Air Products and Chemicals Inc (APD)vsNRG Energy Inc. (NRG)
APD
Air Products and Chemicals Inc
$290.09
+1.34%
BASIC MATERIALS · Cap: $64.59B
NRG
NRG Energy Inc.
$151.04
-0.06%
UTILITIES · Cap: $32.08B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
NRG Energy Inc. generates 152% more annual revenue ($30.71B vs $12.21B). NRG leads profitability with a 2.8% profit margin vs -2.7%. NRG appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.29. NRG earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 54/100 (C-).
APD
Hold42
out of 100
Grade: D
NRG
Buy54
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Intrinsic value data unavailable for APD.
Margin of Safety
-490.6%
Fair Value
$27.20
Current Price
$151.04
$123.84 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Large-cap with strong market position
Strong operational efficiency at 24.3%
Every $100 of equity generates 42 in profit
Areas to Watch
Elevated debt levels
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
ROE of -1.7% — below average capital efficiency
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Distress zone — elevated risk
2.8% margin — thin
Operating margin of 4.3%
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : APD
The strongest argument for APD centers on Market Cap, Operating Margin.
Bull Case : NRG
The strongest argument for NRG centers on Return on Equity. Revenue growth of 13.7% demonstrates continued momentum. PEG of 1.29 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : APD
The primary concerns for APD are Debt/Equity, Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio.
Bear Case : NRG
The primary concerns for NRG are P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score, Profit Margin. Thin 2.8% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
APD profiles as a turnaround stock while NRG is a value play — different risk/reward profiles.
NRG carries more volatility with a beta of 1.26 — expect wider price swings.
NRG is growing revenue faster at 13.7% — sustainability is the question.
NRG generates stronger free cash flow (-175M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
NRG scores higher overall (54/100 vs 42/100) and 13.7% revenue growth. Both earn "Buy" and "Hold" ratings respectively — the choice depends on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.
This analysis is generated from publicly available financial data. Not financial advice.
Air Products and Chemicals Inc
BASIC MATERIALS · SPECIALTY CHEMICALS · USA
Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. is an American international corporation whose principal business is selling gases and chemicals for industrial uses. Air Products' headquarters is in Allentown, Pennsylvania.
Visit Website →NRG Energy Inc.
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - INDEPENDENT POWER PRODUCERS · USA
NRG Energy, Inc. is a large American energy company, headquartered in Houston, Texas. It was formerly the wholesale arm of Northern States Power Company (NSP), which became Xcel Energy, but became independent in 2000. NRG Energy is involved in energy generation and retail electricity.
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