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Xcel Energy Inc (XEL)
NASDAQ:XEL

Xcel Energy (XEL) AI Stock Analysis

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XE

Xcel Energy

(NASDAQ:XEL)

69Neutral
Xcel Energy presents a balanced risk-reward profile with stable financial performance, moderate technical momentum, and a slightly high valuation offset by a solid dividend yield. Strategic investments and regulatory achievements from the earnings call indicate growth potential, though challenges like declining earnings and increased liabilities might pose risks. Overall, the stock is positioned moderately well in the regulated electric industry, with an emphasis on managing capital expenditures and leveraging operational efficiencies.
Positive Factors
De-risking Events
Resolution of the Marshall Fire litigation is seen as a major de-risking event, which could positively affect the stock.
Growth Potential
The company is expected to have the highest rate base growth among large-cap utilities, which signals a strong growth potential.
Renewable Energy Opportunities
Xcel's footprint gives it access to one of the most renewables-rich regions in the U.S., providing it with cost-effective de-carbonization opportunities.
Negative Factors
Cash Flow Concerns
The reduction in cash flow in the interim could require incremental equity issuance or other mitigation measures to preserve credit metrics.
Regulatory Caution
Caution around recent regulatory developments is reflected in the rating.
Wildfire Litigation Risks
Wildfires are expected to be a key topic for investors on the call, indicating ongoing concern about litigation and potential financial impacts.

Xcel Energy (XEL) vs. S&P 500 (SPY)

Xcel Energy Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionXcel Energy Inc., through its subsidiaries, generates, purchases, transmits, distributes, and sells electricity. It operates through Regulated Electric Utility, Regulated Natural Gas Utility, and All Other segments. The company generates electricity through coal, nuclear, natural gas, hydroelectric, solar, biomass, oil, wood/refuse, and wind energy sources. It also purchases, transports, distributes, and sells natural gas to retail customers, as well as transports customer-owned natural gas. In addition, the company develops and leases natural gas pipelines, and storage and compression facilities; and invests in rental housing projects, as well as procures equipment for the construction of renewable generation facilities. It serves residential, commercial, and industrial customers in the portions of Colorado, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas, and Wisconsin. The company sells electricity to approximately 3.7 million customers; and natural gas to approximately 2.1 million customers. Xcel Energy Inc. was incorporated in 1909 and is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
How the Company Makes MoneyXcel Energy makes money primarily through its regulated utility operations, which include the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity and natural gas. The company's revenue model is largely based on customer rates approved by state public utility commissions, which allow Xcel Energy to recover costs and earn a regulated return on its investments in infrastructure and service improvements. Key revenue streams include electricity sales to residential, commercial, and industrial customers, as well as natural gas sales and transportation services. Xcel Energy's earnings are also influenced by its ongoing investments in renewable energy projects, such as wind and solar farms, which are supported by government incentives and long-term power purchase agreements. These projects not only contribute to revenue but also help the company meet regulatory requirements for renewable energy usage. Additionally, Xcel Energy may benefit from strategic partnerships and collaborations that enhance its capacity to deliver innovative energy solutions.

Xcel Energy Financial Statement Overview

Summary
Xcel Energy shows stable financial health typical for the regulated electric sector. Despite recent revenue declines, operational efficiency remains strong with solid margins. The balance sheet indicates manageable leverage and effective equity use. However, high capital expenditures result in negative free cash flow, highlighting a need for improved cash flow management.
Income Statement
75
Positive
Xcel Energy demonstrates stable profitability with a consistent gross profit margin and net profit margin over the years. The TTM data shows a gross profit margin of 50.19% and a net profit margin of 14.08%. Revenue growth is slightly negative in recent periods, with a decline of 2.17% from 2022 to 2023 and a further decline of 5.60% from 2023 to 2024. However, EBIT and EBITDA margins remain strong at 17.49% and 40.77% in the TTM, indicating efficient operational performance.
Balance Sheet
70
Positive
The balance sheet reveals a moderately leveraged position with a TTM debt-to-equity ratio of 1.60, which is typical for the regulated electric industry. The return on equity (ROE) is healthy at 9.75%, reflecting effective use of shareholder funds. The equity ratio stands at 27.22%, indicating a solid capital structure despite the significant debt levels.
Cash Flow
60
Neutral
Xcel Energy's cash flow shows challenges with negative free cash flow in the TTM at -$317 million, primarily due to high capital expenditures. However, the operating cash flow to net income ratio is strong at 2.39, demonstrating robust cash generation from operations. The free cash flow to net income ratio is negative, highlighting the impact of capital investment on cash flow.
Breakdown
TTMDec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021Dec 2020
Income StatementTotal Revenue
13.71B13.44B14.21B15.31B13.43B11.53B
Gross Profit
4.66B6.15B5.93B5.86B5.26B4.96B
EBIT
2.40B2.39B2.48B2.43B2.20B2.12B
EBITDA
5.59B5.59B5.20B5.01B4.46B4.19B
Net Income Common Stockholders
1.93B1.94B1.77B1.74B1.60B1.47B
Balance SheetCash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments
1.12B179.00M129.00M111.00M166.00M129.00M
Total Assets
72.75B70.03B64.08B61.19B57.85B53.96B
Total Debt
32.33B30.21B27.51B26.03B24.74B22.21B
Net Debt
31.20B30.03B27.39B25.92B24.57B22.08B
Total Liabilities
52.95B50.51B46.46B44.51B42.24B39.38B
Stockholders Equity
19.80B19.52B17.62B16.68B15.61B14.57B
Cash FlowFree Cash Flow
-317.00M-2.72B-527.00M-706.00M-2.06B-2.52B
Operating Cash Flow
4.62B4.64B5.33B3.93B2.19B2.85B
Investing Cash Flow
-7.86B-7.43B-5.93B-4.65B-4.29B-4.74B
Financing Cash Flow
3.87B2.84B617.00M666.00M2.13B1.77B

Xcel Energy Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Positive
Last Price72.38
Price Trends
50DMA
69.68
Positive
100DMA
68.32
Positive
200DMA
65.88
Positive
Market Momentum
MACD
0.22
Negative
RSI
59.43
Neutral
STOCH
74.19
Neutral
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For XEL, the sentiment is Positive. The current price of 72.38 is above the 20-day moving average (MA) of 70.30, above the 50-day MA of 69.68, and above the 200-day MA of 65.88, indicating a bullish trend. The MACD of 0.22 indicates Negative momentum. The RSI at 59.43 is Neutral, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 74.19 is Neutral, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Positive sentiment for XEL.

Xcel Energy Risk Analysis

Xcel Energy disclosed 33 risk factors in its most recent earnings report. Xcel Energy reported the most risks in the “Production” category.
Finance & Corporate - Financial and accounting risks. Risks related to the execution of corporate activity and strategy
Latest Risks Added 0 New Risks

Xcel Energy Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (63)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
WEWEC
77
Outperform
$33.98B20.7812.96%3.19%4.42%11.98%
EXEXC
74
Outperform
$44.51B16.3610.10%3.49%6.71%16.09%
PCPCG
74
Outperform
$39.27B16.438.55%0.39%1.91%-4.40%
XEXEL
69
Neutral
$41.75B21.3410.26%3.06%-0.44%2.14%
PEPEG
65
Neutral
$39.57B21.6811.40%3.06%11.24%1.15%
63
Neutral
$8.53B10.184.66%4.38%3.77%-12.97%
EDED
62
Neutral
$37.58B19.258.33%3.20%8.52%3.91%
* Utilities Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
XEL
Xcel Energy
72.38
18.26
33.74%
ED
Consolidated Edison
104.29
11.03
11.83%
EXC
Exelon
44.09
7.08
19.13%
PCG
PG&E
17.87
-0.71
-3.82%
PEG
Public Service Enterprise
79.29
7.21
10.00%
WEC
WEC Energy Group
106.47
24.71
30.22%

Xcel Energy Earnings Call Summary

Earnings Call Date:Apr 24, 2025
(Q1-2025)
|
% Change Since: 1.16%|
Next Earnings Date:Jul 24, 2025
Earnings Call Sentiment Neutral
The earnings call highlighted Xcel Energy's robust infrastructure investments and strong regulatory engagements, positioning it well for future growth. However, declines in earnings, increased operating expenses, and rising liability estimates for wildfire claims were significant concerns. The company remains confident in its ability to manage these challenges, supported by positive sales growth and ongoing data center expansion.
Q1-2025 Updates
Positive Updates
Record Investment in Energy Infrastructure
Xcel Energy invested $2.3 billion in resilient and reliable energy infrastructure for the first quarter of 2025, demonstrating a commitment to delivering energy efficiently.
Strong Regulatory Outcomes
Xcel Energy reached constructive settlements on wildfire mitigation and system resiliency plans in Colorado and Texas, with anticipated commission decisions by Q3 2025.
Positive Sales Growth
Weather and leap year adjusted electric sales increased by 2% in Q1 2025, with expectations of a 3% increase in full-year weather-adjusted electric sales.
Data Center Expansion
Xcel Energy continues to expand its data center footprint with significant interest across multiple states, including Minnesota, Colorado, and Wisconsin, and robust pipeline management.
Negative Updates
Earnings Decline
Earnings decreased to $0.84 per share in Q1 2025 from $0.88 per share in the same quarter of 2024, impacted by higher O&M expenses, depreciation, and interest.
Wildfire Liability Increase
The estimated liability related to Smokehouse Creek increased to $290 million, although it remains under the $500 million insurance coverage.
Higher Operating Expenses
O&M expenses increased by $81 million to $686 million in Q1 2025, driven by nuclear outage amortization, insurance premiums, and benefit costs.
Company Guidance
During Xcel Energy's first quarter 2025 earnings call, the company reported earnings of $0.84 per share and confirmed its ability to meet its earnings guidance for the 21st consecutive year, projecting annual earnings per share between $3.75 and $3.85. The call highlighted a $2.3 billion investment in energy infrastructure, aiming to deliver between 15,000 and 29,000 megawatts of new generation by 2031. Xcel Energy emphasized ongoing tariff mitigation efforts, with an estimated 2% to 3% exposure on its $45 billion capital plan for 2025-2029. The company reaffirmed its commitment to clean energy, reporting that since 2018, customers have saved over $5 billion in avoided fuel costs and production tax credits. Additionally, settlements on wildfire mitigation plans in Colorado and Texas were discussed, involving $1.9 billion and $500 million, respectively. Despite a slight dip in earnings compared to the previous year, Xcel Energy remains focused on growth and regulatory engagement to support its long-term strategic objectives.

Xcel Energy Corporate Events

Private Placements and FinancingBusiness Operations and Strategy
Xcel Energy Enhances Financial Flexibility with New Credit Agreements
Positive
May 7, 2025

On May 6, 2025, Xcel Energy Inc. and its subsidiaries entered into amended and restated credit agreements with several financial institutions, enhancing their financial flexibility with unsecured credit facilities totaling several billion dollars. These agreements, maturing in December 2029, allow for increased borrowing under certain conditions and are intended for general corporate purposes, potentially impacting the company’s operational capabilities and market positioning.

Spark’s Take on XEL Stock

According to Spark, TipRanks’ AI Analyst, XEL is a Neutral.

Xcel Energy demonstrates a stable financial position with strong operational efficiency and profitability, although challenged by recent revenue declines and high capital expenditures. The technical indicators show moderate positive momentum, supporting potential stock appreciation. Valuation metrics suggest the stock might be slightly overvalued, but the dividend yield enhances investor appeal. The earnings call underscores strategic investments and regulatory achievements, balancing concerns over declining earnings and increased liabilities. Overall, Xcel Energy presents a balanced risk-reward profile in the regulated electric industry.

To see Spark’s full report on XEL stock, click here.

Executive/Board Changes
Xcel Energy Announces Leadership Transition in 2025
Neutral
Mar 3, 2025

On February 25, 2025, Xcel Energy announced the retirement of Timothy O’Connor, Executive Vice President, Chief Operations Officer, effective May 1, 2025. In his place, Michael Lamb will take over as Executive Vice President, Chief Delivery Officer, and Scott Sharp will assume the role of Executive Vice President, Chief Generation Officer. This leadership transition reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to operational excellence and continuity, with both Lamb and Sharp having extensive experience within the company. O’Connor will remain with Xcel Energy to assist with the transition until August 21, 2025.

Glossary
OutperformA stock rated as "Outperform" is expected to perform better than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests that the stock is likely to deliver higher returns compared to the average returns of other stocks in the same sector or market index. Investors might consider this stock a good buying opportunity.
NeutralA stock rated as "Neutral" is expected to perform in line with the overall market or a specific benchmark. This rating indicates that the stock is neither particularly attractive nor unattractive for investment. Investors may consider holding onto the stock, as it is not expected to either significantly outperform or underperform the market.
UnderperformA stock rated as "Underperform" is expected to perform worse than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests that the stock may deliver lower returns compared to the average returns of other stocks in the same sector or market index. Investors might consider selling the stock or avoiding it as an investment.

Disclaimer

This AI Analyst Stock Report is automatically generated by our AI systems using advanced algorithms and publicly available financial, technical, and market data. While the information provided aims to be accurate and insightful, it is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Any content created by an AI (Artificial Intelligence) system may contain inaccuracies and/or contain errors. Investing in stocks carries inherent risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results. This report does not account for your personal financial circumstances, objectives, or risk tolerance. Always conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The analysis and recommendations provided are based on historical and current data and may not fully reflect future market conditions or unexpected developments. Neither the creators of this report nor its affiliated entities guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. Use this report at your own discretion and risk.