Core & Main Inc (CNM)vsFastenal Company (FAST)
CNM
Core & Main Inc
$45.47
-2.24%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $8.51B
FAST
Fastenal Company
$50.80
+1.62%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $57.36B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Fastenal Company generates 14% more annual revenue ($8.75B vs $7.65B). FAST leads profitability with a 15.4% profit margin vs 5.9%. CNM appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.26. FAST earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 62/100 (C+).
CNM
Buy55
out of 100
Grade: C-
FAST
Buy62
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-30.6%
Fair Value
$33.66
Current Price
$45.47
$11.81 premium
Margin of Safety
+52.9%
Fair Value
$106.15
Current Price
$50.80
$55.35 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 22 in profit
Every $100 of equity generates 33 in profit
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Large-cap with strong market position
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
Strong operational efficiency at 21.0%
Areas to Watch
5.9% margin — thin
Elevated debt levels
Revenue declined 0.1%
Trading at 14.3x book value
Expensive relative to growth rate
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : CNM
The strongest argument for CNM centers on Return on Equity. PEG of 1.26 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : FAST
The strongest argument for FAST centers on Return on Equity, Altman Z-Score, Market Cap. Profitability is solid with margins at 15.4% and operating margin at 21.0%. Revenue growth of 14.7% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : CNM
The primary concerns for CNM are Profit Margin, Debt/Equity, Revenue Growth.
Bear Case : FAST
The primary concerns for FAST are Price/Book, PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio. A P/E of 42.7x leaves little room for execution misses.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
CNM profiles as a value stock while FAST is a mature play — different risk/reward profiles.
CNM carries more volatility with a beta of 0.91 — expect wider price swings.
FAST is growing revenue faster at 14.7% — sustainability is the question.
FAST generates stronger free cash flow (78M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
FAST scores higher overall (62/100 vs 55/100), backed by strong 15.4% margins and 14.7% revenue growth. 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.
Core & Main Inc
INDUSTRIALS · INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTION · USA
Core & Main Inc. (CNM) is a leading distributor of waterworks and plumbing products across the United States, serving a diverse client base that includes municipalities, contractors, and industrial entities. The company emphasizes innovative and sustainable solutions for water management, wastewater treatment, and stormwater infrastructure, positioning itself to address the growing need for infrastructure modernization in line with strict environmental standards. With a strong supply chain and deep industry knowledge, Core & Main is well-equipped to tackle critical challenges in the utilities sector, reinforcing its status as a key player in promoting effective water management practices.
Visit Website →Fastenal Company
INDUSTRIALS · INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTION · USA
Fastenal Company is an American company based in Winona, Minnesota. Fastenal's service model centers on approximately 3,200 in-market locations, each providing custom inventory, and a dedicated sales team to support local businesses. Fastenal offers companies supply chain solutions that help business reduce inventory touches, and supply chain waste.
Visit Website →Compare with Other INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTION Stocks
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