Akamai Technologies Inc (AKAM)vsPalo Alto Networks Inc (PANW)
AKAM
Akamai Technologies Inc
$158.98
+0.52%
TECHNOLOGY · Cap: $19.41B
PANW
Palo Alto Networks Inc
$272.05
+0.03%
TECHNOLOGY · Cap: $241.01B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Palo Alto Networks Inc generates 132% more annual revenue ($9.89B vs $4.27B). PANW leads profitability with a 13.0% profit margin vs 10.2%. AKAM appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.58. PANW earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 57/100 (C).
AKAM
Hold47
out of 100
Grade: D+
PANW
Buy57
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+11.1%
Fair Value
$150.08
Current Price
$158.98
$8.90 discount
Margin of Safety
+39.7%
Fair Value
$441.96
Current Price
$272.05
$169.91 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
No standout strengths identified
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Earnings expanding 60.5% YoY
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Distress zone — elevated risk
Elevated debt levels
Weak financial health signals
ROE of 3.0% — below average capital efficiency
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : AKAM
AKAM has a balanced fundamental profile.
Bull Case : PANW
The strongest argument for PANW centers on Market Cap, EPS Growth, Debt/Equity. Revenue growth of 14.9% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : AKAM
The primary concerns for AKAM are PEG Ratio, Altman Z-Score, Debt/Equity. A P/E of 45.1x leaves little room for execution misses.
Bear Case : PANW
The primary concerns for PANW are Return on Equity, Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio. A P/E of 256.2x leaves little room for execution misses.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
PANW carries more volatility with a beta of 0.77 — expect wider price swings.
PANW is growing revenue faster at 14.9% — sustainability is the question.
PANW generates stronger free cash flow (788M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor SOFTWARE - INFRASTRUCTURE industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
PANW scores higher overall (57/100 vs 47/100) and 14.9% revenue growth. 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.
Akamai Technologies Inc
TECHNOLOGY · SOFTWARE - INFRASTRUCTURE · USA
Akamai Technologies, Inc. is a global content delivery network (CDN), cybersecurity, and cloud service company, providing web and Internet security services.
Visit Website →Palo Alto Networks Inc
TECHNOLOGY · SOFTWARE - INFRASTRUCTURE · USA
Palo Alto Networks, Inc. provides cybersecurity platform solutions globally. The company is headquartered in Santa Clara, California.
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