BlackRock, Inc. Increases Stake in Essential Utilities, Inc. to 10.9%

On April 24, 2026, BlackRock, Inc. filed a Schedule 13G/A with the SEC, reporting a significant position in Essential Utilities, Inc. (WTRG). As of the event date on March 31, 2026, BlackRock disclosed beneficial ownership of 30,925,357 shares of common stock, representing a 10.9% ownership stake in the company. This filing marks Amendment No. 8, indicating a continued and substantial investment by the global asset manager. According to the filing, BlackRock holds sole voting power over 29,841,997 shares and sole dispositive power over the full 30,925,357 shares. The filing specifies that these securities were acquired in the ordinary course of business and are not held for the purpose of influencing or changing the control of the issuer. Various subsidiary entities under BlackRock, Inc. are involved in the ownership structure, though no single individual's interest exceeds five percent of the total outstanding common shares. This increased position solidifies BlackRock's role as a major institutional shareholder in the utility company.