WallStSmart

Hillman Solutions Corp (HLMN)vsHowmet Aerospace Inc (HWM)

VS

Smart Verdict

WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison

Howmet Aerospace Inc generates 452% more annual revenue ($8.62B vs $1.56B). HWM leads profitability with a 20.2% profit margin vs 2.3%. HLMN trades at a lower P/E of 41.4x. HWM earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 73/100 (B).

HLMN

Hold

50

out of 100

Grade: D+

Growth: 6.0Profit: 4.0Value: 4.7Quality: 6.5
Piotroski: 5/9Altman Z: 1.57

HWM

Strong Buy

73

out of 100

Grade: B

Growth: 8.7Profit: 9.0Value: 5.0Quality: 7.5
Piotroski: 6/9Altman Z: 2.61

Key Strengths & Concerns

Side-by-side fundamental analysis

Key Strengths

HLMN2 strengths · Avg: 10.0/10
Price/BookValuation
1.2x10/10

Reasonable price relative to book value

EPS GrowthGrowth
209.7%10/10

Earnings expanding 209.7% YoY

HWM6 strengths · Avg: 9.0/10
Return on EquityProfitability
31.6%10/10

Every $100 of equity generates 32 in profit

EPS GrowthGrowth
71.4%10/10

Earnings expanding 71.4% YoY

Market CapQuality
$100.31B9/10

Large-cap with strong market position

Profit MarginProfitability
20.2%9/10

Keeps 20 of every $100 in revenue as profit

PEG RatioValuation
0.808/10

Growing faster than its price suggests

Operating MarginProfitability
28.2%8/10

Strong operational efficiency at 28.2%

Areas to Watch

HLMN4 concerns · Avg: 3.5/10
Revenue GrowthGrowth
3.0%4/10

3.0% revenue growth

Altman Z-ScoreHealth
1.574/10

Distress zone — elevated risk

Market CapQuality
$1.46B3/10

Smaller company, higher risk/reward

Return on EquityProfitability
3.0%3/10

ROE of 3.0% — below average capital efficiency

HWM2 concerns · Avg: 3.0/10
Price/BookValuation
18.2x4/10

Trading at 18.2x book value

P/E RatioValuation
58.2x2/10

Premium valuation, high expectations priced in

Comparative Analysis Report

WallStSmart Research

Bull Case : HLMN

The strongest argument for HLMN centers on Price/Book, EPS Growth.

Bull Case : HWM

The strongest argument for HWM centers on Return on Equity, EPS Growth, Market Cap. Profitability is solid with margins at 20.2% and operating margin at 28.2%. Revenue growth of 19.1% demonstrates continued momentum.

Bear Case : HLMN

The primary concerns for HLMN are Revenue Growth, Altman Z-Score, Market Cap. A P/E of 41.4x leaves little room for execution misses. Thin 2.3% margins leave little buffer for downturns.

Bear Case : HWM

The primary concerns for HWM are Price/Book, P/E Ratio. A P/E of 58.2x leaves little room for execution misses.

Key Dynamics to Monitor

HLMN profiles as a value stock while HWM is a growth play — different risk/reward profiles.

HLMN carries more volatility with a beta of 1.48 — expect wider price swings.

HWM is growing revenue faster at 19.1% — sustainability is the question.

HWM generates stronger free cash flow (359M), providing more financial flexibility.

Bottom Line

HWM scores higher overall (73/100 vs 50/100), backed by strong 20.2% margins and 19.1% revenue growth. Both earn "Strong Buy" and "Hold" ratings respectively — the choice depends on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.

This analysis is generated from publicly available financial data. Not financial advice.

Hillman Solutions Corp

INDUSTRIALS · TOOLS & ACCESSORIES · USA

Hillman Solutions Corp (HLMN) is a premier provider of innovative hardware and home improvement solutions, specializing in fasteners, keys, plumbing products, and identification systems tailored for both professional and retail markets. With a robust distribution network and a commitment to leveraging advanced technology, the company enhances operational efficiency while prioritizing customer satisfaction. Hillman's focus on continuous product innovation and strategic acquisitions positions it effectively for sustained growth in a competitive landscape, especially as rising consumer demand for convenience drives industry evolution. This adaptability, coupled with a strong operational framework, equips Hillman to generate considerable shareholder value over the long term.

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Howmet Aerospace Inc

INDUSTRIALS · AEROSPACE & DEFENSE · USA

Howmet Aerospace Inc. is an American aerospace company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The company manufactures components for jet engines, fasteners and titanium structures for aerospace applications, and forged aluminum wheels for heavy trucks.

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