Estee Lauder Companies Inc (EL)vsEssential Utilities Inc (WTRG)
EL
Estee Lauder Companies Inc
$86.67
+4.61%
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · Cap: $28.68B
WTRG
Essential Utilities Inc
$37.54
+0.13%
UTILITIES · Cap: $10.77B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Estee Lauder Companies Inc generates 499% more annual revenue ($14.83B vs $2.47B). WTRG leads profitability with a 24.9% profit margin vs -1.7%. EL appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.43. WTRG earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 60/100 (C+).
EL
Hold41
out of 100
Grade: D
WTRG
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+35.8%
Fair Value
$164.08
Current Price
$86.67
$77.41 discount
Margin of Safety
+47.4%
Fair Value
$71.13
Current Price
$37.54
$33.59 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
No standout strengths identified
Strong operational efficiency at 32.4%
Keeps 25 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Reasonable price relative to book value
15.7% revenue growth
Areas to Watch
4.6% revenue growth
Distress zone — elevated risk
Weak financial health signals
ROE of -6.0% — below average capital efficiency
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Earnings declined 30.0%
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : EL
PEG of 1.43 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : WTRG
The strongest argument for WTRG centers on Operating Margin, Profit Margin, P/E Ratio. Profitability is solid with margins at 24.9% and operating margin at 32.4%. Revenue growth of 15.7% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : EL
The primary concerns for EL are Revenue Growth, Altman Z-Score, Piotroski F-Score. Debt-to-equity of 2.74 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Bear Case : WTRG
The primary concerns for WTRG are Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio, EPS Growth.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
EL profiles as a turnaround stock while WTRG is a growth play — different risk/reward profiles.
EL carries more volatility with a beta of 1.25 — expect wider price swings.
WTRG is growing revenue faster at 15.7% — sustainability is the question.
EL generates stronger free cash flow (310M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
WTRG scores higher overall (60/100 vs 41/100), backed by strong 24.9% margins and 15.7% revenue growth. EL offers better value entry with a 35.8% margin of safety. Both earn "Buy" and "Hold" ratings respectively — the choice depends on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.
This analysis is generated from publicly available financial data. Not financial advice.
Estee Lauder Companies Inc
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · HOUSEHOLD & PERSONAL PRODUCTS · USA
The Estee Lauder Companies Inc. is an American multinational manufacturer and marketer of prestige skincare, makeup, fragrance and hair care products, based in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. The company owns a diverse portfolio of brands, distributed internationally through both digital commerce and retail channels.
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 HOUSEHOLD & PERSONAL PRODUCTS Stocks
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