Essex Property Trust Inc (ESS)vsThe Southern Company JR 2017B NT 77 (SOJC)
ESS
Essex Property Trust Inc
$272.91
+0.57%
REAL ESTATE · Cap: $19.12B
SOJC
The Southern Company JR 2017B NT 77
$19.10
+0.47%
REAL ESTATE · Cap: $21.79B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
ESS leads profitability with a 20.9% profit margin vs 0.0%. SOJC trades at a lower P/E of 23.2x. ESS earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 49/100 (D+).
ESS
Hold49
out of 100
Grade: D+
SOJC
Avoid21
out of 100
Grade: F
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+34.9%
Fair Value
$401.67
Current Price
$272.91
$128.76 discount
Intrinsic value data unavailable for SOJC.
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Strong operational efficiency at 34.0%
Keeps 21 of every $100 in revenue as profit
No standout strengths identified
Areas to Watch
3.1% revenue growth
ROE of 7.8% — below average capital efficiency
Elevated debt levels
Expensive relative to growth rate
0.0% revenue growth
0.0% earnings growth
0.0% margin — thin
Operating margin of 0.0%
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : ESS
The strongest argument for ESS centers on Operating Margin, Profit Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 20.9% and operating margin at 34.0%.
Bull Case : SOJC
SOJC has a balanced fundamental profile.
Bear Case : ESS
The primary concerns for ESS are Revenue Growth, Return on Equity, Debt/Equity. A P/E of 43.3x leaves little room for execution misses.
Bear Case : SOJC
The primary concerns for SOJC are Revenue Growth, EPS Growth, Profit Margin. Debt-to-equity of 1.95 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
ESS is growing revenue faster at 3.1% — sustainability is the question.
ESS generates stronger free cash flow (234M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor REIT - RESIDENTIAL industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
ESS scores higher overall (49/100 vs 21/100), backed by strong 20.9% margins. Both earn "Hold" and "Avoid" ratings respectively — the choice depends on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.
This analysis is generated from publicly available financial data. Not financial advice.
Essex Property Trust Inc
REAL ESTATE · REIT - RESIDENTIAL · USA
Essex Property Trust is a publicly traded real estate investment trust that invests in apartments, primarily on the West Coast of the United States.
The Southern Company JR 2017B NT 77
REAL ESTATE · REIT - RESIDENTIAL · USA
The Southern Company is dedicated to the generation, transmission and distribution of electric power. The company is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.
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