Essential Utilities (WTRG) Announces Steady Quarterly Dividend
Essential Utilities (WTRG) has declared a consistent quarterly dividend of $0.3426 per share, resulting in a forward yield of 3.48%, reinforcing its appeal as a reliable income investment. The company, a significant player in the regulated utilities sector, demonstrates strong profitability with expanding operating margins. However, investors should be aware of its high debt-to-equity ratio and low interest coverage, despite reasonable valuation metrics.
80 years of dividend checks: Essential Utilities declares next $0.3426 payout
Essential Utilities Inc. has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.3426 per share, payable on June 1, 2026, to shareholders of record on May 12, 2026. The company has a long history of dividend payments, having paid consecutive quarterly cash dividends for 80 years and increasing the dividend 35 times in the last 34 years. Essential Utilities operates as Aqua and Peoples brands, serving approximately 5.5 million people across nine states with water, wastewater, and natural gas services.
Essential Utilities Sets Date for 2025 Earnings Reveal
Essential Utilities, Inc. (NYSE: WTRG) announced it will release its full-year 2025 financial results after market close on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. The company's leadership, including CEO Chris Franklin and CFO Dan Schuller, will host a conference call for financial analysts on Thursday, February 26, to discuss the results. Essential Utilities, operating under the Aqua and Peoples brands, serves approximately 5.5 million people across nine states, and investors are keenly awaiting this report given current regulatory and infrastructure demands.
American Water and Essential Utilities shareholders back proposed merger
Shareholders of American Water Works Company, Inc. and Essential Utilities, Inc. have approved all proposals for their merger. This pivotal step means the companies will now seek remaining regulatory approvals, targeting a close by the end of the first quarter of 2027. The combined entity will retain the American Water name, with John Griffith as CEO and Chris Franklin as Executive Vice Chair, creating a $40 billion regulated platform.
American Water, Essential Utilities shareholders approve merger deal (AWK:NYSE)
Shareholders of American Water Works (AWK) and Essential Utilities (WTRG) have overwhelmingly approved the proposed merger deal between the two companies. Approximately 99% of American Water's shares voted in favor of the merger. This marks a significant step towards the completion of their previously announced agreement.
Essential Utilities and American Water Works shareholders approve merger proposals
Shareholders of Essential Utilities, Inc. (NYSE:WTRG) and American Water Works Company, Inc. have approved merger proposals related to their planned combination. This approval is based on preliminary voting results from meetings held recently, as detailed in an SEC filing. Despite this positive development, Essential Utilities recently received a downgrade from Barclays, citing concerns within the water utilities sector and setting a revised price target.
American Water Works and Essential Utilities shareholders approve merger proposals
Shareholders of American Water Works (NYSE:AWK) and Essential Utilities have approved proposals for their planned merger, originally signed on October 26, 2025. The merger is anticipated to close by the first quarter of 2027, pending regulatory approvals. American Water Works has also recently expanded its customer base through acquisitions and declared a quarterly dividend.
Essential Utilities and American Water Works Approve Merger Proposals
Essential Utilities, Inc. announced on February 10, 2026, that shareholders of both Essential Utilities and American Water Works have approved merger proposals. This merger is based on an agreement established on October 26, 2025. The final voting results are expected to be reported within four business days.
American Water shareholders approve merger with Essential Utilities
Shareholders of American Water Works Company, Inc. (AWK) and Essential Utilities, Inc. have approved proposals crucial for their planned merger. This approval, based on preliminary voting results, marks a significant step toward completing the transaction, which is expected to enhance the combined entity's scale and market position in the U.S. regulated utilities sector. Despite a "Sell" analyst rating for AWK and a "Neutral" assessment from TipRanks' AI Analyst, Spark, the merger is positioning the companies for stronger market standing.
Alps Advisors Inc. Purchases 57,689 Shares of Essential Utilities Inc. $WTRG
Alps Advisors Inc. significantly increased its stake in Essential Utilities (NYSE:WTRG) during the third quarter, acquiring an additional 57,689 shares, bringing its total holdings to 133,963 shares valued at approximately $5.345 million. Essential Utilities has also declared a quarterly dividend of $0.3426 per share, offering a 3.7% yield, with institutional investors collectively owning nearly 75% of the stock. Analyst sentiment for Essential Utilities is mixed, with an average rating of "Hold" and a target price of $43.29.
Essential Utilities Inc. $WTRG Shares Bought by ProShare Advisors LLC
ProShare Advisors LLC increased its stake in Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE:WTRG) by 16.4% in the third quarter, now holding 966,685 shares valued at $38.57 million. Essential Utilities also recently declared a quarterly dividend of $0.3426, resulting in an annualized dividend yield of 3.7%. Institutional investors own a significant portion of the company's stock, and analysts currently have a "Hold" consensus rating with a target price of $43.29.
Essential Utilities Inc. $WTRG Holdings Lowered by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans
Thrivent Financial for Lutherans reduced its stake in Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE:WTRG) by 27.6% in the third quarter of 2025. Despite this reduction, other large institutional investors significantly increased their holdings, and institutions collectively own 74.78% of the stock. Essential Utilities also declared a quarterly dividend of $0.3426, offering an annualized yield of approximately 3.7%.
Essential Utilities Inc. to Issue Quarterly Dividend of $0.34 (NYSE:WTRG)
Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE:WTRG) has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.3426 per share, payable on March 2nd to shareholders of record by February 9th. This represents an annualized yield of 3.7% and marks the 32nd consecutive year the company has increased its dividend. The dividend is well-covered by earnings, with an expected future payout ratio of around 64.3%.
Essential Utilities to Report 2025 Earnings on February 25, 2026
Essential Utilities (WTRG) is scheduled to release its full-year 2025 earnings after market close on February 25, 2026, with a conference call the following day to discuss financial performance in its water and natural gas sectors. Analysts have varied opinions on the stock, with an average 1-year price target of $42.50, despite recent downgrades by some firms due to concerns over merger proceedings and market conditions. The company, operating under the Aqua and Peoples brands, serves approximately 5.5 million people across nine states and is also undergoing a merger with American Water Works, prompting shareholder rights investigations.
Essential Utilities to Report Financial Results for Full Year 2025
Essential Utilities (NYSE: WTRG) is scheduled to release its financial results for the full year 2025 after the market closes on February 25, 2026. A conference call for financial analysts will follow on February 26, 2026, at 11 a.m. Eastern Time, which will also be webcast live on Essential.co. The call will be hosted by CEO Chris Franklin and CFO Dan Schuller.
Essential Utilities Inc. $WTRG is John G Ullman & Associates Inc.'s 10th Largest Position
John G Ullman & Associates Inc. significantly increased its stake in Essential Utilities Inc. (WTRG) by 74.8% in Q3, making it their 10th largest holding. Essential Utilities, a water and natural gas utility holding company, pays a quarterly dividend of $0.3426, offering a ~3.6% yield. Despite beating Q3 earnings estimates, analysts hold a mixed "Hold" rating with a consensus target price of $43.29.
Allianz Asset Management GmbH Cuts Position in Essential Utilities Inc. $WTRG
Allianz Asset Management GmbH reduced its stake in Essential Utilities Inc. by 7.0% in Q3, selling 115,586 shares and ending the quarter with 1,531,560 shares valued at approximately $61.1 million. Despite this reduction, other institutions like Norges Bank and Nordea increased their holdings, contributing to an overall institutional ownership of about 74.78%. Analysts maintain a "Hold" consensus rating with an average price target of $43.29 for Essential Utilities, which also recently announced a quarterly dividend of $0.3426.
Jones Financial Companies Lllp Purchases 61,895 Shares of Essential Utilities Inc. $WTRG
Jones Financial Companies Lllp significantly increased its stake in Essential Utilities Inc. (WTRG) by 16.5%, acquiring an additional 61,895 shares, bringing its total holdings to 437,824 shares valued at $17.10 million. Institutional investors now collectively own 74.78% of the company. Essential Utilities also declared a quarterly dividend of $0.3426, equating to a 3.6% annual yield, and reported strong Q3 earnings, surpassing estimates with $0.33 EPS and 9.6% year-over-year revenue growth.
Essential Utilities declares $0.3426 dividend as 80-year streak rolls on
Essential Utilities (NYSE: WTRG) has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.3426 per share, maintaining its 80-year streak of consecutive quarterly dividends. The dividend is payable on March 1, 2026, to shareholders of record as of February 1, 2026, and the ex-dividend date is January 31, 2026. This announcement highlights the company's long-standing commitment to returning value to its investors.
Essential Utilities Declares $0.3426 Dividend as 80-Year Streak Rolls On
Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE: WTRG) has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.3426 per share, continuing its 80-year streak of quarterly payouts. The dividend is payable on March 2, 2026, to shareholders of record by February 9, 2026. The company, which operates under the Aqua and Peoples brands, has increased its dividend 35 times in the last 34 years.
Tandem Investment Advisors Inc. Has $37.86 Million Position in Essential Utilities Inc. $WTRG
Tandem Investment Advisors Inc. reduced its stake in Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE:WTRG) by 54.2% in the last quarter, yet still holds 948,863 shares valued at $37.86 million. Despite this insider selling, institutional ownership remains strong at nearly 74.8%, with firms like Norges Bank and Vanguard Group Inc. increasing their positions. Essential Utilities recently announced a quarterly dividend, and analysts have a consensus "Hold" rating with an average target price of $43.29.
Cambiar Investors LLC Lowers Stock Position in Essential Utilities Inc. $WTRG
Cambiar Investors LLC significantly reduced its stake in Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE:WTRG) by 38.5% in the third quarter, selling 79,300 shares and retaining 126,448 shares valued at approximately $5.05 million. Despite this, institutional investors collectively own 74.78% of the company. Essential Utilities reported strong third-quarter earnings, beating analyst expectations with $0.33 EPS and $476.97 million in revenue, and declared a quarterly dividend of $0.3426, offering a 3.5% yield.
Essential Utilities Taps Insider to Drive Strategy as Growth Push Accelerates
Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE: WTRG) has promoted Alexis Rodriguez to vice president of strategy and corporate development, tasking him with leading strategic initiatives and overseeing growth opportunities for Aqua, its regulated water subsidiary. Rodriguez, who has been with the company for five years, will also continue as chief of staff to the CEO, leveraging his internal knowledge and experience to further the company's growth plans. This move highlights Essential Utilities' focus on advancing its regulated water and wastewater operations.
27,263 Shares in Essential Utilities Inc. $WTRG Purchased by Commerzbank Aktiengesellschaft FI
Commerzbank Aktiengesellschaft FI recently acquired a new position in Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE:WTRG), purchasing 27,263 shares valued at approximately $1.088 million in the third quarter. This acquisition comes as Essential Utilities reported strong Q3 earnings, exceeding analyst expectations with $0.33 EPS and a 9.6% year-over-year revenue increase. Despite a consensus "Hold" rating from analysts, the company's solid financial performance and institutional interest highlight its market presence.
Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH Has $13.13 Million Stake in Essential Utilities Inc. $WTRG
Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH significantly increased its stake in Essential Utilities Inc. (WTRG) by 48.4% in the third quarter, bringing its total holding to 329,121 shares valued at approximately $13.13 million. This strategic investment follows Essential Utilities beating its Q3 earnings expectations with $0.33 EPS and $476.97 million in revenue. Analysts currently maintain a "Hold" rating on Essential Utilities, with an average target price of $43.29.
80 years of quarterly dividends: Essential's latest payout set
Essential Utilities Inc. has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.3426 per share, payable on March 2, 2026. The company boasts a long history of dividend payments, having paid consecutive quarterly cash dividends for 80 years and increasing the dividend 35 times in the last 34 years. Essential Utilities provides water, wastewater, and natural gas services to approximately 5.5 million people across nine states through its Aqua and Peoples brands.
Essential Utilities (WTRG) advances American Water merger with IMO launch and Feb. 10 shareholder vote
Essential Utilities (WTRG) has established an Integration Management Office (IMO) with American Water as part of their planned merger, focusing on culture, governance, organization, and technology. The merger is expected to close in Q1 2027, and a virtual shareholder vote for approval is scheduled for February 10, 2026. The company also provided extensive cautionary language regarding forward-looking statements and directed investors to SEC filings for detailed information.
Essential Declares March 2026 Dividend
Essential Utilities Inc. has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.3426 per share, payable on March 2, 2026, to shareholders of record on February 9, 2026. This marks 80 years of consecutive quarterly cash dividends and 35 dividend increases in the last 34 years for the company. Essential Utilities focuses on providing water, wastewater, and natural gas services to approximately 5.5 million people across nine states.
Essential Utilities names Alexis Rodriguez Vice President of Strategy and Corporate Development.
Essential Utilities has appointed Alexis Rodriguez as Vice President of Strategy and Corporate Development. Rodriguez, who has been with the company for five years, will lead strategic initiatives and growth opportunities for Aqua, reporting to Aqua President Colleen Arnold. He will also continue to serve as Chief of Staff to Chairman and CEO Christopher Franklin.
Stephens Inc. AR Sells 28,013 Shares of Essential Utilities Inc. $WTRG
Stephens Inc. AR reduced its stake in Essential Utilities (NYSE:WTRG) by 45.9% in Q3, selling 28,013 shares, though its remaining holding was valued at $1.32 million. Concurrently, other institutional investors like Goldman Sachs increased their positions, with institutional ownership of WTRG stock now at approximately 74.78%. Essential Utilities reported strong Q3 earnings, beating analyst estimates, and maintains a "Hold" consensus rating with a 3.4% dividend yield.
Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Group Inc. Grows Stock Holdings in Essential Utilities Inc. $WTRG
Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Group Inc. increased its stake in Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE:WTRG) by 5.8% in the third quarter, now holding 575,524 shares valued at $22.96 million. Essential Utilities recently reported strong Q3 earnings, beating analyst estimates with EPS of $0.33 and revenue of $476.97 million, and offers a quarterly dividend yielding approximately 3.4%. The company currently holds a consensus "Hold" rating from analysts with an average price target of $43.29.
Engineer-to-banker now leading strategy at Essential Utilities as VP
Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE: WTRG) has appointed Alexis Rodriguez as Vice President of Strategy and Corporate Development. Rodriguez, who has been with the company for five years, will lead strategic initiatives and growth opportunities, reporting to Aqua President Colleen Arnold, and will continue to serve as Chief of Staff to Chairman and CEO Christopher Franklin. He brings experience from investment banking at Credit Suisse and electrical engineering at Siemens Energy to his new role.
Essential Utilities Elevates Alexis Rodriguez to Vice President of Strategy and Corporate Development
Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE: WTRG) has promoted Alexis Rodriguez to Vice President of Strategy and Corporate Development. Rodriguez, who has been with the company for five years, will lead strategic initiatives and growth opportunities for Aqua, reporting to Aqua President Colleen Arnold. He will also continue in his role as Chief of Staff to Chairman and CEO Christopher Franklin.
Essential Utilities Elevates Alexis Rodriguez to Vice President of Strategy and Corporate Development
Essential Utilities Inc. has appointed Alexis Rodriguez as Vice President of Strategy and Corporate Development. Rodriguez, who joined the company five years ago, will lead the execution of Essential's strategic initiatives and Aqua's growth opportunities. He will continue to serve as Chief of Staff to Chairman and CEO Christopher Franklin.
Regulatory Shift in New Jersey Puts Essential Utilities Merger in Focus
New Jersey's utility regulatory board, the BPU, has undergone a significant political shift with four of its five seats now held by Democrats or recent independents. This change could impact the operating environment for utilities like Essential Utilities Inc., particularly affecting the regulatory approval process for its proposed $63 billion merger with American Water Works Company, Inc. The merger's progression hinges on a February 10, 2026, shareholder vote and subsequent BPU clearances, with analysts currently rating Essential Utilities stock as "Hold."
SG Americas Securities LLC Has $2.83 Million Holdings in Essential Utilities Inc. $WTRG
SG Americas Securities LLC significantly reduced its stake in Essential Utilities Inc. (WTRG) by 47.1%, now holding 70,978 shares valued at $2.832 million. Despite this, Essential Utilities reported strong Q3 earnings, exceeding analyst expectations with EPS of $0.33 and a 9.6% year-over-year revenue increase, and declared a quarterly dividend of $0.3426. Analysts currently maintain a "Hold" consensus rating for the stock, with an average price target of $43.29.
Essential Utilities (NYSE: WTRG) sets shareholder vote on American Water merger
Essential Utilities (NYSE: WTRG) has set February 10, 2026, as the date for shareholders to vote on its proposed merger with American Water, following the filing of a Definitive Proxy Statement. While this shareholder vote is a crucial step, the merger's completion remains contingent on obtaining all necessary regulatory approvals, with the anticipated closing by the end of the first quarter of 2027. Both companies will continue to operate independently until all conditions are met, and state regulatory filings have already been made in several key states.
Assessing Essential Utilities (WTRG) Valuation After Recent Share Price Weakness And Infrastructure Investment Plans
Essential Utilities (WTRG) has come under recent share price pressure, prompting a re-evaluation of its valuation and infrastructure investment plans. Despite short-term weakness, the company is seen as potentially undervalued due to planned infrastructure spending, growth in regulated rate base, and acquisition opportunities in water services. Long-term prospects are supported by expanding demand, regulatory emphasis on water quality, and the company's scale.
Synergy Asset Management LLC Grows Stock Position in Essential Utilities Inc. $WTRG
Synergy Asset Management LLC significantly increased its stake in Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE: WTRG) by 351.4% in the third quarter, bringing its total holdings to 234,179 shares valued at $9,057,000. Institutional investors now own 74.78% of the stock. While analysts generally rate WTRG as a "Hold" with a consensus price target of $43.29, the company offers a quarterly dividend of $0.3426, annualizing to a 3.5% yield.
The Truth About Essential Utilities Inc (WTRG): Boring Stock Or Low-Key Money Machine?
Essential Utilities Inc (WTRG) is presented as a stable, dividend-paying stock in the utility sector (water and natural gas), appealing to investors seeking long-term stability and income rather than high-volatility growth. The article emphasizes its defensive nature, consistent demand for its services, and regulatory moat, making it a "boring but powerful" addition to a diversified portfolio. It advises investors to check live data for current prices and dividend information before making investment decisions.
Essential Utilities Sets February Vote on All-Stock Merger With American Water
Essential Utilities (WTRG) has scheduled a shareholder vote for February 10, 2026, regarding its all-stock merger with American Water, converting each Essential share into 0.305 shares of American Water. Both company boards unanimously back the deal, which aims to create a larger U.S. water utility. Shareholder approval is required to finalize the merger.
Pacer Advisors Inc. Invests $1.91 Million in Essential Utilities Inc. $WTRG
Pacer Advisors Inc. has acquired a new stake of 47,957 shares in Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE:WTRG), valued at approximately $1.91 million during the third quarter. The company has an average "Hold" rating from analysts with a consensus price target of $43.29, and recently reported beating quarterly EPS estimates. Essential Utilities also announced a quarterly dividend, annualized to a 3.6% yield.
Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE:WTRG) Receives Average Recommendation of "Hold" from Brokerages
Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE:WTRG) has received an average recommendation of "Hold" from eleven brokerages, with an average 12-month price target of $43.29. The company recently reported an EPS beat and revenue growth, along with a quarterly dividend. While some analysts have lowered their price targets, others have upgraded their ratings, indicating mixed views on the stock.
Essential Utilities Employees Rally $1.27M to Fight Hunger Across Nine States
Essential Utilities employees raised and donated over $1.27 million through their United Way campaign and Fall for Food Banks initiative to combat hunger across their nine-state service area. This significant effort included financial contributions, volunteer hours, and partnerships with local nonprofits, providing meals to over 55,000 people and supporting nearly 480 organizations. The combined campaigns highlight the company's deep commitment to community impact and addressing food insecurity.
Boston Trust Walden Corp Purchases 80,102 Shares of Essential Utilities Inc. $WTRG
Boston Trust Walden Corp increased its stake in Essential Utilities Inc. by 3.1% during the third quarter, acquiring an additional 80,102 shares. This boosted their total holdings to 2,624,985 shares, valued at approximately $104.74 million, making Essential Utilities its 27th largest investment. The company, trading under NYSE:WTRG, has a "Hold" consensus rating from analysts with a target price of $43.29, and recently reported strong Q3 earnings and a quarterly dividend.
Covea Finance Grows Position in Essential Utilities Inc. $WTRG
Covea Finance significantly increased its stake in Essential Utilities Inc. ($WTRG) by 66.3% in Q3, now holding 109,400 shares valued at $4.37 million. This move comes as Essential Utilities reported strong Q3 earnings, beating analyst estimates with $0.33 EPS and $477 million in revenue, and offers an annualized dividend yield of approximately 3.6%. While institutional ownership stands at nearly 75%, analyst ratings for the utility company are mixed, with a consensus "Hold" rating and an average price target of $43.29.
Flputnam Investment Management Co. Purchases 64,338 Shares of Essential Utilities Inc. $WTRG
Flputnam Investment Management Co. increased its stake in Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE:WTRG) by 14.3% during the third quarter, acquiring an additional 64,338 shares to bring its total holdings to 514,296 shares valued at $20.52 million. Other institutional investors also adjusted their positions, and Wall Street analysts currently give Essential Utilities an average "Hold" rating with a target price of $43.29. The company recently reported strong quarterly earnings and pays a quarterly dividend providing a 3.6% yield.
Essential Utilities Shows Holiday Spirit Announcing More than $1.2 Million in Donations Through Two Major Campaigns
Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE: WTRG) announced that its 2025-2026 United Way campaign and fifth annual Fall for Food Banks initiative raised over $1.2 million through employee efforts and company matching gifts. These funds, totaling $1,277,325, will support local communities across its nine-state footprint, addressing food insecurity and other challenges. Over $520,000 was specifically donated to fight hunger, with employees volunteering more than 1,000 hours.
Essential Utilities Shows Holiday Spirit Announcing More than $1.2 Million in Donations Through Two Major Campaigns
Essential Utilities announced over $1.2 million in donations through its 2025-2026 United Way campaign and its fifth annual Fall for Food Banks initiative. The efforts specifically raised more than $755,000 for United Way and over $520,000 to combat food insecurity in local communities across nine states. The company's employees volunteered over 1,000 hours, demonstrating a significant commitment to improving community well-being and addressing critical challenges like hunger.
WTRG: Barclays Downgrades Essential Utilities to Underweight with Lowered Price Target | WTRG Stock News GuruFocus News
Barclays has downgraded Essential Utilities (WTRG) from Overweight to Underweight and cut its price target from $43.00 to $38.00, representing an 11.63% decrease. This revision reflects a cautious outlook on the stock's performance. Despite the downgrade, other analysts offer a higher average target price, implying an upside from the current price.
