Waters Corporation (WAT)vsWest Pharmaceutical Services Inc (WST)
WAT
Waters Corporation
$302.32
+0.13%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $29.66B
WST
West Pharmaceutical Services Inc
$247.02
+0.71%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $17.68B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Waters Corporation generates 3% more annual revenue ($3.17B vs $3.07B). WAT leads profitability with a 20.3% profit margin vs 16.1%. WAT appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.25. WAT earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 60/100 (C).
WAT
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C
WST
Buy55
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-349.9%
Fair Value
$73.17
Current Price
$302.32
$229.15 premium
Margin of Safety
-256.8%
Fair Value
$68.99
Current Price
$247.02
$178.03 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
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
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Strong operational efficiency at 21.6%
Areas to Watch
Moderate valuation
Earnings declined 3.1%
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
2.1% earnings growth
Expensive relative to growth rate
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull 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.
Bull Case : WST
The strongest argument for WST centers on Altman Z-Score, Operating Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 16.1% and operating margin at 21.6%.
Bear Case : WAT
The primary concerns for WAT are P/E Ratio, EPS Growth.
Bear Case : WST
The primary concerns for WST are P/E Ratio, EPS Growth, PEG Ratio.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
WAT carries more volatility with a beta of 1.20 — expect wider price swings.
WST is growing revenue faster at 7.5% — sustainability is the question.
WST generates stronger free cash flow (175M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor DIAGNOSTICS & RESEARCH industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
WAT scores higher overall (60/100 vs 55/100), backed by strong 20.3% 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.
Waters Corporation
HEALTHCARE · DIAGNOSTICS & RESEARCH · USA
Waters Corporation is a publicly traded Analytical Laboratory instrument and software company headquartered in Milford, Massachusetts.
West Pharmaceutical Services Inc
HEALTHCARE · MEDICAL INSTRUMENTS & SUPPLIES · USA
West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. is a designer and manufacturer of injectable pharmaceutical packaging and delivery systems. The company is headquartered in Exton, Pennsylvania.
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