Article Abstract:
Consolidation and acquisitions continue in the water utility industry as the infrastructure costs have forced the smaller companies to merge with better financed organizations. Large portions of the budgets in this industry are also being spent to comply with federal government regulations. These stocks are not timely for the year 2000, but conservative investors may find some appealing prospects in this industry.
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Article Abstract:
Consolidation continues to benefit the water utility industry in 1999, and many small and mid-sized water companies are being acquired by other types of utilities, as well. However, a major civil lawsuit in California over contaminated water deliveries and US government safe drinking water regulations have become concerns to the industry. These stocks are not timely in 1999, but conservative investors may find their dividend yields attractive.
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Article Abstract:
Consolidation is expected to increase in the water utility industry in 1999 and the year 2000 due to rising infrastructure costs and the need to be in compliance with water-purity standards and upgraded facilities. New standards are being enforced by the Environmental Protection Agency and new regulations are being adopted for water utilities under amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974. These stocks are not timely for 1999 and the year 2000, but some may be worthwhile for investors seeking dividend growth.
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