NRG Energy Inc. (NRG)vsVistra Energy Corp (VST)
NRG
NRG Energy Inc.
$145.80
-9.67%
UTILITIES · Cap: $32.87B
VST
Vistra Energy Corp
$146.02
-12.76%
UTILITIES · Cap: $54.89B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
NRG Energy Inc. generates 73% more annual revenue ($30.71B vs $17.74B). VST leads profitability with a 5.3% profit margin vs 2.8%. VST appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.34. NRG earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 54/100 (C-).
NRG
Buy54
out of 100
Grade: C-
VST
Buy53
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-480.3%
Fair Value
$27.68
Current Price
$145.80
$118.12 premium
Margin of Safety
-975.5%
Fair Value
$14.89
Current Price
$146.02
$131.13 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 42 in profit
Large-cap with strong market position
Areas to Watch
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Distress zone — elevated risk
2.8% margin — thin
Operating margin of 4.3%
Trading at 18.8x book value
5.3% margin — thin
Weak financial health signals
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : NRG
The strongest argument for NRG centers on Return on Equity. Revenue growth of 13.7% demonstrates continued momentum. PEG of 1.35 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : VST
The strongest argument for VST centers on Market Cap. Revenue growth of 13.6% demonstrates continued momentum. PEG of 1.34 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : NRG
The primary concerns for NRG are P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score, Profit Margin. Thin 2.8% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Bear Case : VST
The primary concerns for VST are Price/Book, Profit Margin, Piotroski F-Score. A P/E of 74.0x leaves little room for execution misses. Debt-to-equity of 3.36 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
VST carries more volatility with a beta of 1.45 — expect wider price swings.
NRG is growing revenue faster at 13.7% — sustainability is the question.
VST generates stronger free cash flow (-82M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor UTILITIES - INDEPENDENT POWER PRODUCERS industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
NRG scores higher overall (54/100 vs 53/100) and 13.7% 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.
NRG Energy Inc.
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - INDEPENDENT POWER PRODUCERS · USA
NRG Energy, Inc. is a large American energy company, headquartered in Houston, Texas. It was formerly the wholesale arm of Northern States Power Company (NSP), which became Xcel Energy, but became independent in 2000. NRG Energy is involved in energy generation and retail electricity.
Vistra Energy Corp
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - INDEPENDENT POWER PRODUCERS · USA
Vistra Corp. The company is headquartered in Irving, Texas.
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