Cintas Corporation (CTAS)vsIllinois Tool Works Inc (ITW)
CTAS
Cintas Corporation
$179.85
-0.06%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $69.91B
ITW
Illinois Tool Works Inc
$252.72
+0.64%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $71.52B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Illinois Tool Works Inc generates 47% more annual revenue ($16.22B vs $11.03B). ITW leads profitability with a 19.3% profit margin vs 17.6%. ITW appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 2.43. ITW earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 60/100 (C).
CTAS
Buy58
out of 100
Grade: C
ITW
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-38.5%
Fair Value
$144.61
Current Price
$179.85
$35.24 premium
Intrinsic value data unavailable for ITW.
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 40 in profit
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Large-cap with strong market position
Strong operational efficiency at 23.2%
Every $100 of equity generates 97 in profit
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Large-cap with strong market position
Strong operational efficiency at 25.7%
Areas to Watch
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Trading at 15.0x book value
Expensive relative to growth rate
Expensive relative to growth rate
4.6% revenue growth
Weak financial health signals
Trading at 22.6x book value
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : CTAS
The strongest argument for CTAS centers on Return on Equity, Altman Z-Score, Market Cap. Profitability is solid with margins at 17.6% and operating margin at 23.2%.
Bull Case : ITW
The strongest argument for ITW centers on Return on Equity, Altman Z-Score, Market Cap. Profitability is solid with margins at 19.3% and operating margin at 25.7%.
Bear Case : CTAS
The primary concerns for CTAS are P/E Ratio, Price/Book, PEG Ratio.
Bear Case : ITW
The primary concerns for ITW are PEG Ratio, Revenue Growth, Piotroski F-Score. Debt-to-equity of 2.83 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
CTAS profiles as a mature stock while ITW is a value play — different risk/reward profiles.
ITW carries more volatility with a beta of 1.05 — expect wider price swings.
CTAS is growing revenue faster at 8.9% — sustainability is the question.
CTAS generates stronger free cash flow (531M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
ITW scores higher overall (60/100 vs 58/100), backed by strong 19.3% 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.
Cintas Corporation
INDUSTRIALS · SPECIALTY BUSINESS SERVICES · USA
Cintas Corporation is an American corporation headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, which provides a range of products and services to businesses including uniforms, mats, mops, cleaning and restroom supplies, first aid and safety products, fire extinguishers and testing, and safety courses.
Illinois Tool Works Inc
INDUSTRIALS · SPECIALTY INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY · USA
Illinois Tool Works Inc. or ITW is an American company that produces engineered fasteners and components, equipment and consumable systems, and specialty products.
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