AEP's Trading Volume Dives 22.93 to 404th as Relocation Debates and Full-Time Office Mandate Spark Cost Concerns

On August 22, 2025, American Electric Power (AEP) recorded a trading volume of $0.27 billion, a 22.93% decline from the previous day, ranking it 404th in market activity. The company’s recent decision to end its hybrid work policy and mandate full-time in-office attendance has intensified scrutiny over its long-term operational costs and facility strategy.

AEP is evaluating whether to relocate its headquarters from the 1 Riverside Plaza building in Columbus, Ohio, which has served as its home since 1983. The aging structure requires substantial renovations to ensure a safe and functional workspace for its 17,000 employees. While the company has not disclosed renovation costs, it stated it is exploring options, including modernizing existing facilities or identifying alternative locations in or near Columbus. The current building, designed to accommodate 2,300 workers, faces challenges amid shifting workplace dynamics and the broader trend of repurposing downtown office spaces.

The potential move aligns with AEP’s broader operational focus. The utility company, which operates the largest electricity transmission system in the U.S., serves 5.6 million customers across 11 states. Recent regulatory developments, including decisions on infrastructure projects like gas pipelines for data centers, highlight its strategic investments in energy infrastructure. However, the relocation debate underscores the tension between preserving historical assets and adapting to evolving business needs.

A strategy involving the top 500 stocks by daily trading volume, held for one day, yielded a total profit of $2,253.88 from December 2022 to August 2025. The approach experienced a maximum drawdown of -$1,025.71 during the period, with a Sharpe ratio of 1.47, reflecting its risk-adjusted performance.