NRG Energy Inc. (NRG)vsU.S. Bancorp (USB)
NRG
NRG Energy Inc.
$151.04
-0.06%
UTILITIES · Cap: $32.08B
USB
U.S. Bancorp
$51.89
-0.48%
FINANCIAL SERVICES · Cap: $81.01B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
NRG Energy Inc. generates 17% more annual revenue ($30.71B vs $26.35B). USB leads profitability with a 28.7% profit margin vs 2.8%. NRG appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.29. USB earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 75/100 (B).
NRG
Buy54
out of 100
Grade: C-
USB
Strong Buy75
out of 100
Grade: B
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-490.6%
Fair Value
$27.20
Current Price
$151.04
$123.84 premium
Margin of Safety
+75.8%
Fair Value
$214.00
Current Price
$51.89
$162.11 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 42 in profit
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Reasonable price relative to book value
Strong operational efficiency at 39.3%
Large-cap with strong market position
Keeps 29 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Earnings expanding 24.7% YoY
Areas to Watch
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Distress zone — elevated risk
2.8% margin — thin
Operating margin of 4.3%
Expensive relative to growth rate
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 1.29 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : USB
The strongest argument for USB centers on P/E Ratio, Price/Book, Operating Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 28.7% and operating margin at 39.3%.
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 : USB
The primary concerns for USB are PEG Ratio, Altman Z-Score.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
NRG profiles as a value stock while USB is a mature play — different risk/reward profiles.
NRG carries more volatility with a beta of 1.26 — expect wider price swings.
NRG is growing revenue faster at 13.7% — sustainability is the question.
USB generates stronger free cash flow (2.8B), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
USB scores higher overall (75/100 vs 54/100), backed by strong 28.7% margins. 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.
U.S. Bancorp
FINANCIAL SERVICES · BANKS - REGIONAL · USA
U.S. Bancorp is an American bank holding company based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and incorporated in Delaware. The company provides banking, investment, mortgage, trust, and payment services products to individuals, businesses, governmental entities, and other financial institutions.
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