111,549,903

Diluted

112,484,656

112,030,382

Other financial data

Pre-tax margin

20.3

%

63.9

%

Adjusted net income before income taxes(1)

$

165,412

$

169,490

Adjusted diluted earnings per share before income taxes(1)

$

1.47

$

1.51

Adjusted pre-tax margin(1)

22.4

%

23.0

%

The following table shows the reconciliation of the numerator for adjusted pre-tax margin (in thousands, except percentages):

Three Months Ended

March 31,

2026

2025

(unaudited)

Reconciliation of the numerator for adjusted pre-tax margin (net income attributable to common stockholders to adjusted net income before income taxes):

Net income attributable to common stockholders

$

114,815

$

364,751

Amortization of debt discounts and issuance costs

12,408

13,995

Recoveries of Russian fleet write-off

—

(331,938

)

Stock-based compensation expense

5,096

17,616

Retirement compensation expense

—

9,230

Merger related costs

9,088

—

Income tax expense

24,005

95,836

Adjusted net income before income taxes

$

165,412

$

169,490

Denominator for adjusted pre-tax margin:

Total revenues

$

739,223

$

738,282

Adjusted pre-tax margin(a)

22.4

%

23.0

%

The following table shows the reconciliation of the numerator for adjusted diluted earnings per share before income taxes (in thousands, except share and per share amounts):

  Three Months Ended

March 31,

2026

2025

  (unaudited)

Reconciliation of the numerator for adjusted diluted earnings per share (net income attributable to common stockholders to adjusted net income before income taxes):

  Net income attributable to common stockholders

  $

114,815

$

364,751

Amortization of debt discounts and issuance costs

  12,408

13,995

Recoveries of Russian fleet write-off

  —

(331,938

)

Stock-based compensation expense

  5,096

17,616

Retirement compensation expense

  —

9,230

Merger related costs

  9,088

—

Income tax expense

  24,005

95,836

Adjusted net income before income taxes

  $

165,412

$

169,490

  Denominator for adjusted diluted earnings per share:

  Weighted-average diluted common shares outstanding

  112,484,656

112,030,382

Adjusted diluted earnings per share before income taxes(b)

  $

1.47

$

1.51

  Sumisho Air Lease Corporation and Subsidiaries CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In thousands)

  Three Months Ended

March 31,

2026

2025

(unaudited)

Operating Activities

Net income

$

125,896

$

375,832

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

Depreciation of flight equipment

309,783

299,019

Recoveries of Russian fleet write-off

—

(331,938

)

Stock-based compensation expense

5,096

17,616

Deferred taxes

23,912

95,322

Amortization of prepaid lease costs

21,049

22,704

Amortization of discounts and debt issuance costs

12,408

13,995

Foreign currency remeasurement (gain)/loss on sales-type leases

3,058

(5,764

)

Gain on aircraft sales, trading and other activity

(53,780

)

(68,838

)

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

Other assets

38,434

13,581

Accrued interest and other payables

34,003

(34,234

)

Rentals received in advance

(16,522

)

(8,949

)

Net cash provided by operating activities

503,337

388,346

Investing Activities

Acquisition of flight equipment

(572,689

)

(585,725

)

Payments for deposits on flight equipment purchases

(189,766

)

(179,774

)

Proceeds from aircraft sales, trading and other activity

248,586

407,624

Proceeds from settlement of insurance claims

—

328,546

Acquisition of aircraft furnishings, equipment and other assets

(58,314

)

(72,871

)

Net cash used in investing activities

(572,183

)

(102,200

)

Financing Activities

Cash dividends paid on Class A common stock

(24,588

)

(24,503

)

Cash dividends paid on preferred stock

(11,081

)

(11,081

)

Tax withholdings on stock-based compensation

(15,952

)

(12,271

)

Net change in unsecured revolving facilities

2,170,000

30,000

Net change in commercial paper balance

(315,100

)

888,500

Proceeds from debt financings

100,000

199,950

Payments in reduction of debt financings

(1,857,406

)

(1,477,864

)

Debt issuance costs

(47

)

(1,385

)

Security deposits and maintenance reserve receipts

120,734

114,436

Security deposits and maintenance reserve disbursements

(13,100

)

(7,419

)

Net cash provided/(used in) by financing activities

153,460

(301,637

)

Net increase/(decrease) in cash

84,614

(15,491

)

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period

469,950

476,104

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period

$

554,564

$

460,613

Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information

Cash paid during the period for interest, including capitalized interest of $11,277 and $7,860 at March 31, 2026 and 2025, respectively

$

217,861

$

237,890

Cash paid for income taxes

$

2,143

$

38

Supplemental Disclosure of Noncash Activities

Buyer furnished equipment, capitalized interest and deposits on flight equipment purchases applied to acquisition of flight equipment and other assets

$

197,492

$

214,047

Flight equipment subject to operating leases reclassified to flight equipment held for sale

$

628,925

$

60,572

Transfer of flight equipment to investment in sales-type lease

$

21,674

$

33,778

Cash dividends declared on Class A common stock, not yet paid

$

24,731

$

24,587

Whether it's through stocks, bonds, ETFs, or other types of securities, all investors love seeing their portfolios score big returns. However, 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.

Based in Dover, Chesapeake Utilities (CPK - Free Report) is in the Utilities sector, and so far this year, shares have seen a price change of 4.54%. The energy and utility company is currently shelling out a dividend of $0.69 per share, with a dividend yield of 2.1%. This compares to the Utility - Gas Distribution industry's yield of 2.74% and the S&P 500's yield of 1.47%.

Looking at dividend growth, the company's current annualized dividend of $2.74 is up 1.7% from last year. Over the last 5 years, Chesapeake Utilities has increased its dividend 5 times on a year-over-year basis for an average annual increase of 9.90%. 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. Chesapeake Utilities's current payout ratio is 46%, meaning it paid out 46% of its trailing 12-month EPS as dividend.

Looking at this fiscal year, CPK expects solid earnings growth. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 is $6.51 per share, with earnings expected to increase 8.32% from the year ago period.

Investors like dividends for many reasons; they greatly improve stock investing profits, decrease overall portfolio risk, and carry tax advantages, among others. However, not all companies offer a quarterly payout.

For instance, it's a rare occurrence when a tech start-up or big growth business offers its shareholders a dividend. It's more common to see larger companies with more established profits give out dividends. 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 CPK is not only an attractive dividend play, but is also a compelling investment opportunity with a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy).

, /PRNewswire/ -- Chesapeake Utilities Corporation (NYSE: CPK) today announced two leadership appointments that reinforce the Company's commitment to operational excellence and long-term growth. Effective April 1, senior vice president and chief accounting officer Michael Galtman will assume the role of chief transformation officer to oversee the Company's enterprise resource plan (ERP) implementation in addition to managing financial planning, corporate development, tax and treasury operations.

Michael Galtman, Chesapeake Utilities Corporation Chief Transformation Officer (PRNewsfoto/Chesapeake Utilities Corporation)

Melissa Barnes, Chesapeake Utilities Chief Accounting Officer (PRNewsfoto/Chesapeake Utilities Corporation) In conjunction with this transition, Melissa Barnes, who joined the Company on March 30, 2026, has been appointed vice president and chief accounting officer, and will be responsible for the Company's accounting and financial reporting functions.

"These appointments reflect our focus on transformative growth and our long-term succession planning efforts. Mike's deep understanding of our business and strategic financial expertise will be key to the implementation of technology systems that will support efficient and affordable operations, while Melissa's experience will ensure continued strength in financial controls, risk management and reporting," said Jeff Sylvester, senior vice president and incoming chief financial officer. "I look forward to working closely with both leaders as I step into my new role and execute on our long-term growth strategy."

Galtman brings more than two decades of financial leadership across multiple publicly traded, regulated environments within the energy industry. Since joining Chesapeake Utilities in 2019, he has guided the Company through complex accounting, regulatory and governance matters, including multiple corporate transactions such as the Florida City Gas acquisition in late 2023. Prior to Chesapeake Utilities, Galtman served as chief accounting officer and vice president at Sunoco Logistics and MBNA, where he integrated nearly $3 billion in acquisitions, led an SAP implementation and managed financial reporting. Galtman began his career in public accounting; he holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Rutgers University and is a Certified Public Accountant.

Barnes is an accomplished accounting and finance leader with more than 20 years of experience in technical accounting, external reporting, largescale finance transformations‑ and internal controls. She most recently served as assistant controller at a global, publicly traded company, where she led accounting operations, including financial reporting, and provided oversight of Audit Committee communications. In prior roles, Barnes gained deep expertise in partnering with the business to execute complex transactions. Barnes holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from West Chester University of Pennsylvania and has completed executive education at the Yale School of Management. Barnes is a certified public accountant and a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

Chesapeake Utilities Corporation
Chesapeake Utilities Corporation is a diversified energy delivery company, listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE:CPK). Chesapeake Utilities Corporation offers sustainable energy solutions through its natural gas transmission and distribution, electricity generation and distribution, propane gas distribution, mobile compressed natural gas utility services and solutions and other businesses. For more information, visit www.chpk.com.

For more information, contact:

Media
Alexander Nye
Director, Strategic Communications
727.754.0136
[email protected]

Investors
Lucia M. Dempsey
Head of Investor Relations
347.804.9067
[email protected]  

SOURCE Chesapeake Utilities Corporation

Posted by Defense World Staff on Apr 6th, 2026

Phocas Financial Corp. purchased a new stake in Chesapeake Utilities Corporation (NYSE:CPK – Free Report) in the fourth quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund purchased 26,559 shares of the utilities provider’s stock, valued at approximately $3,314,000. Phocas Financial Corp. owned 0.11% of Chesapeake Utilities as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of CPK. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC increased its holdings in Chesapeake Utilities by 94.7% during the 2nd quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 222 shares of the utilities provider’s stock worth $27,000 after purchasing an additional 108 shares during the period. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Chesapeake Utilities by 292.9% in the 1st quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. now owns 220 shares of the utilities provider’s stock worth $28,000 after buying an additional 164 shares during the period. CIBC Private Wealth Group LLC grew its position in shares of Chesapeake Utilities by 66.1% during the 3rd quarter. CIBC Private Wealth Group LLC now owns 274 shares of the utilities provider’s stock worth $37,000 after buying an additional 109 shares in the last quarter. Hantz Financial Services Inc. grew its position in shares of Chesapeake Utilities by 77.4% during the 3rd quarter. Hantz Financial Services Inc. now owns 298 shares of the utilities provider’s stock worth $40,000 after buying an additional 130 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Johnson Financial Group Inc. purchased a new position in shares of Chesapeake Utilities during the third quarter valued at $62,000. Institutional investors own 83.11% of the company’s stock.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several analysts recently weighed in on CPK shares. Weiss Ratings restated a “hold (c+)” rating on shares of Chesapeake Utilities in a report on Friday, March 27th. Wall Street Zen raised shares of Chesapeake Utilities from a “sell” rating to a “hold” rating in a research report on Saturday, March 14th. Finally, Barclays restated a “reduce” rating and issued a $140.00 price target (down from $141.00) on shares of Chesapeake Utilities in a report on Tuesday, February 24th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, two have given a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of “Hold” and a consensus price target of $140.00.

Read Our Latest Research Report on CPK

Chesapeake Utilities Stock Performance Shares of CPK opened at $129.34 on Monday. The company has a current ratio of 0.45, a quick ratio of 0.40 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.83. The firm has a market cap of $3.10 billion, a PE ratio of 21.63 and a beta of 0.77. Chesapeake Utilities Corporation has a 12 month low of $115.24 and a 12 month high of $140.59. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $130.32 and a 200-day moving average price of $130.46.

Chesapeake Utilities (NYSE:CPK – Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, February 25th. The utilities provider reported $1.94 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $2.16 by ($0.22). Chesapeake Utilities had a return on equity of 9.31% and a net margin of 15.09%.The business had revenue of $258.90 million for the quarter, compared to analysts’ expectations of $208.59 million. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $1.63 earnings per share. The firm’s quarterly revenue was up 20.4% compared to the same quarter last year. Chesapeake Utilities has set its FY 2028 guidance at 7.750-8.000 EPS. Equities research analysts predict that Chesapeake Utilities Corporation will post 5.39 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Chesapeake Utilities Announces Dividend The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, April 6th. Stockholders of record on Monday, March 16th will be issued a dividend of $0.685 per share. The ex-dividend date is Monday, March 16th. This represents a $2.74 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.1%. Chesapeake Utilities’s dividend payout ratio is 45.82%.

About Chesapeake Utilities (Free Report)

Chesapeake Utilities Corporation (NYSE: CPK) is a diversified energy services holding company headquartered in Dover, Delaware. Through its operating subsidiaries, the company engages in natural gas distribution, transmission and storage; propane distribution; wholesale propane supply; and contract compression and natural gas liquids processing. Its core mission is to provide safe, reliable and cost-effective energy solutions to residential, commercial and industrial customers across multiple U.S.

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