IQVIA Holdings Inc (IQV)vsWaters Corporation (WAT)
IQV
IQVIA Holdings Inc
$166.07
-0.24%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $28.18B
WAT
Waters Corporation
$298.99
-0.19%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $29.33B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
IQVIA Holdings Inc generates 415% more annual revenue ($16.31B vs $3.17B). WAT leads profitability with a 20.3% profit margin vs 8.3%. IQV appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.97. IQV earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 72/100 (B).
IQV
Strong Buy72
out of 100
Grade: B
WAT
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+49.3%
Fair Value
$349.35
Current Price
$166.07
$183.28 discount
Margin of Safety
-349.9%
Fair Value
$73.17
Current Price
$298.99
$225.82 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 21 in profit
Growing faster than its price suggests
Earnings expanding 23.6% YoY
Strong operational efficiency at 33.8%
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Every $100 of equity generates 29 in profit
Keeps 20 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Areas to Watch
Distress zone — elevated risk
Moderate valuation
Earnings declined 3.1%
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : IQV
The strongest argument for IQV centers on Return on Equity, PEG Ratio, EPS Growth. Revenue growth of 10.3% demonstrates continued momentum. PEG of 0.97 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : WAT
The strongest argument for WAT centers on Operating Margin, Altman Z-Score, Return on Equity. Profitability is solid with margins at 20.3% and operating margin at 33.8%. PEG of 1.25 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : IQV
The primary concerns for IQV are Altman Z-Score.
Bear Case : WAT
The primary concerns for WAT are P/E Ratio, EPS Growth.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
IQV profiles as a value stock while WAT is a mature play — different risk/reward profiles.
IQV carries more volatility with a beta of 1.41 — expect wider price swings.
IQV is growing revenue faster at 10.3% — sustainability is the question.
IQV generates stronger free cash flow (561M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
IQV scores higher overall (72/100 vs 60/100) and 10.3% revenue growth. Both earn "Strong 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.
IQVIA Holdings Inc
HEALTHCARE · DIAGNOSTICS & RESEARCH · USA
IQVIA, formerly Quintiles and IMS Health, Inc., is an American multinational company serving the combined industries of health information technology and clinical research. It is a provider of biopharmaceutical development and commercial outsourcing services, focused primarily on Phase I-IV clinical trials and associated laboratory and analytical services, including consulting services.
Waters Corporation
HEALTHCARE · DIAGNOSTICS & RESEARCH · USA
Waters Corporation is a publicly traded Analytical Laboratory instrument and software company headquartered in Milford, Massachusetts.
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