American Electric Power Co Inc (AEP)vsNorthWestern Corporation (NWE)
AEP
American Electric Power Co Inc
$125.73
+0.38%
UTILITIES · Cap: $69.87B
NWE
NorthWestern Corporation
$72.09
+2.59%
UTILITIES · Cap: $4.23B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
American Electric Power Co Inc generates 1247% more annual revenue ($22.79B vs $1.69B). AEP leads profitability with a 13.8% profit margin vs 10.1%. AEP appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 2.18. NWE earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 61/100 (C+).
AEP
Buy56
out of 100
Grade: C
NWE
Buy61
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Intrinsic value data unavailable for AEP.
Margin of Safety
-22.0%
Fair Value
$56.09
Current Price
$72.09
$16.00 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 23.3%
Reasonable price relative to book value
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Elevated debt levels
Earnings declined 43.2%
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Moderate valuation
ROE of 5.8% — below average capital efficiency
Elevated debt levels
Weak financial health signals
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : AEP
The strongest argument for AEP centers on Market Cap, Price/Book, Operating Margin.
Bull Case : NWE
The strongest argument for NWE centers on Price/Book. Revenue growth of 14.6% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : AEP
The primary concerns for AEP are PEG Ratio, Debt/Equity, EPS Growth. Debt-to-equity of 1.63 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Bear Case : NWE
The primary concerns for NWE are P/E Ratio, Return on Equity, Debt/Equity.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AEP carries more volatility with a beta of 0.51 — expect wider price swings.
NWE is growing revenue faster at 14.6% — sustainability is the question.
NWE generates stronger free cash flow (43M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor UTILITIES - REGULATED ELECTRIC industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
NWE scores higher overall (61/100 vs 56/100) and 14.6% 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 →NorthWestern Corporation
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - REGULATED ELECTRIC · USA
NorthWestern Corporation, doing business as NorthWestern Energy, provides electricity and natural gas to residential, commercial and industrial customers. The company is headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Visit Website →Compare with Other UTILITIES - REGULATED ELECTRIC Stocks
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