Palo Alto Networks Inc (PANW)vsPlexus Corp (PLXS)
PANW
Palo Alto Networks Inc
$272.05
+1.76%
TECHNOLOGY · Cap: $241.01B
PLXS
Plexus Corp
$273.01
-3.99%
TECHNOLOGY · Cap: $7.89B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Palo Alto Networks Inc generates 130% more annual revenue ($9.89B vs $4.31B). 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 57/100 (C).
PANW
Buy57
out of 100
Grade: C
PLXS
Buy52
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+39.7%
Fair Value
$441.96
Current Price
$272.05
$169.91 discount
Intrinsic value data unavailable for PLXS.
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Earnings expanding 60.5% YoY
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
18.7% revenue growth
Earnings expanding 29.1% YoY
Areas to Watch
ROE of 3.0% — below average capital efficiency
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Expensive relative to growth rate
4.3% margin — thin
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : PANW
The strongest argument for PANW centers on Market Cap, EPS Growth, Debt/Equity. Revenue growth of 14.9% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bull Case : PLXS
The strongest argument for PLXS centers on Altman Z-Score, Debt/Equity, Revenue Growth. Revenue growth of 18.7% demonstrates continued momentum.
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.
Bear Case : PLXS
The primary concerns for PLXS are PEG Ratio, Profit Margin, P/E Ratio. A P/E of 43.1x leaves little room for execution misses. Thin 4.3% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
PANW profiles as a value stock while PLXS is a growth play — different risk/reward profiles.
PLXS carries more volatility with a beta of 0.90 — expect wider price swings.
PLXS is growing revenue faster at 18.7% — sustainability is the question.
PANW generates stronger free cash flow (788M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
PANW scores higher overall (57/100 vs 52/100) and 14.9% 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.
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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