On October 28, 2026, American Water Works Company, Inc. reported its financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2026, via a press release included in its Form 8-K filing.
For the third quarter of 2026, the company reported GAAP earnings of $1.94 per share, which remained flat compared to the same period in 2025. Year-to-date 2026 GAAP earnings were $4.56 per share, an increase from $4.47 per share in the first nine months of 2025. Adjusted (non-GAAP) earnings for the quarter were $2.00 per share, up from $1.89 per share in the prior year, with year-to-date adjusted earnings of $4.63 per share compared to $4.40 per share in 2025.
The company narrowed its 2026 adjusted earnings per share (EPS) guidance range to $6.07 to $6.12, up from the previous range of $6.02 to $6.12. Additionally, American Water initiated standalone 2027 adjusted EPS guidance of $6.53 to $6.63, representing an 8% growth at the midpoint compared to the 2026 guidance range. The company affirmed its long-term targets, which include 7-9% EPS growth, 8-9% rate base growth, and 7-9% dividend per share growth.
Regarding regulatory progress, the company noted significant execution on several fronts, including in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, with new rates taking effect in the third quarter. The company also reported that its 2026 capital investment plan of $3.7 billion is on track, and it has added approximately 81,000 customer connections through acquisitions through September 30, including the Nexus Water systems.
In terms of the proposed merger with Essential Utilities, the company stated that three states have approved the deal, and settlements have been reached in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Texas. The company continues to work toward closing the merger by the end of the first quarter of 2027.
On October 27, 2026, the company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.8950 per share, payable on December 1, 2026, to shareholders of record as of November 12, 2026.
