Illinois Tool Works Inc (ITW)vsNordson Corporation (NDSN)
ITW
Illinois Tool Works Inc
$268.16
+1.12%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $76.37B
NDSN
Nordson Corporation
$314.47
+2.28%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $17.65B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Illinois Tool Works Inc generates 453% more annual revenue ($16.47B vs $2.98B). ITW leads profitability with a 19.4% profit margin vs 18.6%. NDSN appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.81. NDSN earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 65/100 (C+).
ITW
Buy62
out of 100
Grade: C+
NDSN
Buy65
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Intrinsic value data unavailable for ITW.
Margin of Safety
-79.8%
Fair Value
$163.73
Current Price
$314.47
$150.74 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 110 in profit
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Large-cap with strong market position
Strong operational efficiency at 26.9%
Strong operational efficiency at 27.4%
Earnings expanding 23.0% YoY
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Weak financial health signals
Trading at 26.4x book value
Elevated debt levels
Expensive relative to growth rate
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : ITW
The strongest argument for ITW centers on Return on Equity, Altman Z-Score, Market Cap. Profitability is solid with margins at 19.4% and operating margin at 26.9%.
Bull Case : NDSN
The strongest argument for NDSN centers on Operating Margin, EPS Growth. Profitability is solid with margins at 18.6% and operating margin at 27.4%. Revenue growth of 10.3% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : ITW
The primary concerns for ITW are PEG Ratio, Piotroski F-Score, Price/Book. Debt-to-equity of 3.35 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Bear Case : NDSN
The primary concerns for NDSN are PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
ITW carries more volatility with a beta of 1.00 — expect wider price swings.
NDSN is growing revenue faster at 10.3% — sustainability is the question.
ITW generates stronger free cash flow (631M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor SPECIALTY INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
NDSN scores higher overall (65/100 vs 62/100), backed by strong 18.6% margins and 10.3% revenue growth. 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.
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.
Nordson Corporation
INDUSTRIALS · SPECIALTY INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY · USA
Nordson Corporation designs, manufactures, and markets products and systems for dispensing, applying, and controlling adhesives, coatings, polymers, sealants, biomaterials, and other fluids globally. The company is headquartered in Westlake, Ohio.
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