Palo Alto Networks Inc (PANW)vsPlexus Corp (PLXS)
PANW
Palo Alto Networks Inc
$179.32
-1.22%
TECHNOLOGY · Cap: $145.43B
PLXS
Plexus Corp
$250.58
-0.01%
TECHNOLOGY · Cap: $6.71B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Palo Alto Networks Inc generates 140% more annual revenue ($9.89B vs $4.13B). PANW leads profitability with a 13.0% profit margin vs 4.3%. PLXS appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 2.09. PANW earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 56/100 (C).
PANW
Buy56
out of 100
Grade: C
PLXS
Buy51
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+60.8%
Fair Value
$457.02
Current Price
$179.32
$277.70 discount
Margin of Safety
+71.3%
Fair Value
$713.29
Current Price
$250.58
$462.71 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Earnings expanding 60.5% YoY
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
Large-cap with strong market position
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
Areas to Watch
Trading at 13.4x book value
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Expensive relative to growth rate
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
4.3% margin — thin
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : PANW
The strongest argument for PANW centers on EPS Growth, Debt/Equity, Market Cap. Revenue growth of 14.9% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bull Case : PLXS
The strongest argument for PLXS centers on Altman Z-Score, Debt/Equity.
Bear Case : PANW
The primary concerns for PANW are Price/Book, Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio. A P/E of 100.2x leaves little room for execution misses.
Bear Case : PLXS
The primary concerns for PLXS are PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio, Profit Margin. Thin 4.3% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
PANW carries more volatility with a beta of 0.77 — expect wider price swings.
PANW is growing revenue faster at 14.9% — sustainability is the question.
PANW generates stronger free cash flow (470M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor SOFTWARE - INFRASTRUCTURE industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
PANW scores higher overall (56/100 vs 51/100) and 14.9% revenue growth. PLXS offers better value entry with a 71.3% 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.
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.
Plexus Corp
TECHNOLOGY · ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS · USA
Plexus Corp. The company is headquartered in Neenah, Wisconsin.
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