Enact Holdings Inc (ACT)vsEssent Group Ltd (ESNT)
ACT
Enact Holdings Inc
$41.79
+2.05%
FINANCIAL SERVICES · Cap: $5.92B
ESNT
Essent Group Ltd
$57.44
+0.47%
FINANCIAL SERVICES · Cap: $5.38B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Essent Group Ltd generates 3% more annual revenue ($1.28B vs $1.24B). ACT leads profitability with a 54.5% profit margin vs 53.6%. ESNT trades at a lower P/E of 8.3x. ESNT earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 73/100 (B).
ACT
Buy54
out of 100
Grade: C-
ESNT
Strong Buy73
out of 100
Grade: B
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Reasonable price relative to book value
Keeps 55 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Strong operational efficiency at 72.3%
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Reasonable price relative to book value
Keeps 54 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Strong operational efficiency at 63.7%
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Areas to Watch
1.7% revenue growth
Weak financial health signals
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : ACT
The strongest argument for ACT centers on P/E Ratio, Price/Book, Profit Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 54.5% and operating margin at 72.3%.
Bull Case : ESNT
The strongest argument for ESNT centers on P/E Ratio, Price/Book, Profit Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 53.6% and operating margin at 63.7%. PEG of 0.84 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : ACT
The primary concerns for ACT are Revenue Growth.
Bear Case : ESNT
The primary concerns for ESNT are Piotroski F-Score.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
ACT profiles as a value stock while ESNT is a mature play — different risk/reward profiles.
ESNT carries more volatility with a beta of 0.78 — expect wider price swings.
ESNT is growing revenue faster at 5.8% — sustainability is the question.
ACT generates stronger free cash flow (224M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
ESNT scores higher overall (73/100 vs 54/100), backed by strong 53.6% margins. Both earn "Strong Buy" and "Buy" ratings respectively — the choice depends on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.
This analysis is generated from publicly available financial data. Not financial advice.
Enact Holdings Inc
FINANCIAL SERVICES · INSURANCE - SPECIALTY · USA
Enact Holdings Inc (ACT) is a leading provider of private mortgage insurance and risk management solutions within the U.S. housing sector, dedicated to enhancing homeownership accessibility and supporting sustainable housing initiatives. The company's robust capital structure and strategic partnerships allow it to adeptly navigate market complexities while fostering innovation and technological advancements. By focusing on lender capabilities and proactive risk management, Enact is strategically positioned to capitalize on growth opportunities in a dynamic real estate landscape.
Visit Website →Essent Group Ltd
FINANCIAL SERVICES · INSURANCE - SPECIALTY · USA
Essent Group Ltd., provides private mortgage insurance and reinsurance for mortgages secured by residential properties located in the United States. The company is headquartered in Hamilton, Bermuda.
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