Fastenal Company (FAST)vsFerguson Plc (FERG)
FAST
Fastenal Company
$49.32
+0.63%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $56.59B
FERG
Ferguson Plc
$222.54
+0.71%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $44.19B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Ferguson Plc generates 259% more annual revenue ($31.45B vs $8.75B). FAST leads profitability with a 15.4% profit margin vs 6.3%. FERG appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.38. FAST earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 62/100 (C+).
FAST
Buy62
out of 100
Grade: C+
FERG
Buy59
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+53.1%
Fair Value
$105.17
Current Price
$49.32
$55.85 discount
Margin of Safety
-79.2%
Fair Value
$149.16
Current Price
$222.54
$73.38 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 33 in profit
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Large-cap with strong market position
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
Strong operational efficiency at 21.0%
Every $100 of equity generates 33 in profit
Areas to Watch
Trading at 13.9x book value
Expensive relative to growth rate
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
4.6% revenue growth
6.3% margin — thin
Elevated debt levels
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : FAST
The strongest argument for FAST centers on Return on Equity, Altman Z-Score, Market Cap. Profitability is solid with margins at 15.4% and operating margin at 21.0%. Revenue growth of 14.7% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bull Case : FERG
The strongest argument for FERG centers on Return on Equity. PEG of 1.38 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : FAST
The primary concerns for FAST are Price/Book, PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio. A P/E of 42.1x leaves little room for execution misses.
Bear Case : FERG
The primary concerns for FERG are Revenue Growth, Profit Margin, Debt/Equity.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
FAST profiles as a mature stock while FERG is a value play — different risk/reward profiles.
FERG carries more volatility with a beta of 1.11 — expect wider price swings.
FAST is growing revenue faster at 14.7% — sustainability is the question.
FAST generates stronger free cash flow (78M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
FAST scores higher overall (62/100 vs 59/100), backed by strong 15.4% margins and 14.7% 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.
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 →Ferguson Plc
INDUSTRIALS · INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTION · USA
Ferguson plc distributes plumbing and heating products in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and Central Europe. The company is headquartered in Wokingham, the United Kingdom.
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