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FirstEnergy (FE)
NYSE:FE

FirstEnergy (FE) AI Stock Analysis

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FE

FirstEnergy

(NYSE:FE)

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Neutral 64 (OpenAI - 5.2)
Rating:64Neutral
Price Target:
$52.00
▲(3.59% Upside)
Action:ReiteratedDate:02/19/26
The score is driven primarily by stable-to-improving fundamentals (revenue/earnings and 2025 cash-flow rebound) but held back by high leverage and ongoing financing dependence. Technicals are supportive with a strong uptrend, though momentum appears overextended. Valuation is the main secondary drag due to a high P/E, partly cushioned by a ~3.6% dividend yield.
Positive Factors
Stable regulated revenues
FirstEnergy’s core regulated delivery business shows steady top-line growth, driven by stable residential, commercial and industrial demand and approved rate mechanisms. That predictability underpins durable cash flow and supports multi-year investment plans and dividend capacity despite cyclical headwinds.
Large capex to grow rate base
An accelerated $36B Energize365 plan focused on transmission and formula‑rate projects drives roughly 10% rate‑base CAGR and targeted EPS growth. Because most spending sits in formula or transmission recovery mechanisms, the program can sustainably expand regulated earnings and long-term utility value if approvals proceed.
Improved cash flow & cost discipline
Cash generation recovered materially in 2025, with OCF and FCF improving and meaningful O&M savings realized. This strengthens internal funding for a large capex slate, reduces near‑term external financing needs, and improves the firm’s ability to service debt and sustain dividends over the multi-year plan.
Negative Factors
Elevated leverage
Leverage remains high even for a regulated utility, constraining financial flexibility. Large upcoming debt issuances and elevated debt-to-equity raise refinancing and interest coverage risk, making the company more sensitive to rate recovery timing and capital market conditions during the multi-year capex ramp.
CapEx execution & regulatory dependency
A near‑30% increase in five‑year investments intensifies project, supply‑chain and labor demands. Because much recovery depends on multi‑jurisdictional approvals and PJM outcomes, delays or unfavorable rulings could defer cash recovery and compress returns, heightening long‑term execution risk.
Legacy regulatory penalties & scrutiny
Recent Ohio penalties and legacy issues increase regulatory scrutiny and political sensitivity around rate cases. That can limit recovery flexibility, prolong case timelines, and raise compliance and reputational costs, creating a structural constraint on earnings durability across affected jurisdictions.

FirstEnergy (FE) vs. SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY)

FirstEnergy Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionFirstEnergy Corp., through its subsidiaries, generates, transmits, and distributes electricity in the United States. It operates through Regulated Distribution and Regulated Transmission segments. The company owns and operates coal-fired, nuclear, hydroelectric, natural gas, wind, and solar power generating facilities. It operates 24,074 circuit miles of overhead and underground transmission lines; and electric distribution systems, including 273,295 miles of overhead pole line and underground conduit carrying primary, secondary, and street lighting circuits. The company serves approximately 6 million customers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, and New York. FirstEnergy Corp. was incorporated in 1996 and is headquartered in Akron, Ohio.
How the Company Makes MoneyFirstEnergy generates revenue primarily through the delivery of electricity to its customers, which includes residential, commercial, and industrial segments. The company earns money by charging customers for the electricity they consume, as well as through transmission and distribution fees. Significant revenue streams include regulated utility operations, which are governed by state public utility commissions and provide a stable income through approved rate structures. Additionally, FirstEnergy derives income from ancillary services related to grid management and reliability. The company also engages in energy efficiency programs and demand response initiatives, often receiving incentives and rebates for reducing energy consumption. FirstEnergy's partnerships with regional transmission organizations (RTOs) and its participation in wholesale electricity markets further contribute to its earnings by allowing the company to optimize its energy generation and transmission capabilities.

FirstEnergy Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Any
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Revenue by Type
Revenue by Type
Chart Insights
Data provided by:The Fly

FirstEnergy Earnings Call Summary

Earnings Call Date:Feb 17, 2026
(Q4-2025)
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% Change Since: |
Next Earnings Date:Apr 23, 2026
Earnings Call Sentiment Positive
The call conveyed a predominantly positive outlook: management reported solid 2025 financial results (core EPS +7.6%), improved reliability metrics, strong cash flow, a constructive ratings action, and announced an accelerated $36B five‑year capital plan that supports targeted earnings growth (6%–8% CAGR). Key lowlights were execution and timing risks tied to the large CapEx ramp, substantial asset renewal needs, regulatory and PJM dependencies, and affordability/policy pressures in several jurisdictions. On balance, the highlights (growth, cash generation, ratings upgrade, disciplined financing and cost savings) materially outweigh the identified risks, though successful execution and regulatory approvals will be critical to realize the plan.
Q4-2025 Updates
Positive Updates
Core EPS Growth
Core earnings per share of $2.55 in 2025, a 7.6% increase versus 2024 and ~2% above the company’s original guidance midpoint; positions company to deliver a targeted core EPS CAGR near the top end of 6%–8% from 2026–2030.
GAAP Earnings and ROE Improvement
2025 GAAP earnings per share of $1.77 versus $1.70 in 2024 (≈4.1% increase); consolidated earned ROE of 9.8% on $27.8B rate base versus 9.4% on $25.6B in 2024 (40 bps improvement).
Aggressive Five-Year Capital Program
Announced a $36,000,000,000 five-year capital investment program (nearly 30% increase vs prior five-year plan) focused on reliability and resiliency, with ~$19,000,000,000 targeted to transmission (a ~35% increase vs prior plan).
Strong 2025 CapEx Execution and Cash Flow
Deployed $5.6B in customer-focused capital investments in 2025 (≈25% above 2024 and ~12% above original plan); cash from operations of $3.7B, more than $800M above 2024 levels; cash from operations expected to fund ~65% of total investment plan.
Improved Reliability Metrics
Distribution reliability metrics improved ~10% systemwide versus 2024, with notable year‑over‑year improvements in New Jersey and Pennsylvania where commission‑approved programs are in place.
Balance Sheet and Financing Progress
Completed $3.4B of subsidiary debt issuances and a $2.5B convertible debt transaction in 2025; debt financing plan includes $16B of new long‑term debt, FE Corp debt share reduced to ~20% of total debt (from 25% prior); equity needs limited to up to $2.0B over the plan (including $100M annual DRIP).
Positive Credit Action and Cost Discipline
Constructive regulatory outcomes in Ohio contributed to an S&P upgrade to BBB (senior unsecured); company cites baseline O&M savings of ~15% (over $200M) since 2022, supporting affordability and disciplined execution.
Data Center and Incremental Growth Opportunities
13 GW data center pipeline through 2035 (with active and contracted customers); planned 1.2 GW combined‑cycle CCGT in West Virginia ($2.5B project to be added to plan upon approval) would raise consolidated rate base CAGR from 10% to ~11% and unlock further regional generation/transmission opportunities.
Negative Updates
Large Asset Renewal Need
Approximately 70% of transmission lines and 30% of major substation assets are expected to reach end of life over the next decade, requiring substantial ongoing investment and creating execution and timing risk for the capital program.
Execution Risks from CapEx Step‑Up
Significant step‑up in capital spend (~$36B plan) creates execution risk (labor, supplier and project management constraints), although management states they have relationships and internal capabilities to execute; near‑term supplier tightness noted.
Regulatory and Approval Dependencies
A material portion of future recovery depends on regulatory approvals and PJM outcomes (e.g., West Virginia certificate/CWIP, DOE loan approval, PJM open window awards and stakeholder changes); delays or unfavorable rulings could affect recovery timing and earnings.
Concentration of Investments Outside Formula Recovery
While ~75% of investments are in formula rate programs, the remaining investments require base rate cases in multiple jurisdictions (Maryland, West Virginia, Ohio three‑year plan), exposing the company to timing and outcome risk on recovery.
Affordability and Policy Pressure
Heightened political/regulatory focus on customer affordability (e.g., Maryland Lower Bills Act, New Jersey executive orders); although company asserts bills remain ≈20% below in‑state peers, policy initiatives could constrain recovery mechanisms or increase rate case scrutiny.
Legacy Issues and Penalties in Ohio
Company paid a significant penalty related to legacy matters in Ohio (punishment phase) and while settled, these legacy issues required attention and created reputational and financial headwinds in recent periods.
Potential Dilution and Financing Needs
Equity needs of up to $2.0B (including DRIP and potential equity‑like securities) and $16B planned debt issuances introduce financing and dilution considerations; execution depends on market access and capital market conditions.
PJM Market and Resource Adequacy Uncertainty
Ongoing PJM stakeholder discussions on capacity/market design create uncertainty around regional resource adequacy and market revenues; reliance on market reforms or alternative procurement mechanisms adds policy and timing risk to generation strategy.
Company Guidance
The company guided to a $36,000,000,000 five‑year capital program (nearly 30% above the prior plan) driving roughly 10% consolidated rate‑base growth through 2030 (rising to ~11% if the $2,500,000,000 West Virginia CCGT is approved), with $19,000,000,000 targeted to transmission (a 35% increase) and 75% of total investments in formula‑rate programs; management expects core EPS to compound near the top end of 6%–8% CAGR from 2026–2030 (core EPS was $2.55 in 2025; GAAP $1.77), targets a consolidated earned ROE of 9.5%–10%, and assumes ~2% customer demand growth (5% industrial). Financing plans fund ~65% of the plan from cash from operations (2025 cash from ops ~$3.7B), include ~$16B new long‑term debt, up to $2B equity need (including a $100M annual DRIP), and for the WV plant target a 50% DOE loan, ~15% CWIP/cash recovery during construction and ~35% new equity; other metrics cited: 2025 investments $5.6B (≈25% above 2024), distribution reliability improved 10%, baseline O&M savings ~15% (> $200M since 2022), declared dividends $1.78 (up 5%), and an approximate 12% total shareholder return opportunity.

FirstEnergy Financial Statement Overview

Summary
Operations look stable-to-improving with consistent revenue growth and better 2025 profitability plus a sharp rebound in operating cash flow and free cash flow. The key offset is a constrained balance sheet: leverage remains high (debt-to-equity ~2.10) with rising total debt, limiting flexibility and increasing financing sensitivity.
Income Statement
68
Positive
Revenue has grown consistently from 2021–2025 (2025 up ~4.3%), supporting a steady top-line profile typical of a regulated utility. Profitability is mixed: net margin improved versus 2024 (about 8.4% vs. 7.3%) and net income rose to ~$1.27B, but margins are still below 2021 levels and operating profit measures show volatility (including an apparent anomaly in 2025 operating margin reporting). Overall, the income statement reflects stable demand and improving earnings, but with uneven margin quality year-to-year.
Balance Sheet
49
Neutral
Leverage is the key constraint. Total debt increased to ~$26.2B in 2025 and debt remains high relative to equity (debt-to-equity ~2.10 in 2025), which limits financial flexibility even for a regulated business model. Positively, equity has grown versus 2020–2021 and return on equity improved in 2025 (~10.2% vs. ~7.9% in 2024), indicating better profitability on the capital base. Still, the balance sheet is burdened by elevated leverage and a rising debt load.
Cash Flow
57
Neutral
Cash generation improved meaningfully in 2025 with operating cash flow rising to ~$3.7B (up from ~$2.9B in 2024) and free cash flow turning strongly positive (~$3.7B) after multiple years of negative free cash flow (2022–2024). However, cash flow volatility is a concern: free cash flow swung from deeply negative in 2023–2024 to sharply positive in 2025, suggesting timing/capex variability. Operating cash flow is healthy in absolute dollars, but debt-related coverage metrics appear uneven across years, reinforcing that cash consistency still needs monitoring.
BreakdownDec 2025Dec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021
Income Statement
Total Revenue15.09B13.47B12.87B12.46B11.13B
Gross Profit8.27B9.10B8.22B7.87B7.69B
EBITDA4.39B4.10B3.95B3.77B4.29B
Net Income1.27B978.00M1.10B406.00M1.28B
Balance Sheet
Total Assets55.90B52.04B48.77B46.11B45.43B
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments99.00M111.00M137.00M160.00M1.46B
Total Debt27.07B24.27B24.91B21.66B23.85B
Total Liabilities41.98B38.32B37.85B35.47B36.76B
Stockholders Equity12.51B12.46B10.44B10.17B8.68B
Cash Flow
Free Cash Flow-1.00B-1.14B-1.97B-73.00M366.00M
Operating Cash Flow3.70B2.89B1.39B2.68B2.81B
Investing Cash Flow-5.07B-4.35B-3.65B-3.08B-2.56B
Financing Cash Flow1.31B1.43B2.24B-912.00M-542.00M

FirstEnergy Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Positive
Last Price50.20
Price Trends
50DMA
45.85
Positive
100DMA
45.75
Positive
200DMA
43.37
Positive
Market Momentum
MACD
1.07
Negative
RSI
72.28
Negative
STOCH
79.19
Neutral
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For FE, the sentiment is Positive. The current price of 50.2 is above the 20-day moving average (MA) of 47.59, above the 50-day MA of 45.85, and above the 200-day MA of 43.37, indicating a bullish trend. The MACD of 1.07 indicates Negative momentum. The RSI at 72.28 is Negative, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 79.19 is Neutral, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Positive sentiment for FE.

FirstEnergy Risk Analysis

FirstEnergy disclosed 47 risk factors in its most recent earnings report. FirstEnergy reported the most risks in the "Legal & Regulatory" category.
Finance & Corporate - Financial and accounting risks. Risks related to the execution of corporate activity and strategy
Latest Risks Added 0 New Risks

FirstEnergy Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (66)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
68
Neutral
$29.30B20.2511.41%2.86%22.71%22.86%
68
Neutral
$27.23B25.058.15%3.13%8.42%32.48%
66
Neutral
$23.02B21.3112.33%3.10%10.96%-0.77%
66
Neutral
$26.93B15.7210.84%4.54%13.12%
66
Neutral
$17.65B18.105.60%3.62%6.62%11.55%
64
Neutral
$28.27B27.738.17%3.94%7.64%48.61%
62
Neutral
$29.64B20.2312.16%3.45%19.42%-9.68%
* Utilities Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
FE
FirstEnergy
50.20
9.00
21.84%
AEE
Ameren
110.05
14.03
14.61%
CMS
CMS Energy
75.86
5.86
8.37%
DTE
DTE Energy
145.00
16.94
13.23%
ES
Eversource Energy
73.56
13.41
22.30%
PPL
PPL
37.44
3.65
10.82%

FirstEnergy Corporate Events

Business Operations and StrategyFinancial Disclosures
FirstEnergy Posts Strong 2025 Results, Expands Capital Plan
Positive
Feb 17, 2026

FirstEnergy reported 2025 GAAP earnings of $1.02 billion, or $1.77 per basic share, on $15.1 billion in revenue, with Core Earnings of $2.55 per share, up 7.6% from 2024 and at the top end of its revised guidance range. The results, released on February 17, 2026, were driven by new Pennsylvania base rates, strong transmission rate base growth of nearly 11%, stronger distribution sales and increased stand-alone transmission investment, partly offset by higher operating and financing costs and regulatory charges in Ohio.

The company affirmed its 2026 Core Earnings guidance of $2.62 to $2.82 per share and unveiled a $36 billion Energize365 capital program for 2026–2030, including more than $19 billion for transmission, representing a near-30% increase over its prior five-year plan. This expanded investment slate is expected to deliver 10% annual rate base growth and Core EPS CAGR near the top of a 6–8% range through 2030, underscoring FirstEnergy’s strategy to strengthen grid resilience and support growing demand while signaling sustained earnings and dividend capacity for investors.

The most recent analyst rating on (FE) stock is a Buy with a $50.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on FirstEnergy stock, see the FE Stock Forecast page.

Executive/Board Changes
FirstEnergy announces routine board change as director departs
Neutral
Feb 12, 2026

On February 8, 2026, FirstEnergy Corp. announced that board member Melvin Williams notified the company he will not stand for re-election after his current term ends at the 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. The company emphasized that Williams’s decision was not the result of any disagreement over FirstEnergy’s operations, policies or practices, suggesting an orderly and non-contentious board transition for stakeholders.

The departure reflects routine board refreshment rather than signaling governance conflict or strategic dispute within the utility. Investors and other stakeholders are likely to view the change as a standard succession event, with limited direct impact on FirstEnergy’s ongoing operations or regulatory posture.

The most recent analyst rating on (FE) stock is a Buy with a $50.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on FirstEnergy stock, see the FE Stock Forecast page.

Business Operations and StrategyFinancial Disclosures
FirstEnergy Releases 2026 Financial Outlook and Guidance
Positive
Dec 9, 2025

On December 9, 2025, FirstEnergy Corp. released its 2026 financial outlook, highlighting a Core Earnings guidance of $2.62 to $2.82 per share, supported by $6 billion in planned capital investments. This represents a 7.5% growth over the increased 2025 guidance midpoint. The company also affirmed its 6-8% compound annual growth rate through 2029, with investments focused on distribution infrastructure and grid modernization, aiming to enhance reliability and resiliency.

The most recent analyst rating on (FE) stock is a Hold with a $49.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on FirstEnergy stock, see the FE Stock Forecast page.

Business Operations and StrategyLegal ProceedingsRegulatory Filings and Compliance
FirstEnergy Faces $250.7 Million Order from Ohio Commission
Negative
Nov 20, 2025

On November 19, 2025, FirstEnergy‘s Ohio subsidiaries received orders from the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio regarding their 2024 base rate case and consolidated audits. The orders include significant financial implications, such as a combined payment of $250.7 million for refunds, restitution, and civil forfeitures. These developments mark important milestones for FirstEnergy, as they continue to invest in distribution system improvements and prepare to file a three-year rate plan in early 2026, aiming to enhance reliability and customer experience.

The most recent analyst rating on (FE) stock is a Hold with a $50.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on FirstEnergy stock, see the FE Stock Forecast page.

Glossary
BuyA stock rated as a "Buy" is expected to perform better than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock is likely to deliver higher returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
HoldA stock rated as a "Hold" is expected to perform in line with the overall market or a specific benchmark. This rating indicates that the stock is neither particularly compelling nor unfavorable for investment. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
SellA stock rated as a "Sell" is expected to perform worse than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock may deliver lower returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.

Disclaimer

This AI Analyst Stock Report is automatically generated by our AI systems using advanced algorithms and publicly available financial, technical, and market data. While the information provided aims to be accurate and insightful, it is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Any content created by an AI (Artificial Intelligence) system may contain inaccuracies and/or contain errors. Investing in stocks carries inherent risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results. This report does not account for your personal financial circumstances, objectives, or risk tolerance. Always conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The analysis and recommendations provided are based on historical and current data and may not fully reflect future market conditions or unexpected developments. Neither the creators of this report nor its affiliated entities guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. Use this report at your own discretion and risk.Date of analysis: Feb 19, 2026