CSX Corporation (CSX)vsEssential Utilities Inc (WTRG)
CSX
CSX Corporation
$45.60
+1.27%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $83.10B
WTRG
Essential Utilities Inc
$37.54
+0.13%
UTILITIES · Cap: $10.77B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
CSX Corporation generates 472% more annual revenue ($14.15B vs $2.47B). WTRG leads profitability with a 24.9% profit margin vs 21.5%. CSX appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 2.09. CSX earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 65/100 (C+).
CSX
Buy65
out of 100
Grade: C+
WTRG
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+44.4%
Fair Value
$74.29
Current Price
$45.60
$28.69 discount
Margin of Safety
+47.4%
Fair Value
$71.13
Current Price
$37.54
$33.59 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Strong operational efficiency at 36.2%
Large-cap with strong market position
Every $100 of equity generates 24 in profit
Keeps 22 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Earnings expanding 26.5% YoY
Strong operational efficiency at 32.4%
Keeps 25 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Reasonable price relative to book value
15.7% revenue growth
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Moderate valuation
1.7% revenue growth
Elevated debt levels
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Earnings declined 30.0%
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : CSX
The strongest argument for CSX centers on Operating Margin, Market Cap, Return on Equity. Profitability is solid with margins at 21.5% and operating margin at 36.2%.
Bull Case : WTRG
The strongest argument for WTRG centers on Operating Margin, Profit Margin, P/E Ratio. Profitability is solid with margins at 24.9% and operating margin at 32.4%. Revenue growth of 15.7% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : CSX
The primary concerns for CSX are PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio, Revenue Growth.
Bear Case : WTRG
The primary concerns for WTRG are Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio, EPS Growth.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
CSX profiles as a value stock while WTRG is a growth play — different risk/reward profiles.
CSX carries more volatility with a beta of 1.24 — expect wider price swings.
WTRG is growing revenue faster at 15.7% — sustainability is the question.
CSX generates stronger free cash flow (729M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
CSX scores higher overall (65/100 vs 60/100), backed by strong 21.5% margins. WTRG offers better value entry with a 47.4% 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.
CSX Corporation
INDUSTRIALS · RAILROADS · USA
CSX Corporation is an American holding company focused on rail transportation and real estate in North America, among other industries. Based in Richmond, Virginia, USA after the merger, in 2003 the CSX Corporation headquarters moved to Jacksonville, Florida.
Visit Website →Essential Utilities Inc
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - REGULATED WATER · USA
Essential Utilities, Inc. operates regulated utilities that provide water, wastewater, or natural gas services in the United States. The company is headquartered in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania.
Visit Website →Compare with Other RAILROADS Stocks
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