GBX vs. HRI: Which Stock Should Value Investors Buy Now?

Core Viewpoint - Investors in the Transportation - Equipment and Leasing sector should consider Greenbrier Companies (GBX) as a more favorable investment compared to Herc Holdings (HRI) based on various valuation metrics and earnings outlook [1] Valuation Metrics - GBX has a forward P/E ratio of 11.36, while HRI has a forward P/E of 13.17, indicating that GBX may be undervalued relative to HRI [5] - The PEG ratio for GBX is 0.97, suggesting better value when considering expected earnings growth, compared to HRI's PEG ratio of 1.03 [5] - GBX's P/B ratio stands at 1.33, significantly lower than HRI's P/B of 3.82, further indicating that GBX is more attractively priced [6] Earnings Outlook - GBX currently has a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy), reflecting an improving earnings estimate revision trend, while HRI has a Zacks Rank of 5 (Strong Sell), indicating a less favorable outlook [3][7] - The improving earnings outlook for GBX positions it as a superior value option in the current market [7]