Cisco Systems Inc (CSCO)vsTaiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (TSM)
CSCO
Cisco Systems Inc
$81.83
+1.20%
TECHNOLOGY · Cap: $319.49B
TSM
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing
$347.75
+1.31%
TECHNOLOGY · Cap: $1.71T
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing generates 6350% more annual revenue ($3.81T vs $59.05B). TSM leads profitability with a 45.1% profit margin vs 18.8%. TSM appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.17. TSM earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 82/100 (A-).
CSCO
Strong Buy70
out of 100
Grade: B-
TSM
Exceptional Buy82
out of 100
Grade: A-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+37.1%
Fair Value
$130.10
Current Price
$81.83
$48.27 discount
Margin of Safety
+20.3%
Fair Value
$483.91
Current Price
$347.75
$136.16 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Every $100 of equity generates 24 in profit
Strong operational efficiency at 24.9%
Earnings expanding 31.2% YoY
Generating 1.5B in free cash flow
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Every $100 of equity generates 35 in profit
Keeps 45 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Strong operational efficiency at 53.9%
Generating 388.2B in free cash flow
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Areas to Watch
Moderate valuation
Distress zone — elevated risk
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Trading at 52.9x book value
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : CSCO
The strongest argument for CSCO centers on Market Cap, Return on Equity, Operating Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 18.8% and operating margin at 24.9%. PEG of 1.32 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : TSM
The strongest argument for TSM centers on Market Cap, Return on Equity, Profit Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 45.1% and operating margin at 53.9%. Revenue growth of 20.5% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : CSCO
The primary concerns for CSCO are P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score.
Bear Case : TSM
The primary concerns for TSM are P/E Ratio, Price/Book.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
CSCO profiles as a mature stock while TSM is a growth play — different risk/reward profiles.
TSM carries more volatility with a beta of 1.28 — expect wider price swings.
TSM is growing revenue faster at 20.5% — sustainability is the question.
TSM generates stronger free cash flow (388.2B), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
TSM scores higher overall (82/100 vs 70/100), backed by strong 45.1% margins and 20.5% revenue growth. CSCO offers better value entry with a 37.1% margin of safety. Both earn "Exceptional Buy" and "Strong 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.
Cisco Systems Inc
TECHNOLOGY · COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT · USA
Cisco Systems, Inc. is an American multinational technology conglomerate headquartered in San Jose, California, in the center of Silicon Valley. Cisco develops, manufactures and sells networking hardware, software, telecommunications equipment and other high-technology services and products. Through its numerous acquired subsidiaries, such as OpenDNS, Webex, Jabber and Jasper, Cisco specializes in specific tech markets, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), domain security and energy management. On January 25, 2021, Cisco reincorporated in Delaware.
Visit Website →Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing
TECHNOLOGY · SEMICONDUCTORS · USA
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, Limited is a Taiwanese multinational semiconductor contract manufacturing and design company. It is one of Taiwan's largest companies, the world's most valuable semiconductor company, and the world's largest dedicated independent (pure-play) semiconductor foundry, with its headquarters and main operations located in the Hsinchu Science Park in Hsinchu, Taiwan. It is majority owned by foreign investors.
Visit Website →Compare with Other COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT Stocks
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