Ferguson Plc (FERG)vsMSC Industrial Direct Company Inc (MSM)
FERG
Ferguson Plc
$222.54
+0.71%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $44.19B
MSM
MSC Industrial Direct Company Inc
$120.51
+0.69%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $6.67B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Ferguson Plc generates 705% more annual revenue ($31.45B vs $3.91B). FERG leads profitability with a 6.3% profit margin vs 5.9%. FERG appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.38. MSM earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 61/100 (C+).
FERG
Buy59
out of 100
Grade: C
MSM
Buy61
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-79.2%
Fair Value
$149.16
Current Price
$222.54
$73.38 premium
Margin of Safety
+1.4%
Fair Value
$96.39
Current Price
$120.51
$24.12 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 33 in profit
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Earnings expanding 41.1% YoY
Areas to Watch
4.6% revenue growth
6.3% margin — thin
Elevated debt levels
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Expensive relative to growth rate
Moderate valuation
5.9% margin — thin
Weak financial health signals
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : FERG
The strongest argument for FERG centers on Return on Equity. PEG of 1.38 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : MSM
The strongest argument for MSM centers on Altman Z-Score, EPS Growth.
Bear Case : FERG
The primary concerns for FERG are Revenue Growth, Profit Margin, Debt/Equity.
Bear Case : MSM
The primary concerns for MSM are PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio, Profit Margin.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
FERG carries more volatility with a beta of 1.11 — expect wider price swings.
MSM is growing revenue faster at 7.8% — sustainability is the question.
MSM generates stronger free cash flow (81M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTION industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
MSM scores higher overall (61/100 vs 59/100). 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.
Ferguson Plc
INDUSTRIALS · INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTION · USA
Ferguson plc distributes plumbing and heating products in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and Central Europe. The company is headquartered in Wokingham, the United Kingdom.
MSC Industrial Direct Company Inc
INDUSTRIALS · INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTION · USA
MSC Industrial Direct Co., Inc., distributes metalworking and maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) products in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the United Kingdom. The company is headquartered in Melville, New York.
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