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NDSN vs ROK
Which Stock Would AI Choose? Nordson Corporation (NDSN) vs. Rockwell Automation (ROK) Stock Comparison
Key Takeaways
- Both NDSN and ROK have delivered strong recent performance, but they serve different corners of the industrial economy: precision dispensing versus industrial automation and software.
- NDSN has shown faster price momentum, gaining roughly 44% over the past year, supported by record results and a 35% year-over-year backlog increase.
- ROK posted double-digit sales and earnings growth in its latest quarter and raised full-year guidance, with notable strength in software, data centers, and semiconductors.
- Both names trade at premium valuation multiples relative to their machinery and electrical peer groups, a key risk if demand cools.
- Risk profiles differ: NDSN carries higher leverage and currency exposure, while ROK faces project-deferral risk in longer-cycle businesses.
- The relative trade-off centers on NDSN's compounding, diversified niche model versus ROK's larger, software-inflected automation platform.
Introduction
Investors evaluating the industrial technology sector often weigh specialized, high-margin franchises against scaled automation platforms. This stock comparison of Nordson Corporation (NDSN) and Rockwell Automation (ROK) highlights that distinction. Both are quality industrial names with durable competitive positions, yet their market positioning, growth drivers, and risk profiles differ meaningfully. Traders focused on relative performance and momentum may find this comparison useful, as may longer-term investors assessing which business model offers a more attractive balance of growth, margins, and valuation in the current environment.
NDSN Overview and Recent Performance
Nordson Corporation (NDSN) engineers and manufactures precision systems that dispense, apply, and control adhesives, coatings, polymers, and other fluids. Its three segments—Industrial Precision Solutions, Medical and Fluid Solutions, and Advanced Technology Solutions—serve end markets spanning consumer goods, medical devices, and electronics and semiconductors.
Recent market activity has favored the stock, which gained roughly 44% over the past year and is up by a double-digit percentage year to date. The advance has been supported by a series of record quarterly results. In its latest reported quarter, sales rose about 10% year over year, with Advanced Technology Solutions growing roughly 28% on electronics dispense demand, while backlog increased 35%. Management raised full-year sales and adjusted earnings guidance, citing broad-based order momentum. The company also extended its dividend streak to 63 consecutive years with a 15% increase, underscoring strong free cash flow. Elevated leverage, currency swings, and a heavier semiconductor-linked mix are among the factors investors are monitoring.
ROK Overview and Recent Performance
Rockwell Automation (ROK) is a leading provider of industrial automation and digital transformation, operating through Intelligent Devices, Software & Control, and Lifecycle Services. Its customers span discrete manufacturing, process industries, and hybrid applications worldwide.
The stock has also performed well in recent market activity, with a one-year total return above 30% and a solid year-to-date gain. Results have been robust: in its most recent quarter, revenue rose about 12% year over year, while adjusted earnings per share increased roughly 32%. Software & Control led the way with around 17% organic growth, and demand was particularly strong in data centers, semiconductors, e-commerce and warehouse automation, and energy. Management raised full-year sales and adjusted earnings guidance and cited momentum in annual recurring revenue (ARR, a measure of predictable subscription and service income). Analysts lifted price targets following the report. Key risks include the deferral of larger capital projects, slower growth in recurring services, and a premium valuation.
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Head-to-Head Comparison
Business models differ sharply. NDSN is a precision-engineered, niche leader with a "close-to-the-customer" model, high gross margins, and diversified but comparatively smaller end markets. ROK is a scaled automation franchise pairing hardware with a fast-growing software and control platform, giving it a larger total addressable market and a growing recurring-revenue mix.
Growth drivers also diverge. NDSN's momentum leans on electronics dispense, semiconductor packaging, and a recovery in medical and fluid applications. ROK's catalysts include AI data centers, warehouse automation, and software adoption, though its longer-cycle project business remains subject to deferrals.
From a valuation and risk standpoint, both trade at premiums to their industrial peer groups, leaving limited room for error. NDSN carries relatively higher debt and foreign-exchange sensitivity, while ROK faces cyclical project timing and a higher earnings multiple. In relative performance terms, NDSN has recently delivered the stronger share-price momentum, whereas ROK offers broader, more software-driven diversification.
Tickeron AI Verdict
Based on observable factors such as trend consistency, earnings momentum, and relative positioning, Tickeron's AI would likely lean toward NDSN in the current environment. The stock's stronger price trend, accelerating backlog, and broad-based organic growth across all three segments suggest more consistent momentum. That said, ROK presents a compelling counter-case through software-led margin expansion and exposure to fast-growing AI and data-center demand. The AI verdict therefore favors NDSN on near-term trend and stability, while recognizing that ROK may hold an edge on longer-term diversification and recurring-revenue growth. The outcome remains probabilistic rather than definitive.
Disclaimer
The information on this webpage is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as investment advice, a recommendation to purchase or sell any security, or an offer or solicitation related to investments. It does not consider your personal financial situation, goals, or risk profile, and all investing carries inherent risks, including the possibility of losing your entire investment. For more details, please review our full disclaimer.
To compare these two companies we present long-term analysis, their fundamental ratings and make comparative short-term technical analysis which are presented below. The conclusion is NDSN is a StrongBuy and ROK is a Buy.
Momentum Indicator for NDSN turns positive, indicating new upward trend
NDSN saw its Momentum Indicator move above the 0 level on October 29, 2026. This is an indication that the stock could be shifting in to a new upward move. Traders may want to consider buying the stock or buying call options. Tickeron's A.I.dvisor looked at 83 similar instances where the indicator turned positive. In 52 of the 83 cases, the stock moved higher in the following days. The odds of a move higher are at 63%.
Technical Analysis (Indicators)
Bullish Trend Analysis
Following a +1.48% 3-day Advance, the price is estimated to grow further. Considering data from situations where NDSN advanced for three days, in 164 of 304 cases, the price rose further within the following month. The odds of a continued upward trend are 54%.
NDSN may jump back above the lower band and head toward the middle band. Traders may consider buying the stock or exploring call options.
The Aroon Indicator entered an Uptrend today. In 147 of 257 cases where NDSN Aroon's Indicator entered an Uptrend, the price rose further within the following month. The odds of a continued Uptrend are 57%.
Bearish Trend Analysis
The 10-day RSI Indicator for NDSN moved out of overbought territory on October 07, 2026. This could be a bearish sign for the stock. Traders may want to consider selling the stock or buying put options. Tickeron's A.I.dvisor looked at 33 similar instances where the indicator moved out of overbought territory. In 19 of the 33 cases, the stock moved lower in the following days. This puts the odds of a move lower at 58%.
The Stochastic Oscillator may be shifting from an upward trend to a downward trend. In 31 of 64 cases where NDSN's Stochastic Oscillator exited the overbought zone, the price fell further within the following month. The odds of a continued downward trend are 48%.
The Moving Average Convergence Divergence Histogram (MACD) for NDSN turned negative on October 12, 2026. This could be a sign that the stock is set to turn lower in the coming weeks. Traders may want to sell the stock or buy put options. Tickeron's A.I.dvisor looked at 51 similar instances when the indicator turned negative. In 23 of the 51 cases the stock turned lower in the days that followed. This puts the odds of success at 45%.
NDSN moved below its 50-day moving average on October 30, 2026 date and that indicates a change from an upward trend to a downward trend.
Following a 3-day decline, the stock is projected to fall further. Considering past instances where NDSN declined for three days, the price rose further in 50 of 62 cases within the following month. The odds of a continued downward trend are 44%.
Fundamental Analysis (Ratings)
The Tickeron PE Growth Rating for this company is 29 (best 1 - 100 worst), pointing to outstanding earnings growth. The PE Growth rating is based on a comparative analysis of stock PE ratio increase over the last 12 months compared against S&P 500 index constituents.
The Tickeron Price Growth Rating for this company is 42 (best 1 - 100 worst), indicating steady price growth. NDSN’s price grows at a higher rate over the last 12 months as compared to S&P 500 index constituents.
The Tickeron Profit vs. Risk Rating rating for this company is 48 (best 1 - 100 worst), indicating well-balanced risk and returns. The average Profit vs. Risk Rating rating for the industry is 74, placing this stock slightly better than average.
The Tickeron SMR rating for this company is 50 (best 1 - 100 worst), indicating strong sales and a profitable business model. SMR (Sales, Margin, Return on Equity) rating is based on comparative analysis of weighted Sales, Income Margin and Return on Equity values compared against S&P 500 index constituents. The weighted SMR value is a proprietary formula developed by Tickeron and represents an overall profitability measure for a stock.
The Tickeron Valuation Rating of 81 (best 1 - 100 worst) indicates that the company is slightly overvalued in the industry. This rating compares market capitalization estimated by our proprietary formula with the current market capitalization. This rating is based on the following metrics, as compared to industry averages: P/B Ratio (5.498) is normal, around the industry mean (4.242). P/E Ratio (32.462) is within average values for comparable stocks, (38.374). Projected Growth (PEG Ratio) (1.888) is also within normal values, averaging (1.879). Dividend Yield (0.012) settles around the average of (0.030) among similar stocks. P/S Ratio (5.828) is also within normal values, averaging (186.943).
The Tickeron Seasonality Score of 85 (best 1 - 100 worst) indicates that the company is significantly overvalued in the industry. The Tickeron Seasonality score describes the variance of predictable price changes around the same period every calendar year. These changes can be tied to a specific month, quarter, holiday or vacation period, as well as a meteorological or growing season.
ROK in upward trend: 10-day moving average broke above 50-day moving average on October 29, 2026
The 10-day moving average for ROK crossed bullishly above the 50-day moving average on October 29, 2026. This indicates that the trend has shifted higher and could be considered a buy signal. In 13 of 17 past instances when the 10-day crossed above the 50-day, the stock continued to move higher over the following month. The odds of a continued upward trend are 76%.
Technical Analysis (Indicators)
Bullish Trend Analysis
The Momentum Indicator moved above the 0 level on October 27, 2026. You may want to consider a long position or call options on ROK as a result. In 53 of 91 past instances where the momentum indicator moved above 0, the stock continued to climb. The odds of a continued upward trend are 58%.
The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) for ROK just turned positive on October 27, 2026. Looking at past instances where ROK's MACD turned positive, the stock continued to rise in 31 of 55 cases over the following month. The odds of a continued upward trend are 56%.
ROK moved above its 50-day moving average on October 27, 2026 date and that indicates a change from a downward trend to an upward trend.
Following a +2.78% 3-day Advance, the price is estimated to grow further. Considering data from situations where ROK advanced for three days, in 197 of 313 cases, the price rose further within the following month. The odds of a continued upward trend are 63%.
The Aroon Indicator entered an Uptrend today. In 150 of 256 cases where ROK Aroon's Indicator entered an Uptrend, the price rose further within the following month. The odds of a continued Uptrend are 59%.
Bearish Trend Analysis
The 10-day RSI Indicator for ROK moved out of overbought territory on October 06, 2026. This could be a bearish sign for the stock. Traders may want to consider selling the stock or buying put options. Tickeron's A.I.dvisor looked at 30 similar instances where the indicator moved out of overbought territory. In 24 of the 30 cases, the stock moved lower in the following days. This puts the odds of a move lower at 80%.
The Stochastic Oscillator has been in the overbought zone for 2 days. Expect a price pull-back in the near future.
Following a 3-day decline, the stock is projected to fall further. Considering past instances where ROK declined for three days, the price rose further in 50 of 62 cases within the following month. The odds of a continued downward trend are 53%.
ROK broke above its upper Bollinger Band on October 28, 2026. This could be a sign that the stock is set to drop as the stock moves back below the upper band and toward the middle band. You may want to consider selling the stock or exploring put options.
Fundamental Analysis (Ratings)
The Tickeron Seasonality Score of 6 (best 1 - 100 worst) indicates that the company is seriously undervalued in the industry. The Tickeron Seasonality score describes the variance of predictable price changes around the same period every calendar year. These changes can be tied to a specific month, quarter, holiday or vacation period, as well as a meteorological or growing season.
The Tickeron SMR rating for this company is 30 (best 1 - 100 worst), indicating very strong sales and a profitable business model. SMR (Sales, Margin, Return on Equity) rating is based on comparative analysis of weighted Sales, Income Margin and Return on Equity values compared against S&P 500 index constituents. The weighted SMR value is a proprietary formula developed by Tickeron and represents an overall profitability measure for a stock.
The Tickeron Profit vs. Risk Rating rating for this company is 39 (best 1 - 100 worst), indicating well-balanced risk and returns. The average Profit vs. Risk Rating rating for the industry is 74, placing this stock slightly better than average.
The Tickeron Price Growth Rating for this company is 46 (best 1 - 100 worst), indicating steady price growth. ROK’s price grows at a higher rate over the last 12 months as compared to S&P 500 index constituents.
The Tickeron PE Growth Rating for this company is 48 (best 1 - 100 worst), pointing to consistent earnings growth. The PE Growth rating is based on a comparative analysis of stock PE ratio increase over the last 12 months compared against S&P 500 index constituents.
The Tickeron Valuation Rating of 91 (best 1 - 100 worst) indicates that the company is significantly overvalued in the industry. This rating compares market capitalization estimated by our proprietary formula with the current market capitalization. This rating is based on the following metrics, as compared to industry averages: P/B Ratio (13.864) is normal, around the industry mean (4.242). P/E Ratio (40.690) is within average values for comparable stocks, (38.374). Projected Growth (PEG Ratio) (1.901) is also within normal values, averaging (1.879). Dividend Yield (0.013) settles around the average of (0.030) among similar stocks. P/S Ratio (5.198) is also within normal values, averaging (186.943).
NDSN | ROK | ||
|---|---|---|---|
OUTLOOK RATING 1..100 | 24 | 18 | |
VALUATION overvalued / fair valued / undervalued 1..100 | 81 Overvalued | 91 Overvalued | |
PROFIT vs RISK RATING 1..100 | 48 | 39 | |
SMR RATING 1..100 | 50 | 30 | |
PRICE GROWTH RATING 1..100 | 42 | 46 | |
P/E GROWTH RATING 1..100 | 29 | 48 | |
SEASONALITY SCORE 1..100 | 85 | 6 |
Tickeron ratings are formulated such that a rating of 1 designates the most successful stocks in a given industry, while a rating of 100 points to the least successful stocks for that industry.
NDSN's Valuation (81) in the Industrial Machinery industry is in the same range as ROK (91). This means that NDSN’s stock grew similarly to ROK’s over the last 12 months.
ROK's Profit vs Risk Rating (39) in the Industrial Machinery industry is in the same range as NDSN (48). This means that ROK’s stock grew similarly to NDSN’s over the last 12 months.
ROK's SMR Rating (30) in the Industrial Machinery industry is in the same range as NDSN (50). This means that ROK’s stock grew similarly to NDSN’s over the last 12 months.
NDSN's Price Growth Rating (42) in the Industrial Machinery industry is in the same range as ROK (46). This means that NDSN’s stock grew similarly to ROK’s over the last 12 months.
NDSN's P/E Growth Rating (29) in the Industrial Machinery industry is in the same range as ROK (48). This means that NDSN’s stock grew similarly to ROK’s over the last 12 months.
| NDSN | ROK | |
|---|---|---|
| RSI ODDS (%) | 2 days ago 58% | 2 days ago 80% |
| Stochastic ODDS (%) | 2 days ago 48% | 2 days ago 58% |
| Momentum ODDS (%) | 2 days ago 63% | 2 days ago 58% |
| MACD ODDS (%) | 2 days ago 45% | 2 days ago 56% |
| TrendWeek ODDS (%) | 2 days ago 56% | 2 days ago 63% |
| TrendMonth ODDS (%) | 2 days ago 53% | 2 days ago 63% |
| Advances ODDS (%) | 3 days ago 54% | 3 days ago 63% |
| Declines ODDS (%) | 24 days ago 44% | 17 days ago 53% |
| BollingerBands ODDS (%) | 2 days ago 49% | 2 days ago 60% |
| Aroon ODDS (%) | 2 days ago 57% | 2 days ago 59% |
Long-Term Analysis
It is best to consider a long-term outlook for a ticker by using Fundamental Analysis (FA) ratings. The rating of 1 to 100, where 1 is best and 100 is worst, is divided into thirds. The first third (a green rating of 1-33) indicates that the ticker is undervalued; the second third (a grey number between 34 and 66) means that the ticker is valued fairly; and the last third (red number of 67 to 100) reflects that the ticker is overvalued. We use an FA Score to show how many ratings show the ticker to be undervalued (green) or overvalued (red).
NDSN’s FA Score shows that 1 FA rating(s) are green while ROK’s FA Score has 1 green FA rating(s).
- NDSN’s FA Score: 1 green, 4 red.
- ROK’s FA Score: 1 green, 4 red.
Short-Term Analysis
It is best to consider a short-term outlook for a ticker by using Technical Analysis (TA) indicators. We use Odds of Success as the percentage of outcomes which confirm successful trade signals in the past.
If the Odds of Success (the likelihood of the continuation of a trend) for each indicator are greater than 50%, then the generated signal is confirmed. A green percentage from 90% to 51% indicates that the ticker is in a bullish trend. A red percentage from 90% - 51% indicates that the ticker is in a bearish trend. All grey percentages are below 50% and are considered not to confirm the trend signal.
NDSN’s TA Score shows that 4 TA indicator(s) are bullish while ROK’s TA Score has 6 bullish TA indicator(s).
- NDSN’s TA Score: 4 bullish, 5 bearish.
- ROK’s TA Score: 6 bullish, 4 bearish.
Price Growth
NDSN (@Industrial Machinery) experienced а +1.20% price change this week, while ROK (@Industrial Machinery) price change was +2.37% for the same time period.
The average weekly price growth across all stocks in the @Industrial Machinery industry was -0.31%. For the same industry, the average monthly price growth was -13.39%, and the average quarterly price growth was -19.07%.
Reported Earning Dates
NDSN is expected to report earnings on Dec 09, 2026.
ROK is expected to report earnings on Nov 05, 2026.
Industries' Descriptions
@Industrial Machinery (-0.31% weekly)The industry makes and maintains machines for consumers, the industry, and most other companies. While it has traditionally been categorized as heavy industry, some smaller companies are also branching into the light category. The industry is pivotal in providing the equipment for production in businesses like agriculture, mining, industry and construction, gas, electricity and water utilities. It also supplies supporting equipment for almost all sectors of the economy, such as equipment for heating, and air conditioning of buildings. Illinois Tool Works Inc., Parker-Hannifin Corporation and Rockwell Automation Inc are some of the major U.S. companies operating in this industry.
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NDSN and
Correlation & Price change
A.I.dvisor indicates that over the last year, NDSN has been closely correlated with SWK. These tickers have moved in lockstep 71% of the time. This A.I.-generated data suggests there is a high statistical probability that if NDSN jumps, then SWK could also see price increases.
| Ticker / NAME | Correlation To NDSN | 1D Price Change % | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NDSN | 100% | -1.95% | ||
| SWK - NDSN | 71% Closely correlated | -0.16% | ||
| ROP - NDSN | 68% Closely correlated | +3.77% | ||
| HLMN - NDSN | 67% Closely correlated | N/A | ||
| TKR - NDSN | 65% Loosely correlated | -3.42% | ||
| GTES - NDSN | 65% Loosely correlated | -9.22% | ||
More | ||||
ROK and
Correlation & Price change
A.I.dvisor indicates that over the last year, ROK has been closely correlated with EMR. These tickers have moved in lockstep 70% of the time. This A.I.-generated data suggests there is a high statistical probability that if ROK jumps, then EMR could also see price increases.