CenterPoint Energy Inc (CNP)vsNRG Energy Inc. (NRG)
CNP
CenterPoint Energy Inc
$37.84
-0.37%
UTILITIES · Cap: $25.18B
NRG
NRG Energy Inc.
$102.73
-0.51%
UTILITIES · Cap: $21.71B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
NRG Energy Inc. generates 244% more annual revenue ($33.12B vs $9.62B). CNP leads profitability with a 11.6% profit margin vs 2.6%. NRG appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.40. CNP earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 66/100 (B-).
CNP
Strong Buy66
out of 100
Grade: B-
NRG
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-71.8%
Fair Value
$22.11
Current Price
$37.84
$15.73 premium
Intrinsic value data unavailable for NRG.
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Reasonable price relative to book value
Strong operational efficiency at 24.5%
Earnings expanding 23.3% YoY
Growing faster than its price suggests
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Weak financial health signals
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Distress zone — elevated risk
Moderate valuation
Distress zone — elevated risk
2.6% margin — thin
Earnings declined 85.6%
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : CNP
The strongest argument for CNP centers on Price/Book, Operating Margin, EPS Growth. Revenue growth of 10.7% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bull Case : NRG
The strongest argument for NRG centers on PEG Ratio. Revenue growth of 11.0% demonstrates continued momentum. PEG of 0.40 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : CNP
The primary concerns for CNP are PEG Ratio, Piotroski F-Score, Free Cash Flow. Debt-to-equity of 2.14 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Bear Case : NRG
The primary concerns for NRG are P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score, Profit Margin. Debt-to-equity of 4.83 is elevated, increasing financial risk. Thin 2.6% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
NRG carries more volatility with a beta of 1.17 — expect wider price swings.
NRG is growing revenue faster at 11.0% — sustainability is the question.
NRG generates stronger free cash flow (779M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor UTILITIES - REGULATED ELECTRIC industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
CNP scores higher overall (66/100 vs 60/100) and 10.7% revenue growth. Both earn "Strong 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.
CenterPoint Energy Inc
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - REGULATED ELECTRIC · USA
CenterPoint Energy, Inc. is an American Fortune 500 electric and natural gas utility serving several markets in the American states of Arkansas, Indiana, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Texas.
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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