The Globe and Mail reports in its Wednesday, Dec. 17, edition that Scotia Capital analyst Robert Hope has upgraded Algonquin Power & Utilities to "sector outperform" from "sector perform." The Globe's David Leeder writes in the Eye On Equities column that Mr. Hope gave his share target a 50-cent boost to $7. Analysts on average target the shares a $6.54. Mr. Hope says in a note: "We view Algonquin as a turnaround story, and so far it has been delivering. The appointment of Rod West as CEO has received positive feedback from investors. He is laser focused on creating a culture of utility operational excellence and cost discipline. News flow from the company over the last few quarters has been positive and we expect this to continue. In 2026, key items we are looking for include continued EPS growth as new customer rates enter service and costs are contained. We view Algonquin as a turnaround story, and so far it has been delivering. The appointment of Rod West as CEO has received positive feedback from investors. He is laser focused on creating a culture of utility operational excellence and cost discipline. News flow from the company over the last few quarters has been positive and we expect this to continue."