Applied Industrial Technologies (AIT)vsFerguson Plc (FERG)
AIT
Applied Industrial Technologies
$266.00
+0.70%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $9.96B
FERG
Ferguson Plc
$228.84
+1.29%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $50.46B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Ferguson Plc generates 555% more annual revenue ($31.16B vs $4.75B). AIT leads profitability with a 8.5% profit margin vs 6.3%. FERG appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.55. FERG earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 61/100 (C+).
AIT
Buy52
out of 100
Grade: C-
FERG
Buy61
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-86.6%
Fair Value
$155.55
Current Price
$266.00
$110.45 premium
Margin of Safety
+39.9%
Fair Value
$445.00
Current Price
$228.84
$216.16 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Every $100 of equity generates 22 in profit
Every $100 of equity generates 33 in profit
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Large-cap with strong market position
Earnings expanding 23.9% YoY
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Moderate valuation
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Moderate valuation
6.3% margin — thin
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : AIT
The strongest argument for AIT centers on Altman Z-Score, Return on Equity.
Bull Case : FERG
The strongest argument for FERG centers on Return on Equity, Altman Z-Score, Market Cap.
Bear Case : AIT
The primary concerns for AIT are PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio, Piotroski F-Score.
Bear Case : FERG
The primary concerns for FERG are PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio, Profit Margin.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
FERG carries more volatility with a beta of 1.14 — expect wider price swings.
AIT is growing revenue faster at 8.4% — sustainability is the question.
AIT generates stronger free cash flow (92M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTION industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
FERG scores higher overall (61/100 vs 52/100). Both earn "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.
Applied Industrial Technologies
INDUSTRIALS · INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTION · USA
Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc. distributes industrial products in North America, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore. The company is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio.
Visit Website →Ferguson Plc
INDUSTRIALS · INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTION · USA
Ferguson plc distributes plumbing and heating products in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and Central Europe. The company is headquartered in Wokingham, the United Kingdom.
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