Sempra (NYSE:SRE) Stock

Sempra

Sempra Energy

Sempra Energy serves one of the largest utility customer bases in the United States. It distributes natural gas and electricity in Southern California and owns 80% of Oncor, a transmission and distribution business in Texas. SoCalGas and San Diego Gas & Electric distribute gas to more than 20 million customers, while Oncor serves more than 10 million Texas customers. Sempra Infrastructure partners, of which Sempra holds a controlling ownership, owns and operates liquefied natural gas facilities in North America and infrastructure in Mexico.

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The Benzinga Stock Whisper Index highlights five stocks seeing increased interest from readers during the week and the reasons why.

Benzinga&#39;s &#39;Stock Whisper&#39; Index: 5 Stocks Investors Secretly Monitor But Don&#39;t Talk About Yet

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Each week,&nbsp;Benzinga&#8217;s Stock Whisper Index&nbsp;uses a combination of proprietary data and pattern recognition to showcase five stocks that are just under the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/stock-whisper-index" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">surface and deserve attention</a>.
Investors are constantly on the hunt for undervalued, under-followed and emerging stocks. With countless methods available to retail traders, the challenge often lies in sifting through the abundance of information to uncover new opportunities and understand why certain stocks should be of interest.
Read Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/01/42802731/exclusive-top-20-most-searched-tickers-on-benzinga-pro-in-2024-where-do-tesla-nvidia-gamestop-trump-media-stocks-rank" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EXCLUSIVE: Top 20 Most-Searched Tickers On Benzinga Pro In 2024 — Where Do Tesla, Nvidia, GameStop, Trump Media Stocks Rank?</a>
Here's a look at the Benzinga Stock Whisper Index for the week ending Feb. 21:
 Sempra (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRE#NYSE">SRE</a>): The utility company saw an increase of interest from Benzinga readers during the week. The company will report fourth-quarter financial results next week. Analysts expect the company to report earnings per share of $1.60, up from $1.13 in last year's fourth quarter according to data <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent022125&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">from Benzinga Pro. </a>The company has missed analyst estimates for earnings per share in two straight quarters, while beating in eight of the last 10 quarters overall. Analysts expect the company to report fourth-quarter revenue of $4.36 billion. The company has missed analyst estimates in six straight quarters and seven of the last 10 quarters overall. Sempra's report could be followed closer than normal given the company's presence in the California market where<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42899953/five-dead-in-los-angeles-wildfires-utilities-face-scrutiny"> wildfires took place.</a>
The stock was up around 3% for the week, as seen in the <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent022125&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">Benzinga Pro chart </a>below. Shares are up 21% over the last year.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent022125&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1001" height="464" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/21171734/Screenshot-334.png" alt="" class="wp-image-793864" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/21171734/Screenshot-334.png 1001w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/21171734/Screenshot-334-300x139.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/21171734/Screenshot-334-768x356.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1001px) 100vw, 1001px" /></a></figure>
Vistra Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VST#NYSE">VST</a>): Investors paid close attention to the energy company this week, which has been a top performing stock over the last year. With ties to the nuclear energy business, the stock has soared and is up over 200% in the last year. JPMorgan <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/25/01/43039348/are-utilities-the-new-tech-why-entergy-nisource-vistra-are-jpmorgans-top-picks-for-2025">named the stock</a> one of the top utility stocks for 2025 earlier this year. The company is scheduled to report fourth-quarter financial results Thursday Feb. 27. Analysts expect the company to report quarterly earnings of $1.14 per share. The company has beat analyst estimates in two straight quarter and four of the last 10 quarters. Analysts expect the company to report quarterly revenue of $3.89 billion. The company has beaten analyst estimates in two of the last three quarters, but missed estimates in seven of the last 10 quarters. Several analyst <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/VST/analyst-ratings">reiterated bullish ratings </a>on the stock in recent weeks with BMO maintaining an Outperform and raising the price target from $151 to $191.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent022125&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="999" height="504" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/21171749/Screenshot-335.png" alt="" class="wp-image-793865" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/21171749/Screenshot-335.png 999w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/21171749/Screenshot-335-300x151.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/21171749/Screenshot-335-768x387.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 999px) 100vw, 999px" /></a></figure>
Alibaba Group Holdings (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BABA#NYSE">BABA</a>): The large Chinese e-commerce stock saw strong interest over the week thanks to earnings results and increased investments in the artificial intelligence sector. The company <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/02/43846533/alibaba-q3-earnings-revenue-and-eps-beat-eyes-global-e-commerce-profitability-in-fy25-increase-investments-in-ai">beat third-quarter </a>revenue and earnings per share estimates. The company has now beaten analyst estimates for earnings per share in nine of the last 10 quarters, while missing revenue estimates in seven of the last 10 quarters. In the quarterly results, Alibaba saw revenue grow across many segments on a year-over-year basis. Alibaba said it expects its international e-commerce unit to be profitable in the next quarter. The company also said it <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43874037/alibaba-sees-ai-gold-rush-in-cloud-computing-not-open-and-closed-source-modelshints-monetization-lies-in-powering-ai-not-selling-it">expects to invest</a> more in Cloud and AI in the next three years than in the last decade. Alibaba is focusing on cloud computing as the primary monetization effort for its AI efforts instead of AI models.
Multiple Alibaba analysts<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BABA/analyst-ratings"> raised their price targets </a>on the stock after the quarterly results, including Benchmark's Fawne Jiang who <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/price-target/25/02/43888574/alibabas-ai-expansion-e-commerce-growth-reinforce-bullish-analyst-outlook">maintained a Buy rating</a> and raised the target from $118 to $190. Jiang said the company's e-commerce business is rebounding along with the investments in cloud and AI.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent022125&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="995" height="506" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/21171806/Screenshot-336.png" alt="" class="wp-image-793866" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/21171806/Screenshot-336.png 995w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/21171806/Screenshot-336-300x153.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/21171806/Screenshot-336-768x391.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 995px) 100vw, 995px" /></a></figure>
AptarGroup (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ATR#NYSE">ATR</a>): The dispensing systems company saw strong interest from Benzinga readers during the week. The company recently reported fourth-quarter financial results with earnings per share beating analyst estimates and revenue missing analyst estimates. The company <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ATR/analyst-ratings">saw several analysts </a>recently maintain bullish ratings, while lowering their price targets. Given the rising interest in the stock and the $10 billion market capitalization, AptarGroup could be a stock to watch for investors. The stock was up around 2% in the last week and shares are up 5% over the last year.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent022125&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="995" height="505" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/21171821/Screenshot-337.png" alt="" class="wp-image-793868" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/21171821/Screenshot-337.png 995w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/21171821/Screenshot-337-300x152.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/21171821/Screenshot-337-768x390.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 995px) 100vw, 995px" /></a></figure>
Howmet Aerospace (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HWM#NYSE">HWM</a>): The aerospace company recently reported <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43697801/howmet-aerospace-q4-revenue-up-92-beats-estimatesprovides-2025-outlook-amid-boeing-and-airbus-uncertainty">fourth-quarter financial results </a>with earnings per share and revenue topping estimates. The company has now beat analyst estimates for earnings per share in eight straight quarters and for revenue in nine of the last 10 quarters. In the quarter, the company saw double-digit growth across many of the reporting segments on a year-over-year basis. Several analysts <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/HWM/analyst-ratings">raised their price targets </a>on the stock after the financial results. Howmet executives said they expect aftermarket growth for spares of 20% to 25% year-over-year in 2025. Executives also cautioned on renegotiations of long-term contracts and the potential tariff impact.
The stock was up slightly during the week and shares are up over 100% in the last year.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent022125&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="995" height="502" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/21171835/Screenshot-338.png" alt="" class="wp-image-793869" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/21171835/Screenshot-338.png 995w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/21171835/Screenshot-338-300x151.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/21171835/Screenshot-338-768x387.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 995px) 100vw, 995px" /></a></figure>
Stay tuned for next week&#8217;s report, and follow Benzinga Pro for all the latest headlines and <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent022125&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">top market-moving stories here.</a>
Read the latest Stock Whisper Index reports here:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43066466/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">January 17</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/01/43201590/benzinga-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">January 24</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/02/43419547/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-52" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">January 31</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/02/43578212/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-53">February 7</a></li>
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Benzinga's 'Stock Whisper' Index: 5 Stocks Investors Secretly Monitor But Don't Talk About Yet

Reported Earlier, SDG&E, A Sempra Subsidiary, Becomes First California Utility To Earn CAL/OSHA VPP Safety Certification

In the latest quarter, 5 analysts provided ratings for Sempra (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRE#NYSE">SRE</a>), showcasing a mix of bullish and bearish perspectives.
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">0</td>
<td align="right">5</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</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>
<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">2</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Analysts' evaluations of 12-month price targets offer additional insights, showcasing an average target of $95.2, with a high estimate of $99.00 and a low estimate of $88.00. This current average reflects an increase of 7.21% from the previous average price target of $88.80. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1737986437_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Breaking Down Analyst Ratings: A Detailed Examination</h2>
An in-depth analysis of recent analyst actions unveils how financial experts perceive Sempra. 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>Eric Beaumont</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$95.00</td>
<td>$99.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>David Arcaro</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$98.00</td>
<td>$85.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Eric Beaumont</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$99.00</td>
<td>$89.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sarah Akers</td>
<td>Wells Fargo</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$96.00</td>
<td>$87.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Durgesh Chopra</td>
<td>Evercore ISI Group</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$88.00</td>
<td>$84.00</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 Sempra. This information provides a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Gaining insights, analysts provide qualitative assessments, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings reflect expectations for the relative performance of Sempra compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts explore the dynamics of price targets, providing estimates for the future value of Sempra's stock. This examination reveals shifts in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
Navigating through these analyst evaluations alongside other financial indicators can contribute to a holistic understanding of Sempra's market standing. Stay informed and make data-driven decisions with our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SRE/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Sempra analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Delving into Sempra's Background</h2>
Sempra Energy serves one of the largest utility customer bases in the United States. It distributes natural gas and electricity in Southern California and owns 80% of Oncor, a transmission and distribution business in Texas. SoCalGas and San Diego Gas &amp; Electric distribute gas to more than 20 million customers, while Oncor serves more than 10 million Texas customers. Sempra Infrastructure partners, of which Sempra holds a controlling ownership, owns and operates liquefied natural gas facilities in North America and infrastructure in Mexico.
<h3>Sempra's Financial Performance</h3>
Market Capitalization: Exceeding industry standards, the company's market capitalization places it above industry average in size relative to peers. This emphasizes its significant scale and robust market position.
Revenue Challenges: Sempra's revenue growth over 3 months faced difficulties. As of 30 September, 2024, the company experienced a decline of approximately -16.74%. This indicates a decrease in 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.
Net Margin: Sempra's net margin is impressive, surpassing industry averages. With a net margin of 22.98%, the company demonstrates strong profitability and effective cost management.
Return on Equity (ROE): Sempra's ROE excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 2.22%. This signifies robust financial management and efficient use of shareholder equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): Sempra's ROA stands out, surpassing industry averages. With an impressive ROA of 0.69%, the company demonstrates effective utilization of assets and strong financial performance.
Debt Management: The company maintains a balanced debt approach with a debt-to-equity ratio below industry norms, standing at 1.19.
<h2>How Are Analyst Ratings Determined?</h2>
Benzinga tracks 150 analyst firms and reports on their stock expectations. Analysts typically arrive at their conclusions by predicting how much money a company will make in the future, usually the upcoming five years, and how risky or predictable that company's revenue streams are.
Analysts attend company conference calls and meetings, research company financial statements, and communicate with insiders to publish their ratings on stocks. Analysts typically rate each stock once per quarter or whenever the company has a major update.
Beyond their standard evaluations, some analysts contribute predictions for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue, furnishing investors with additional guidance. Users of analyst ratings should be mindful that this specialized advice is shaped by human perspectives and may be subject to variability.
Breaking: Wall Street's Next Big Mover
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This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Analyst Ratings

The Analyst Verdict: Sempra In The Eyes Of 5 Experts

Barclays analyst Eric Beaumont maintains Sempra (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRE#NYSE">SRE</a>) with a Overweight and lowers the price target from $99 to $95.

Price Target

Barclays Maintains Overweight on Sempra, Lowers Price Target to $95

At least 10 people have been killed in the Los Angeles fires this week, with over 9,000 structures destroyed, according to the latest estimates <a href="https://www.latimes.com/california/live/pacific-palisades-fire-updates-los-angeles">cited</a> by the L.A. Times.
What Happened: Several wildfires broke out on Tuesday and Wednesday in Los Angeles following <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42855962/los-angeles-ventura-counties-brace-for-windstorm-as-bad-as-it-gets-for-fire-weather">a strong windstorm</a>. While officials are slowly containing the blaze, the economic damage amounts to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/42922091/spacex-apple-airbnb-and-more-companies-pitch-in-to-support-california-residents-after-wildfires-we-want-to-help">the most devastating</a> in the city&#8217;s history.
The windstorm created a severe fire risk and several fires are still burning on Friday, the Los Angeles Times <a href="https://www.latimes.com/wildfires-map/?fire=palisades">reported</a>.
The blaze that began in Pacific Palisades burned over 20,000 acres of land. As of Friday, it is 8% contained.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Every kid in the US learns of the Great Chicago Fire (2,112 acres) in school and how modern building codes &amp; fire depts have made this impossible, yet both the 2023 Lahaina &amp; the current Palisades Fire crossed 17,000 acres &#8211; 8x the size! I marked up a map of Chicago to compare. <a href="https://t.co/jXiRWUosCE">pic.twitter.com/jXiRWUosCE</a>
&mdash; Shaun Cooley (@shauncooley) <a href="https://twitter.com/shauncooley/status/1877410391443255485?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The fire is nearly 10 times larger than the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Analysts project the total economic damage to range from $50 billion to $150 billion, <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2025/01/09/los-angeles-wildfire-economic-losses/">according </a>to the Washington Post.</figcaption></figure>
The Eaton Fire in Altadena and the San Gabriel Valley has burned over 13,000 acres and is merely 3% contained. Other fires are burning north of Calabasas and near Santa Clarita.
Over 200,000 Californians were without power on Friday, <a href="https://poweroutage.us/">according </a>to Power Outage.
Experts <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0ewe4p9128o">attribute </a>the increase in wildfires in recent years to the effects of climate change.
Why it Matters: Several companies with operations in Los Angeles are exposed to the fires.
Shares of Edison International (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EIX#NYSE">EIX</a>), the region&#8217;s utility provider, have tumbled more than 18% since Monday. Sempra (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRE#NYSE">SRE</a>), another utility provider, saw its shares sink more than 10%.
Insurance providers Chubb Ltd (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CB#NYSE">CB</a>), Travelers Companies Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TRV#NYSE">TRV</a>) and Allstate Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALL#NYSE">ALL</a>) saw their share prices deep in the red on Friday. Shares of Mercury General Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MCY#NYSE">MCY</a>) fell over 20%.
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Image: Shutterstock

California utility companies could come under pressure from regulators and investors after devastating Los Angeles wildfires have left at five people dead and almost 180,000 evacuated from their homes due to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42899028/la-wildfire-damages-estimated-above-52-billion-california-property-insurance-crisis">multiple wildfires</a>. 
Here's the latest.
What Happened: Areas near Los Angeles, California have <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/25/01/42888380/los-angeles-fires-shut-down-production-of-tv-shows-fallout-abbott-elementary-hacks-film-premieres-canceled-critics-choice-awards-delayed">been hardest hit</a> by one of the most destructive wildfire events in the state.
At least five people are dead, found in buildings in Altadena, where the Eaton Fire exploded Tuesday night, as <a href="https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2025-01-08/fire-weather-fierce-winds-los-angeles">reported </a>by the LA Times.
179,783 people are under evacuation orders as of Thursday, according to Los Angeles Sheriff Robert Luna, <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/weather/wildfires/live-blog/california-wildfires-live-updates-deadly-blazes-spread-hollywood-hills-rcna186927">NBC News </a>reported. Another 200,000 face evacuation warnings. 
Over 2,000 buildings have been burned. Multiple fires continue blazing Thursday and have not been contained.
&#8220;What we saw here in the last 24 hours is unprecedented," LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell said Wednesday. "I've never seen anything like this."
Limited resources including a lack of firefighters, firetrucks and water in fire hydrants have been reported in several regions.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom has called on the National Guard for its assistance in helping with evacuation orders and to assist with the devastating fires.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/space/25/01/42892886/spacex-ceo-elon-musk-offers-free-starlink-terminals-to-los-angeles-areas-affected-by-wildfires">SpaceX CEO Elon Musk Offers Free Starlink Terminals To Los Angeles Areas Affected By Wildfires</a>
Utility Stocks in Focus: Utility companies including Edison International (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EIX#NYSE">EIX</a>) and San Diego Gas &amp; Electric, which is owned by Sempra (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRE#NYSE">SRE</a>), began cutting power to customers to reduce fire risk ahead of elevated winds during the week, as reported by The New York Times.
Edison plans to continue utility shutoffs for customers through Friday after already cutting power to over 150,000 customers.
Restoration of power for customers will depend on future weather, the containment of fires and inspections of power lines.
"Our top concern right now is the safety of our customers, crew members and emergency personnel," Edison spokesman David Eisenhauer said.
Edison <a href="https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250108156871/en/Edison-International-Provides-Update-on-Southern-California-Wildfires-and-SCE-Power-Outages">said </a>the fires, which it called an "extreme weather event," are an evolving situation it is monitoring.
"Safety remains our number one priority for customers, employees and our communities," the company said.
Public safety power shutoffs have been conducted by SDG&amp;E due to the dry conditions and Santa Ana winds, the company <a href="https://www.sdgetoday.com/news/sdge-responds-extreme-weather-continued-public-safety-power-shutoffs-0">said </a>Wednesday. The proactive measure is being done to protect public safety and help reduce wildfire risk.
A statement from Pacific Gas &amp; Electric (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PCG#NYSE">PCG</a>) <a href="https://www.pge.com/en/newsroom/currents/safety/southern-california-wildfires--pg-e-crews--helicopters-and-wildf.html">said </a>the company has sent helicopters and wildlife resources to the region to help with the fires, including two Blackhawk helicopters.
PG&amp;E said it is monitoring conditions in its serviced areas including Kern, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties.
Edison stock was <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/42894683/los-angeles-wildfires-stoke-investor-fears-edison-internationals-stock-ended-10-lower-on-wednesday-amid-concerns-over-possible-equipment-links-to-forest-fires">hit the hardest</a> of the utility companies connected to the California wildfires, falling 10% to $69.50 on Wednesday. The stock is now down 5% over the last year.
Pacific Gas &amp; Electric shares fell 4% to $19.25 on Wednesday.
Sempra shares fell 2% to $82.82 on Wednesday.
These utility companies remain top holdings in utility ETFs. In the SPDR Select Sector Fund – Utilities (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLU#NYSE">XLU</a>), Sempra is the sixth largest holding at 4.5% of assets, PCG 10th largest at 3.6% of assets and EIX comprises 2.3% of the ETF&#8217;s assets.
In the Vanguard Utilities ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VPU#NYSE">VPU</a>), Sempra (4.3% of assets), PG&amp;E (3.2% of assets) and Edison International (2.5%) are among the largest holdings. 
Fire Cause: One of the key question on the minds of California residents and investors will be who or what caused the fire. Right now, this remains a mystery.
As the New York Times <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/08/us/what-caused-california-fires.html">reports</a>, scrutiny of power lines will likely come after the fires, as utility equipment has led to some of the largest California wildfires in the past, including the 2018 Camp Fire that left 85 people dead.
In 2024, four wildfire incidents were caused by utility equipment, including two by Edison International-owned Southern California Edison, according to the report.
Pacific Gas &amp; Electric, which may have limited exposure to this week&#8217;s infernos, is a lesson in the liability risk that California utilities face.
The utility company declared bankruptcy in 2019 related to damages and claims from wildfires. This included a<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/19/12/14953787/pg-e-trades-higher-on-13-5b-wildfires-settlement"> $13.5 billion settlement </a>for its alleged role in the fires. The company emerged from bankruptcy in 2020.
In 2024, Pacific Gas &amp; Electric paid $45 million in penalties related to the Dixie Fire in 2021, which state regulators found was linked to the company's power lines, as <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/01/26/us/pacific-gas-electric-settlement-dixie-fire-california/index.html">reported </a>by CNN.
California state law AB-1054, passed in 2019, established a Wildfire Fund of up to $21 billion to provide liquidity for fire events in the state and limits the liability of utility companies.
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/sports/25/01/42889402/nhl-game-canceled-after-los-angeles-fires-nfl-monitoring-situation-ahead-of-monday-playoff-game">NHL Game Canceled After Los Angeles Fires, NFL Monitoring Situation Ahead Of Monday Playoff Game</a></li>
</ul>
Photo via Shutterstock.

A destructive wildfire continues to rage through the Pacific Palisades section of Los Angeles on Wednesday, forcing more than 30,000 people to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42855962/los-angeles-ventura-counties-brace-for-windstorm-as-bad-as-it-gets-for-fire-weather">evacuate the area. </a>
The Details: Before the fire started, the National Weather Service issued an alert for extreme fire conditions, including wind gusts of between 50 and 80 miles per hour, for Los Angeles County from Tuesday through Thursday.  
From Tuesday morning to Wednesday morning, the fire burned more than 3,000 acres, according to Reuters. 
The Pacific Palisades fire, 0% contained, grew to encompass more than 4.5 square miles Wednesday morning, <a href="https://weather.com/news/weather/news/2025-01-07-los-angeles-palisades-fire-santa-ana-wind-california">according</a> to the Weather Channel. Authorities expect the worst conditions through Wednesday morning with wind gusts possibly reaching 100 miles per hour. 
"This is pretty much the worst possible scenario for a firefight," David Ortiz of the Los Angeles Fire Department told KTLA-TV.
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Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley on Tuesday said at a press conference that more than 25,000 people in 10,000 homes were threatened.
Karen Bass, mayor of Los Angeles, encouraged residents to heed warnings from officials in an early Wednesday morning post on social media.&nbsp;
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Our <a href="https://twitter.com/LAFD?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LAFD</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/LAPDHQ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LAPDHQ</a> teams continue to work overnight to protect Angelenos affected by fires in L.A. Angelenos should be advised that the windstorm is expected to worsen through the morning and to heed local warnings, stay vigilant and stay safe. Red flag parking restrictions…
&mdash; Mayor Karen Bass (@MayorOfLA) <a href="https://twitter.com/MayorOfLA/status/1876938290395525605?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
The Los Angeles Times <a href="https://www.latimes.com/california/live/pacific-palisades-fire-updates-los-angeles#p=pch-devastated-by-palisades-fire">reported</a> homes and businesses along the Pacific Coast Highway were leveled by the fire Tuesday night as high winds whipped the flames. The National Weather Service reported a gust of 99 mph near Altadena at 10:20 p.m. PT Tuesday and 84 mph at Hollywood Burbank Airport at 8:30 p.m. PT.&nbsp;
More than 160,000 power outages are reported in Los Angeles county, according to<a href="https://poweroutage.us/area/state/california"> data from </a>Poweroutage.us. Pacific Gas &amp; Electric Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PCG#NYSE">PCG</a>) currently has 5,700 customers without power. San Diego Gas &amp; Electric, a subsidiary of Sempra (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRE#NYSE">SRE</a>), has more than 9,000 customers without electricity. 
Los Angeles International Airport is operating with minimal interruptions Wednesday morning. However, some flights have been diverted due to smoke in the area. Total delays stand at 56 with 8 cancellations reported so far on Wednesday, according to <a href="https://www.flightaware.com/live/cancelled/today/KLAX">data from </a>FlightAware. 
Delta Air Lines Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DAL#NYSE">DAL</a>), American Airlines Group Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAL#NASDAQ">AAL</a>) and United Airlines Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UAL#NASDAQ">UAL</a>) are the largest airlines with flights out of LAX and could face operations disruptions in the coming days.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom toured part of the affected area in Pacific Palisades on Tuesday.
"Not a few — many structures already destroyed," Newsom said. 
Precise damage estimates will only be available after a thorough assessment once the fire is contained. Some of the largest property insurers in California include Allstate Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALL#NYSE">ALL</a>) and The Travelers Companies, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TRV#NYSE">TRV</a>) and could face increased claims resulting from fire damage. 
President Joe Biden announced Tuesday that a federal grant had been approved to reimburse California for the fire response. 
&#8220;I have offered any federal assistance that is needed to help suppress the terrible Pacific Palisades fire,&#8221; Biden said in a statement.
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Image: Shutterstock

Travel

Insurance

General

Wildfire Rips Through LA's Pacific Palisades Neighborhood Destroying Homes: 3,000 Acres Burned As 30,000 Residents Evacuate

Southern California is bracing for another <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/07/39583371/july-fourth-heat-california-faces-blackout-and-fire-risks-this-week-during-triple-digit-temperat">severe weather event</a> as the National Weather Service says an incoming windstorm could lead to wildfires.
The Forecast: The windstorm will hit most of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, according to an NWS <a href="https://www.instagram.com/nwslosangeles/p/DEghe26MjNM/">post</a> on Monday night labeling the weather as an &#8220;extreme risk.&#8221; The agency anticipates 50 to 80 mile-per-hour wind gusts with increased exposure in mountainous regions. 
The warning spans Tuesday to Thursday.
&#8220;Strong winds are coming. This is a Particularly Dangerous Situation &#8211; in other words, this is about as bad as it gets in terms of fire weather,&#8221; the post read. &#8220;Stay aware of your surroundings. Be ready to evacuate, especially if in a high fire risk area. Be careful with fire sources.&#8221;
A <a href="https://x.com/NWSLosAngeles/status/1876408016930803836">post</a> on X said the wind could lead to downed trees, many power outages and significant airport delays at LAX.
Why it Matters: San Diego Gas and Energy, a subsidiary of Sempra (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRE#NYSE">SRE</a>), <a href="https://www.sdge.com/psps-dashboard">said</a> it could turn off power for up to 65,000 customers in anticipation of the storm. Edison International (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EIX#NYSE">EIX</a>) also services the region and could face significant exposure.
Delta Air Lines Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DAL#NYSE">DAL</a>), American Airlines Group Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAL#NASDAQ">AAL</a>) and United Airlines Holdings Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UAL#NASDAQ">UAL</a>) are the <a href="https://www.lawa.org/-/media/lawa-web/statistics/market-share-statistics/aircarrier-2023.ashx">largest</a> airlines with flights out of LAX. All three companies could face operations disruptions in the coming days.
The state has faced severe wildfires and extreme weather events in recent years which is widely attributed to the effects of climate change.
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</ul>
Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

Los Angeles, Ventura Counties Brace For Windstorm: 'As Bad As It Gets In Terms Of Fire Weather'

In a new SEC filing on January 6, it was revealed that Attorney-In-Fact, Executive Vice President at Sempra (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRE#NYSE">SRE</a>), executed a significant exercise of company stock options.
What Happened: The latest Form 4 filing on Monday with the <a href="https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/0001032208/000106299325000306//Archives/edgar/data/1032208/000106299325000306/0001062993-25-000306-index.htm">U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission</a> uncovered Attorney-In-Fact, Executive Vice President at Sempra, exercising stock options for 0 shares of SRE. The total transaction was valued at $0.
During Monday's morning session, Sempra shares down by 1.8%, currently priced at $86.09. Considering the current price, Attorney-In-Fact's 0 shares have a total value of $0.
<h3>Discovering Sempra: A Closer Look</h3>
Sempra Energy serves one of the largest utility customer bases in the United States. It distributes natural gas and electricity in Southern California and owns 80% of Oncor, a transmission and distribution business in Texas. SoCalGas and San Diego Gas &amp; Electric distribute gas to more than 20 million customers, while Oncor serves more than 10 million Texas customers. Sempra Infrastructure partners, of which Sempra holds a controlling ownership, owns and operates liquefied natural gas facilities in North America and infrastructure in Mexico.
<h3>Sempra: Delving into Financials</h3>
Revenue Challenges: Sempra's revenue growth over 3 months faced difficulties. As of 30 September, 2024, the company experienced a decline of approximately -16.74%. This indicates a decrease 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.
Exploring Profitability:
<ul>
<li>
Gross Margin: The company shows a low gross margin of 44.49%, suggesting potential challenges in cost control and profitability compared to its peers.
</li>
<li>
Earnings per Share (EPS): Sempra's EPS is significantly higher than the industry average. The company demonstrates a robust bottom-line performance with a current EPS of 1.01.
</li>
</ul>
Debt Management: The company maintains a balanced debt approach with a debt-to-equity ratio below industry norms, standing at 1.19.
Financial Valuation:
<ul>
<li>
Price to Earnings (P/E) Ratio: A higher-than-average P/E ratio of 19.31 suggests caution, as the stock may be overvalued in the eyes of investors.
</li>
<li>
Price to Sales (P/S) Ratio: With a higher-than-average P/S ratio of 4.32, Sempra's stock is perceived as being overvalued in the market, particularly in relation to sales performance.
</li>
<li>
EV/EBITDA Analysis (Enterprise Value to its Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation &amp; Amortization): A high EV/EBITDA ratio of 16.99 reflects market recognition of Sempra's value, positioning it as more highly valued compared to industry peers.
</li>
</ul>
Market Capitalization: Positioned above industry average, the company's market capitalization underscores its superiority in size, indicative of a strong market presence.
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<h3>Delving Into the Significance of Insider Transactions</h3>
In the complex landscape of investment decisions, investors should approach insider transactions as part of a comprehensive analysis, considering various elements.
When discussing legal matters, the term "insider" refers to any officer, director, or beneficial owner holding more than ten percent of a company's equity securities, as stipulated in Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. This includes executives in the c-suite and significant hedge funds. Such insiders are required to report their transactions through a Form 4 filing, which must be completed within two business days of the transaction.
A new purchase by a company insider is a indication that they anticipate the stock will rise.
On the other hand, insider sells may not necessarily indicate a bearish view and can be motivated by various factors.
<h3>Important Transaction Codes</h3>
Navigating through the landscape of transactions, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/investing-tools">investors</a> often prioritize those unfolding in the open market, precisely detailed in Table I of the Form 4 filing. A P in Box 3 denotes 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=0001032208">Check Out The Full List Of Sempra's Insider Trades.</a>
Insider Buying Alert: Profit from C-Suite Moves
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This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Insider Trades

Options Exercise Activity Initiated By JUSTIN C. BIRD   BY: James M. Spira Associate General Counsel of Sempra and Attorney-In-Fact At Sempra Worth $0

Goldman Sachs research kicked off the new year with bold stock picks and a spotlight on five investment themes poised to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/12/42710358/veteran-investor-bets-big-on-sp-500-hitting-7000-by-end-of-2025-these-sectors-could-lead-the-charge">shape markets in 2025.</a>
What Happened: In a note shared Thursday, the analyst team led by Steven Kron shuffled its &#8220;Conviction List&#8221; — a carefully curated portfolio of top investment ideas.
Goldman Sachs added Belden Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BDC#NYSE">BDC</a>), Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NCLH#NYSE">NCLH</a>), and Uber Technologies Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UBER#NYSE">UBER</a>) to the list. These companies replaced Fox Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FOXA#NASDAQ">FOXA</a>), Parker Hannifin Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PH#NYSE">PH</a>), and TPG Inc. (TPG).
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/01/42777236/investors-dump-long-dated-treasury-etf-at-record-pace-ahead-of-trumps-white-house-return">Investors Dump Long-Dated Treasury ETF At Record Pace Ahead Of Trump&#8217;s White House Return</a>
Why It Matters: Industrial tech is back in vogue. Analyst Mark Delaney sees Belden riding a cyclical industrial recovery while expanding its high-margin software solutions business. Delaney models earnings per share (EPS) above consensus estimates for both 2025 and 2026, making this a standout pick in the industrial space.
Cruises are sailing into a stronger 2025. Analyst Lizzie Dove cites accelerating Net Purchase Intent (NPI) data and cost savings from a 2023 management shuffle. Dove expects Norwegian to widen its yield-to-unit-cost spread by 2.5 percentage points, bringing its valuation closer to peer Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RCL#NYSE">RCL</a>).
Analyst Eric Sheridan remains bullish on Uber despite skepticism over its mobility business and the rise of autonomous vehicles. He forecasts a robust 39% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in adjusted EBITDA from 2023-2026. According to the bank, Uber is set to deliver $3.50 in GAAP EPS by 2026—a projection that sits 7% above consensus. Goldman Sachs holds a 12-month price target of $96 on Uber stock, implying a nearly 60% upside from current market levels.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Key Themes For 2025: AI, M&amp;A, Deglobalization, And More</h3>
The investment bank also outlined five key themes to track as we enter the new year.
<ul>
<li>Artificial Intelligence: Goldman's Kash Rangan expects AI investment to shift in 2025, moving from infrastructure spending to platforms and applications. In a recent note, Rangan highlighted the increasing integration of AI into enterprise software. Stocks with exposure to this trend include Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), Snowflake Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SNOW#NYSE">SNOW</a>) and Teradyne Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TER#NASDAQ">TER</a>).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>De-regulation, M&amp;A, And Capital Markets Rebound: Regulatory changes under a potential second Trump administration could accelerate M&amp;A activity, Goldman analysts say. Financial firms like Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/C#NYSE">C</a>), Evercore Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EVR#NYSE">EVR</a>), and S&amp;P Global (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPGI#NYSE">SPGI</a>) are positioned to benefit. Analyst Richard Ramsden recently indicated a more favorable environment for banks and financial advisors.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Re-powering America: Carly Davenport flagged the surging power demands of data centers and AI compute, noting this trend is driving sustained growth in utilities capex. Her team stressed the importance of energy infrastructure to support the transportation electrification. Stocks like DBA Sempra (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRE#NYSE">SRE</a>) is Goldman&#8217;s top pick here.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Deglobalization: The era of tariff wars is far from over. Jan Hatzius and economics team expect a 20 percentage point hike in tariffs on Chinese imports and new duties on European autos and Mexican EVs. Companies like Vulcan Materials Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VMC#NYSE">VMC</a>) and Woodward Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WWD#NASDAQ">WWD</a>) are well-positioned to adapt to supply chain disruptions caused by these policies.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Resilient US Consumers: Despite macro concerns, Goldman Sachs continues to paint another strong year for U.S. consumers. Discretionary cash flow is expected to grow by 5.2% in 2025, up from 4.4% in 2024, supported by higher savings rates. Stocks to watch include Norwegian Cruise Line, Uber, Burlington Stores Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BURL#NYSE">BURL</a>), and Pinterest Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PINS#NYSE">PINS</a>).</li>
</ul>
Read Now: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/25/01/42770597/wall-street-watches-january-sp-500-tends-to-gain-yet-streaming-giant-steals-the-market-show">Wall Street Watches January &#8211; S&amp;P 500 Tends To Gain, Yet Streaming Giant Steals The Market Show</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Analyst Color

Tech

BURL

FOXA

NCLH

NVDA

PINS

SNOW

SPGI

UBER

Goldman Sachs Adds 3 Stocks To 'Conviction List,' Flags 5 Market Trends To Monitor In 2025

In the current market session, Sempra Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRE#NYSE">SRE</a>) share price is at $86.16, after a 1.26% increase. Moreover, over the past month, the stock fell by 9.01%, but in the past year, spiked by 16.91%. Shareholders might be interested in knowing whether the stock is overvalued, even if the company is performing up to par in the current session. 

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1734639308_0.png" alt="Past Year Chart" />

<h3>Comparing Sempra P/E Against Its Peers</h3>
The P/E ratio is used by long-term shareholders to assess the company's market performance against aggregate market data, historical earnings, and the industry at large. A lower P/E could indicate that shareholders do not expect the stock to perform better in the future or it could mean that the company is undervalued. 
Compared to the aggregate P/E ratio of 18.64 in the Multi-Utilities industry, Sempra Inc. has a higher P/E ratio of 18.74. Shareholders might be inclined to think that Sempra Inc. might perform better than its industry group. It's also possible that the stock is overvalued. 

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1734639308_1.png" alt="Guage" />

In conclusion, the price-to-earnings ratio is a useful metric for analyzing a company's market performance, but it has its limitations. While a lower P/E can indicate that a company is undervalued, it can also suggest that shareholders do not expect future growth. Additionally, the P/E ratio should not be used in isolation, as other factors such as industry trends and business cycles can also impact a company's stock price. Therefore, investors should use the P/E ratio in conjunction with other financial metrics and qualitative analysis to make informed investment decisions.

Intraday Update

P/E Ratio Insights for Sempra

Morgan Stanley analyst David Arcaro upgrades Sempra (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRE#NYSE">SRE</a>) from Equal-Weight to Overweight and raises the price target from $85 to $98.

Upgrades

Morgan Stanley Upgrades Sempra to Overweight, Raises Price Target to $98

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 Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NFLX#NASDAQ">NFLX</a>).
On Wednesday, JPMorgan analyst Doug Anmuth maintained Netflix with an Overweight and raised the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/NFLX/analyst-ratings">price target from $850 to $1,010.</a>
 &#8220;It is absolutely true that they're not doing as well as Nvidia (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>),&#8221; Cramer said when asked about Advanced Micro Devices (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>). &#8220;But can we just remember Lisa Su has built an amazing company?&#8221; He recommended buying the stock, saying that the stock is &#8220;actually cheap.&#8221;
On Monday, AMD named Tim Keating as senior vice president, Government Relations and Regulatory Affairs.
Cramer said he prefers Sempra (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRE#NYSE">SRE</a>) over Constellation Energy Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CEG#NASDAQ">CEG</a>). He added, &#8220;I don't want you to sell Constellation Energy, it has a habit of bouncing back because it's really involved in the data center, but it has got way too much volatility for me.&#8221;
On Nov. 22, Morgan Stanley analyst David Arcaro maintained Constellation Energy with an Overweight and lowered the price target from $323 to $322.
&#8220;Even with the talc litigation, I do want to buy it down here,&#8221; Cramer said when asked about Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>).
On Wednesday, Citigroup analyst Joanne Wuensch maintained Johnson &amp; Johnson with a Buy and lowered the price target from $185 to $175.
Rubrik, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RBRK#NYSE">RBRK</a>) is a &#8220;very good&#8221; company, Cramer said. &#8220;The stock has been straight up. And, I've got to tell you, after that last quarter, I understand why it's straight up. It was probably mispriced when it came public.&#8221;
On Dec. 5, Rubrik posted better-than-expected quarterly results.
When asked about JD.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JD#NASDAQ">JD</a>), he said, &#8220;It's too much of a stretch for me.&#8221;
On Monday, Bernstein analyst Robin Zhu upgraded JD.com from Market Perform to Outperform and raised the price target from $43 to $46.
Price Action:
<ul>
<li>AMD shares gained 1.9% to settle at $130.15 on Wednesday.</li>
<li>Constellation Energy shares gained 1.8% to close at $236.60.</li>
<li>Rubrik shares gained 1.7% to settle at $70.42 on Wednesday.</li>
<li>JD.Com shares fell 3.4% to $38.21 on Wednesday.</li>
<li>Johnson &amp; Johnson shares fell 1.7% to close at $146.64 on Wednesday.</li>
<li>Netflix shares gained 2.5% to settle at $936.56 on Wednesday.</li>
</ul>
Read Next:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/24/12/42437595/jim-cramer-says-keep-owning-this-energy-stock-abbott-laboratories-legal-stuff-is-behind-them"> </a>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/24/12/42437595/jim-cramer-says-keep-owning-this-energy-stock-abbott-laboratories-legal-stuff-is-behind-them">Jim Cramer Says &#8216;Keep Owning&#8217; This Energy Stock, Abbott Laboratories &#8216;Legal Stuff&#8217; Is Behind Them</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Long Ideas

Media

NFLX

RBRK

Jim Cramer Says This CEO 'Built An Amazing Company,' Recommends Buying Netflix

In the latest quarter, 9 analysts provided ratings for Sempra (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRE#NYSE">SRE</a>), showcasing a mix of bullish and bearish perspectives.
In the table below, you'll find a summary of their recent ratings, revealing the shifting sentiments over the past 30 days and comparing them to the previous 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">2</td>
<td align="right">6</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</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>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">2</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">1</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Analysts have set 12-month price targets for Sempra, revealing an average target of $93.11, a high estimate of $99.00, and a low estimate of $85.00. Observing a 6.85% increase, the current average has risen from the previous average price target of $87.14. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1733158858_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Investigating Analyst Ratings: An Elaborate Study</h2>
A clear picture of Sempra's perception among financial experts is painted with a thorough analysis of recent analyst actions. The summary below 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>Eric Beaumont</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$99.00</td>
<td>$89.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sarah Akers</td>
<td>Wells Fargo</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$96.00</td>
<td>$87.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Durgesh Chopra</td>
<td>Evercore ISI Group</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$88.00</td>
<td>$84.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Julien Dumoulin-Smith</td>
<td>Jefferies</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$98.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>James Thalacker</td>
<td>BMO Capital</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$96.00</td>
<td>$93.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Eric Beaumont</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$89.00</td>
<td>$87.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>David Arcaro</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$85.00</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ross Fowler</td>
<td>B of A Securities</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$94.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>James Thalacker</td>
<td>BMO Capital</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$93.00</td>
<td>$90.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Analysts respond to changes in market conditions and company performance, frequently updating their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Sempra. This information offers a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Analysts assign qualitative assessments to stocks, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey the analysts' expectations for the relative performance of Sempra compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts gauge the dynamics of price targets, providing estimates for the future value of Sempra's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
Analyzing these analyst evaluations alongside relevant financial metrics can provide a comprehensive view of Sempra's market position. Stay informed and make data-driven decisions with the assistance of our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SRE/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Sempra analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>All You Need to Know About Sempra</h2>
Sempra Energy serves one of the largest utility customer bases in the United States. It distributes natural gas and electricity in Southern California and owns 80% of Oncor, a transmission and distribution business in Texas. SoCalGas and San Diego Gas &amp; Electric distribute gas to more than 20 million customers, while Oncor serves more than 10 million Texas customers. Sempra Infrastructure partners, of which Sempra holds a controlling ownership, owns and operates liquefied natural gas facilities in North America and infrastructure in Mexico.
<h3>Financial Milestones: Sempra's Journey</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: The company's market capitalization surpasses industry averages, showcasing a dominant size relative to peers and suggesting a strong market position.
Revenue Challenges: Sempra's revenue growth over 3 months faced difficulties. As of 30 September, 2024, the company experienced a decline of approximately -16.74%. This indicates a decrease in top-line earnings. In comparison to its industry peers, the company trails behind with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Utilities sector.
Net Margin: Sempra's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional net margin, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable net margin of 22.98%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost management.
Return on Equity (ROE): The company's ROE is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROE of 2.22%, the company showcases effective utilization of equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): Sempra's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional ROA, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable ROA of 0.69%, the company showcases efficient use of assets and strong financial health.
Debt Management: Sempra's debt-to-equity ratio is below the industry average. With a ratio of 1.19, the company relies less on debt financing, maintaining a healthier balance between debt and equity, which can be viewed positively by investors.
<h2>Understanding the Relevance of 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.
Analysts may enhance their evaluations by incorporating forecasts for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue, delivering additional guidance to investors. It is vital to acknowledge that, although experts in stocks and sectors, analysts are human and express their opinions when providing insights.
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This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Deep Dive Into Sempra Stock: Analyst Perspectives (9 Ratings)

Barclays analyst Eric Beaumont maintains Sempra (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRE#NYSE">SRE</a>) with a Overweight and raises the price target from $89 to $99.

Barclays Maintains Overweight on Sempra, Raises Price Target to $99

Wells Fargo analyst Sarah Akers maintains Sempra (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRE#NYSE">SRE</a>) with a Overweight and raises the price target from $87 to $96.

Wells Fargo Maintains Overweight on Sempra, Raises Price Target to $96

Across the recent three months, 9 analysts have shared their insights on Sempra (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRE#NYSE">SRE</a>), expressing a variety of opinions spanning from bullish to bearish.
The following table encapsulates their recent ratings, offering a glimpse into the evolving sentiments 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;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">5</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</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;">1</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>1M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</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>2M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</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>3M Ago</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;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Providing deeper insights, analysts have established 12-month price targets, indicating an average target of $90.0, along with a high estimate of $98.00 and a low estimate of $80.00. Surpassing the previous average price target of $84.57, the current average has increased by 6.42%.
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1730991617_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Understanding Analyst Ratings: A Comprehensive Breakdown</h2>
The perception of Sempra by financial experts is analyzed through recent analyst actions. The following summary presents 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>Durgesh Chopra</td>
<td>Evercore ISI Group</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$88.00</td>
<td>$84.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Julien Dumoulin-Smith</td>
<td>Jefferies</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$98.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>James Thalacker</td>
<td>BMO Capital</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$96.00</td>
<td>$93.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Eric Beaumont</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$89.00</td>
<td>$87.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>David Arcaro</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$85.00</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ross Fowler</td>
<td>B of A Securities</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$94.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>James Thalacker</td>
<td>BMO Capital</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$93.00</td>
<td>$90.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>David Arcaro</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
<td>$77.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Eric Beaumont</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$87.00</td>
<td>$81.00</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 Sempra. This information provides a snapshot of how analysts perceive 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 Sempra compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts gauge the dynamics of price targets, providing estimates for the future value of Sempra's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
Navigating through these analyst evaluations alongside other financial indicators can contribute to a holistic understanding of Sempra's market standing. Stay informed and make data-driven decisions with our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SRE/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Sempra analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Unveiling the Story Behind Sempra</h2>
Sempra Energy serves one of the largest utility customer bases in the United States. It distributes natural gas and electricity in Southern California and owns 80% of Oncor, a transmission and distribution business in Texas. SoCalGas and San Diego Gas &amp; Electric distribute gas to more than 20 million customers, while Oncor serves more than 10 million Texas customers. Sempra Infrastructure partners, of which Sempra holds a controlling ownership, owns and operates liquefied natural gas facilities in North America and infrastructure in Mexico.
<h3>Sempra: Financial Performance Dissected</h3>
Market Capitalization: Surpassing industry standards, the company's market capitalization asserts its dominance in terms of size, suggesting a robust market position.
Decline in Revenue: Over the 3 months period, Sempra faced challenges, resulting in a decline of approximately -9.72% in revenue growth as of 30 June, 2024. This signifies a reduction in the company's top-line earnings. In comparison to its industry peers, the company trails behind with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Utilities sector.
Net Margin: Sempra's net margin surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 23.68% net margin, the company effectively manages costs and achieves strong profitability.
Return on Equity (ROE): Sempra's ROE excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 2.51%. This signifies robust financial management and efficient use of shareholder equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): Sempra's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional ROA, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable ROA of 0.79%, the company showcases efficient use of assets and strong financial health.
Debt Management: Sempra's debt-to-equity ratio is below the industry average at 1.15, reflecting a lower dependency on debt financing and a more conservative financial approach.
<h2>Understanding the Relevance of Analyst Ratings</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 enhance their evaluations by incorporating forecasts for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue, delivering additional guidance to investors. It is vital to acknowledge that, although experts in stocks and sectors, analysts are human and express their opinions when providing insights.
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This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

The Analyst Verdict: Sempra In The Eyes Of 9 Experts

Evercore ISI Group analyst Durgesh Chopra maintains Sempra (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRE#NYSE">SRE</a>) with a Outperform and raises the price target from $84 to $88.

Evercore ISI Group Maintains Outperform on Sempra, Raises Price Target to $88

An &#8220;everything rally&#8221; powered Wall Street on Wednesday after the 2024 election results, with Donald Trump emerging as the clear presidential winner. The Republican Party reclaimed control of the Senate, while the House of Representatives leans Republican <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/11/41778433/s-p-500-dow-hit-record-highs-after-trump-win-fear-index-drops-20">but remains undecided.</a>
The major U.S. equity indices – the S&amp;P 500, Dow Jones Industrial Average, and Nasdaq 100 – surged to record highs in early trading, as investor optimism grew on expectations of more favorable tax policies. 
The S&amp;P 500, Nasdaq, and Dow posted gains of 2.3%, 2.4%, and 3.3%, respectively.
However, the real standouts were small caps and bank stocks, with investors turning to domestic businesses and U.S. banks in anticipation of potential tariff protections and further financial deregulation. 
The Russell 2000 jumped 5.5%, marking its largest single-day increase in two years. 
Large-cap bank stocks climbed 6%, while regional banks tracked by the SPDR S&amp;P Regional Banking ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KRE#NYSE">KRE</a>) soared 13%—both seeing their biggest one-day gains since November 2020, when the first COVID-19 vaccine was announced.
Clean energy stocks were among the day's worst performers, with the Invesco Solar ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TAN#NYSE">TAN</a>) plunging 11% for its steepest drop since March 2020, as investors braced for potential rollbacks on green initiatives under the Trump administration.
In the foreign exchange market, the U.S. dollar initially rallied nearly 2% before paring gains to 1.4% as traders awaited a Federal Reserve interest rate cut on Thursday.
Treasury yields spiked as expectations rose for larger budget deficits under Republican fiscal policies and higher inflation due to potential tariffs. The 10-year Treasury yield climbed 14 basis points to 4.41%, reaching a four-month high.
Gold prices fell 2.8%, silver dropped over 4%, while natural gas rose 3.8%. Oil prices remained steady.
In the cryptocurrency market, risk appetite thrived, with Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) rising over 8% to reach a record high of $75,000. Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) gained 10%, and Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>) surged 14%, the strongest performance among the top 10 cryptocurrencies.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Wednesday&#8217;s Performance In Major US Indices, Sectors</h3>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Major Indices</td>
<td>Price</td>
<td>1-day % chg</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Russell 2000</td>
<td>2,388.20</td>
<td>5.6%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dow Jones</td>
<td>43,739.86</td>
<td>3.6%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nasdaq 100</td>
<td>20,740.09</td>
<td>2.5%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>S&amp;P 500</td>
<td>5,922.98</td>
<td>2.4%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Updated at 1:30 p.m. ET</figcaption></figure>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Sector</th>
<th>1-day % chg</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Financials</td>
<td>6.0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Energy</td>
<td>4.0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Industrials</td>
<td>3.9%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cons. Discretionary</td>
<td>2.9%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Technology</td>
<td>2.7%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Communications</td>
<td>1.9%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Materials</td>
<td>1.8%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Health Care</td>
<td>0.3%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Utilities</td>
<td>-0.7%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cons. Staples</td>
<td>-1.7%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Real Estate</td>
<td>-3.3%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Updated at 1:30 p.m. ET</figcaption></figure>
According to <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent110624&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">Benzinga Pro</a> data:
<ul>
<li>The&nbsp;SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) rose 2.4% to $590.30.</li>
<li>The&nbsp;SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIA#NYSE">DIA</a>)&nbsp;rallied 3.5% to $437.05.</li>
<li>The tech-heavy Invesco QQQ Trust Series (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>) soared 2.5% to $504.69.</li>
<li>The iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWM#NYSE">IWM</a>) spiked 5.6% to $236.23.</li>
<li>The Financials Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLF#NYSE">XLF</a>) outperformed, rising 6%. The Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLRE#NYSE">XLRE</a>) lagged, down 3.3%.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Wednesday&#8217;s Stock Movers</h3>
Stocks reacting to earnings reports were: 
<ul>
<li>Archer-Daniels-Midland Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ADM#NYSE">ADM</a>), up 2%, </li>
<li>Devon Energy Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DVN#NYSE">DVN</a>), up 1.8%, </li>
<li>Super Micro Computer Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMCI#NASDAQ">SMCI</a>), down 22%, </li>
<li>CVS Health Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVS#NYSE">CVS</a>), up 12%,</li>
<li>DBA Sempra (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRE#NYSE">SRE</a>), up 5.8%, </li>
<li>American Electric Power Company Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEP#NASDAQ">AEP</a>), down 3%, </li>
<li>Cencora Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COR#NYSE">COR</a>), up 5.5%, </li>
<li>Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HWM#NYSE">HWM</a>), up 10.7%, </li>
</ul>
Major companies moving in reaction to election results were: 
<ul>
<li>Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>), up 14.8%, </li>
<li>Capital One Financial Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COF#NYSE">COF</a>), up 14.4%, </li>
<li>Morgan Stanley (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MS#NYSE">MS</a>), up 13.1%, </li>
<li>Wells Fargo &amp; Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WFC#NYSE">WFC</a>), up 13.1%, </li>
<li>The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GS#NYSE">GS</a>), up 12.9%. </li>
</ul>
The rallies in the stock and crypto markets drove shares of Robinhood Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HOOD#NASDAQ">HOOD</a>) and Coinbase Global Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COIN#NASDAQ">COIN</a>) up by 18% and 26%, respectively.
Major losers among clean energy stocks included Enphase Energy Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ENPH#NASDAQ">ENPH</a>) and First Solar Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FSLR#NASDAQ">FSLR</a>), down 16.7% and 10.5%, respectively. 
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/technicals/24/11/41781115/stock-of-the-day-trump-media-technology-hits-resistance-reverses-and-trends-lower">Stock Of The Day: Trump Media &amp; Technology Hits Resistance, Reverses And Trends Lower</a></li>
</ul>
Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

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Trump's Win Sends Indices To Record Highs; Financials, Small Caps Surge, Bitcoin Tops $75,000: What's Driving Markets Wednesday?

Earnings Guidance and Financial Update
Sempra is updating its full-year 2024 GAAP earnings-per-common share (EPS) guidance range to $4.86 to $5.16 reflecting actual results through the third quarter and affirming its full-year 2024 adjusted EPS guidance range of $4.60 to $4.90. The company is also affirming its full-year 2025 EPS guidance range of $4.90 to $5.25.
In addition, the company has put in place a $3 billion at-the-market (ATM) equity offering program to support general corporate purposes including its future financing needs and is also affirming its projected long-term EPS growth rate of approximately 6% to 8%.

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