Xcel Energy price target raised to $78 from $68 at Argus

Argus analyst Marie Ferguson raised the firm’s price target at Xcel Energy (XEL) to $78 from $68 and maintains a Buy rating on the stock. The company has solid transmission operations and has benefited from a growing population in the Denver area and increasing demand for data centers, the analyst told investors in a research note. Xcel shares also have momentum but remain favorably valued at a projected 2025 earnings multiple of 18.3 times, versus the company’s five-year average of 22 times, Argus added.