Key Areas to Keep an Eye on at This Coal Leader

By Taylor Muckerman – Mar 27, 2013 at 8:00AM

OTC: BTU

Peabody Energy Corporation

Surging natural gas usage has curtailed domestic coal usage, so what should investors focus on that could lead to Peabody's success?

Being the largest coal producer in the United States comes with its fair share of expectations. Peabody Energy (BTU) is hoping that it can live up to those of its investors. Times have been trying for Peabody and its peers, considering that low-priced natural gas is taking over the domestic front as a substitute for thermal coal in electricity generation.

Are you wondering what to focus on?
The tide might be turning, especially for Peabody, which operates in the two cheapest coal producing regions in the United States: the Powder River and Illinois basins. What are some key areas that current and potential investors need to keep an eye on for Peabody to turn the corner?

Taylor Muckerman owns shares of CONSOL Energy. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.