J or WMS: Which Is the Better Value Stock Right Now?

Core Viewpoint - Investors are evaluating Jacobs Solutions (J) and Advanced Drainage Systems (WMS) to determine which stock offers better value for investment at the current time [1] Group 1: Zacks Rank and Earnings Outlook - Both Jacobs Solutions and Advanced Drainage Systems currently hold a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy), indicating a positive earnings outlook due to favorable analyst estimate revisions [3] - The Zacks Rank is a reliable indicator for value investors as it emphasizes companies with improving earnings forecasts [2] Group 2: Valuation Metrics - Jacobs Solutions has a forward P/E ratio of 20.88, while Advanced Drainage Systems has a higher forward P/E of 29.09 [5] - The PEG ratio for Jacobs Solutions is 1.54, compared to Advanced Drainage Systems' PEG ratio of 2.26, indicating Jacobs Solutions may be undervalued relative to its expected earnings growth [5] - Jacobs Solutions has a P/B ratio of 5.07, while Advanced Drainage Systems has a P/B ratio of 7, further suggesting that Jacobs Solutions is a more attractive value option [6] Group 3: Value Grades - Based on the valuation metrics, Jacobs Solutions has earned a Value grade of B, whereas Advanced Drainage Systems has received a Value grade of D, indicating a stronger value proposition for Jacobs Solutions [6]