The AES Corporation (AES)vsDuke Energy Corporation (DUK)
AES
The AES Corporation
$14.67
-0.41%
UTILITIES · Cap: $10.47B
DUK
Duke Energy Corporation
$124.22
+0.11%
UTILITIES · Cap: $97.67B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Duke Energy Corporation generates 162% more annual revenue ($32.72B vs $12.49B). DUK leads profitability with a 15.7% profit margin vs 10.8%. AES appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.09. AES earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 71/100 (B).
AES
Strong Buy71
out of 100
Grade: B
DUK
Strong Buy67
out of 100
Grade: B-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-44.0%
Fair Value
$11.42
Current Price
$14.67
$3.25 premium
Intrinsic value data unavailable for DUK.
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Every $100 of equity generates 30 in profit
Earnings expanding 951.0% YoY
Reasonable price relative to book value
Large-cap with strong market position
Reasonable price relative to book value
Strong operational efficiency at 25.5%
Areas to Watch
Weak financial health signals
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Distress zone — elevated risk
Elevated debt levels
Elevated debt levels
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : AES
The strongest argument for AES centers on P/E Ratio, Return on Equity, EPS Growth. PEG of 1.09 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : DUK
The strongest argument for DUK centers on Market Cap, Price/Book, Operating Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 15.7% and operating margin at 25.5%. Revenue growth of 11.3% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : AES
The primary concerns for AES are Piotroski F-Score, Free Cash Flow, Altman Z-Score. Debt-to-equity of 7.01 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Bear Case : DUK
The primary concerns for DUK are Debt/Equity, Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio. Debt-to-equity of 1.66 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AES profiles as a value stock while DUK is a mature play — different risk/reward profiles.
AES carries more volatility with a beta of 0.95 — expect wider price swings.
DUK is growing revenue faster at 11.3% — sustainability is the question.
AES generates stronger free cash flow (-565M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
AES scores higher overall (71/100 vs 67/100). Both earn "Strong Buy" and "Strong 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.
The AES Corporation
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - DIVERSIFIED · USA
The AES Corporation is a Fortune 500 company that generates and distributes electrical power. AES is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia.
Visit Website →Duke Energy Corporation
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - REGULATED ELECTRIC · USA
Duke Energy Corporation is an American electric power and natural gas holding company headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Visit Website →Compare with Other UTILITIES - DIVERSIFIED Stocks
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