Gen Digital Inc. (GEN)vsPalo Alto Networks Inc (PANW)
GEN
Gen Digital Inc.
$26.28
-0.90%
TECHNOLOGY · Cap: $14.65B
PANW
Palo Alto Networks Inc
$272.05
+0.03%
TECHNOLOGY · Cap: $241.01B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Palo Alto Networks Inc generates 98% more annual revenue ($9.89B vs $5.00B). GEN leads profitability with a 19.5% profit margin vs 13.0%. GEN appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.40. GEN earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 78/100 (B+).
GEN
Strong Buy78
out of 100
Grade: B+
PANW
Buy57
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-37.0%
Fair Value
$18.01
Current Price
$26.28
$8.27 premium
Margin of Safety
+39.7%
Fair Value
$441.96
Current Price
$272.05
$169.91 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 37 in profit
Strong operational efficiency at 63.4%
Earnings expanding 265.2% YoY
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Revenue surging 27.0% year-over-year
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Earnings expanding 60.5% YoY
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
Areas to Watch
Distress zone — elevated risk
Elevated debt levels
ROE of 3.0% — below average capital efficiency
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : GEN
The strongest argument for GEN centers on Return on Equity, Operating Margin, EPS Growth. Profitability is solid with margins at 19.5% and operating margin at 63.4%. Revenue growth of 27.0% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bull Case : PANW
The strongest argument for PANW centers on Market Cap, EPS Growth, Debt/Equity. Revenue growth of 14.9% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : GEN
The primary concerns for GEN are Altman Z-Score, Debt/Equity. Debt-to-equity of 3.16 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Bear Case : PANW
The primary concerns for PANW are Return on Equity, Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio. A P/E of 256.2x leaves little room for execution misses.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
GEN profiles as a growth stock while PANW is a value play — different risk/reward profiles.
GEN carries more volatility with a beta of 1.21 — expect wider price swings.
GEN is growing revenue faster at 27.0% — sustainability is the question.
PANW generates stronger free cash flow (788M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
GEN scores higher overall (78/100 vs 57/100), backed by strong 19.5% margins and 27.0% revenue growth. PANW offers better value entry with a 39.7% margin of safety. Both earn "Strong 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.
Gen Digital Inc.
TECHNOLOGY · SOFTWARE - INFRASTRUCTURE · USA
Gen Digital Inc. provides cybersecurity solutions for consumers in the United States, Canada, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific, and Japan. The company is headquartered in Tempe, Arizona.
Palo Alto Networks Inc
TECHNOLOGY · SOFTWARE - INFRASTRUCTURE · USA
Palo Alto Networks, Inc. provides cybersecurity platform solutions globally. The company is headquartered in Santa Clara, California.
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