A O Smith Corp vs Williams-Sonoma, Inc. — how do they compare? A O Smith Corp trades at $63.65 (market cap $8.65B), while Williams-Sonoma, Inc. trades at $250.52 (market cap $29.51B). The key difference: Williams-Sonoma, Inc. is far larger — about 3.4× A O Smith Corp's market cap, and A O Smith Corp pays the higher dividend (2.26%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| AOS | WSM | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $8.65B | $29.51B |
Sector | Industrials | Consumer Cyclical |
52-Week High | $80.47 | $251.81 |
52-Week Low | $55.78 | $168.64 |
Enterprise Value | $9.15B | $30.35B |
Dividend Yield | 2.26% | 1.21% |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
A.O. Smith Corporation (AOS) trades at $62.53, showing modest daily gains of 0.19%. The stock maintains strong profitability with 13.15% net margins and 27.13% ROE, though recent Q1 2026 earnings missed expectations. Technical indicators suggest a bullish trend with the current price near key support at $62. Recent leadership transition with Kevin Wheeler's retirement and Stephen Shafer assuming chairman role adds management continuity.
The outlook remains cautiously optimistic with a $67.25 consensus price target offering 7.5% upside potential. Strong North American performance and dividend growth provide support, but higher input costs and weaker China demand present headwinds. The stock's valuation appears reasonable at 17.74 P/E, though recent Zacks Strong Sell ratings warrant monitoring.
Williams-Sonoma (WSM) trades at $245.16, down 2.26% today, with a bullish technical signal from moving averages but overbought RSI readings. The company maintains strong profitability with a 13.81% net income margin and 54.01% ROE, supported by recent earnings beats. Recent news highlights investor interest and a CEO stock sale, while cash flow trends show variability, with 2025 net cash flow at -$49 million.
Outlook remains positive with consistent earnings performance and a 'Moderate Buy' analyst consensus, though risks include consumer discretionary sector volatility and competitive pressures. The stock trades above the consensus price target of $231.10, suggesting limited near-term upside based on current valuations.
Trailing returns across standard periods
A.O. Smith Corporation manufactures and markets comprehensive lines of residential and commercial gas, gas tankless, and electric water heaters. Supplementary products include water heating equipment, condensing and noncondensing boilers, and water system tanks. The company's two operating segments are by geographic region: North America (majority of total revenue) and the Rest of the World. A material portion of sales in North America derive from replacing existing products, and the company utilizes a wholesale distribution channel and multiple selling locations. The Rest of the World segment sells primarily to Asian countries and operates sales offices to expand distribution and market its product portfolio.
Read more on AOS →With a wide retail and direct-to-consumer presence, Williams-Sonoma is a leader in the $300 billion domestic home category, focused on expanding its exposure in the B2B, marketplace, and franchise areas. Namesake Williams-Sonoma (175 stores) offers high-end cooking essentials, while Pottery Barn (189) provides casual home accessories. Brand extensions include Pottery Barn Kids (52) and PBteen. West Elm (121) is an emerging concept for young professionals, and Rejuvenation (9) offers lighting and house parts. Williams-Sonoma also has a business-to-business team that supports projects that range from residential to large-scale commercial.
Read more on WSM →