AstraZeneca PLC (AZN)vsBaxter International Inc (BAX)
AZN
AstraZeneca PLC
$185.48
-0.59%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $293.73B
BAX
Baxter International Inc
$25.74
-2.28%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $13.67B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
AstraZeneca PLC generates 437% more annual revenue ($62.38B vs $11.61B). AZN leads profitability with a 17.7% profit margin vs -6.2%. AZN appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.35. AZN earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 68/100 (B-).
AZN
Strong Buy68
out of 100
Grade: B-
BAX
Hold50
out of 100
Grade: D+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+4.3%
Fair Value
$197.94
Current Price
$185.48
$12.46 discount
Margin of Safety
+51.0%
Fair Value
$45.47
Current Price
$25.74
$19.73 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Every $100 of equity generates 21 in profit
Strong operational efficiency at 29.6%
Earnings expanding 23.5% YoY
Generating 4.0B in free cash flow
Reasonable price relative to book value
Earnings expanding 36.8% YoY
Areas to Watch
Moderate valuation
Distress zone — elevated risk
Grey zone — moderate risk
Elevated debt levels
Expensive relative to growth rate
ROE of -11.1% — below average capital efficiency
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : AZN
The strongest argument for AZN centers on Market Cap, Return on Equity, Operating Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 17.7% and operating margin at 29.6%. PEG of 1.35 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : BAX
The strongest argument for BAX centers on Price/Book, EPS Growth.
Bear Case : AZN
The primary concerns for AZN are P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score.
Bear Case : BAX
The primary concerns for BAX are Altman Z-Score, Debt/Equity, PEG Ratio.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AZN profiles as a mature stock while BAX is a turnaround play — different risk/reward profiles.
BAX carries more volatility with a beta of 0.67 — expect wider price swings.
AZN is growing revenue faster at 6.7% — sustainability is the question.
AZN generates stronger free cash flow (4.0B), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
AZN scores higher overall (68/100 vs 50/100), backed by strong 17.7% margins. BAX offers better value entry with a 51.0% margin of safety. Both earn "Strong Buy" and "Hold" ratings respectively — the choice depends on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.
This analysis is generated from publicly available financial data. Not financial advice.
AstraZeneca PLC
HEALTHCARE · DRUG MANUFACTURERS - GENERAL · USA
AstraZeneca PLC discovers, develops, manufactures and markets prescription drugs in the areas of oncology, cardiovascular, renal and metabolism, respiratory, infections, neuroscience and gastroenterology worldwide. The company is headquartered in Cambridge, the United Kingdom.
Baxter International Inc
HEALTHCARE · MEDICAL INSTRUMENTS & SUPPLIES · USA
Baxter International Inc. is an American multinational health care company with headquarters in Deerfield, Illinois. The company primarily focuses on products to treat hemophilia, kidney disease, immune disorders and other chronic and acute medical conditions.
Visit Website →Compare with Other DRUG MANUFACTURERS - GENERAL Stocks
Want to dig deeper into these stocks?