Cameco (CCJ) Stock Rises Amid Strong Earnings and Nuclear Energy Optimism

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Dec 04, 2024
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Cameco Corporation (CCJ, Financial) shares experienced a modest increase of 0.37% recently. This uptick is attributed to a strong quarterly earnings report and growing confidence in nuclear energy's expanding role in power generation.

In the latest quarter, (CCJ, Financial) reported a remarkable 32% increase in adjusted EBITDA, reaching $308 million compared to the previous year. Notably, Cameco has also adjusted its 2024 uranium production forecast, raising it to 23.1 million pounds from 22.4 million pounds, highlighting improved prospects at its Key Lake mining operation in Saskatchewan.

The uranium segment continues to be a major contributor to the company's profitability, generating $240 million in adjusted EBITDA. Their strategic investment, a 49% stake in Westinghouse, contributed $122 million, and their fuel services added another $28 million.

Growing investor interest in Cameco is further bolstered by potential growth driven by increasing support for nuclear energy from global governments, industries, and the public. Tech giants like Microsoft, Alphabet's Google, and Amazon have already entered agreements to acquire nuclear-powered energy this year, indicative of the sector's rising prominence.

Moreover, optimism in the nuclear power sector is echoed by GE Vernova's CEO, Scott Strazik, who noted a broadening customer base for nuclear energy, which benefits both GE Vernova's nuclear services and Westinghouse.

Cameco's stock is currently priced at $59.61 with the company's market capitalization standing at $25.98 billion. Despite a high P/E ratio of 310.47, the company is considered significantly overvalued according to its GF Value of $41.17. Investors should be aware of Cameco's gross margin decline over the years, though their financial strength remains robust with an Altman Z-score of 8.1.

With the ongoing trend towards nuclear energy as a viable carbon-free solution, Cameco's (CCJ, Financial) growth prospects appear strong. The increased demand for nuclear reactors could further boost uranium demand, enhancing Cameco's profitability and the demand for their services.

Disclosures

I/We may personally own shares in some of the companies mentioned above. However, those positions are not material to either the company or to my/our portfolios.