American Electric Power Co Inc (AEP)vsCenterPoint Energy Inc (CNP)
AEP
American Electric Power Co Inc
$130.16
-1.21%
UTILITIES · Cap: $70.82B
CNP
CenterPoint Energy Inc
$41.72
-1.23%
UTILITIES · Cap: $27.63B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
American Electric Power Co Inc generates 138% more annual revenue ($22.43B vs $9.41B). AEP leads profitability with a 16.3% profit margin vs 11.4%. CNP appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 2.53. AEP earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 64/100 (C+).
AEP
Buy64
out of 100
Grade: C+
CNP
Buy56
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-54.0%
Fair Value
$79.36
Current Price
$130.16
$50.80 premium
Margin of Safety
-52.5%
Fair Value
$26.92
Current Price
$41.72
$14.80 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Large-cap with strong market position
Reasonable price relative to book value
Strong operational efficiency at 23.7%
Reasonable price relative to book value
Strong operational efficiency at 22.0%
Areas to Watch
Elevated debt levels
Expensive relative to growth rate
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Distress zone — elevated risk
Moderate valuation
1.9% revenue growth
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : AEP
The strongest argument for AEP centers on Market Cap, Price/Book, Operating Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 16.3% and operating margin at 23.7%. Revenue growth of 10.2% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bull Case : CNP
The strongest argument for CNP centers on Price/Book, Operating Margin.
Bear Case : AEP
The primary concerns for AEP are Debt/Equity, PEG Ratio, Free Cash Flow. Debt-to-equity of 1.61 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Bear Case : CNP
The primary concerns for CNP are P/E Ratio, Revenue Growth, Piotroski F-Score.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AEP profiles as a mature stock while CNP is a value play — different risk/reward profiles.
AEP carries more volatility with a beta of 0.55 — expect wider price swings.
AEP is growing revenue faster at 10.2% — sustainability is the question.
CNP generates stronger free cash flow (-916M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
AEP scores higher overall (64/100 vs 56/100), backed by strong 16.3% margins and 10.2% 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.
American Electric Power Co Inc
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - REGULATED ELECTRIC · USA
American Electric Power (AEP) is a major investor-owned electric utility in the United States, delivering electricity to more than five million customers in 11 states.
Visit Website →CenterPoint Energy Inc
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - REGULATED ELECTRIC · USA
CenterPoint Energy, Inc. is an American Fortune 500 electric and natural gas utility serving several markets in the American states of Arkansas, Indiana, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Texas.
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