American Express Company (AXP)vsPhilip Morris International Inc (PM)
AXP
American Express Company
$300.24
-0.58%
FINANCIAL SERVICES · Cap: $208.03B
PM
Philip Morris International Inc
$165.50
+0.99%
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · Cap: $255.09B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
American Express Company generates 65% more annual revenue ($66.97B vs $40.65B). PM leads profitability with a 27.9% profit margin vs 16.2%. AXP appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.52. PM earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 70/100 (B-).
AXP
Strong Buy66
out of 100
Grade: B-
PM
Strong Buy70
out of 100
Grade: B-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+41.4%
Fair Value
$512.74
Current Price
$300.24
$212.50 discount
Margin of Safety
+17.9%
Fair Value
$201.54
Current Price
$165.50
$36.04 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Every $100 of equity generates 34 in profit
Generating 2.3B in free cash flow
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Strong operational efficiency at 32.9%
Keeps 28 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Generating 4.3B in free cash flow
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Elevated debt levels
Distress zone — elevated risk
Expensive relative to growth rate
ROE of 0.0% — below average capital efficiency
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : AXP
The strongest argument for AXP centers on Market Cap, Return on Equity, Free Cash Flow. Profitability is solid with margins at 16.2% and operating margin at 17.5%. Revenue growth of 10.6% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bull Case : PM
The strongest argument for PM centers on Market Cap, Operating Margin, Profit Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 27.9% and operating margin at 32.9%.
Bear Case : AXP
The primary concerns for AXP are PEG Ratio, Debt/Equity, Altman Z-Score. Debt-to-equity of 1.73 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Bear Case : PM
The primary concerns for PM are PEG Ratio, Return on Equity.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AXP carries more volatility with a beta of 1.15 — expect wider price swings.
AXP is growing revenue faster at 10.6% — sustainability is the question.
PM generates stronger free cash flow (4.3B), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor CREDIT SERVICES industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
PM scores higher overall (70/100 vs 66/100), backed by strong 27.9% margins. AXP offers better value entry with a 41.4% 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 Express Company
FINANCIAL SERVICES · CREDIT SERVICES · USA
The American Express Company is a multinational financial services corporation headquartered at 200 Vesey Street in the Battery Park City neighborhood of Lower Manhattan in New York City.
Visit Website →Philip Morris International Inc
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · TOBACCO · USA
Philip Morris International Inc. (PMI) is a Swiss-American multinational cigarette and tobacco manufacturing company, with products sold in over 180 countries. The most recognized and best selling product of the company is Marlboro.
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