Essential Utilities, Inc.: Can Its Acquisition Strategy & Customer Growth Help Tilt The Competitive Dynamics In Its Favor? 

Essential Utilities delivered a robust performance in the third quarter of 2024, showcasing both strategic advancements and operational challenges. The company reported earnings per share (EPS) of $0.25, surpassing expectations, although it was a dip from the $0.30 EPS in the same period of the previous year. This decline from last year was primarily due to the absence of significant onetime tax benefits that positively impacted the previous year’s EPS. Notably, revenue increased to $435.3 million, up 6% from $411.3 million in Q3 2023, driven by regulatory recoveries, increased water sales, and surcharges.