WallStSmart

Air Products and Chemicals Inc (APD)vsWestlake Chemical Corporation (WLK)

VS

Smart Verdict

WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison

Air Products and Chemicals Inc generates 9% more annual revenue ($12.21B vs $11.17B). APD leads profitability with a -2.7% profit margin vs -13.5%. WLK appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.70. APD earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 42/100 (D).

APD

Hold

42

out of 100

Grade: D

Growth: 4.7Profit: 3.5Value: 4.0Quality: 5.0
Piotroski: 1/9Altman Z: 1.36

WLK

Hold

37

out of 100

Grade: F

Growth: 2.0Profit: 2.0Value: 6.7Quality: 6.5
Piotroski: 3/9Altman Z: 1.93

Key Strengths & Concerns

Side-by-side fundamental analysis

Key Strengths

APD2 strengths · Avg: 8.5/10
Market CapQuality
$64.59B9/10

Large-cap with strong market position

Operating MarginProfitability
24.3%8/10

Strong operational efficiency at 24.3%

WLK1 strengths · Avg: 8.0/10
Price/BookValuation
1.7x8/10

Reasonable price relative to book value

Areas to Watch

APD4 concerns · Avg: 2.5/10
Debt/EquityHealth
1.183/10

Elevated debt levels

Piotroski F-ScoreQuality
1/93/10

Weak financial health signals

PEG RatioValuation
6.412/10

Expensive relative to growth rate

Return on EquityProfitability
-1.7%2/10

ROE of -1.7% — below average capital efficiency

WLK4 concerns · Avg: 3.3/10
PEG RatioValuation
1.704/10

Expensive relative to growth rate

Altman Z-ScoreHealth
1.934/10

Grey zone — moderate risk

Piotroski F-ScoreQuality
3/93/10

Weak financial health signals

Return on EquityProfitability
-14.5%2/10

ROE of -14.5% — below average capital efficiency

Comparative Analysis Report

WallStSmart Research

Bull Case : APD

The strongest argument for APD centers on Market Cap, Operating Margin.

Bull Case : WLK

The strongest argument for WLK centers on Price/Book.

Bear Case : APD

The primary concerns for APD are Debt/Equity, Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio.

Bear Case : WLK

The primary concerns for WLK are PEG Ratio, Altman Z-Score, Piotroski F-Score.

Key Dynamics to Monitor

APD carries more volatility with a beta of 0.86 — expect wider price swings.

APD is growing revenue faster at 5.8% — sustainability is the question.

WLK generates stronger free cash flow (-16M), providing more financial flexibility.

Monitor SPECIALTY CHEMICALS industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.

Bottom Line

APD scores higher overall (42/100 vs 37/100). Both earn "Hold" 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.

Air Products and Chemicals Inc

BASIC MATERIALS · SPECIALTY CHEMICALS · USA

Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. is an American international corporation whose principal business is selling gases and chemicals for industrial uses. Air Products' headquarters is in Allentown, Pennsylvania.

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Westlake Chemical Corporation

BASIC MATERIALS · SPECIALTY CHEMICALS · USA

Westlake Chemical Corporation (WLK) is a leading global manufacturer and supplier of petrochemicals, polymers, and fabricated products, serving critical sectors such as construction, automotive, and packaging. With its operations divided into the Olefins and Vinyls segments, Westlake is poised to capitalize on global economic trends and increasing product demand. The company is committed to sustainability and innovation, investing in advanced technologies to optimize operational efficiency and minimize environmental impact. With a strong manufacturing footprint in North America and Europe and a disciplined financial management strategy, Westlake is strategically positioned for long-term growth and enhanced shareholder value.

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