MSC Industrial Direct Company Inc (MSM)vsWatsco Inc (WSO)
MSM
MSC Industrial Direct Company Inc
$120.51
+0.69%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $6.67B
WSO
Watsco Inc
$314.22
+1.07%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $13.04B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Watsco Inc generates 86% more annual revenue ($7.28B vs $3.91B). WSO leads profitability with a 6.5% profit margin vs 5.9%. WSO appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.21. MSM earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 61/100 (C+).
MSM
Buy61
out of 100
Grade: C+
WSO
Buy54
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+1.4%
Fair Value
$96.39
Current Price
$120.51
$24.12 discount
Intrinsic value data unavailable for WSO.
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Earnings expanding 41.1% YoY
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Moderate valuation
5.9% margin — thin
Weak financial health signals
Moderate valuation
2.1% revenue growth
6.5% margin — thin
Weak financial health signals
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : MSM
The strongest argument for MSM centers on Altman Z-Score, EPS Growth.
Bull Case : WSO
The strongest argument for WSO centers on Altman Z-Score, Debt/Equity. PEG of 1.21 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : MSM
The primary concerns for MSM are PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio, Profit Margin.
Bear Case : WSO
The primary concerns for WSO are P/E Ratio, Revenue Growth, Profit Margin.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
WSO carries more volatility with a beta of 1.04 — expect wider price swings.
MSM is growing revenue faster at 7.8% — sustainability is the question.
MSM generates stronger free cash flow (81M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTION industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
MSM scores higher overall (61/100 vs 54/100). 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.
MSC Industrial Direct Company Inc
INDUSTRIALS · INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTION · USA
MSC Industrial Direct Co., Inc., distributes metalworking and maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) products in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the United Kingdom. The company is headquartered in Melville, New York.
Watsco Inc
INDUSTRIALS · INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTION · USA
Watsco, Inc. distributes air conditioning, heating and refrigeration equipment; and related parts and supplies in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico. The company is headquartered in Miami, Florida.
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