WallStSmart

Core & Main Inc (CNM)vsFerguson Plc (FERG)

VS
⚡

Smart Verdict

WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison

Ferguson Plc generates 308% more annual revenue ($31.45B vs $7.70B). FERG leads profitability with a 6.3% profit margin vs 6.0%. FERG appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.33. FERG earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 59/100 (C).

CNM

Buy

59

out of 100

Grade: C

Growth: 4.7Profit: 6.0Value: 5.3Quality: 7.0
Piotroski: 6/9Altman Z: 2.42

FERG

Buy

59

out of 100

Grade: C

Growth: 4.0Profit: 7.0Value: 4.7Quality: 5.5
Piotroski: 4/9Altman Z: 1.75
IV

Intrinsic Value Comparison

Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula

CNMSignificantly Overvalued (-29.1%)

Margin of Safety

-29.1%

Fair Value

$34.19

Current Price

$48.64

$14.45 premium

UndervaluedFair: $34.19Overvalued
FERGSignificantly Overvalued (-78.3%)

Margin of Safety

-78.3%

Fair Value

$149.95

Current Price

$248.53

$98.58 premium

UndervaluedFair: $149.95Overvalued

Key Strengths & Concerns

Side-by-side fundamental analysis

Key Strengths

CNM2 strengths · Avg: 8.5/10
Return on EquityProfitability
22.1%9/10

Every $100 of equity generates 22 in profit

P/E RatioValuation
17.3x8/10

Attractively priced relative to earnings

FERG1 strengths · Avg: 10.0/10
Return on EquityProfitability
32.9%10/10

Every $100 of equity generates 33 in profit

Areas to Watch

CNM3 concerns · Avg: 3.3/10
Revenue GrowthGrowth
2.5%4/10

2.5% revenue growth

Profit MarginProfitability
6.0%3/10

6.0% margin — thin

Debt/EquityHealth
1.353/10

Elevated debt levels

FERG4 concerns · Avg: 3.5/10
Revenue GrowthGrowth
4.6%4/10

4.6% revenue growth

Altman Z-ScoreHealth
1.754/10

Distress zone — elevated risk

Profit MarginProfitability
6.3%3/10

6.3% margin — thin

Debt/EquityHealth
1.033/10

Elevated debt levels

Comparative Analysis Report

WallStSmart Research

Bull Case : CNM

The strongest argument for CNM centers on Return on Equity, P/E Ratio. PEG of 1.43 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.

Bull Case : FERG

The strongest argument for FERG centers on Return on Equity. PEG of 1.33 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.

Bear Case : CNM

The primary concerns for CNM are Revenue Growth, Profit Margin, Debt/Equity.

Bear Case : FERG

The primary concerns for FERG are Revenue Growth, Altman Z-Score, Profit Margin.

Key Dynamics to Monitor

FERG carries more volatility with a beta of 1.12 — expect wider price swings.

FERG is growing revenue faster at 4.6% — sustainability is the question.

CNM generates stronger free cash flow (44M), providing more financial flexibility.

Monitor INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTION industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.

Bottom Line

CNM scores higher overall (59/100 vs 59/100). 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.

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 →

Ferguson Plc

INDUSTRIALS · INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTION · USA

Ferguson plc distributes plumbing and heating products in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and Central Europe. The company is headquartered in Wokingham, the United Kingdom.

Want to dig deeper into these stocks?