Duke Energy Corporation (DUK)vsMiddlesex Water Company (MSEX)
DUK
Duke Energy Corporation
$124.22
+0.11%
UTILITIES · Cap: $97.67B
MSEX
Middlesex Water Company
$51.93
-1.48%
UTILITIES · Cap: $980.01M
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Duke Energy Corporation generates 16333% more annual revenue ($32.72B vs $199.11M). MSEX leads profitability with a 22.1% profit margin vs 15.7%. DUK appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 2.65. DUK earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 67/100 (B-).
DUK
Strong Buy67
out of 100
Grade: B-
MSEX
Buy59
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Intrinsic value data unavailable for DUK.
Margin of Safety
-24.5%
Fair Value
$41.53
Current Price
$51.93
$10.40 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 25.5%
Keeps 22 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Reasonable price relative to book value
Strong operational efficiency at 29.3%
Areas to Watch
Elevated debt levels
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
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 : 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.
Bull Case : MSEX
The strongest argument for MSEX centers on Profit Margin, Price/Book, Operating Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 22.1% and operating margin at 29.3%.
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.
Bear Case : MSEX
The primary concerns for MSEX are Market Cap, Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
MSEX carries more volatility with a beta of 0.78 — expect wider price swings.
DUK is growing revenue faster at 11.3% — sustainability is the question.
MSEX generates stronger free cash flow (-9M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor UTILITIES - REGULATED ELECTRIC industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
DUK scores higher overall (67/100 vs 59/100), backed by strong 15.7% margins and 11.3% revenue growth. Both earn "Strong 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.
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 →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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