WallStSmart

Howmet Aerospace Inc (HWM)vsQuanex Building Products (NX)

VS

Smart Verdict

WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison

Howmet Aerospace Inc generates 347% more annual revenue ($8.25B vs $1.85B). HWM leads profitability with a 18.3% profit margin vs -13.0%. NX appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.66. HWM earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 69/100 (B-).

HWM

Strong Buy

69

out of 100

Grade: B-

Growth: 7.3Profit: 9.0Value: 5.0Quality: 5.0

NX

Hold

47

out of 100

Grade: D+

Growth: 4.7Profit: 3.5Value: 7.7Quality: 5.0
IV

Intrinsic Value Comparison

Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula

Intrinsic value data unavailable for HWM.

NXUndervalued (+77.3%)

Margin of Safety

+77.3%

Fair Value

$98.50

Current Price

$20.11

$78.39 discount

UndervaluedFair: $98.50Overvalued

Key Strengths & Concerns

Side-by-side fundamental analysis

Key Strengths

HWM5 strengths · Avg: 8.6/10
Return on EquityProfitability
30.4%10/10

Every $100 of equity generates 30 in profit

Market CapQuality
$96.03B9/10

Large-cap with strong market position

PEG RatioValuation
0.808/10

Growing faster than its price suggests

Operating MarginProfitability
26.3%8/10

Strong operational efficiency at 26.3%

EPS GrowthGrowth
20.3%8/10

Earnings expanding 20.3% YoY

NX2 strengths · Avg: 9.0/10
Price/BookValuation
1.3x10/10

Reasonable price relative to book value

PEG RatioValuation
0.668/10

Growing faster than its price suggests

Areas to Watch

HWM2 concerns · Avg: 3.0/10
Price/BookValuation
18.2x4/10

Trading at 18.2x book value

P/E RatioValuation
64.6x2/10

Premium valuation, high expectations priced in

NX4 concerns · Avg: 3.0/10
Revenue GrowthGrowth
2.3%4/10

2.3% revenue growth

Market CapQuality
$899.93M3/10

Smaller company, higher risk/reward

Operating MarginProfitability
0.7%3/10

Operating margin of 0.7%

Return on EquityProfitability
-28.2%2/10

ROE of -28.2% — below average capital efficiency

Comparative Analysis Report

WallStSmart Research

Bull Case : HWM

The strongest argument for HWM centers on Return on Equity, Market Cap, PEG Ratio. Profitability is solid with margins at 18.3% and operating margin at 26.3%. Revenue growth of 14.6% demonstrates continued momentum.

Bull Case : NX

The strongest argument for NX centers on Price/Book, PEG Ratio. PEG of 0.66 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.

Bear Case : HWM

The primary concerns for HWM are Price/Book, P/E Ratio. A P/E of 64.6x leaves little room for execution misses.

Bear Case : NX

The primary concerns for NX are Revenue Growth, Market Cap, Operating Margin.

Key Dynamics to Monitor

HWM profiles as a mature stock while NX is a turnaround play — different risk/reward profiles.

HWM carries more volatility with a beta of 1.24 — expect wider price swings.

HWM is growing revenue faster at 14.6% — sustainability is the question.

HWM generates stronger free cash flow (530M), providing more financial flexibility.

Bottom Line

HWM scores higher overall (69/100 vs 47/100), backed by strong 18.3% margins and 14.6% revenue growth. NX offers better value entry with a 77.3% margin of safety. Both earn "Strong 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.

Howmet Aerospace Inc

INDUSTRIALS · AEROSPACE & DEFENSE · USA

Howmet Aerospace Inc. is an American aerospace company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The company manufactures components for jet engines, fasteners and titanium structures for aerospace applications, and forged aluminum wheels for heavy trucks.

Quanex Building Products

INDUSTRIALS · BUILDING PRODUCTS & EQUIPMENT · USA

Quanex Building Products Corporation (NX) is a prominent manufacturer of innovative engineered materials and components for the building and construction sector, distinguished by its dedication to quality and sustainability. The company's extensive product offerings encompass energy-efficient window and door systems, alongside advanced engineered wood products, effectively addressing the needs of both residential and commercial markets. With an emphasis on operational excellence and a strong foundation in material science, Quanex utilizes its proprietary technologies to provide exceptional value, securing a competitive position in a rapidly evolving industry landscape focused on sustainable construction practices.

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