AstraZeneca PLC (AZN)vsGuardian Pharmacy Services, Inc. (GRDN)
AZN
AstraZeneca PLC
$187.37
+1.17%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $287.11B
GRDN
Guardian Pharmacy Services, Inc.
$37.10
-1.25%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $2.42B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
AstraZeneca PLC generates 3955% more annual revenue ($58.74B vs $1.45B). AZN leads profitability with a 17.4% profit margin vs 3.4%. AZN trades at a lower P/E of 27.9x. AZN earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 64/100 (C+).
AZN
Buy64
out of 100
Grade: C+
GRDN
Hold46
out of 100
Grade: D+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+4.1%
Fair Value
$214.51
Current Price
$187.37
$27.14 discount
Margin of Safety
+79.3%
Fair Value
$166.71
Current Price
$37.10
$129.61 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Earnings expanding 53.9% YoY
Every $100 of equity generates 23 in profit
Strong operational efficiency at 21.6%
Generating 1.4B in free cash flow
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Every $100 of equity generates 27 in profit
17.4% revenue growth
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Moderate valuation
4.1% revenue growth
Distress zone — elevated risk
Trading at 11.4x book value
0.0% earnings growth
3.4% margin — thin
Weak financial health signals
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : AZN
The strongest argument for AZN centers on Market Cap, EPS Growth, Return on Equity. Profitability is solid with margins at 17.4% and operating margin at 21.6%.
Bull Case : GRDN
The strongest argument for GRDN centers on Altman Z-Score, Return on Equity, Revenue Growth. Revenue growth of 17.4% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : AZN
The primary concerns for AZN are PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio, Revenue Growth.
Bear Case : GRDN
The primary concerns for GRDN are Price/Book, EPS Growth, Profit Margin. A P/E of 48.2x leaves little room for execution misses. Thin 3.4% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AZN profiles as a value stock while GRDN is a growth play — different risk/reward profiles.
GRDN is growing revenue faster at 17.4% — sustainability is the question.
AZN generates stronger free cash flow (1.4B), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor DRUG MANUFACTURERS - GENERAL industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
AZN scores higher overall (64/100 vs 46/100), backed by strong 17.4% margins. GRDN offers better value entry with a 79.3% margin of safety. Both earn "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.
Guardian Pharmacy Services, Inc.
HEALTHCARE · MEDICAL CARE FACILITIES · USA
Guardian Pharmacy Services, Inc. is a premier provider of specialized pharmacy solutions tailor-made for the long-term care sector, encompassing assisted living and skilled nursing facilities. The company distinguishes itself through a commitment to personalized medication management, rigorous standards of quality and compliance, and exceptional customer service. By leveraging state-of-the-art technology and extensive pharmaceutical expertise, Guardian enhances patient outcomes while optimizing workflows for healthcare partners. With a robust operational footprint across multiple states, the company is strategically positioned to meet the increasing demand for customized pharmacy services in a dynamic healthcare landscape.
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