10 Best Energy Stocks Capitalizing on the Data Center Boom

8. Southern Company (NYSE:SO)

Potential Upside: 9.74%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 54

Southern Company (NYSE:SO) is one of the 10 Best Energy Stocks Capitalizing on the Data Center Boom. On June 8, Investing.com reported that Southern Company forged an equity distribution agreement with 16 banks, which will serve as sales agents and forward purchasers.

According to the report, the agreement permits the sale of the company’s common stock through the sales agents, who may play the role of agents or purchase shares as principals. Barclays Capital Inc., BMO Capital Markets Corp., and BofA Securities Inc. are some of these sales agents, among others. Additionally, the firm may also enter forward sale agreements with the same institutions or their affiliates. These forward purchasers will attempt to borrow shares from third parties and sell them through sales agents to hedge the forward sale agreements, according to the agreement.

In May, Southern Company celebrated 25 years of consistent dividend increases by ringing the bell at the New York Stock Exchange. Southern Company chairman, president, and CEO Chris Womack said the annual dividend increases reflect the company’s commitment to shareholders. He added.

“As we mark 25 consecutive years of dividend increases, I’m reminded that this kind of consistency isn’t a headline—it’s a daily commitment. It’s earned through the work required to keep our system running safely and reliably, to solve problems before they’re seen, and to deliver energy that customers can depend on. That steady performance—day after day, year after year—is what allows us to continue serving our customers and communities.”

Based on 27 analyst ratings compiled by CNN, 63% have placed a Hold rating on Southern Company, while 26% have assigned a Buy rating. The stock has a median price target of $102, a 9.74% upside from the current price of $92.95.

Southern Company (NYSE:SO) is an energy provider with electric operating companies in three states, natural gas distribution companies in four states, and a power generation company. It also provides energy distribution solutions and telecommunications services.