The chart below shows how CPK performed 10 days before and after its earnings report, based on data from the past quarters. Typically, CPK sees a -0.42% change in stock price 10 days leading up to the earnings, and a -1.31% change 10 days following the report. On the earnings day itself, the stock moves by +0.30%. This data can give you a slight idea of what to expect for the next quarter's release.
Positive
Earnings Per Share Increase: 1. Strong Earnings Growth: Adjusted earnings per share for Q3 2024 was $0.80, a 15% increase compared to the same quarter last year, contributing to a year-to-date EPS of $3.76.
Margin Expansion Achievement: 2. Significant Margin Expansion: Adjusted gross margin reached approximately $122 million, up 29% from Q3 2023, driven by the addition of Florida City Gas and solid performance across all business segments.
Customer Base Expansion: 3. Robust Customer Growth: Both Delmarva and Florida experienced a 3.9% increase in residential customers in Q3 2024 compared to the same period last year, indicating strong demand for natural gas services.
Capital Investment Strategy: 4. Strong Capital Investment: Chesapeake Utilities invested $257 million in capital projects during the first nine months of 2024, with expectations to reach a total of $300 million to $360 million for the full year.
Dividend Growth Commitment: 5. Consistent Dividend Growth: The company has maintained a strong history of consistent dividend growth at approximately 9%, reflecting its commitment to returning value to shareholders while supporting future growth.
Negative
Operating Expenses Rise: 1. Increased Operating Expenses: Operating expenses related to Florida City Gas increased by $0.28 per share, contributing to overall cost pressures despite revenue growth.
Acquisition Financing Impact: 2. Acquisition Financing Costs: Approximately $0.46 per share was attributed to financing the Florida City Gas acquisition, impacting net earnings despite strong operational performance.
Rate Increase Requests: 3. Regulatory Rate Increase Requests: The company filed for a $12.1 million rate increase in Delaware and a $12.6 million rate increase in Florida, indicating potential pressure on customer rates and regulatory scrutiny.
Weather's Effect on Performance: 4. Weather Impact on Q4 Performance: The company noted a less favorable weather backdrop as they entered the fourth quarter, which could negatively affect demand and earnings.
Rising Payroll and Insurance Costs: 5. Increased Payroll and Insurance Expenses: There was a $0.02 per share increase in expenses related to payroll and insurance, contributing to overall rising operational costs.
Chesapeake Utilities Corporation (CPK) Q3 2024 Earnings Call Transcript
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