AutoNation Inc (AN)vsOPENLANE, Inc. (OPLN)
AN
AutoNation Inc
$203.67
-1.71%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $6.92B
OPLN
OPENLANE, Inc.
$35.28
+1.47%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $4.33B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
AutoNation Inc generates 1223% more annual revenue ($27.45B vs $2.08B). OPLN leads profitability with a 9.7% profit margin vs 2.8%. AN appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.58. OPLN earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 67/100 (B-).
AN
Buy63
out of 100
Grade: C+
OPLN
Strong Buy67
out of 100
Grade: B-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Intrinsic value data unavailable for AN.
Margin of Safety
-44.9%
Fair Value
$19.80
Current Price
$35.28
$15.48 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
Earnings expanding 113.3% YoY
Reasonable price relative to book value
15.1% revenue growth
Areas to Watch
2.8% margin — thin
Operating margin of 4.5%
Revenue declined 0.6%
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Distress zone — elevated risk
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 : OPLN
The strongest argument for OPLN centers on EPS Growth, Price/Book, Revenue Growth. Revenue growth of 15.1% demonstrates continued momentum. PEG of 1.22 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
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 : OPLN
The primary concerns for OPLN are Altman Z-Score.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AN profiles as a value stock while OPLN is a growth play — different risk/reward profiles.
OPLN carries more volatility with a beta of 1.26 — expect wider price swings.
OPLN is growing revenue faster at 15.1% — sustainability is the question.
OPLN generates stronger free cash flow (39M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
OPLN scores higher overall (67/100 vs 63/100) and 15.1% revenue growth. 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.
OPENLANE, Inc.
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · AUTO & TRUCK DEALERSHIPS · USA
OPENLANE, Inc., is a digital marketplace for used vehicles, which connects sellers and buyers in the United States, Canada, Continental Europe and the United Kingdom. The company is headquartered in Carmel, Indiana.
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