Verizon Communications Inc (VZ)vsEssential Utilities Inc (WTRG)
VZ
Verizon Communications Inc
$47.44
+0.21%
COMMUNICATION SERVICES · Cap: $200.91B
WTRG
Essential Utilities Inc
$37.54
+0.13%
UTILITIES · Cap: $10.77B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Verizon Communications Inc generates 5523% more annual revenue ($139.15B vs $2.47B). WTRG leads profitability with a 24.9% profit margin vs 12.5%. VZ appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.90. VZ earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 69/100 (B-).
VZ
Strong Buy69
out of 100
Grade: B-
WTRG
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-4.9%
Fair Value
$45.11
Current Price
$47.44
$2.33 premium
Margin of Safety
+47.4%
Fair Value
$71.13
Current Price
$37.54
$33.59 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Growing faster than its price suggests
Reasonable price relative to book value
Strong operational efficiency at 25.2%
Generating 3.8B in free cash flow
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
2.9% revenue growth
4.3% earnings growth
Weak financial health signals
Distress zone — elevated risk
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 : VZ
The strongest argument for VZ centers on Market Cap, P/E Ratio, PEG Ratio. PEG of 0.90 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 : VZ
The primary concerns for VZ are Revenue Growth, EPS Growth, Piotroski F-Score.
Bear Case : WTRG
The primary concerns for WTRG are Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio, EPS Growth.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
VZ 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.
VZ generates stronger free cash flow (3.8B), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
VZ scores higher overall (69/100 vs 60/100). WTRG offers better value entry with a 47.4% 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.
Verizon Communications Inc
COMMUNICATION SERVICES · TELECOM SERVICES · USA
Verizon Communications Inc. is an American multinational telecommunications conglomerate and a corporate component of the Dow Jones Industrial Average. The company is headquartered at 1095 Avenue of the Americas in Midtown Manhattan, New York City, but is incorporated in Delaware.
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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