WallStSmart

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

VS

Smart Verdict

WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison

Howmet Aerospace Inc generates 364% more annual revenue ($8.62B vs $1.86B). HWM leads profitability with a 20.2% profit margin vs -13.9%. NX appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.70. HWM earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 73/100 (B).

HWM

Strong Buy

73

out of 100

Grade: B

Growth: 8.7Profit: 9.0Value: 5.0Quality: 7.5
Piotroski: 6/9Altman Z: 2.61

NX

Hold

47

out of 100

Grade: D+

Growth: 4.7Profit: 3.5Value: 6.0Quality: 5.5
Piotroski: 4/9Altman Z: 1.27

Key Strengths & Concerns

Side-by-side fundamental analysis

Key Strengths

HWM6 strengths · Avg: 9.0/10
Return on EquityProfitability
31.6%10/10

Every $100 of equity generates 32 in profit

EPS GrowthGrowth
71.4%10/10

Earnings expanding 71.4% YoY

Market CapQuality
$108.21B9/10

Large-cap with strong market position

Profit MarginProfitability
20.2%9/10

Keeps 20 of every $100 in revenue as profit

PEG RatioValuation
0.808/10

Growing faster than its price suggests

Operating MarginProfitability
28.2%8/10

Strong operational efficiency at 28.2%

NX2 strengths · Avg: 9.0/10
Price/BookValuation
1.1x10/10

Reasonable price relative to book value

PEG RatioValuation
0.708/10

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
62.9x2/10

Premium valuation, high expectations priced in

NX4 concerns · Avg: 3.3/10
Revenue GrowthGrowth
2.2%4/10

2.2% revenue growth

Market CapQuality
$764.70M3/10

Smaller company, higher risk/reward

Operating MarginProfitability
4.0%3/10

Operating margin of 4.0%

Debt/EquityHealth
1.223/10

Elevated debt levels

Comparative Analysis Report

WallStSmart Research

Bull Case : HWM

The strongest argument for HWM centers on Return on Equity, EPS Growth, Market Cap. Profitability is solid with margins at 20.2% and operating margin at 28.2%. Revenue growth of 19.1% demonstrates continued momentum.

Bull Case : NX

The strongest argument for NX centers on Price/Book, PEG Ratio. PEG of 0.70 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 62.9x 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 growth stock while NX is a turnaround play — different risk/reward profiles.

HWM carries more volatility with a beta of 1.19 — expect wider price swings.

HWM is growing revenue faster at 19.1% — sustainability is the question.

HWM generates stronger free cash flow (359M), providing more financial flexibility.

Bottom Line

HWM scores higher overall (73/100 vs 47/100), backed by strong 20.2% margins and 19.1% revenue growth. 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 leading manufacturer specializing in engineered materials and components tailored for the building and construction industry, with a strong emphasis on quality and sustainability. The company offers a wide range of products, including energy-efficient window and door systems and advanced engineered wood solutions, catering to both residential and commercial markets. Leveraging proprietary technologies and a commitment to operational excellence, Quanex effectively positions itself as a key player in the evolving landscape of sustainable construction, delivering value and innovation amidst increasing demand for eco-friendly building solutions.

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