1. Long-term rates have risen, creating potential buying opportunities for utilities like AEP, AWK, AWR, BKH, ES, EVRG, SJW, WEC, WTRG, and XEL; 2. These utilities have strong fundamentals, attractive valuations, and investment-grade balance sheets; 3. Despite rate sensitivity, these utilities are well-positioned for long-term growth with secure dividends and robust balance sheets.

1. 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. 2. 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. 3. Despite a 16.7% decline in diluted EPS, WTRG's third-quarter results show solid revenue growth driven by its Regulated Water segment.

1. National Fuel Gas is a dividend king with a 54-year history of increases, offering a 3.21% yield and a BBB credit rating. 2. NFG's mixed regulated and unregulated business model provides resilience and potential for significant cash injections during favorable market conditions. 3. Despite higher commodity exposure, NFG's valuation is attractive, with a P/E of 10-12x and potential for 19-25% annualized returns. 4. The author maintains a 'BUY' rating for NFG with a target price of $70/share.

1. NextEra Energy Partners faces significant debt challenges in a high interest rate environment; 2. Its 19% forward distribution yield presents a compelling value opportunity; 3. The unit price is unlikely to decline significantly further, making it a Moderate Buy.

1. Veolia offers a 15% annualized RoR, focusing on stable, government-oriented sectors like waste, water, and energy. 2. The company has shown impressive 1H24 results, confirming its 2024-2027E perspectives. 3. Veolia is undervalued with a 15.22x P/E and a 4.1% yield, offering potential for significant upside through multiple expansions and strategic M&As.

1. Utility stocks are sensitive to interest rates and often correlate with long-term bond prices. 2. UTG has recovered most losses since 2023, but its valuation remains high. 3. XLU may be a better investment than UTG for income investors due to its higher dividend yield and lower fees.

1. SJW Group's Q2 operating revenue and adjusted diluted EPS increased, reflecting a healthy financial performance. 2. The company's debt-to-capitalization ratio is improving, indicating stronger financial stability. 3. SJW is expected to generate over 30% cumulative total returns by the end of 2026, making it an attractive investment opportunity.

1. The Chinese Equity composite underperformed the MSCI China All Shares Index in Q2 2024. 2. Consumer Staples sector declined due to weak retail demand, while Utilities and Communication Services sectors performed strongly. 3. Geopolitical tensions and domestic policy measures impacted various sectors, with some domestic brands showing resilience.

1. Ariel International Fund underperformed benchmarks in Q2 2024, trading -2.20% lower. 2. The fund is overweight in Consumer Discretionary, Utilities, Information Technology, Health Care, and Financials. 3. Four new positions were initiated during the quarter.

1. Cohen & Steers Infrastructure Fund (UTF) offers a monthly dividend and a diversified portfolio of utility and infrastructure investments. 2. The fund's portfolio includes top utility companies and REITs, such as American Tower Corporation, Southern Company, and NextEra Energy. 3. Emerging technologies and increased demand for electricity, driven by AI and data centers, are expected to benefit UTF's portfolio over the next five years.