Southern Company (SO) Monthly Stock Report

Publication Date: September 22, 2024

Company Overview

Southern Company (NYSE: SO) is a leading utility provider based in Atlanta, Georgia, with a focus on electric power generation, transmission, and distribution. Established in 1945, Southern Company has built a diverse portfolio of power generation assets, including renewable energy projects, and actively participates in the wholesale electricity market. The company also distributes natural gas across several states, operating an extensive infrastructure of approximately 77,900 miles of natural gas pipelines. Serving around 8.9 million electric and gas utility customers, Southern Company is committed to innovation through distributed energy solutions and microgrids, securing its position within the Electric Utilities sub-industry. With total revenues of approximately $26.13 billion, Southern Company exemplifies stability and potential for growth, making it an attractive option for investors.

Market Performance and Analyst Insights

As of now, Southern Company’s stock is trading at $89.70, close to its target high price of $96.00. This target represents a notable upside, particularly in a regulated utility sector characterized by lower volatility. The current stock price is nearing its fifty-two week high of $90.34, showcasing robust performance with a trading range between $61.56 and $90.34 over the past year. The stock’s fifty-day moving average is positioned at $86.07, suggesting bullish sentiment as it trades above this benchmark.

Analyst forecasts indicate a mean target price of $87.51, with a median target of $90.00, presenting a generally favorable outlook despite a slightly bearish sentiment reflected in the target low of $71.00. The recommendation from 17 analysts predominantly leans towards a “buy,” underscored by a recommendation mean score of 2.5. Furthermore, the stock exhibits a low short interest of about 1.61%, suggesting minimal bearish sentiment among investors. Overall, a solid financial footing combined with a positive analyst outlook makes Southern Company an appealing addition to investment portfolios.

Conclusion

Southern Company’s well-established market presence, consistent revenue performance, and strong analyst support make it a compelling utility stock for investors seeking stability and growth. With its ongoing innovations in energy distribution and a strategic focus on renewable resources, Southern Company is positioned for sustained progress in the evolving utilities landscape.

Metric	Value
Market Cap	$98.2b
Total Debt	$65.5b
Total Cash	$1.2b
Shares Outstanding	1.1b
Float Shares	1.1b