NiSource Inc (NI)vsEssential Utilities Inc (WTRG)
NI
NiSource Inc
$48.28
+0.21%
UTILITIES · Cap: $23.06B
WTRG
Essential Utilities Inc
$39.49
-0.35%
UTILITIES · Cap: $11.19B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
NiSource Inc generates 168% more annual revenue ($6.64B vs $2.47B). WTRG leads profitability with a 24.9% profit margin vs 14.0%. NI appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 2.76. NI earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 62/100 (C+).
NI
Buy62
out of 100
Grade: C+
WTRG
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-86.6%
Fair Value
$23.93
Current Price
$48.28
$24.35 premium
Margin of Safety
+47.6%
Fair Value
$71.49
Current Price
$39.49
$32.00 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Reasonable price relative to book value
Strong operational efficiency at 27.0%
19.8% revenue growth
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
Expensive relative to growth rate
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Distress zone — elevated risk
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 : NI
The strongest argument for NI centers on Price/Book, Operating Margin, Revenue Growth. Revenue growth of 19.8% demonstrates continued momentum.
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 : NI
The primary concerns for NI are PEG Ratio, Free Cash Flow, Altman Z-Score.
Bear Case : WTRG
The primary concerns for WTRG are Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio, EPS Growth.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
WTRG carries more volatility with a beta of 0.77 — expect wider price swings.
NI is growing revenue faster at 19.8% — sustainability is the question.
NI generates stronger free cash flow (-134M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor UTILITIES - REGULATED GAS industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
NI scores higher overall (62/100 vs 60/100) and 19.8% revenue growth. WTRG offers better value entry with a 47.6% 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.
NiSource Inc
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - REGULATED GAS · USA
NiSource Inc. is one of the largest fully regulated utility companies in the United States. The company is based in Merrillville, Indiana.
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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