Ferguson Plc (FERG)vsWW Grainger Inc (GWW)
FERG
Ferguson Plc
$221.17
+2.33%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $41.45B
GWW
WW Grainger Inc
$1,268.62
-0.72%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $60.29B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Ferguson Plc generates 67% more annual revenue ($31.45B vs $18.84B). GWW leads profitability with a 9.9% profit margin vs 6.3%. FERG appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.33. GWW earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 64/100 (C+).
FERG
Buy59
out of 100
Grade: C
GWW
Buy64
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-79.0%
Fair Value
$149.39
Current Price
$221.17
$71.78 premium
Intrinsic value data unavailable for GWW.
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 33 in profit
Every $100 of equity generates 45 in profit
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Large-cap with strong market position
Earnings expanding 20.5% YoY
Areas to Watch
4.6% revenue growth
6.3% margin — thin
Elevated debt levels
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Expensive relative to growth rate
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Trading at 14.5x book value
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : FERG
The strongest argument for FERG centers on Return on Equity. PEG of 1.33 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : GWW
The strongest argument for GWW centers on Return on Equity, Altman Z-Score, Market Cap. Revenue growth of 10.3% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : FERG
The primary concerns for FERG are Revenue Growth, Profit Margin, Debt/Equity.
Bear Case : GWW
The primary concerns for GWW are PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio, Price/Book.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
FERG carries more volatility with a beta of 1.11 — expect wider price swings.
GWW is growing revenue faster at 10.3% — sustainability is the question.
GWW generates stronger free cash flow (333M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTION industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
GWW scores higher overall (64/100 vs 59/100) and 10.3% 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.
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.
WW Grainger Inc
INDUSTRIALS · INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTION · USA
W. W. Grainger, Inc. is an American Fortune 500 industrial supply company founded in 1927 in Chicago by William W. (Bill) Grainger.
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