Stifel Increases Price Target for Northwestern Natural (NWN)
Company Overview: Northwest Natural Holding Company (NYSE:NWN) operates natural gas and water utilities in the Pacific Northwest and Texas, and has been recognized as one of the 14 best utility dividend stocks to buy now.
Stock Performance: Following a mixed third-quarter report, Stifel analyst Selman Akyol raised NWN's price target from $50 to $52 while maintaining a 'Buy' rating, despite the company missing revenue expectations.
Financial Highlights: NWN reported an adjusted loss per share of $0.73, which beat estimates, and a revenue of $164.7 million, which fell short of expectations, although it experienced a 20% year-over-year revenue increase.
Dividend Commitment: The company has increased its dividend for the fourth quarter, marking the 70th consecutive year of annual dividend increases, making it one of only three companies on the NYSE with such a record.
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- Federal Award: A federal agency has awarded a contract worth $151 billion for missile defense systems.
- Contract Details: The contract is specifically for the development of advanced vehicles related to missile defense operations.
- Dividend Declaration: Northwest Natural Holding has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.4925 per share, consistent with previous payouts, demonstrating the company's ongoing ability to maintain stable cash flows and bolster investor confidence.
- Yield Performance: The forward yield of 4.19% not only attracts income-seeking investors but also reflects the company's competitiveness in the current market environment, enhancing its appeal.
- Shareholder Arrangements: The dividend will be payable on February 13, 2024, with a record date of January 30, 2024, and an ex-dividend date also set for January 30, ensuring shareholders receive timely returns and increasing shareholder satisfaction.
- Growth Outlook: Northwest Natural signals an annual EPS growth outlook of 4% to 6%, supported by its expanding footprint in Texas, indicating the company's growth potential and strategic positioning in the market.
- Quarterly Dividend Announcement: The Board of Directors of Northwest Natural Holding Company has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.4925 per share, to be paid on February 13, 2026, indicating the company's ongoing cash flow and shareholder return capabilities.
- Annual Dividend Rate: The company's indicated annual dividend rate stands at $1.97 per share, reflecting its stable profitability and commitment to shareholders, which helps attract long-term investors.
- Broad Business Coverage: Northwest Natural Holding Company, through its subsidiaries, provides energy and water services to over one million users, demonstrating its market leadership and service capabilities across seven states.
- Industry Recognition: The company has been recognized by Ethisphere® as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies for four consecutive years, highlighting its commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and community responsibility, which further enhances its brand image.
- Quarterly Dividend Announcement: Northwest Natural Holding Company has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.4925 per share, payable on February 13, 2026, which demonstrates the company's ongoing commitment to shareholder returns and is expected to bolster investor confidence.
- Annual Dividend Rate: The company has an indicated annual dividend rate of $1.97 per share, reflecting stable cash flow and profitability, further solidifying its market position in the energy sector.
- Extensive Business Coverage: Through its subsidiaries, Northwest Natural Holding Company provides critical energy and water services to over one million meters across seven states, showcasing its strong influence and market share in the public utility sector.
- Industry Recognition: The company has been recognized by Ethisphere® as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for four consecutive years, indicating its long-standing commitment to safety and environmental stewardship, which helps enhance brand image and customer loyalty.

- Leadership Transition: MardiLyn Saathoff, General Counsel of NW Natural Holdings, announced her retirement effective April 1, 2026, after nearly 18 years, during which she played a critical role in guiding the company's evolution from a natural gas utility to a diversified enterprise.
- Succession Planning: The Board has appointed Megan H. Berge as the new SVP and General Counsel, effective January 1, 2026, bringing a respected background in environmental law that is expected to provide fresh strategic insights for the company.
- Legal and Compliance Oversight: Saathoff will continue as Chief Legal Officer until her retirement, overseeing essential functions such as regulation, business continuity, and corporate security, ensuring legal compliance and business stability during the transition.
- Industry Impact: With over 166 years of history, NW Natural Holdings has maintained a commitment to safety and environmental stewardship, and Saathoff's leadership has earned the company recognition as one of the

- Executive Retirement: MardiLyn Saathoff, General Counsel of NW Natural Holdings, announced her retirement effective April 1, 2026, after nearly 18 years of service, during which she played a pivotal role in transforming the company from a natural gas utility to a diversified enterprise.
- Succession Planning: The Board has appointed Megan H. Berge as the new SVP and General Counsel, effective January 1, 2026, who previously served as Deputy General Counsel and brings extensive legal and compliance experience to the role.
- Industry Recognition: Berge is nationally recognized in environmental law, having been named a leading lawyer by Chambers and Partners, which underscores the company's commitment to high standards and expertise in legal matters.
- Company Background: NW Natural Holdings has been providing energy and water services to over one million meters for more than 166 years, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to safety and environmental stewardship.






