Akamai Technologies Inc (AKAM)vsPalo Alto Networks Inc (PANW)
AKAM
Akamai Technologies Inc
$106.79
-0.32%
TECHNOLOGY · Cap: $15.18B
PANW
Palo Alto Networks Inc
$330.65
-2.32%
TECHNOLOGY · Cap: $270.47B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Palo Alto Networks Inc generates 166% more annual revenue ($11.48B vs $4.32B). AKAM leads profitability with a 9.5% profit margin vs 2.7%. AKAM appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.07. PANW earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 51/100 (C-).
AKAM
Hold48
out of 100
Grade: D+
PANW
Buy51
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+27.2%
Fair Value
$152.06
Current Price
$106.79
$45.27 discount
Margin of Safety
+34.1%
Fair Value
$501.81
Current Price
$330.65
$171.16 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
No standout strengths identified
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Revenue surging 34.4% year-over-year
Earnings expanding 60.5% YoY
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
Areas to Watch
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Distress zone — elevated risk
Elevated debt levels
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Trading at 9.8x book value
ROE of 1.1% — below average capital efficiency
2.7% margin — thin
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : AKAM
PEG of 1.07 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : PANW
The strongest argument for PANW centers on Market Cap, Revenue Growth, EPS Growth. Revenue growth of 34.4% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : AKAM
The primary concerns for AKAM are P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score, Debt/Equity. Debt-to-equity of 1.97 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Bear Case : PANW
The primary concerns for PANW are PEG Ratio, Price/Book, Return on Equity. A P/E of 295.2x leaves little room for execution misses. Thin 2.7% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AKAM profiles as a value stock while PANW is a hypergrowth play — different risk/reward profiles.
PANW carries more volatility with a beta of 0.91 — expect wider price swings.
PANW is growing revenue faster at 34.4% — sustainability is the question.
PANW generates stronger free cash flow (788M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
PANW scores higher overall (51/100 vs 48/100) and 34.4% revenue growth. AKAM offers better value entry with a 27.2% margin of safety. Both earn "Buy" and "Hold" ratings respectively — the choice depends on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.
This analysis is generated from publicly available financial data. Not financial advice.
Akamai Technologies Inc
TECHNOLOGY · SOFTWARE - INFRASTRUCTURE · USA
Akamai Technologies, Inc. is a global content delivery network (CDN), cybersecurity, and cloud service company, providing web and Internet security services.
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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