Essential Utilities Management
Management criteria checks 3/4
Essential Utilities' CEO is Chris Franklin, appointed in Jul 2015, has a tenure of 11.17 years. total yearly compensation is $9.21M, comprised of 12% salary and 88% bonuses, including company stock and options. directly owns 0.12% of the company’s shares, worth $14.35M. The average tenure of the management team and the board of directors is 9.3 years and 5.2 years respectively.
Key information
Chris Franklin
Chief executive officer
US$9.2m
Total compensation
| CEO salary percentage | 11.98% |
| CEO tenure | 11.2yrs |
| CEO ownership | 0.1% |
| Management average tenure | 9.3yrs |
| Board average tenure | 5.2yrs |
Recent management updates
Recent updates
Seeking Alpha • Sep 09
Essential Utilities: Limited Upside Ahead Of The American Water Merger
Summary Essential Utilities is rated Hold, anchored by a pending merger with American Water and a $42 price target. The merger’s fixed exchange ratio ties WTRG’s price to AWK, with a modest spread reflecting deal risk and timing. Dividend yield is attractive at 3.5%, but Q2 missed on EPS and revenue, and Pennsylvania regulatory risk is rising. WTRG’s upside is limited; most return comes from the dividend, with key risks in deal approval, AWK’s valuation, and PA rate cases. Read the full article on Seeking Alpha
Narrative Update • Jul 10
WTRG: Merger Progress And Pennsylvania Decisions Will Shape Steady Future Returns
Analysts have raised their price target on Essential Utilities to $46, citing updated fair value estimates of $41.20 and expectations related to the planned merger with American Water. This includes potential regulatory outcomes in Pennsylvania, as well as a long-term growth outlook and credit profile that they view as relatively low risk.Narrative Update • Jun 25
WTRG: Merger Approvals And Stable Outlook Will Shape Measured Future Returns
Analysts have trimmed their fair value estimate for Essential Utilities to $39.80 from $40.80, citing updated assumptions around revenue growth, profit margins, and future P/E, alongside mixed signals from recent sector price target moves and the anticipated American Water merger. Analyst Commentary Recent research on Essential Utilities highlights both optimism around the planned American Water merger and caution about near term execution and valuation, giving investors a mixed but useful reference point as they weigh the stock against the updated fair value estimate.Analysis Article • Jun 22
Essential Utilities (WTRG) Stock Could Be 10% Undervalued As Institutional Support Builds
Institutional investors increase their stake in Essential Utilities A sharp rise in institutional ownership has put Essential Utilities (WTRG) in focus after large shareholders, including ETHSX, expanded their positions and lifted the company to 5th place in its industry by institutional holding. See our latest analysis for Essential Utilities. At a share price of $36.70, Essential Utilities has seen its share price decline over the past quarter and year to date, while the 1 year total...Narrative Update • Jun 06
WTRG: Merger Progress And Steady Assumptions Will Guide Balanced Future Outlook
Analysts have nudged their fair value estimate for Essential Utilities slightly higher, from $40.40 to $40.80. This reflects updated price targets around $43 and views that the planned American Water merger, along with the company's stable credit profile and lower risk growth plan, support some additional upside potential.Narrative Update • May 23
WTRG: Updated Discount Rate And P/E Assumptions Will Shape Steady Outlook
Analysts have trimmed their price target on Essential Utilities by $0.80 to $40.40, reflecting updated views on fair value, a slightly higher discount rate and modestly adjusted assumptions for revenue growth, profit margin and future P/E. Valuation Changes Fair Value: trimmed from $41.20 to $40.40, a small downward adjustment of about 1.9%.Narrative Update • Apr 24
WTRG: Updated Fair Value And P/E Assumptions Will Guide Balanced Outlook
Analysts have nudged their price target on Essential Utilities higher from $40.60 to $41.20, reflecting updated assumptions for fair value, discount rate, revenue growth, profit margin and future P/E that slightly adjust their overall outlook. Valuation Changes Fair Value: Adjusted slightly from $40.60 to $41.20, indicating a modest upward revision in the estimated share value.Narrative Update • Apr 08
WTRG: Pending Merger Approval Will Shape Risk Balance And Support Fair Value
Analysts have maintained Essential Utilities' fair value estimate at $40.60. Recent commentary notes that although the potential merger path is described as long, it could address key bear-case concerns if it is ultimately approved.Narrative Update • Mar 24
WTRG: Pending Merger Path And 2026 Vote Will Shape Risk Balance
Analysts have adjusted their price target on Essential Utilities to $40.60, reflecting updated views on profit margins and P/E assumptions, with some pointing to potential benefits if the proposed merger with American Water gains approval. Analyst Commentary Bullish Takeaways Bullish analysts view the proposed merger path as a potential way to address prior concerns around valuation, with the combined platform seen as better positioned to support the current P/E assumptions behind the updated US$40.60 target.Narrative Update • Mar 10
WTRG: Pending Merger And 2026 Vote Will Frame Balanced Risk Outlook
Analysts have trimmed their price target on Essential Utilities to about $40.60 from roughly $41.40, citing updated assumptions for revenue growth, profit margins and future P/E multiples, while monitoring how the potential merger outcome could influence the bear case on the stock. Analyst Commentary Recent research on American Water highlights how the proposed merger with Essential Utilities could reshape the risk and reward conversation for Essential shareholders, even though the approval process is expected to be lengthy.Narrative Update • Feb 24
WTRG: Pending Merger And 2026 Meeting Will Shape Balanced Risk Profile
Analysts have trimmed their average price target for Essential Utilities to about $41.40, roughly $0.77 lower than before. They are factoring in updated fair value estimates and the potential impact of the proposed merger, which has influenced views across the water utility group.Narrative Update • Feb 08
WTRG: Pending Merger And Special Meeting Will Shape Bullish Return Profile
Analysts have lowered their price target on Essential Utilities to about US$42.17 from US$43.00. This change reflects updated assumptions for slightly different fair value, discount rate, growth, and margin profiles in light of the potential merger impact highlighted in recent research.Narrative Update • Jan 24
WTRG: All Stock Merger And Neutral Views Will Shape Future Return Profile
Analysts have maintained their fair value estimate for Essential Utilities at $43.00 as they weigh the modest merger premium, the all-stock structure, and the long timeline to potential regulatory approval highlighted in recent research. Analyst Commentary Bullish Takeaways Bullish analysts see the merger structure as a potential way to address prior concerns around the combined company, arguing that if the deal is approved it could be harder for skeptics to challenge the investment case.Narrative Update • Jan 08
WTRG: All Stock Merger Terms Will Support Long Term Upside Potential
Analysts now see fair value for Essential Utilities at about $43.00 per share, broadly in line with recent price targets clustered around $43 to $46. This reflects a reset in expectations after the announced all stock merger with American Water.Narrative Update • Dec 25
WTRG: All Stock Merger Premium Will Drive Long Term Upside Outlook
We trim our analyst price target for Essential Utilities to $43.00 from $43.71 as analysts recalibrate expectations following multiple downgrades tied to the announced all stock merger with American Water. Despite solid long term fundamentals, the deal is viewed as offering a relatively modest headline premium and a more balanced near term risk reward profile.Narrative Update • Dec 11
WTRG: Modest Merger Premium Will Shape Long Term Upside Potential
Analysts have lowered their price targets on Essential Utilities by a few dollars into the low to mid $40s. This reflects a more cautious stance on the announced all stock merger with American Water and its relatively modest implied premium.Narrative Update • Nov 26
WTRG: Merger Closing Delay And Modest Premium Will Shape Shareholder Outlook
Analysts have reduced their price targets for Essential Utilities, with average targets now ranging from $43 to $46. This follows the company's announced merger with American Water, as analysts cite a relatively modest premium and new merger dynamics.Narrative Update • Nov 12
WTRG: All-Stock Merger Will Shape Earnings Outlook Amid Downgrades
Analysts have reduced their average price target for Essential Utilities to approximately $44 from prior levels near $47. They cite the company's recently announced all-stock merger with American Water as the primary driver behind the downgrade.Narrative Update • Oct 28
Merger And Sector Downgrades Will Shift Water Demand Outlook Forward
Analysts have lowered their average price target for Essential Utilities from $45.75 to $43.71 per share, citing the announced merger with American Water as well as recent downgrades across the sector. Analyst Commentary Following the announced merger with American Water, analyst sentiment on Essential Utilities has shifted, with perspectives ranging from cautious to selectively optimistic.Narrative Update • Oct 04
Infrastructure Investments And Urbanization Will Drive Water Demand
Essential Utilities' analyst price target has been revised downward from $46.38 to $45.75 per share. This reflects analyst views that, while the company's growth prospects and industry positioning remain solid, updated valuation assumptions modestly temper expectations.Narrative Update • Sep 04
Infrastructure Investments And Urbanization Will Drive Water Demand
Analysts maintained a positive outlook on Essential Utilities, citing reaffirmed EPS growth guidance, strong sector positioning, and consistent execution, resulting in an unchanged consensus price target of $46.38. Analyst Commentary Management's reaffirmation of long-term annual EPS growth guidance of 5%-7%.Seeking Alpha • Mar 10
Essential Utilities' Secret Growth Engine: PFAS Rules Fuel Expansion
Summary Essential Utilities stock is rated a "Buy" due to its strategic acquisitions of smaller utilities struggling with new PFAS regulations. Management's focus on PFAS mitigation and a $7.8 billion capital investment plan position WTRG for long-term growth and regulatory compliance. Despite missing EPS estimates, WTRG's strong financials and successful rate settlements in Pennsylvania support its 5-7% annual EPS growth target. Risks include regulatory approval for acquisitions and potential stricter PFAS standards, but these also present further acquisition opportunities. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Dec 29
Essential Utilities: A SWAN Utility That Screens Cheap
Summary Essential Utilities is a Dividend Aristocrat with 33 years of consecutive dividend growth, offering a compelling investment opportunity at a 25% discount to fair value. The company’s five-year capital spending plan and strong A- credit rating support its targeted annual EPS growth rate of 5%-7% through 2026. WTRG's third-quarter results show solid revenue growth, driven by its Regulated Water segment, despite a 16.7% decline in diluted EPS. With a low payout ratio and consistent dividend growth, WTRG is poised to continue its impressive dividend streak, making it an attractive investment. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Nov 25
Essential Utilities: Undervalued In A Defensive Sector
Summary Essential Utilities' strong regulatory position and $7.8B capital investment plan are supportive of long-term earnings growth and consistent shareholder returns. Recent quarterly results included a 5.8% YoY revenue increase, driven by higher water sales and regulatory recoveries, with EPS narrowly beating expectations. The company is also committed to dividend growth, with a current forward yield of over 3.25%, and the stock valuation remains favorable compared to recent historical averages. Risks include regulatory delays, weather volatility, and potential capital constraints should interest rates remain elevated and/or the equity market experience a sharp and sustained decline. Overall, Essential Utilities offers reliable income with steady growth potential. I maintain a Buy rating. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Sep 15
Essential Utilities: Buy This Dividend Compounder On Sale Now
Summary In the world of dividend growth stocks, water utilities often stand out as shining stars. Essential Utilities' path to 5% to 7% long-term annual adjusted diluted EPS growth remains intact. The water utility targets a conservative debt-to-capital ratio and enjoys a high interest coverage ratio. Shares of Essential Utilities appear to be priced at a 19% discount to fair value. The stock could be positioned for 43% cumulative total returns by the end of 2026. Read the full article on Seeking Alpha
New Narrative • Aug 22
Innovative Strategies And Environmental Initiatives Propel Growth Amid Regulatory Changes
Implementation of weather normalization and regulatory approval process reform in Pennsylvania are expected to stabilize earnings and support revenue growth through acquisitions.Seeking Alpha • Jul 16
Essential Utilities: A Solid Replacement For T-Bills And Money Markets
Summary Essential Utilities offers a dividend yield of over 3% and is priced well below its historical valuation averages. The company has shown strong profitability metrics and EPS growth over the past decade. I rate Essential Utilities a Buy based on the current share price, which may be undervalued by as much as 20%. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaCEO Compensation Analysis
| Date | Total Compensation | Salary | Company Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jun 30 2026 | n/a | n/a | US$555m |
| Mar 31 2026 | n/a | n/a | US$557m |
| Dec 31 2025 | US$9m | US$1m | US$616m |
| Sep 30 2025 | n/a | n/a | US$668m |
| Jun 30 2025 | n/a | n/a | US$646m |
| Mar 31 2025 | n/a | n/a | US$613m |
| Dec 31 2024 | US$6m | US$1m | US$595m |
| Sep 30 2024 | n/a | n/a | US$546m |
| Jun 30 2024 | n/a | n/a | US$557m |
| Mar 31 2024 | n/a | n/a | US$573m |
| Dec 31 2023 | US$8m | US$986k | US$498m |
| Sep 30 2023 | n/a | n/a | US$478m |
| Jun 30 2023 | n/a | n/a | US$466m |
| Mar 31 2023 | n/a | n/a | US$457m |
| Dec 31 2022 | US$5m | US$939k | US$465m |
| Sep 30 2022 | n/a | n/a | US$467m |
| Jun 30 2022 | n/a | n/a | US$449m |
| Mar 31 2022 | n/a | n/a | US$447m |
| Dec 31 2021 | US$5m | US$900k | US$432m |
| Sep 30 2021 | n/a | n/a | US$418m |
| Jun 30 2021 | n/a | n/a | US$423m |
| Mar 31 2021 | n/a | n/a | US$417m |
| Dec 31 2020 | US$7m | US$859k | US$285m |
| Sep 30 2020 | n/a | n/a | US$246m |
| Jun 30 2020 | n/a | n/a | US$279m |
| Mar 31 2020 | n/a | n/a | US$259m |
| Dec 31 2019 | US$6m | US$793k | US$225m |
Compensation vs Market: Chris's total compensation ($USD9.21M) is below average for companies of similar size in the US market ($USD14.74M).
Compensation vs Earnings: Chris's compensation has increased by more than 20% whilst company earnings have fallen more than 20% in the past year.
CEO
Chris Franklin (63 yo)
11.2yrs
Tenure
US$9,212,815
Compensation
Mr. Christopher H. Franklin, also known as Chris, serves as Independent Director at CenterPoint Energy Resources Corp. since 2022 and serves as its Lead Director since 2025. He serves as Lead Independent D...
Leadership Team
| Name | Position | Tenure | Compensation | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chairman | 11.2yrs | US$9.21m | 0.12% $ 14.3m | |
| Executive VP & CFO | 7.9yrs | US$2.42m | 0.027% $ 3.2m | |
| Executive VP | 14.4yrs | US$2.97m | 0.028% $ 3.4m | |
| President of Aqua Water | 11yrs | US$1.23m | 0.0036% $ 423.7k | |
| President of Peoples Natural Gas | no data | US$1.21m | 0.0063% $ 745.0k | |
| VP & Chief Accounting Officer | 1.2yrs | no data | no data | |
| VP & Chief Information Officer | 3.8yrs | no data | no data | |
| Senior Vice President & Chief Administrative Officer | no data | no data | no data | |
| Vice President of Public Affairs | no data | no data | no data | |
| Senior VP & Chief Human Resources Officer | 8.3yrs | US$105.00k | no data | |
| Chief Environmental | 10.3yrs | no data | no data |
9.3yrs
Average Tenure
57yo
Average Age
Experienced Management: WTRG's management team is seasoned and experienced (9.3 years average tenure).
Board Members
| Name | Position | Tenure | Compensation | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chairman | 10.9yrs | US$9.21m | 0.12% $ 14.3m | |
| Lead Independent Director | 9.3yrs | US$290.01k | 0.013% $ 1.6m | |
| Independent Director | 5.2yrs | US$260.01k | 0.0059% $ 704.6k | |
| Independent Director | 8.1yrs | US$260.01k | 0.0094% $ 1.1m | |
| Independent Director | 2.3yrs | US$245.01k | 0.0037% $ 441.6k | |
| Independent Director | 2.3yrs | US$265.01k | 0.0037% $ 441.6k | |
| Independent Director | 3.9yrs | US$245.01k | 0.0049% $ 586.8k |
5.2yrs
Average Tenure
63yo
Average Age
Experienced Board: WTRG's board of directors are considered experienced (5.2 years average tenure).
Company Analysis and Financial Data Status
| Data | Last Updated (UTC time) |
|---|---|
| Company Analysis | 2026/09/09 20:32 |
| End of Day Share Price | 2026/09/09 00:00 |
| Earnings | 2026/06/30 |
| Annual Earnings | 2025/12/31 |
Data Sources
The data used in our company analysis is from S&P Global Market Intelligence LLC. The following data is used in our analysis model to generate this report. Data is normalised which can introduce a delay from the source being available.
| Package | Data | Timeframe | Example US Source * |
|---|---|---|---|
| Company Financials | 10 years |
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| Analyst Consensus Estimates | +3 years |
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| Market Prices | 30 years |
| |
| Ownership | 10 years |
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| Management | 10 years |
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| Key Developments | 10 years |
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* Example for US securities, for non-US equivalent regulatory forms and sources are used.
Unless specified all financial data is based on a yearly period but updated quarterly. This is known as Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) or Last Twelve Month (LTM) Data. Learn more.
Analysis Model and Snowflake
Details of the analysis model used to generate this report is available on our Github page, we also have guides on how to use our reports and tutorials on Youtube.
Learn about the who designed and built the Simply Wall St analysis model.
Industry and Sector Metrics
Our industry and section metrics are calculated every 6 hours by Simply Wall St, details of our process are available on Github.
Analyst Sources
Essential Utilities, Inc. is covered by 19 analysts. 4 of those analysts submitted the estimates of revenue or earnings used as inputs to our report. Analysts submissions are updated throughout the day.
| Analyst | Institution |
|---|---|
| Jacob Kilstein | Argus Research Company |
| Davis Sunderland | Baird |
| Daniel Ford | Barclays |