Acme United Corporation (ACU)vsEstee Lauder Companies Inc (EL)
ACU
Acme United Corporation
$47.50
-0.97%
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · Cap: $186.48M
EL
Estee Lauder Companies Inc
$84.44
+0.71%
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · Cap: $30.72B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Estee Lauder Companies Inc generates 7211% more annual revenue ($14.83B vs $202.88M). ACU leads profitability with a 4.7% profit margin vs -1.7%. EL appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.43. ACU earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 50/100 (C-).
ACU
Buy50
out of 100
Grade: C-
EL
Hold38
out of 100
Grade: F
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-36.1%
Fair Value
$32.18
Current Price
$47.50
$15.32 premium
Margin of Safety
+29.3%
Fair Value
$148.99
Current Price
$84.44
$64.55 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Reasonable price relative to book value
No standout strengths identified
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Smaller company, higher risk/reward
4.7% margin — thin
Operating margin of 3.3%
4.6% revenue growth
Distress zone — elevated risk
Weak financial health signals
ROE of -6.2% — below average capital efficiency
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : ACU
The strongest argument for ACU centers on Altman Z-Score, Price/Book. Revenue growth of 13.8% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bull Case : EL
PEG of 1.43 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : ACU
The primary concerns for ACU are PEG Ratio, Market Cap, Profit Margin. Thin 4.7% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Bear Case : EL
The primary concerns for EL are Revenue Growth, Altman Z-Score, Piotroski F-Score. Debt-to-equity of 2.33 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
ACU profiles as a value stock while EL is a turnaround play — different risk/reward profiles.
EL carries more volatility with a beta of 1.26 — expect wider price swings.
ACU is growing revenue faster at 13.8% — sustainability is the question.
EL generates stronger free cash flow (310M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
ACU scores higher overall (50/100 vs 38/100) and 13.8% revenue growth. EL offers better value entry with a 29.3% margin of safety. Both earn "Buy" and "Hold" ratings respectively — the choice depends on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.
This analysis is generated from publicly available financial data. Not financial advice.
Acme United Corporation
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · HOUSEHOLD & PERSONAL PRODUCTS · USA
Acme United Corporation supplies cutting, measuring, first aid, sharpening and safety products for the school, home, office, hardware, sporting goods and industrial markets in the United States, Canada, Europe and Asia. The company is headquartered in Shelton, Connecticut.
Estee Lauder Companies Inc
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · HOUSEHOLD & PERSONAL PRODUCTS · USA
The Estee Lauder Companies Inc. is an American multinational manufacturer and marketer of prestige skincare, makeup, fragrance and hair care products, based in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. The company owns a diverse portfolio of brands, distributed internationally through both digital commerce and retail channels.
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