Illinois Tool Works Inc (ITW)vsNRG Energy Inc. (NRG)
ITW
Illinois Tool Works Inc
$254.76
-0.30%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $73.64B
NRG
NRG Energy Inc.
$138.11
-2.64%
UTILITIES · Cap: $30.18B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
NRG Energy Inc. generates 89% more annual revenue ($30.71B vs $16.22B). ITW leads profitability with a 19.3% profit margin vs 2.8%. NRG appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.34. ITW earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 60/100 (C).
ITW
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C
NRG
Buy56
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Intrinsic value data unavailable for ITW.
Margin of Safety
+58.9%
Fair Value
$391.20
Current Price
$138.11
$253.09 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 97 in profit
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Large-cap with strong market position
Strong operational efficiency at 25.4%
Every $100 of equity generates 42 in profit
Areas to Watch
4.6% revenue growth
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Trading at 22.8x book value
Distress zone — elevated risk
2.8% margin — thin
Operating margin of 4.3%
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : ITW
The strongest argument for ITW centers on Return on Equity, Altman Z-Score, Market Cap. Profitability is solid with margins at 19.3% and operating margin at 25.4%.
Bull Case : NRG
The strongest argument for NRG centers on Return on Equity. Revenue growth of 13.7% demonstrates continued momentum. PEG of 1.34 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : ITW
The primary concerns for ITW are Revenue Growth, Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio.
Bear Case : NRG
The primary concerns for NRG are Altman Z-Score, Profit Margin, Operating Margin. A P/E of 157.6x leaves little room for execution misses. Thin 2.8% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
NRG carries more volatility with a beta of 1.31 — expect wider price swings.
NRG is growing revenue faster at 13.7% — sustainability is the question.
Monitor SPECIALTY INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
ITW scores higher overall (60/100 vs 56/100), backed by strong 19.3% margins. NRG offers better value entry with a 58.9% 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.
Illinois Tool Works Inc
INDUSTRIALS · SPECIALTY INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY · USA
Illinois Tool Works Inc. or ITW is an American company that produces engineered fasteners and components, equipment and consumable systems, and specialty products.
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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