Caterpillar Inc (CAT)vsQuanex Building Products (NX)
CAT
Caterpillar Inc
$926.93
+2.47%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $402.92B
NX
Quanex Building Products
$20.11
+2.65%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $899.93M
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Caterpillar Inc generates 3731% more annual revenue ($70.75B vs $1.85B). CAT leads profitability with a 13.3% profit margin vs -13.0%. NX appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.66. CAT earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 67/100 (B-).
CAT
Strong Buy67
out of 100
Grade: B-
NX
Hold47
out of 100
Grade: D+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Intrinsic value data unavailable for CAT.
Margin of Safety
+77.3%
Fair Value
$98.50
Current Price
$20.11
$78.39 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Every $100 of equity generates 51 in profit
Revenue surging 22.2% year-over-year
Earnings expanding 30.2% YoY
Generating 1.5B in free cash flow
Reasonable price relative to book value
Growing faster than its price suggests
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Weak financial health signals
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Trading at 20.2x book value
2.3% revenue growth
Smaller company, higher risk/reward
Operating margin of 0.7%
ROE of -28.2% — below average capital efficiency
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : CAT
The strongest argument for CAT centers on Market Cap, Return on Equity, Revenue Growth. Revenue growth of 22.2% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bull Case : NX
The strongest argument for NX centers on Price/Book, PEG Ratio. PEG of 0.66 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : CAT
The primary concerns for CAT are PEG Ratio, Piotroski F-Score, P/E Ratio. A P/E of 43.5x leaves little room for execution misses. Debt-to-equity of 2.03 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Bear Case : NX
The primary concerns for NX are Revenue Growth, Market Cap, Operating Margin.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
CAT profiles as a growth stock while NX is a turnaround play — different risk/reward profiles.
CAT carries more volatility with a beta of 1.63 — expect wider price swings.
CAT is growing revenue faster at 22.2% — sustainability is the question.
CAT generates stronger free cash flow (1.5B), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
CAT scores higher overall (67/100 vs 47/100) and 22.2% revenue growth. NX offers better value entry with a 77.3% margin of safety. Both earn "Strong 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.
Caterpillar Inc
INDUSTRIALS · FARM & HEAVY CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY · USA
Caterpillar Inc. (often shortened to CAT) is an American Fortune 100 corporation that designs, develops, engineers, manufactures, markets, and sells machinery, engines, financial products, and insurance to customers via a worldwide dealer network.
Visit Website →Quanex Building Products
INDUSTRIALS · BUILDING PRODUCTS & EQUIPMENT · USA
Quanex Building Products Corporation (NX) is a prominent manufacturer of innovative engineered materials and components for the building and construction sector, distinguished by its dedication to quality and sustainability. The company's extensive product offerings encompass energy-efficient window and door systems, alongside advanced engineered wood products, effectively addressing the needs of both residential and commercial markets. With an emphasis on operational excellence and a strong foundation in material science, Quanex utilizes its proprietary technologies to provide exceptional value, securing a competitive position in a rapidly evolving industry landscape focused on sustainable construction practices.
Visit Website →Compare with Other FARM & HEAVY CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY Stocks
Want to dig deeper into these stocks?