EMCOR vs. MasTec: Which Infrastructure Stock Is the Better Buy Now?

Core Viewpoint - EMCOR Group, Inc. and MasTec, Inc. are both prominent players in the infrastructure engineering and construction services sector, benefiting from increased demand for large-scale infrastructure projects driven by public and private investments in data centers, renewable energy, and 5G telecommunications [1][2]. Company Performance EMCOR Group, Inc. (EME) - EMCOR reported record results for 2024, with revenue increasing by 15.8% to $14.57 billion and net income rising by 59$1.01 billion, resulting in earnings per share (EPS) of $21.52, a 61.7$10.1 billion, up 14.2% year over year, indicating strong revenue visibility into 2025 [3][5]. - EMCOR's operating margin for Q4 2024 was 10.3%, an increase of 190 basis points from the previous year, reflecting effective project execution and cost controls [5]. - The company has consistently beaten earnings estimates, averaging a 29% upside surprise over the last four quarters [6]. - EMCOR's strategic acquisition of Miller Electric for $865 million is expected to enhance its presence in high-growth sectors and contribute approximately$805 million in annual revenues [7]. - As of early 2025, EMCOR held a cash position of $1.34 billion and increased its share repurchase authorization by$500 million, demonstrating financial strength and flexibility [8]. MasTec, Inc. (MTZ) - MasTec experienced a turnaround in 2024, reporting revenues of $12.3 billion, a modest increase from$12.0 billion in 2023, and a net income of $199 million [9]. - The adjusted EPS for MasTec in 2024 was approximately$3.95, more than double the previous year's result, indicating a strong recovery in profitability [9]. - MasTec's adjusted EBITDA margins improved to 8% by Q4 2024, up 110 basis points from the previous year, supported by operational improvements and successful integration of acquisitions [11]. - The company ended 2024 with a record 18-month backlog of $14.3 billion, reflecting a 15% increase year over year, which provides strong revenue visibility and growth potential for 2025 [11]. - MasTec has also consistently exceeded earnings estimates, with an average EPS surprise of 31.6% over the last four quarters [12]. Market Performance - EMCOR shares increased by approximately 110% in 2024 but have since declined by 15.3% year to date due to broader market volatility and concerns over margin sustainability [14]. - MasTec's stock gained around 80% in 2024 but has also pulled back by about 13% year to date, influenced by macroeconomic concerns and the company's investment phase [15]. - Both companies have outperformed the Zacks Building Products - Heavy Construction industry in the current year [15]. Valuation and Growth Estimates - EMCOR's forward 12-month price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio is about 16X, in line with the industry average, while MasTec's is closer to 20X, suggesting that EMCOR may offer better value [21]. - EMCOR's trailing 12-month return on equity (ROE) is 36.4%, significantly higher than the industry average of 15.5% and MasTec's 11.2% [25]. - Analysts have become increasingly optimistic about both companies' earnings potential, with upward revisions in EPS estimates for 2025 [18]. Conclusion - EMCOR is positioned as a more attractive short-term investment due to its balanced fundamental profile, superior execution, and strong returns, while MasTec, despite its high growth potential, carries a higher risk/reward profile due to elevated stock valuation [26][27].