Paychex, Inc. vs Advanced Drainage Systems Inc — how do they compare? Paychex, Inc. trades at $111.32 (market cap $39.82B), while Advanced Drainage Systems Inc trades at $141.75 (market cap $10.64B). The key difference: Paychex, Inc. is far larger — about 3.7× Advanced Drainage Systems Inc's market cap, and Paychex, Inc. pays the higher dividend (4.25%). Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| PAYX | WMS | |
|---|---|---|
Market Cap | $39.82B | $10.64B |
Sector | Industrials | Industrials |
52-Week High | $147.99 | $175.38 |
52-Week Low | $85.57 | $113.04 |
Enterprise Value | $43.31B | $12.21B |
Dividend Yield | 4.25% | 0.58% |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
Paychex (PAYX) trades at $111.96, down 2.12% on the day, with technical indicators showing a bullish trend despite overbought RSI readings. The company maintains strong profitability with 27.03% net margins and has beaten earnings estimates for three consecutive quarters. Recent dividend declarations of $1.19 per share and positive small business job growth data support the investment case.
The outlook remains positive with steady revenue growth and AI expansion driving future earnings. Key risks include macroeconomic headwinds affecting small business hiring and elevated valuation multiples. Analyst consensus is mixed with a $110 price target slightly below current levels, suggesting cautious optimism amid strong fundamentals.
WMS (Advanced Drainage Systems) trades at $138.74, down 5.97% on the day, with a bearish technical signal. The company shows solid fundamentals with a 13.98% net income margin and consistent earnings beats in recent quarters, though 2025 revenue was flat at $2.90B. Recent news includes a dividend increase and upcoming Q1 FY2027 results on August 6, 2026.
The stock presents a mixed outlook. Strong profitability and a consensus price target of $184.43 suggest upside potential, but near-term headwinds include a bearish technical setup and projected earnings decline in 2026. Key risks are execution on investments and competitive pressures in the water management sector.
Trailing returns across standard periods
Latest headlines on both assets
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 →Advanced Drainage Systems Inc is engaged in designing, manufacturing, and marketing thermoplastic corrugated pipe and related water management products in North and South America, and Europe. The company's operating segment includes Pipe
Read more on WMS →