American Electric Power Co Inc (AEP)vsMiddlesex Water Company (MSEX)
AEP
American Electric Power Co Inc
$129.86
-0.36%
UTILITIES · Cap: $70.90B
MSEX
Middlesex Water Company
$57.64
-1.18%
UTILITIES · Cap: $1.06B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
American Electric Power Co Inc generates 11354% more annual revenue ($23.61B vs $206.14M). MSEX leads profitability with a 23.3% profit margin vs 14.2%. AEP appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 2.82. MSEX earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 65/100 (C+).
AEP
Buy64
out of 100
Grade: C+
MSEX
Buy65
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-88.4%
Fair Value
$69.11
Current Price
$129.86
$60.75 premium
Margin of Safety
-20.9%
Fair Value
$42.78
Current Price
$57.64
$14.86 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 26.9%
Strong operational efficiency at 34.4%
Keeps 23 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Reasonable price relative to book value
Earnings expanding 31.6% YoY
Areas to Watch
Elevated debt levels
Expensive relative to growth rate
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Distress zone — elevated risk
Smaller company, higher risk/reward
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : AEP
The strongest argument for AEP centers on Market Cap, Price/Book, Operating Margin. Revenue growth of 13.7% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bull Case : MSEX
The strongest argument for MSEX centers on Operating Margin, Profit Margin, Price/Book. Profitability is solid with margins at 23.3% and operating margin at 34.4%. Revenue growth of 14.3% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : AEP
The primary concerns for AEP are Debt/Equity, PEG Ratio, Free Cash Flow. Debt-to-equity of 1.66 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Bear Case : MSEX
The primary concerns for MSEX are Market Cap, Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AEP profiles as a value stock while MSEX is a mature play — different risk/reward profiles.
MSEX carries more volatility with a beta of 0.73 — expect wider price swings.
MSEX is growing revenue faster at 14.3% — sustainability is the question.
MSEX generates stronger free cash flow (-4M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
MSEX scores higher overall (65/100 vs 64/100), backed by strong 23.3% margins and 14.3% 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 →Middlesex Water Company
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - REGULATED WATER · USA
Middlesex Water Company owns and operates regulated water and wastewater utility systems. The company is headquartered in Iselin, New Jersey.
Visit Website →Compare with Other UTILITIES - REGULATED ELECTRIC Stocks
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