NRG Energy Inc. (NRG)vsPG&E Corp (PCG)
NRG
NRG Energy Inc.
$155.58
+4.41%
UTILITIES · Cap: $31.65B
PCG
PG&E Corp
$16.62
+1.53%
UTILITIES · Cap: $36.05B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
NRG Energy Inc. generates 19% more annual revenue ($30.71B vs $25.83B). PCG leads profitability with a 11.0% profit margin vs 2.8%. PCG appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.71. PCG earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 77/100 (B+).
NRG
Buy54
out of 100
Grade: C-
PCG
Strong Buy77
out of 100
Grade: B+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+59.0%
Fair Value
$391.91
Current Price
$155.58
$236.33 discount
Margin of Safety
-0.1%
Fair Value
$17.09
Current Price
$16.62
$0.47 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 42 in profit
Reasonable price relative to book value
Growing faster than its price suggests
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Strong operational efficiency at 23.9%
15.0% revenue growth
Earnings expanding 39.8% YoY
Areas to Watch
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Distress zone — elevated risk
2.8% margin — thin
Operating margin of 4.3%
Weak financial health signals
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Distress zone — elevated risk
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull 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.
Bull Case : PCG
The strongest argument for PCG centers on Price/Book, PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio. Revenue growth of 15.0% demonstrates continued momentum. PEG of 0.71 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
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.
Bear Case : PCG
The primary concerns for PCG are Piotroski F-Score, Free Cash Flow, Altman Z-Score.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
NRG carries more volatility with a beta of 1.34 — expect wider price swings.
PCG is growing revenue faster at 15.0% — sustainability is the question.
NRG generates stronger free cash flow (-175M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor UTILITIES - INDEPENDENT POWER PRODUCERS industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
PCG scores higher overall (77/100 vs 54/100) and 15.0% revenue growth. NRG offers better value entry with a 59.0% margin of safety. 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.
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.
PG&E Corp
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - REGULATED ELECTRIC · USA
PG&E Corporation, through its subsidiary, Pacific Gas and Electric Company, is engaged in the sale and delivery of electricity and natural gas to customers in northern and central California, United States. The company is headquartered in San Francisco, California.
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