Alliant Energy Corp (LNT)vsNRG Energy Inc. (NRG)
LNT
Alliant Energy Corp
$73.43
+1.99%
UTILITIES · Cap: $18.60B
NRG
NRG Energy Inc.
$155.58
+4.41%
UTILITIES · Cap: $31.65B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
NRG Energy Inc. generates 604% more annual revenue ($30.71B vs $4.36B). LNT leads profitability with a 18.6% profit margin vs 2.8%. NRG appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.37. NRG earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 54/100 (C-).
LNT
Buy54
out of 100
Grade: C-
NRG
Buy54
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-23.1%
Fair Value
$55.45
Current Price
$73.43
$17.98 premium
Margin of Safety
+59.0%
Fair Value
$391.91
Current Price
$155.58
$236.33 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Reasonable price relative to book value
Every $100 of equity generates 42 in profit
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Elevated debt levels
Weak financial health signals
Earnings declined 5.8%
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Distress zone — elevated risk
2.8% margin — thin
Operating margin of 4.3%
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : LNT
The strongest argument for LNT centers on Price/Book. Profitability is solid with margins at 18.6% and operating margin at 16.7%.
Bull Case : NRG
The strongest argument for NRG centers on Return on Equity. Revenue growth of 13.7% demonstrates continued momentum. PEG of 1.37 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : LNT
The primary concerns for LNT are PEG Ratio, Debt/Equity, Piotroski F-Score. Debt-to-equity of 1.63 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Bear Case : NRG
The primary concerns for NRG are P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score, Profit Margin. Thin 2.8% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
LNT profiles as a mature stock while NRG is a value play — different risk/reward profiles.
NRG carries more volatility with a beta of 1.34 — expect wider price swings.
NRG is growing revenue faster at 13.7% — sustainability is the question.
NRG generates stronger free cash flow (-175M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
LNT scores higher overall (54/100 vs 54/100), backed by strong 18.6% margins. NRG offers better value entry with a 59.0% 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.
Alliant Energy Corp
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - REGULATED ELECTRIC · USA
Alliant Energy is a public utility holding company headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin providing power in Iowa and Wisconsin.
Visit Website →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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