Just Energy Group (JE) Now A Strong Buy On Solid Prospects

Zacks Investment Research upgraded Just Energy Group Inc. (TO:JE) to a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) on Jul 8, 2016. Going by the Zacks model, companies sporting a Zacks Rank #1 have strong chances of outperforming the broader market over the next few quarters.

Why the Upgrade?

Market sentiments have been favoring Just Energy Group, as evident from the fiscal year-to-date return of roughly 2.7%. Also, the company’s financial performance has been impressive in two out of the trailing four quarters. Average earnings surprise for the trailing four quarters is a positive 134.17%. Last quarter, the company’s adjusted earnings of 12 cents per share and revenues of $784 million exceeded their respective Zacks Consensus Estimate by 20% and 9.9%.

For fiscal 2017 (ending Mar 2017), Just Energy Group anticipates growth on the back of new and improved product offerings and business expansion in new countries. Also, the company expects the restructuring done in fiscal 2016 to yield benefits in the year, enabling it to achieve base earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization in the range of $223−$233 million.

Impressive financial results and future outlook have boosted investors’ optimism regarding Just Energy Group’s prospects. Over the last 60 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the stock has increased 19.2% to 31 cents per share for fiscal 2017 and 85% to 37 cents for fiscal 2018. Also, the company has an Earnings ESP of +48.39% fiscal 2017 and +43.24% for fiscal 2018.

JUST ENERGY GRP Price and Consensus

JUST ENERGY GRP Price and Consensus | JUST ENERGY GRP Quote

Other Stocks to Consider

Just Energy Group currently has a market capitalization of approximately $885 million. Other stocks worth considering in the industry include National Fuel Gas Company (NYSE:NFG) , Spire Inc. (NYSE:SR) and MDU Resources Group Inc. (NYSE:MDU) . All these stocks carry a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).