Duke Energy says it could cost St. Petersburg $4B to split off its grid

Duke Energy (DUK) reported Q2 2026 earnings of $1.43 per share, beating expectations despite lower revenues and higher interest expenses. The stock has underperformed recently, with a 30-day return of -3.7% and a 90-day return of -1.5%. Analysts debate its valuation, with some arguing it's undervalued at $120.22 per share due to long-term capital projects and grid investments, while others suggest it's overvalued based on discounted cash flow models.

Duke Energy (DUK) reported Q2 2026 earnings of $1.43 per share, beating expectations, though revenue slightly missed forecasts. The company plans to cut customer rates in Florida in 2027 due to lower fuel costs and tax benefits. Duke projects $37.7B revenue and $6.4B earnings by 2029, requiring 4.8% yearly revenue growth. Rising interest expenses remain a key risk.

Duke Energy (DUK), a $93.9B market cap utility company, has underperformed the Nasdaq Composite over the past year, with a 1.1% decline compared to the index's 23.2% gain. DUK's stock is down 10.4% from its 52-week high, trading below its 200-day and 50-day moving averages. Q2 2026 earnings showed mixed results, with revenue missing estimates but adjusted EPS beating them. Analysts have a 'Moderate Buy' consensus, with a mean price target of $137.10, implying 13.7% upside.

Duke Energy (DUK), Southern Company (SO), and Consolidated Edison (ED) report strong earnings and dividend growth. Duke's Q2 EPS beat estimates, with management reaffirming full-year guidance. Southern's Q2 EPS also exceeded expectations, and Con Edison extended its 52-year dividend increase streak. All three companies benefit from regulated cash flows and long-term growth plans.

Duke Energy Progress seeks a 9.3% residential rate hike over two years, with N.C. Attorney General Jeff Jackson refusing to sign the proposed settlement. The company cites grid investments and increased demand. The N.C. Utilities Commission will decide by mid-November. Residents and lawmakers oppose the increase, citing affordability concerns.

Southern Company (SO) and Duke Energy (DUK) are highlighted for their significant investments in data centers and AI-related infrastructure, with SO signing a 3.2 GW deal with OpenAI and DUK deploying $1 billion monthly. American Electric Power (AEP) plans $78 billion in capital investments, targeting 11% rate-base growth. These companies offer higher yields and growth potential compared to the Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLU), which has a 3% yield and slower growth due to its diversified