Fastenal Company (FAST)vsGE Aerospace (GE)
FAST
Fastenal Company
$52.55
+2.14%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $58.55B
GE
GE Aerospace
$313.05
+3.96%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $325.62B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
GE Aerospace generates 458% more annual revenue ($50.64B vs $9.08B). GE leads profitability with a 17.7% profit margin vs 15.6%. FAST appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 3.39. GE earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 65/100 (C+).
FAST
Buy64
out of 100
Grade: C+
GE
Buy65
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+51.9%
Fair Value
$107.83
Current Price
$52.55
$55.28 discount
Intrinsic value data unavailable for GE.
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 34 in profit
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Large-cap with strong market position
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
Strong operational efficiency at 21.5%
15.5% revenue growth
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Every $100 of equity generates 52 in profit
Strong operational efficiency at 20.6%
Revenue surging 21.1% year-over-year
Generating 1.8B in free cash flow
Areas to Watch
Trading at 14.5x book value
Expensive relative to growth rate
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Trading at 18.4x book value
Distress zone — elevated risk
Elevated debt levels
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 15.6% and operating margin at 21.5%. Revenue growth of 15.5% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bull Case : GE
The strongest argument for GE centers on Market Cap, Return on Equity, Operating Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 17.7% and operating margin at 20.6%. Revenue growth of 21.1% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : FAST
The primary concerns for FAST are Price/Book, PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio. A P/E of 41.5x leaves little room for execution misses.
Bear Case : GE
The primary concerns for GE are P/E Ratio, Price/Book, Altman Z-Score.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
GE carries more volatility with a beta of 1.37 — expect wider price swings.
GE is growing revenue faster at 21.1% — sustainability is the question.
GE generates stronger free cash flow (1.8B), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTION industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
GE scores higher overall (65/100 vs 64/100), backed by strong 17.7% margins and 21.1% revenue growth. FAST offers better value entry with a 51.9% margin of safety. 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 →GE Aerospace
INDUSTRIALS · AEROSPACE & DEFENSE · USA
General Electric Company (GE) is an American multinational conglomerate incorporated in New York City and headquartered in Boston. As of 2018, the company operates through the following segments: aviation, healthcare, power, renewable energy, digital industry, additive manufacturing and venture capital and finance.
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