NRG Energy Inc. (NRG)vsYum! Brands Inc (YUM)
NRG
NRG Energy Inc.
$151.04
-0.06%
UTILITIES · Cap: $32.08B
YUM
Yum! Brands Inc
$159.16
-0.17%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $44.27B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
NRG Energy Inc. generates 274% more annual revenue ($30.71B vs $8.21B). YUM leads profitability with a 19.0% profit margin vs 2.8%. NRG appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.29. YUM earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 59/100 (C).
NRG
Buy54
out of 100
Grade: C-
YUM
Buy59
out of 100
Grade: C
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
+38.8%
Fair Value
$259.74
Current Price
$159.16
$100.58 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 42 in profit
Strong operational efficiency at 31.9%
Earnings expanding 27.7% 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
Moderate valuation
ROE of 0.0% — below average capital efficiency
Weak financial health signals
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 : YUM
The strongest argument for YUM centers on Operating Margin, EPS Growth. Profitability is solid with margins at 19.0% and operating margin at 31.9%.
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 : YUM
The primary concerns for YUM are PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio, Return on Equity.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
NRG profiles as a value stock while YUM 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.
YUM generates stronger free cash flow (482M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
YUM scores higher overall (59/100 vs 54/100), backed by strong 19.0% margins. 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.
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.
Yum! Brands Inc
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · RESTAURANTS · USA
Yum! Brands, Inc. is an American fast food corporation listed on the Fortune 1000. Yum! operates the brands KFC, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, The Habit Burger Grill, and WingStreet worldwide, except in China, where the brands are operated by a separate company, Yum China.
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