AstraZeneca PLC (AZN)vsCerus Corporation (CERS)
AZN
AstraZeneca PLC
$160.17
+2.23%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $252.33B
CERS
Cerus Corporation
$2.49
+1.22%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $534.04M
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
AstraZeneca PLC generates 27598% more annual revenue ($61.37B vs $221.55M). AZN leads profitability with a 17.0% profit margin vs -3.1%. AZN earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 60/100 (C+).
AZN
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C+
CERS
Avoid27
out of 100
Grade: F
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+18.4%
Fair Value
$196.10
Current Price
$160.17
$35.93 discount
Intrinsic value data unavailable for CERS.
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 23.5%
Generating 2.1B in free cash flow
No standout strengths identified
Areas to Watch
2.5% earnings growth
Distress zone — elevated risk
0.0% earnings growth
Smaller company, higher risk/reward
Elevated debt levels
ROE of -9.7% — 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 17.0% and operating margin at 23.5%. PEG of 1.28 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : CERS
CERS has a balanced fundamental profile.
Bear Case : AZN
The primary concerns for AZN are EPS Growth, Altman Z-Score.
Bear Case : CERS
The primary concerns for CERS are EPS Growth, Market Cap, Debt/Equity.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AZN profiles as a mature stock while CERS is a turnaround play — different risk/reward profiles.
CERS carries more volatility with a beta of 1.77 — expect wider price swings.
CERS is growing revenue faster at 9.5% — sustainability is the question.
AZN generates stronger free cash flow (2.1B), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
AZN scores higher overall (60/100 vs 27/100), backed by strong 17.0% margins. Both earn "Buy" and "Avoid" 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.
Cerus Corporation
HEALTHCARE · MEDICAL DEVICES · USA
Cerus Corporation, a biomedical products company, is focused on developing and commercializing the INTERCEPT Blood System to improve blood safety. The company is headquartered in Concord, California.
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