Southern Company posts Q3 2026 earnings beat and raises full‑year guidance

Southern Company reported third‑quarter 2026 net income of $2.0 billion, or $1.77 per share, beating prior‑year results of $1.7 billion. Revenue rose 13% year‑over‑year to $8.8 billion. Adjusted earnings per share were $1.94, up 21.3% from a year earlier, and the company lifted its full‑year adjusted EPS outlook to $4.70. Management highlighted strong data‑center demand, a 59% usage increase, and a capital‑investment plan of $85 billion, with potential to reach $100 billion.

The earnings beat and higher guidance signal stronger profitability and cash flow, which may support the company’s expanded capital‑investment program. Analysts note the raised EPS outlook (the company expects $4.70 for 2026) as a positive catalyst for the stock.

  • 1Q3 2026 net income was $2.0 billion, or $1.77 per share, compared with $1.7 billion, or $1.55 per share, in Q3 2025.
  • 2Operating revenue for the quarter was $8.8 billion, a 13% increase year‑over‑year.
  • 3Adjusted EPS for the quarter was $1.94, up 21.3% from $1.60 a year earlier.
  • 4Full‑year 2026 adjusted EPS guidance was raised to $4.70, $0.10 above the prior upper bound.
  • 5Capital‑investment plan was increased to $85 billion, with potential to reach $100 billion over five years.
  • 6Data‑center usage grew 59% in the quarter and 52% year‑to‑date.

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