Core & Main Inc (CNM)vsFastenal Company (FAST)
CNM
Core & Main Inc
$50.57
-0.02%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $9.55B
FAST
Fastenal Company
$45.37
+1.07%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $52.10B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Fastenal Company generates 6% more annual revenue ($8.20B vs $7.76B). FAST leads profitability with a 15.3% profit margin vs 5.6%. CNM appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.92. FAST earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 58/100 (C).
CNM
Buy55
out of 100
Grade: C-
FAST
Buy58
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-76.8%
Fair Value
$32.71
Current Price
$50.57
$17.86 premium
Margin of Safety
-99.0%
Fair Value
$23.63
Current Price
$45.37
$21.74 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 24 in profit
Every $100 of equity generates 33 in profit
Large-cap with strong market position
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
1.2% revenue growth
4.6% earnings growth
5.6% margin — thin
Trading at 13.2x book value
Expensive relative to growth rate
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : CNM
The strongest argument for CNM centers on Return on Equity.
Bull Case : FAST
The strongest argument for FAST centers on Return on Equity, Market Cap, Debt/Equity. Profitability is solid with margins at 15.3% and operating margin at 19.0%. Revenue growth of 11.1% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : CNM
The primary concerns for CNM are PEG Ratio, Revenue Growth, EPS Growth.
Bear Case : FAST
The primary concerns for FAST are Price/Book, PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio. A P/E of 41.6x leaves little room for execution misses.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
CNM profiles as a value stock while FAST is a mature play — different risk/reward profiles.
CNM carries more volatility with a beta of 0.98 — expect wider price swings.
FAST is growing revenue faster at 11.1% — sustainability is the question.
CNM generates stronger free cash flow (604M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
FAST scores higher overall (58/100 vs 55/100), backed by strong 15.3% margins and 11.1% revenue growth. 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.
Core & Main Inc
INDUSTRIALS · INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTION · USA
Core & Main Inc. (CNM) is a leading distributor of waterworks and plumbing products in the U.S., serving a diverse clientele that includes municipalities, contractors, and industrial clients. The company specializes in critical infrastructure solutions for water, wastewater, and stormwater management, emphasizing sustainable practices in an era of increasing environmental awareness. With a strong commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and customer service, Core & Main leverages its extensive supply chain to deliver high-quality products and solutions. As demand for infrastructure modernization and compliance with rigorous environmental regulations intensifies, Core & Main is poised to play a pivotal role in advancing essential water management initiatives, solidifying its position in a vital and evolving sector.
Visit Website →Fastenal Company
INDUSTRIALS · INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTION · USA
Fastenal Company is an American company based in Winona, Minnesota. Fastenal's service model centers on approximately 3,200 in-market locations, each providing custom inventory, and a dedicated sales team to support local businesses. Fastenal offers companies supply chain solutions that help business reduce inventory touches, and supply chain waste.
Visit Website →Compare with Other INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTION Stocks
Want to dig deeper into these stocks?