American Water Works (AWK)vsTalen Energy Corporation (TLN)
AWK
American Water Works
$124.47
+1.82%
UTILITIES · Cap: $24.67B
TLN
Talen Energy Corporation
$364.74
-3.53%
UTILITIES · Cap: $16.39B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
American Water Works generates 61% more annual revenue ($5.21B vs $3.24B). AWK leads profitability with a 21.2% profit margin vs -0.7%. AWK earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 60/100 (C).
AWK
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C
TLN
Hold48
out of 100
Grade: D+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-22.5%
Fair Value
$100.98
Current Price
$124.47
$23.49 premium
Intrinsic value data unavailable for TLN.
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Strong operational efficiency at 33.2%
Keeps 21 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Reasonable price relative to book value
Revenue surging 96.7% year-over-year
Earnings expanding 34.5% YoY
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Elevated debt levels
Weak financial health signals
Earnings declined 4.8%
Trading at 15.4x book value
Weak financial health signals
ROE of -2.0% — below average capital efficiency
Distress zone — elevated risk
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : AWK
The strongest argument for AWK centers on Operating Margin, Profit Margin, Price/Book. Profitability is solid with margins at 21.2% and operating margin at 33.2%.
Bull Case : TLN
The strongest argument for TLN centers on Revenue Growth, EPS Growth. Revenue growth of 96.7% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : AWK
The primary concerns for AWK are PEG Ratio, Debt/Equity, Piotroski F-Score.
Bear Case : TLN
The primary concerns for TLN are Price/Book, Piotroski F-Score, Return on Equity. Debt-to-equity of 6.34 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AWK profiles as a mature stock while TLN is a hypergrowth play — different risk/reward profiles.
TLN carries more volatility with a beta of 1.60 — expect wider price swings.
TLN is growing revenue faster at 96.7% — sustainability is the question.
TLN generates stronger free cash flow (392M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
AWK scores higher overall (60/100 vs 48/100), backed by strong 21.2% margins. 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.
American Water Works
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - REGULATED WATER · USA
American Water is an American public utility company operating in the United States and Canada.
Talen Energy Corporation
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - INDEPENDENT POWER PRODUCERS · USA
Talen Energy Corporation (Ticker: TLN) is a prominent power generation and infrastructure firm based in the United States, focused on delivering reliable and sustainable energy solutions through a diverse portfolio that encompasses both traditional and renewable sources. The company's strategic initiatives are aimed at addressing the increasing demand for electricity while enhancing environmental sustainability and grid resilience. With a commitment to innovation and technological advancement, Talen Energy is well-positioned to capitalize on the evolving energy landscape, making it an appealing investment opportunity for institutional investors seeking exposure to the transition toward cleaner energy alternatives.
Compare with Other UTILITIES - REGULATED WATER Stocks
Want to dig deeper into these stocks?