Agilent Technologies Inc (A)vsMerck & Company Inc (MRK)
A
Agilent Technologies Inc
$126.49
-2.12%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $36.67B
MRK
Merck & Company Inc
$119.60
+0.84%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $283.78B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Merck & Company Inc generates 809% more annual revenue ($65.77B vs $7.23B). A leads profitability with a 19.6% profit margin vs 13.6%. A appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.28. A earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 71/100 (B).
A
Strong Buy71
out of 100
Grade: B
MRK
Hold50
out of 100
Grade: D+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-73.0%
Fair Value
$74.53
Current Price
$126.49
$51.96 premium
Margin of Safety
-40.6%
Fair Value
$80.96
Current Price
$119.60
$38.64 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Earnings expanding 60.0% YoY
Strong operational efficiency at 23.7%
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Strong operational efficiency at 38.6%
Generating 2.9B in free cash flow
Areas to Watch
Moderate valuation
Grey zone — moderate risk
Weak financial health signals
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
4.9% revenue growth
Elevated debt levels
Weak financial health signals
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : A
The strongest argument for A centers on EPS Growth, Operating Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 19.6% and operating margin at 23.7%. PEG of 1.28 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : MRK
The strongest argument for MRK centers on Market Cap, Operating Margin, Free Cash Flow.
Bear Case : A
The primary concerns for A are P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score, Piotroski F-Score.
Bear Case : MRK
The primary concerns for MRK are P/E Ratio, Revenue Growth, Debt/Equity.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
A profiles as a mature stock while MRK is a value play — different risk/reward profiles.
A carries more volatility with a beta of 1.26 — expect wider price swings.
A is growing revenue faster at 10.0% — sustainability is the question.
MRK generates stronger free cash flow (2.9B), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
A scores higher overall (71/100 vs 50/100), backed by strong 19.6% margins. Both earn "Strong Buy" and "Hold" ratings respectively — the choice depends on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.
This analysis is generated from publicly available financial data. Not financial advice.
Agilent Technologies Inc
HEALTHCARE · DIAGNOSTICS & RESEARCH · USA
Agilent Technologies, Inc. is an American analytical instrumentation development and manufacturing company that offers its products and services to markets worldwide. Its global headquarters is located in Santa Clara, California.
Merck & Company Inc
HEALTHCARE · DRUG MANUFACTURERS - GENERAL · USA
Merck & Co. is an American multinational pharmaceutical company headquartered in Kenilworth, New Jersey. It is named after the Merck family, which set up Merck Group in Germany in 1668.
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