AltaGas split produces two buys

Article Excerpt

AltaGas is now focused on high-growth U.S. opportunities. That follows the company’s move to set up its Canadian businesses as AltaGas Canada and sell shares in the new firm to the public. The proceeds helped AltaGas pay for a big U.S. utility to spur its cash flow. The company will likely sell its remaining stake in AltaGas Canada rather than hand it to shareholders as a special dividend. The additional cash will help AltaGas continue to pay down its debt and strengthen its balance sheet. The split has also benefited AltaGas Canada: It’s jumped 72% since its initial share offering but still has solid takeover appeal. ALTAGAS LTD. $20 (Toronto symbol ALA; Utilities Sector; Shares outstanding: 275.9 million; Market cap: $5.5 billion; Dividend yield: 4.8%; Takeover Target Rating: Medium; www.altagas.com) processes, transports, stores and markets natural gas for producers. The company also operates natural gas utilities as a power generator as well as coal-fired, wind, biomass and hydroelectric plants. AltaGas’s revenue fell 9.0%, from $2.41 billion…