8 Most Profitable Utility Stocks to Buy Right Now

5. American Water Works Company, Inc. (NYSE:AWK)

TTM Net Income as of December 30: $1.11 billion

TTM Net Income Margin as of December 30: 21.93%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 53

American Water Works Company, Inc. (NYSE:AWK) is among the Most Profitable Stocks. 

TheFly reported on December 18, 2025, that New Jersey American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, has agreed to purchase the Hopewell Borough water system for $6.4 million. The sale was approved by 58% of Hopewell voters in a referendum held in November 2025. Over 880 customer connections are served by the Hopewell system. According to the business, a bulk water agreement has allowed them to supply a sizable amount of Hopewell’s water for many years, facilitating a smooth transition. The business stated that it intends to make investments in the system to repair outdated infrastructure, eliminate lead service lines, improve dependability, and maintain reasonable prices. New Jersey American Water’s president, Mark McDonough, stated that the firm is dedicated to providing Hopewell residents with top-notch service after the acquisition.

Separately, on December 17, 2025, Barclays analyst Nicholas Campanella kept the shares’ Underweight rating. It also reduced the price target for American Water Works Company, Inc. (NYSE:AWK) from $134 to $122. The modification was included in Barclays’ utilities sector projection for 2026. Barclays maintained a strong outlook for the industry, describing 2026 as a year of execution and defense in the wake of increased spending commitments and guidance that indicated positive adjustments to earnings would follow.

American Water Works Company, Inc. (NYSE:AWK) is the largest investor-owned US water and wastewater company, serving approximately 4 million customers across 14 states.