Xcel Energy (XEL)


Market Price (9/27/2026): $69.84 | Market Cap: $43.6 BilInvestor Relations Sector: Utilities | Industry: Multi-Utilities

Xcel Energy (XEL)


Market Price (9/27/2026): $69.84
Market Cap: $43.6 Bil
Sector: Utilities
Industry: Multi-Utilities

Investment Highlights Why It Matters Detailed financial logic regarding cash flow yields vs trend-riding momentum.

0

Attractive yield
Total YieldTotal Yield = Earnings Yield + Dividend Yield, Earnings Yield = Net Income / Market Cap Dividend Yield = Total Dividends / Market Cap is 8.2%, Dividend Yield is 3.1%, ERPEquity Risk Premium (ERP) = Total Yield - Risk Free Rate, Reflects the premium above risk free assets offered by the investment. is 4.4%

Attractive cash flow generation
CFO/Rev LTMCash Flow from Operations / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 33%, CFO LTM is 4.8 Bil

Low stock price volatility
Vol 12M is 19%

Megatrend and thematic drivers
Megatrends include Renewable Energy Transition. Themes include Wind Energy Development, Solar Energy Generation, and Battery Storage & Grid Modernization.

Weak multi-year price returns
2Y Excs Rtn is -20%, 3Y Excs Rtn is -47%

Debt is significant
Net D/ENet Debt/Equity. Debt net of cash. Negative indicates net cash. Equity is taken as the Market Capitalization is 88%

Weak revenue growth
Rev Chg 3Y AvgRevenue Change % averaged over trailing 3 years is -1.2%, Rev Chg QQuarterly Revenue Change % is -5.1%

Not cash flow generative
FCF/Rev LTMFree Cash Flow / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is -53%

Key risks
XEL key risks include [1] significant and escalating wildfire liabilities stemming from recent major incidents and [2] a heavy debt load creating potential liquidity concerns.

0 Attractive yield
Total YieldTotal Yield = Earnings Yield + Dividend Yield, Earnings Yield = Net Income / Market Cap Dividend Yield = Total Dividends / Market Cap is 8.2%, Dividend Yield is 3.1%, ERPEquity Risk Premium (ERP) = Total Yield - Risk Free Rate, Reflects the premium above risk free assets offered by the investment. is 4.4%
1 Attractive cash flow generation
CFO/Rev LTMCash Flow from Operations / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 33%, CFO LTM is 4.8 Bil
2 Low stock price volatility
Vol 12M is 19%
3 Megatrend and thematic drivers
Megatrends include Renewable Energy Transition. Themes include Wind Energy Development, Solar Energy Generation, and Battery Storage & Grid Modernization.
4 Weak multi-year price returns
2Y Excs Rtn is -20%, 3Y Excs Rtn is -47%
5 Debt is significant
Net D/ENet Debt/Equity. Debt net of cash. Negative indicates net cash. Equity is taken as the Market Capitalization is 88%
6 Weak revenue growth
Rev Chg 3Y AvgRevenue Change % averaged over trailing 3 years is -1.2%, Rev Chg QQuarterly Revenue Change % is -5.1%
7 Not cash flow generative
FCF/Rev LTMFree Cash Flow / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is -53%
8 Key risks
XEL key risks include [1] significant and escalating wildfire liabilities stemming from recent major incidents and [2] a heavy debt load creating potential liquidity concerns.

XEL in ETFs

Weight = XEL's share of each fund

SPY0.07%
VOO0.07%
IVV0.07%
VTI0.06%
ITOT0.06%
QQQ0.19%
QQQM0.20%
IWB0.07%
+35 more covered ETFs

Valuation & Metrics

Price Chart

Why The Stock Moved

Qualitative Assessment

AI Analysis | Feedback

Updated on 9/24/2026

Xcel Energy (XEL) stock has lost about 10% since 5/31/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Fiscal Q2 2026 Revenue Miss: Xcel Energy reported a 5.1% year-over-year decline in revenue, totaling $3.12 billion in fiscal Q2 2026 (ended June 30, 2026), which fell below analysts' consensus estimates of $3.54 billion. This revenue shortfall, despite an earnings per share beat, was primarily attributed to lower fuel and commodity costs and milder weather conditions across its service territories.

2. Analyst Downgrades and Price Target Reductions: Several analyst firms revised their outlooks on Xcel Energy, contributing to negative sentiment. Notably, Morgan Stanley cut its price target for XEL from $89 to $83 on September 18, 2026, maintaining an "equal weight" rating. Additionally, UBS downgraded Xcel Energy from "Strong Buy" to "Neutral" on September 21, 2026, while Truist Financial also lowered its price target from $94 to $88 on August 13, 2026. These adjustments likely weighed on the stock's performance.

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Updated on 9/24/2026

Xcel Energy (XEL) stock has lost about 10% since 5/31/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Fiscal Q2 2026 Revenue Miss: Xcel Energy reported a 5.1% year-over-year decline in revenue, totaling $3.12 billion in fiscal Q2 2026 (ended June 30, 2026), which fell below analysts' consensus estimates of $3.54 billion. This revenue shortfall, despite an earnings per share beat, was primarily attributed to lower fuel and commodity costs and milder weather conditions across its service territories.

2. Analyst Downgrades and Price Target Reductions: Several analyst firms revised their outlooks on Xcel Energy, contributing to negative sentiment. Notably, Morgan Stanley cut its price target for XEL from $89 to $83 on September 18, 2026, maintaining an "equal weight" rating. Additionally, UBS downgraded Xcel Energy from "Strong Buy" to "Neutral" on September 21, 2026, while Truist Financial also lowered its price target from $94 to $88 on August 13, 2026. These adjustments likely weighed on the stock's performance.

3. Concerns Regarding Capital Spending Plan and Equity Needs: Xcel Energy's extensive $60 billion capital expenditure plan for fiscal years 2026 through 2030, which includes a projected need for approximately $7 billion in new equity funding, may have raised investor concerns about potential share dilution and increased financial leverage.

4. Macroeconomic Headwinds from Rising Interest Rates: The broader macroeconomic environment, particularly rising interest rates, has pressured utility stocks like Xcel Energy. Higher interest rates increase borrowing costs for Xcel Energy's capital-intensive projects and can make the company's dividend yield less attractive to income-focused investors compared to other fixed-income alternatives.

5. Ongoing Wildfire Liabilities: Lingering wildfire liabilities continue to be a focus for investors. While Xcel Energy settled all Marshall Fire claims for $640 million, and reported increased insurance recoveries benefiting fiscal Q2 2026 earnings, ongoing estimated losses of $460 million (or $503 million including legal costs) for the Smokehouse Creek Fire Complex in Texas introduce an element of financial uncertainty.

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Stock Movement Drivers

Fundamental Drivers

The -10.8% change in XEL stock from 5/31/2026 to 9/26/2026 was primarily driven by a -16.4% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)53120269262026Change
Stock Price ($)78.2869.80-10.8%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)14,78414,616-1.1%
Net Income Margin (%)14.1%15.3%8.0%
P/E Multiple23.419.5-16.4%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)624625-0.2%
Cumulative Contribution-10.8%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

5/31/2026 to 9/26/2026
ReturnCorrelation
XEL-10.8% 
Market (SPY)2.2%-1.2%
Sector (XLU)-10.5%90.3%

Fundamental Drivers

The -14.3% change in XEL stock from 2/28/2026 to 9/26/2026 was primarily driven by a -18.8% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)22820269262026Change
Stock Price ($)81.4769.80-14.3%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)14,66914,616-0.4%
Net Income Margin (%)13.8%15.3%11.1%
P/E Multiple24.119.5-18.8%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)596625-4.6%
Cumulative Contribution-14.3%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

2/28/2026 to 9/26/2026
ReturnCorrelation
XEL-14.3% 
Market (SPY)13.0%6.2%
Sector (XLU)-16.1%86.9%

Fundamental Drivers

The 0.2% change in XEL stock from 8/31/2025 to 9/26/2026 was primarily driven by a 4.7% change in the company's Total Revenues ($ Mil).
(LTM values as of)83120259262026Change
Stock Price ($)69.6669.800.2%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)13,95714,6164.7%
Net Income Margin (%)14.9%15.3%2.9%
P/E Multiple19.719.5-0.8%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)586625-6.2%
Cumulative Contribution0.2%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

8/31/2025 to 9/26/2026
ReturnCorrelation
XEL0.2% 
Market (SPY)20.9%0.9%
Sector (XLU)-3.7%78.3%

Fundamental Drivers

The 36.4% change in XEL stock from 8/31/2023 to 9/26/2026 was primarily driven by a 34.2% change in the company's Net Income Margin (%).
(LTM values as of)83120239262026Change
Stock Price ($)51.1869.8036.4%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)15,23714,616-4.1%
Net Income Margin (%)11.4%15.3%34.2%
P/E Multiple16.319.520.1%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)551625-11.8%
Cumulative Contribution36.4%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

8/31/2023 to 9/26/2026
ReturnCorrelation
XEL36.4% 
Market (SPY)77.8%11.5%
Sector (XLU)37.4%71.0%

Return vs. Risk

Price Returns Compared

 202120222023202420252026Total [1]
Returns
XEL Return4%6%-9%12%14%-4%25%
Peers Return16%-1%-11%19%16%1%42%
S&P 500 Return27%-19%24%23%16%13%105%

Monthly Win Rates [3]
XEL Win Rate50%75%58%58%50%44% 
Peers Win Rate58%60%53%58%63%49% 
S&P 500 Win Rate75%42%67%75%67%56% 

Max Drawdowns [4]
XEL Max Drawdown-14%-25%-22%-24%-11%-15% 
Peers Max Drawdown-12%-26%-27%-13%-13%-16% 
S&P 500 Max Drawdown-5%-25%-10%-8%-19%-9% 


[1] Cumulative total returns since the beginning of 2021
[2] Peers: NEE, SO, DUK, AEP, D. See XEL Returns vs. Peers.
[3] Win Rate = % of calendar months in which monthly returns were positive
[4] Max drawdown represents maximum peak-to-trough decline within a year
[5] 2026 data is for the year up to 9/25/2026 (YTD)

How Low Can It Go

EventXELS&P 500
Summer-Fall 2023 Five Percent Yield Shock
  % Loss-14.5%-9.5%
  % Gain to Breakeven17.0%10.5%
  Time to Breakeven338 days24 days
2022 Inflation Shock & Fed Tightening
  % Loss-12.9%-24.5%
  % Gain to Breakeven14.9%32.4%
  Time to Breakeven29 days427 days
2020 COVID-19 Crash
  % Loss-28.9%-33.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven40.7%50.9%
  Time to Breakeven134 days140 days
2013 Taper Tantrum
  % Loss-12.4%-0.2%
  % Gain to Breakeven14.2%0.2%
  Time to Breakeven190 days1 days
2011 US Debt Ceiling Crisis & European Contagion
  % Loss-11.1%-17.9%
  % Gain to Breakeven12.5%21.8%
  Time to Breakeven21 days123 days
2008-2009 Global Financial Crisis
  % Loss-26.3%-53.4%
  % Gain to Breakeven35.7%114.4%
  Time to Breakeven409 days1085 days

Compare to NEE, SO, DUK, AEP, D

In The Past

Xcel Energy's stock fell -2.1% during the 2025 US Tariff Shock. Such a loss loss requires a 2.2% gain to breakeven.

Preserve Wealth

Limiting losses and compounding gains is essential to preserving wealth.

Asset Allocation

Actively managed asset allocation strategies protect wealth. Learn more.

EventXELS&P 500
2020 COVID-19 Crash
  % Loss-28.9%-33.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven40.7%50.9%
  Time to Breakeven134 days140 days
2008-2009 Global Financial Crisis
  % Loss-26.3%-53.4%
  % Gain to Breakeven35.7%114.4%
  Time to Breakeven409 days1085 days

Compare to NEE, SO, DUK, AEP, D

In The Past

Xcel Energy's stock fell -2.1% during the 2025 US Tariff Shock. Such a loss loss requires a 2.2% gain to breakeven.

Preserve Wealth

Limiting losses and compounding gains is essential to preserving wealth.

Asset Allocation

Actively managed asset allocation strategies protect wealth. Learn more.

About Xcel Energy (XEL)

Xcel Energy (XEL) is a prominent utility company primarily engaged in the generation, transmission, distribution, and sale of electricity and natural gas. The company operates a diverse energy portfolio, generating electricity from sources such as coal, nuclear, natural gas, hydroelectric, solar, and wind, alongside purchasing power from external providers. Simultaneously, Xcel Energy is responsible for the procurement, transportation, and distribution of natural gas to its service areas.

The company's main services include providing reliable electricity and natural gas to a vast customer base. Beyond its core utility operations, Xcel Energy also develops and leases natural gas pipelines, storage, and compression facilities, and makes strategic investments in rental housing projects. Its primary customers are residential, commercial, and industrial clients, totaling approximately 3.7 million electricity customers and 2.1 million natural gas customers across portions of Colorado, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas, and Wisconsin.

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Analogies:

  • Xcel Energy is like AT&T for electricity and natural gas.

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  • Electricity Utility Services: Xcel Energy generates, transmits, distributes, and sells electricity to residential, commercial, and industrial customers.
  • Natural Gas Utility Services: The company purchases, transports, distributes, and sells natural gas to retail customers.
  • Natural Gas Transportation Services: Xcel Energy also provides services for transporting customer-owned natural gas.
  • Natural Gas Infrastructure Services: The company develops and leases natural gas pipelines, along with storage and compression facilities.

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Xcel Energy (XEL) primarily sells electricity and natural gas directly to end-users across several states. Its major customer categories are:

  • Residential customers
  • Commercial customers
  • Industrial customers

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Major suppliers for Xcel Energy include:

  • Vestas Wind Systems A/S (CPH: VWS)
  • Siemens Energy AG (XTRA: ENR)
  • Array Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: ARRY)

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Robert (Bob) Frenzel, Chairman, President and CEO

Bob Frenzel was appointed Chairman, President and CEO of Xcel Energy in August 2021. He joined Xcel Energy in 2016 as Chief Financial Officer. Prior to becoming CEO, he served as President and Chief Operating Officer, leading Xcel Energy's four utility operating companies, as well as its transmission, distribution, and natural gas operations. Before joining Xcel Energy, Frenzel served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for Luminant, a competitive power generating subsidiary of Energy Future Holdings, Inc. At Energy Future Holdings (EFH), he also held the position of Senior Vice President for Corporate Development, Strategy, and Mergers & Acquisitions, where he was responsible for overall corporate and business unit strategy, and identifying priorities for growth, investment, mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures. Earlier in his career, Frenzel was a Vice President at Goldman Sachs in the energy and power group, focusing on strategic and financial transactions, including corporate and asset-level acquisitions and divestitures, and capital-raising activities. He also worked as a Manager and Senior Consultant at Arthur Andersen. Frenzel began his career serving six years in the U.S. Navy as a nuclear engineering officer and weapons officer.

Brian Van Abel, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Brian Van Abel is the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Xcel Energy, leading the company's finance functions. He was promoted to this role on March 31, 2020. Van Abel joined Xcel Energy in 2010. Prior to his appointment as CFO, he served as Senior Vice President of Finance and Corporate Development, where he was responsible for developing the company's short- and long-term financial plans and executing acquisitions and divestitures. He also previously held the role of Vice President and Treasurer, managing the company's capital structure and ensuring sufficient liquidity. Before joining Xcel Energy, Van Abel spent four years in management consulting in the retail banking sector, advising financial institutions on various engagements.

Amanda Rome, Executive Vice President, Group President - Utilities, and Chief Customer Officer

Amanda Rome is the Executive Vice President, Group President - Utilities, and Chief Customer Officer, responsible for the strategic direction of Xcel Energy's four operating companies and its customer-facing organizations. Rome joined Xcel Energy in 2015 as the lead regulatory attorney for the company's northern jurisdictions. She previously served as Chief Legal and Compliance Officer, overseeing the law department and overall legal strategy, and as Vice President, Deputy General Counsel, leading the company's regulatory, commercial, and environmental groups. Prior to her time at Xcel Energy, Rome worked as a federal court litigator at Winston & Strawn in Chicago and Faegre Baker Daniels in Minneapolis.

Ryan Long, Executive Vice President, Chief Legal and Compliance Officer

Ryan Long serves as Executive Vice President, Chief Legal and Compliance Officer, overseeing Xcel Energy's legal and corporate compliance group. He joined Xcel Energy in 2015. Before stepping into his current role, he served as Vice President and Deputy General Counsel, managing legal teams responsible for federal and state regulatory, environmental, and real estate matters. Prior to joining Xcel Energy, Long worked as a litigator for Faegre Baker Daniels in Minneapolis and Cravath Swaine & Moore in New York City.

Tim O'Connor, Executive Vice President, Chief Operations Officer

Tim O'Connor was appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer of Xcel Energy in August 2021. In this role, he oversees nuclear generation, energy supply, supply chain, commercial operations, distribution, transmission, and the company's natural gas business. O'Connor joined Xcel Energy in 2007, and prior to his current position, he served as Executive Vice President and Chief Generation Officer since 2020. He is recognized for his contributions to building one of the nation's top-performing nuclear fleets.

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Here are the key risks to Xcel Energy (XEL):

  1. Wildfire Risk and Associated Litigation and Liability: Xcel Energy operates in regions, particularly Colorado and Texas, that are increasingly susceptible to wildfires. These events pose significant operational, financial, and reputational risks. The company is currently facing ongoing litigation related to past wildfires, such as the Marshall and Smokehouse Creek fires, which create substantial financial uncertainty and could lead to significant liabilities. To mitigate this, Xcel Energy is undertaking considerable investments in wildfire prevention and safety measures, including extensive mitigation plans.

  2. Regulatory and Policy Risks Related to Decarbonization and Energy Transition: Xcel Energy is committed to an aggressive clean energy transition, aiming for 100% carbon-free electricity by 2050 and net-zero greenhouse gas emissions from its natural gas business by 2050. This transition necessitates massive capital investments in new renewable generation, transmission infrastructure, and grid modernization. The company's ability to recover these substantial costs and achieve targeted returns is highly dependent on favorable regulatory approvals and consistent policy frameworks across the multiple states it serves. Unfavorable regulatory outcomes, delays in project approvals, or evolving environmental policies could significantly impact its financial performance and growth prospects. There is also a risk of stranded assets, particularly from over-investing in natural gas plants that may conflict with long-term decarbonization goals.

  3. Significant Capital Expenditure Requirements and Financial Risks: Xcel Energy has outlined a substantial capital expenditure program, totaling approximately $45 billion through 2029, primarily focused on clean energy and grid modernization initiatives. Funding this extensive investment plan requires frequent access to capital markets and often involves taking on significant debt. Consequently, the company is exposed to financial risks such as rising interest rates, which can increase borrowing costs and impact profitability, and potential disruptions in capital markets that could hinder its ability to secure necessary financing.

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The clear emerging threat for Xcel Energy is the accelerating adoption of distributed energy resources (DERs), primarily customer-owned rooftop solar panels combined with battery storage systems. This trend allows residential, commercial, and industrial customers to generate and store their own electricity, significantly reducing their reliance on purchasing power from Xcel Energy's grid. This directly impacts Xcel Energy's electricity sales and customer base, potentially leading to decreased revenue and underutilization of its generation, transmission, and distribution assets.

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Xcel Energy (XEL) is expected to experience future revenue growth over the next 2-3 years, driven by several key factors:

  1. Significant Capital Investments and Rate Base Growth: Xcel Energy has outlined ambitious capital investment plans, including approximately $45 billion from 2025-2029 and $60 billion from 2026-2030, aimed at modernizing and expanding its transmission, distribution, electric generation, and renewable energy infrastructure. These strategic investments enable the company to grow its rate base, which, as a regulated utility, allows it to recover costs and earn a return through approved rate increases, directly contributing to revenue growth.
  2. Expanding Customer Base: Xcel Energy continues to see consistent growth in its customer base for both electric and natural gas services. For example, in the second quarter of 2025, the electric customer base increased by 1% year-over-year, and the natural gas customer base improved by 0.9%. In 2025, electric customer volume grew by 0.7%, and natural gas customer volume increased by 0.8%. This organic expansion in the number of customers served translates into higher sales volumes and, consequently, increased revenue.
  3. Rising Electricity Demand, Particularly from Data Centers: A significant driver of future electric sales growth is the increasing demand from data centers. Xcel Energy has doubled its data center contracted capacity target to 6 GW by the end of 2027, up from an earlier target of 3 GW. This surge in demand from high-load data center facilities represents a substantial opportunity for increased electricity sales.
  4. Overall Electric Sales Volume Growth: Beyond specific customer segments, Xcel Energy anticipates general growth in its electric sales volumes. The company projects weather-normalized retail electric sales growth of approximately 3% in 2026, which is expected to contribute significantly to revenue.
  5. Natural Gas Sales Volume Growth: The company also forecasts an increase in natural gas sales volumes, with an expected growth of 1% in 2026. This contributes to the overall revenue stream from its regulated natural gas utility segment.

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Share Repurchases

  • Xcel Energy has not made significant share repurchases in recent years, with fiscal years ending December 2021 to 2025 showing an average buyback yield of -1.6%, indicating net issuance.
  • Quarterly data reveals very small amounts of share buybacks, such as $22.50K in March 2025, $51.33K in March 2023, and $159.98K in March 2022.

Share Issuance

  • Xcel Energy's shares outstanding have been increasing, with 0.589 billion shares in 2025, representing a 4.62% increase from 2024.
  • The company's share count increased by 5% in the first nine months of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, reflecting accelerating dilution.
  • As of February 26, 2026, Xcel Energy registered 7,484,917 shares of its common stock for issuance under its Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan.

Capital Expenditures

  • Xcel Energy has a five-year capital investment plan for 2026-2030 totaling $60 billion, a significant increase from its previous forecast of $45 billion.
  • The primary focus of these capital expenditures is on modernizing and expanding the grid, integrating clean energy, and enhancing reliability, including investments in approximately 11,000 MW of wind capacity, major solar projects, and 1,500 miles of new transmission lines. Specifically, $23.4 billion is allocated for electric generation, $15.4 billion for electric transmission, and $13.9 billion for electric distribution.
  • Historical capital expenditures show a ramp-up, from -$4.24 billion in fiscal year 2021 to -$7.36 billion in 2024, with nearly $12 billion invested in 2025 as the largest annual total.

Better Bets vs. Xcel Energy (XEL)

Peer Outperformance in Multi-Utilities

XEL has trailed 59% of its 17 Multi-Utilities peers over 5Y. Among the peers that beat it are OGE and CNP. Multi-Utilities ranks 4th of 6 industries in Utilities by median 5Y return. The sector’s gains have largely come from elsewhere.
Share of Multi-Utilities constituents that XEL has outperformed, by holding period. Peers without a full price history over a given window are excluded from that window.
1Y
18%
of 17 industry peers · -9.2% return
3Y
41%
of 17 industry peers · 35.0% return
5Y
41%
of 17 industry peers · 31.7% return
Multi-Utilities peers with revenue growth within 4pp of XEL's that beat it on at least 2 of 3 windows, and by at least 20pp over 5Y. Growth is matched by construction, so the gap is largely a re-rating gap. The multiple column is the context for it.
Ticker Name Rev Growth 3Y Avg P/E 1Y3Y5Y 5Y Gap
XEL Xcel Energy -1.2% 19.5x -9.2%35.0%31.7% —
OGE OGE Energy 1.6% 19.8x 1.6%51.5%66.0% +34pp
CNP CenterPoint Energy 1.5% 21.7x -2.9%46.5%64.4% +33pp
Price returns, excluding dividends. P/E shown for context only and not used for matching.
Median price return by industry across the Utilities sector, ranked by 5Y. Multi-Utilities is XEL's own industry. Use this to see which corners of the sector have carried the returns.
Industry Names 1Y med3Y med5Y med Top 3 by 5Y
Independent Power Producers & Energy Traders 5 -23.1%106.1%170.6% HNRG 477% · OKLO 288% · NRG 171%
Gas Utilities 10 -2.3%44.5%39.4% ATO 103% · NJR 74% · NFG 70%
Electric Utilities 24 -0.7%40.2%38.6% VST 782% · GNE 161% · ETR 137%
Multi-Utilities ← 18 -1.0%39.4%38.4% NI 94% · MDU 94% · ED 69%
Water Utilities 11 3.7%6.8%-12.5% CWCO 165% · HTO 8% · AWR 6%
Renewable Electricity 5 -50.0%-67.7%-94.6% ORA 40% · CWEN 26% · AGIG -95%
Median of constituents with a full price history over each window. Top names are unfiltered by size in this render.

Latest Trefis Analyses

Recent Active Movers

Peer Comparisons

Peers to compare with:

Financials

XELNEESODUKAEPDMedian
NameXcel Ene.NextEra .Southern Duke Ene.American.Dominion. 
Mkt Price69.8076.0882.88113.35118.3560.6879.48
Mkt Cap43.6158.594.288.364.453.476.4
Rev LTM14,61628,70130,17833,25022,79118,11925,746
Op Inc LTM3,0668,1357,3058,8505,3405,0966,322
FCF LTM-7,6923,048-3,269-4,274-2,437-6,342-3,772
FCF 3Y Avg-4,3683,658-1,668-1,953-2,136-6,298-2,045
CFO LTM4,77113,80310,65111,5627,6945,9089,172
CFO 3Y Avg4,79813,1889,50811,6746,7665,3798,137

Growth & Margins

XELNEESODUKAEPDMedian
NameXcel Ene.NextEra .Southern Duke Ene.American.Dominion. 
Rev Chg LTM4.7%10.8%6.4%6.3%10.3%19.0%8.3%
Rev Chg 3Y Avg-1.2%2.3%3.1%4.6%5.5%7.3%3.9%
Rev Chg Q-5.1%12.4%0.1%1.1%7.0%17.6%4.1%
QoQ Delta Rev Chg LTM-1.1%3.0%0.0%0.3%1.6%3.8%0.9%
Op Inc Chg LTM22.1%6.4%1.5%5.4%4.1%12.6%5.9%
Op Inc Chg 3Y Avg8.6%-3.4%16.2%10.7%15.2%10.4%10.6%
Op Mgn LTM21.0%28.3%24.2%26.6%23.4%28.1%25.4%
Op Mgn 3Y Avg19.6%29.2%25.4%26.4%23.0%27.7%25.9%
QoQ Delta Op Mgn LTM1.1%0.5%0.0%0.7%-1.1%-0.6%0.3%
CFO/Rev LTM32.6%48.1%35.3%34.8%33.8%32.6%34.3%
CFO/Rev 3Y Avg34.0%49.2%33.6%37.1%32.2%34.0%34.0%
FCF/Rev LTM-52.6%10.6%-10.8%-12.9%-10.7%-35.0%-11.8%
FCF/Rev 3Y Avg-30.5%13.8%-5.7%-6.0%-10.0%-39.7%-8.0%

Valuation

XELNEESODUKAEPDMedian
NameXcel Ene.NextEra .Southern Duke Ene.American.Dominion. 
Mkt Cap43.6158.594.288.364.453.476.4
P/S3.05.53.12.72.82.93.0
P/Op Inc14.219.512.910.012.110.512.5
P/EBIT12.515.211.18.911.39.611.2
P/E19.517.020.216.820.521.119.9
P/CFO9.111.58.87.68.49.08.9
Total Yield8.2%9.0%8.2%9.8%8.1%8.3%8.3%
Dividend Yield3.1%3.1%3.3%3.8%3.2%3.5%3.2%
FCF Yield 3Y Avg-10.1%2.4%-1.6%-2.1%-3.6%-12.8%-2.8%
D/E0.90.70.81.00.81.00.9
Net D/E0.90.70.81.00.81.00.8

Returns

XELNEESODUKAEPDMedian
NameXcel Ene.NextEra .Southern Duke Ene.American.Dominion. 
1M Rtn-8.8%-8.2%-6.9%-6.2%-3.6%-7.8%-7.4%
3M Rtn-14.4%-13.4%-14.0%-10.9%-14.0%-11.7%-13.7%
6M Rtn-9.2%-15.5%-11.8%-11.3%-7.7%1.7%-10.2%
12M Rtn-9.2%3.2%-9.4%-4.6%11.8%4.9%-0.7%
3Y Rtn35.0%38.7%39.0%40.9%73.8%53.7%39.9%
1M Excs Rtn-10.3%-9.9%-8.5%-7.9%-4.9%-9.3%-8.9%
3M Excs Rtn-19.7%-18.7%-19.3%-16.2%-19.3%-17.0%-19.0%
6M Excs Rtn-28.6%-34.8%-31.2%-30.4%-26.3%-17.9%-29.5%
12M Excs Rtn-24.3%-10.6%-26.0%-21.8%-4.6%-13.0%-17.4%
3Y Excs Rtn-47.1%-52.4%-46.8%-41.4%-12.0%-30.2%-44.1%

Financials

Segment Financials

Revenue by Segment
$ Mil20252024202320222021
Regulated Electric utility12,16111,14911,44812,12511,207
Regulated Natural Gas utility2,4782,2522,6483,0822,134
Non-segment revenues5764115107 
Intersegment revenue-27-24-5-4-4
Other    94
Total14,66913,44114,20615,31013,431


Operating Income by Segment
$ Mil2002200120001997
Other715-65  
Electric Utility479535341 
Gas Utility998258 
NRG-3,464265183 
eprime 9-6 
Xcel Energy International  29 
Electric   456
Gas   50
Total-2,172825605507


Net Income by Segment
$ Mil20252024202320222021
Regulated Electric utility1,8701,8461,6861,6311,478
Regulated Natural Gas utility256237219264231
Other    -112
Total2,1262,0831,9051,8951,597


Assets by Segment
$ Mil1997
Electric4,845
Gas675
Total5,520


Price Behavior

Price Behavior
Market Price$69.80 
Market Cap ($ Bil)43.6 
First Trading Date09/24/1985 
Distance from 52W High-14.9% 
   50 Days200 Days
DMA Price$76.19$77.00
DMA Trendindeterminatedown
Distance from DMA-8.4%-9.4%
 3M1YR
Volatility18.1%18.8%
Downside Capture67.8910.12
Upside Capture-25.47-3.02
Correlation (SPY)3.7%1.7%
XEL Betas & Captures as of 8/31/2026

 1M2M3M6M1Y3Y
Beta0.02-0.05-0.160.04-0.020.15
Up Beta-0.24-0.320.01-0.06-0.040.17
Down Beta-0.350.910.010.220.120.21
Up Capture-8%-33%-32%-5%-0%4%
Bmk +ve Days10213268138427
Stock +ve Days10193263131402
Down Capture75%6%-21%15%-17%10%
Bmk -ve Days11213259113324
Stock -ve Days11233264119345

[1] Upside and downside betas calculated using positive and negative benchmark daily returns respectively
Based On 1-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with XEL
XEL-7.7%18.9%-0.56-
Sector ETF (XLU)-6.5%15.3%-0.6481.9%
Equity (SPY)17.7%13.0%0.982.0%
Gold (GLD)14.7%29.3%0.4615.0%
Commodities (DBC)44.3%20.7%1.66-8.3%
Real Estate (VNQ)4.5%13.6%0.0751.8%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)-25.9%44.8%-0.54-2.1%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How
Based On 5-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with XEL
XEL5.1%20.9%0.16-
Sector ETF (XLU)6.7%17.4%0.2478.8%
Equity (SPY)13.3%17.2%0.5926.0%
Gold (GLD)19.2%18.8%0.8314.7%
Commodities (DBC)10.8%19.6%0.432.8%
Real Estate (VNQ)0.9%18.9%-0.0650.6%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)12.2%52.6%0.418.4%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How
Based On 10-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with XEL
XEL8.8%21.7%0.36-
Sector ETF (XLU)8.2%19.2%0.3685.6%
Equity (SPY)15.5%17.9%0.7340.5%
Gold (GLD)12.1%16.4%0.6115.1%
Commodities (DBC)8.5%18.1%0.386.2%
Real Estate (VNQ)4.8%20.7%0.1960.3%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)63.8%66.2%1.037.1%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How

Short Interest

Short Interest: As Of Date9152026
Short Interest: Shares Quantity41.4 Mil
Short Interest: % Change Since 83120260.4%
Average Daily Volume5.9 Mil
Days-to-Cover Short Interest7.0 days
Basic Shares Quantity625.0 Mil
Short % of Basic Shares6.6%

Earnings Returns History

Updated 9/1/2026
Expand for More
 Forward Returns
Earnings Date1D Returns5D Returns21D Returns
7/30/2026-0.0%-1.6%-2.3%
4/30/2026-0.4%-3.0%-7.9%
2/5/2026-0.3%3.8%7.9%
10/30/2025-0.5%-1.3%-3.1%
7/31/20250.0%-0.3%-1.4%
4/24/2025-1.8%0.2%-0.8%
2/6/2025-0.8%1.9%3.3%
10/31/2024-0.2%-0.9%6.6%
...
SUMMARY STATS   
# Positive10129
# Negative131114
Median Positive0.9%2.5%3.8%
Median Negative-0.5%-1.6%-2.7%
Max Positive3.4%4.7%9.7%
Max Negative-2.2%-3.0%-8.5%
Collapse to Preview
 Forward Returns
Earnings Date1D Returns5D Returns21D Returns
7/30/2026-0.0%-1.6%-2.3%
4/30/2026-0.4%-3.0%-7.9%
2/5/2026-0.3%3.8%7.9%
10/30/2025-0.5%-1.3%-3.1%
7/31/20250.0%-0.3%-1.4%
4/24/2025-1.8%0.2%-0.8%
2/6/2025-0.8%1.9%3.3%
10/31/2024-0.2%-0.9%6.6%
8/1/20241.1%-1.6%3.6%
4/25/2024-1.9%-2.2%-2.3%
1/25/20240.8%3.8%-1.4%
10/27/20230.7%4.7%4.6%
7/27/20230.0%-2.5%-8.4%
4/27/2023-0.5%-1.6%-8.5%
1/26/2023-0.5%1.1%-4.9%
10/27/20223.4%3.0%9.7%
7/28/20221.3%3.3%3.8%
4/28/2022-2.2%-2.8%1.9%
1/27/20221.3%0.8%-2.3%
7/29/2021-0.8%0.7%-0.1%
4/29/20211.0%1.4%0.5%
1/28/20210.6%-0.1%-7.1%
10/29/2020-1.0%4.2%-4.8%
SUMMARY STATS   
# Positive10129
# Negative131114
Median Positive0.9%2.5%3.8%
Median Negative-0.5%-1.6%-2.7%
Max Positive3.4%4.7%9.7%
Max Negative-2.2%-3.0%-8.5%

SEC Filings

Expand for More
Report DateFiling DateFiling
06/30/202607/30/202610-Q
03/31/202604/30/202610-Q
12/31/202502/25/202610-K
09/30/202510/30/202510-Q
06/30/202507/31/202510-Q
03/31/202504/24/202510-Q
12/31/202402/27/202510-K
09/30/202410/31/202410-Q
06/30/202408/01/202410-Q
03/31/202404/25/202410-Q
12/31/202302/21/202410-K
09/30/202310/27/202310-Q
06/30/202307/27/202310-Q
03/31/202304/27/202310-Q
12/31/202202/23/202310-K
09/30/202210/27/202210-Q
Collapse to Preview
Report DateFiling DateFiling
06/30/202607/30/202610-Q
03/31/202604/30/202610-Q
12/31/202502/25/202610-K
09/30/202510/30/202510-Q
06/30/202507/31/202510-Q
03/31/202504/24/202510-Q
12/31/202402/27/202510-K
09/30/202410/31/202410-Q
06/30/202408/01/202410-Q
03/31/202404/25/202410-Q
12/31/202302/21/202410-K
09/30/202310/27/202310-Q
06/30/202307/27/202310-Q
03/31/202304/27/202310-Q
12/31/202202/23/202310-K
09/30/202210/27/202210-Q
06/30/202207/28/202210-Q
03/31/202204/28/202210-Q
12/31/202102/23/202210-K
09/30/202110/28/202110-Q
06/30/202107/29/202110-Q
03/31/202104/29/202110-Q
12/31/202002/17/202110-K
09/30/202010/29/202010-Q
06/30/202007/31/202010-Q
03/31/202005/07/202010-Q
12/31/201902/21/202010-K
09/30/201910/25/201910-Q

Insider Activity

Updated 7/31/2026
Expand for More
#OwnerTitleHoldingActionFiling DatePriceSharesTransacted
Value
Value of
Held Shares
Form
1Long, Ryan JEVP, Chief Legal andDirectSell304202682.9180066,3281,638,376Form
2Rome, Amanda JEVP, Group President, UtilitieDirectSell304202683.6115,9691,335,1684,008,021Form
Collapse to Preview
#OwnerTitleHoldingActionFiling DatePriceSharesTransacted
Value
Value of
Held Shares
Form
1Long, Ryan JEVP, Chief Legal andDirectSell304202682.9180066,3281,638,376Form
2Rome, Amanda JEVP, Group President, UtilitieDirectSell304202683.6115,9691,335,1684,008,021Form

Investor Activity (13F)

Updated Sep 27, 2026
13F holdings as of Mar 31, 2026 (Q1 2026)

Active managers (13F portfolio over $250M, at least 3 holdings) with a position over $5M that is either over 10% of their portfolio or held in a concentrated book of 50 or fewer total positions. Index/ETF, sovereign, bank, community-bank and charitable/donor-advised filers are excluded.

Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Electron Capital Partners, LLC$152.4 Mil7.2%44Hold13F
Bruce & Co., Inc.$14.7 Mil4.2%41TRIM -5.1%13F
Sourcerock Group LLC$24.4 Mil1.0%39Hold13F
Resolution Capital Ltd$6.5 Mil0.1%40TRIM -5.4%13F
Active Manager
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Resolution Capital Ltd$6.5 Mil0.1%40TRIM -5.4%13F
Bruce & Co., Inc.$14.7 Mil4.2%41TRIM -5.1%13F
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Electron Capital Partners, LLC$152.4 Mil7.2%44Hold13F
Sourcerock Group LLC$24.4 Mil1.0%39Hold13F
Bruce & Co., Inc.$14.7 Mil4.2%41TRIM -5.1%13F
Resolution Capital Ltd$6.5 Mil0.1%40TRIM -5.4%13F

XEL Trade Sentinel


Stock Conviction

Constructive

CONVICTION RATIONALE

Xcel is executing a historic, multi-year investment plan driven by contracted demand from data centers, which underpins a 9-plus percent average earnings per share growth target through 2030. While this requires significant capital and creates near-term cash flow pressure, management has a strong record of delivering on its targets and securing the required regulatory approvals to monetize these investments.

STOCK ARCHETYPE
Regulated Utility

Revenue = (Approved Rate Base * Allowed Return on Equity) + Pass-Through Fuel/Operating Costs Achieving constructive outcomes in regulatory rate cases to expand the rate base and earn the allowed ROE on new capital investments.

Looking for high-conviction positions with a better risk/reward profile? See what's currently in the Trefis High Quality Portfolio.
INVESTMENT THESIS
Can data center demand fuel a decade of superior earnings growth?

Evidence suggests yes; Xcel has secured over 2 gigawatts of new data center load, fueling a $60 billion investment plan.

Mechanism: This capital plan is designed to drive 11% annualized rate base growth, which management projects will deliver 9-plus percent average earnings per share growth through 2030.
Supporting Evidence:
  • Management targets 6 gigawatts of contracted data center capacity by 2027.
  • A $60 billion five-year capital plan is in place.
  • The plan is projected to drive 11% annualized rate base growth.
  • Management projects 9-plus percent average earnings per share growth through 2030.
  • Weather-normalized retail electric sales are forecast to grow approximately 3% in 2026.
PRIMARY RISK
Can regulators and the balance sheet support the growth?

The massive investment plan is causing severe cash burn, with free cash flow at negative $7.7 billion, requiring supportive regulators and capital markets to fund the growth without destroying shareholder value.

Mechanism: An adverse rate case decision, particularly in Colorado, would strand capital and break the earnings conversion model.
Supporting Evidence:
  • Trailing-twelve-month free cash flow is negative $7.7 billion.
  • Capital expenditure is 85.3% of trailing-twelve-month revenue.
  • Share count increased 13.4% over the last three years.
  • Higher interest expense reduced Q2 earnings by $0.12 per share.
  • An analyst note cited regulatory pushback on returns in Colorado.
Key KPI Watchlist
KPI Status Rationale
Weather-Normalized Retail Electric Sales Growth1.5% year-over-year for the three months ended June 30, 2026 - StableWeather-normalized retail electric sales growth remains positive, with year-to-date growth of 2.1%. While the most recent quarter showed a sequential slowdown, management reaffirmed its full-year 2026 forecast for sales to increase approximately 3%, implying an expected re-acceleration in the second half of the year.
Capital Investment Plan & Implied Rate Base GrowthA $60 billion 5-year base investment plan, supplemented by a pipeline of $10-plus billion in incremental opportunities. - AcceleratingThe capital plan is the primary driver of future earnings, with the base plan implying an 11% annualized rate base growth. The consistent conversion of the incremental pipeline, fueled by data center demand and regional transmission needs, provides visibility for growth acceleration. Management noted it has already executed on its original incremental pipeline and sees more opportunities.
Capital InvestmentOver $6 billion (Year-to-date as of June 30, 2026)Represents spending on new infrastructure, which grows the company's rate base. Rate base growth is the primary driver of future earnings for a regulated utility.
Contracted Data Center CapacityOver 2 gigawatts (As of February 2026)Quantifies a key source of future large-scale electricity demand, providing visibility into a significant growth driver that requires substantial new generation and transmission investment.
Core Investment Debate

Contracted Growth vs. Financing Strain

BULL VIEW

Bulls focus on the 20-plus gigawatt large load pipeline and management's 21-year record of meeting guidance, betting execution will convert capital spending into high-quality earnings.

CORE TENSION

Can the 11% targeted rate base growth from new projects overcome the rising financing costs that drove the negative stock reaction to the last earnings report?


PREVAILING SENTIMENT
CAUTIOUSLY BULLISH

The latest evidence favors the bulls. Management reaffirmed its full-year guidance and is on track to meet its 2026 data center contracting goals.

BEAR VIEW

Bears see the negative $7.7 billion free cash flow and rising interest costs, fearing that any regulatory pushback or execution slip will make the growth too expensive to fund.

Next 6 months: Risks and Catalysts
Timeline Event & Metric To Watch
the third quarter of 2026
Adverse Colorado Rate Case Rulings
Watch: Final CPUC orders on allowed ROE, equity ratio, and recovery of specific capital and operating costs.
the fourth quarter of 2026
Unfavorable New Mexico Rate Decision
Watch: Final NMPRC order, specifically the approved revenue increase, ROE, and equity ratio versus the company's request.
10/29/2026
Peer Dominion Energy Earnings
Watch: Peer Dominion Energy (D) is scheduled to report earnings.
11/5/2026
Peer Duke Energy Earnings
Watch: Peer Duke Energy (DUK) is scheduled to report earnings.
November 2026
Minnesota Gas Rate Case Decision
Watch: A MPUC decision is expected in the 2025 Minnesota Natural Gas Rate Case.
by the end of this year
Failure to Meet Data Center Target
Watch: Company announcements of new, signed Electric Service Agreements (ESAs) for large data center loads.
No set date
Negative Weather Impact on Earnings
Watch: Weather reports for key service territories (Colorado, Minnesota, Texas) during peak cooling and heating seasons.
Key Events in Last 6 Months
Date Event Stock Impact
2026-08-25
Analyst Highlights AI Demand Driver
Details: An analyst note on August 25 stated Xcel Energy is well positioned for AI-driven energy demand, citing its capital plan and major clean energy contracts with customers like Alphabet.
+0.5%
$76.71 -> $77.06
2026-07-30
Q2 Earnings Report and Stock Drop
Details: Reported Q2 2026 ongoing earnings of $0.93 per share, up from $0.75 in Q2 2025. Despite the beat, the stock had a -1.0% two-day reaction.
-0.7%
$78.12 -> $77.58
2026-06-01
Minnesota Electric Rate Case Decision
Details: In June 2026, the MPUC issued a verbal decision in the 2024 rate case, approving an estimated rate increase over two years.
-2.1%
$78.28 -> $76.67
2026-05-01
South Dakota Rate Case Settled
Details: The SDPUC approved a settlement agreement for NSP-Minnesota's electric rate case, resulting in a net annual rate increase. New rates became effective July 1, 2026.
-2.1%
$81.67 -> $79.92
2026-04-30
Q1 Earnings Beat and Positive Reaction
Details: Reported Q1 2026 ongoing earnings of $0.91 per share, up from $0.84 in Q1 2025. The stock reacted positively, rising 5.0% over two days around the announcement.
+4.8%
$77.61 -> $81.31
2026-03-01
Minnesota Wind Project Filing
Details: NSP-Minnesota filed for approval of recommended projects to acquire 1,200 MW of wind assets to replace capacity associated with the retiring Sherco coal facilities.
+0.4%
$81.58 -> $81.90
Risk Management
Position Sizing

5% - 7%

NORMAL POSITION

Sizing is volatility-based: XEL trades at roughly 22% annualized options-implied volatility versus about 13% for the S&P 500 (1.6x the market), around the 54th percentile of its own trailing year. A 5% - 7% position keeps a single-name swing of that size within a diversified portfolio's risk budget.

Diversification Alternatives
NEE - NextEra Energy
Best-in-Class Operator

Its FPL utility boasts residential bills approximately 30% below the national average.

Core Thesis: Invest in a more efficient, higher-margin utility also capturing significant large load growth with less financial strain.
SO - a business partner
Peer-Scale Competitor

a business partner provides exposure to the same data center growth theme but in a different geography. It has also secured massive contracts, including a 3.2 gigawatt deal with a business partner.

Core Thesis: Diversify geographic and regulatory risk while maintaining exposure to the utility data center build-out theme.
How Is The Market Pricing XEL?

A regulated utility in a heavy investment cycle, converting massive capital expenditures into rate base growth to serve accelerating demand from data centers and electrification.

Xcel Energy is executing its largest-ever capital plan to modernize its grid and build new generation to meet strong demand, particularly from data centers. This investment is designed to grow its regulated rate base, the core driver of earnings. Success hinges on securing constructive outcomes in frequent rate cases to ensure timely recovery of these investments and earn an approved return.

What will confirm the thesis

Favorable rate case settlements or decisions, announcements of new large load/data center contracts, and on-budget completion of major capital projects.

What will damage the thesis

Negative rate case outcomes (cost disallowances, lower-than-requested ROE), major project delays or cost overruns, or significant wildfire liabilities exceeding insurance coverage.

Noise: Real but irrelevant to thesis

Quarterly earnings fluctuations due to weather, which are often normalized or addressed through regulatory mechanisms over time.

Repricing Catalyst

Successful execution of the multi-billion dollar capital plan and securing constructive outcomes in a series of pending rate cases across its jurisdictions, which would validate its earnings growth trajectory.

What XEL Makes & Who Pays
TTM figures based on fiscal year 2025 filings (the latest reported segment data)
Regulated Electric utility
$12.2B TTM (83% of Total)
What It Is

Generates, transmits, and distributes electricity to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. It also engages in wholesale sales and transmission services.

Who Pays & How

Residential, commercial, and industrial customers pay for electricity to power homes, businesses, and industrial operations. Customers choose Xcel as it is the regulated monopoly provider in its designated service territories.

Rates are set through filings with state and federal regulatory commissions, designed to recover plant investment, operating costs, and an allowed return on investment. Various riders and recovery mechanisms exist for specific costs like fuel, transmission, and conservation programs.
Competition
Peers include NextEra Energy (NEE), Southern Company (SO), Duke Energy (DUK), American Electric Power (AEP), and Dominion Energy (D).
For example, NextEra Energy has higher TTM revenue growth (10.8% vs 4.7%) and operating margin (28.3% vs 21%).
The company operates as a regulated monopoly within its established service territories, creating high barriers to entry.
Regulated Natural Gas utility
$2.5B TTM (17% of Total)
What It Is

Transports and distributes natural gas to residential and commercial customers for heating and other purposes.

Who Pays & How

Residential and commercial customers pay for natural gas, primarily for heating. As the regulated provider, customers in its service area rely on Xcel for gas service.

Rates are regulated by state commissions and are designed to recover the cost of purchased gas, transportation, and an allowed return on infrastructure investment. Mechanisms like Purchased Gas Adjustments are used to pass through commodity costs.
Competition
Peers are primarily other multi-utilities like Dominion Energy (D) and Duke Energy (DUK).
The company operates as a regulated monopoly within its established service territories.
XEL Evolution: Price Return by Era
2021-2025 · Stable Regulated Operations
+32%
Over the past five years, Xcel's revenue has been dominated by its Regulated Electric utility segment, while the Regulated Natural Gas segment provided a smaller, more volatile revenue stream influenced by commodity prices and weather.
Market Appears To Be Acting Against Core Thesis
Price structure is in a downtrend. Multiple SMA levels broken and declining. Thesis requires reclaiming 200D before any bull case is credible. Relative to SPY: Significantly underperforming and deteriorating. Potential evidence of capital being actively rotating away. Volume and momentum are deeply bearish. The sustained distribution is evident across multiple volume metrics. Earnings history is mildly cautionary. The reaction or drift are negative, and the market is beginning to push back on the thesis.
① Structure
-4
Structural pillar score (-4 to +4). Driven by trend regime, SMA cross events, proximity to 52W high, and relative strength vs SPY.
② Volume / Momentum
-3
Volume/Momentum pillar score (-4 to +4). Driven by institutional footprint score, OBV divergence, and momentum character.
③ Catalyst
-1
Catalyst pillar score (-4 to +4). Driven by earnings day reaction, 20D post-earnings drift, and post-earnings volume character.
Combined Score
-8 / 12
1 Price Structure & Trend Downtrend · Death Cross ▾
2 Momentum Deteriorating ▾
3 Relative Strength vs. SPY Strong Underperformance ▾
4 Institutional Footprint & Volume Mild Distribution ▾
5 Volatility Normal ▾
6 Key Price Levels Range · Vol Falling ▾
7 Earnings Reaction History Consistent Pressure ▾
8 How the Verdict Is Derived Three Pillars ▾
Core Cache Last Updated: 9/26/2026