AutoNation Inc (AN)vsMorgan Stanley (MS)
AN
AutoNation Inc
$205.97
+0.33%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $6.88B
MS
Morgan Stanley
$193.09
+1.54%
FINANCIAL SERVICES · Cap: $299.95B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Morgan Stanley generates 166% more annual revenue ($73.17B vs $27.49B). MS leads profitability with a 24.7% profit margin vs 2.5%. AN appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.74. MS earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 73/100 (B).
AN
Buy63
out of 100
Grade: C+
MS
Strong Buy73
out of 100
Grade: B
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+15.1%
Fair Value
$244.66
Current Price
$205.97
$38.69 discount
Intrinsic value data unavailable for MS.
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Every $100 of equity generates 29 in profit
Growing faster than its price suggests
Earnings expanding 31.5% YoY
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Strong operational efficiency at 40.6%
Keeps 25 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Reasonable price relative to book value
16.3% revenue growth
Areas to Watch
2.5% margin — thin
Operating margin of 4.7%
Weak financial health signals
Revenue declined 2.1%
Expensive relative to growth rate
Weak financial health signals
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : AN
The strongest argument for AN centers on P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score, Return on Equity. PEG of 0.74 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : MS
The strongest argument for MS centers on Market Cap, Operating Margin, Profit Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 24.7% and operating margin at 40.6%. Revenue growth of 16.3% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : AN
The primary concerns for AN are Profit Margin, Operating Margin, Piotroski F-Score. Thin 2.5% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Bear Case : MS
The primary concerns for MS are PEG Ratio, Piotroski F-Score, Free Cash Flow.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AN profiles as a value stock while MS is a growth play — different risk/reward profiles.
MS carries more volatility with a beta of 1.21 — expect wider price swings.
MS is growing revenue faster at 16.3% — sustainability is the question.
AN generates stronger free cash flow (-34M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
MS scores higher overall (73/100 vs 63/100), backed by strong 24.7% margins and 16.3% revenue growth. AN offers better value entry with a 15.1% margin of safety. Both earn "Strong 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.
Morgan Stanley
FINANCIAL SERVICES · CAPITAL MARKETS · USA
Morgan Stanley is an American multinational investment bank and financial services company headquartered at 1585 Broadway in the Morgan Stanley Building, Midtown Manhattan, New York City.
Compare with Other AUTO & TRUCK DEALERSHIPS Stocks
Want to dig deeper into these stocks?