AutoNation Inc (AN)vsThe Home Depot Inc (HD)
AN
AutoNation Inc
$203.67
-1.71%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $6.92B
HD
The Home Depot Inc
$308.74
+1.00%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $304.98B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
The Home Depot Inc generates 516% more annual revenue ($169.18B vs $27.45B). HD leads profitability with a 8.4% profit margin vs 2.8%. AN appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.58. AN earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 63/100 (C+).
AN
Buy63
out of 100
Grade: C+
HD
Buy58
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Intrinsic value data unavailable for AN.
Margin of Safety
-41.8%
Fair Value
$217.78
Current Price
$308.74
$90.96 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Every $100 of equity generates 30 in profit
Earnings expanding 138.5% YoY
Growing faster than its price suggests
Reasonable price relative to book value
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Every $100 of equity generates 86 in profit
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Generating 4.5B in free cash flow
Areas to Watch
2.8% margin — thin
Operating margin of 4.5%
Revenue declined 0.6%
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Expensive relative to growth rate
Trading at 18.5x book value
4.6% earnings growth
Weak financial health signals
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : AN
The strongest argument for AN centers on P/E Ratio, Return on Equity, EPS Growth. PEG of 0.58 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : HD
The strongest argument for HD centers on Market Cap, Return on Equity, Altman Z-Score.
Bear Case : AN
The primary concerns for AN are Profit Margin, Operating Margin, Revenue Growth. Debt-to-equity of 5.02 is elevated, increasing financial risk. Thin 2.8% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Bear Case : HD
The primary concerns for HD are PEG Ratio, Price/Book, EPS Growth. Debt-to-equity of 3.77 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
HD carries more volatility with a beta of 0.95 — expect wider price swings.
HD is growing revenue faster at 5.7% — sustainability is the question.
HD generates stronger free cash flow (4.5B), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor AUTO & TRUCK DEALERSHIPS industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
AN scores higher overall (63/100 vs 58/100). Both earn "Buy" and "Buy" ratings respectively — the choice depends on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.
This analysis is generated from publicly available financial data. Not financial advice.
AutoNation Inc
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · AUTO & TRUCK DEALERSHIPS · USA
AutoNation, Inc. is an automobile retailer in the United States. The company is headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
The Home Depot Inc
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · HOME IMPROVEMENT RETAIL · USA
The Home Depot, Inc., commonly known as Home Depot, is the largest home improvement retailer in the United States, supplying tools, construction products, and services. The company is headquartered in incorporated Cobb County, Georgia, with an Atlanta mailing address.
Compare with Other AUTO & TRUCK DEALERSHIPS Stocks
Want to dig deeper into these stocks?