MKS Instruments Inc (MKSI)vsPalo Alto Networks Inc (PANW)
MKSI
MKS Instruments Inc
$301.65
-8.65%
TECHNOLOGY · Cap: $24.02B
PANW
Palo Alto Networks Inc
$272.05
+1.76%
TECHNOLOGY · Cap: $241.01B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Palo Alto Networks Inc generates 143% more annual revenue ($9.89B vs $4.07B). PANW leads profitability with a 13.0% profit margin vs 8.0%. MKSI appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.32. MKSI earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 61/100 (C+).
MKSI
Buy61
out of 100
Grade: C+
PANW
Buy57
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-75.4%
Fair Value
$147.68
Current Price
$301.65
$153.97 premium
Margin of Safety
+39.7%
Fair Value
$441.96
Current Price
$272.05
$169.91 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Earnings expanding 53.2% YoY
15.2% revenue growth
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Earnings expanding 60.5% YoY
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
Areas to Watch
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Distress zone — elevated risk
ROE of 3.0% — below average capital efficiency
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : MKSI
The strongest argument for MKSI centers on EPS Growth, Revenue Growth. Revenue growth of 15.2% demonstrates continued momentum. PEG of 1.32 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : PANW
The strongest argument for PANW centers on Market Cap, EPS Growth, Debt/Equity. Revenue growth of 14.9% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : MKSI
The primary concerns for MKSI are P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score. A P/E of 74.6x leaves little room for execution misses.
Bear Case : PANW
The primary concerns for PANW are Return on Equity, Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio. A P/E of 256.2x leaves little room for execution misses.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
MKSI profiles as a growth stock while PANW is a value play — different risk/reward profiles.
MKSI carries more volatility with a beta of 2.00 — expect wider price swings.
MKSI is growing revenue faster at 15.2% — sustainability is the question.
PANW generates stronger free cash flow (788M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
MKSI scores higher overall (61/100 vs 57/100) and 15.2% revenue growth. PANW offers better value entry with a 39.7% 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.
MKS Instruments Inc
TECHNOLOGY · SCIENTIFIC & TECHNICAL INSTRUMENTS · USA
MKS Instruments, Inc. provides instruments, systems, subsystems, and process control solutions that measure, monitor, deliver, analyze, power, and control critical parameters of manufacturing processes globally. The company is headquartered in Andover, Massachusetts.
Visit Website →Palo Alto Networks Inc
TECHNOLOGY · SOFTWARE - INFRASTRUCTURE · USA
Palo Alto Networks, Inc. provides cybersecurity platform solutions globally. The company is headquartered in Santa Clara, California.
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