The AES Corporation (AES)vsNRG Energy Inc. (NRG)
AES
The AES Corporation
$14.45
0.00%
UTILITIES · Cap: $10.30B
NRG
NRG Energy Inc.
$155.58
+4.41%
UTILITIES · Cap: $31.65B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
NRG Energy Inc. generates 151% more annual revenue ($30.71B vs $12.23B). AES leads profitability with a 7.4% profit margin vs 2.8%. AES appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.09. AES earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 55/100 (C).
AES
Buy55
out of 100
Grade: C
NRG
Buy54
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+9.3%
Fair Value
$18.13
Current Price
$14.45
$3.68 discount
Margin of Safety
+59.0%
Fair Value
$391.91
Current Price
$155.58
$236.33 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Reasonable price relative to book value
Every $100 of equity generates 42 in profit
Areas to Watch
4.7% revenue growth
ROE of 1.9% — below average capital efficiency
7.4% margin — thin
Weak financial health signals
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Distress zone — elevated risk
2.8% margin — thin
Operating margin of 4.3%
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : AES
The strongest argument for AES centers on P/E Ratio, Price/Book. PEG of 1.09 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : NRG
The strongest argument for NRG centers on Return on Equity. Revenue growth of 13.7% demonstrates continued momentum. PEG of 1.37 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : AES
The primary concerns for AES are Revenue Growth, Return on Equity, Profit Margin. Debt-to-equity of 7.98 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Bear Case : NRG
The primary concerns for NRG are P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score, Profit Margin. Thin 2.8% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
NRG carries more volatility with a beta of 1.34 — expect wider price swings.
NRG is growing revenue faster at 13.7% — sustainability is the question.
AES generates stronger free cash flow (-47M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor UTILITIES - DIVERSIFIED industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
AES scores higher overall (55/100 vs 54/100). NRG offers better value entry with a 59.0% margin of safety. 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.
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 →NRG Energy Inc.
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - INDEPENDENT POWER PRODUCERS · USA
NRG Energy, Inc. is a large American energy company, headquartered in Houston, Texas. It was formerly the wholesale arm of Northern States Power Company (NSP), which became Xcel Energy, but became independent in 2000. NRG Energy is involved in energy generation and retail electricity.
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