Duke Energy Corporation (DUK)vsMiddlesex Water Company (MSEX)
DUK
Duke Energy Corporation
$128.38
-1.46%
UTILITIES · Cap: $99.33B
MSEX
Middlesex Water Company
$57.64
-1.18%
UTILITIES · Cap: $1.06B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Duke Energy Corporation generates 15813% more annual revenue ($32.80B vs $206.14M). MSEX leads profitability with a 23.3% profit margin vs 16.0%. DUK appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 2.37. MSEX earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 65/100 (C+).
DUK
Buy63
out of 100
Grade: C+
MSEX
Buy65
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-89.7%
Fair Value
$67.16
Current Price
$128.38
$61.22 premium
Margin of Safety
-20.9%
Fair Value
$42.78
Current Price
$57.64
$14.86 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 27.5%
Strong operational efficiency at 34.4%
Keeps 23 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Reasonable price relative to book value
Earnings expanding 31.6% YoY
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
1.1% revenue growth
Elevated debt levels
Weak financial health signals
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 16.0% and operating margin at 27.5%.
Bull Case : MSEX
The strongest argument for MSEX centers on Operating Margin, Profit Margin, Price/Book. Profitability is solid with margins at 23.3% and operating margin at 34.4%. Revenue growth of 14.3% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : DUK
The primary concerns for DUK are PEG Ratio, Revenue Growth, Debt/Equity. Debt-to-equity of 1.67 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
DUK profiles as a value stock while MSEX is a mature play — different risk/reward profiles.
MSEX carries more volatility with a beta of 0.73 — expect wider price swings.
MSEX is growing revenue faster at 14.3% — sustainability is the question.
MSEX generates stronger free cash flow (-4M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
MSEX scores higher overall (65/100 vs 63/100), backed by strong 23.3% margins and 14.3% 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.
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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