CAT vs FAST: Which is Better to Buy in 2026?

Side-by-side fundamental comparison based on AI analysis of SEC filings

AI Verdict

FAST has stronger fundamentals based on our AI analysis.

CAT
CATERPILLAR INC
A
70%
Confidence
VS
FAST
FASTENAL CO
A
90%
Confidence

CAT vs FAST Fundamental Comparison

Metric CAT FAST
Revenue $17.4B $8.2B
Net Income $2.5B $1.3B
Net Margin 14.6% 15.3%
ROE 13.7% 31.9%
ROA 2.7% 24.9%
Current Ratio 1.35x 4.85x
Debt/Equity 1.65x 0.03x
EPS $5.47 $1.09

Green = Better metric | Red = Weaker metric

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Browse Sectors: Technology Healthcare Finance Energy Consumer Industrial
Stock Lists: Top Rated Undervalued Growth Dividend

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CAT vs FAST: Frequently Asked Questions

Is CAT or FAST the better stock in 2026?

Based on dual AI fundamental analysis (Claude and ChatGPT), FAST has stronger fundamentals. CAT is graded A (70% confidence) while FAST is graded A (90% confidence). This is not investment advice.

How does CAT compare to FAST fundamentally?

CATERPILLAR INC has ROE of 13.7% vs FASTENAL CO's 31.9%. Net margins are 14.6% vs 15.3% respectively.

Which stock pays higher dividends, CAT or FAST?

CAT has a dividend yield of N/A or no dividend while FAST has N/A or no dividend. Check individual stock pages for detailed dividend history and payout ratios.

Should I invest in CAT or FAST for long term?

For long-term investing, consider that CAT has a A grade with 70% confidence, while FAST has a A grade with 90% confidence. Higher confidence indicates more consistent fundamentals from SEC filings. This is not investment advice - always do your own research.

What do the AI models say about CAT vs FAST?

Our dual AI system (Claude by Anthropic and ChatGPT by OpenAI) analyzes SEC 10-K and 10-Q filings independently. For CAT vs FAST, the AI consensus favors FAST based on fundamental metrics including revenue growth, profitability, ROE, and balance sheet strength.