On October 18, 2024, Citadel Advisors LLC (Trades, Portfolio), a prominent investment firm, executed a significant transaction by acquiring 9,143,758 shares of Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc (NYSE:HE). This addition has increased the firm’s total holdings in the company to 9,313,380 shares, reflecting a notable investment expansion in the utilities sector. The shares were purchased at a price of $10.11 each, marking a strategic move by the firm to bolster its portfolio in this industry.
Founded in 1990 by Kenneth Griffin with backing from Frank Meyer of Glenwood Partners, Citadel Advisors LLC (Trades, Portfolio) has grown from a modest $4.6 million in capital to a powerhouse with assets totaling approximately $176 billion. The firm is a key entity within the Citadel group, focusing on a diverse range of investment strategies including event-driven, credit arbitrage, and structured credit approaches. Citadel Advisors is particularly noted for its investments in the finance sector, alongside significant positions in consumer discretionary, information technology, and healthcare sectors.
The recent acquisition by Citadel Advisors LLC (Trades, Portfolio) has slightly increased its portfolio’s exposure to Hawaiian Electric Industries, with the new shares constituting a 0.02% portfolio impact. This move not only diversifies the firm’s investments but also strengthens its position in the utilities sector, where it now holds a 5.40% ownership stake in Hawaiian Electric Industries.
Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc, established in 1983, operates as the parent company for three regulated utilities across five Hawaiian islands and owns Hawaii’s American Savings Bank. Despite its significant role in the regional utility market, the company’s financial metrics indicate challenges, with a current stock price of $9.75, down by 3.56% since the transaction. The company’s GF Value is marked at $39.60, suggesting a potential undervaluation at a price to GF Value ratio of 0.25.
The utilities sector has been facing a turbulent market environment, with Hawaiian Electric Industries experiencing a year-to-date price decline of 36.69%. Citadel Advisors LLC (Trades, Portfolio)’s decision to increase its stake at this juncture could be indicative of a strategic move to buy into the stock at a perceived low point, capitalizing on potential future recoveries.
