Cato Corporation (CATO)vsThe Gap, Inc. (GAP)
CATO
Cato Corporation
$2.77
-5.14%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $69.04M
GAP
The Gap, Inc.
$24.93
-2.20%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $9.50B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
The Gap, Inc. generates 2261% more annual revenue ($15.37B vs $650.83M). GAP leads profitability with a 5.3% profit margin vs -2.9%. CATO appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.17. GAP earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 55/100 (C).
CATO
Buy53
out of 100
Grade: C-
GAP
Buy55
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Intrinsic value data unavailable for CATO.
Margin of Safety
-89.6%
Fair Value
$14.48
Current Price
$24.93
$10.45 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Reasonable price relative to book value
Earnings expanding 63.3% YoY
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Every $100 of equity generates 23 in profit
Reasonable price relative to book value
Areas to Watch
4.7% revenue growth
Smaller company, higher risk/reward
Operating margin of 2.9%
ROE of -10.3% — below average capital efficiency
2.1% revenue growth
5.3% margin — thin
Operating margin of 4.9%
Weak financial health signals
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : CATO
The strongest argument for CATO centers on Price/Book, EPS Growth. PEG of 1.17 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : GAP
The strongest argument for GAP centers on P/E Ratio, Return on Equity, Price/Book. PEG of 1.39 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : CATO
The primary concerns for CATO are Revenue Growth, Market Cap, Operating Margin.
Bear Case : GAP
The primary concerns for GAP are Revenue Growth, Profit Margin, Operating Margin.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
CATO profiles as a turnaround stock while GAP is a value play — different risk/reward profiles.
GAP carries more volatility with a beta of 2.24 — expect wider price swings.
CATO is growing revenue faster at 4.7% — sustainability is the question.
GAP generates stronger free cash flow (696M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
GAP scores higher overall (55/100 vs 53/100). 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.
Cato Corporation
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · APPAREL RETAIL · USA
The Cato Corporation is a specialty clothing and fashion accessories retailer primarily in the southeastern United States. The company is headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina.
The Gap, Inc.
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · APPAREL RETAIL · USA
The Gap, Inc. is a leading global apparel retailer founded in 1969, recognized for its portfolio of well-known brands such as Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy, and Athleta. Headquartered in San Francisco, California, the company operates in over 40 countries and is dedicated to providing quality, value, and style to a diverse customer base. Emphasizing digital transformation and sustainability, Gap is expanding its e-commerce capabilities while focusing on innovative product development and strategic growth initiatives to maintain its competitive edge in the ever-evolving retail sector.
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