CMS Energy Corporation (CMS)vsVistra Corp. (VST)
CMS
CMS Energy Corporation
$72.61
-1.83%
UTILITIES · Cap: $22.85B
VST
Vistra Corp.
$147.72
-4.05%
UTILITIES · Cap: $52.12B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Vistra Corp. generates 101% more annual revenue ($17.74B vs $8.82B). CMS leads profitability with a 12.6% profit margin vs 5.3%. VST appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.38. CMS earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 60/100 (C+).
CMS
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C+
VST
Buy53
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-53.5%
Fair Value
$48.56
Current Price
$72.61
$24.05 premium
Margin of Safety
-53.3%
Fair Value
$101.06
Current Price
$147.72
$46.66 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Reasonable price relative to book value
Large-cap with strong market position
Areas to Watch
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Distress zone — elevated risk
Trading at 19.1x book value
5.3% margin — thin
Weak financial health signals
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : CMS
The strongest argument for CMS centers on Price/Book. Revenue growth of 11.6% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bull Case : VST
The strongest argument for VST centers on Market Cap. Revenue growth of 13.6% demonstrates continued momentum. PEG of 1.38 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : CMS
The primary concerns for CMS are Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio, Free Cash Flow.
Bear Case : VST
The primary concerns for VST are Price/Book, Profit Margin, Piotroski F-Score. A P/E of 70.6x leaves little room for execution misses. Debt-to-equity of 3.36 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
VST carries more volatility with a beta of 1.45 — expect wider price swings.
VST is growing revenue faster at 13.6% — sustainability is the question.
VST generates stronger free cash flow (-82M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor UTILITIES - REGULATED ELECTRIC industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
CMS scores higher overall (60/100 vs 53/100) and 11.6% 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.
CMS Energy Corporation
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - REGULATED ELECTRIC · USA
CMS Energy (NYSE: CMS), based in Jackson, Michigan, is an energy company that is focused principally on utility operations in Michigan.
Visit Website →Vistra Corp.
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - INDEPENDENT POWER PRODUCERS · USA
Vistra Corp. The company is headquartered in Irving, Texas.
Visit Website →Compare with Other UTILITIES - REGULATED ELECTRIC Stocks
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