Core Viewpoint - Duke Energy is positioned to potentially continue its earnings-beat streak in upcoming reports, supported by a positive earnings surprise history and favorable analyst estimates [1][5]. Earnings Performance - For the most recent quarter, Duke Energy reported earnings of $1.59 per share, missing the expected $1.76 per share by 10.69%. In the previous quarter, it exceeded the consensus estimate of $1.61 per share by reporting $1.66 per share, resulting in a surprise of 3.11% [2]. Earnings Estimates and Predictions - Recent estimates for Duke Energy have been increasing, with a positive Earnings ESP of +2.13%, indicating bullish sentiment among analysts regarding its near-term earnings potential [5][8]. - The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold) suggests a high likelihood of another earnings beat, with historical data showing that stocks with this combination beat consensus estimates nearly 70% of the time [6][8]. Earnings ESP Explanation - The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate, with the Most Accurate Estimate reflecting the latest analyst revisions, which may provide a more accurate prediction of earnings [7].

Core Viewpoint - Duke Energy Carolinas has requested a public review of its current rates from South Carolina regulators, seeking an overall annual revenue increase of $150.5 million, which equates to a 7.7% increase over current revenues [2]. Financial Impact - If the request is approved, typical residential customers using 1,000 kilowatt-hours per month will see their monthly electric bills rise by $10.38, from $136.82 to $147.19, effective March 1, 2026 [2]. - Commercial customers will experience an average increase of 5.4%, while industrial customers will see an average increase of around 5.2% [2]. Company Commitment - Duke Energy emphasizes its commitment to meeting customers' expectations regarding reliability, responsiveness, affordability, and value, while also supporting South Carolina's economic growth [2][4]. Infrastructure Investments - The company has made significant investments in grid improvements, which have enhanced storm response capabilities and reduced outages for customers [3][7]. - Recent upgrades include smart, self-healing technology that automatically restored over 35,000 customer outages and saved more than 153,000 hours of total outage time during Hurricane Helene [7]. Company Overview - Duke Energy Carolinas, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, operates with 20,800 megawatts of energy capacity, serving 2.9 million customers across a 24,000-square-mile area in North and South Carolina [5]. - Duke Energy, a Fortune 150 company, serves 8.6 million customers across multiple states and is focused on an ambitious energy transition, investing in electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation sources [6][8].

Core Viewpoint - A significant endorsement from Goldman Sachs has shifted institutional sentiment towards Duke Energy, indicating a potential investment opportunity in the utility sector [1][2]. Company Overview - Duke Energy has been upgraded from Neutral to Buy by Goldman Sachs, with a new price target of $132.00 per share, suggesting a positive outlook compared to its current trading price of $116.93 [2][3]. - The company is recognized for its blend of regulated operations and a clear growth strategy, which is seen as offering a superior risk-reward profile in a challenging market [4]. Growth Strategy - Duke Energy has a $145 billion capital investment program planned over the next decade, focusing on critical infrastructure and clean energy sources, which is expected to drive earnings growth [6]. - The company anticipates achieving 5% to 7% annual earnings growth through its investment strategy [7]. Financial Performance - In the first quarter of 2025, Duke reported an adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $1.76, exceeding analyst expectations and demonstrating the effectiveness of its growth strategy [8]. Shareholder Returns - Duke Energy offers a dividend yield of approximately 3.59% and has a long history of paying dividends for 99 consecutive years, with increases over the past 20 years, providing stability for investors [9][10]. Risk Management - The company has strengthened its balance sheet by selling its non-regulated Commercial Renewables business for $2.8 billion, allowing for growth funding with less reliance on new debt [11][12]. - Recent legislative developments in North Carolina provide Duke with greater operational flexibility, aiding in the management of its energy transition while ensuring reliability and affordability [13]. Market Position - Duke Energy is positioned as a defensive investment with a dual appeal of income and growth, making it attractive for investors seeking stability in a volatile market [15][16].

Core Insights - Duke Energy set a new summer peak electricity usage record of 35,269 megawatt-hours (MWh) on June 24, 2025, surpassing the previous record of 34,439 MWh from July 9, 2024 [3] - The company attributes this record to customer conservation efforts during peak demand periods amid a heat wave affecting North and South Carolina [2][7] - Duke Energy's all-time peak usage record is 37,260 MWh, achieved on January 23, 2025 [3] Energy Mix and Infrastructure - Duke Energy utilizes a diverse energy mix, including nuclear, natural gas, hydro, renewables, and coal, to meet increasing energy demands [4] - The company is investing in solar and energy storage, with plans for new natural gas plants over the next five years to support growth and economic development [4][12] Customer Engagement and Energy Efficiency - Over 521,000 customers participated in Duke Energy's demand response programs to help manage peak demand during the heat wave [7] - The company emphasizes the importance of energy efficiency year-round, providing tips for customers to save on their electric bills [5][10] Company Overview - Duke Energy is a Fortune 150 company serving 8.6 million customers across several states, with a total energy capacity of 55,100 megawatts [11] - The company is focused on an ambitious energy transition, investing in electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation sources [12]

Core Insights - Nuclear power plants are recognized for their high-capacity factor, providing a reliable source of baseload electricity compared to intermittent renewable sources [2] - The U.S. aims to increase nuclear energy capacity from 100 GW to 400 GW by 2050 through executive orders issued by President Trump [4] - The demand for clean electricity is rising due to factors like AI data centers, urbanization, and electric vehicles, making nuclear energy stocks attractive [5] Constellation Energy's Position - Constellation Energy operates the largest nuclear fleet in the U.S., generating nearly 90% carbon-free energy annually [6] - The company plans to invest $3 billion to $3.5 billion in capital expenditures through 2026, with 35% allocated for nuclear fuel [10][16] - Constellation Energy's return on equity (ROE) is 21.93%, indicating efficient capital use compared to Duke Energy's 9.88% [10][14] Duke Energy's Position - Duke Energy's nuclear operations provide reliable, low-carbon electricity, helping meet climate goals and federal regulations [8] - The company received approval to extend operations of its largest nuclear plant for an additional 20 years, supporting its clean energy strategy [8] - Duke Energy anticipates capital expenditures of $190-$200 billion over the next decade, with a significant portion for clean energy transition [17] Financial Performance Comparison - Constellation Energy's earnings per share (EPS) estimates for 2025 and 2026 increased by 0.75% and 3.78%, respectively, while Duke Energy's estimates remained flat or slightly decreased [10][12][14] - Constellation Energy's dividend yield is 0.49%, significantly lower than Duke Energy's 3.61% [18] Investment Outlook - Both Constellation Energy and Duke Energy have potential for growth in the energy sector, but Constellation Energy is favored for its better earnings growth and ROE [19][20]

Group 1 - The market is currently near an all-time high, indicating increased investor willingness to invest in risk assets [2] - There are significant risks on the horizon, suggesting a cautious approach despite the market's optimism [2] - The statement by Warren Buffett to "be fearful when others are greedy" is highlighted as a reminder for investors to remain vigilant [2] Group 2 - iREIT+HOYA Capital focuses on income-producing asset classes that provide sustainable portfolio income, diversification, and inflation hedging [1]

Core Viewpoint - Duke Energy is urging customers in the Carolinas to reduce energy use during peak demand hours to alleviate pressure on the power grid and minimize the risk of power outages [1][2]. Company Overview - Duke Energy is a Fortune 150 company based in Charlotte, N.C., serving 8.6 million electric customers across multiple states and owning 55,100 megawatts of energy capacity [2]. - The company also provides natural gas services to 1.7 million customers in several states [2]. Energy Transition Efforts - Duke Energy is focused on an ambitious energy transition, prioritizing customer reliability and value while investing in electric grid upgrades and cleaner energy sources, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables, and energy storage [3]. Customer Guidance - Customers are advised to raise their thermostat settings, postpone laundry, avoid using electric ranges and appliances during peak hours, consider outdoor grilling, and turn off unnecessary appliances to help reduce energy consumption [4].

Core Insights - Duke Energy is encouraging customers to manage their energy use as summer temperatures rise, emphasizing the importance of energy savings during heat waves [1][2]. Energy-Saving Programs and Tips - The company offers personalized usage alerts and various programs to help customers save energy and money, particularly during high-temperature periods [2]. - Customers can benefit from financial assistance programs and energy-saving tools, which are designed to help manage energy costs [8][4]. Company Overview - Duke Energy is a major energy holding company serving 8.6 million electric customers and 1.7 million natural gas customers across several states, with a total energy capacity of 55,100 megawatts [5]. - The company is focused on an ambitious energy transition, investing in electric grid upgrades and cleaner energy sources, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables, and energy storage [6]. Energy Efficiency Tips - Recommendations for energy savings include setting thermostats higher, using cooler water for laundry, running appliances during cooler hours, and utilizing ceiling fans effectively [9]. - Customers can receive a free home energy assessment and take advantage of rebates for energy-efficient equipment through the Smart $aver® program [9].

The study will explore the possibility of a sale of existing coal units Settlement with state's coal producers is aligned with Indiana Governor Mike Braun's executive orders on coalPLAINFIELD, Ind., June 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy Indiana and Reliable Energy Inc., which represents several of Indiana's major coal producers, have reached a settlement in Duke Energy Indiana's request pending before the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission for a proposed new natural gas plant at its Cayuga Generati ...

Core Viewpoint - Duke Energy Progress has requested a public review of its current rates from South Carolina regulators, seeking a revenue increase of $74.8 million, which equates to a 12.1% rise over existing revenues [2][4]. Rate Increase Details - If approved, typical residential customers using 1,000 kilowatt-hours per month will see their monthly electric bills rise by $21.66, from $144.85 to $166.51, effective February 1, 2026 [2]. - Commercial customers are expected to experience an average increase of 12.8%, while industrial customers will see an average increase of around 3.6% [2]. Company Background - Duke Energy Progress, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, operates with 13,800 megawatts of energy capacity, serving 1.8 million customers across a 28,000-square-mile area in North and South Carolina [5]. - Duke Energy, a Fortune 150 company, serves 8.6 million customers across multiple states and owns a total of 55,100 megawatts of energy capacity [6]. Recent Investments and Improvements - The company has made significant investments to strengthen the grid, improve storm readiness, and enhance customer service, which have contributed to reduced outages [7][9]. - The last regulatory review of rates occurred in 2022, and this request reflects ongoing efforts to meet future energy demands and improve operational excellence [7][8]. Technological Advancements - Smart, self-healing technology has been implemented, which helped restore over 10,000 customer outages during Hurricane Helene, saving more than 28,000 hours of total outage time [8]. Commitment to Energy Transition - Duke Energy is focused on an ambitious energy transition, investing in electric grid upgrades and cleaner energy sources, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables, and energy storage [9].