The Globe and Mail reports in its Thursday, Jan. 25, edition that Scotia Capital analysts Andrew Weisel and Robert Hope see valuations for North American utility and power companies as "modestly attractive" heading into earnings season. The Globe's David Leeder writes that Mr. Hope has reaffirmed his "sector perform" recommendation for Algonquin Power & Utilities. Mr. Hope boosted his share target by 50 cents to $7 (all figures U.S.). Analysts on average target the shares at $7.29. Mr. Hope says in a note: "Algonquin is in the midst of a significant sale process as it looks to sell its portfolio of renewable assets and the associated development pipeline. We expect that 2024 will bring clarity to the outcome of the process, which could help sentiment on the shares. That said, in the near-term, given market conditions (higher rates, renewable valuation compression, recent underwhelming transactions), we would not be surprised to see investors take a wait and see approach." The Globe reported on Sept. 19 that Mr. Hope continued to rate Algonquin Power "buy." In the item Mr. Hope warned that fundamental risks were "elevated in the near-term." The shares could then be had for $6.91.