On the stock market since 1995, it operates in the world of health and science. It has 7,900 employees. Now — the numbers.
This is an established company with proven profits.
Revenue is spread across several lines; no single product carries the company.
Executives buying with their own money is usually read as confidence in the company’s future.
We compared this company with its own sector across five subjects.
A score of 50 means class average.
Clearly above the class average — a step short of the very top.
Clearly below the class average.
Clearly above the class average — a step short of the very top.
This grade is a blend: the profit side is strong, the sales tempo slow.
Clearly above the class average — a step short of the very top.
Financial Strength: The cash-and-debt balance is thin; the buffer for hard times is slim.
The stock trades near its peak today. For long-term holders the ride has paid off so far — though past performance guarantees nothing about the future.
The net profit margin is 20% — still a thick cushion, though costs have been eating into it lately.
It met or beat analyst expectations in 8 of the last 8 quarters — consistency is a promise kept.
Over the last 12 months, company executives reported 59 buys and 14 sells. Management buying with its own money is usually read as a good sign.
Over the last 3 years, sales grew only 2% a year on average — the report card’s higher growth grade leans on profit power instead.
The company’s market value is 48 times its annual profit. Even a small disappointment could hit the price hard.
On our five-subject report card, WAT sits in the middle of the class: some subjects shine, others don’t. The grade moves as the numbers move.
The takeaway: WAT is an established business that has proven its profits for years. The real debate here isn’t the price — it’s whether the company can keep up this pace.