Duke Energy Corporation (DUK)vsNorthWestern Corporation (NWE)
DUK
Duke Energy Corporation
$130.08
-1.77%
UTILITIES · Cap: $99.33B
NWE
NorthWestern Corporation
$82.73
+0.87%
UTILITIES · Cap: $4.84B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Duke Energy Corporation generates 1839% more annual revenue ($32.80B vs $1.69B). DUK leads profitability with a 16.0% profit margin vs 10.1%. DUK appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 2.37. DUK earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 63/100 (C+).
DUK
Buy63
out of 100
Grade: C+
NWE
Buy59
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-89.7%
Fair Value
$67.16
Current Price
$130.08
$62.92 premium
Margin of Safety
-21.7%
Fair Value
$56.23
Current Price
$82.73
$26.50 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Large-cap with strong market position
Reasonable price relative to book value
Strong operational efficiency at 27.5%
Reasonable price relative to book value
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
1.1% revenue growth
Elevated debt levels
Weak financial health signals
Moderate valuation
ROE of 5.8% — below average capital efficiency
Elevated debt levels
Weak financial health signals
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : DUK
The strongest argument for DUK centers on Market Cap, Price/Book, Operating Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 16.0% and operating margin at 27.5%.
Bull Case : NWE
The strongest argument for NWE centers on Price/Book. Revenue growth of 14.6% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : DUK
The primary concerns for DUK are PEG Ratio, Revenue Growth, Debt/Equity. Debt-to-equity of 1.67 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Bear Case : NWE
The primary concerns for NWE are P/E Ratio, Return on Equity, Debt/Equity.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
DUK carries more volatility with a beta of 0.34 — expect wider price swings.
NWE is growing revenue faster at 14.6% — sustainability is the question.
NWE generates stronger free cash flow (-115M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor UTILITIES - REGULATED ELECTRIC industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
DUK scores higher overall (63/100 vs 59/100), backed by strong 16.0% 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.
Duke Energy Corporation
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - REGULATED ELECTRIC · USA
Duke Energy Corporation is an American electric power and natural gas holding company headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Visit Website →NorthWestern Corporation
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - REGULATED ELECTRIC · USA
NorthWestern Corporation, doing business as NorthWestern Energy, provides electricity and natural gas to residential, commercial and industrial customers. The company is headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Visit Website →Compare with Other UTILITIES - REGULATED ELECTRIC Stocks
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