Intercontinental Exchange Inc (ICE)vsWaters Corporation (WAT)
ICE
Intercontinental Exchange Inc
$156.83
+0.65%
FINANCIAL SERVICES · Cap: $88.85B
WAT
Waters Corporation
$302.32
+0.13%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $29.66B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Intercontinental Exchange Inc generates 214% more annual revenue ($9.93B vs $3.17B). ICE leads profitability with a 33.4% profit margin vs 20.3%. WAT appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.25. ICE earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 63/100 (C+).
ICE
Buy63
out of 100
Grade: C+
WAT
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+38.6%
Fair Value
$255.26
Current Price
$156.83
$98.43 discount
Margin of Safety
-349.9%
Fair Value
$73.17
Current Price
$302.32
$229.15 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Keeps 33 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Strong operational efficiency at 49.6%
Large-cap with strong market position
Earnings expanding 23.4% YoY
Generating 1.1B in free cash flow
Strong operational efficiency at 33.8%
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Every $100 of equity generates 29 in profit
Keeps 20 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Moderate valuation
Distress zone — elevated risk
Moderate valuation
Earnings declined 3.1%
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : ICE
The strongest argument for ICE centers on Profit Margin, Operating Margin, Market Cap. Profitability is solid with margins at 33.4% and operating margin at 49.6%.
Bull Case : WAT
The strongest argument for WAT centers on Operating Margin, Altman Z-Score, Return on Equity. Profitability is solid with margins at 20.3% and operating margin at 33.8%. PEG of 1.25 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : ICE
The primary concerns for ICE are PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score.
Bear Case : WAT
The primary concerns for WAT are P/E Ratio, EPS Growth.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
WAT carries more volatility with a beta of 1.20 — expect wider price swings.
ICE is growing revenue faster at 7.8% — sustainability is the question.
ICE generates stronger free cash flow (1.1B), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor FINANCIAL DATA & STOCK EXCHANGES industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
ICE scores higher overall (63/100 vs 60/100), backed by strong 33.4% margins. 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.
Intercontinental Exchange Inc
FINANCIAL SERVICES · FINANCIAL DATA & STOCK EXCHANGES · USA
The Intercontinental Exchange (ICE) is an American Fortune 500 company formed in 2000 that operates global exchanges, clearing houses and provides mortgage technology, data and listing services. The company owns exchanges for financial and commodity markets, and operates regulated exchanges and marketplaces.
Visit Website →Waters Corporation
HEALTHCARE · DIAGNOSTICS & RESEARCH · USA
Waters Corporation is a publicly traded Analytical Laboratory instrument and software company headquartered in Milford, Massachusetts.
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