Cintas Corporation (CTAS)vsQuad Graphics Inc (QUAD)
CTAS
Cintas Corporation
$179.85
-0.06%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $69.91B
QUAD
Quad Graphics Inc
$7.54
+2.72%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $386.70M
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Cintas Corporation generates 365% more annual revenue ($11.03B vs $2.37B). CTAS leads profitability with a 17.6% profit margin vs 1.2%. QUAD appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.84. CTAS earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 58/100 (C).
CTAS
Buy58
out of 100
Grade: C
QUAD
Buy56
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-38.5%
Fair Value
$144.61
Current Price
$179.85
$35.24 premium
Intrinsic value data unavailable for QUAD.
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 40 in profit
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Large-cap with strong market position
Strong operational efficiency at 23.2%
Every $100 of equity generates 26 in profit
Growing faster than its price suggests
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Areas to Watch
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Trading at 15.0x book value
Expensive relative to growth rate
Distress zone — elevated risk
Smaller company, higher risk/reward
1.2% margin — thin
Operating margin of 4.5%
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : CTAS
The strongest argument for CTAS centers on Return on Equity, Altman Z-Score, Market Cap. Profitability is solid with margins at 17.6% and operating margin at 23.2%.
Bull Case : QUAD
The strongest argument for QUAD centers on Return on Equity, PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio. PEG of 0.84 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : CTAS
The primary concerns for CTAS are P/E Ratio, Price/Book, PEG Ratio.
Bear Case : QUAD
The primary concerns for QUAD are Altman Z-Score, Market Cap, Profit Margin. Debt-to-equity of 3.98 is elevated, increasing financial risk. Thin 1.2% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
CTAS profiles as a mature stock while QUAD is a value play — different risk/reward profiles.
QUAD carries more volatility with a beta of 1.12 — expect wider price swings.
CTAS is growing revenue faster at 8.9% — sustainability is the question.
CTAS generates stronger free cash flow (531M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
CTAS scores higher overall (58/100 vs 56/100), backed by strong 17.6% margins. 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.
Cintas Corporation
INDUSTRIALS · SPECIALTY BUSINESS SERVICES · USA
Cintas Corporation is an American corporation headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, which provides a range of products and services to businesses including uniforms, mats, mops, cleaning and restroom supplies, first aid and safety products, fire extinguishers and testing, and safety courses.
Quad Graphics Inc
INDUSTRIALS · SPECIALTY BUSINESS SERVICES · USA
Quad / Graphics, Inc. offers worldwide marketing solutions. The company is headquartered in Sussex, Wisconsin.
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