AEP

In the past six months, AEP's stock has been significantly impacted by strong financial performance and an increased capital investment plan. The company reported robust first-quarter 2026 earnings, with GAAP earnings of $1.61 per share and operating earnings of $1.64 per share, surpassing analyst estimates. AEP reaffirmed its full-year 2026 operating earnings guidance. A major driver for investor interest has been the surging electricity demand from data centers and other large industrial customers across AEP's service territory. In response to this demand, AEP increased its five-year capital investment plan to $78 billion, up from $72 billion, with expectations for nearly 11% annual rate-base growth and an operating earnings compound annual growth rate (CAGR) above 9% through 2030. This increased capital plan and strong demand growth have been viewed positively by investors and analysts, leading to lifted price targets and a "Moderate Buy" rating for the stock. Over the past 52 weeks, AEP's stock has traded between a low of $97.46 and a high of $138.49.