e l f Beauty Inc vs Paychex, Inc. — how do they compare? e l f Beauty Inc trades at $94.8 (market cap $5.62B), while Paychex, Inc. trades at $121.14 (market cap $43.10B). The key difference: Paychex, Inc. is far larger — about 7.7× e l f Beauty Inc's market cap, and Paychex, Inc. pays a 3.93% dividend while e l f Beauty Inc pays none. Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| ELF | PAYX | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $5.62B | $43.10B |
Sector | Technology | Industrials |
52-Week High | $146.67 | $140.81 |
52-Week Low | $49.57 | $85.57 |
Enterprise Value | $6.20B | $46.59B |
Dividend Yield | — | 3.93% |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
ELF trades at $98.49, up 6.69% in 24 hours, near its 52-week high. The stock exhibits a bullish technical trend with strong support at $93 and resistance at $101. Recent Q2 2026 earnings beat expectations with EPS of $1.75 versus $0.71 expected, driven by 36% revenue growth and the Rhode acquisition. The company raised fiscal 2027 guidance, reflecting robust demand and international expansion.
Outlook remains positive due to consistent sales growth and strategic initiatives, but risks include high valuation (P/E 97.18) and reliance on acquisitions for growth. The stock offers growth potential but faces margin pressure from increased investments and competitive dynamics in the beauty sector.
Paychex (PAYX) trades at $120.04, down slightly by 0.07% on the day, with a bullish technical signal from moving averages. The company reported strong earnings beats in recent quarters, with Q1 2026 EPS of $1.32 exceeding the $1.31 estimate. Revenue grew to $5.57 billion in 2025, though net income margin dipped to 27.03%. Recent news highlights expansion of its WISE platform and steady small business employment trends, supporting growth prospects.
The outlook remains positive given consistent earnings outperformance and strategic initiatives, but risks include elevated valuation ratios and potential economic sensitivity. Analyst consensus is mixed with a hold-heavy rating, and the current price sits above the $114.50 target, suggesting limited near-term upside. Dividend payments provide income support, yet investors should weigh growth against premium multiples.
Trailing returns across standard periods
e.l.f. Beauty is a leading cosmetics company offering high-quality, 100% vegan, and cruelty-free products. It is known for its affordable and prestige-quality makeup and skincare items for a diverse global audience.
Read more on ELF →Paychex is a leading provider of payroll, human capital management, and insurance solutions servicing small and midsize clients primarily in the United States. The company, established in 1979, services over 730,000 clients and pays over 1 in 12 U.S. private-sector workers. Alongside its traditional payroll services, Paychex offers HCM solutions such as benefits administration and time and attendance software, as well as human resources outsourcing and insurance agency services.
Read more on PAYX →