AstraZeneca PLC (AZN)vsCentene Corp (CNC)
AZN
AstraZeneca PLC
$173.30
-1.13%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $261.94B
CNC
Centene Corp
$61.82
-3.27%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $32.81B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Centene Corp generates 195% more annual revenue ($178.33B vs $60.44B). AZN leads profitability with a 17.2% profit margin vs -3.6%. CNC appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.28. AZN earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 64/100 (C+).
AZN
Buy64
out of 100
Grade: C+
CNC
Buy57
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+10.7%
Fair Value
$193.96
Current Price
$173.30
$20.66 discount
Margin of Safety
+84.8%
Fair Value
$265.88
Current Price
$61.82
$204.06 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 27.9%
Generating 2.1B in free cash flow
Reasonable price relative to book value
Generating 3.4B in free cash flow
Areas to Watch
Moderate valuation
Distress zone — elevated risk
ROE of -30.1% — below average capital efficiency
Currently unprofitable
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 17.2% and operating margin at 27.9%. Revenue growth of 12.5% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bull Case : CNC
The strongest argument for CNC centers on Price/Book, Free Cash Flow. PEG of 1.28 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : AZN
The primary concerns for AZN are P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score.
Bear Case : CNC
The primary concerns for CNC are Return on Equity, Profit Margin.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AZN profiles as a mature stock while CNC is a turnaround play — different risk/reward profiles.
CNC carries more volatility with a beta of 1.08 — expect wider price swings.
AZN is growing revenue faster at 12.5% — sustainability is the question.
CNC generates stronger free cash flow (3.4B), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
AZN scores higher overall (64/100 vs 57/100), backed by strong 17.2% margins and 12.5% revenue growth. CNC offers better value entry with a 84.8% margin of safety. Both earn "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.
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.
Centene Corp
HEALTHCARE · HEALTHCARE PLANS · USA
Centene Corporation is a large publicly traded company and a multi-line managed care enterprise that serves as a major intermediary for both government-sponsored and privately insured health care programs. It is a healthcare insurer that focuses on managed care for uninsured, underinsured, and low-income individuals.
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