Estee Lauder Companies Inc (EL)vsTarget Corporation (TGT)
EL
Estee Lauder Companies Inc
$73.11
+2.28%
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · Cap: $26.45B
TGT
Target Corporation
$116.37
+0.39%
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · Cap: $52.70B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Target Corporation generates 614% more annual revenue ($104.78B vs $14.67B). TGT leads profitability with a 3.5% profit margin vs -1.2%. EL appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.77. TGT earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 46/100 (D+).
EL
Hold41
out of 100
Grade: D
TGT
Hold46
out of 100
Grade: D+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Intrinsic value data unavailable for EL.
Margin of Safety
-107.3%
Fair Value
$55.28
Current Price
$116.37
$61.09 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Generating 1.0B in free cash flow
Large-cap with strong market position
Every $100 of equity generates 24 in profit
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Generating 2.3B in free cash flow
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Distress zone — elevated risk
Weak financial health signals
ROE of -4.3% — below average capital efficiency
3.5% margin — thin
Operating margin of 4.9%
Expensive relative to growth rate
Revenue declined 1.5%
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : EL
The strongest argument for EL centers on Free Cash Flow.
Bull Case : TGT
The strongest argument for TGT centers on Market Cap, Return on Equity, P/E Ratio.
Bear Case : EL
The primary concerns for EL are PEG Ratio, Altman Z-Score, Piotroski F-Score. Debt-to-equity of 2.74 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Bear Case : TGT
The primary concerns for TGT are Profit Margin, Operating Margin, PEG Ratio. Thin 3.5% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
EL profiles as a turnaround stock while TGT is a value play — different risk/reward profiles.
EL carries more volatility with a beta of 1.11 — expect wider price swings.
EL is growing revenue faster at 5.6% — sustainability is the question.
TGT generates stronger free cash flow (2.3B), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
TGT scores higher overall (46/100 vs 41/100). Both earn "Hold" and "Hold" ratings respectively — the choice depends on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.
This analysis is generated from publicly available financial data. Not financial advice.
Estee Lauder Companies Inc
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · HOUSEHOLD & PERSONAL PRODUCTS · USA
The Estee Lauder Companies Inc. is an American multinational manufacturer and marketer of prestige skincare, makeup, fragrance and hair care products, based in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. The company owns a diverse portfolio of brands, distributed internationally through both digital commerce and retail channels.
Visit Website →Target Corporation
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · DISCOUNT STORES · USA
Target Corporation is an American retail corporation. Their retail formats include the discount store Target, the hypermarket SuperTarget, and small-format stores previously named CityTarget and TargetExpress before being consolidated under the Target branding.
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