American Public Education Inc (APEI)vsLaureate Education Inc (LAUR)
APEI
American Public Education Inc
$44.94
+0.18%
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · Cap: $822.47M
LAUR
Laureate Education Inc
$36.13
+0.99%
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · Cap: $5.01B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Laureate Education Inc generates 174% more annual revenue ($1.83B vs $668.01M). LAUR leads profitability with a 17.6% profit margin vs 6.8%. APEI appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.98. LAUR earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 77/100 (B+).
APEI
Strong Buy66
out of 100
Grade: B-
LAUR
Strong Buy77
out of 100
Grade: B+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+41.0%
Fair Value
$73.27
Current Price
$44.94
$28.33 discount
Intrinsic value data unavailable for LAUR.
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Earnings expanding 129.3% YoY
Growing faster than its price suggests
Reasonable price relative to book value
Strong operational efficiency at 36.3%
Earnings expanding 50.8% YoY
Every $100 of equity generates 27 in profit
Attractively priced relative to earnings
17.5% revenue growth
Areas to Watch
Smaller company, higher risk/reward
6.8% margin — thin
No major concerns identified
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : APEI
The strongest argument for APEI centers on EPS Growth, PEG Ratio, Price/Book. PEG of 0.98 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : LAUR
The strongest argument for LAUR centers on Operating Margin, EPS Growth, Return on Equity. Profitability is solid with margins at 17.6% and operating margin at 36.3%. Revenue growth of 17.5% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : APEI
The primary concerns for APEI are Market Cap, Profit Margin.
Bear Case : LAUR
No major red flags identified for LAUR, but monitor valuation.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
APEI profiles as a value stock while LAUR is a growth play — different risk/reward profiles.
APEI carries more volatility with a beta of 1.39 — expect wider price swings.
LAUR is growing revenue faster at 17.5% — sustainability is the question.
LAUR generates stronger free cash flow (84M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
LAUR scores higher overall (77/100 vs 66/100), backed by strong 17.6% margins and 17.5% revenue growth. APEI offers better value entry with a 41.0% margin of safety. Both earn "Strong Buy" and "Strong 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.
American Public Education Inc
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · EDUCATION & TRAINING SERVICES · USA
American Public Education, Inc. offers postsecondary education online and on campus. The company is headquartered in Charles Town, West Virginia.
Laureate Education Inc
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · EDUCATION & TRAINING SERVICES · USA
Laureate Education, Inc. offers higher education programs and services to students through a network of universities and institutions of higher education. The company is headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland.
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