American Water Works (AWK)vsVistra Corp. (VST)
AWK
American Water Works
$137.69
-1.54%
UTILITIES · Cap: $27.90B
VST
Vistra Corp.
$148.38
+0.90%
UTILITIES · Cap: $49.36B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Vistra Corp. generates 264% more annual revenue ($19.21B vs $5.28B). AWK leads profitability with a 21.3% profit margin vs 11.6%. VST appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.38. AWK earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 64/100 (C+).
AWK
Buy64
out of 100
Grade: C+
VST
Buy54
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-22.4%
Fair Value
$101.07
Current Price
$137.69
$36.62 premium
Intrinsic value data unavailable for VST.
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Strong operational efficiency at 40.7%
Keeps 21 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Reasonable price relative to book value
Growing faster than its price suggests
Every $100 of equity generates 40 in profit
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Elevated debt levels
Weak financial health signals
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Trading at 16.6x book value
Weak financial health signals
Revenue declined 5.5%
Earnings declined 6.2%
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 21.3% and operating margin at 40.7%.
Bull Case : VST
The strongest argument for VST centers on PEG Ratio, Return on Equity. PEG of 0.38 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : AWK
The primary concerns for AWK are PEG Ratio, Debt/Equity, Piotroski F-Score.
Bear Case : VST
The primary concerns for VST are Price/Book, Piotroski F-Score, Revenue Growth. Debt-to-equity of 3.63 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AWK profiles as a mature stock while VST is a declining play — different risk/reward profiles.
VST carries more volatility with a beta of 1.41 — expect wider price swings.
AWK is growing revenue faster at 6.2% — sustainability is the question.
VST generates stronger free cash flow (133M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
AWK scores higher overall (64/100 vs 54/100), backed by strong 21.3% margins. 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.
American Water Works
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - REGULATED WATER · USA
American Water is an American public utility company operating in the United States and Canada.
Vistra Corp.
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - INDEPENDENT POWER PRODUCERS · USA
Vistra Corp. The company is headquartered in Irving, Texas.
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