Cisco Systems Inc (CSCO)vsNorthrop Grumman Corporation (NOC)
CSCO
Cisco Systems Inc
$96.57
+4.79%
TECHNOLOGY · Cap: $364.02B
NOC
Northrop Grumman Corporation
$549.52
-0.50%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $78.44B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Cisco Systems Inc generates 39% more annual revenue ($59.05B vs $42.37B). CSCO leads profitability with a 18.8% profit margin vs 10.8%. CSCO appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.46. CSCO earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 70/100 (B-).
CSCO
Strong Buy70
out of 100
Grade: B-
NOC
Buy63
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-63.6%
Fair Value
$56.34
Current Price
$96.57
$40.23 premium
Margin of Safety
-60.9%
Fair Value
$421.87
Current Price
$549.52
$127.65 premium
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 84.9% YoY
Large-cap with strong market position
Every $100 of equity generates 29 in profit
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Areas to Watch
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Distress zone — elevated risk
4.4% revenue growth
Grey zone — moderate risk
Elevated debt levels
Weak financial health signals
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 1.46 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : NOC
The strongest argument for NOC centers on EPS Growth, Market Cap, Return on Equity.
Bear Case : CSCO
The primary concerns for CSCO are P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score.
Bear Case : NOC
The primary concerns for NOC are Revenue Growth, Altman Z-Score, Debt/Equity.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
CSCO profiles as a mature stock while NOC is a value play — different risk/reward profiles.
CSCO carries more volatility with a beta of 0.91 — 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 63/100), backed by strong 18.8% margins. 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 →Northrop Grumman Corporation
INDUSTRIALS · AEROSPACE & DEFENSE · USA
Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) is an American multinational aerospace and defense technology company.
Visit Website →Compare with Other COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT Stocks
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