Target Corporation (TGT)vsWaters Corporation (WAT)
TGT
Target Corporation
$116.37
+0.39%
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · Cap: $52.70B
WAT
Waters Corporation
$302.32
+0.13%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $29.66B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Target Corporation generates 3210% more annual revenue ($104.78B vs $3.17B). WAT leads profitability with a 20.3% profit margin vs 3.5%. WAT appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.25. WAT earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 60/100 (C).
TGT
Hold46
out of 100
Grade: D+
WAT
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-107.3%
Fair Value
$55.28
Current Price
$116.37
$61.09 premium
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
Large-cap with strong market position
Every $100 of equity generates 24 in profit
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Generating 2.3B 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
3.5% margin — thin
Operating margin of 4.9%
Expensive relative to growth rate
Revenue declined 1.5%
Moderate valuation
Earnings declined 3.1%
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : TGT
The strongest argument for TGT centers on Market Cap, Return on Equity, P/E Ratio.
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 : TGT
The primary concerns for TGT are Profit Margin, Operating Margin, PEG Ratio. Thin 3.5% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Bear Case : WAT
The primary concerns for WAT are P/E Ratio, EPS Growth.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
TGT profiles as a value stock while WAT is a mature play — different risk/reward profiles.
WAT carries more volatility with a beta of 1.20 — expect wider price swings.
WAT is growing revenue faster at 6.8% — sustainability is the question.
TGT generates stronger free cash flow (2.3B), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
WAT scores higher overall (60/100 vs 46/100), backed by strong 20.3% margins. Both earn "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.
Target Corporation
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · DISCOUNT STORES · USA
Target Corporation is an American retail corporation. Their retail formats include the discount store Target, the hypermarket SuperTarget, and small-format stores previously named CityTarget and TargetExpress before being consolidated under the Target branding.
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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