Cisco Systems Inc (CSCO)vsDollar General Corporation (DG)
CSCO
Cisco Systems Inc
$81.83
+1.20%
TECHNOLOGY · Cap: $319.49B
DG
Dollar General Corporation
$119.55
+1.42%
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · Cap: $25.96B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Cisco Systems Inc generates 38% more annual revenue ($59.05B vs $42.72B). CSCO leads profitability with a 18.8% profit margin vs 3.5%. CSCO appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.32. CSCO earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 70/100 (B-).
CSCO
Strong Buy70
out of 100
Grade: B-
DG
Buy65
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+37.1%
Fair Value
$130.10
Current Price
$81.83
$48.27 discount
Margin of Safety
+54.1%
Fair Value
$320.58
Current Price
$119.55
$201.03 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Every $100 of equity generates 24 in profit
Strong operational efficiency at 24.9%
Earnings expanding 31.2% YoY
Generating 1.5B in free cash flow
Earnings expanding 121.9% YoY
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Generating 1.3B in free cash flow
Areas to Watch
Moderate valuation
Distress zone — elevated risk
3.5% margin — thin
Elevated debt levels
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : CSCO
The strongest argument for CSCO centers on Market Cap, Return on Equity, Operating Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 18.8% and operating margin at 24.9%. PEG of 1.32 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : DG
The strongest argument for DG centers on EPS Growth, P/E Ratio, Free Cash Flow. PEG of 1.44 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : CSCO
The primary concerns for CSCO are P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score.
Bear Case : DG
The primary concerns for DG are Profit Margin, Debt/Equity. Debt-to-equity of 2.02 is elevated, increasing financial risk. Thin 3.5% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
CSCO profiles as a mature stock while DG is a value play — different risk/reward profiles.
CSCO carries more volatility with a beta of 0.83 — expect wider price swings.
CSCO is growing revenue faster at 9.7% — sustainability is the question.
CSCO generates stronger free cash flow (1.5B), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
CSCO scores higher overall (70/100 vs 65/100), backed by strong 18.8% margins. DG offers better value entry with a 54.1% margin of safety. Both earn "Strong 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.
Cisco Systems Inc
TECHNOLOGY · COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT · USA
Cisco Systems, Inc. is an American multinational technology conglomerate headquartered in San Jose, California, in the center of Silicon Valley. Cisco develops, manufactures and sells networking hardware, software, telecommunications equipment and other high-technology services and products. Through its numerous acquired subsidiaries, such as OpenDNS, Webex, Jabber and Jasper, Cisco specializes in specific tech markets, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), domain security and energy management. On January 25, 2021, Cisco reincorporated in Delaware.
Visit Website →Dollar General Corporation
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · DISCOUNT STORES · USA
Dollar General Corporation is an American chain of variety stores headquartered in Goodlettsville, Tennessee.
Visit Website →Compare with Other COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT Stocks
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