American Water Works (NYSE:AWK) Stock

American Water Works

American Water Works is the largest investor-owned us water and wastewater utility, serving approximately 3.5 million customers in 16 states. It provides water and wastewater services to residential, commercial, and industrial customers and operates predominantly in regulated markets. The company's nonregulated business is water services for military bases, which operates under long-term contracts with regulated-like returns.

American Water Works Co

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American Water Works Company, Inc. Common Stock

American Water Works Co Inc

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Earnings Scheduled For February 19, 2025

American Water Works's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AWK#NYSE">AWK</a>) short percent of float has risen 9.62% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 4.86 million shares sold short, which is 2.85% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 4.79 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock/">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>American Water Works Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1738763245_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for American Water Works has grown since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to fall in the near-term but traders should be aware that more shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing American Water Works's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, American Water Works's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 3.27%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Short Sellers

Short Ideas

Peering Into American Water Works's Recent Short Interest

JP Morgan analyst Richard Sunderland maintains American Water Works (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AWK#NYSE">AWK</a>) with a Neutral and lowers the price target from $147 to $128.

Price Target

JP Morgan Maintains Neutral on American Water Works, Lowers Price Target to $128

The most oversold stocks in the utilities sector presents an opportunity to buy into undervalued companies.
The RSI is a momentum indicator, which compares a stock&#8217;s strength on days when prices go up to its strength on days when prices go down. When compared to a stock&#8217;s price action, it can give traders a better sense of how a stock may perform in the short term. An asset is typically considered oversold when the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/rsi">RSI is below 30</a>, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Here's the latest list of major oversold players in this sector, having an RSI near or below 30.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Constellation Energy Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CEG#NASDAQ">CEG</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>On Jan. 10, Constellation Energy announced an agreement to acquire electricity generation company Calpine Corp. in a cash and stock deal valued at $16.4 billion. The transaction also entails the assumption of Calpine's debt, bringing the total net purchase price to approximately $26.6 billion.. The company' stock has a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CEG">52-week low of $109.44</a>.</li>
<li>RSI Value: 27.4&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
<li>CEG Price Action: Shares of Constellation Energy fell 8.5% to close at $279.24 on Monday.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro's real-time newsfeed alerted to <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent011425&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">latest CEG news</a>. </li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent011425&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="913" height="827" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/14065342/image-81.png" alt="" class="wp-image-732215" style="width:659px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/14065342/image-81.png 913w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/14065342/image-81-300x272.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/14065342/image-81-768x696.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 913px) 100vw, 913px" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">AES Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AES#NYSE">AES</a>)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</h3>
<ul>
<li>On Dec. 6, AES announced a 2% increase in quarterly dividend. The company's stock fell around 12% over the past five days and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AES">has a 52-week low</a> of $11.57.</li>
<li>RSI Value: 28.9</li>
<li>AES Price Action: Shares of AES fell 2.8% to close at $11.69 on Monday.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro&#8217;s charting tool helped identify the trend in <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent011425&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">AES stock</a>. </li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent011425&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="927" height="833" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/14065406/image-82.png" alt="" class="wp-image-732217" style="width:651px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/14065406/image-82.png 927w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/14065406/image-82-300x270.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/14065406/image-82-768x690.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 927px) 100vw, 927px" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">American Water Works Company Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AWK#NYSE">AWK</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>On Jan. 7, Wells Fargo analyst Jonathan Reeder upgraded American Water Works from Underweight to Equal-Weight and lowered the price target from $133 to $129. The company's stock fell around 6% over the past month and has a 52-week <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AWK">low of $113.34</a>.</li>
<li>RSI Value: 22.7</li>
<li>AWK Price Action: Shares of American Water Works fell 0.1% to close at $121.01 on Monday.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro&#8217;s signals feature notified of a potential <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent011425&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">breakout in AWK shares</a>. </li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent011425&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="882" height="833" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/14065459/image-83.png" alt="" class="wp-image-732219" style="width:572px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/14065459/image-83.png 882w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/14065459/image-83-300x283.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/14065459/image-83-768x725.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 882px) 100vw, 882px" /></a></figure>
Read This Next:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/01/42965686/top-2-industrials-stocks-that-may-fall-off-a-cliff-in-january"> </a>
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Wells Fargo analyst Jonathan Reeder upgrades American Water Works (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AWK#NYSE">AWK</a>) from Underweight to Equal-Weight and lowers the price target from $133 to $129.

Upgrades

Wells Fargo Upgrades American Water Works to Equal-Weight, Lowers Price Target to $129

American Water Works's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AWK#NYSE">AWK</a>) short percent of float has fallen 12.3% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 4.63 million shares sold short, which is 2.71% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 4.19 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock/">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>American Water Works Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1735590617_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for American Water Works has declined since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to rise in the near-term but traders should be aware that less shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing American Water Works's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, American Water Works's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 3.12%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

How Is The Market Feeling About American Water Works?

Cheryl Norton, EVP and COO at American Water Works (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AWK#NYSE">AWK</a>), disclosed an insider sell on November 25, according to a recent SEC filing.
What Happened: According to a Form 4 filing with the <a href="https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/0001410636/000141063624000200//Archives/edgar/data/1410636/000141063624000200/0001410636-24-000200-index.htm">U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission</a> on Monday, Norton sold 4,647 shares of American Water Works. The total transaction value is $642,018.
Tracking the Tuesday's morning session, American Water Works shares are trading at $136.88, showing a up of 0.1%.
<h3>About American Water Works</h3>
American Water Works is the largest investor-owned us water and wastewater utility, serving approximately 3.5 million customers in 16 states. It provides water and wastewater services to residential, commercial, and industrial customers and operates predominantly in regulated markets. The company's nonregulated business is water services for military bases, which operates under long-term contracts with regulated-like returns.
<h3>American Water Works's Economic Impact: An Analysis</h3>
Revenue Growth: Over the 3 months period, American Water Works showcased positive performance, achieving a revenue growth rate of 13.37% as of 30 September, 2024. This reflects a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. As compared to its peers, the revenue growth lags behind its industry peers. The company achieved a growth rate lower than the average among peers in Utilities sector.
Key Insights into Profitability Metrics:
<ul>
<li>
Gross Margin: The company maintains a high gross margin of 62.51%, indicating strong cost management and profitability compared to its peers.
</li>
<li>
Earnings per Share (EPS): American Water Works's EPS is a standout, portraying a positive bottom-line trend that exceeds the industry average with a current EPS of 1.8.
</li>
</ul>
Debt Management: The company faces challenges in debt management with a debt-to-equity ratio higher than the industry average. With a ratio of 1.3, caution is advised due to increased financial risk.
Market Valuation:
<ul>
<li>
Price to Earnings (P/E) Ratio: With a higher-than-average P/E ratio of 27.13, American Water Works's stock is perceived as being overvalued in the market.
</li>
<li>
Price to Sales (P/S) Ratio: A higher-than-average P/S ratio of 5.91 suggests overvaluation in the eyes of investors, considering sales performance.
</li>
<li>
EV/EBITDA Analysis (Enterprise Value to its Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation &amp; Amortization): With an EV/EBITDA ratio of 15.72, the company's market valuation exceeds industry averages.
</li>
</ul>
Market Capitalization: Boasting an elevated market capitalization, the company surpasses industry averages. This signals substantial size and strong market recognition.
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<h3>Uncovering the Importance of Insider Activity</h3>
Emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive approach, considering insider transactions is valuable, but it's crucial to evaluate them in conjunction with other investment factors.
From a legal standpoint, the term "insider" pertains to any officer, director, or beneficial owner holding more than ten percent of a company's equity securities as outlined in Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. This encompasses executives in the c-suite and significant hedge funds. These insiders are mandated to inform the public of their transactions through a Form 4 filing, to be submitted within two business days of the transaction.
A company insider's new purchase is a indicator of their positive anticipation for a rise in the stock.
While insider sells may not necessarily reflect a bearish view and can be motivated by various factors.
<h3>The Insider's Guide to Important Transaction Codes</h3>
In the domain of transactions, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/investing-tools">investors</a> frequently turn their focus to those taking place in the open market, as meticulously outlined in Table I of the Form 4 filing. A P in Box 3 indicates a purchase, while S signifies a sale. Transaction code C signals the conversion of an option, and transaction code A denotes a grant, award, or other acquisition of securities from the company.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/sec/insider-trades/search/index?company_cik=0001410636">Check Out The Full List Of American Water Works's Insider Trades.</a>
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This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Insider Trades

Insider Transaction: Cheryl Norton Sells $642K Worth Of American Water Works Shares

5 analysts have expressed a variety of opinions on American Water Works (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AWK#NYSE">AWK</a>) over the past quarter, offering a diverse set of opinions from bullish to bearish.
The table below summarizes their recent ratings, showcasing the evolving sentiments within the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th align="right">Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Indifferent</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th align="right">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Analysts have set 12-month price targets for American Water Works, revealing an average target of $144.6, a high estimate of $164.00, and a low estimate of $124.00. Observing a downward trend, the current average is 2.74% lower than the prior average price target of $148.67. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1732024895_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Interpreting Analyst Ratings: A Closer Look</h2>
A comprehensive examination of how financial experts perceive American Water Works is derived from recent analyst actions. The following is a detailed summary of key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Gregg Orrill</td>
<td>UBS</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$155.00</td>
<td>$151.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Anthony Crowdell</td>
<td>Mizuho</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$140.00</td>
<td>$131.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Julien Dumoulin-Smith</td>
<td>Jefferies</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Underperform</td>
<td>$124.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ross Fowler</td>
<td>B of A Securities</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Underperform</td>
<td>$140.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Shelby Tucker</td>
<td>RBC Capital</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$164.00</td>
<td>$164.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Analysts adapt their recommendations to changing market conditions and company performance. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their response to recent developments related to American Water Works. This information provides a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Offering a comprehensive view, analysts assess stocks qualitatively, spanning from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey expectations for the relative performance of American Water Works compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts gauge the dynamics of price targets, providing estimates for the future value of American Water Works's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
Assessing these analyst evaluations alongside crucial financial indicators can provide a comprehensive overview of American Water Works's market position. Stay informed and make well-judged decisions with the assistance of our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AWK/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on American Water Works analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Get to Know American Water Works Better</h2>
American Water Works is the largest investor-owned us water and wastewater utility, serving approximately 3.5 million customers in 16 states. It provides water and wastewater services to residential, commercial, and industrial customers and operates predominantly in regulated markets. The company's nonregulated business is water services for military bases, which operates under long-term contracts with regulated-like returns.
<h3>Key Indicators: American Water Works's Financial Health</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: Above industry benchmarks, the company's market capitalization emphasizes a noteworthy size, indicative of a strong market presence.
Positive Revenue Trend: Examining American Water Works's financials over 3 months reveals a positive narrative. The company achieved a noteworthy revenue growth rate of 13.37% as of 30 September, 2024, showcasing a substantial increase in top-line earnings. When compared to others in the Utilities sector, the company faces challenges, achieving a growth rate lower than the average among peers.
Net Margin: The company's net margin is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive net margin of 26.46%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost control.
Return on Equity (ROE): American Water Works's ROE excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 3.41%. This signifies robust financial management and efficient use of shareholder equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): American Water Works's ROA surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 1.11% ROA, the company effectively utilizes its assets for optimal returns.
Debt Management: American Water Works's debt-to-equity ratio stands notably higher than the industry average, reaching 1.3. This indicates a heavier reliance on borrowed funds, raising concerns about financial leverage.
<h2>What Are Analyst Ratings?</h2>
Ratings come from analysts, or specialists within banking and financial systems that report for specific stocks or defined sectors (typically once per quarter for each stock). Analysts usually derive their information from company conference calls and meetings, financial statements, and conversations with important insiders to reach their decisions.
Some analysts publish their predictions for metrics such as growth estimates, earnings, and revenue to provide additional guidance with their ratings. When using analyst ratings, it is important to keep in mind that stock and sector analysts are also human and are only offering their opinions to investors.
If you want to keep track of which analysts are outperforming others, you can view updated analyst ratings along withanalyst success scores in <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.
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Analyst Ratings For American Water Works

UBS analyst Gregg Orrill upgrades American Water Works (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AWK#NYSE">AWK</a>) from Neutral to Buy and raises the price target from $151 to $155.

UBS Upgrades American Water Works to Buy, Raises Price Target to $155

On CNBC's &#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/mad-money-lightning-round">Mad Money Lightning Round</a>,&#8221; Jim Cramer recommended buying Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>).
On Oct. 30, Microsoft reported first-quarter revenue of $65.60 billion, up 16% year-over-year. The total beat a Street consensus estimate of $64.51 billion according to data from Benzinga Pro. The company reported first-quarter earnings per share of $3.30, beating a Street consensus estimate of $3.09 per share.
The &#8220;Mad Money&#8221; host also praised American Water Works Company, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AWK#NYSE">AWK</a>), <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AWK/earnings">calling it &#8220;consistent.&#8221;</a>
On Oct. 30, American Water Works posted mixed results <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AWK/earnings">for the third quarter</a>.
When asked about Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), he said, &#8220;These guys are doing so many things right.&#8221;
Amazon.com recently confirmed a vendor data breach exposing employee contact information, linking the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/11/41927913/amazon-confirms-vendor-data-breach-affecting-2-8m-employee-contacts-adds-to-growing-list-of-moveit-hack-victims">company to the widening MOVEit hack.</a>
When asked about FS KKR Capital Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FSK#NYSE">FSK</a>), he said, &#8220;I do think that overtime you're going to wish that you did start peeling some.&#8221;
On Nov. 13, FSK priced public offering of $600 million 6.125% unsecured notes due 2030.
Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>) is doing &#8220;very, very well,&#8221; Cramer said.
Broadcom will report its fourth quarter and fiscal year 2024 financial results and business outlook on Thursday, Dec, 12, after the closing bell.
When asked about Trump Media &amp; Technology Group Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DJT#NASDAQ">DJT</a>), he said, &#8220;This thing is a very hard stock to value.&#8221;
On Nov. 5, Trump Media &amp; Technology reported a quarterly loss of 10 cents per share, versus a year-ago loss of 30 cents per share.
Cramer said that he was surprised that SoundHound AI, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOUN#NASDAQ">SOUN</a>) stock got as &#8220;crushed&#8221; as it did as the quarter wasn't &#8220;nearly that bad.&#8221;
On Nov. 12, SoundHound reported third-quarter revenue of $25.1 million, beating the consensus estimate of $23.02 million. The company reported an adjusted loss of six cents per share, beating analyst estimates for a loss of seven cents per share, according to Benzinga Pro.
Price Action:
<ul>
<li>American Water Works shares rose 0.01% to settle at $132.44 on Wednesday.</li>
<li>Amazon shares gained 2.5% to close at $214.10.</li>
<li>SoundHound AI shares dipped 17.1% to settle at $6.27 during the session.</li>
<li>Microsoft shares rose 0.5% to close at $425.20 on Wednesday.</li>
<li>Broadcom shares fell 1.5% to settle at $173.58 during the session.</li>
<li>Trump Media shares fell 5.1% to close at $28.93 on Wednesday.</li>
<li>FS KKR Capital shares gained 0.7% to settle at $21.15.</li>
</ul>
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</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Jim Cramer Recommends Microsoft, Praises American Water Works For Being 'Consistent'

Contracts

Kentucky American Water Receives Approval For New Rates From Kentucky Public Service Commission Which Supports $330M In System Investments

American Water Works (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AWK#NYSE">AWK</a>) reported quarterly earnings of $1.80 per share which missed the analyst consensus estimate of $1.83 by 1.64 percent. The company reported quarterly sales of $1.323 billion which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $1.234 billion by 7.21 percent. This is a 13.37 percent increase over sales of $1.167 billion the same period last year.

Earnings Beats

Earnings Misses

American Water Works Q3 2024 GAAP EPS $1.80 Misses $1.83 Estimate, Sales $1.323B Beat $1.234B Estimate

Top Wall Street analysts changed their outlook on these top names. For a complete view of all analyst rating changes, including upgrades and downgrades, please see our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">analyst ratings page</a>.
<ul>
<li>Guggenheim analyst Howard Ma downgraded the rating for Commvault Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVLT#NASDAQ">CVLT</a>) from Buy to Neutral. CommVault shares gained 0.7% to close at $163.91 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CVLT/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Keybanc analyst Jeffrey Hammond downgraded Lennox International Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LII#NYSE">LII</a>) from Overweight to Sector Weight. Lennox shares gained 0.4% to close at $606.64 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/LII/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Benchmark analyst Kurt Hallead downgraded the rating for Noble Corporation plc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NE#NYSE">NE</a>) from Buy to Hold. Noble shares fell 2.7% to close at $34.92 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/NE/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Mizuho analyst Anthony Crowdell downgraded American Water Works Company, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AWK#NYSE">AWK</a>) from Outperform to Neutral but raised the price target from $131 to $140. American Water Works shares gained 1.1% to close at $140.37 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AWK/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Macquarie analyst Robert Stein downgraded the rating for Arcadium Lithium plc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALTM#NYSE">ALTM</a>) from Outperform to Neutral and announced a $5.85 price target. Arcadium Lithium shares fell 0.4% to close at $5.54 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ALTM/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
</ul>
Considering buying LII stock? Here&#8217;s what analysts think: 
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="508" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15091542/image-115-1024x508.png" alt="" class="wp-image-596098" style="width:623px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15091542/image-115-1024x508.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15091542/image-115-300x149.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15091542/image-115-768x381.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15091542/image-115.png 1337w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
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5 analysts have shared their evaluations of American Water Works (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AWK#NYSE">AWK</a>) during the recent three months, expressing a mix of bullish and bearish perspectives.
The table below provides a snapshot of their recent ratings, showcasing how sentiments have evolved over the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Indifferent</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Analysts have set 12-month price targets for American Water Works, revealing an average target of $141.2, a high estimate of $164.00, and a low estimate of $124.00. Witnessing a positive shift, the current average has risen by 0.38% from the previous average price target of $140.67.
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1728993666_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Breaking Down Analyst Ratings: A Detailed Examination</h2>
In examining recent analyst actions, we gain insights into how financial experts perceive American Water Works. The following summary outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Anthony Crowdell</td>
<td>Mizuho</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$140.00</td>
<td>$131.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Julien Dumoulin-Smith</td>
<td>Jefferies</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Underperform</td>
<td>$124.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ross Fowler</td>
<td>B of A Securities</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Underperform</td>
<td>$140.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Shelby Tucker</td>
<td>RBC Capital</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$164.00</td>
<td>$164.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jonathan Reeder</td>
<td>Wells Fargo</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Underweight</td>
<td>$138.00</td>
<td>$127.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Responding to changing market dynamics and company performance, analysts update their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise', or 'Lower' their stance, it signifies their response to recent developments related to American Water Works. This offers insight into analysts' perspectives on the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Providing a comprehensive analysis, analysts offer qualitative assessments, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings reflect expectations for the relative performance of American Water Works compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts navigate through adjustments in price targets, providing estimates for American Water Works's future value. Comparing current and prior targets offers insights into analysts' evolving expectations.</li>
</ul>
To gain a panoramic view of American Water Works's market performance, explore these analyst evaluations alongside essential financial indicators. Stay informed and make judicious decisions using our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AWK/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on American Water Works analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Unveiling the Story Behind American Water Works</h2>
American Water Works is the largest investor-owned us water and wastewater utility, serving approximately 3.5 million customers in 16 states. It provides water and wastewater services to residential, commercial, and industrial customers and operates predominantly in regulated markets. The company's nonregulated business is water services for military bases, which operates under long-term contracts with regulated-like returns.
<h3>Breaking Down American Water Works's Financial Performance</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: With an elevated market capitalization, the company stands out above industry averages, showcasing substantial size and market acknowledgment.
Positive Revenue Trend: Examining American Water Works's financials over 3 months reveals a positive narrative. The company achieved a noteworthy revenue growth rate of 4.74% as of 30 June, 2024, showcasing a substantial increase in top-line earnings. As compared to competitors, the company surpassed expectations with a growth rate higher than the average among peers in the Utilities sector.
Net Margin: American Water Works's net margin excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 24.11%. This signifies efficient cost management and strong financial health.
Return on Equity (ROE): American Water Works's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional ROE, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable ROE of 2.75%, the company showcases efficient use of equity capital and strong financial health.
Return on Assets (ROA): The company's ROA is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROA of 0.89%, the company showcases effective utilization of assets.
Debt Management: American Water Works's debt-to-equity ratio surpasses industry norms, standing at 1.3. This suggests the company carries a substantial amount of debt, posing potential financial challenges.
<h2>The Core of Analyst Ratings: What Every Investor Should Know</h2>
Experts in banking and financial systems, analysts specialize in reporting for specific stocks or defined sectors. Their comprehensive research involves attending company conference calls and meetings, analyzing financial statements, and engaging with insiders to generate what are known as analyst ratings for stocks. Typically, analysts assess and rate each stock once per quarter.
Analysts may supplement their ratings with predictions for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue, offering investors a more comprehensive outlook. However, investors should be mindful that analysts, like any human, can have subjective perspectives influencing their forecasts.
Which Stocks Are Analysts Recommending Now?
Benzinga Edge gives you instant access to all major analyst upgrades, downgrades, and price targets. Sort by accuracy, upside potential, and more. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=be8be9arja3be22bz21&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here to stay ahead of the market</a>.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Mizuho analyst Anthony Crowdell downgrades American Water Works (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AWK#NYSE">AWK</a>) from Outperform to Neutral and raises the price target from $131 to $140.

Mizuho Downgrades American Water Works to Neutral, Raises Price Target to $140

The Company continues to have no indication that its water and wastewater facilities were impacted by this incident. The incident did not affect water quality.

American Water Reactives Systems After Cybersecurity Event

Jefferies analyst Julien Dumoulin-Smith initiates coverage on American Water Works (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AWK#NYSE">AWK</a>) with a Underperform rating and announces Price Target of $124.

Initiation

Jefferies Initiates Coverage On American Water Works with Underperform Rating, Announces Price Target of $124

WIIM

American Water Works shares are trading lower after the company announced it experienced a cybersecurity incident.

The Company currently believes that none of its water or wastewater facilities or operations have been negatively impacted by this incident.
Although the Company is currently unable to predict the full impact of this incident, the Company does not expect the incident will have a material effect on the Company, or its financial condition or results of operations.

American Water Works Says Learned Of Unauthorized Activity Within Its Computer Networks And Systems Due To Cybersecurity Incident; Does Not Expect Any Material Effect On Financial Condition - Filing

Maryland American Water Receives Commission Approval For Acquisition Of Severn Water Company For ~$1.6M

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American Water Charitable Foundation Launches 2025 Water and Environment Grant Program

Incomplete Records Put 20,000 Pennsylvania American Water Customers at Risk of Losing Bill Discount Financial Assistance

California American Water Completes Acquisition of West San Martin Water Works

Pennsylvania American Water Announces Launch of American Water Charitable Foundation 2025 Water and Environment Grant Program

Illinois American Water Announces Launch of American Water Charitable Foundation's 2025 Water and Environment Grant Program

California American Water Completes $4.5M Los Angeles Water System Upgrades

American Water Announces Denise Venuti Free as Vice President External Communications, Michael Chirico and Megan Hannah to Lead Corporate Stakeholder Engagement Strategy

American Water Shares Convenient Ways for Customers to Pay their Water Bill

California American Water Completes $560,000 Water Tank Rehabilitation in Monterey

American Water Continues Partnership with Scholarship America®

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