IQV vs. WAT: Which Stock Should Value Investors Buy Now?

Core Viewpoint - Investors are evaluating IQVIA Holdings (IQV) and Waters (WAT) for potential undervalued stock opportunities, with IQV currently appearing as the more favorable option based on various valuation metrics [1]. Valuation Metrics - IQV has a forward P/E ratio of 22.16, while WAT has a higher forward P/E of 25.97, indicating that IQV may be more attractively priced [3]. - The PEG ratio for IQV is 2.05, compared to WAT's PEG ratio of 4.90, suggesting that IQV's expected earnings growth is more reasonably priced [3]. - IQV holds a Value grade of B, while WAT has a Value grade of D, reflecting stronger estimate revision activity and more attractive valuation metrics for IQV [4]. Zacks Rank and Style Scores - IQV has a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy), indicating a positive earnings estimate revision trend, while WAT has a Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) [2]. - The Zacks Rank system favors stocks with strong earnings estimate revisions, and combining this with a strong Value grade can help identify great value stocks [5]. Additional Valuation Comparisons - IQV's P/B ratio is 6.65, significantly lower than WAT's P/B ratio of 14.50, further indicating that IQV may be undervalued relative to its book value [6]. - The Value category of the Style Scores system utilizes various metrics, including P/E ratio, P/S ratio, earnings yield, and cash flow per share, to assess a company's fair value [7].