WallStSmart

Air Products and Chemicals Inc (APD)vsWestlake Chemical Corporation (WLK)

VS

Smart Verdict

WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison

Air Products and Chemicals Inc generates 14% more annual revenue ($12.46B vs $10.98B). APD leads profitability with a 16.9% profit margin vs -14.9%. WLK appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.70. APD earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 57/100 (C).

APD

Buy

57

out of 100

Grade: C

Growth: 4.7Profit: 7.0Value: 4.0Quality: 3.5
Piotroski: 1/9Altman Z: 1.36

WLK

Hold

37

out of 100

Grade: F

Growth: 2.0Profit: 2.0Value: 5.0Quality: 6.0
Piotroski: 2/9Altman Z: 1.66
IV

Intrinsic Value Comparison

Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula

APDSignificantly Overvalued (-89.1%)

Margin of Safety

-89.1%

Fair Value

$146.39

Current Price

$282.35

$135.96 premium

UndervaluedFair: $146.39Overvalued
WLKUndervalued (+11.3%)

Margin of Safety

+11.3%

Fair Value

$113.15

Current Price

$84.64

$28.51 discount

UndervaluedFair: $113.15Overvalued

Key Strengths & Concerns

Side-by-side fundamental analysis

Key Strengths

APD2 strengths · Avg: 8.5/10
Market CapQuality
$62.19B9/10

Large-cap with strong market position

Operating MarginProfitability
23.6%8/10

Strong operational efficiency at 23.6%

WLK1 strengths · Avg: 10.0/10
Price/BookValuation
1.2x10/10

Reasonable price relative to book value

Areas to Watch

APD4 concerns · Avg: 3.5/10
PEG RatioValuation
2.094/10

Expensive relative to growth rate

P/E RatioValuation
29.5x4/10

Moderate valuation

Debt/EquityHealth
1.173/10

Elevated debt levels

Piotroski F-ScoreQuality
1/93/10

Weak financial health signals

WLK4 concerns · Avg: 3.3/10
PEG RatioValuation
1.704/10

Expensive relative to growth rate

Altman Z-ScoreHealth
1.664/10

Distress zone — elevated risk

Piotroski F-ScoreQuality
2/93/10

Weak financial health signals

Return on EquityProfitability
-19.1%2/10

ROE of -19.1% — below average capital efficiency

Comparative Analysis Report

WallStSmart Research

Bull Case : APD

The strongest argument for APD centers on Market Cap, Operating Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 16.9% and operating margin at 23.6%.

Bull Case : WLK

The strongest argument for WLK centers on Price/Book.

Bear Case : APD

The primary concerns for APD are PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio, Debt/Equity.

Bear Case : WLK

The primary concerns for WLK are PEG Ratio, Altman Z-Score, Piotroski F-Score.

Key Dynamics to Monitor

APD profiles as a mature stock while WLK is a turnaround play — different risk/reward profiles.

APD carries more volatility with a beta of 0.78 — expect wider price swings.

APD is growing revenue faster at 8.8% — sustainability is the question.

APD generates stronger free cash flow (-148M), providing more financial flexibility.

Bottom Line

APD scores higher overall (57/100 vs 37/100), backed by strong 16.9% margins. 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.

Air Products and Chemicals Inc

BASIC MATERIALS · SPECIALTY CHEMICALS · USA

Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. is an American international corporation whose principal business is selling gases and chemicals for industrial uses. Air Products' headquarters is in Allentown, Pennsylvania.

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Westlake Chemical Corporation

BASIC MATERIALS · SPECIALTY CHEMICALS · USA

Westlake Chemical Corporation (WLK) is a leading global manufacturer of petrochemicals, polymers, and fabricated products, serving critical sectors including construction, automotive, and packaging. The company operates primarily through its Olefins and Vinyls segments, strategically positioned to capitalize on global economic trends and increasing product demand. With a strong commitment to sustainability, Westlake invests in innovative technologies that enhance operational efficiency and minimize environmental impact. Its significant manufacturing footprint in North America and Europe, combined with disciplined financial management, positions Westlake for continued growth and enhanced shareholder value in a dynamic market landscape.

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