Utilities stocks jump to start 2026 as XLU rallies; NextEra outlook and U.S. jobs data in focus
Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLU) rose 1.2% to $43.18 Friday on heavy volume, with about 20.5 million shares traded. NextEra reaffirmed 2025–26 adjusted earnings targets in a Jan. 2 SEC filing. Treasury yields climbed, and traders are watching for delayed U.S. economic data, including the December jobs report on Jan. 9.