FirstEnergy Corp. vs Advanced Drainage Systems Inc — how do they compare? FirstEnergy Corp. trades at $46.86 (market cap $27.06B), while Advanced Drainage Systems Inc trades at $143.7 (market cap $10.68B). The key difference: FirstEnergy Corp. is far larger — about 2.5× Advanced Drainage Systems Inc's market cap, and FirstEnergy Corp. pays the higher dividend (3.98%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| FE | WMS | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $27.06B | $10.68B |
Sector | Utilities | Industrials |
52-Week High | $51.91 | $175.38 |
52-Week Low | $42.83 | $129.50 |
Enterprise Value | $55.98B | $12.29B |
Dividend Yield | 3.98% | 0.56% |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
FirstEnergy (FE) trades at $47.47, up 0.2% today, with a bearish technical signal from indicators like the 6-day RSI at 11.10 and ADX signaling strong trend strength. The company reported Q2 2026 EPS of $0.50, slightly missing expectations, but revenue growth is supported by data center demand and a $36 billion grid investment plan. Analyst consensus is a Buy with a $52.67 price target, though technicals suggest near-term pressure.
The outlook is mixed: strong fundamentals with rising revenue and stable margins offer long-term value, but technical bearishness and high debt levels pose risks. Investment opportunity lies in grid expansion and data center growth, while risks include execution challenges and interest rate sensitivity. The stock presents a defensive play with growth potential amid volatility.
Advanced Drainage Systems (WMS) trades at $143.95, down 3.03% on the day, with a neutral technical signal. The company reported strong Q2 2026 earnings of $2.49 per share, beating estimates, and maintains solid profitability with a 14% net income margin and 24.9% ROE. Recent news highlights Q1 fiscal 2027 sales growth of 21% and consistent dividend payments, though cash flow turned negative in 2025 due to increased investing activity.
The outlook is mixed; analyst consensus is a Buy with a $185.86 price target, but near-term risks include volatile cash flows and high valuation multiples. Upside potential hinges on execution of growth initiatives and infrastructure demand, while margin pressure and economic sensitivity pose challenges.
Trailing returns across standard periods
FirstEnergy is one of the largest investor-owned utilities in the United States with 10 regulated distribution companies across six mid-Atlantic and Midwestern states. FirstEnergy also owns and operates one of the nation's largest electric transmission systems with 24,000 miles of lines.
Read more on FE →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 →