Utility Forecaster Review: Is Robert Rapier a Scam?

As an experienced investment analyst with over seven years of consistent success in the financial markets, I’ve come to appreciate the value of reliable, income-generating investments. In a world where market volatility can often feel like the norm, finding a dependable source of stable returns is no small feat.

That’s why I was intrigued by Robert Rapier’s Utility Forecaster, a newsletter that promises to help investors build wealth through dividend-paying stocks in essential service sectors like utilities, energy, and telecommunications. Given my focus on strategies that deliver consistent profit over time, I decided to put this service to the test and see if it lives up to its reputation.

In this review, I’ll share my honest take on Utility Forecaster—its strengths, weaknesses, and whether it’s worth adding to your investment toolkit.

What is Utility Forecaster?

As someone who has spent years navigating the ups and downs of the financial markets, I’m always on the lookout for tools that simplify income investing without compromising on quality. Utility Forecaster is one such resource that caught my attention. Published by Investing Daily, this monthly newsletter focuses on dividend-paying stocks from essential service sectors like utilities, energy, telecommunications, and renewable energy. Its goal is simple: to help investors generate stable income while minimizing risk.

What sets Utility Forecaster apart is its comprehensive approach. Subscribers gain access to stock recommendations, weekly updates, and tools like the Dividend Safety Ratings, which evaluate the reliability of dividends for over 200 companies. The newsletter also employs proprietary systems like the Safety Rating System and Early Warning System, which analyze financial health and growth prospects to identify opportunities and flag risks. With a track record of delivering consistent returns over decades, it’s no surprise that this service has become a trusted name in income investing.

Recommendation: Here’s The Best Alternative

Who Created Utility Forecaster?

The origins of Utility Forecaster date back to 1989 when it was founded by Roger Conrad, a respected figure in the investment world known for his rigorous methodologies and exceptional performance. Conrad’s leadership earned the newsletter accolades, including high rankings from the Hulbert Financial Digest for risk-adjusted returns. In 2018, Robert Rapier took over as editor, bringing his extensive expertise in the energy sector to the table.

Rapier is no ordinary analyst—he’s a chemical engineer with over 25 years of experience in oil refining, natural gas production, renewable energy technologies, and more. His hands-on industry knowledge gives him a unique edge in identifying high-quality dividend stocks within essential service sectors. Rapier has also authored books and appeared on major platforms like CNBC and The Wall Street Journal, further solidifying his reputation as an authority in energy-focused investing.

Is Utility Forecaster Legit?

After exploring Utility Forecaster in detail, I can confidently say that this newsletter is legitimate. With more than three decades of history behind it, a proven track record of delivering actionable advice, and endorsements from respected financial publications, it’s clear that this isn’t a fly-by-night operation. The service’s reliance on proprietary systems like the Safety Rating System ensures that recommendations are backed by thorough analysis rather than guesswork.

That said, like any investment tool, it’s important to approach Utility Forecaster with realistic expectations. While its focus on essential service sectors provides stability, its portfolios may lack diversification due to their sector-specific nature. Additionally, some marketing materials might feel overly optimistic—but the core offering remains solid for income investors looking to build wealth through dividends. Having seen positive results from its recommendations myself, I believe it’s worth considering if you value consistent cash flow and reliable insights.

Recommendation: Here’s The Best Alternative

What is Included in Utility Forecaster?

When I signed up for Utility Forecaster, I was impressed by the range of resources and tools it offers to help investors like me build a portfolio of reliable, income-generating stocks. Here’s a breakdown of what subscribers receive:

• Monthly Newsletter: The core feature of the service, this newsletter includes stock recommendations, market analysis, and insights into dividend-paying stocks across utilities, energy, and telecommunications sectors. Each issue provides actionable advice that’s easy to follow.
• Weekly Updates: These updates keep subscribers informed about recent developments in the market and how they impact recommended stocks. It’s perfect for staying on top of changes without constant monitoring.
• Members Portal: A centralized hub where subscribers can access past newsletters, special reports, and model portfolios. This portal also includes archives of research and dividend safety ratings for over 200 companies.
• Dividend Safety Ratings: A proprietary system that evaluates the reliability of dividends for recommended stocks, helping investors make informed decisions.
• Special Reports: Occasionally, subscribers receive bonus reports with insights into top-performing stocks or emerging opportunities in the utility sector.

This comprehensive package makes Utility Forecaster a valuable tool for anyone looking to generate consistent income through dividend stocks.

Are Utility Forecaster Members Getting Results?

One of the first things I look for in any investment service is whether its members are seeing real results—and Utility Forecaster doesn’t disappoint. Many long-term subscribers have shared positive experiences. For example, one user reported that they’ve been a subscriber for over 15 years and have consistently achieved satisfactory results using the newsletter’s recommendations. Another subscriber mentioned that most of the recommendations have worked out well, which is “certainly unusual in these markets”.

Even newer members have expressed optimism about the service, noting its detailed analysis and reliability. While there are occasional critiques about slower growth compared to aggressive trading strategies, the overwhelming sentiment is that Utility Forecaster delivers on its promise of stable income generation.

Recommendation: Here’s The Best Alternative

How Much Does Utility Forecaster Cost?

The subscription cost for Utility Forecaster is $149 per year. Considering the wealth of resources included—monthly newsletters, weekly updates, access to model portfolios, and special reports—it’s an affordable option for serious income investors. Additionally, Investing Daily offers a 90-day money-back guarantee, allowing new subscribers to try out the service risk-free. If you cancel within this period, you’ll receive a full refund; cancellations after 90 days are eligible for prorated refunds.

For me, this pricing structure combined with the refund policy makes Utility Forecaster a low-risk investment tool worth exploring. It’s rare to find such a comprehensive service at this price point with a guarantee backing it up.

Praises for Utility Forecaster

After using Utility Forecaster for a while, I can confidently say there are several aspects of the service that stand out and deserve recognition. Here’s what I appreciate most:

• Reliable Income-Focused Recommendations
  The newsletter consistently delivers actionable advice on dividend-paying stocks in stable sectors like utilities, energy, and telecommunications. These recommendations align perfectly with my long-term investment strategy, providing steady returns even during market turbulence. Many subscribers have reported satisfactory results over years of following its advice, with some achieving annual returns of 12–17%, which is impressive for conservative investments.

• Comprehensive Analysis Tools
  The proprietary Safety Rating System and Early Warning System are invaluable for assessing the financial health and growth potential of recommended stocks. These tools ensure that every stock passes rigorous scrutiny before being added to the portfolio, giving me confidence in the quality of the picks.

• Exceptional Customer Support
  Unlike many other investment services, Utility Forecaster offers genuine customer support, including phone assistance. I’ve found this to be incredibly helpful when I had questions about portfolio updates or stock recommendations. It’s reassuring to know that I can speak to a real person if needed.

• Affordable Pricing with Refund Policy
  At $149 per year, the subscription is reasonably priced considering the wealth of resources provided. The 90-day money-back guarantee further reduces risk for new subscribers, making it an accessible option for those hesitant to commit upfront.

• Long-Term Track Record
  With over three decades of history behind it, Utility Forecaster has proven its reliability. Its ability to adapt to changing markets while maintaining consistent performance speaks volumes about its credibility and expertise.

Criticisms for Utility Forecaster

While Utility Forecaster has many strengths, no service is perfect. Here are a few areas where I feel it falls short:

• Sector-Specific Focus
  While the emphasis on utilities and essential services provides stability, it can limit diversification. Investors looking for exposure to high-growth industries or more aggressive strategies might find the portfolio too narrow or “boring”.

• Occasional Misses in Stock Picks
  Although most recommendations perform well, there have been occasional misses that resulted in losses. For example, some subscribers have pointed out poor outcomes from specific picks like Yellow Media and Ottelco in the past. While these are exceptions rather than the norm, they highlight that no system is foolproof.

• Marketing Overhype
  Some promotional materials for Utility Forecaster can feel overly optimistic, creating expectations that may not always align with actual results. While the service does deliver steady returns, it’s important to approach it with realistic goals rather than expecting spectacular gains overnight.

• Decline in Quality Over Time
  A few long-term subscribers have noted that the quality of insights has slightly declined compared to earlier years when Roger Conrad was at the helm. While Robert Rapier brings his own strengths to the table, some users feel that recent recommendations lack the same level of depth as before.

Despite these criticisms, I believe Utility Forecaster remains a solid choice for income-focused investors who value stability and long-term growth over high-risk strategies.

Recommendation: Here’s The Best Alternative

Is Utility Forecaster Worth It?

In my experience, Utility Forecaster is absolutely worth it for the right type of investor. If your primary goal is to generate stable, long-term income through dividend-paying stocks in essential service sectors, this newsletter delivers on its promise. The combination of reliable recommendations, in-depth analysis, and tools like the Safety Rating System makes it a valuable resource for anyone focused on income investing.

That being said, it’s important to understand what you’re getting. This service is not designed for aggressive growth investors or those looking for quick profits. Its focus on stability and conservative returns means you won’t see rapid gains, but you will benefit from consistent cash flow and lower risk. For me, Utility Forecaster has been a great addition to my portfolio strategy, but I also recognize that it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.

If you’re someone who values steady dividends and prefers a hands-off approach to investing, then I’d say it’s worth giving Utility Forecaster a try—especially with the 90-day money-back guarantee. However, if you’re looking for alternative ways to build passive income without the inherent risks of stock market investments, there’s another option worth considering.

Utility Forecaster Alternative to Make Passive Income

While investing in dividend-paying stocks can be a great way to generate passive income, it’s not without risks. Market volatility, economic downturns, and even company-specific issues can impact your returns. That’s why I believe building an online business is a more sustainable and less risky alternative for creating passive income—and this is where Wealthy Affiliate comes into play.

Wealthy Affiliate is an all-in-one platform that teaches you how to build and grow an online business through affiliate marketing. Unlike investing in stocks, where your returns are dependent on external factors beyond your control, affiliate marketing allows you to create a business that generates income by promoting products or services online. Here’s why I think Wealthy Affiliate is the best alternative:

• Low Risk: Unlike stock investments that can fluctuate based on market conditions, affiliate marketing requires minimal upfront costs and has virtually no financial risk.
• Scalable Income: With the right effort and strategy, an online business can grow exponentially over time. You’re not limited by dividend yields or market performance.
• Comprehensive Training: Wealthy Affiliate provides step-by-step training for beginners and experienced marketers alike. From building a website to driving traffic and earning commissions, everything is covered.
• Supportive Community: The platform includes access to a vibrant community of like-minded entrepreneurs who share tips and advice to help you succeed.
• Passive Income Potential: Once your website is established and generating traffic, affiliate marketing can provide truly passive income streams as your content continues to earn commissions over time.

For me, Wealthy Affiliate complements my investment strategies perfectly. While I use Utility Forecaster for steady returns in the stock market, my online business provides an additional layer of financial security and flexibility. If you’re looking for a way to diversify your income streams without relying solely on investments, I highly recommend exploring Wealthy Affiliate as a viable alternative. It’s an excellent way to build long-term wealth while minimizing risk.

Recommendation: Here’s The Best Alternative