CAT vs FAST
Valuation
Profitability
Growth
Financial Health
Dividends
AI Verdict
CAT shows neutral fundamentals based on deterministic rules. Financial strength is stable (F-Score 4/9). Mixed signals with both opportunities and risks present.
Fastenal Company trades at a premium valuation with solid profitability and financial health, but recent price underperformance and mixed earnings execution temper near-term upside. The stock's P/E of 38.16 is well above sector average (31.89) and close peers like NSC and PCAR, though justified somewhat by superior ROE (32.74%) and disciplined capital structure (Debt/Equity: 0.13). Revenue and earnings growth remain healthy at ~11.7% and 11.5% YoY, but insider selling worth $10.16M over the past six months raises caution. Analysts are tepid with a 'hold' consensus and a $43.46 target implying only 7.4% upside, while the dividend yield of 2.18% offers modest support.
Compare Another Pair
Related Comparisons
CAT vs FAST: Head-to-Head Comparison
This page compares Caterpillar Inc. (CAT) and Fastenal Company (FAST) across key fundamental metrics including valuation ratios, profitability margins, growth rates, financial health indicators, and dividend metrics. Each metric highlights the better-performing stock so you can quickly identify relative strengths and weaknesses.
Our AI engine independently analyzes each company's financials, competitive position, and market conditions to produce a verdict (Bullish, Neutral, or Bearish) along with key strengths and risks. Use this comparison alongside your own research to make informed investment decisions.