Suburban Propane Partners LP (SPH)vsEssential Utilities Inc (WTRG)
SPH
Suburban Propane Partners LP
$20.10
+2.55%
UTILITIES · Cap: $1.30B
WTRG
Essential Utilities Inc
$39.49
-0.35%
UTILITIES · Cap: $11.19B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Essential Utilities Inc generates 73% more annual revenue ($2.47B vs $1.43B). WTRG leads profitability with a 24.9% profit margin vs 9.3%. SPH appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.21. SPH earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 65/100 (B-).
SPH
Strong Buy65
out of 100
Grade: B-
WTRG
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+50.9%
Fair Value
$40.84
Current Price
$20.10
$20.74 discount
Margin of Safety
+47.6%
Fair Value
$71.49
Current Price
$39.49
$32.00 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Earnings expanding 130.0% YoY
Every $100 of equity generates 23 in profit
Reasonable price relative to book value
Strong operational efficiency at 32.4%
Keeps 25 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Reasonable price relative to book value
15.7% revenue growth
Areas to Watch
Smaller company, higher risk/reward
Revenue declined 0.8%
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Earnings declined 30.0%
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : SPH
The strongest argument for SPH centers on P/E Ratio, EPS Growth, Return on Equity. PEG of 1.21 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : WTRG
The strongest argument for WTRG centers on Operating Margin, Profit Margin, P/E Ratio. Profitability is solid with margins at 24.9% and operating margin at 32.4%. Revenue growth of 15.7% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : SPH
The primary concerns for SPH are Market Cap, Revenue Growth, Free Cash Flow.
Bear Case : WTRG
The primary concerns for WTRG are Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio, EPS Growth.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
SPH profiles as a value stock while WTRG is a growth play — different risk/reward profiles.
WTRG carries more volatility with a beta of 0.77 — expect wider price swings.
WTRG is growing revenue faster at 15.7% — sustainability is the question.
SPH generates stronger free cash flow (-67M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
SPH scores higher overall (65/100 vs 60/100). WTRG offers better value entry with a 47.6% 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.
Suburban Propane Partners LP
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - REGULATED GAS · USA
Suburban Propane Partners, LP, is engaged in the marketing and retail distribution of propane, fuel oil, and refined fuels. The company is headquartered in Whippany, New Jersey.
Essential Utilities Inc
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - REGULATED WATER · USA
Essential Utilities, Inc. operates regulated utilities that provide water, wastewater, or natural gas services in the United States. The company is headquartered in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania.
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