American States Water Company vs Advanced Drainage Systems Inc — how do they compare? American States Water Company trades at $85.38 (market cap $3.33B), while Advanced Drainage Systems Inc trades at $150.24 (market cap $11.57B). The key difference: Advanced Drainage Systems Inc is far larger — about 3.5× American States Water Company's market cap, and American States Water Company pays the higher dividend (2.37%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| AWR | WMS | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $3.33B | $11.57B |
Sector | Utilities | Industrials |
52-Week High | $85.05 | $175.38 |
52-Week Low | $70.10 | $110.89 |
Enterprise Value | $4.24B | $13.14B |
Dividend Yield | 2.37% | 0.53% |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
American States Water (AWR) trades at $85.05, up 0.64% today, with a bullish technical signal from moving averages and strong profitability metrics including a 19.66% net income margin. Recent news highlights its inclusion in TIME's America's Best Companies 2026 list and a completed $200 million ATM equity offering. The stock shows consistent dividend performance with a 71-year growth streak, though recent quarters saw mixed earnings results versus expectations.
Outlook remains stable with revenue growth to $679 million in 2026 and solid cash flow, but risks include regulatory pressures and interest rate sensitivity. Analysts are cautious with only 20% buy ratings. The stock offers defensive appeal but faces execution risks in a high-valuation environment.
WMS trades at $147.62, down 1.89% on the day, with a bullish technical signal and strong fundamentals including a 24.02% ROE and consistent earnings beats. Recent news includes a dividend increase and investor day, while cash flow dipped in 2025 but is projected to recover. The stock shows robust profitability with a 13.98% net margin and trades below the consensus price target of $184.43.
Outlook is positive with analyst support and operational strength, but risks include a high P/E of 27.09 and mixed sentiment from recent Strong Sell ratings. Upside potential exists if earnings momentum continues, though investors should monitor debt levels and competitive pressures in the water management sector.
Trailing returns across standard periods
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 →Advanced Drainage Systems Inc is engaged in designing, manufacturing, and marketing thermoplastic corrugated pipe and related water management products in North and South America, and Europe. The company's operating segment includes Pipe
Read more on WMS →