Duke Energy Corporation (DUK)vsEssential Utilities Inc (WTRG)
DUK
Duke Energy Corporation
$119.42
+0.04%
UTILITIES · Cap: $93.11B
WTRG
Essential Utilities Inc
$41.07
-1.75%
UTILITIES · Cap: $11.90B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Duke Energy Corporation generates 1177% more annual revenue ($32.80B vs $2.57B). WTRG leads profitability with a 21.6% profit margin vs 16.0%. DUK appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 2.22. DUK earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 63/100 (C+).
DUK
Buy63
out of 100
Grade: C+
WTRG
Buy56
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-79.6%
Fair Value
$66.50
Current Price
$119.42
$52.92 premium
Margin of Safety
+45.1%
Fair Value
$68.22
Current Price
$41.07
$27.15 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Large-cap with strong market position
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Reasonable price relative to book value
Strong operational efficiency at 27.5%
Strong operational efficiency at 35.4%
Keeps 22 of every $100 in revenue as profit
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
3.1% revenue growth
ROE of 7.9% — 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, P/E Ratio, Price/Book. Profitability is solid with margins at 16.0% and operating margin at 27.5%.
Bull Case : WTRG
The strongest argument for WTRG centers on Operating Margin, Profit Margin, Price/Book. Profitability is solid with margins at 21.6% and operating margin at 35.4%.
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 : WTRG
The primary concerns for WTRG are Revenue Growth, Return on Equity, Debt/Equity.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
WTRG carries more volatility with a beta of 0.63 — expect wider price swings.
WTRG is growing revenue faster at 3.1% — sustainability is the question.
WTRG generates stronger free cash flow (-51M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor UTILITIES - REGULATED ELECTRIC industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
DUK scores higher overall (63/100 vs 56/100), backed by strong 16.0% margins. WTRG offers better value entry with a 45.1% margin of safety. 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 →Essential Utilities Inc
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - REGULATED WATER · USA
Essential Utilities, Inc. operates regulated utilities that provide water, wastewater, or natural gas services in the United States. The company is headquartered in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania.
Visit Website →Compare with Other UTILITIES - REGULATED ELECTRIC Stocks
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