Generac Holdings Inc (GNRC)vsIllinois Tool Works Inc (ITW)
GNRC
Generac Holdings Inc
$205.16
-1.94%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $12.28B
ITW
Illinois Tool Works Inc
$266.45
+0.53%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $76.38B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Illinois Tool Works Inc generates 281% more annual revenue ($16.04B vs $4.21B). ITW leads profitability with a 19.1% profit margin vs 3.8%. GNRC appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.96. ITW earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 58/100 (C).
GNRC
Hold42
out of 100
Grade: D
ITW
Buy58
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-1071.0%
Fair Value
$18.36
Current Price
$205.16
$186.80 premium
Margin of Safety
-53.6%
Fair Value
$194.04
Current Price
$266.45
$72.41 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Growing faster than its price suggests
Every $100 of equity generates 94 in profit
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Large-cap with strong market position
Strong operational efficiency at 26.8%
Areas to Watch
ROE of 6.3% — below average capital efficiency
3.8% margin — thin
Weak financial health signals
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Moderate valuation
4.1% revenue growth
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : GNRC
The strongest argument for GNRC centers on PEG Ratio. PEG of 0.96 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : ITW
The strongest argument for ITW centers on Return on Equity, Altman Z-Score, Market Cap. Profitability is solid with margins at 19.1% and operating margin at 26.8%.
Bear Case : GNRC
The primary concerns for GNRC are Return on Equity, Profit Margin, Piotroski F-Score. A P/E of 77.5x leaves little room for execution misses. Thin 3.8% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Bear Case : ITW
The primary concerns for ITW are P/E Ratio, Revenue Growth, Piotroski F-Score.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
GNRC carries more volatility with a beta of 1.77 — expect wider price swings.
ITW is growing revenue faster at 4.1% — sustainability is the question.
ITW generates stronger free cash flow (858M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor SPECIALTY INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
ITW scores higher overall (58/100 vs 42/100), backed by strong 19.1% margins. Both earn "Buy" 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.
Generac Holdings Inc
INDUSTRIALS · SPECIALTY INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY · USA
Generac Holdings Inc., commonly referred to as Generac, is a Fortune 1000 American manufacturer of backup power generation products for residential, light commercial and industrial markets.
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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