CSX Corporation (CSX)vsWaters Corporation (WAT)
CSX
CSX Corporation
$39.57
+1.80%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $73.58B
WAT
Waters Corporation
$302.32
+0.13%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $29.66B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
CSX Corporation generates 345% more annual revenue ($14.09B vs $3.17B). CSX leads profitability with a 20.5% profit margin vs 20.3%. WAT appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.25. WAT earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 60/100 (C).
CSX
Buy53
out of 100
Grade: C-
WAT
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-294.8%
Fair Value
$10.47
Current Price
$39.57
$29.10 premium
Margin of Safety
-349.9%
Fair Value
$73.17
Current Price
$302.32
$229.15 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Strong operational efficiency at 32.7%
Large-cap with strong market position
Every $100 of equity generates 23 in profit
Keeps 21 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Strong operational efficiency at 33.8%
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Every $100 of equity generates 29 in profit
Keeps 20 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Areas to Watch
Moderate valuation
Elevated debt levels
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Moderate valuation
Earnings declined 3.1%
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 20.5% and operating margin at 32.7%.
Bull Case : WAT
The strongest argument for WAT centers on Operating Margin, Altman Z-Score, Return on Equity. Profitability is solid with margins at 20.3% and operating margin at 33.8%. PEG of 1.25 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : CSX
The primary concerns for CSX are P/E Ratio, Debt/Equity, Piotroski F-Score.
Bear Case : WAT
The primary concerns for WAT are P/E Ratio, EPS Growth.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
CSX profiles as a declining stock while WAT is a mature play — different risk/reward profiles.
CSX carries more volatility with a beta of 1.26 — expect wider price swings.
WAT is growing revenue faster at 6.8% — sustainability is the question.
CSX generates stronger free cash flow (709M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
WAT scores higher overall (60/100 vs 53/100), backed by strong 20.3% margins. 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.
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 →Waters Corporation
HEALTHCARE · DIAGNOSTICS & RESEARCH · USA
Waters Corporation is a publicly traded Analytical Laboratory instrument and software company headquartered in Milford, Massachusetts.
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