Validea John Neff Strategy Daily Upgrade Report - 7/25/2025
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Source: NASDAQ.COM
Stock Ratings Update: Validea's Low PE Investor model, based on John Neff's strategy, has upgraded H2O America (HTO) from 60% to 79% and Essential Utilities Inc. (WTRG) from 58% to 77%, indicating growing interest in both stocks due to their fundamentals and valuations.
About John Neff: John Neff is recognized for his conservative investment approach, managing the Windsor Fund with a remarkable average annual return of 13.7% from 1964 to 1995, significantly outperforming the S&P 500 during that period.
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Analyst Views on HTO
Wall Street analysts forecast HTO stock price to rise over the next 12 months. According to Wall Street analysts, the average 1-year price target for HTO is 61.00 USD with a low forecast of 57.00 USD and a high forecast of 66.00 USD. However, analyst price targets are subjective and often lag stock prices, so investors should focus on the objective reasons behind analyst rating changes, which better reflect the company's fundamentals.
5 Analyst Rating
3 Buy
2 Hold
0 Sell
Moderate Buy
Current: 51.260
Low
57.00
Averages
61.00
High
66.00
Current: 51.260
Low
57.00
Averages
61.00
High
66.00
About HTO
H2O America, formerly SJW Group, is a national investor-owned network of local water and wastewater utilities for the purpose of delivering clean, high-quality water to the communities. The Company has four regional water utilities, such as Connecticut Water, Maine Water, San Jose Water, and Texas Water. The Company serves approximately 1.6 million people across the country.
About the author
Emily J. Thompson
Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.
H2O Declares 4.8% Increase in Quarterly Dividend
- Dividend Increase: H2O has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.44 per share, representing a 4.8% increase from the previous $0.42, demonstrating the company's ongoing commitment to stable cash flow and shareholder returns.
- Yield Performance: The forward yield of 3.36% not only attracts income-seeking investors but also enhances market interest in H2O's stock, positioning it as a favorable investment choice.
- Payment Schedule: The dividend will be payable on March 2, with a record date of February 9 and an ex-dividend date also on February 9, ensuring shareholders receive timely returns.
- Future Outlook: Amid increased investments in Texas and M&A activity, H2O has narrowed its 2025 EPS guidance to a range of $2.95 to $3, reflecting the company's confidence in future growth prospects.
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H2O America Declares 4.8% Increase in Quarterly Dividend
- Dividend Increase: H2O America has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.44 per share, representing a 4.8% increase over the December 2025 dividend, reflecting the company's confidence in its long-term growth strategy.
- Consistent Payment Record: The company has increased its annual dividend for 58 consecutive years and has paid dividends for over 80 years, demonstrating stability and reliability in shareholder returns.
- Infrastructure Investment: H2O America is focused on infrastructure improvements to ensure high-quality water delivery, which not only enhances service quality but also strengthens the company's community responsibility and image.
- Service Coverage: Through its four regional water utilities, the company serves over 1.6 million people nationwide, committed to providing clean, high-quality water to ensure public health and vibrant communities.
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