PPL Corporation (PPL)vsSouthern Company (SO)
PPL
PPL Corporation
$35.74
+1.65%
UTILITIES · Cap: $26.97B
SO
Southern Company
$93.43
+0.90%
UTILITIES · Cap: $106.32B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Southern Company generates 224% more annual revenue ($30.18B vs $9.31B). SO leads profitability with a 14.5% profit margin vs 13.1%. PPL appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.39. PPL earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 67/100 (B-).
PPL
Strong Buy67
out of 100
Grade: B-
SO
Buy56
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-44.1%
Fair Value
$24.99
Current Price
$35.74
$10.75 premium
Margin of Safety
-48.3%
Fair Value
$62.79
Current Price
$93.43
$30.64 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Reasonable price relative to book value
Strong operational efficiency at 27.2%
Large-cap with strong market position
Reasonable price relative to book value
Strong operational efficiency at 25.8%
Areas to Watch
Elevated debt levels
Weak financial health signals
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Distress zone — elevated risk
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Earnings declined 0.8%
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : PPL
The strongest argument for PPL centers on Price/Book, Operating Margin. Revenue growth of 10.8% demonstrates continued momentum. PEG of 1.39 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : SO
The strongest argument for SO centers on Market Cap, Price/Book, Operating Margin.
Bear Case : PPL
The primary concerns for PPL are Debt/Equity, Piotroski F-Score, Free Cash Flow.
Bear Case : SO
The primary concerns for SO are Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio, EPS Growth. Debt-to-equity of 2.05 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
PPL carries more volatility with a beta of 0.60 — expect wider price swings.
PPL is growing revenue faster at 10.8% — sustainability is the question.
PPL generates stronger free cash flow (-501M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor UTILITIES - REGULATED ELECTRIC industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
PPL scores higher overall (67/100 vs 56/100) and 10.8% revenue growth. Both earn "Strong 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.
PPL Corporation
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - REGULATED ELECTRIC · USA
PPL Corporation is an energy company headquartered in Allentown, Pennsylvania, United States.
Southern Company
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - REGULATED ELECTRIC · USA
Southern Company is an American gas and electric utility holding company based in the southern United States. It is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, with executive offices also located in Birmingham, Alabama.
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