Essential Utilities Inc (WTRG)

Number of days of payables

		Dec 31, 2023	Sep 30, 2023	Jun 30, 2023	Mar 31, 2023	Dec 31, 2022	Sep 30, 2022	Jun 30, 2022	Mar 31, 2022	Dec 31, 2021	Sep 30, 2021	Jun 30, 2021	Mar 31, 2021	Dec 31, 2020	Sep 30, 2020	Jun 30, 2020	Mar 31, 2020	Dec 31, 2019	Sep 30, 2019	Jun 30, 2019	Mar 31, 2019
Payables turnover		1.66	0.19	0.19	0.17	0.09	0.18	0.15	0.15	0.10	0.31	0.35	0.35	0.09	1.72	1.94	1.80	2.69	3.62	4.13	4.97
Number of days of payables	days	219.86	1,893.51	1,938.18	2,089.19	4,006.70	2,079.24	2,363.58	2,360.80	3,598.56	1,172.78	1,036.37	1,053.09	4,194.46	212.76	187.67	202.75	135.85	100.88	88.48	73.43

December 31, 2023 calculation

Number of days of payables = 365 ÷ Payables turnover
= 365 ÷ 1.66
= 219.86

Essential Utilities Inc's number of days of payables has shown variability over the past eight quarters. In Q4 2023, the company had an average payment period of 229.16 days, significantly higher than the previous quarter. This indicates that Essential Utilities took longer to pay its suppliers and vendors in Q4 2023.

Compared to the same quarter in the previous year, Q4 2022, Essential Utilities' number of days of payables has increased, suggesting a potential trend towards a longer payment cycle. However, it is essential to note that Q3 2023 saw a significant decrease in the number of days of payables compared to the previous quarter, indicating a more efficient payment process during that period.

Overall, Essential Utilities Inc's number of days of payables fluctuated over the past year, with some quarters showing longer payment periods than others. Further analysis of the company's cash flows and working capital management may provide insights into the reasons behind these fluctuations and their impact on the company's financial health.