American States Water Company vs e l f Beauty Inc — how do they compare? American States Water Company trades at $87.53 (market cap $3.43B), while e l f Beauty Inc trades at $94.65 (market cap $5.62B). The key difference: e l f Beauty Inc is the larger of the two by market cap, and American States Water Company pays a 2.52% dividend while e l f Beauty Inc pays none. Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| AWR | ELF | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $3.43B | $5.62B |
Sector | Utilities | Technology |
52-Week High | $89.28 | $146.67 |
52-Week Low | $70.10 | $49.57 |
Enterprise Value | $4.33B | $6.20B |
Dividend Yield | 2.52% | — |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
American States Water (AWR) trades at $87.39, up 2.01% today, with strong technical momentum showing bullish moving averages and support at $86. The company reported Q2 2026 EPS of $1.09, beating estimates by 19.1%, driven by water rate increases and 11.2% revenue growth. AWR maintains exceptional profitability with 20.52% net margins and recently announced an 8.2% dividend increase, extending its 71-year dividend growth streak.
While AWR demonstrates operational excellence and dividend reliability, the stock faces valuation concerns with a P/E of 23.65 above sector averages. Analyst sentiment is mixed with only 20% buy ratings, reflecting concerns about limited upside. Regulatory dependency and high capital expenditures present ongoing risks, though the company's monopoly position and infrastructure investments provide stability.
ELF trades at $98.49, up 6.69% in 24 hours, near its 52-week high. The stock exhibits a bullish technical trend with strong support at $93 and resistance at $101. Recent Q2 2026 earnings beat expectations with EPS of $1.75 versus $0.71 expected, driven by 36% revenue growth and the Rhode acquisition. The company raised fiscal 2027 guidance, reflecting robust demand and international expansion.
Outlook remains positive due to consistent sales growth and strategic initiatives, but risks include high valuation (P/E 97.18) and reliance on acquisitions for growth. The stock offers growth potential but faces margin pressure from increased investments and competitive dynamics in the beauty sector.
Trailing returns across standard periods
Latest headlines on both assets
American States Water provides water and electric services to over one million people in the U.S. It also manages water and wastewater systems for various military bases under long-term privatization contracts.
Read more on AWR →e.l.f. Beauty is a leading cosmetics company offering high-quality, 100% vegan, and cruelty-free products. It is known for its affordable and prestige-quality makeup and skincare items for a diverse global audience.
Read more on ELF →