Core & Main Inc (CNM)vsFederal Signal Corporation (FSS)
CNM
Core & Main Inc
$45.47
-2.24%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $8.51B
FSS
Federal Signal Corporation
$127.83
-1.81%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $7.63B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Core & Main Inc generates 212% more annual revenue ($7.65B vs $2.45B). FSS leads profitability with a 11.7% profit margin vs 5.9%. CNM appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.26. FSS earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 64/100 (C+).
CNM
Buy55
out of 100
Grade: C-
FSS
Buy64
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-30.6%
Fair Value
$33.66
Current Price
$45.47
$11.81 premium
Intrinsic value data unavailable for FSS.
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 22 in profit
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
18.7% revenue growth
Earnings expanding 20.7% YoY
Areas to Watch
5.9% margin — thin
Elevated debt levels
Revenue declined 0.1%
Expensive relative to growth rate
Moderate valuation
Weak financial health signals
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : CNM
The strongest argument for CNM centers on Return on Equity. PEG of 1.26 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : FSS
The strongest argument for FSS centers on Altman Z-Score, Revenue Growth, EPS Growth. Revenue growth of 18.7% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : CNM
The primary concerns for CNM are Profit Margin, Debt/Equity, Revenue Growth.
Bear Case : FSS
The primary concerns for FSS are PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio, Piotroski F-Score.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
CNM profiles as a value stock while FSS is a growth play — different risk/reward profiles.
FSS carries more volatility with a beta of 1.23 — expect wider price swings.
FSS is growing revenue faster at 18.7% — sustainability is the question.
FSS generates stronger free cash flow (95M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
FSS scores higher overall (64/100 vs 55/100) and 18.7% 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 across the United States, serving a diverse client base that includes municipalities, contractors, and industrial entities. The company emphasizes innovative and sustainable solutions for water management, wastewater treatment, and stormwater infrastructure, positioning itself to address the growing need for infrastructure modernization in line with strict environmental standards. With a strong supply chain and deep industry knowledge, Core & Main is well-equipped to tackle critical challenges in the utilities sector, reinforcing its status as a key player in promoting effective water management practices.
Visit Website →Federal Signal Corporation
INDUSTRIALS · FARM & HEAVY CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY · USA
Federal Signal Corporation designs, manufactures, and supplies a suite of integrated products and solutions for municipal, government, industrial, and commercial customers in the United States, Canada, Europe, and internationally. The company is headquartered in Oak Brook, Illinois.
Visit Website →Compare with Other INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTION Stocks
Want to dig deeper into these stocks?