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Fortis Inc (TSE:FTS)
TSX:FTS

Fortis (FTS) AI Stock Analysis

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TS

Fortis

(TSX:FTS)

73Outperform
Fortis's stock score reflects its solid financial performance and strategic initiatives, supported by consistent dividend growth and robust capital investments. The company's stable operating performance and effective management of leverage are key strengths, while challenges include high capital expenditures affecting free cash flow and potential regulatory hurdles. Valuation concerns persist with a relatively high P/E ratio, tempered by a strong dividend yield. Overall, Fortis maintains a positive outlook with a stable growth trajectory.
Positive Factors
Asset Base Quality
Investors are likely to have a positive bias toward Fortis's nearly 99% regulated assets, offering visible growth despite U.S. trade war uncertainty.
Management Plan
Fortis management's plan is considered highly achievable, which could be a positive factor for the company's future performance.
Regulatory Environment
The outlook for Fortis' Arizona utilities is improving, with potential for additional generation spending and favorable regulatory reforms.
Negative Factors
Earnings Growth
Fortis is seen to have below-average EPS growth, which is concerning given its current premium valuation.
Incentive Risks
Concerns exist that previously available transmission incentives may become harder to secure, affecting transmission project risks.
Regulatory Risk
The appointment of Mark Christie as FERC Chairman introduces a risk for transmission ratemaking, impacting Fortis' risk profile.

Fortis (FTS) vs. S&P 500 (SPY)

Fortis Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionFortis Inc. operates as an electric and gas utility company in Canada, the United States, and the Caribbean countries. It generates, transmits, and distributes electricity to approximately 438,000 retail customers in southeastern Arizona; and 100,000 retail customers in Arizona's Mohave and Santa Cruz counties with an aggregate capacity of 3,485 megawatts (MW), including 53 MW of solar capacity and 252 MV of wind capacity. The company also sells wholesale electricity to other entities in the western United States; owns gas-fired and hydroelectric generating capacity totaling 65 MW; and distributes natural gas to approximately 1,065,000 residential, commercial, and industrial customers in British Columbia, Canada. In addition, it owns and operates the electricity distribution system that serves approximately 577,000 customers in southern and central Alberta; owns 4 hydroelectric generating facilities with a combined capacity of 225 MW; and provides operation, maintenance, and management services to five hydroelectric generating facilities. Further, the company distributes electricity in the island portion of Newfoundland and Labrador with an installed generating capacity of 143 MW; and on Prince Edward Island with a generating capacity of 130 MW. Additionally, it provides integrated electric utility service to approximately 68,000 customers in Ontario; approximately 272,000 customers in Newfoundland and Labrador; approximately 32,000 customers on Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands; and approximately 16,000 customers on certain islands in Turks and Caicos. The company also holds long-term contracted generation assets in Belize consisting of 3 hydroelectric generating facilities with a combined capacity of 51 MW; and the Aitken Creek natural gas storage facility. It also owns and operates approximately 90,200 circuit Kilometers (km) of distribution lines; and approximately 50,500 km of natural gas pipelines. Fortis Inc. was founded in 1885 and is headquartered in St. John's, Canada.
How the Company Makes MoneyFortis makes money through its regulated utility operations, which provide electric and gas services to millions of customers. The company's revenue model is heavily reliant on regulated utility rates, which are approved by government regulatory bodies and provide a stable and predictable income stream. Key revenue streams include electricity generation and distribution, natural gas distribution, and transmission operations. Fortis also benefits from strategic acquisitions and investments in renewable energy projects, which contribute to its earnings. Additionally, the company may engage in partnerships with other utility providers or energy companies to enhance its service offerings and expand its market presence.

Fortis Financial Statement Overview

Summary
Fortis demonstrates strong profitability with robust EBIT and EBITDA margins. Despite a high debt-to-equity ratio, the company maintains a stable balance sheet and efficient cash generation from operations. However, significant capital expenditures impact free cash flow, reflecting challenges typical of the utilities sector.
Income Statement
82
Very Positive
Fortis exhibits strong profitability with a consistent increase in net income over recent years. The gross profit margin for 2024 is approximately 71.8%, and the net profit margin is about 14.6%, highlighting effective cost management and operational efficiency. Revenue growth has been moderate, with a recent slight decline, but overall, the company maintains a stable financial performance. EBIT and EBITDA margins are robust at 28.6% and 47.9%, respectively, indicating solid operating health.
Balance Sheet
75
Positive
Fortis has a relatively high debt-to-equity ratio of 1.42, suggesting leverage is significant, but manageable given the industry context. The equity ratio stands at 32.4%, indicating a strong capital base. Return on equity is healthy at 7.1%, reflecting good returns for shareholders despite high debt levels. Overall, the company maintains a stable balance sheet with adequate equity backing its assets.
Cash Flow
68
Positive
The cash flow statement shows some challenges, particularly with free cash flow being negative at -$1.336 billion, indicating high capital expenditures typical of the utilities sector. Operating cash flow is strong relative to net income, with a ratio of 2.31, suggesting efficient cash generation from operations. However, the free cash flow to net income ratio is negative, underscoring the impact of capital spending.
Breakdown
Dec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021Dec 2020
Income StatementTotal Revenue
11.51B11.52B11.04B9.45B8.94B
Gross Profit
8.26B4.86B7.09B6.50B6.37B
EBIT
3.29B3.08B2.74B2.47B2.51B
EBITDA
5.51B5.15B4.50B4.02B3.97B
Net Income Common Stockholders
1.68B1.57B1.39B1.29B1.27B
Balance SheetCash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments
220.00M625.00M209.00M131.00M249.00M
Total Assets
73.49B65.92B64.25B57.66B55.48B
Total Debt
33.70B30.03B29.04B25.95B24.86B
Net Debt
33.48B29.40B28.83B25.82B24.61B
Total Liabilities
47.63B42.59B41.41B36.74B35.20B
Stockholders Equity
23.81B21.50B21.03B19.29B18.70B
Cash FlowFree Cash Flow
-1.34B-624.00M-791.00M-479.00M-1.34B
Operating Cash Flow
3.88B3.54B3.07B2.91B2.70B
Investing Cash Flow
-5.39B-3.74B-4.06B-3.49B-4.13B
Financing Cash Flow
1.06B613.00M1.03B451.00M1.33B

Fortis Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Positive
Last Price66.14
Price Trends
50DMA
63.72
Positive
100DMA
62.04
Positive
200DMA
59.98
Positive
Market Momentum
MACD
0.35
Positive
RSI
59.99
Neutral
STOCH
67.80
Neutral
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For TSE:FTS, the sentiment is Positive. The current price of 66.14 is above the 20-day moving average (MA) of 64.73, above the 50-day MA of 63.72, and above the 200-day MA of 59.98, indicating a bullish trend. The MACD of 0.35 indicates Positive momentum. The RSI at 59.99 is Neutral, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 67.80 is Neutral, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Positive sentiment for TSE:FTS.

Fortis Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (63)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
TSFTS
73
Outperform
$33.00B20.297.47%3.65%-0.08%4.76%
TSCU
70
Neutral
C$7.46B24.506.93%4.99%-1.42%-36.31%
63
Neutral
$9.19B11.976.86%4.40%4.23%-11.24%
* Utilities Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
TSE:FTS
Fortis
66.14
16.84
34.16%
ENB
Enbridge
44.28
13.38
43.30%
BEP
Brookfield Renewable Partners
21.22
2.33
12.33%
TSE:CU
Canadian Utilities A
37.08
9.05
32.29%
AQN
Algonquin Power & Utilities
5.17
-0.18
-3.36%
EMRAF
Emera
42.74
10.93
34.36%

Fortis Earnings Call Summary

Earnings Call Date: Feb 14, 2025 | % Change Since: 6.19% | Next Earnings Date: May 7, 2025
Earnings Call Sentiment Positive
The earnings call for Fortis Inc. reflects a positive outlook with record capital investments, dividend growth, and strong financial performance. However, challenges such as regulatory hurdles and potential impacts from foreign exchange fluctuations are noted. Overall, the highlights significantly outweigh the lowlights, indicating a strong positive sentiment.
Highlights
Record Capital Investment
Fortis invested a record $5.2 billion in capital during 2024, supporting its regulated growth strategy and consistent execution.
Dividend Growth and Governance Recognition
Fortis increased its dividend for the 51st consecutive year and was ranked number one in governance among 215 companies in the S&P/TSX Composite Index by the Globe and Mail.
Strong Financial Performance
Adjusted EPS grew by approximately 6% in 2024, with a one-year total shareholder return of approximately 14%.
Significant Reduction in Emissions
Fortis reduced Scope 1 emissions by 34% compared to 2019 levels.
MISO Board Approval
The MISO Board approved Tranche 2.1 LRTP projects with 24 projects totaling US$21.8 billion.
Potential Growth in Arizona
TEP is negotiating for over 300 megawatts of new customer load using existing and planned capacity, which could increase TEP's retail sales by approximately 20%.
Lowlights
Regulatory Challenges
The UNS Gas rate case and potential tariffs could impact Fortis' operations, but specific impacts are yet to be determined.
Foreign Exchange Impact
Fortis modified its hedging program due to the strengthening of the U.S. dollar, which could affect the five-year capital plan.
Higher Operating Costs
TEP incurred higher operating costs reflecting labor costs and increased planned generation maintenance in 2024.
Company Guidance
During the Fortis Inc. Fourth Quarter and Annual 2024 Earnings Conference Call, the company provided detailed guidance on several financial metrics and strategic initiatives. Fortis reported a record capital investment of $5.2 billion and achieved a 6% growth in adjusted EPS for 2024. The company also announced its 51st consecutive year of increasing dividends, with a 4% rise to $2.39 per common share. The five-year capital plan, totaling $26 billion, is expected to increase the rate base by approximately $14 billion to reach $53 billion by 2029, supporting an average annual rate base growth of 6.5%. Fortis aims for stable and compelling returns, with a one-year total shareholder return of 14% and a 20-year average annual total shareholder return of 10%. The company's focus on reducing climate impacts was highlighted by a 34% reduction in Scope 1 emissions compared to 2019 levels. Looking forward, Fortis maintains its annual dividend growth guidance of 4% to 6% through 2029, leveraging its regulated growth strategy.

Fortis Corporate Events

Private Placements and FinancingBusiness Operations and Strategy
Fortis Inc. Completes $600 Million Senior Notes Offering
Positive
Mar 26, 2025

Fortis Inc. has successfully closed a private placement offering of $600 million in senior unsecured notes, maturing in 2032, with a 4.090% interest rate. This strategic financial move, facilitated by a syndicate of agents, bolsters Fortis’ capital structure and supports its ongoing operations and growth in the utility sector, reinforcing its position as a key player in the North American energy market.

Financial DisclosuresRegulatory Filings and Compliance
Fortis Inc. Files 2024 Year-End Financial Disclosure Documents
Neutral
Feb 14, 2025

Fortis Inc. has filed its audited Consolidated Financial Statements, Management Discussion and Analysis, Form 40-F, and 2024 Annual Information Form with Canadian and U.S. securities regulatory authorities for the year ending December 31, 2024. This filing supports transparency and compliance, potentially impacting investor relations as documents are made available electronically for stakeholders. The Management Information Circular for the upcoming Annual Meeting of Shareholders is expected by late March.

DividendsBusiness Operations and StrategyFinancial Disclosures
Fortis Inc. Reports Strong 2024 Financial Results with Continued Dividend Growth
Positive
Feb 14, 2025

Fortis Inc. reported strong financial results for 2024, with annual net earnings reaching $1.6 billion, marking a 6% growth in adjusted net earnings per share. The company’s robust performance was driven by rate base growth and strategic capital expenditures totaling $5.2 billion. Despite some challenges, such as increased finance costs and unrealized losses on derivatives, Fortis maintained a steady increase in its common share dividend for the 51st consecutive year. The company remains committed to its $26 billion five-year capital plan, aiming to achieve annual dividend growth of 4-6% through 2029, thereby reinforcing its industry position and delivering value to stakeholders.

Dividends
Fortis Inc. Declares Second Quarter 2025 Dividends
Positive
Feb 14, 2025

Fortis Inc. has announced dividends for the second quarter of 2025, declaring specific per-share dividends for various series of its First Preference Shares as well as its Common Shares, all payable on June 1, 2025, to shareholders of record by May 16, 2025. This announcement underscores Fortis’s commitment to providing returns to its shareholders and highlights its ongoing role as a stable entity in the utility industry, offering eligible dividends that benefit from federal and provincial tax credits.

Glossary
OutperformA stock rated as "Outperform" is expected to perform better than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests that the stock is likely to deliver higher returns compared to the average returns of other stocks in the same sector or market index. Investors might consider this stock a good buying opportunity.
NeutralA stock rated as "Neutral" is expected to perform in line with the overall market or a specific benchmark. This rating indicates that the stock is neither particularly attractive nor unattractive for investment. Investors may consider holding onto the stock, as it is not expected to either significantly outperform or underperform the market.
UnderperformA stock rated as "Underperform" is expected to perform worse than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests that the stock may deliver lower returns compared to the average returns of other stocks in the same sector or market index. Investors might consider selling the stock or avoiding it as an investment.

Disclaimer

This AI Analyst Stock Report is automatically generated by our AI systems using advanced algorithms and publicly available financial, technical, and market data. While the information provided aims to be accurate and insightful, it is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Any content created by an AI (Artificial Intelligence) system may contain inaccuracies and/or contain errors. Investing in stocks carries inherent risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results. This report does not account for your personal financial circumstances, objectives, or risk tolerance. Always conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The analysis and recommendations provided are based on historical and current data and may not fully reflect future market conditions or unexpected developments. Neither the creators of this report nor its affiliated entities guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. Use this report at your own discretion and risk.