NRG Energy Inc. (NRG)vsWPP PLC ADR (WPP)
NRG
NRG Energy Inc.
$138.11
-2.64%
UTILITIES · Cap: $30.18B
WPP
WPP PLC ADR
$18.97
+1.12%
COMMUNICATION SERVICES · Cap: $4.05B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
NRG Energy Inc. generates 127% more annual revenue ($30.71B vs $13.55B). NRG leads profitability with a 2.8% profit margin vs -1.6%. NRG appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.34. NRG earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 56/100 (C).
NRG
Buy56
out of 100
Grade: C
WPP
Avoid32
out of 100
Grade: F
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+58.9%
Fair Value
$391.20
Current Price
$138.11
$253.09 discount
Margin of Safety
+75.6%
Fair Value
$75.12
Current Price
$18.97
$56.15 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 42 in profit
Generating 1.7B in free cash flow
Areas to Watch
Distress zone — elevated risk
2.8% margin — thin
Operating margin of 4.3%
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Operating margin of 2.2%
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
ROE of -5.3% — below average capital efficiency
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 1.34 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : WPP
The strongest argument for WPP centers on Free Cash Flow.
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.
Bear Case : WPP
The primary concerns for WPP are Operating Margin, Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio. Debt-to-equity of 2.13 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
NRG profiles as a value stock while WPP is a turnaround play — different risk/reward profiles.
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.
WPP generates stronger free cash flow (1.7B), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
NRG scores higher overall (56/100 vs 32/100) and 13.7% revenue growth. WPP offers better value entry with a 75.6% margin of safety. Both earn "Buy" 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.
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.
WPP PLC ADR
COMMUNICATION SERVICES · ADVERTISING AGENCIES · USA
WPP plc, a creative transformation company, provides communications, expertise, trade and technology services in North America, the UK, Western Continental Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, and Central and Eastern Europe. The company is headquartered in London, the United Kingdom.
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