WallStSmart

The Gap, Inc. (GAP)vsEssential Utilities Inc (WTRG)

VS

Smart Verdict

WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison

The Gap, Inc. generates 521% more annual revenue ($15.37B vs $2.47B). WTRG leads profitability with a 24.9% profit margin vs 5.3%. GAP appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.45. WTRG earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 60/100 (C+).

GAP

Buy

55

out of 100

Grade: C

Growth: 2.7Profit: 5.5Value: 7.3Quality: 5.8
Piotroski: 2/9Altman Z: 2.38

WTRG

Buy

60

out of 100

Grade: C+

Growth: 4.7Profit: 7.5Value: 6.7Quality: 3.3
Piotroski: 2/9Altman Z: 0.74
IV

Intrinsic Value Comparison

Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula

GAPUndervalued (+9.1%)

Margin of Safety

+9.1%

Fair Value

$30.21

Current Price

$24.56

$5.65 discount

UndervaluedFair: $30.21Overvalued
WTRGUndervalued (+47.4%)

Margin of Safety

+47.4%

Fair Value

$71.13

Current Price

$37.54

$33.59 discount

UndervaluedFair: $71.13Overvalued

Key Strengths & Concerns

Side-by-side fundamental analysis

Key Strengths

GAP3 strengths · Avg: 9.0/10
P/E RatioValuation
11.6x10/10

Attractively priced relative to earnings

Return on EquityProfitability
23.1%9/10

Every $100 of equity generates 23 in profit

Price/BookValuation
2.4x8/10

Reasonable price relative to book value

WTRG5 strengths · Avg: 8.6/10
Operating MarginProfitability
32.4%10/10

Strong operational efficiency at 32.4%

Profit MarginProfitability
24.9%9/10

Keeps 25 of every $100 in revenue as profit

P/E RatioValuation
17.3x8/10

Attractively priced relative to earnings

Price/BookValuation
1.5x8/10

Reasonable price relative to book value

Revenue GrowthGrowth
15.7%8/10

15.7% revenue growth

Areas to Watch

GAP4 concerns · Avg: 3.3/10
Revenue GrowthGrowth
2.1%4/10

2.1% revenue growth

Profit MarginProfitability
5.3%3/10

5.3% margin — thin

Operating MarginProfitability
4.9%3/10

Operating margin of 4.9%

Piotroski F-ScoreQuality
2/93/10

Weak financial health signals

WTRG4 concerns · Avg: 2.3/10
Piotroski F-ScoreQuality
2/93/10

Weak financial health signals

PEG RatioValuation
3.622/10

Expensive relative to growth rate

EPS GrowthGrowth
-30.0%2/10

Earnings declined 30.0%

Free Cash FlowQuality
$-240.78M2/10

Negative free cash flow — burning cash

Comparative Analysis Report

WallStSmart Research

Bull Case : GAP

The strongest argument for GAP centers on P/E Ratio, Return on Equity, Price/Book. PEG of 1.45 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 : GAP

The primary concerns for GAP are Revenue Growth, Profit Margin, Operating Margin.

Bear Case : WTRG

The primary concerns for WTRG are Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio, EPS Growth.

Key Dynamics to Monitor

GAP profiles as a value stock while WTRG is a growth play — different risk/reward profiles.

GAP carries more volatility with a beta of 2.25 — expect wider price swings.

WTRG is growing revenue faster at 15.7% — sustainability is the question.

GAP generates stronger free cash flow (696M), providing more financial flexibility.

Bottom Line

WTRG scores higher overall (60/100 vs 55/100), backed by strong 24.9% margins and 15.7% 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.

The Gap, Inc.

CONSUMER CYCLICAL · APPAREL RETAIL · USA

The Gap, Inc. is a prominent global apparel retailer founded in 1969, known for its diverse portfolio of iconic brands including Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy, and Athleta. Headquartered in San Francisco, the company services over 40 countries and prioritizes quality, value, and style for a broad customer demographic. As it navigates the dynamic retail landscape, Gap is committed to enhancing its digital transformation and sustainability efforts, aiming to bolster its e-commerce presence while pursuing innovative product offerings and strategic growth initiatives to sustain its competitive advantage.

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.

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