Quest Diagnostics Incorporated (DGX)vsWaters Corporation (WAT)
DGX
Quest Diagnostics Incorporated
$189.13
-0.90%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $21.33B
WAT
Waters Corporation
$349.53
+1.98%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $30.15B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Quest Diagnostics Incorporated generates 256% more annual revenue ($11.28B vs $3.17B). WAT leads profitability with a 20.3% profit margin vs 9.1%. WAT appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.34. DGX earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 63/100 (C+).
DGX
Buy63
out of 100
Grade: C+
WAT
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-26.0%
Fair Value
$166.17
Current Price
$189.13
$22.96 premium
Intrinsic value data unavailable for WAT.
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Reasonable price relative to book value
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
Weak financial health signals
Moderate valuation
Trading at 8.1x book value
Earnings declined 3.1%
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : DGX
The strongest argument for DGX centers on Price/Book. PEG of 1.49 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
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 1.34 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : DGX
The primary concerns for DGX are Piotroski F-Score.
Bear Case : WAT
The primary concerns for WAT are P/E Ratio, Price/Book, EPS Growth.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
DGX profiles as a value stock while WAT is a mature play — different risk/reward profiles.
WAT carries more volatility with a beta of 1.20 — expect wider price swings.
DGX is growing revenue faster at 9.2% — sustainability is the question.
DGX generates stronger free cash flow (164M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
DGX scores higher overall (63/100 vs 60/100). 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.
Quest Diagnostics Incorporated
HEALTHCARE · DIAGNOSTICS & RESEARCH · USA
Quest Diagnostics is an American clinical laboratory. A Fortune 500 company, Quest operates in the United States, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and Brazil. Quest also maintains collaborative agreements with various hospitals and clinics across the globe.
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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