Automatic Data Processing Inc vs Diageo plc — how do they compare? Automatic Data Processing Inc trades at $268.32 (market cap $107.69B), while Diageo plc trades at $93.63 (market cap $53.05B). The key difference: Automatic Data Processing Inc is far larger — about 2× Diageo plc's market cap, and Diageo plc pays the higher dividend (3.5%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| ADP | DEO | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $107.69B | $53.05B |
Sector | Industrials | Technology |
52-Week High | $309.03 | $115.33 |
52-Week Low | $188.79 | $72.47 |
Enterprise Value | $108.73B | $72.54B |
Dividend Yield | 2.51% | 3.5% |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
ADP trades at $268.23, down 1.99% over the past day, with a bullish technical signal from moving averages and a consensus analyst price target of $280.50. The company reported strong earnings beats in recent quarters, with Q4 2026 EPS of $2.62 beating expectations, and maintains robust profitability with a net income margin of 20.11%. Recent news highlights dividend declarations and positive earnings momentum, though valuation ratios like a P/E of 24.78 suggest a premium.
The outlook for ADP is supported by consistent earnings growth and solid cash flow, but high valuation multiples and competitive pressures in payroll processing pose risks. Upside potential exists if the company meets Q3 2026 EPS expectations of $2.78, while macroeconomic labor market trends could impact performance. Analyst sentiment is mixed, with 63.89% holding, indicating cautious optimism amid elevated pricing.
Diageo (DEO) trades at $93.61, down 3.6% over 24 hours, with a bullish technical signal from moving averages but overbought RSI readings. The company reported mixed FY2026 results with a 2% organic sales decline but 2% operating profit growth, supported by cost savings. A new $1 billion savings plan and focus on spirits and Guinness aim to drive a turnaround, with cash flow from operations strong at $4.4 billion in 2026.
The outlook is cautiously optimistic, with analyst consensus leaning buy (49%) amid execution of the cost-cutting strategy. Risks include North America weakness and competitive pressures, but valuation metrics like P/E of 30.5 reflect growth expectations. The stock offers potential for recovery if management delivers on efficiency gains and market share stabilization.
Trailing returns across standard periods
Latest headlines on both assets
ADP is a provider of payroll and human capital management solutions servicing the full scope of businesses from micro to global enterprises. ADP was established in 1949 and serves over 990,000 clients primarily in the United States. ADP's employer services segment offers payroll, HCM solutions, HR outsourcing, insurance and retirement services. The smaller but faster-growing PEO segment provides HR outsourcing solutions to small and midsize businesses through a co-employment model.
Read more on ADP →Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands including Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff, and Guinness. It operates a vast portfolio of spirits and beers across more than 180 countries.
Read more on DEO →