The AES Corporation (AES)vsEssential Utilities Inc (WTRG)
AES
The AES Corporation
$14.45
0.00%
UTILITIES · Cap: $10.30B
WTRG
Essential Utilities Inc
$39.49
-0.35%
UTILITIES · Cap: $11.19B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
The AES Corporation generates 394% more annual revenue ($12.23B vs $2.47B). WTRG leads profitability with a 24.9% profit margin vs 7.4%. AES appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.09. WTRG earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 60/100 (C+).
AES
Buy55
out of 100
Grade: C
WTRG
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+9.3%
Fair Value
$18.13
Current Price
$14.45
$3.68 discount
Margin of Safety
+47.6%
Fair Value
$71.49
Current Price
$39.49
$32.00 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Reasonable price relative to book value
Strong operational efficiency at 32.4%
Keeps 25 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Reasonable price relative to book value
15.7% revenue growth
Areas to Watch
4.7% revenue growth
ROE of 1.9% — below average capital efficiency
7.4% margin — thin
Weak financial health signals
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Earnings declined 30.0%
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : AES
The strongest argument for AES centers on P/E Ratio, Price/Book. PEG of 1.09 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : WTRG
The strongest argument for WTRG centers on Operating Margin, Profit Margin, P/E Ratio. Profitability is solid with margins at 24.9% and operating margin at 32.4%. Revenue growth of 15.7% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : AES
The primary concerns for AES are Revenue Growth, Return on Equity, Profit Margin. Debt-to-equity of 7.98 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Bear Case : WTRG
The primary concerns for WTRG are Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio, EPS Growth.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AES profiles as a value stock while WTRG is a growth play — different risk/reward profiles.
AES carries more volatility with a beta of 1.01 — expect wider price swings.
WTRG is growing revenue faster at 15.7% — sustainability is the question.
AES generates stronger free cash flow (-47M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
WTRG scores higher overall (60/100 vs 55/100), backed by strong 24.9% margins and 15.7% revenue growth. Both earn "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.
The AES Corporation
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - DIVERSIFIED · USA
The AES Corporation is a Fortune 500 company that generates and distributes electrical power. AES is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia.
Visit Website →Essential Utilities Inc
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - REGULATED WATER · USA
Essential Utilities, Inc. operates regulated utilities that provide water, wastewater, or natural gas services in the United States. The company is headquartered in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania.
Visit Website →Compare with Other UTILITIES - DIVERSIFIED Stocks
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