CSX Corporation (CSX)vsLB Foster Company (FSTR)
CSX
CSX Corporation
$48.95
-0.18%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $90.68B
FSTR
LB Foster Company
$37.59
+0.53%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $387.97M
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
CSX Corporation generates 2499% more annual revenue ($14.51B vs $558.35M). CSX leads profitability with a 22.2% profit margin vs 2.0%. FSTR appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.80. CSX earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 71/100 (B).
CSX
Strong Buy71
out of 100
Grade: B
FSTR
Buy52
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+32.0%
Fair Value
$71.94
Current Price
$48.95
$22.99 discount
Margin of Safety
-16.0%
Fair Value
$27.20
Current Price
$37.59
$10.39 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Strong operational efficiency at 38.4%
Large-cap with strong market position
Every $100 of equity generates 23 in profit
Keeps 22 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Earnings expanding 22.7% YoY
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Growing faster than its price suggests
Reasonable price relative to book value
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Moderate valuation
Elevated debt levels
Weak financial health signals
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Smaller company, higher risk/reward
ROE of 6.4% — below average capital efficiency
2.0% margin — thin
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : CSX
The strongest argument for CSX centers on Operating Margin, Market Cap, Return on Equity. Profitability is solid with margins at 22.2% and operating margin at 38.4%. Revenue growth of 10.1% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bull Case : FSTR
The strongest argument for FSTR centers on Altman Z-Score, PEG Ratio, Price/Book. PEG of 0.80 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : CSX
The primary concerns for CSX are PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio, Debt/Equity.
Bear Case : FSTR
The primary concerns for FSTR are P/E Ratio, Market Cap, Return on Equity. Thin 2.0% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
CSX profiles as a mature stock while FSTR is a value play — different risk/reward profiles.
CSX carries more volatility with a beta of 1.21 — expect wider price swings.
CSX is growing revenue faster at 10.1% — sustainability is the question.
CSX generates stronger free cash flow (751M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
CSX scores higher overall (71/100 vs 52/100), backed by strong 22.2% margins and 10.1% revenue growth. 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.
CSX Corporation
INDUSTRIALS · RAILROADS · USA
CSX Corporation is an American holding company focused on rail transportation and real estate in North America, among other industries. Based in Richmond, Virginia, USA after the merger, in 2003 the CSX Corporation headquarters moved to Jacksonville, Florida.
Visit Website →LB Foster Company
INDUSTRIALS · RAILROADS · USA
LB Foster Company provides products and services for the rail industry and solutions to support critical infrastructure projects globally. The company is headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Visit Website →Compare with Other RAILROADS Stocks
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