American Water: Revisiting The Merger Math

American Water is merging with Essential Utilities to create the largest public water utility in the U.S., targeting Q1 2027 closure. AWK expects 7-9% long-term EPS and dividend growth, with potential for above-trend EPS growth post-merger due to synergies and expanded geographic reach. Pro-forma dividend yield is projected to rise to 3.4% in 2027, with a payout ratio near 58%, and valuation is seen as attractive versus peers.