Agilent Technologies Inc (A)vsICON PLC (ICLR)
A
Agilent Technologies Inc
$135.44
-2.12%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $36.67B
ICLR
ICON PLC
$149.45
-2.19%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $11.19B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
ICON PLC generates 14% more annual revenue ($8.25B vs $7.23B). A leads profitability with a 19.6% profit margin vs 2.8%. ICLR appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.48. A earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 71/100 (B).
A
Strong Buy71
out of 100
Grade: B
ICLR
Buy57
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-73.4%
Fair Value
$74.34
Current Price
$135.44
$61.10 premium
Margin of Safety
+61.9%
Fair Value
$349.56
Current Price
$149.45
$200.11 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Earnings expanding 60.0% YoY
Strong operational efficiency at 23.7%
Growing faster than its price suggests
Reasonable price relative to book value
Areas to Watch
Moderate valuation
Grey zone — moderate risk
Weak financial health signals
Distress zone — elevated risk
ROE of 6.4% — below average capital efficiency
2.8% margin — thin
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : A
The strongest argument for A centers on EPS Growth, Operating Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 19.6% and operating margin at 23.7%. PEG of 1.28 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : ICLR
The strongest argument for ICLR centers on PEG Ratio, Price/Book. Revenue growth of 12.4% demonstrates continued momentum. PEG of 0.48 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : A
The primary concerns for A are P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score, Piotroski F-Score.
Bear Case : ICLR
The primary concerns for ICLR are Altman Z-Score, Return on Equity, Profit Margin. A P/E of 50.6x leaves little room for execution misses. Thin 2.8% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
A profiles as a mature stock while ICLR is a value play — different risk/reward profiles.
ICLR carries more volatility with a beta of 1.27 — expect wider price swings.
ICLR is growing revenue faster at 12.4% — sustainability is the question.
ICLR generates stronger free cash flow (623M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
A scores higher overall (71/100 vs 57/100), backed by strong 19.6% margins. ICLR offers better value entry with a 61.9% 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.
Agilent Technologies Inc
HEALTHCARE · DIAGNOSTICS & RESEARCH · USA
Agilent Technologies, Inc. is an American analytical instrumentation development and manufacturing company that offers its products and services to markets worldwide. Its global headquarters is located in Santa Clara, California.
ICON PLC
HEALTHCARE · DIAGNOSTICS & RESEARCH · USA
ICON Public Limited Company, a clinical research organization, provides outsourced marketing and development services in Ireland, the rest of Europe, the United States and internationally. The company is headquartered in Dublin, Ireland.
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