Palo Alto Networks Inc (PANW)vsQualys Inc (QLYS)
PANW
Palo Alto Networks Inc
$272.05
+1.76%
TECHNOLOGY · Cap: $241.01B
QLYS
Qualys Inc
$109.90
-1.46%
TECHNOLOGY · Cap: $3.92B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Palo Alto Networks Inc generates 1345% more annual revenue ($9.89B vs $684.86M). QLYS leads profitability with a 29.4% profit margin vs 13.0%. QLYS appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 4.37. QLYS earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 62/100 (C+).
PANW
Buy57
out of 100
Grade: C
QLYS
Buy62
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 QLYS.
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
Every $100 of equity generates 35 in profit
Strong operational efficiency at 35.0%
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
Keeps 29 of every $100 in revenue as profit
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
Grey zone — moderate risk
Expensive relative to growth rate
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 : QLYS
The strongest argument for QLYS centers on Return on Equity, Operating Margin, Debt/Equity. Profitability is solid with margins at 29.4% and operating margin at 35.0%.
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 : QLYS
The primary concerns for QLYS are Altman Z-Score, PEG Ratio.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
PANW profiles as a value stock while QLYS is a mature play — different risk/reward profiles.
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 (788M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
QLYS scores higher overall (62/100 vs 57/100), backed by strong 29.4% margins. 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.
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.
Qualys Inc
TECHNOLOGY · SOFTWARE - INFRASTRUCTURE · USA
Qualys, Inc. provides cloud-based information technology (IT), security, and compliance solutions in the United States and internationally. The company is headquartered in Foster City, California.
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